bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Market for Force and Public Security: The Destabilizing Consequences of Private Military Companies
Authors: Leander Anna
Published: August 2005

This article explains how it is possible to arrive at the paradoxical conclusion that an increased reliance on private actors (in the guise of private military companies) could consolidate public peace and security in the weakest African states. It argues that this conclusion can only be reached if the dynamics of the market for force are neglected. The basic claim is that the market as a whole has effects that cannot be captured by focussing on single cases. The article analyses these effects, departing from the empirical functioning of supply, demand and externalities in the market for force in order to spell out the implications for public security. More specifically, the article shows that supply in the market for force tends to self-perpetuate, as PMCs turn out a new caste of security experts striving to fashion security understandings to defend and conquer market shares. The process leads to an expansion of the numbers and kinds of threats the firms provide protection against. Moreover, demand does not penalize firms that service ‘illegitimate’ clients in general. Consequently, the number of actors who can wield control over the use force is limited mainly by their ability to pay. Finally, an externality of the market is to weaken existing security institutions by draining resources and worsening the security coverage. This gives further reasons to contest the legitimacy of existing security orders. In other words, the development of a market for force increases the availability and perceived need for military services, the number of actors who have access to them and the reasons to contest existing security orders. This hardly augurs well for public security.
Challenges in Conducting Empirical Work Using Structuration Theory: Learning from IT Research
Authors: Pozzebon Marlei , Pinsonneault Alain
Published: August 2005

Giddens’s structuration theory is increasingly used as an alternative approach to studying numerous organizational phenomena. However, the applicability of Giddens’s concepts is not without difficulties because of two main challenges. First, structuration theory is complex, involving concepts and general propositions that operate at a high level of abstraction. Second, structuration theory is not easily coupled to any specific research method or methodological approach, and it is difficult to apply empirically. Arguing that structuration theory is a valuable framework for a rich understanding of management, organization and related subjects of inquiry, this paper aims to improve the application of structuration theory in empirical work by drawing on the experience in information technology (IT) research. It identifies patterns of use of Giddens’s theory in publications in the domain of IT, and then describes how IT researchers have attempted to address its major empirical challenges. The paper presents a repertoire of research strategies that might guide students of organization in dealing with three elements that are central to structuration theory: duality of structure, time/space and actors’ knowledgeability.
Quantifying Error and Uncertainty in CFAST 2.0 Temperature Predictions
Authors: Lundin Johan
Published: August 2005

In this paper the predictive capability of the smoke transport model CFAST 2.0 is evaluated for five different scenario configurations. The evaluation is made by statistical analysis according to a methodology presented in an earlier paper. Model predictions and experimental data, previously published, are compared and quantitative measures of the predictive capability are thus derived. With the quantitative knowledge of the model error, future predictions from the two-zone model can be adjusted so that the error is taken into account. The suitable method of adjustment depends on how the uncertainty is treated in a specific application. This can be done either by using conservative adjustments or by treating the uncertainty in the predictions as a stochastic variable. The evaluation shows that the statistical method is applicable for this purpose and that reduction of the model error can be achieved with the adjustment model for the types of scenarios subject to analysis.
Study of the Transitional State between Two Wood Crib Burning Regimes by CO Concentration in a Confined Space
Authors: Hu L. H. , Li Y. Z. , Huo R. , Wang H. B.
Published: August 2005

Traditionally, the burning of wood cribs has been divided into a surface area controlled regime, and a porosity controlled regime according to mass loss rate. In the two regimes, the concentration of CO produced should also have different characteristics. In this paper, the variation of concentration of CO produced by burning wood cribs is studied. A series of experiments with different wood crib structures are conducted. The mass loss rate and the concentration of CO are measured. It has been found that the concentration of CO has an obvious transitional state, and the corresponding transitional value of porosity factor for dividing the two burning regimes according to the concentration of CO is exactly the same as that according to the mass loss rate.
Experimental Study on Spontaneous Ignition of Wood Exposed to Variable Heat Flux
Authors: Lizhong Yang , Zaifu Guo , Jingwei Ji , Weicheng Fan
Published: August 2005

The ignition of combustible materials is an important process in a fire incident. In this work, an experimental study on the ignition process of wood exposed to a variable heat flux has been carried out. Increasing heat flux is adopted and adjusted to simulate a practical fire environment. The time to ignition, temperature distribution, and mass loss are measured for two species of wood. Both, the increasing rate of incident heat flux and the properties of wood, especially density, obviously affect the results. A conduction model is developed to calculate the surface temperature. A compound ignition criterion is brought out for a variable heat flux.
Ammonium Polyphosphate Fire Retardance in HIPS: The Effect of 2-Methyl-1,2-oxaphospholan-5-one 2-Oxide
Authors: Balabanovich Aliaksandr I. , Prokopovich Vladimir P.
Published: August 2005

