bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ΔNp63 Overexpression, Alone and in Combination with Other Biomarkers, Predicts the Development of Oral Cancer in Patients with Leukoplakia
Authors: Saintigny Pierre , El-Naggar Adel K. , Papadimitrakopoulou Vali , Ren Hening , Fan You-Hong , Feng Lei , Lee J. Jack , Kim Edward S. , Hong Waun Ki , Lippman Scott M. , Mao Li
Published: September 2009

Purpose: The risk of malignant transformation of oral preneoplastic lesion (OPL) is difficult to assess. ΔNp63 is an early oncoprotein associated with mucosal tumorigenesis. The purpose of this study was to assess ΔNp63 expression in OPL and its role as a marker of oral cancer risk.

Experimental Design: ΔNp63 expression was determined using immunohistochemistry in 152 OPL patients included in a clinical trial comparing retinyl palmitate alone or plus β-carotene with low-dose 13-cis-retinoic acid. The associations between ΔNp63 expression as well as ΔNp63 expression with other potential risk factors for oral cancer development were analyzed.

Results: ΔNp63 expression was positive in 41 (27%) patients, clusters of intraepithelial inflammatory cells (EIC) were noted in 37 (26%) patients, and podoplanin (previously reported) was positive in 56 (37%) patients. Significantly more patients whose lesions were ΔNp63 positive or exhibited EIC developed oral cancers. In the multicovariate analysis including age, treatment, and histologic status as cofactors, positive ΔNp63 expression was associated with an increased hazard ratio of 3.308 (95% confidence interval, 1.663-6.580; P = 0.0007). Patients whose lesions showed positive ΔNp63, podoplanin, and EIC had the highest oral cancer risk with a hazard ratio of 4.372 (95% confidence interval, 1.912-9.992; P = 0.0005) and 61% oral cancer development rate at 5 years compared with 15% of other OPL patients (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: ΔNp63 overepression in OPL is associated with increased oral cancer risk. Together, ΔNp63, podoplanin, and EIC may be used as biomarkers to identify OPL patients with substantially high oral cancer risk. (Clin Cancer Res 2009;15(19):6284–91)
Reduced Response to Reward in Smokers and Cannabis Users
Authors: Martin-Soelch Chantal , Kobel Maja , Stoecklin Markus , Michael Tanja , Weber Simone , Krebs Bigna , Opwis Klaus
Published: September 2009

Background: Cannabis is one of the most commonly used illicit drugs. Reduced neural and behavioral reactions to reward have been demonstrated in other forms of addiction, as expressed by reduced mood reactivity and lack of striatal activation to rewards, but this effect has not yet been investigated in cannabis users. Methods: We hypothesized that cannabis users and tobacco smokers would evidence lower positive mood ratings in rewarded conditions than control participants and that this reduction would be greater in cannabis users than in smokers. We examined the influence of reward on mood and performance in a group of regular cannabis users, a group of tobacco smokers and a group of nonsmokers while they performed a spatial recognition task with delayed response that incorporated 3 levels of difficulty. Correct responses were either not reinforced or reinforced with money. We measured the accuracy of reactions, reaction times and mood ratings throughout the trials. Results: Cannabis users rated their mood as significantly worse than the smokers and nonsmokers during the easiest level of the rewarded condition. A significant positive correlation between mood ratings and monetary reward was found in the nonsmokers but not in the cannabis users and smokers. The groups did not differ with regard to task performance. Conclusions: Our results suggest that regular cannabis use affects certain aspects of motivation and that both tobacco smoking and cannabis use lead to similar motivational changes. However, the use of cannabis seems to affect motivation in a stronger way than does tobacco smoking alone.
The German NET-Registry: An Audit on the Diagnosis and Therapy of Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Ploeckinger Ursula , Kloeppel Guenter , Wiedenmann Bertram , Lohmann Ruediger
Published: September 2009

Aims: Clinical experience with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) is difficult to acquire because they are rare and heterogeneous. The impact of guidelines on the care for NETs is not known. The German NET Registry compiled information for Germany pertaining to three questions: who provides care for NET patients; does the care comply with proposed guidelines, and are the results comparable to those described in the literature? Patients and Methods: Between 2004 and 2007 data on 1,263 patients from 21 centers were compiled in a dedicated database. Results: Tumor location, age and sex compared well with published data. Most patients were cared for in centers with more than 100 (47.9%) or between 20 and 99 patients (46.1%). Imaging (magnetic resonance tomography, computer tomography, ultrasound) was available for 79% of the patients, specific laboratory tests for 67%, somatostatin receptor scintigraphy for 56%, and pathology findings for 79%. High-quality pathology reports were rare (2%). Sufficient documentation was mostly found in large centers. Surgery was the first-line therapy in 70.9%, while medical therapy was the second-line therapy in 45.7% of the patients. Median follow-up was 2.8 (0.4–6.4) and median overall survival was 2.5 (0.34–6.3) years. Conclusions: Most patients were referred to large specialized centers. Those centers adhered best to published guidelines for NETs. However, there are still significant deficiencies in the documentation of diagnostic results, mainly with regard to pathology reports. Therapeutic strategies were comparable between centers. The data provide a basis for future studies assessing improvements in documentation, diagnosis and treatment of NET.
Heparin, heparan sulfate and heparanase in inflammatory reactions
Authors: Vlodavsky Israel , Li Jin-ping
Published: September 2009

