bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative complications after pelvic lymphadenectomy for the surgical staging of endometrial cancer
Authors: Franchi Massimo , Ghezzi Fabio , Riva Cristina , Miglierina Massimiliano , Buttarelli Marco , Bolis Pierfrancesco
Published: August 2002

Objective

To assess whether pelvic lymphadenectomy at surgical staging for endometrial carcinoma is an independent risk factor for the occurrence of postoperative complications.

Methods

Women with uterine cancer who underwent radical abdominal hysterectomy type I or II of Piver–Rutledge with or without pelvic lymph nodes dissection were considered. The occurrence of intraoperative and early postoperative complications (deep vein thrombosis, lymphocysts, febrile morbidity, extraoperative site infections, wound dehiscence, rela‐parotomy, and death) was prospectively recorded. Non parametric tests, receiver characteristic curve analysis, and multiple logistic regressions were used for statistical purposes.

Results

Two hundred six subjects were enrolled, of whom 133 underwent pelvic lymphadenectomy. The rate of postoperative complications was 26.7% (55 of 206). Women with complications had a higher median (range) number of lymph nodes removed than those without complications (17 [3–62] versus 11 [1–74], P < .01). The performance of a type II hysterectomy (OR = 2.49, P < .05) and the removal of more than 14 lymph nodes (OR = 3.05, P < .005) were significantly associated with the occurrence of at least one complication. Multiple logistic regression revealed that, after adjustment for the type of surgery, the removal of more than 14 nodes was the only condition associated with postoperative complications (OR = 2.56, P < .01). The only variable significantly associated with the development of two postoperative complications was the removal of more than 19 nodes (OR = 9.7, P < .01).

Conclusions

The extension of retroperitoneal lymph nodes (more than 14) dissection is an independent risk factor for the occurrence of postoperative complications in patients undergoing surgical staging for endometrial carcinoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2001;78:232–240. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Small business— small minded? Training attitudes and needs of the tourism and hospitality industry
Authors: Becton Sue , Graetz Brian
Published: August 2002

The Australian tourism and hospitality industry consists of at least 80% small business operators scattered over a wide range of urban and rural environments, consequently it has not been easy for training providers to assess accurately the needs of the industry as a whole and provide specialised programmes. During 1996, Tourism Training Victoria conducted a survey of training needs of tourism and hospitality operators. Results indicate that there is a shortage of skilled staff and owner‐managers with little management training or qualifications, who nonetheless recognise their shortcomings and needs for further education and training, particularly in the marketing and business areas. Barriers to further training include the cost of training and inflexibility of hours and place of delivery. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advances into electronic publishing: engineering information and Elsevier Advanced Technology
Authors: Evans Paul M.
Published: August 2002

This paper examines the context to developments in electronic publishing as it affects business transformation within the science publisher, Elsevier Science, especially in relation to developing activities for technology professionals in industry. The key changes likely to affect such publishers in taking advantage of Web opportunities are discussed and then the business planning and implementation process for innovation units, focused mainly on engineers' needs, are described as a case study demonstrating how the larger trends in the publishing industry are changing directions in a specific organization. Finally the adoption of an innovation culture is seen to pave the way for development through action learning and increased involvement of the market in the future. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photodynamic therapy using Verteporfin (benzoporphyrin derivative monoacid ring A, BPD‐MA) and 630 nm laser light in canine esophagus*
Authors: Panjehpour Masoud , DeNovo Robert C. , Petersen Mark G. , Overholt Bergein F. , Bower Robert , Rubinchik Valery , Kelly Barbara
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Verteporfin is a new photosensitizer with short‐term skin photosensitivity. The objective of this preclinical study was to find the light dose that effectively ablates canine esophageal mucosa when delivered 30 minutes after Verteporfin injection.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Verteporfin was administered intravenously (0.75 mg/kg). 630 nm light from KTP/Dye laser was delivered using an esophageal Photodynamic therapy (PDT) balloon. In Phase I study, animals were treated 30 minutes after drug injection using 40, 60, and 80 J/cm to find the desired light dose. Using results from phase I and application of reciprocity principle (light dose vs. plasma concentration of drug), additional light doses were calculated for delivery at other times. In phase II, animals were treated at 15, 60, and 120 minutes, using the calculated light doses of 60, 145, and 200 J/cm, respectively. Animals were followed for 2 days to 4 weeks.

Results

In Phase I, 80 J/cm at 30 minutes induced total mucosal ablation. In Phase II, light doses of 60, 145, and 200 J/cm induced similar mucosal injuries when delivered at 15, 60, and 120 minutes, respectively.