A mixture of ammonium polyphosphate and 2-methyl-1,2- oxaphospholan-5-one 2-oxide exhibits a synergistic fire-retardant effect in high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), as measured by the oxygen index and UL94 vertical burning test. Mechanistic studies carried out by means of TGA, FT-IR, and GC/MS revealed that the condensed-phase activity of the additives resulted in the formation of a polyphosphoric acid and probable polyphosphazene-type structures is likely to account for the flame retardation. In addition, reaction between the additives and polymer alters the composition of the pyrolysis products compared to those of neat HIPS.
Experimental Studies on Mechanical Smoke Exhaust System in an Atrium
Authors: Chow W. K. , Yi L. , Shi C. L. , Li Y. Z. , Huo R.
Published: August 2005

Mechanical smoke exhaust systems are usually required in big atria of the Far East. However, the design criteria are not clearly demonstrated to be worked out through systematic full-scale tests. There are many arguments on sizing the exhaust fans, and whether a high exhaust rate is required in an atrium is a puzzle. Atrium hot smoke tests might be required to be carried out occasionally to evaluate their performance, especially when the design does not comply with the prescriptive code in having a high-enough exhaust rate.

Experimental studies on mechanical smoke exhaust systems are necessary and have been carried out. The results are reported in this paper. The measured results are also compared with the empirical equations used in designs, following NFPA-92B derived by a two-layer picture. A simple zone model reported earlier is applied to justify the results. This model is also developed based on a two-layer picture.

There are significant deviations of the measured results from those predicted by the equations with a two-layer pattern. Mass exchange through the two layers in an atrium fire is suggested to be the key point. By taking the estimated mass flow rate across the two layers by experiments to be 30% of the exhaust rate under high ventilation conditions, the two-layer zone model is modified. Slightly better argument with the experiments was found for the self-developed two-layer zone model, but still there are large deviations for the NFPA-92B equations.
Identification of Unbalance and Crack Acting Simultaneously in a Rotor System: Modal Expansion versus Reduced Basis Dynamic Expansion
Authors: Sekhar A. S.
Published: August 2005

The vibration in rotating machinery is mostly caused by unbalance, misalignment, mechanical looseness, shaft crack, and other malfunctions. The diagnostics of rotor faults have been gaining importance in recent years. Many papers in the literature have dealt with single fault identification, but, normally, more than one fault can occur in a rotor. In the present study a model-based method is proposed for the on-line identification of faults in a rotor. The fault-induced change of the rotor system is taken into account by equivalent loads in the mathematical model. The equivalent loads are virtual forces and moments acting on the linear undamaged system to generate a dynamic behavior identical to that measured in the damaged system. The rotor has been modeled using the finite element method with unbalance and crack as the considered faults. Different shape expansion methods are compared for fault identification. The identification process is also simulated when both unbalance and crack are acting simultaneously on the rotor. The fault size and location have been identified while the nature and symptoms of the faults are ascertained using fast Fourier transform.
“Delay Scheduling”: A New Concept for Stabilization in Multiple Delay Systems
Authors: Olgac Nejat , Ergenc Ali Fuat , Sipahi Rifat
Published: August 2005

A trajectory-tracking problem is considered for a linear time invariant (LTI) dynamics with a fixed control law. However, the feedback line is affected by multiple time delays. The stability of the dynamics becomes a complex problem. It is well known that time-delayed LTI systems may exhibit multiple stable operating zones (which we call pockets) in the space of the delays. Our aim in this paper is to locate and experimentally validate these pockets. For the analytical determination of the pockets we utilize a new methodology, the cluster treatment of characteristic roots (CTCR). The study results in several interesting conclusions. (i) The systems may exhibit better control performance (for instance, faster disturbance rejection) for larger time delays. (ii) Consequently, we propose a unique and interesting utilization of the time delays as agents to enhance the control performance, the delay scheduling technique.
Effect of Pre-stress States on the Impulsive Modes of Vibration of Cylindrical Tank-liquid Systems under Horizontal Motions
Authors: Virella Juan C. , Suarez Luis E. , Godoy Luis A.
Published: August 2005

In this paper we investigate the influence of hydrostatic pressure and self-weight loads (pre-stress state) on the natural periods and mode shapes of steel cylindrical tanks and on the response under horizontal motions. The tank structure is modeled with finite elements and added mass models are used to represent the liquid. Only the impulsive component of the hydrodynamic response is considered. The natural periods and mode shapes for tank-liquid systems including and neglecting the effect of the pre-stress state are computed and compared. Three tank-liquid systems with different cylinder height to diameter ratios and slenderness ratios are considered. The numerical results show that the pre-stress state has a significant influence in the natural periods and mode shapes of tank-liquid systems with thinner walls; however, for thicker shells this effect is reduced. When the pre-stress state is neglected and included, the smaller differences in natural periods occur, for modes characterized by small circumferential wavenumbers. The steady-state response of a tank-liquid system to horizontal harmonic base accelerations was also computed. Large differences were found when the pre-stress state was neglected. A comparison of the frequency response functions shows that the peak responses occur at quite different load periods and they have significantly different amplitudes.
Active Control of Axial-flow Fan Noise Using Magnetic Bearings
Authors: Piper George E. , Watkins John M. , Thorp Owen G.
Published: August 2005