Heparan sulfate (HS) proteoglycans at the cell surface and in the extracellular matrix of most animal tissues are essential in development and homeostasis, and are implicated in disease processes. Emerging evidence demonstrates the important roles of HS in inflammatory reactions, particularly in the regulation of leukocyte extravasation. Heparin, a classical anticoagulant, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in animal models and in the clinic,presumably through interference with the functions of HS, as both polysaccharides share a high similarity in molecular structure. Apart of regulation during biosynthesis, the structures of HS and heparin are significantly modulated by heparanase, an endoglycosidase that is upregulated in a number of inflammatory conditions. Exploring the physiological roles of HS and heparin and the mode of heparanase action in modulating their functions during inflammation responses is of importance for future studies.
Severe malaria is associated with a deficiency of von Willebrand factor cleaving protease, ADAMTS13
Authors: Charunwatthana Prakaykaew , Cohen Sophie , Born Bert-Jan van den , Meijers Joost , Yunus Emran , Hassan Mahtab , Hoque Gofranul , Maude Richard , Nuchsongsin Forradee , Levi Marcel , Löwenberg Ester , Dondorp Arjen
Published: September 2009

Severe falciparum malaria remains a major killer in tropical countries. Central in the pathophysiology is mechanical obstruction in the micro-circulation caused by cytoadherence and sequestration of parasitized erythrocytes. However, the pathogenesis of many features complicating severe malaria, including coma, renal failure and thrombocytopenia, remains incompletely understood. These disease manifestations are also key features of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, a life-threatening disease strongly associated with a deficiency of the von Willebrand factor (VWF) cleaving protease, ADAMTS13. We measured plasma ADAMTS13 activity, VWF antigen and VWF propeptide levels in 30 patients with severe falciparum malaria, 12 patients with uncomplicated falciparum malaria and 14 healthy Bangladeshi controls. In patients with severe malaria ADAMTS13 activity levels were markedly decreased in comparison to normal controls (mean [95%CI]: 23% [20–26] vs. 64% [55–72]) and VWF antigen and propeptide concentrations were significantly elevated (VWF antigen: 439% [396–481] vs. 64% [46–83]; VWF propeptide: 576% [481–671] vs. 69% [59–78]). In uncomplicated malaria VWF levels were also increased compared to healthy controls but ADAMTS13 activity was normal. The results suggest that decreased ADAMTS13 activity in combination with increased VWF concentrations may contribute to the complications in severe malaria.
Platelet response heterogeneity in thrombus formation
Authors: Auger Jocelyn , Munnix Imke , Cosemans Judith , Heemskerk Johan
Published: September 2009

Vascular injury leads to formation of a structured thrombus as a consequence of platelet activation and aggregation, thrombin and fibrin formation, and trapping of leukocytes and red cells. This review summarises current evidence for heterogeneity of platelet responses and functions in the thrombus-forming process. Environmental factors contribute to response heterogeneity, as the platelets in a thrombus adhere to different substrates, and sense specific (ant)agonists and rheological conditions. Contraction of platelets and interaction with fibrin and other blood cells cause further response variation. On the other hand, response heterogeneity can also be due to intrinsic differences between platelets in age and in receptor and signalling proteins. As a result, at least three subpopulations of platelets are formed in a thrombus: aggregating platelets with (reversible) integrin activation, procoagulant (coated) platelets exposing phosphatidylserine and binding coagulation factors, and contracting platelets with cell-cell contacts. This recognition of thrombus heterogeneity has implications for the use and development of antiplatelet medication.
Prognosis in Heart Failure and the Value of β-Blockers Are Altered by the Use of Antidepressants and Depend on the Type of Antidepressants Used
Authors: Fosb�l Emil Loldrup , Gislason Gunnar H. , Poulsen Henrik Enghusen , Hansen Morten Lock , Folke Fredrik , Schramm Tina Ken , Olesen Jonas Bjerring , Bretler Ditte-Marie , Abildstr�m Steen Z. , S�rensen Rikke , Hvelplund Anders , K�ber Lars , Torp-Pedersen Christian
Published: September 2009

Background—Depression worsens the prognosis in patients with cardiac disease, and treatment with antidepressants may improve survival. Guidelines recommend use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), but knowledge of the prognostic effect of different classes of antidepressants is sparse.