Conclusions

Effective mucosal ablation in canine esophagus was achieved using Verteporfin and 630 nm light doses of 60, 80, 145, and 200 J/cm when delivered at 15, 30, 60, and 120 minutes after the drug injection, respectively. Lasers Surg. Med. 30:26–30, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Theramal, mechanical, optical, and morphologic changes in bovine nucleus pulposus induced by Nd:YAG (λ = 1.32 μm) laser irradiation
Authors: Choi Joon Y. , Tanenbaum B. Samuel , Milner Thomas E. , Dao Xavier V. , Nelson J. Stuart , Sobol Emil N. , Wong Brian J.F.
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

To examine the biophysical effects of photothermal heating on herniated intervertebral discs during laser decompression surgery.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Ex vivo bovine nucleus pulposus specimens were irradiated with a Nd: YAG laser (λ = 1.32 μm, 100 seconds exposure time, 9–31 W/cm2, 4.8 mm spot diameter), whereas changes in tissue thermal, mechanical, and optical properties were monitored by using, respectively, infrared radiometry, tissue tension measurements, and diffuse reflectance from a HeNe probe laser. Morphologic changes and mass reduction were monitored by recording shape changes on video and weighing specimens before and after laser exposure.

Results

At power densities below 20 W/cm2, evaporation of water and specimen volume reduction (shrinking) were consistently observed on video during irradiation. In contrast, above 20 W/cm2, vapor bubbles formed within the specimen matrix and subsequently ruptured (releasing heated vapors). When radiometric surface temperature approaches approximately 60 to 70°C (denaturation threshold for tissue), tissue tension begins to increase, which is consistent with observations of specimen length reduction. The onset of this change in tissue tension is also reflected in characteristic alterations in diffuse reflectance. With cessation of laser irradiation, a sustained increase in tissue tension is observed, which is consistent with changes in specimen length and volume. Higher laser power results in a faster heating rate and subsequently an accelerated tension change. Specimen mass reduction increased with irradiance from 19 to 72% of the initial mass for 9–31 W/cm2, respectively. Irradiated specimens did not return to their original shape after immersion in saline (48 hours) in contrast to air‐dried specimens (24 hours), which returned to their original shape and size.

Conclusion

These observations suggest that photothermal heating results in irreversible matrix alteration causing shape change and volume reduction (observed on video and evidenced by the increase in tissue tension) taking place at approximately 65°C. Inasmuch as high laser power results in vapor bubble formation and specimen tearing, the heating process must be controlled. Diffuse reflectance measurements provide a noncontact, highly sensitive means to monitor dynamically changes in tension of nucleus purposus. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:248–254, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
One hundred consecutive treatments with Holmium: YAG laser for pulmonary bullae: Especially in conjunction with gelatin‐resorcinol formaldehyde‐glutaraldehyde glue adhesion
Authors: Kaseda Shizuka , Aoki Teruhiro , Hangai Nanae , Shimizu Kunihiko , Kiguchi Hideko
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

We have widely used a Ho:YAG laser to treat bullae thoracoscopically.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Bullae with broad necks were treated with a Ho:YAG laser thoracoscopically. Because one patient relapsed after application of fibrin glue in the early period, a DEXON™ (polyglycolic acid) mesh patch soaked in fibrin glue was used through a 2‐cm opening in the subsequent cases. Lastly, gelatin‐resorcinol formaldehyde‐glutaraldehyde (GRFG) glue was applied through a 5‐mm opening instead of a DEXON™ mesh after coagulation.

Results

In the 38 patients patched with DEXON™ mesh soaked in fibrin glue and 56 patched with GRFG glue after coagulation, none relapsed.

Conclusion

Combined uses of fibrin glue plus DEXON™ mesh or GRFG glue were effective when bullae were treated with the Ho:YAG laser. However, the wound was smaller and more cosmetic in the GRFG glue group than in the DEXON™ mesh plus fibrin glue group. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:255–258, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Toxicity of photodynamic therapy after combined external beam radiotherapy and intraluminal brachytherapy for carcinoma of the upper aerodigestive tract
Authors: Sanfilippo Nicholas J. , Hsi Alex , DeNittis Albert S. , Ginsberg Gregory G. , Kochman Michael L. , Friedberg Joseph S. , Hahn Stephen M.
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

To describe the toxicity of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in patients with carcinoma of the upper aerodigestive tract who received prior treatment with external beam irradiation and intraluminal brachytherapy (IB).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Hospital records of PDT patients were reviewed. Three patients who received prior treatment with external beam irradiation and IB were identified. Two patients had esophageal carcinoma treated with combined chemotherapy and external beam irradiation (55.8 and 50.4 Gy) followed by IB (12 Gy and 35 Gy at 1 cm). These patients then received PDT for treatment of recurrence (2 mg/kg Photofrin injection and 2 light applications: 630 nm, 150–200 J/cm, 200–400 mW/cm). One patient had non‐small cell lung cancer treated with external beam irradiation (60 Gy) followed by IB (36.1 Gy at 1 cm) and then received PDT for recurrence (1 mg/kg Photofrin injection and one light application: 630 nm, 150 J/cm, 200 mW/cm).

Results

One patient with esophagus cancer had formation of a tracheoesophageal fistula, which required stent placement. The other esophageal cancer patient developed quadriplegia due to an epidural abscess arising from a fistula with the diseased portion of the esophagus. The lung cancer patient had massive hemoptysis after the procedure and died 2 days later. Autopsy showed necrotizing arteritis of the right pulmonary artery.