In this paper we present a novel approach to reducing blade-rate noise of axial-flow fans. By using magnetic bearings as a noise control actuator, it is possible to collocate the anti-noise source with the disturbance noise source. This approach allows for global noise reduction throughout the sound field. A DC motor connected to a fan by a short rigid shaft was used to demonstrate this approach. The shaft was supported in the radial and axial directions by magnetic bearings. The bearings provide position control of the shaft and fan; this position control can be used to vibrate the fan at a desired frequency and amplitude. Controlled vibration of the fan allows its use as a speaker in an active noise control scheme. Noise control was implemented on a dedicated digital signal processor using a least mean square algorithm. The output of the noise control algorithm supplies the position commands for the magnetic bearing controller. Experimental data showed that by actuating the axial thrust bearing, the noise output of a fan could be reduced by 4 dB at the error microphone, and 3 dB at points away from the error microphone.
Use of the Conners-Wells Adolescent Self-Report Scale (Short Form) with Children
Authors: Parker James D. A. , Bond Barbara J. , Reker Dana L. , Wood Laura M.
Published: August 2005

The short form of the Conners-Wells Adolescent Self-Report Scale (CASS:Short) is administered to 319 children and 844 adolescents to investigate whether the instrument can be used with respondents under the age of 12. Mothers of all respondents are asked to rate each child using a measure designed to assess a parallel set of problem behaviors. The factor structure of the CASS:Short is tested in both samples and is found to have good fit to the data. Mean levels ofADHDsymptomatology are also examined for possible sex and age effects, as was the relationship between parent and self-report ratings. The overall results provide empirical support for the use of the CASS:Short with children ages 7 to 11.
Investigator Ratings of ADHD Symptoms During a Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Atomoxetine: A Comparison of Parents and Teachers as Informants
Authors: Bohnstedt Bradley N. , Kronenberger William G. , Dunn David W. , Giauque Ann L. , Wood Elisabeth A. , Rembusch Mary E. , Lafata Deborah
Published: August 2005

This study compared investigator ratings of ADHD symptoms based on interviews with parents and teachers during a doubleblind, placebo-controlled study of atomoxetine. Investigators completed the ADHD Rating Scale: Investigator (ADHDRS-I) based on separate semistructured interviews with the primary caretaker and teacher of the participant. Interviews were conducted at Visits 2 to 7 during a double-blind treatment protocol comparing atomoxetine ( N= 10) and placebo ( N= 6). Both parent and teacher-based ratings were sensitive to change in ADHD symptoms with atomoxetine treatment. Parent-based assessment differentiated significantly between treatment with atomoxetine and placebo, whereas teacher-based assessment was less sensitive to change. Parents and teachers showed good agreement on change in ADHDRS-I scores. Investigator ratings based on parent- and teacher-report were sensitive to change in symptoms of ADHD during treatment with atomoxetine. Despite good agreement between parent- and teacher-based ratings of symptom change, parent-based ADHD symptom ratings are more sensitive to symptom change.
Validation of Three Dimensions of Childhood Psychopathology in Young Clinic-Referred Boys
Authors: Loney Jan , Carlson Gabrielle A. , Salisbury Helen , Volpe Robert J.
Published: August 2005

Short measures of child inattention-overactivity (IO), aggression-defiance (AG), and anxiety-depression or emotionality (EM) derived through a double validation procedure are administered to mothers of 243 clinic-referred suburban New York boys between 6 and 10 years of age. Mother-rated IO is uniquely related to poor performance on cognitive and achievement tests; observed inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive behaviors in a restricted academic setting; less father education and lower family income; and most mother-reported impairments and treatment use. Mothers of high-IO boys describe themselves and their sons as having similar childhood symptoms. AG is uniquely related to child-reported disruptive behavior and sensation seeking, many measures of family conflict and negative parenting styles, and mother-reported symptom pervasiveness and number of treatments. EM is uniquely related only to poorer cognitive and achievement test performance, living with one parent, parents who considered themselves too busy, and fewer friends. Each dimension also is associated with parallel teacher-rated factors.
Should you bank on your network? Relational and positional embeddedness in the making of financial capital
Authors: Shipilov Andrew V.
Published: August 2005

This study explores the mechanisms through which relational embeddedness affects the performance of banks in syndication networks formed in the Canadian investment banking industry. I argue that banks have a choice between building embedded network ties that are overlaid with social context and arm’s-length ties that facilitate individual competition. Contrary to the arguments advanced in previous studies, I propose that maintaining a mix of arm’s-length and embedded relationships represents a disadvantageous network strategy. Such strategy not only simultaneously exposes investment banks to competition from their peers, relying primarily upon embedded or arm’s-length ties, but also sends confusing signals about banks’ networking behavior. I also propose that the link between relational embeddedness and performance is moderated by banks’ positional embeddedness, reflected in their status, and find that banks of higher status extract greater benefits from maintaining embedded ties, as compared with banks of lower status.
Randomized Phase III Study of Docetaxel Compared With Paclitaxel in Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Jones S.E. , Erban J. , Overmoyer B. , Budd G.T. , Hutchins L. , Lower E. , Laufman L. , Sundaram S. , Urba W.J. , Pritchard K.I. , Mennel R. , Richards D. , Olsen S. , Meyers M.L. , Ravdin P.M.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

This randomized, controlled, multicenter, open-label, phase III study compared docetaxel versus paclitaxel in patients with advanced breast cancer that had progressed after an anthracycline-containing chemotherapy regimen.

