bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dimensions of Culture Care for Substance-Dependent African American Women
Authors: Ehrmin Joanne T.
Published: March 2005

Substance abuse, now in epidemic proportions in many cultures, is of major concern nationally and transculturally. It is important for nurses and other health care providers working with an increasingly multiculturally diverse client population to understand the cultural implications of caring for clients with alcohol and drug dependence. The purpose of this ethnonursing research study was to discover meanings and expressions of care for substance-dependent African American women in the research context of an inner-city transitional home. A convenience sample of 12 key and 18 general participants was included in this study. The study was conceptualized within Leininger’s culture care theory. Ethnonursing techniques of participant observation and focused in-depth interviews were used to collect data. Results included four universal care themes discovered in this study. Gender/cultural-specific care needs in relation to social structure, ethnohistory, and cultural context were discovered to influence the women’s health/well-being as they moved through recovery.
‘The Ghost Pushes You Down’: Sleep Paralysis-Type Panic Attacks in a Khmer Refugee Population
Authors: Hinton Devon E. , Pich Vuth , Chhean Dara , Pollack Mark H.
Published: March 2005

Among a psychiatric population of Cambodian refugees ( N = 100), 42% had current - i.e. at least once in the last year - sleep paralysis (SP). Of those experiencing SP, 91% (38/42) had visual hallucinations of an approaching being, and 100% (42/42) had panic attacks. Among patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD; n = 45), 67% (30/45) had SP, whereas among those without PTSD, only 22.4% (11/45) had SP (χ2 = 20.4, p < .001). Of the patients with PTSD, 60% (27/45) had monthly episodes of SP. The Cambodian panic response to SP seems to be greatly heightened by elaborate cultural ideas - with SP generating concerns about physical status, ‘good luck’ status,‘bad luck’ status, sorcery assault, and ghost assault - and by trauma associations to the figure seen in SP. Case vignettes illustrate cultural beliefs about, and trauma resonances of, SP. A model to explain the high rate of SP in this population is presented. SP is a core aspect of the Cambodian refugees response to trauma; when assessing Cambodian refugees, and traumatized refugees in general, clinicians should assess for its presence.
Inuit Interpretations of Sleep Paralysis
Authors: Law Samuel , Kirmayer Laurence J.
Published: March 2005

Traditional and contemporary Inuit concepts of sleep paralysis were investigated through interviews with elders and young people in Iqaluit, Baffin Island. Sleep paralysis was readily recognized by most respondents and termed uqumangirniq (in the Baffin region) or aqtuqsinniq (Kivalliq region). Traditional interpretations of uqumangirniq referred to a shamanistic cosmology in which the individual’s soul was vulnerable during sleep and dreaming. Sleep paralysis could result from attack by shamans or malevolent spirits. Understanding the experience as a manifestation of supernatural power, beyond one’s control, served to reinforce the experiential reality and presence of the spirit world. For contemporary youth, sleep paralysis was interpreted in terms of multiple frameworks that incorporated personal, medical, mystical, traditional/shamanistic, and Christian views, reflecting the dynamic social changes taking place in this region.
Sleep Paralysis in African Americans with Panic Disorder
Authors: Paradis Cheryl M. , Friedman Steven
Published: March 2005

Studies have reported a wide range in lifetime prevalence of sleep paralysis (SP). This variation may stem from cultural factors, stressful life events and genetic differences in studied populations. We found that recurrent SP was more common among African-American participants, especially those with panic disorder. Recurrent SP was reported by 59% of African Americans with panic disorder, 7% of whites with panic disorder, 23% of African-American community volunteers and 6% of white community volunteers. Significantly more early life stressors were reported by African Americans than whites. Higher levels of psychosocial stressors, including poverty, racism and acculturation, may contribute to the higher rates of SP experienced by African Americans.
Prevalence and Illness Beliefs of Sleep Paralysis among Chinese Psychiatric Patients in China and the United States
Authors: Yeung Albert , Xu Yong , Chang Doris F.
Published: March 2005

To investigate the prevalence and illness beliefs of sleep paralysis (SP) among Chinese patients in a psychiatric out-patient clinic, consecutive Chinese/Chinese-American patients who attended psychiatric out-patient clinics in Boston and Shanghai were asked about their lifetime prevalence, personal experience and perceptions regarding the causes, precipitating factors, consequences, and help-seeking of SP. During the 4-month study period, 42 non-psychotic psychiatric out-patients from the Boston site and 150 patients from the Shanghai site were interviewed. The prevalence of SP was found to be 26.2% in Boston and 23.3% in Shanghai. Patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or panic disorder reported a higher prevalence of SP than did patients without these disorders. Patients attributed SP to fatigue, stress, and other psychosocial factors. Although the experience has traditionally been labeled ‘ghost oppression’ among the Chinese, only two patients, one from each site, endorsed supernatural causes of their SP. Sleep paralysis is common among Chinese psychiatric out-patients. The endorsement of supernatural explanations for SP is rare among contemporary Chinese patients.
The International Context for Research in Educational Leadership
Authors: Mulford Bill
Published: March 2005