Conclusion

Patients with upper aerodigestive tract carcinoma who have received treatment with both external beam irradiation and IB seem to be at higher risk for complications when treated with PDT. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:278–281, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treating REM syndrome with the pulsed dye laser
Authors: Greve Baerbel , Raulin Christian
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

REM syndrome (reticular erythematous mucinosis) is a benign but bothersome skin disease that common occurs in middle age and among women. Local and systemic treatment measures are often associated with a high rate of side effects and relapses are common. We evaluated the pulsed dye laser as an alternative method because of its good efficacy in vascular skin diseases.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

We treated two female patients with REM syndrome using the pulsed dye laser.

Results

In both patients the erythematous skin changes were almost completely removed after five and three laser sessions, respectively. Other than transient hypopigmentation, no side effects occurred. In one case there is still no evidence of recurrence 6 years after a trial treatment was conducted. In the same patient, clinical success was histologically confirmed.

Conclusions

This is the first report on the successful treatment of REM syndrome of two female patients with the pulsed dye laser. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:248–251, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Buying group choice: The effect of individual group member's prior decision frame
Authors: Stoddard James E. , Fern Edward F.
Published: August 2002

This article reports the results from two experiments that tested decision‐framing effects on choices made by simulated organizational buying groups. The first experiment showed that the choice of suppliers by buying groups varied depending on the nature of the decision frame. Moreover, group influence seemed to intensify the effect of the loss decision frame. The second experiment tested whether mixed‐frame groups used a lexicographic strategy to make multidimensional supplier choice decisions. Buying groups faced with a choice between two suppliers that differed with respect to price and quality chose the supplier that was best on the most important attribute—quality. Also, the decision frame associated with the important attribute affected the buying groups' choices. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
How buyers frame problems: Revisited
Authors: Wilson Elizabeth J. , McMurrian Robert C. , Woodside Arch G.
Published: August 2002

This article investigates the following propositions: a useful approach for building an organizational‐buying–behavior taxonomy might begin with classifying how buyers frame purchasing problems followed by how such frames affect subsequent perceptions and actions in the decision process. Unlike previous taxonomies of buying situations, direct questioning of organizational buyers is used to learn: (1) whether or not they identify different categories of buying problems; (2) if they do, what dimensions they use when framing buying problems; and (3) how do such frames influence their choices of value‐added service alternatives offered by suppliers. To test the propositions empirically, supplier choices are modeled with the use of buying‐decision exercises. A key result of this study is that the buyers’ framing of problems affects their preferences for vendor designs of value‐added customer services. Most likely, the framing of buying problems by organizational buyers is layered and more complex than related taxonomies found in the marketing literature. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Consumer ethnocentrism when foreign products are better
Authors: Supphellen Magne , Rittenburg Terri L.
Published: August 2002

In recent years, there has been a great deal of research exploring the concept of consumer ethnocentrism, although little has been done in Eastern Bloc countries. In these countries, foreign brands are often clearly superior to domestic alternatives. This study applied the CETSCALE in a survey of 218 Polish consumers with respect to attitudes and beliefs for one domestic and two foreign gas station brands. The findings suggest that, in a situation where foreign brands are superior to domestic ones, consumer ethnocentrism is displayed in more positive perceptions of the domestic brand, with little or no effect on perceptions of foreign brands. Moreover, the effect of consumer ethnocentrism on evaluations of different types of product qualities (search vs. experience) is explored. The results support the prediction that consumer ethnocentrism has greater impact on evaluations of experience qualities than on search qualities. Managerial implications and future research directions are suggested. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Protein kinase C‐β, fibronectin, α5β1‐integrin, and tumor necrosis factor‐α are required for phorbol diester–induced apoptosis in human myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Laouar Amale , Glesne David , Huberman Eliezer
Published: August 2002

The human myeloid HL‐60 cell line and its cell variant HL‐525 were used to study signaling events leading to apoptosis induction by phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA), an activator of protein kinase C (PKC) enzymes. Unlike parental cells, HL‐525 cells are PKC‐β deficient and resistant to PMA‐induced apoptosis. These cells regain susceptibility to apoptosis induction after transfection with a PKC‐β expression vector. By using this vector and specific neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), it was established that PMA‐induced apoptosis also called for an interaction between cell‐surface α5β1‐integrin and its deposited ligand fibronectin (FN), which is downstream of PKC‐β activation. Experiments with mAbs, the PKC‐β vector, and exogenous FN revealed that the next step entailed an interaction between secreted tumor necrosis factor‐α and its type I receptor. By using a sphingomyelinase inhibitor, it was concluded that the subsequent step involved ceramide production. Moreover, a permeable ceramide was effective in inducing apoptosis in both HL‐60 and HL‐525 cells, and this induction was caspase‐1 and/or ‐4 dependent because an inhibitor of these caspases abrogated the induced apoptosis. Based on these and related differentiation studies, we conclude that the above signaling events, the early ones in particular, are shared with PMA‐induced macrophage differentiation in the HL‐60 cells. It is likely that once these cells acquire their macrophage phenotype and perform their tasks, they become superfluous and are eliminated from the body by a self‐triggered apoptotic process that involves our proposed signaling scheme. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Restoration of wild‐type conformation and activity of a temperature‐sensitive mutant of p53 (p53V272M) by the cytoprotective aminothiol WR1065 in the esophageal cancer cell line TE‐1
Authors: North Sophie , Pluquet Olivier , Maurici Daniela , El Ghissassi Fatiha , Hainaut Pierre
Published: August 2002