Patients and Methods

Patients (n = 449) were randomly assigned to receive either docetaxel 100 mg/m2 (n = 225) or paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 (n = 224) on day 1, every 21 days until tumor progression, unacceptable toxicity, or withdrawal of consent.

Results

In the intent-to-treat population, both the median overall survival (OS, 15.4 v 12.7 months; hazard ratio [HR], 1.41; 95% CI, 1.15 to 1.73; P = .03) and the median time to progression (TTP, 5.7 months v 3.6 months; HR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.33 to 2.02; P < .0001) for docetaxel were significantly longer than for paclitaxel, and the overall response rate (ORR, 32% v 25%; P = .10) was higher for docetaxel. These results were confirmed by multivariate analyses. The incidence of treatment-related hematologic and nonhematologic toxicities was greater for docetaxel than for paclitaxel; however, quality-of-life scores were not statistically different between treatment groups over time.

Conclusion

Docetaxel was superior to paclitaxel in terms of OS and TTP. ORR was higher for docetaxel. Hematologic and nonhematologic toxicities occurred more frequently in the docetaxel group. The global quality-of-life scores were similar for both agents over time.
Prevalence and Correlates of Fatigue in Long-Term Survivors of Childhood Leukemia
Authors: Meeske Kathleen A. , Siegel Stuart E. , Globe Denise R. , Mack Wendy J. , Bernstein Leslie
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To estimate the prevalence of fatigue, identify the factors associated with fatigue, and to explore the relationship between fatigue and quality of life (QOL) in long-term survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Methods

One hundred sixty-one ALL survivors diagnosed at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) before age 18 years and between January 1, 1975 and December 31, 1995, participated in a structured telephone interview. Participants were aged 18 to 41 years and off treatment for an average of 14 years. Four measures of fatigue, including the Revised–Piper Fatigue Scale, were used to assess fatigue; depression was assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. Multivariate logistic regression models were developed to identify factors associated with fatigue and depression.

Results

Prevalence of fatigue (30%) fell within the general population normal limits. Fatigue and depression were highly correlated (Pearson r = 0.75). Fatigue was associated with marriage (OR = 0.11; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.50), having children (OR = 5.80; 95% CI, 1.30 to 25.82), sleep disturbances (OR = 6.15; 95% CI, 2.33 to 16.22), pain (OR = 5.56; 95% CI, 2.13 to 14.48), obesity (OR = 3.80; 95% CI, 1.41 to 10.26), cognitive impairment (OR = 2.56; 95% CI, 1.02 to 6.38), and exercise-induced symptoms (OR = 2.98; 95% CI, 1.11 to 8.02). Four factors associated with fatigue were also associated with depression: sleep disturbances, pain, obesity, and cognitive impairment. Fatigue was inversely related to QOL.

Conclusion

Some survivors of childhood ALL experience fatigue many years after treatment. Fatigued survivors represent a high-risk subgroup as they report more depression and poorer QOL than nonfatigued survivors and their peers.
Screening for Familial Ovarian Cancer: Failure of Current Protocols to Detect Ovarian Cancer at an Early Stage According to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics System
Authors: Stirling Diane , Evans D. Gareth R. , Pichert Gabriella , Shenton Andrew , Kirk Elaine N. , Rimmer Sylvia , Steel C. Michael , Lawson Sheila , Busby-Earle R.M. Camille , Walker Jane , Lalloo Fiona I. , Eccles Diana M. , Lucassen Anneke M. , Porteous Mary E.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To assess the effectiveness of annual ovarian cancer screening (transvaginal ultrasound and serum CA-125 estimation) in detecting presymptomatic ovarian cancer in women at increased genetic risk.

Patients and Methods

A cohort of 1,110 women at increased risk of ovarian cancer were screened between January 1991 and March 2004; 553 were moderate-risk individuals (4% to 10% lifetime risk) and 557 were high-risk individuals (> 10% lifetime risk). Outcome measurements include the number and stage of screen-detected cancers, the number and stage of cancers not detected at screening, the number of equivocal screening results requiring recall/repetition, and the number of women undergoing surgery for benign disease.

Results

Thirteen epithelial ovarian malignancies (12 invasive and one borderline), developed in the cohort. Ten tumors were detected at screening: three International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage I (including borderline), two stage II, four stage III, and one stage IV. Of the three cancers not detected by screening, two were stage III and one was stage IV; 29 women underwent diagnostic surgery but were found not to have ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

Annual surveillance by transvaginal ultrasound scanning and serum CA-125 measurement in women at increased familial risk of ovarian cancer is ineffective in detecting tumors at a sufficiently early stage to influence prognosis. With a positive predictive value of 17% and a sensitivity of less than 50%, the performance of ultrasound does not satisfy the WHO screening standards. In addition, the combined protocol has a particularly high false-positive rate in premenopausal women, leading to unnecessary surgical intervention.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Expression in Pretreatment Biopsies From Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma As a Predictive Factor for a Benefit From Accelerated Radiation Therapy in a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bentzen Søren M. , Atasoy Beste M. , Daley Frances M. , Dische Stanley , Richman Paul I. , Saunders Michele I. , Trott Klaus R. , Wilson George D.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Accelerated repopulation is a main reason for locoregional failure after fractionated radiotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a key controller of cellular proliferation in HNSCC, which stimulated the current study to look for a direct link between EGFR status and a possible clinical advantage of accelerated radiotherapy.