This overview of some aspects of the environment shaping the direction and nature of research in educational leadership in Australia, the USA and the UK commences by outlining a number of broad societal pressures, moves to the more specific international and national governmental reviews of educational research and some responses to these reviews, and finally outlines some researchers’ attempts to define the research agenda for themselves. While the societal pressures and processes employed by governments to review education and its research are similar in each country, the outcome is quite different. From the most centralized UK system we find increased attention being paid to, and funding being provided for, educational research, but only in areas that focus on government-defined policy and practice. In the less centralized Australian system there has been less attention to, and funding for, educational research. Finally, in the least centralized US system, and despite increased federal intervention, in relative terms a thousand research flowers continue to bloom and be funded. The article concludes by noting some commonalities across these societal, governmental and professional contexts.
Balance between NF-κB and JNK/AP-1 activity controls dendritic cell life and death
Authors: Kriehuber Ernst , Bauer Wolfgang , Charbonnier Anne-Sophie , Winter Dorian , Amatschek Stefan , Tamandl Dietmar , Schweifer Norbert , Stingl Georg , Maurer Dieter
Published: March 2005

The life cycle of dendritic cells (DCs) must be precisely regulated for proper functioning of adaptive immunity. However, signaling pathways actively mediating DC death remain enigmatic. Here we describe a novel mechanism of hierarchical transcriptional control of DC life and death. Ligation of tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFR-SF) members on DCs and cognate contact with T cells resulted in quantitatively balanced nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)–mediated activator protein-1 (AP-1) induction and strongly enhanced DC longevity. Specific blockade of NF-κB in DCs induced strongly augmented JNK/AP-1 activity because of elevated levels of reactive oxygen species. In this scenario, DC activation by TNFR-SF members or T cells induced DC apoptosis. Specific inhibition of JNK/AP-1 rescued DCs from this activation-induced cell death program and restored TNFR-SF member- and T-cell–mediated survival. We conclude that JNK/AP-1 activity is under negative feedback control of NF-κB and can execute apoptosis in DCs. Thus, feedback-controlled signaling amplitudes of 2 transcriptional pathways decide the fate of a DC.
Automatic detection of false annotations via binary property clustering
Authors: Kaplan Noam , Linial Michal
Published: March 2005

Background

Computational protein annotation methods occasionally introduce errors. False-positive (FP) errors are annotations that are mistakenly associated with a protein. Such false annotations introduce errors that may spread into databases through similarity with other proteins. Generally, methods used to minimize the chance for FPs result in decreased sensitivity or low throughput. We present a novel protein-clustering method that enables automatic separation of FP from true hits. The method quantifies the biological similarity between pairs of proteins by examining each protein's annotations, and then proceeds by clustering sets of proteins that received similar annotation into biological groups.

Results

Using a test set of all PROSITE signatures that are marked as FPs, we show that the method successfully separates FPs in 69% of the 327 test cases supplied by PROSITE. Furthermore, we constructed an extensive random FP simulation test and show a high degree of success in detecting FP, indicating that the method is not specifically tuned for PROSITE and performs well on larger scales. We also suggest some means of predicting in which cases this approach would be successful.

Conclusion

Automatic detection of FPs may greatly facilitate the manual validation process and increase annotation sensitivity. With the increasing number of automatic annotations, the tendency of biological properties to be clustered, once a biological similarity measure is introduced, may become exceedingly helpful in the development of such automatic methods.
Design of the BiRmingham Early Detection In untREated psyChosis Trial (REDIRECT): cluster randomised controlled trial of general practitioner education in detection of first episode psychosis [ISRCTN87898421]
Authors: Tait Lynda , Lester Helen , Birchwood Max , Freemantle Nick , Wilson Sue
Published: March 2005

Background

Treatment delay in first episode psychosis is common. As general practitioners are the first point of contact for many individuals with first episode psychosis, they are well placed to detect the early symptoms and make urgent referrals to specialist secondary care services. However, early psychosis is often difficult to detect. The primary objective of the Redirect trial is to estimate whether an educational intervention targeted at general practitioners increases the general practitioner referral rate of young people with first episode psychosis to Early Intervention Services.

Methods/design

This paper describes the design of a stratified-cluster randomised controlled trial of an educational intervention on first episode psychosis in primary care. The primary outcome is the number of general practitioner referrals of young people with first episode psychosis to Early Intervention Services. Secondary outcomes are duration of untreated psychosis, time to recovery, use of the Mental Health Act, and general practitioner consultation rate. Young people with first episode psychosis referred to Early Intervention Services will be recruited over a two-year period from 1 March 2004. Seventy-eight out of 89 eligible general practices were recruited. The educational intervention has been implemented and evaluated by general practitioners. The education was well received and considered relevant to clinical practice by the general practitioners.