The aminothiol WR1065, the active metabolite of the cytoprotector amifostine, exerts its antimutagenic effects through free‐radical scavenging and other unknown mechanisms. In an earlier report, we showed that WR1065 activates wild‐type p53 in MCF‐7 cells, leading to p53‐dependent arrest in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. To determine whether WR1065 activates p53 by modulating protein conformation, we analyzed its effects on p53 conformation and activity in the esophageal cancer cell line TE‐1. This cell line contains a mutation in codon 272 of p53 (p53V272M, with methionine instead of a valine), conferring temperature‐sensitive properties to the p53 protein. At the nonpermissive temperature (37°C), p53V272M adopts the mutant p53 conformation (nonreactive with the antibody PAb1620), does not bind specifically to DNA, and is not activated in response to DNA‐damaging treatment. However, treatment with 0.5–4 mM WR1065 partially restored wild‐type conformation at 37°C, stimulated DNA binding activity, and increased the expression of p53 target genes WAF‐1, GADD45, and MDM2, leading to cell‐cycle arrest in G1. These results suggest that WR1065 activates p53 through a mechanism distinct from DNA‐damage signaling, which involves modulation of p53 protein conformation. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of a novel gene, STAG1/PMEPA1, upregulated in renal cell carcinoma and other solid tumors
Authors: Rae Fiona K. , Hooper John D. , Nicol David L. , Clements Judith A.
Published: August 2002

Using differential display–polymerase chain reaction, we identified a novel gene sequence, designated solid tumor–associated gene 1 (STAG1), that is upregulated in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The full‐length cDNA (4839 bp) encompassed the recently reported androgen‐regulated prostatic cDNA PMEPA1, and so we refer to this gene as STAG1/PMEPA1. Two STAG1/PMEPA1 mRNA transcripts of approximately 2.7 and 5 kb, with identical coding regions but variant 3′ untranslated regions, were predominantly expressed in normal prostate tissue and at lower levels in the ovary. The expression of this gene was upregulated in 87% of RCC samples and also was upregulated in stomach and rectal adenocarcinomas. In contrast, STAG1/PMEPA1 expression was barely detectable in leukemia and lymphoma samples. Analysis of expressed sequence tag databases showed that STAG1/PMEPA1 also was expressed in pancreatic, endometrial, and prostatic adenocarcinomas. The STAG1/PMEPA1 cDNA encodes a 287‐amino‐acid protein containing a putative transmembrane domain and motifs that suggest that it may bind src homology 3– and tryptophan tryptophan domain–containing proteins. This protein shows 67% identity to the protein encoded by the chromosome 18 open reading frame 1 gene. Translation of STAG1/PMEPA1 mRNA in vitro showed two products of 36 and 39 kDa, respectively, suggesting that translation may initiate at more than one site. Comparison to genomic clones showed that STAG1/PMEPA1 was located on chromosome 20q13 between microsatellite markers D20S183 and D20S173 and spanned four exons and three introns. The upregulation of this gene in several solid tumors indicated that it may play an important role in tumorigenesis.©2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular mechanisms of apoptosis induced by magnolol in colon and liver cancer cells
Authors: Lin Shyr‐Yi , Chang Yu‐Tza , Liu Jean‐Dean , Yu Chung‐Hsun , Ho Yuan‐Soon , Lee Yi‐Hsuan , Lee Wen‐Sen
Published: August 2002

Magnolol has been reported to have anticancer activity. In this study we found that treatment with 100 μm magnolol induced apoptosis in cultured human hepatoma (Hep G2) and colon cancer (COLO 205) cell lines but not in human untransformed gingival fibroblasts and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Our investigation of apoptosis in Hep G2 cells showed a sequence of associated intracellular events that included (a) increased cytosolic free Ca2+; (b) increased translocation of cytochrome c (Cyto c) from mitochondria to cytosol; (c) activation of caspase 3, caspase 8, and caspase 9; and (d) downregulation of bcl‐2 protein. Pretreatment of the cells with the phospholipase C inhibitor 1‐[6‐[[(17β)‐3‐methoxyestra‐1,3,5(10)‐trien‐17‐yl]amino]hexyl]‐1 H‐pyrrole‐2,5‐dione (U73122) or the intracellular chelator of Ca2+ 1,2‐bis(2‐aminophenoxy)ethane‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetraacetic acid acetoxymethyl ester (BAPTA/AM) inhibited the subsequent magnolol augmentation of [Ca2+]i and also the activation of caspase‐8 and caspase‐9, so that the occurrence of apoptosis in those cells was greatly reduced. Pretreatment of the cells with ZB4 (which disrupts the Fas response mechanism) also decreased the subsequent magnolol‐induced caspase‐8 activation and reduced the occurrence of apoptosis. We interpreted these findings to indicate that the above‐listed sequence of intracellular events led to the apoptosis seen in Hep G2 cells and that [Ca2+]i, Cyto c, and Fas function as intracellular signals to coordinate those events. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Indifference sets of reference points in multi‐objective integer linear programming
Authors: Alves Maria João , Clímaco João
Published: August 2002