Methods and Results—We studied 99 335 patients surviving first hospitalization for heart failure (HF) from 1997 to 2005. Use of HF medication and antidepressants (divided into tricyclic antidepressants [TCA] and SSRI) was determined by prescription claims. Risk of overall and cardiovascular death associated with antidepressants, HF medication, and coadministration of these 2 drug classes was estimated by Cox proportional hazard analyses. Propensity adjusted models were performed as sensitivity analysis. During the study period, there were 53 988 deaths, of which 83.0% were due to cardiovascular causes (median follow-up, 1.9 years; 5, 95% fractiles, 0.04 to 7.06 years). Use of β-blockers was associated with decreased risk of cardiovascular death (hazard ratio [HR], 0.77; 95% CI, 0.75 to 0.79). Antidepressants were prescribed to 19 411 patients, and both TCA and SSRI were associated with increased risk of overall and cardiovascular death (TCA: HR, 1.33; CI, 1.26 to 1.40; and HR, 1.25; CI, 1.17 to 1.32; SSRI: HR, 1.37; CI, 1.34 to 1.40; and HR, 1.34; CI, 1.30 to 1.38, respectively). Coadministration of SSRI and β-blockers was associated with a higher risk of overall and cardiovascular death compared with coadministration of β-blockers and TCA (Pfor interaction <0.01).

Conclusions—Use of antidepressants in patients with HF was associated with worse prognosis. Coadministration of SSRIs and β-blockers was associated with increased risk of overall death and cardiovascular death compared with coadministration of TCAs and β-blockers. To further clarify this, clinical trials testing the optimal antidepressant strategy in patients with HF are warranted.
Long-Term Follow-Up on a Large Cohort of “Full-Metal Jacket” Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Procedures
Authors: Sharp Andrew S.P. , Latib Azeem , Ielasi Alfonso , Larosa Claudio , Godino Cosmo , Saolini Marta , Magni Valeria , Gerber Robert T. , Montorfano Matteo , Carlino Mauro , Michev Iassen , Chieffo Alaide , Colombo Antonio
Published: September 2009

Background—

Limited long-term data exist on patients who have undergone drug-eluting stenting of very long lesions (requiring ≥60 mm of continuous stent) in native coronary arteries (“full-metal jacket”).

Methods and Results—

We examined consecutive procedures taking place between March 2002 and 2007 at 2 high-volume centers in Milan, Italy. Exclusion criteria were percutaneous coronary intervention for restenosis, percutaneous coronary intervention to a bypass graft, or percutaneous coronary intervention for acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (MI). We identified 658 full-metal jacket lesions in 617 patients. Average age of the cohort was 62.0�10.6; 32.8% were diabetic, 51.5% had a previous MI, and 33.4% had undergone a previous percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Mean ejection fraction was 52.1�10.4%. The lesion was a chronic total occlusion in 33.0%. Median duration of clinical follow-up was 39 months (interquartile range, 28 to 50). Six-month follow-up was achieved in 97% of patients; 2-year follow-up was achieved in 91%. All-cause mortality rate was 7.3%; cardiac death rate was 3.6%. Non–procedure-related MI rates were 3.5%. Target lesion revascularization rates were 23.4%. There were 17 cases of Academic Research Consortium–defined definite or probable stent thrombosis (2.6%): 5 acute, 2 subacute, 6 late, and 4 very late. Ten of the 17 cases occurred while the patient was receiving dual antiplatelet therapy; 4 of the 17 after premature termination of 1 or both antiplatelets, and 3 of the 17 occurred while the patient was receiving single-antiplatelet therapy, after having completed the prescribed course of dual antiplatelet therapy.

Conclusion—

When very long lesions (≥60 mm) were treated using overlapping drug-eluting stents, 23.4% required a further procedure for restenosis at 3-year follow-up. However, MI, stent thrombosis, and cardiac mortality rates were relatively low.
The Gehyra australis species complex (Sauria: Gekkonidae)
Authors: King Max
Published: September 2009

A chromosomal analysis of the gekko Gehyra australis (KING in press) revealed the presence of a series of genetically distinct chromosome races. Specimens from four of these chromosome races have been analysed morphologically. The present study indicates that each chromosome race can be specified in terms of pattern, colouration, scalation and morphometrics. The species Gehyra australis is therefore redefined, and a number of new species are described. Members of the Gehyra australis species group are listed, and a key to their diagnostic characteristics is provided.
The Annual Spermatogenetic Cycle of Tarentola mauritanica L. (Reptilia, Gekkonidae)
Authors: Angelini F. , Ciarcia G. , Picariello O. , D'Alterio E.
Published: September 2009

The gecko Tarentola mauritanica L. of southern Italy shows seemingly a tendentially continuous spermatogenetic cycle throughout the year. However, the amount of sperms produced at the level of the seminiferous tubules varies remarkably in the different months of the year: it is maximum in spring and in early summer, whereas it markedly decreases in June-July, when a drastic reduction in spermatogonial mitoses is observed. The slowing down in the spermatogonial activity not involves the complete disappearance of any definite cell stage of gametogenesis, but spermatogenesis is strongly reduced. In winter there is another slowing down in spermatogenesis, anyhow some new spermatozoa continue to form and to be released, though in extremely limited amounts. The general pattern of spermatogenesis is, therefore, of mixed or thermo-rigostatic type. The epididymis appears well developed throughout the year, showing only in wintera decreased amount of secretion. The epididymal tail acts as a system of spermatozoa storage, so that it is always full of sperms also in the period when the gametogenetic activity is at its minimum.
Concentrations of Heavy Metals in Common Lizards (Lacerta vivipara) and their Food and Environment
Authors: Avery R.A. , White A.S. , Martin M.H. , Hopkin S.P.
Published: September 2009