Discussion

The results suggest that the recruitment strategy and implementation of the educational intervention are feasible and acceptable in a primary care setting. The Redirect trial will provide robust information about the efficacy of an evidence-based complex educational intervention targeted at general practitioners on referral rates of young people with first episode psychosis to Early Intervention Services.
Pattern of neuropsychological impairment in the early phase of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Olivares T , Nieto A , Sánchez M P , Wollmann T , Hernández M A , Barroso J
Published: March 2005

To investigate the neuropsychological profile in the first few years post-onset of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) we carried out a comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation of 33 patients characterized by very short evolution of this disease, minimal levels of neurological disability and preserved general cognition. Thirty-three individually pair-matched controls were also evaluated. Patients performed as well as controls on many of the cognitive exploration measures. Nevertheless, the group of patients evinced a general slowness that affected motor execution and cognitive processing. Memory functions were characterized by preservation of working memory, retrieval or storage of information and a deficit at the acquisition phase in (verbal and visual) supraspan tasks. In addition, significant correlations were observed between some measures of information processing speed and memory. These results highlight the importance of studying cognitive deficits not only in the different subtypes of MS but also in different phases of the disease.
Brain atrophy and magnetization transfer ratio following methylprednisolone in multiple sclerosis: short-term changes and long-term implications
Authors: Fox Robert J , Fisher Elizabeth , Tkach Jean , Lee Jar-Chi , Cohen Jeffrey A , Rudick Richard A
Published: March 2005

Background: The short-term effect of corticosteroids on MRI measures of multiple sclerosis (MS) is not well understood and may have a significant impact when using these quantitative measures to evaluate disease activity and changes following other therapeutic interventions. Objective: To determine the impact of a course of intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) on quantitative measures of disease activity and tissue injury in MS patients. Methods: We prospectively measured brain parenchymal fraction (BPF), magnetization transfer ratio (MTR, lesional and whole brain), and lesion volumes on nine weekly brain MRI studies in ten MS patients receiving a course of IVMP. A group of nine MS patients not receiving IVMP served as controls. Results: In comparison to untreated controls, BPF declined over the eight weeks following IVMP treatment (P<0.02). BPF decline was most prominent in patients with secondary progressive MS (SPMS, P<0.03), and was not seen in relapsing-remitting (RR) MS patients. Short-term change in BPF correlated with baseline BPF (r=0.62, P=0.05) and short-term change in lesional MTR (r=-0.55, P=0.03), but not with change in enhancing lesion volume. Short-term change in lesional MTR inversely correlated with baseline lesional and whole brain MTR (r=-0.79, P=0.04 for both). There was no significant difference between treated and control patients in measures of MTR or T2, T1 or enhancing lesion volumes. Conclusions: Patients with SPMS showed a greater decline in BPF following IVMP than RRMS patients. A correlation between changes in BPF and MTR suggest that these changes are secondary to altered water content within MS lesions. Differential response to a standardized therapeutic intervention in RRMS and SPMS suggests that responses to therapy may differ due to a fundamental pathologic difference between early and late stage MS.
The relationship between depression and interferon beta-1a therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Patten Scott B , Francis Gordon , Metz Luanne M , Lopez-Bresnahan Maria , Chang Peter , Curtin Francois
Published: March 2005

It has been suggested that interferons (IFN) may cause depressionde novo or worsen pre-existing depression. Depression data collected using validated instruments from individual clinical trials in multiple sclerosis, however, have consistently failed to identify an association. In this study, pooled data from 6 controlled studies and 17 noncontrolled clinical trials of subcutaneous IFN beta-1a were assessed to determine the relationship between IFN therapy with physician reports of depression and suicide. In distinction to the negative findings for depressive symptom ratings, pooling of physician-reported side effect data from these clinical trials identified a statistically significant association between depression and IFN use during the first six months of treatment. There was an association between these reported episodes of depression and discontinuation of IFN therapy, but IFN treatment was not associated with suicide attempts. IFN β-1a may induce a constellation of symptoms, particularly early in therapy, that may be labelled as depression by physicians. However, the lack of an increase in depression-rating scale scores and the lack of association with suicide risk suggests that the syndrome may be an atypical one.
Does the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale offer a more comprehensive assessment of fatigue in MS?
Authors: Téllez N , Río J , Tintoré M , Nos C , Galán I , Montalban X
Published: March 2005

Background: As a symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), fatigue is difficult to manage because of its unknown etiology, the lack of efficacy of the drugs tested to date and the absence of consensus about which would be the ideal measure to assess fatigue. Objective: Our aim was to assess the frequency of fatigue in a sample of MS patients and healthy controls (HC) using two fatigue scales, the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) with physical, cognitive and psychosocial subscales. We also studied the relationship fatigue has with depression, disability and interferon beta. Methods: Three hundred and fifty-four individuals (231 MS patients and 123 HC) were included in this cross-sectional study. Fatigue was assessed using the FSS and MFIS. Depression was measured by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and disability by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). A status of fatigue was considered when the FSS≥ 5, of non-fatigue when the FSS≤4, and scores between 4.1 and 4.9 were considered doubtful fatigue cases. Results: Fifty-five percent of MS patients and 13% of HC were fatigued. The global MFIS score positively correlated with the FSS in MS and HC (r=0.68 for MS and r=0.59 for HC, p<0.0001). Nonetheless, the MFIS physical subscale showed the strongest correlation score with the FSS (r=0.75, p<0.0001). In addition, a prediction analysis showed the physical MFIS subscale to be the only independent predictor of FSS score (p<0.0001), suggesting other aspects of fatigue, as cognition and psychosocial functions, may be explored by the FSS to a lesser extent. Depression also correlated with fatigue (r=0.48 for the FSS and r=0.7 for the MFIS, p<0.0001) and, although EDSS correlated with fatigue as well, the scores decreased after correcting for depression. Interferon beta showed no relationship with fatigue. Conclusions: Fatigue is a frequent symptom found in MS patients and clearly related with depression. Each fatigue scale correlates with one another, indicating that they are measuring similar constructs. Nevertheless, spheres of fatigue as cognition and psychosocial functions are probably better measured by the MFIS, although this hypothesis will need to be confirmed with appropriate psychometrical testing.
Autocrine/Paracrine Role of Inflammation-Mediated Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide and Adrenomedullin Expression in Human Adipose Tissue
Authors: Linscheid Philippe , Seboek Dalma , Zulewski Henryk , Keller Ulrich , Müller Beat
Published: March 2005