Reference point approaches for multi‐objective problems rely on the definition of an achievement scalarizing function that projects reference points onto the non‐dominated solution set. In this paper, we investigate the behaviour of reference points using a Tchebycheff metric‐based scalarizing function in multi‐objective pure integer linear programming (MOILP). Since the non‐dominated solutions are discrete in MOILP, there are multiple reference points that lead to the same solution, i.e. there are indifference sets on the reference point space. We investigate some properties of the reference points in MOILP and also the graphical representation of indifference sets for tri‐objective problems. We further investigate properties of the reference points when additional limitations on the objective function values are introduced. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of ropivacaine and its metabolites in human plasma using solid phase microextraction and GC‐NPD/GC‐MS
Authors: Abdel‐Rehim Mohamed , Andersson Mikael , Portelius Erik , Norsten‐Höög Carina , Blomberg Lars G.
Published: August 2002

The performance of solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) in combination with capillary gas chromatography (CGC) to quantify ropivacaine and its metabolites in human plasma was investigated. The analysis was performed using either a nitrogen phosphorus detector (NPD) or a mass‐spectrometric detector. For extraction, Carbowax/divinylbenzene, polyacrylate and polydimethylsiloxane fibers were tested. Absorption and desorption times were studied for all analytes separately. The Carbowax/divinylbenzene fiber gave the highest recovery in plasma samples as compared to the other fibers. The effects of temperature, addition of salt, and agitation of the sample were studied. The validation of the method showed that the chromatographic selectivity was satisfactory and all metabolites were well separated. SPME gave higher deviation as compared to published data for solid‐phase and liquid‐liquid extraction as sample preparation methods but the acceptance criteria for the study validation were well in line with the international criteria. The major disadvantage of SPME in quantitative bioanalysis is that the fiber does not withstand a complete run (standards+blanks+QC samples+patient samples). Also, the quality of fiber and the fiber length can differ from batch to batch. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 13: 313–321, 2001
Corporate criminal law and organization incentives: a managerial perspective
Authors: Garoupa Nuno
Published: August 2002

Corporate criminal liability puts a serious challenge to the economic theory of enforcement. Are corporate crimes different from other crimes? Are these crimes best deterred by punishing individuals, punishing corporations, or both? What is optimal structure of sanctions? Should corporate liability be criminal or civil? This paper has two major contributions to the literature. First, it provides a common analytical framework to most results presented and largely discussed in the field. Second, by making use of the framework, we provide new insights into how corporations should be punished for the offenses committed by their employees. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessing self‐reported expenditures on gambling
Authors: Volberg Rachel A. , Gerstein Dean R. , Christiansen Eugene M. , Baldridge John
Published: August 2002

Estimates of the proportion of gambling revenues derived from problem gamblers represent an important element in the rational calculus of public gambling policy. However, a critical concern in calculating such estimates is the accuracy of self‐reported expenditure data. In this paper, we review an emerging literature on estimating the proportion of expenditures from problem gamblers for different types of gambling, with a focus on the relationship between self‐reported estimates and known spending. We then examine recent national survey data pertaining to this matter. After detailing several of the challenges in the effort to assess self‐reported expenditures on different types of gambling, we recommend some methodological improvements that can be made in response to these problems. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of immobility on sensory and motor symptoms of restless legs syndrome
Authors: Michaud Martin , Lavigne Gilles , Desautels Alex , Poirier Gaétan , Montplaisir Jacques
Published: August 2002

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is defined by an irresistible need to move associated with leg paresthesia. Two additional features are essential for diagnosis: (1) worsening of symptoms at rest with temporary relief by activity, and (2) worsening of symptoms during the evening and/or during the night. The suggested immobilization test (SIT) has been developed to evaluate the presence of these criteria. This test quantifies leg movements and leg discomfort during a 1‐hour period of immobility prior to bedtime. We used the SIT to evaluate the effects of immobility on leg discomfort and leg movements experienced by 19 patients with RLS and 19 control subjects. Results show that immobility significantly worsens both leg discomfort and periodic leg movements (PLM) in patients with RLS but not in controls. Patients with RLS showed a higher leg discomfort score (32.6 ± 15.1 mm vs. 5.7 ± 7.9 mm; P < 0.00001), a greater maximum leg discomfort value (63.4 ± 27.4 mm vs. 13.7 ± 23.0 mm; P < 0.00001) and a greater PLM index (88.4 ± 62.6 vs. 10.4 ± 20.6; P < 0.00004) than control subjects. These results further validate the use of the SIT as a diagnostic and research tool for RLS and confirm the contention of the International RLS study group that RLS symptoms worsen at rest. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Perceived stigma in Spasmoic Torticollis
Authors: Papathanasiou Ilias , MacDonald Lea , Whurr Renata , Jahanshahi Marjan
Published: August 2002