Patients and Methods

Immunohistochemical staining for EGFR was performed in 304 patients with available pretreatment tumor biopsy material among 918 patients randomized to receive continuous hyperfractionated accelerated radiotherapy versus conventionally fractionated radiotherapy. The EGFR index was estimated as the proportion of tumor cells with EGFR membrane staining.

Results

Significant benefit in locoregional tumor control from continuous hyperfractionated accelerated radiotherapy was seen in patients with HNSCC with high EGFR expression (2P = .010) but not in those with low EGFR expression (2P = .85). EGFR status had no significant effect on survival or rate of distant metastases. The EGFR index was significantly associated with histologic grade and microvessel density. There was moderate support for an association between EGFR status and subsite within the head and neck region but no significant association with Ki-67 index, Ki-67 pattern, p53 index, p53 intensity, bcl-2 expression, or cyclin D1 index.

Conclusion

This study indicates a key role for the EGFR receptor in determining the proliferative cellular response to fractionated radiotherapy in HNSCC. It also shows that we can select the dose-fractionation regime that has the greatest chance of benefiting the patient. These results also encourage further development of EGFR targeting combined with fractionated radiotherapy in HNSCC.
Immunomonitoring Tumor-Specific T Cells in Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity Skin Biopsies After Dendritic Cell Vaccination Correlates With Clinical Outcome
Authors: de Vries I. Jolanda M. , Bernsen Monique R. , Lesterhuis W. Joost , Scharenborg Nicole M. , Strijk Simon P. , Gerritsen Marie-Jeanne P. , Ruiter Dirk J. , Figdor Carl G. , Punt Cornelis J.A. , Adema Gosse J.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Tumor-specific immunomonitoring is essential to evaluate the efficacy of vaccination against cancer. In this study, we investigated the predictive value of the presence or absence of antigen-specific T cells in biopsies from delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) sites.

Patients and Methods

In our ongoing clinical trials, HLA-A2.1+ melanoma patients were vaccinated with mature dendritic cells (DC) pulsed with melanoma-associated peptides (gp100 and tyrosinase) and keyhole limpet hemocyanin.

Results

After intradermal administration of a DTH challenge with gp100- and tyrosinase peptide-loaded DC, essentially all patients showed a positive induration. In clinically responding patients, T cells specific for the antigen preferentially accumulated in the DTH site, as visualized by in situ tetramer staining. Furthermore, significant numbers of functional gp100 and tyrosinase tetramer-positive T cells could be isolated from these DTH biopsies, in accordance with the applied antigen in the DTH challenge. We observed a direct correlation between the presence of DC vaccine-related T cells in the DTH biopsies of stage IV melanoma patients and a positive clinical outcome (P = .0012).

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate the potency of this novel approach in the monitoring of vaccination studies in cancer patients.
Swedish Rectal Cancer Trial: Long Lasting Benefits From Radiotherapy on Survival and Local Recurrence Rate
Authors: Folkesson Joakim , Birgisson Helgi , Pahlman Lars , Cedermark Bjorn , Glimelius Bengt , Gunnarsson Ulf
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To evaluate the long-term effects on survival and recurrence rates of preoperative radiotherapy in the treatment of curatively operated rectal cancer patients.

Patients and Methods

Of 1,168 randomly assigned patients in the Swedish Rectal Cancer Trial between 1987 and 1990, 908 had curative surgery; 454 of these patients had surgery alone, and 454 were administered preoperative radiotherapy (25 Gy in 5 days) followed by surgery within 1 week. Follow-up was performed by matching against three Swedish nationwide registries (the Swedish Cancer Register, the Hospital Discharge Register, and the Cause of Death Register).

Results

Median follow-up time was 13 years (range, 3 to 15 years). The overall survival rate in the irradiated group was 38% v 30% in the nonirradiated group (P = .008). The cancer-specific survival rate in the irradiated group was 72% v 62% in the nonirradiated group (P = .03), and the local recurrence rate was 9% v 26% (P < .001), respectively. The reduction of local recurrence rates was observed at all tumor heights, although it was not statistically significant for tumors greater than 10 cm from the anal verge.

Conclusion

Preoperative radiotherapy with 25 Gy in 1 week before curative surgery for rectal cancer is beneficial for overall and cancer-specific survival and local recurrence rates after long-term follow-up.
Increasing Incidence of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors Among Black Men in the United States
Authors: McGlynn Katherine A. , Devesa Susan S. , Graubard Barry I. , Castle Philip E.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

There has been marked disparity in the incidence of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) among white and black men for a number of decades in the United States. Since at least the beginning of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program in 1973, incidence rates among white men have been five times higher than rates among black men. In addition, rates among white men have been increasing, whereas rates among black men have remained stable. However, a recent examination of ethnic-specific rates suggested that the incidence among black men may have begun to change in the 1990s.

Patients and Methods

TGCT incidence data from nine registries of the SEER Program were analyzed for the years 1973 to 2001. Trends were examined separately for seminoma and nonseminoma.