Human adipose tissue is a contributor to inflammation- and sepsis-induced elevation of serum procalcitonin (ProCT). Several calcitonin (CT) peptides, including ProCT, CT gene-related peptide (CGRP), and adrenomedullin (ADM) are suspected mediators in human inflammatory diseases. Therefore, we aimed to explore the expression, interactions, and potential roles of adipocyte-derived CT peptide production. Expression of CT peptide-specific transcripts was analyzed by RT-PCR and quantitative real-time PCR in human adipose tissue biopsies and three different inflammation-challenged human adipocyte models. ProCT, CGRP, and ADM secretions were assessed by immunological methods. Adipocyte transcriptional activity, glycerol release, and insulin-mediated glucose transport were studied after exogenous CGRP and ADM exposure. With the exception of amylin, CT peptides were expressed in adipose tissue biopsies from septic patients, inflammation-activated mature explanted adipocytes, and macrophage-activated preadipocyte-derived adipocytes. ProCT and CGRP productions were significantly augmented in IL-1β and lipopolysaccharide-challenged mesenchymal stem cell-derived adipocytes but not in undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells. In contrast, ADM expression occurred before and after adipogenic differentiation. Interferon-γ coadministration inhibited IL-1β-mediated ProCT and CGRP secretion by 78 and 34%, respectively but augmented IL-1β-mediated ADM secretion by 50%. Exogenous CGRP and ADM administration induced CT, CGRP I, and CGRP II mRNAs and dose-dependently (10−10 and 10−6m) enhanced glycerol release. In contrast, no CGRP- and ADM-mediated effects were noted on ADM, TNFα, and IL-1β mRNA abundances. In summary, CGRP and ADM are two differentially regulated novel adipose tissue secretion factors exerting autocrine/paracrine roles. Their lipolytic effect (glycerol release) suggests a metabolic role in adipocytes during inflammation.
Local conditions for the stochastic comparison of particle systems
Authors: Delgado Rosario , López F. Javier , Sanz Gerardo
Published: March 2005

We study the stochastic comparison of interacting particle systems where the state space of each particle is a finite set endowed with a partial order, and several particles may change their value at a time. For these processes we give local conditions, on the rates of change, that assure their comparability. We also analyze the case where one of the processes does not have any changes that involve several particles, and obtain necessary and sufficient conditions for their comparability. The proofs are based on the explicit construction of an order-preserving Markovian coupling. We show the applicability of our results by studying the stochastic comparison of infinite-station Jackson networks and batch-arrival, batch-service, and assemble-transfer queueing networks.
Explicit Bounds for Approximation Rates of Boundary Crossing Probabilities for the Wiener Process
Authors: Borovkov K. , Novikov A.
Published: March 2005

We give explicit upper bounds for convergence rates when approximating both one- and two-sided general curvilinear boundary crossing probabilities for the Wiener process by similar probabilities for close boundaries of simpler form, for which computation of the boundary crossing probabilities is feasible. In particular, we partially generalize and improve results obtained by Pötzelberger and Wang in the case when the approximating boundaries are piecewise linear. Applications to barrier option pricing are also discussed.
Asymptotic Probabilities of an Exceedance Over Renewal Thresholds with an Application to Risk Theory
Authors: Robert Christian Y.
Published: March 2005

Let (Yn, Nn)n≥1 be independent and identically distributed bivariate random variables such that the Nn are positive with finite mean ν and the Yn have a common heavy-tailed distribution F. We consider the process (Zn)n≥1 defined by Zn = Yn - Σn-1, where It is shown that the probability that the maximum M = maxn≥1Zn exceeds x is approximately as x → ∞, where F' := 1 - F. Then we study the integrated tail of the maximum of a random walk with long-tailed increments and negative drift over the interval [0, σ], defined by some stopping time σ, in the case in which the randomly stopped sum is negative. Finally, an application to risk theory is considered.
On the Extinction of a Class of Population-Size-Dependent Bisexual Branching Processes
Authors: Xing Yongsheng , Wang Yongjin
Published: March 2005