Little is known about the “stigmatizing” effects of Spasmodic Torticollis—a condition that produces physical disfigurement. This is important in understanding the social dimensions of this disorder. This study examined the presence, the dimensions, and the degree of perceived stigma in patients with Spasmodic Torticollis. The study was completed in two stages. In the first stage, ten patients were interviewed to identify the effects of their condition on their social interactions. In the second stage, a self‐rating measure of stigma and questions about the impact of the condition on the patients' lives were devised. Perceived stigma was defined as avoidance of others, avoidance by others, self‐consciousness, feeling unattractive, feeling apologetic, and feeling different from others. The questionnaires were sent to one hundred patients. The majority of the patients perceived “some” or “severe” stigma. Stigma was found to affect the patients' social, private, and working lives. It is suggested that stigma in Spasmodic Torticollis needs to be considered as a parameter relevant to the clinical management of these patients. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Association of REM sleep behavior disorder and neurodegenerative disease may reflect an underlying synucleinopathy
Authors: Boeve Bradley F. , Silber Michael H. , Ferman Tanis J. , Lucas John A. , Parisi Joseph E.
Published: August 2002

Our objective was to examine whether rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder occurs in disproportionally greater frequency in multiple system atrophy (MSA), Parkinson's disease (PD), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), collectively known as the synucleinopathies, compared to other nonsynucleinopathy neurodegenerative disorders.

In study 1, we reviewed the clinical records of 398 consecutive patients evaluated at Mayo Clinic Rochester for parkinsonism and/or cognitive impairment. The frequency of suspected and polysomnogram (PSG)‐confirmed REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) among subjects with the synucleinopathies MSA, PD, or DLB was compared to the frequency among subjects with the nonsynucleinopathies Alzheimer's disease (AD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), primary progressive aphasia (PPA), and posterior cortical atrophy (PCA). In study 2, we reviewed the clinical records of 360 consecutive patients evaluated at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville for parkinsonism and/or cognitive impairment. The frequency of probable RBD among patients with PD and DLB was compared to the frequency among patients with AD and MCI. In study 3, we reviewed the brain biopsy or postmortem autopsy diagnoses of 23 Mayo Clinic Rochester patients who had been clinically examined for possible RBD and a neurodegenerative disorder.

In study 1, patients with MSA, PD, or DLB were more likely to have probable and PSG‐confirmed RBD compared to subjects with the nonsynucleinopathies (probable RBD 77/120=64% vs. 7/278=3%, p < 0.01; PSG‐confirmed RBD 47/120=39% vs. 1/278=0%, p < 0.01). In study 2, patients with PD and DLB were more likely to have probable RBD compared to those with AD and MCI (56% vs. 2%, p < 0.01). In study 3, of the 23 autopsied patients who had been questioned about possible RBD, 10 were clinically diagnosed with RBD. The neuropathologic diagnoses in these 10 included Lewy body disease in nine, and MSA in one. Of the other 13 cases, 12 did not have a history suggesting RBD, and the one case who did had normal electromyographic atonia during REM sleep on PSG and autopsy findings of PSP. Only one of these 13 had a synucleinopathy. The positive predictive values for RBD indicating a synucleinopathy for studies 1–3 were 91.7%, 94.3%, and 100.0%, respectively.

Clinically suspected and PSG‐proven RBD occurs with disproportionally greater frequency in MSA, PD, and DLB compared to other neurodegenerative disorders. In the setting of degenerative dementia and/or parkinsonism, we hypothesize that RBD is a manifestation of an evolving synucleinopathy. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Novel observations with FDOPA‐PET imaging after early nigrostriatal damage
Authors: Yee R.E. , Irwin I. , Milonas C. , Stout D.B. , Huang S‐C. , Shoghi‐Jadid K. , Satyamurthy N. , Delanney L.E. , Togasaki D.M. , Farahani K.F. , Delfani K. , Janson A.M. , Phelps M.E. , Langston J.W. , Barrio J.R.
Published: August 2002

Striatal 6‐[18F]fluoro‐L‐DOPA (FDOPA) kinetic rate constants were measured by positron emission tomography (PET) in 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐treated squirrel monkeys. After scanning, stereological counts of dopaminergic neurons were done in substantia nigra, and dopamine (DA) and metabolite concentrations were determined in the caudate, putamen, and substantia nigra. Graded doses of MPTP produced animals with mild to moderate reductions (10–35%) in dopaminergic neurons, where the percent of cell loss was proportional to the amount of MPTP given. Striatal DA and metabolite concentrations were relatively unchanged in animals given 1.0 and 1.5 mg/kg of MPTP, but were significantly reduced after 2.0 mg/kg of MPTP. All animals injected with a single dose of MPTP showed no overt signs of parkinsonism. In contrast, DA and metabolite concentrations in the substantia nigra were significantly reduced for all MPTP‐treated animals. Reduction of dopaminergic indices in the substantia nigra did not parallel reductions in the striatum, indicating differential sensitivity of the nigrostriatal pathway to the neurotoxic effects of MPTP. The percent change in FDOPA uptake (Ki) and decarboyxlation (k3) after MPTP showed significant positive correlations to striatal DA levels, but not to the number of dopaminergic neurons. This suggests that FDOPA is a good index of striatal DA levels. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Riluzole therapy in cervical dystonia
Authors: Müller Jörg , Wenning Gregor K. , Wissel Jörg , Baldauf Angelika , Seppi Klaus , Brenneis Christian , Poewe Werner
Published: August 2002