Specimens of the common lizard Lacerta vivipara were captured from beside a busy road, a little used country road, and the spoil heaps of a disused lead mine. Concentrations oflead, zinc and copper in lizards from beside the busy road were no higher than in those from the little used road, although levels in soils, vegetation and some invertebrates were greater. Levels of lead were higher, however, in lizards from the site contaminated by mining. Concentrations of metals in lizards from all three sites were lower than those in soils and most invertebrates, demonstrating that L. vivipara do not accumulate heavy metals to an extent that their position in the food chain might suggest.
The Central and South American Anomalepid Snakes of the Genus Liotyphlops
Authors: Dixon James R. , Kofron Christopher P.
Published: September 2009

The essential characters of the anomalepid snake genus Liotyphlops are found in its osteology, scale rows, numbers of dorsals, size, and head scale arrangements. The twelve currently recognized species of Liotyphlops are reduced to five through the analyses of variation of all available specimens in the Genus. Liotyphlops caracasensis, L. cucutae, L. guentheri, L. incertus, L. metae, L. petersi, and L. rowani, are placed in the synonomy of other species. One currently recognized synonym, L. beui, is removed from synonomy and recognized as a separate species. A new species is described from the Rio Magdalena basin of Colombia, and one individual from Brazil represents an apparent new species, but is not formally described in this paper. Other species of Liotyphlops recognized by us areL. albirostris, L. anops, L. schubarti, L. ternetzii, and L. wilderi. Variation in lateral head scale arrangements is documented for a large series of L. albirostris from Panama. Head scale variations, variations in numbers of scale rows about the body, and absence ofan unified method of labeling head scales has produced an excessive number of synonyms for the species of the genus. A new method for labeling lateral head scales of Liotyphlops is proposed, the entire distribution ofthe genus is clarified, and a key to the species is presented.
A Qualitative Investigation of Averted School Shooting Rampages
Authors: Daniels Jeffrey A. , Volungis Adam , Pshenishny Erin , Gandhi Punita , Winkler Amy , Cramer Daniel P. , Bradley Mary C.
Published: September 2009

The recent rash of school violence has again brought to the fore a need to investigate ways to enhance the safety of America’s children. With its emphases on prevention and collaboration with schools, a counseling psychology perspective can add much to the growing body of research on lethal school violence. This article aims to understand school violence prevention from the perspectives of school personnel who intervened to avert deadly shootings. As such, this study used consensual qualitative research methodology. Six primary domains emerged from the data, including school conditions, intervention, crisis planning, relationship, prevention efforts, and problematic issues. A seventh other domain captured important data that did not fit with the aforementioned six domains. From all domains, data were collapsed into 42 core ideas.
Remapping Inequality in Europe
Authors: Beckfield Jason
Published: September 2009

Research on the determinants of inequality has implicated globalization in the increased income inequality observed in many advanced capitalist countries since the 1970s. Meanwhile, a different form of international embeddedness — regional integration — has largely escaped attention. Regional integration, conceptualized as the construction of international economy and polity within negotiated regions, should matter for inequality. This article offers theoretical arguments that distinguish globalization from regional integration, connects regional integration to inequality through multiple theoretical mechanisms, develops hypotheses on the relationship between regional integration and inequality, and reports fresh empirical evidence on the net effect of regional integration on inequality in Western Europe. Three classes of models are used in the analysis: 1) time-series models where region-year is the unit of analysis, 2) panel models where country-year is the unit of analysis, and 3) analysis of variance to identify how the between- and within-country components of income inequality have changed over time. The evidence suggests that regional integration remaps inequality in Europe. Regionalization is associated with both a decrease in between-country inequality, and an increase in within-country inequality. The analysis of variance shows that the net effect is negative, and that within-country inequality now comprises a larger proportion of total income inequality.
Globalization and North—South Inequality, 1870—2000
Authors: Rasler Karen , Thompson William R.
Published: September 2009

Analysts continue to debate the nature of the relationship between globalization and global inequality between states, with some arguing that globalization increases inequality, others saying that the relationship is negative, and still others suggesting that the relationship varies over time. There is actually more overlap in these positions than is apparent — an element underlined by our own argument that globalization’s effects can be both positive and negative simultaneously. We argue that globalization contributes to intra-Northern convergence while it reinforces North—South divergence. An 1870—2000 time series analysis of the relationships among trade and financial globalization and North—South inequality supports this prediction, while also finding that the effects of globalization are time dependent.
India's Forays into Space
Authors: Reddy S Vijayasekhara
Published: September 2009

Launched in August 1961, the Indian space programme has made steady progress over the years. The participation of Indian scientists in the International Geophysical Year (1957–58) marked the beginning of India's international cooperation in peaceful uses of outer space. Conceived as a civilian scientific programme in the beginning, its practical applications were expanded later to fulfil the defence and development needs of the country. In the process there emerged a close coordination between civilian space and missile programmes The denial of technology by the developed countries forced India to indigenize its programmes and create synergy between defence and development. Given the constraints on the civilian space programme, its achievements have been quite outstanding. While the development of the Indian space programme is well researched, the process of its evolution is understudied. This article seeks to fill this gap.
The European Union and Central Asia
Authors: Yazdani Enayatollah
Published: September 2009