In this paper, we study a class of bisexual Galton-Watson branching processes in which the law of offspring distribution is dependent on the population size. Under a suitable condition on the offspring distribution, we prove that the limit of mean growth-rate per mating unit exists. Based on this limit, we give a criterion to identify whether the process admits ultimate extinction with probability one.
On Finite Moments of Full Busy Periods of GI/G/c Queues
Authors: Ghahramani Saeed , Wolff Ronald W.
Published: March 2005

For a GI/G/c queue, a full busy period is an interval that begins when an arrival finds c − 1 customers in the system, and ends when, for the first time after that, a departure leaves behind c − 1 customers in the system. We present a probabilistic proof of conditions for full busy periods to have finite moments. For queues that empty, this result may be deduced from results in the literature, but our proof is much easier. For queues that do not empty, our proof still applies, and this result is new.
A Note on Branching Random Walks on Finite Sets
Authors: Mountford Thomas , Schinazi Rinaldo B.
Published: March 2005

We show that a branching random walk that is supercritical onis also supercritical, in a rather strong sense, when restricted to a large enough finite ball ofThis implies that the critical value of branching random walks on finite balls converges to the critical value of branching random walks onas the radius increases to infinity. Our main result also implies coexistence of an arbitrary finite number of species for an ecological model.
Spindle microtubules in flux
Authors: Rogers Gregory C. , Rogers Stephen L. , Sharp David J.
Published: March 2005

Accurate and timely chromosome segregation is a task performed within meiotic and mitotic cells by a specialized force-generating structure – the spindle. This micromachine is constructed from numerous proteins, most notably the filamentous microtubules that form a structural framework for the spindle and also transmit forces through it. Poleward flux is an evolutionarily conserved mechanism used by spindle microtubules both to move chromosomes and to regulate spindle length. Recent studies have identified a microtubule-depolymerizing kinesin as a key force-generating component required for flux. On the basis of these findings, we propose a new model for flux powered by a microtubule-disassembly mechanism positioned at the spindle pole. In addition, we use the flux model to explain the results of spindle manipulation experiments to illustrate the importance of flux for proper chromosome positioning.
Effect of Chain Length of Cationic Model Peptides on Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Niidome Takuro , Matsuyama Noboru , Kunihara Makoto , Hatakeyama Tomomitsu , Aoyagi Haruhiko
Published: March 2005

Cationic model peptides containing simple repeats, H-(LARL)3-(LRAL)n-NH2 (n = 0, 1, 2, and 3), were synthesized, and their antibacterial and hemolytic activities were investigated. Antibacterial activity decreased with an increase in the chain length of the peptides, whereas the reverse situation was found for hemolytic activity. As a result of measuring the bacterial membrane permeabilization, it was indicated that the complicated surface membrane structure of bacteria prevented the penetration of the long and rigid peptides into the inner membrane portion. Another peptide, H-(LARL)3-PRAL-(LRAL)2-NH2, which has a kink in the middle portion of the molecule, showed some antibacterial activity in spite of its long peptide chain.
Physicochemical Properties of Micelles of Poly(styrene-b-2-vinylpyridine-b-ethylene Oxide) in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Li Yuan , Khanal Anil , Kawasaki Nobuo , Oishi Yushi , Nakashima Kenichi
Published: March 2005

Micelles of poly(styrene-b-2-vinylpyridine-b-ethylene oxide) (PS-b-P2VP-b-PEO) triblock copolymer were prepared in aqueous solutions. The physicochemical properties of the micelles were investigated by dynamic light scattering, zeta-potential measurements, atomic-force microscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The micelles had an average diameter of about 200 nm under acidic conditions. The addition of dextran sulfate to a micellar solution under acidic conditions resulted in a significant decrease in the micelle size. This was due to a conformational change in the P2VP block form extended to shrunken forms after the cationic P2VP block was electrically neutralized with negative dextran sulfate. The release of anionic dye (Eosin Y) from the micelle particles was studied by a dialysis method, and proved to take tens of hours.
Pemetrexed Therapy for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Puto Katarzyna , Garey Jody S
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE:

To review pemetrexed, a novel multi-targeted antifolate agent.

DATA SOURCES:

A literature search was conducted (1985–September 2004) using MEDLINE and CANCERLIT. Recent abstracts from the American Society of Clinical Oncology were also included, along with the manufacturer's information. Key words were pemetrexed, LY-231514, Alimta, multi-targeted antifolate, malignant pleural mesothelioma.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

Relevant information on pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and safety and efficacy of pemetrexed from clinical trials was selected.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Pemetrexed inhibits folate metabolism and purine/pyrimidine synthesis. Based on Phase I and II trials, pemetrexed has antitumor activity in solid tumors such as lung, colorectal, and cervical. A pivotal Phase III study in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) demonstrated survival superiority of pemetrexed—cisplatin regimen versus cisplatin.

CONCLUSIONS:

Pemetrexed is a promising new drug for the treatment of solid malignancies, most notably MPM.
Satisfaction with Pharmacotherapy for Approved and Off-Label Indications—A Delphi Study
Authors: Kos Mitja , Wertheimer Albert I , Mrhar Ales
Published: March 2005

BACKGROUND:

Prescribing for non-approved uses is widespread in the treatment of AIDS, cancer, and pediatric illnesses, but it is by no means limited to these areas. Few studies have been performed evaluating reasons for off-label prescribing.