We conducted a 6‐week open‐label pilot study with blinded video rating of riluzole (50 mg twice a day) in six patients with cervical dystonia (CD) refractory to botulinum toxin A and oral pharmacological treatment. The Tsui rating scale served as primary efficacy measure and improved significantly under riluzole (P = 0.002). In three of six patients, the Tsui score improved by more than 30% with a greater 50% reduction in the head tremor/jerk subscore of the Tsui scale. These data suggest that riluzole may be helpful in a subgroup of patients with disabling CD refractory to other therapies. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging during deep brain stimulation: A pilot study in four patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Jech Robert , Urgošík Dušan , Tintěra Jaroslav , Nebuželský Antonín , Krásenský Jan , Liščák Roman , Roth Jan , Růžička Evžen
Published: August 2002

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was performed in patients with Parkinson's disease during deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (three patients) and during deep brain stimulation of the ventral intermedius nucleus of the thalamus (one patient). All showed an increase in blood oxygenation level‐dependent signal in the subcortical regions ipsilateral to the stimulated nucleus. This effect cannot be simply explained by a mechanism of depolarization blockade; rather, it is caused by overstimulation of the target nucleus, resulting in the suppression of its spontaneous activity. We confirm that fMRI during deep brain stimulation is a safe method with considerable potential for elucidating the functional connectivity of the stimulated nuclei. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Chemical genomics: Functional analysis of orphan nuclear receptors in the regulation of bile acid metabolism
Authors: Willson Timothy M. , Jones Stacey A. , Moore John T. , Kliewer Steven A.
Published: August 2002

Chemical genomics is the name we have given to the analysis of gene function through use of small molecule chemical tools. Orphan nuclear receptors are ideally suited to this technique of functional analysis, since their activity as transcription factors is regulated by small hydrophobic ligands. GW4064 is a potent and selective nonsteroidal ligand for the nuclear bile acid receptor FXR (NR1H4). Using GW4064 as a chemical tool, we have identified genes regulated by FXR in the liver, including those involved in bile acid synthesis and transport. We have also discovered that PXR (NR1I2) is a lithocholic acid receptor that controls the biosynthesis and metabolism of bile acids. Together FXR and PXR cooperate to control biliary and urinary bile acid excretion. These functions suggest that potent PXR and FXR ligands may offer a new approach to the treatment of cholestatic liver disease. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Med Res Rev, 21, No. 6, 513–522, 2001
Lymphedema and microsurgery
Authors: Campisi C. , Boccardo F.
Published: August 2002

Lymphedema is often diagnosed by its characteristic clinical presentation. In some cases, however, instrumental investigations are necessary to establish the diagnosis, particularly in early stages of the disease. One of the primary problems for microsurgery in treating lymphedema consists of the discrepancy between the excellent technical possibilities and the insufficient results in reduction of lymphedematous tissue fibrosis and sclerosis. Long‐term results indicate that microsurgical operations have a valuable place in the treatment of obstructive lymphedema (primary or secondary) and should be the treatment of choice in these patients. Improved results can be expected with earlier microsurgical operations because patients referred earlier usually have less lymphatic disruption and fibrotic tissue. Advanced diagnostic methods and improvements in operation techniques have modified indications for surgical therapy of lymphedema. This article systematically reviews the published literature on the microsurgical treatment of lymphedema to the present. © 2002 Wiley Liss, Inc. MICROSURGERY 22:74–80 2002
Restoration of fertility in oophorectomized rats after tubo‐ovarian transplantation
Authors: Wang Xiang , Bilolo Kupa K. , Qi Shijie , Xu Dasheng , Jiang Wenlei , Vu Minh Diem , Chen Huifang
Published: August 2002

Improved microsurgical techniques for en bloc vascularized adnexal isograft in the rat is described. The graft of the right ovary together with its fallopian tube and upper third of uterus was transplanted orthotopically with end‐to‐side anastomoses between the donor aortic segment and recipient aorta and between the donor vena cava segment and recipient inferior vena cava, with end‐to‐end anastomosis of the donor and recipient uterus in a syngeneic, bilaterally oophorectomized rat. All transplantations were successful in terms of immediate vascular patency rate (10/10, 100%). Evidence of resumed ovarian function was obtained in 9 out of 10 rats (9/10, 90.0%) by histological demonstration of the vaginal smear, in which pregnancies were achieved in six rats (6/10, 60.0%) and six litters of healthy offspring were delivered 9 weeks later after transplantation. These results suggest that microsurgical ovarian transplantation provide a new and potential experimental model for the study of fertility restoration in humans. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MICROSURGERY 22:30–33 2002 DOI 10.1002/micr.22006
Long‐time convergence of solutions to a phase‐field system
Authors: Aizicovici Sergiu , Feireisl Eduard , Issard‐Roch Françoise
Published: August 2002