In the post-9/11 period, Central Asia has assumed greater significance for the European Union (EU). Since 2007, the EU has adopted a proactive approach towards the region and sought to promote political and economic stability through democracy and rule of law. At the same time, it wants to secure the flow of energy from Central Asia and balance the influence of big powers like Russia and China. Analyzing these developments, the article argues that, in the coming years, the EU will adopt a more proactive role in the region.
Mechanical Properties and Flame Retardancy Research of Montmorillonite Intercalate Polyamide 66 Composites
Authors: Yang Xiaofeng , Li Qiaolin , Chen Zhiping , Han Hongli , Jing Hongxia
Published: September 2009

A series of exfoliated nanocomposites or microcomposites have been fabricated with different organophilic montmorillonite (OMMT) loading via in situ intercalation polymerization and melt intercalation. Their structure and mechanical properties were investigated and compared with XRD and other advanced facilities systematically. Flame retardancy was evaluated by conventional limiting oxygen index (LOI) and char residue ratio. Experiment results shows that fabricated technology have unobvious influence on micro-structure, tensile strength and tensile modulus of PA66/OMMT composites. On the contrary, the alteration of OMMT loading cause dramatic change on both mechanical performance and flame retardancy. The maximum tensile strength of PA66/OMMT composites is 106 MPa with 3 wt% OMMT loading. The addition of OMMT enhances obviously the mechanical property and flame retardancy of PA66.
A Hyperelastic Approach for Composite Reinforcement Large Deformation Analysis
Authors: Aimène Y. , Vidal-Sallé E. , Hagège B. , Sidoroff F. , Boisse P.
Published: September 2009

A hyperelastic constitutive model is developed for textile composite reinforcement at large strain. A potential is proposed, which is the addition of two tension and one shear energies. The proposed potential is a function of the right Cauchy Green and structural tensor invariants whose choice corresponds to textile composite reinforcement mechanical behavior which exhibits weak elongations in the fiber directions and large angular variations in the fabric plane.

The model is implemented in a Vumat user routine of ABAQUS/Explicit. Some elementary tests are performed in order to identify the model and verify its validity. It is then used to simulate the hemispherical punch forming of balanced and unbalanced fabrics. A correct agreement is obtained with experimental forming processes.
Experimental Study on Impact Resistance Properties of T300/Epoxy Composite Laminates
Authors: Guiping Zhao  , Chongdu Cho  , Sheng Lu  , Zhenghao Wang
Published: September 2009

The impact resistance properties of T300/epoxy composite laminates are experimented at different velocities of 10—300 m/s striking on the laminates [(45/—45)4]s, [(0/45/90/—45)2] s, and [(0/45/90/—45)4]s. The striking and residual velocities of bullets shot by a high-speed gas gun are measured by laser velocity measurement device. In the tests, the whole penetration process is recorded by high-speed camera from the front side of targets, and then the fracture and the energy absorption of specimens are analyzed. Under the high-velocity impact, the in situ stress distribution is investigated through the reading of strain gages installed on specimens. Failure models of target laminates are discussed at three types of bullet striking velocities, classified as the less, equal, and lager than the ballistic limit velocity.
Mechanical Properties of Poly(vinyl alcohol) Montmorillonite Nanocomposites
Authors: Soundararajah Q.Y. , Karunaratne B.S.B. , Rajapakse R.M.G.
Published: September 2009

The properties of polymers are greatly enhanced when they are incorporated with silicate-layered clays as they find many applications in the fields of electronics, automobile industry, packaging, and construction. In this study a thermoplastic polymer poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and montmorillonite (MMT) clay were used to prepare MMT-PVA nanocomposites and their mechanical properties were investigated. In general PVA is used in paper coating and packaging where their tensile strength and tearing strength are vital. The MMT-PVA nanocomposites displayed more than 60% increase in the tensile strength and young’s modulus where as the tearing energy doubles the value of neat PVA. This is a substantial enhancement compared to that reported so far. The enhancement was achieved at low clay content probably due to its exfoliated structure. The dispersed clay layers are well embedded with PVA matrix via strong interatomic interactions leading to better material properties.
Fiber Alignment in Directed Carbon Fiber Preforms - Mechanical Property Prediction
Authors: Harper L.T. , Turner T.A. , Martin J.R.B. , Warrior N.A.
Published: September 2009

A finite element method is presented for predicting the mechanical performance of discontinuous fiber mesostructures typically produced by directed carbon fiber preforming. High-filament count bundles are modeled using beam elements to enable large representative volume elements to be studied. The beams are attached to a regular grid of 2D continuum elements, which represent the matrix material, using an embedded element technique. The model is validated by comparing simulations with experimental data for random and aligned fiber architectures produced with different tow sizes (6 and 24 K) and fiber lengths (28, 58, and 115 mm). Stiffness and strength predictions are generally within 10% for 6 K preforms, but this error increases up to 40% with increasing tow size because of the assumption that the fiber bundles are circular in cross-section.
Valproic Acid Plasma Concentration Decreases in a Dose‐Independent Manner Following Administration of Meropenem: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Haroutiunian Simon , Ratz Yael , Rabinovich Bella , Adam Miriam , Hoffman Amnon
Published: September 2009