OBJECTIVE:

To explore the satisfaction with drug therapy as one of the potential reasons for off-label uses by testing a hypothesis that the satisfaction with drug therapy for off-label indications is lower than for approved indications.

METHODS:

The study compared the satisfaction with drug therapy for known off-label indications with a control group of approved indications. Twenty-four of the first 50 single-ingredient drugs, according to their share in the drug cost budget of the Slovenian Compulsory Health Insurance, had 86 different off-label indications eligible for inclusion. A control group of 86 approved indications was randomly selected from the list of all possible approved indications for the same 24 drugs. A 2–round Delphi technique, involving an expert panel of physicians who are members of the drug regulatory agency, was used to evaluate the satisfaction with drug therapy for selected indications.

RESULTS:

After the second round of the Delphi study, the median scores of satisfaction with drug therapy for approved and off-label indications were 7.00 and 6.50, respectively (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The study shows that the satisfaction with available drug therapy for off-label indications is lower than for approved indications. The statistical association, biologic plausibility, and coherence with existing information, as well as the temporality of the association, provide supporting evidence that low satisfaction with drug therapy is one of the incentives for off-label use.
Rimonabant—A Selective CB1 Antagonist
Authors: Boyd Steven Thomas , Fremming Brad Allen
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE:

To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and safety of rimonabant, a new selective cannabinoid receptor antagonist.

DATA SOURCES:

Primary literature and review articles were obtained via a MEDLINE search (1966–November 2004) using the key terms obesity, smoking cessation, cannabinoid, rimonabant, SR 141716, and SR 141716a. Additional studies and abstracts were identified from the bibliographies of reviewed literature.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

Studies and review articles related to rimonabant and the endocannabinoid system were reviewed. Data pertinent to this article were included.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Rimonabant is a selective cannabinoid receptor antagonist. Recent data have demonstrated beneficial effects of rimonabant in obesity, smoking cessation, and metabolic syndrome. Animal studies using rimonabant have shown a positive role for reducing hunger, caloric intake, and body weight and in increasing satiety. In humans, rimonabant appears to be effective for treatment of obesity and smoking cessation. Ongoing studies will examine the effect of rimonabant on obesity, metabolic syndrome, smoking cessation, and alcohol abuse. To date, the incidence of adverse effects with rimonabant has been slightly greater than placebo, with the most common being nausea.

CONCLUSIONS:

Rimonabant appears to be a promising drug in an entirely new class called selective cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonists. The drug may be approved for treatment of obesity and smoking cessation in 2005. Additional studies are ongoing that may provide information on other clinical uses for this medication.
The Impact of Anti-Stalking Training on Front Line Service Providers: Using the Anti-Stalking Training Evaluation Protocol (ASTEP)
Authors: Harmon RB , O'Connor M , Forcier A , Collins M
Published: March 2005

The Anti-Stalking Training Evaluation Protocol (ASTEP) was developed to provide Safe Horizon, a large victim service provider, with an opportunity to evaluate and improve its anti-stalking training program. This report presents the results of this effort to measure Safe Horizon staff's knowledge and general perceptions about stalking, and to assess the impact of anti-stalking training on knowledge about the anti-stalking law, and stalking in general. Although these trainees appeared familiar with stalking issues, they were able to benefit from information about different types of stalkers and stalking, and about the legal options available to victims. The implication of the findings is that, if relatively well-informed staff members of a large victim services agency can benefit from training about stalking behavior, anti-stalking legislation and the needs of stalking victims, there is almost certainly a need for such training among a wider population of victim service providers, law enforcement professionals, and the general public.
Fingerprint Detection on Counterfeit US$ Banknotes: The Importance of Preliminary Paper Examination
Authors: Azoury M , Cohen D , Himberg K , Qvintus-Leino P , Saari T , Almog J
Published: March 2005

Two seizures of counterfeit 100 US$ bills related to the same indicative number were submitted for processing of latent fingerprints. On one group of notes, identifiable fingerprints could be detected by the routine application of amino acid reagents. In the second case, this technique gave no results, even on deliberately deposited prints. Fingerprints could be revealed, however, by cyanoacrylate fuming followed by magnetic powder. Comprehensive paper analysis showed that banknotes from both seizures differed remarkably by chemical composition as well as paper macroscopic properties. The difference in surface free energy (related to surface tension) of the banknotes in the two groups seemed to be the major factor responsible for the great variance in fingerprint detectability.
Simultaneous Separation of Different Types of Amphetamine and Piperazine Designer Drugs by Capillary Electrophoresis with a Chiral Selector
Authors: Bishop SC , McCord BR , Gratz SR , Loeliger JR , Witkowski MR
Published: March 2005