We prove that any global bounded solution of a phase field model tends to a single equilibrium state for large times though the set of equilibria may contain a nontrivial continuum of stationary states. The problem has a partial variational structure, specifically, only the elliptic part of the first equation represents an Euler–Lagrange equation while the second does not. This requires some modifications in comparison with standard methods used to attack this kind of problems. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Single‐phase flow in composite poroelastic media
Authors: Showalter R. E. , Momken Bahareh
Published: August 2002

The mathematical formulation and analysis of the Barenblatt–Biot model of elastic deformation and laminar flow in a heterogeneous porous medium is discussed. This describes consolidation processes in a fluid‐saturated double‐diffusion model of fractured rock. The model includes various degenerate cases, such as incompressible constituents or totally fissured components, and it is extended to include boundary conditions arising from partially exposed pores. The quasi‐static initial–boundary problem is shown to have a unique weak solution, and this solution is strong when the data are smoother. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reflection model for calculation of the impulse response on IR‐wireless indoor channels using ray‐tracing algorithm
Authors: Rodríguez Pérez Silvestre , Pérez Jiménez Rafael , López Hernández Francisco J. , González Hernández Oswaldo B. , Ayala Alfonso Alejandro J.
Published: August 2002

This paper presents a simulation tool for the fast calculation of the impulse response on infrared (IR) wireless indoor channels. We used Phong's model to approximate the reflection pattern of the indoor surfaces upon which a Monte Carlo ray‐tracing method allows us to evaluate the impulse response. We also present computer simulation results showing that the use of Phong's model can lead to differences with respect to Lambert's model in the evaluation of the impulse response when surfaces present a high specular component. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 32: 296–300, 2002.
Multipole theory analysis of axisymmetric modes in rotationally symmetric cavities
Authors: Zheng Qinhong , Yi Jidong , Zeng Hua , Xie Fuyao
Published: August 2002

A new approach, the multipole theory (MT) method, is described for the computation of axisymmetric modes (TE0 and TM0 modes) in rotationally symmetric cavities. The MT formulation of the eigenvalue problem related to the resonant frequencies is derived. Representative computational examples, including dual‐mode conductor‐loaded cavity filters and a cavity loaded with an inner conductor of complex shape, are given to validate the theory and to demonstrate the degree of its efficiency. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 29: 412–415, 2001.
A new transmission‐line model based on LMIM for order reduction of high‐speed IC interconnect analysis
Authors: Li Hong‐Ru , Li Zheng‐Fan
Published: August 2002

A novel transmission‐line model of high‐speed IC interconnects is presented based on the linear multistep integral method (LMIM), which has the same form as the RLC circuit equation. Using this method, one can expediently analyze the time response of interconnection networks by the order‐reduction algorithm, keeping higher accuracy and efficiency. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 29: 436–438, 2001.
Interpolation of translation matrix in MLFMA
Authors: Song Jiming , Chew Weng Cho
Published: August 2002

The translation matrix for the multilevel fast multipole algorithm (MLFMA) in an FISC (fast Illinois solver code) is calculated directly, and the complexity is O(N3/2), where N is the number of unknowns. For a problem with a small electrical size, the CPU time for calculating the translation matrix can be negligible. But for large problems, the calculation time increases significantly. In this paper, we use interpolation to calculate the translation matrix, and the complexity is reduced to O(N). Different interpolation techniques are tested, and it is found that the Lagrange polynomial interpolation with high sampling rates is the best. The saving factor is 10 for the VFY218 at 4 GHz. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 30: 109–114, 2001.
Modeling propagation for high‐power cylindrical microwave applicators
Authors: Stuerga D. , Calmels A. , Pribetich P.
Published: August 2002

In this letter, the dispersion characteristics and energy configurations of a cylindrical partially filled waveguide or lossy multilayered rod shielded by a metallic enclosure are presented for several modes. These parameters are obtained by a numerical simulation based on the residues theory. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 30: 192–195, 2001.
New design scheme for multiple‐pump Raman fiber amplifiers using a simulated annealing algorithm
Authors: Yan Minhui , Chen Jianping , Jiang Wenning , Li Jianlang , Chen Junfeng , Li Xin
Published: August 2002

A simulated annealing algorithm is adopted to design multiple‐pump Raman fiber amplifiers. A demonstration of the optical fiber Raman amplifier using five laser diode pumps with different wavelengths and powers is presented. The automatic configuration of the pump gives an amplification bandwidth of more than 50 nm (64 signal channels), with a fluctuation of less than 1.8 dB. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 30: 434–436, 2001.
Suppression of interactions between two solitons propagating in optical fiber in the presence of randomly varying birefringence
Authors: Li Hong , Wang D. N.
Published: August 2002

In fiber with randomly varying birefringence, the interactions between solitons in the same polarization channel and in two orthogonal polarization channels are investigated by the use of numerical simulations. The results obtained show that the interaction between solitons in the same polarization channel is weaker than that of solitons in two orthogonal polarization channels. The strong interaction leads to soliton splitting and soliton propagation instability, and the randomly varying birefringence enhances the interaction. A nonlinear gain combined with the filter can be used to effectively suppress the interactions and stabilize the soliton propagation. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 31: 50–53, 2001.