Several case reports indicate that carbapenem antibiotics, especially meropenem, may decrease the plasma concentrations of valproic acid (VPA), thus decreasing its therapeutic activity. To investigate the onset, severity, and dose dependency of the interaction between meropenem and VPA, the authors carried out a retrospective evaluation of data collected during 24 months from patients hospitalized in a tertiary medical center. The analysis included 36 patients. VPA mean ± SEM plasma concentration decreased from of 50.8 ± 4.5 μg/mL to 9.9 ± 2.1 μg/mL (P< .001) following meropenem administration. After discontinuation of meropenem, VPA plasma concentrations remained low for 7 days and then gradually increased after 8 to 14 days, reaching values comparable to those before meropenem initiation. Different daily VPA doses showed a similar pattern of decreased VPA concentrations. The mean decrease in individual plasma VPA concentration was 82.1% ± 2.7%. The mean VPA plasma concentration of patients in whom samples were drawn within 24 hours of meropenem initiation was 9.9 ± 3.2 μg/mL. In conclusion, the interaction between meropenem and VPA causes a significant decrease in VPA plasma concentration, apparently within 24 hours. As the therapeutic effects of VPA are plasma concentration dependent, the data suggest that these drugs should not be administered concomitantly.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Teduglutide Following Repeated Subcutanenous Administrations in Healthy Participants and in Patients With Short Bowel Syndrome and Crohn's Disease
Authors: Marier Jean‐Francois , Mouksassi Mohamad‐Samer , Gosselin Nathalie H. , Beliveau Martin , Cyran Jane , Wallens John
Published: September 2009

Teduglutide is a GLP‐2 analog currently evaluated for the treatment of short bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and other gastrointestinal disorders. The population pharmacokinetics (PK) of teduglutide were assessed following daily subcutaneous (SC) administrations of 2.5 to 80 mg doses in a total of 256 patients. A 1‐compartment model with a site‐specific rate constant of absorption in the abdomen, arm, and thigh was used to assess the PK of teduglutide. Apparent clearance (CL/F) of teduglutide in male participants was approximately 18% higher than that observed in female participants (12.4 vs 10.5 L/h, respectively). Body weight was detected as a significant covariate explaining the volume of distribution of teduglutide. The elimination half‐life (t1/2) of teduglutide was also influenced by the body weight of participants. For a male patient weighing 50 and 90 kg, t1/2 of teduglutide was 0.897 and 2.99 hours, respectively. Renal and hepatic function of patients did not affect the PK of teduglutide. As a result, no dose adjustment was deemed necessary in patients with altered renal or liver function. The population PK model will help to support adequate drug labeling following SC administrations in patients and determine whether an individualized dosage is required.
The Importance of Funding Postsecondary Correctional Educational Programs
Authors: Mercer Kerri Russo
Published: September 2009

The correctional population in the United States has increased dramatically in the past two decades and shows no sign of tapering off. In addition, the recidivism rates of those inmates who are released are high. Consequently, various constituencies have questioned how the number of inmates who return to the correctional population can be reduced. It has been empirically established that the more education acquired by inmates the less likely they are to return to the correctional population. However, funding for postsecondary correctional education (PSCE) programs has been neglected by the federal government, resulting in limited opportunities for inmates to participate in PSCE programs. This article profiles the prisoner population in the United States, describes three state correctional education programs in which community college play a central role, and makes the case for additional fiscal support for PSCE programs.
Intralobar Nephroblastematosis in a Nine-week-old Wistar Rat
Authors: Kalaiselvan P. , Mathur K.Y. , Pande V.V. , Madheswaran R. , Bhelonde J.J. , Shelar P.D. , Udupa V. , Shingatgeri V.M.
Published: September 2009

Intralobar nephroblastematosis (ILNB) is a precursor lesion to the development of nephroblastoma (NB) in rats. Unilateral ILNB was observed in the kidney of a nine-week-old female Wistar rat (Crl:WI) from a short-term toxicity study. Clinical pathology and urinalysis did not reveal altered renal function. This microscopic, unencapsulated lesion consisted of basophilic sheets of blastemal cells that did not include a prominent mesenchymal component. These cells expanded in the interstitium, which trapped and compressed few normal renal tubules. The blastemal cells moderately differentiated to form rosettes, primitive tubules, and a glomeruloid body. Multifocally, the lumen of primitive tubules contained eosinophilic secretions with basophilic material in the center. The diagnostic criteria used were compared and differentiated with renal dysplasia, nephrogenic rest, NB in rats, and with that of the identical lesion in children.
Patient Time Requirements for Anticoagulation Therapy with Warfarin
Authors: Jonas Daniel E. , Bryant Shilliday Betsy , Laundon W. Russell , Pignone Michael
Published: September 2009