The recent emergence of a new class of piperazine-type compounds has brought about the need for laboratory screening methods for both seized drugs and toxicological samples. These piperazine compounds, which include 1-benzylpiperazine (BZP) and 1-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl) piperazine (TFMPP), exhibit comparable physiological effects and can be substituted for the classic amphetamine-type drugs. We have optimized a chiral capillary electrophoresis (CE) separation that detects a set of 6 piperazine and 4 chiral amphetamine compounds in under 23 min using a 200 mM phosphate buffer at a pH = 2.8 with 20 mM hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD). In addition to the above compounds, a series of “clandestine” BZP diHCl samples were also analyzed using this method to assess the ruggedness of the procedure. The novel CE separation was tailored to simultaneously detect these piperzine compounds in addition to amphetamine-type drugs. Distinct migration time and UV-spectral data were obtained for all compounds of interest.
Population Variation in Femur Subtrochanteric Shape
Authors: Wescott DJ
Published: March 2005

Use of proximal femur shape to determine ancestry has appeal, but its validity is problematic because of unaddressed issues associated with skeletal plasticity, within- and between-population variation, sample selection, and interobserver error. In this paper, I inspect within- and between-group variation in proximal femur shape using five groups (American Blacks, American Whites, Hispanics, Native Americans, and Polynesians), and examine the affect of three environmental variables (subsistence strategy, physical terrain, and geographical region). Finally, I consider the validity of using the proximal femur to assess ancestry. The results show that there is significant within-group variation in proximal femur shape. Among Native Americans, both geographical location and subsistence strategy have a significant affect on proximal femur shape. Nevertheless, this study generally verifies the assertion that the proximal femur can be used reliably to distinguish Native Americans from American Blacks and Whites, but its precision may be reduced in some geographical regions.
The Social Construction of Written Communication
Authors: Brody Jill
Published: March 2005

The Social Construction of Written Communication. Bennett A. Rafoth and Donaid L. Rubin. eds. Norwood, N.J.: Ablex, 1988. 330 pp.
Exotic Color Categories: Linguistic Relativity to What Extent?
Authors: MacLaury Robert E.
Published: March 2005

Unusual color categories in non‐Western languages appear to support the doctrine of linguistic relativity. However, the universalist hypothesis of color‐category evolution can specify the degree to which an unexpected system departs from constraints that are imposed by visual neurology. Although universalists and relativists are locked in debate, the current data demonstrate that both schools contribute to an overview on the relation between perception and language.
The Stories People Tell: Gendered Stories of Social Class in the Bigouden Region, France
Authors: Menzies Charles R.
Published: March 2005

This paper explores the social dissonance between the stories told by women from fishing families and those told about them in the Bigouden region of Brittany, France. In this paper I draw upon stories told by and about women collected in the course of ethnographic research in the fishing communities of this region since 1992. Women from local fishing households tell stories that emphasize the importance of women in the local economy and that highlight their strength of character and abilities. These stories document the daily activities of women in the maintenance of family fishing enterprises and in the running of their households. However, these stories are not the only tales told about Bigouden women from fishing households. A counterpoising thread of stories are also told by non‐fishing folk. Whereas the stories told byfisherfolk are complementary, those told by non‐fisherfolk are not. Ultimately the argument is advanced that the stories told by non‐fisherfolk are part of an attempt to maintain local class distinctions between the fisherfolk and the local professional and propertied classes.
History in Exlie: Memory and Identity at the Borders of the Balkans
Authors: Stacul Jaro
Published: March 2005

History in exile: Memory and identity at the borders of the Balkans. Ballinger, Pamela. 2003. Princeton University Press: Princeton, xiv‐328 pp. ISBN 0‐691‐08697‐4 (paper)
The Past in Question: Modern Macedonia and the Uncertainties of Nation
Authors: Cash Jennifer Renea
Published: March 2005

Brown, Keith. The Past in Question: Modern Macedonia and the Uncertainties of Nation. Princeton and Oxford: Princeton University Press, 2003. 301 pages. ISBN: 0‐691‐09994‐4(cloth), 0‐691‐09995‐2 (paper)
Globalization and Multicultural Societies: Some Views From Europe
Authors: Murray‐White James
Published: March 2005

Globalization and Multicultural Societies: Some Views From Europe. Edited by M. Ricciardelli. S. Urban. and K. Nanopoulos. University of Notre Dame Press, Indiana, US 2003. ISBN 0‐268‐02957‐1
Grip preference, dermatoglyphics, and hand use in captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Hopkins William D. , Russell Jamie L. , Hostetter Autumn , Pilcher Dawn , Dahl Jeremy F.
Published: March 2005

This paper examined the association between grip type, hand use, and fingerprint patterns in a sample of captive chimpanzees. Grip type for simple reaching was assessed for the left and right hand and classified as thumb‐index, middle‐index, or single‐digit responses. Fingerprint patterns were characterized as whorls, loops, or arches on each finger. The results indicated that chimpanzees exhibit significantly more thumb‐index responses for the right compared to the left hand. In addition, thumb‐index responses were more prevalent for subjects that had a whorl compared to a loop or arch on their thumb. The results suggest that fingerprint patterns are associated with individual differences in grasping type in chimpanzees as well as some variation in hand use. Am J Phys Anthropol 128:57‐62, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization and structural role of disulfide bonds in a highly knotted thionin from Pyrularia pubera
Authors: Vila‐Perelló Miquel , Andreu David
Published: March 2005