Results

Analyses found that the incidence of TGCT began to increase among black men between the 1988 to 1992 and 1993 to 1997 periods. Before that time, incidence among black men had decreased by 14.8%. Between 1988 to 1992 and 1998 to 2001, however, the incidence increased by 100%, with the incidence of seminoma increasing twice as much (124.4%) as the incidence of nonseminoma (64.3%). Over the 29-year time period, there was no evidence of a change in the proportion of tumors diagnosed at earlier stages among black men. In contrast, the proportion of tumors diagnosed at localized stages significantly increased among white men.

Conclusion

The incidence of TGCT among black men has increased since 1988 to 1992. Although the reasons for this increase are unclear, screening and earlier diagnosis of TGCT do not seem to be factors.
Dignity Therapy: A Novel Psychotherapeutic Intervention for Patients Near the End of Life
Authors: Chochinov Harvey Max , Hack Thomas , Hassard Thomas , Kristjanson Linda J. , McClement Susan , Harlos Mike
Published: August 2005

Purpose

This study examined a novel intervention, dignity therapy, designed to address psychosocial and existential distress among terminally ill patients. Dignity therapy invites patients to discuss issues that matter most or that they would most want remembered. Sessions are transcribed and edited, with a returned final version that they can bequeath to a friend or family member. The objective of this study was to establish the feasibility of dignity therapy and determine its impact on various measures of psychosocial and existential distress.

Patients and Methods

Terminally ill inpatients and those receiving home-based palliative care services in Winnipeg, Canada, and Perth, Australia, were asked to complete pre- and postintervention measures of sense of dignity, depression, suffering, and hopelessness; sense of purpose, sense of meaning, desire for death, will to live, and suicidality; and a postintervention satisfaction survey.

Results

Ninety-one percent of participants reported being satisfied with dignity therapy; 76% reported a heightened sense of dignity; 68% reported an increased sense of purpose; 67% reported a heightened sense of meaning; 47% reported an increased will to live; and 81% reported that it had been or would be of help to their family. Postintervention measures of suffering showed significant improvement (P = .023) and reduced depressive symptoms (P = .05). Finding dignity therapy helpful to their family correlated with life feeling more meaningful (r = 0.480; P = .000) and having a sense of purpose (r = 0.562; P = .000), accompanied by a lessened sense of suffering (r = 0.327; P = .001) and increased will to live (r = 0.387; P = .000).

Conclusion

Dignity therapy shows promise as a novel therapeutic intervention for suffering and distress at the end of life.
Circulating CD34+, CD133+, and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2–Positive Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Myelofibrosis With Myeloid Metaplasia
Authors: Massa Margherita , Rosti Vittorio , Ramajoli Isabella , Campanelli Rita , Pecci Alessandro , Viarengo Gianluca , Meli Valentina , Marchetti Monia , Hoffman Ronald , Barosi Giovanni
Published: August 2005

Purpose

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are present in circulation and contribute to vasculogenesis in adults. We measured the number of circulating EPCs in patients with myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia (MMM), and we examined the relationship between the number of EPCs and severity of the MMM disease process.

Patients and Methods

The number of EPCs was measured by assaying the CD34+CD133+ vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) –positive cell phenotype in 110 MMM patients, 16 patients with other Philadelphia-negative chronic myeloproliferative disorders (Ph-negative CMPDs), and 14 healthy participants. In four MMM patients, the capacity of selected CD34+ cells to form endothelial colonies (CFU-End) in vitro was tested.

Results

CD34+, CD133+, and VEGFR2-positive EPCs were detectable in unselected peripheral-blood cells of 50.9% MMM patients, 37.5% control patients, and 21% healthy participants. Patients with MMM had a median of 0.26% EPCs, significantly higher than that in healthy controls (median, 0%) and in patients with other Ph-negative CMPDs (median, 0.1%). In 14.5% of MMM patients, the numbers of EPCs were greater than the highest value found in patients with other Ph-negative CMPDs. CD34+ selected cells produced colony-forming unit–endothelial (CFU-End), which were vascular endothelial (VE) -cadherin positive, CD31+, von Willebrand factor positive, and CD45−. In MMM patients, the larger the number of EPCs, the smaller the number of circulating immature myeloid cells and circulating CD45+CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells. Increased numbers of EPCs were associated with younger age and a diagnosis of prefibrotic MMM.

Conclusion

Circulating EPCs are elevated in MMM patients in the early stage of the disease. Heightened mobilization of EPCs may represent an important mechanism for development of neoangiogenesis in MMM.
Profile of Daily Life in Children With Brain Tumors: An Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life
Authors: Bhat Sundeep R. , Goodwin Tress L. , Burwinkle Tasha M. , Lansdale Meagan F. , Dahl Gary V. , Huhn Stephen L. , Gibbs Iris C. , Donaldson Sarah S. , Rosenblum Ruth K. , Varni James W. , Fisher Paul G.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

The survival of children with CNS tumors approaches 70%, yet health-related quality of life (HRQOL) has not been investigated rigorously in this population. We aimed to show that universal assessment of HRQOL could be obtained easily by using the PedsQL 4.0 and to provide a composite profile of their daily lives.