Background. Most patients receiving warfarin are managed in outpatient office settings or anticoagulation clinics that require frequent visits for monitoring. Objective. To measure the amount and value of time required of patients for chronic anticoagulation therapy with warfarin. Design/Participants. Prospective observation of a cohort of adult patients treated at a university-based anticoagulation program. Measurements. Participants completed a questionnaire and a prospective diary of the time required for 1 visit to the anticoagulation clinic, including travel, waiting, and the clinic visit. The authors reviewed subjects’ medical records to obtain additional information, including the frequency of visits to the anticoagulation clinic. They used the human capital method to estimate the value of time. Results. Eighty-five subjects completed the study. The mean (median) total time per visit was 147 minutes (123). Subjects averaged 15 visits per year (14) and spent 39.0 hours (29.3) per year on their visits. Other anticoagulation-related activities, such as communication with providers, pharmacy trips, and extra time preparing food, added an average of 52.7 hours (19.0) per year. The mean annual value of patient time spent traveling, waiting, and attending anticoagulation visits was $707 (median $591). The mean annual value when also including other anticoagulation-related activities was $1799 (median $1132). Conclusions. The time required of patients for anticoagulation visits was considerable, averaging approximately 2.5 hours per visit and almost 40 hours per year. Methods for reducing patient time requirements, such as home-based testing, could reduce costs for patients, employers, and companions.
The Adoption of Cost-Effectiveness Acceptability Curves in Cost-Utility Analyses
Authors: Meckley Lisa M. , Greenberg Dan , Cohen Joshua T. , Neumann Peter J.
Published: September 2009

Background. Cost-effectiveness acceptability curves (CEACs) plot the probability that one health intervention is more cost-effective than alternatives, as a function of societal willingness to pay for additional units of health (e.g., life-years or quality-adjusted life-years gained). Objectives. To quantify the adoption of CEACs in published cost-utility analyses (CUAs), and to identify factors associated with CEAC use. Methods. Data from the Tufts Medical Center Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Registry (www.cearegistry.org), a database with detailed information on approximately 1,400 CUAs published in the peer reviewed literature through 2006, was analyzed. The registry includes data on study origin, study methodology, reporting of results, whether CEACs were presented, and a subjective quality score. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors predicting CEAC use, from their introduction in 1994 through 2006. Results. Approximately 15% of CUAs published since 1994 present a CEAC. The use of CEACs has increased rapidly in recent years, from 2.1% of published CUAs in 2001 to 32.6% in 2006 (P < 0.0001). The most significant predictors of CEAC use were study quality (odds ratio [OR]: 2.26; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.80, 2.85), recent publication (OR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.73, 2.29), and whether studies pertain to the UK (OR: 5.66; 95% CI: 3.67, 8.72) or Sweden (OR: 3.76; 95% CI: 1.67, 8.44). Conclusions. CEAC use is increasing in the published cost-effectiveness literature, especially in UK-based studies.
Cerebellum Can Be a Possible Generator of Progressive Myoclonus
Authors: Koh Kyung Nam , Lim Byung Chan , Hwang Hee , Park June Dong , Chae Jong Hee , Kim Ki Joong , Hwang Yong-Seung , Kim Seung-Ki , Wang Kyu-Chang , Moon Han Ku
Published: September 2009

A 19-month-old girl presented with progressive myoclonic jerking of both proximal lower extremities. On her brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the authors found an ill-defined mass involving cerebellar vermis and the right middle cerebellar peduncle. 11C-methionine positron emission tomography (PET) showed no abnormalities, but 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET revealed a well-defined hypermetabolic focus. Depth electrodes were inserted deep into the mass, which recorded focal slow waves associated with the clinical myoclonus. Following the removal of the tumor, the myoclonus was completely resolved with no neurological deficit. Here, the authors present a case showing progressive myoclonus associated with a cerebellar ganglioglioma with the electrophysiological data, which provides strong supportive evidence that the cerebellum can be a myoclonus generator.
Pathological Evidence of Vacuolar Myelinopathy in a Child Following Vigabatrin Administration
Authors: Horton Myles , Rafay Mubeen , Del Bigio Marc R.
Published: September 2009

Vigabatrin, a γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) aminotransferase— inhibiting drug used for seizure control, has been associated with white matter vacuolation and intramyelinic edema in animal studies. Similar pathological lesions have never been described in the central nervous system of human participants treated with the drug. Described here is a child with quadriparetic cerebral palsy secondary to hypoxic-ischemic brain injury following premature birth, who received vigabatrin for the treatment of infantile spasms at 9 months of age. A severe deterioration of neurologic function immediately followed the initiation of vigabatrin, and the child died 3 weeks later. Neuropathological examination revealed white matter vacuolation and intramyelinic edema. This represents the first reported case of vigabatrin-induced intramyelinic edema in humans. It validates the concerns regarding vigabatrin safety in infants and individuals with preexisting abnormalities of myelin.
“It’s Way out of my League”
Authors: Bell Ann V.
Published: September 2009