Disulfide bonds play a crucial role in the stabilization of the amphipathic folding of the diverse families of cysteine‐rich antimicrobial peptides. The determination of cysteine pairings in these peptides has largely depended on sequence homology criteria, since the classical methods of disulfide bond characterization, which usually require proteolysis as a first step, encounter serious drawbacks derived from the tight folding and the presence of vicinal cysteines. We have chosen the Pyrularia pubera thionin, a 47‐residue peptide with four internal disulfides and a remarkable resistance to most proteases, as a representative member of this type of cysteine‐rich peptides and have shown that a combination of partial reduction and cyanylation readily allows the determination of its disulfide bonds. We have also studied by molecular dynamics and a combination of partial reduction and proteolysis the role of disulfide bonds in the stabilization of the tridimensional structure of this thionin and found a good agreement with our partial reduction data, suggesting that removal of only one disulfide bond is enough to significantly alter the folding of the peptide. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 80: 697–707, 2005

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Relationship between αGal epitope expression and decrease of tumorigenicity in pancreatic adenocarcinoma model
Authors: Aubert Muriel , Crotte Christian , Benkoel Liliane , Panicot‐Dubois Laurence , Bernard Jean‐Paul , Lombardo Dominique , Sadoulet Marie‐Odile , Mas Eric
Published: March 2005

The αGal epitope is a carbohydrate structure, Galα1,3Galβ1,4GlcNAc‐R, synthesized on glycoconjugates in many mammals by α1,3galactosyltransferase. Humans do not express this epitope and present in serum large amounts of naturally occuring antibodies, which recognize the αGal epitopes and participate in the hyperacute rejection of xenograft. Studies indicated that the fundamental mechanism of hyperacute rejection involving the αGal epitope expression can be used in cancer therapy. We have previously suggested that the αGal epitope expression by human pancreatic tumoral cells could decrease the tumorigenic behavior of these cells. To determine whether the expression of the αGal epitope can modify the tumorigenicity of pancreatic cancer cells, we used a Syrian golden hamster pancreatic adenocarcinoma experimental model. The expression of αGal epitopes in the Syrian golden hamster pancreatic cancer cell line HaP‐T1 was obtained by selecting stable cell clones transfected with murine α1,3galactosyltransferase gene. The αGal epitope expression resulted in a delay in the tumoral development of HaP‐T1 cells in vivo after allograft transplantation of Syrian golden hamsters (2.5‐fold, P < 0.05) and of nude mice. This result is associated with an 100% increase in survival time of nude mice bearing tumors expressing the αGal epitope. Our results confirm that the cell surface expression of αGal epitope decreases the tumorigenic behavior of pancreatic cancer cells. This novel property may be useful for the development of cancer gene immunotherapy strategy. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spin dynamics in p‐doped InAs/GaAs quantum dots
Authors: Braun P. F. , Lombez L. , Marie X. , Urbaszek B. , Sénès M. , Amand T. , Kalevich V. , Kavokin K. , Krebs O. , Voisin P. , Ustinov V.
Published: March 2005

We have investigated the optical orientation dynamics of positively charged excitons in p‐doped InAs/GaAs quantum dots. We observe a hole spin memory effect in photoluminescence experiments. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Comparative behavioral changes in postpubertal rats after neonatal excitotoxic lesions of the ventral hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Flores Gonzalo , Silva‐Gómez Adriana B. , Ibáñez Osvaldo , Quirion Remi , Srivastava Lalit K.
Published: March 2005

The neonatal ventral hippocampal (nVH) and the neonatal prefrontal cortex (nPFC) lesions in rats have been used as models to test the hypothesis that early neurodevelopmental abnormalities lead to behavioral changes putatively linked to schizophrenia. We investigated the role of the nVH and the nPFC lesions on behavioral characteristics related to locomotor behaviors, social interaction, and grooming. Bilateral ibotenic acid lesions of the VH, the PFC, or both were made in neonatal Sprague‐Dawley rats (postnatal day 7, P7) and their behaviors studied at P35 and P60. No significant differences in any of the behaviors were observed between sham animals and rats with ibotenic acid lesions at P35. Postpubertally (at P60), the spontaneous locomotor activity of nVH‐lesioned rats was significantly enhanced compared to the sham controls; however, this hyperactivity was reversed by nVH and nPFC double lesions. Neonatal PFC lesion alone did not alter spontaneous activity, although a trend of increased activity was observed. The duration of grooming was significantly decreased in rats with neonatal lesions of the VH. Similar to the data on locomotion, nVH plus nPFC lesion normalized the grooming behavior. Lesion of the PFC alone was without any significant effect on grooming behavior. Neonatal VH‐lesioned animals spent less time in active social interaction, and this effect persisted even in nVH plus nPFC‐lesioned animals. By itself, nPFC lesion did not alter social behavior. These data suggest that subtle developmental aberrations within PFC caused by nVH lesions, rather than the lesion of PFC itself, may contribute to some of the behavioral changes seen in the nVH‐lesioned rats. Synapse 56:147–153, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.