Patients and Methods

The PedsQL was administered to all patients seen in the neuro-oncology clinic at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital (Palo Alto, CA) from December 2001, to September 2002. Patients were compared with healthy controls by using two-sided t tests to evaluate statistically significant differences.

Results

One hundred thirty-four patients (73 male; mean age ± standard deviation, 11.8 ± 5.4 years; 55 had low-grade glioma, 32 had medulloblastoma/primitive neuroectodermal tumor/embryonal tumor, 17 had malignant astrocytoma, nine had germ-cell tumor, and 21 had other types of tumors) were assessed, each in less than 20 minutes. Scores on both child and parent-proxy reports for the total HRQOL, psychosocial, physical, emotional, social, and school-functioning scales were all significantly lower than controls (P < .01). Patients with low-grade glioma were reported to have the highest total HRQOL. Children receiving radiation therapy (XRT) but no chemotherapy had significantly lower total, psychosocial, emotional, and social functioning than those receiving other treatments, including XRT plus chemotherapy.

Conclusion

The PedsQL can be used to assess HRQOL rapidly and easily in children with CNS tumors, who have significantly worse HRQOL than healthy children. Children receiving XRT fare worse overall; chemotherapy added to XRT does not seem to worsen HRQOL. Assessment of HRQOL should be included as an outcome in future clinical trials.
Abbreviated Chemotherapy With Fludarabine Followed by Tositumomab and Iodine I 131 Tositumomab for Untreated Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Leonard John P. , Coleman Morton , Kostakoglu Lale , Chadburn Amy , Cesarman Ethel , Furman Richard R. , Schuster Michael W. , Niesvizky Ruben , Muss Daniel , Fiore Jennifer , Kroll Stewart , Tidmarsh George , Vallabhajosula Shankar , Goldsmith Stanley J.
Published: August 2005

Purpose

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a sequential chemotherapy plus radioimmunotherapy (RIT) regimen in previously untreated follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Patients and Methods

Thirty-five patients received an abbreviated course (three cycles) of fludarabine followed 6 to 8 weeks later by tositumomab and iodine I 131 tositumomab.

Results

After fludarabine, 31 (89%) of 35 patients responded, with three (9%) of 31 patients achieving a complete response (CR). After the full regimen of fludarabine and iodine I 131 tositumomab, all 35 patients responded; 30 (86%) of 35 patients achieved CR, and five (14%) of 35 achieved partial response. After a median follow-up of 58 months, the median progression-free survival (PFS) had not been reached (95% CI, 27 months to not reached), but it will be at least 48 months. The 5-year estimated PFS rate is 60%. Baseline Follicular Lymphoma International Prognostic Index (FLIPI) was significantly associated (P = .003) with PFS. Five of six patients with more than 25% bone marrow involvement at baseline achieved adequate bone marrow cytoreduction to receive standard-dose iodine I 131 tositumomab. Ten (77%) of 13 patients with baseline bone marrow Bcl-2 positivity demonstrated molecular remissions at month 12. Toxicities were manageable and principally hematologic. Two (6%) of 35 patients developed human antimurine antibodies (HAMA) after RIT.

Conclusion

Use of abbreviated fludarabine before iodine I 131 tositumomab can reduce bone marrow involvement, when needed, to allow the use of RIT and can suppress HAMA responses. This sequential treatment regimen is highly effective as front-line therapy for follicular lymphoma, particularly for low- or intermediate-risk FLIPI patients.
Auxin response factors ARF6 and ARF8 promote jasmonic acid production and flower maturation
Authors: Nagpal Punita , Ellis Christine M. , Weber Hans , Ploense Sara E. , Barkawi Lana S. , Guilfoyle Thomas J. , Hagen Gretchen , Alonso José M. , Cohen Jerry D. , Farmer Edward E. , Ecker Joseph R. , Reed Jason W.
Published: August 2005

Pollination in flowering plants requires that anthers release pollen when the gynoecium is competent to support fertilization. We show that in Arabidopsis thaliana, two paralogous auxin response transcription factors, ARF6 and ARF8, regulate both stamen and gynoecium maturation. arf6 arf8 double-null mutant flowers arrested as infertile closed buds with short petals, short stamen filaments, undehisced anthers that did not release pollen and immature gynoecia. Numerous developmentally regulated genes failed to be induced. ARF6 and ARF8 thus coordinate the transition from immature to mature fertile flowers. Jasmonic acid (JA) measurements and JA feeding experiments showed that decreased jasmonate production caused the block in pollen release, but not the gynoecium arrest. The double mutant had altered auxin responsive gene expression. However, whole flower auxin levels did not change during flower maturation, suggesting that auxin might regulate flower maturation only under specific environmental conditions, or in localized organs or tissues of flowers. arf6 and arf8 single mutants and sesquimutants (homozygous for one mutation and heterozygous for the other) had delayed stamen development and decreased fecundity, indicating that ARF6 and ARF8 gene dosage affects timing of flower maturation quantitatively.
The HMX homeodomain protein MLS-2 regulates cleavage orientation, cell proliferation and cell fate specification in theC. eleganspostembryonic mesoderm
Authors: Jiang Yuan , Horner Vanessa , Liu Jun
Published: August 2005