The cultural construction of motherhood represents women of low socioeconomic status (SES) as excessively fertile, placing them outside of the infertility discourse. Previous research on infertility reinforces poor women’s exclusion by focusing on the experiences of women receiving medical treatment, typically women of high SES. In this article, the author explores how 20 poor and working-class women negotiate their experiences of infertility. In-depth interviews expose the contextual experiences of infertility among women of low SES, specifically revealing the structural inequality apparent within those experiences. The women are not passive objects of dominant discourses; they are active subjects in resisting, redefining, and accepting the discourses according to their contexts. Women of low SES are outsiders—within to dominant understandings and resolutions to infertility. Their unique insights not only provide a more nuanced understanding of infertility but they also begin to deconstruct the stratified system of reproduction.
Gendered Sexuality in Young Adulthood
Authors: Hamilton Laura , Armstrong Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2009

Current work on hooking up—or casual sexual activity on college campuses—takes an individualistic, “battle of the sexes” approach and underestimates the importance of college as a classed location. The authors employ an interactional, intersectional approach using longitudinal ethnographic and interview data on a group of college women’s sexual and romantic careers. They find that heterosexual college women contend with public gender beliefs about women’s sexuality that reinforce male dominance across both hookups and committed relationships. The four-year university, however, also reflects a privileged path to adulthood. The authors show that it is characterized by a classed self-development imperative that discourages relationships but makes hooking up appealing. Experiences of this structural conflict vary. More privileged women struggle to meet gender and class guidelines for sexual behavior, placing them in double binds. Less privileged women find the class beliefs of the university foreign and hostile to their sexual and romantic logics.
End-of-Life Communication: Ethnic Differences Between Korean American and Non-Hispanic White Older Adults
Authors: Ko Eunjeong , Lee Jaehoon
Published: September 2009

Objective: This study examined ethnic differences in end-of-life communication between Korean American and non-Hispanic White older adults using the Health Belief Model as a conceptual framework. Method: A cross-sectional design was employed to survey 217 community-dwelling older adults (112 Korean Americans and 105 Non-Hispanic Whites). Results: Half of the participants had never held end-of-life discussions with significant others. Non-Hispanic Whites were more likely to engage in end-of-life communication than Korean Americans, but the ethnicity effect was not evident in a multivariate analysis. Only participants’ knowledge, perceived barriers, perceived severity, and experience of illness significantly predicted the likelihood of the end-of-life communication. Higher knowledge, stronger beliefs about the perceived severity and barriers, and greater experience of illness were related to having end-of-life communication. Discussion: Knowledge and health beliefs play an important role in end-of-life communication which differs by ethnicity. Culturally competent health care practitioners need to consider ethnic variation in advance care planning.
Institutionalization, Privatization, and Political Opportunity: What Tactical Choices Reveal About the Policy Advocacy of Human Service Nonprofits
Authors: Mosley Jennifer E.
Published: September 2009

Although awareness of the involvement of human service nonprofits (HSNPs) in policy advocacy has grown, scholars continue to know little about how they actually carry out their advocacy work. This study uses a large, representative survey of HSNPs to answer two primary research questions: First, what kinds of advocacy tactics do HSNPs participate in most frequently? Second, does reliance on government funding and greater institutionalization, both pervasive trends among HSNPs, affect the choices they make when it comes to the tactics they engage in? Findings indicate that HSNPs are involved in a wide range of advocacy tactics, but that together the field-level trends of institutionalization and privatization may be increasing political opportunity for HSNPs, leading to tactical choices similar to those of interest groups. Increased institutionalization and dependence on government funding are associated with using a wider variety of tactics overall and increased use of insider tactics in particular.
The Finale of the Wisdom of Solomon: Its Context, Translation and Significance *
Authors: Jones Ivor H.
Published: September 2009

In this article a detailed examination of the language, context, content and function of Wis. 19.18-22 is offered, one which throws light on the literary structure and character of the whole book and its religious and cultural setting. Particular attention is given to the translation of Wis. 19.18 and to its musical terms and imagery. This approach leads to fresh conclusions regarding the references in the book to the cosmic elements, conclusions which are significant both for the book as a whole and for tracing the extensive literary history of that phrase. Finally, the light thrown here on the structure and character of the book is used to provide criteria for the assessment of recent hypotheses regarding its main features.
On Nebuchadnezzar in Pseudo-Sirach
Authors: Nissan Ephraim
Published: September 2009

Pseudo-Sirach is arguably a pseudepigraphon, even though Ben Sira, the protagonist, is referred to in the third person. It is an early medieval Hebrew-language homiletical collection, structured as exchanges between the child prodigy Ben Sira (Jeremiah’s son), and King Nebuchadnezzar. This article offers a general discussion of the structure of the frame-story, in which Nebuchadnezzar and Ben Sira are interlocutors. It contrasts this to another source poking fun at Nebuchadnezzar. Then, the difference between this treatment of the destroyer of the First Temple and how early rabbinic sources treated Vespasian and Titus is considered. The only such locus which comes close to the pattern in Pseudo-Sirach is the subnarrative about how R. Joḥanan ben Zakkai comes to the rescue of Vespasian as the latter, having been informed, while having put on a shoe, that the Romans made him their king, is unable to put on the other shoe. In contrast, the appearance of the Pseudo Nero shaped the early rabbinic narrative about Nero, and if we are to find a Nero parallel to Jewish derisive treatments of Nebuchadnezzar, it is in the Latin Commenta Bernensia to Lucan’s Pharsalia that we can find them.