The proper formation of a complex multicellular organism requires the precise coordination of many cellular events, including cell proliferation,cell fate specification and differentiation. The C. eleganspostembryonic mesodermal lineage, the M lineage, allows us to study mechanisms coordinating these events at single cell resolution. We have identified an HMX homeodomain protein MLS-2 in a screen for factors required for M lineage patterning. The MLS-2 protein is present in nuclei of undifferentiated cells in the early M lineage and in a subset of head neurons. In the M lineage,MLS-2 activity appears to be tightly regulated at the fourth round of cell division, coincident with the transition from proliferation to differentiation. A predicted null allele of mls-2, cc615,causes reduced cell proliferation in the M lineage, whereas a semi-dominant,gain-of-function allele, tm252, results in increased cell proliferation. Loss or overexpression of mls-2 also affects cleavage orientation and cell fate specification in the M lineage. We show that the increased cell proliferation in mls-2(tm252) mutants requires CYE-1,a G1 cell cycle regulator. Furthermore, the C. elegans Myod homolog HLH-1 acts downstream of mls-2 to specify M-derived coelomocyte cell fates. Thus MLS-2 functions in a cell type-specific manner to regulate both cell proliferation and cell fate specification.
Mosquito natriuretic peptide identified as a calcitonin-like diuretic hormone inAnopheles gambiae(Giles)
Authors: Coast Geoffrey M. , Garside Christopher S. , Webster Simon G. , Schegg Kathleen M. , Schooley David A.
Published: August 2005

Mosquito natriuretic peptide (MNP), an uncharacterised peptide from the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, acts via cyclic AMP to stimulate secretion of Na+-rich urine by opening a Na+ conductance in the basolateral membrane of Malpighian tubule principal cells. Corticotropin releasing factor (CRF)-related peptides and calcitonin (CT)-like diuretic peptides use cyclic AMP as a second messenger and were therefore considered likely candidates for MNP. BLAST searches of the genome of the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae, gave sequences for the CRF-related peptide Anoga-DH44 and the CT-like peptide Anoga-DH31, which were synthesised and tested for effects on Malpighian tubules from An. gambiae and Ae. aegypti,together with 8-bromo-cyclic AMP.

The cyclic AMP analogue stimulated secretion of Na+-rich urine by An. gambiae Malpighian tubules, reproducing the response to MNP in Ae. aegypti. It also depolarised the principal cell basolateral membrane voltage (Vb) while hyperpolarising the transepithelial voltage (Vt) to a similar extent.

Anoga-DH44 and Anoga-DH31 stimulated production of cyclic AMP, but not cyclic GMP, by Malpighian tubules of An. gambiae. Both peptides had diuretic activity, but only Anoga-DH31 had natriuretic activity and stimulated fluid secretion to the same extent as 8-bromo-cyclic AMP. Likewise, Anoga-DH31 reproduced the effects of cyclic AMP on tubule electrophysiology, whereas Anoga-DH44initially hyperpolarised Vb and depolarised Vt, which is the opposite of the effect of Anoga-DH31.

Anoga-DH44 and Anoga-DH31 were also tested for effects on fluid secretion and ion transport by Ae. aegypti tubules. As in An. gambiae, the CRF-related peptide Anoga-DH44 had a non-specific effect on the transport of Na+ and K+,whereas the CT-like peptide Anoga-DH31 specifically stimulated transepithelial Na+ transport.

We conclude that the CT-like peptide Anoga-DH31 is the previously uncharacterised mosquito natriuretic peptide.
Muscle fiber angle, segment bulging and architectural gear ratio in segmented musculature
Authors: Brainerd Elizabeth L. , Azizi Emanuel
Published: August 2005

The anatomical complexity of myomeres and myosepta has made it difficult to develop a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between muscle fiber architecture, connective tissue mechanics, and locomotor function of segmented axial musculature in fishes. The lateral hypaxial musculature (LHM) of salamanders is less anatomically complex and therefore a good system for exploring the basic mechanics of segmented musculature. Here, we derive a mathematical model of the LHM and test our model using sonomicrometry and electromyography during steady swimming in an aquatic salamander, Siren lacertina. The model predicts longitudinal segment strain well, with predicted and measured values differing by less than 5% strain over most of the range. Deviations between predicted and measured results are unbiased and probably result from the salamanders performing slight turns with associated body torsion in our unconstrained trackway swimming experiments. Model simulations of muscle fiber contraction and segment shortening indicate that longitudinal segment strain, for a given amount of muscle fiber strain,increases with increasing initial fiber angle. This increase in architectural gear ratio (AGR = longitudinal strain/fiber strain) is mediated by muscle fiber rotation; the higher the initial fiber angle, the more the fibers rotate during contraction and the higher the AGR. Muscle fiber rotation is additionally impacted by bulging in the dorsoventral (DV) and/or mediolateral(ML) dimensions during longitudinal segment shortening. In segments with obliquely oriented muscle fibers, DV bulging increases muscle fiber rotation,thereby increasing the AGR. Extending the model to include force and work indicates that force decreases with increasing initial muscle fiber angle and increasing DV bulging and that both longitudinal shortening and DV bulging must be included for accurate calculation of segment work.