bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Horner's Syndrome: A Complication Following Carotid Endarterectomy
Authors: Gillon Jean , Schechter Steven , Carney Wilfred I.
Published: August 2008

Extracranial nerve injury following carotid endarterectomy (CEA) has been the subject of numerous reports. Horner's syndrome has been associated with a number of disorders of carotid artery but has not been reported in the literature following CEA. Horner's syndrome is characterized by specific neurologic and ophthalmologic findings and has been associated with carotid artery dissection, occlusion, aneurysm, fibromuscular dysplasia, and carotid body tumor. The authors report a persistent ipsilateral Horner's syndrome that developed in a sixty-four-year-old woman following CEA. Since 1977, 290 CEAs have been performed by the authors, and this is the only instance of this complication. The anatomy of the sympathetic chain and a review of Horner's syndrome are pre sented. Several possible etiologies are proposed for this oculosympathetic defect following CEA.
Peripheral Directional Atherectomy: Arteriographic vs Hemodynamic Assessment of Cumulative Patency
Authors: Cavallari Nicola , Feldhaus Richard J. , McGill James E. , Anselmino Marco , Mingoli Andrea
Published: August 2008

From April, 1990, to April, 1992, peripheral atherectomy using a Simpson AtheroCath was performed in 46 patients (56 limbs) with a total of 106 lesions. There were 100 stenoses (74 eccentric, 26 concentric) and 6 occlusions. Success was achieved in 103/106 (97%) procedures (97 stenoses and 6 occlusions), reducing the lesion to < 35% (stenoses: 81±13% to 22±9%, p < 0.0001, and the occlusions : 100% to 16±8%; p < 0.0001). Ankle/brachial index (ABI) improved from 0.58±0.17 to 0.85 ± 0.22 (p < 0.0001). Clinical success was achieved in 42 patients (91%). Complications occurred in 6 patients (13%): groin hematoma in 5, and in 1, acute occlusion of the femoral artery with distal embolization. There were 13 hemodynamic failures in 11 patients (28%) with an ABI reduction of more than 0.15 with respect to the maximum early postoperative level, over a mean follow-up of 15.1 months. Failure of the procedure was confirmed by arteriography in only 4 cases. Cumulative eighteen-month patency rates were 60% using arteriographic assessment and 44% for hemodynamic assessment (p < 0.025). Patency rates were 56% for the patients with a runoff score ranging between 1 and 5 and 17% with a score > 5 (p < 0.0025). A reduction of ABI during follow-up is not a true indicator of procedural failure, but it correlates with possible progression of distal disease. Evaluation of preoperative runoff may be used as a prognostic indicator.
Digital-Artery-Closing Temperatures: An Objective Index of Severity in Raynaud's Phenomenon
Authors: Singh Sewa , de Trafford June , Baskerville Paul
Published: August 2008

Evidence suggests that the color changes of Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) are initiated by spasm of the digital arteries. High-frequency A-mode ultrasound can be used to measure digital artery diameters, and in a group of patients suffering RP, the authors used it to monitor the development of digital artery spasm in fingers that had been progressively cooled. The present study evaluated the reproducibility and value of the temperature at which digital artery spasm occurs (digital-artery-closing temperature) as an objective index of RP severity. Forty-five subjects suffering RP were included (32 suffering primary RP and 13 secondary RP). All were assessed clinically by an independent physician and classified as suffering mild, moderate, or severe RR In 3 of these subjects, digital-artery-closing temperatures were determined on five separate days. The coefficients of variation for digital-artery-closing temperatures recorded in the 3 subjects were low (< 4%), confirming reproducibility. The technique failed in 1 subject suffering severe RP. In the 44 remaining subjects, digital-artery-closing temperatures correlated with clinical assessment. The mean digital-artery-closing temperatures and standard deviations for the three groups were: mild=18.31±1.07°C; moderate=20.83±1.32°C; severe = 25.53±1.38°C. The differences in closing temperatures between the groups were highly significant (P < 0.001, Mann Whitney). The maximum digital artery diameters recorded in the primary RP (including vibration white finger) subjects (Mean±Std Dev=1.21±0.14 mm) were larger than those in the secondary RP subjects (Mean±Std Dev=0.88±0.17 mm). This difference was highly significant (P < 0.001, Mann Whitney).
Ruptured Solitary Iliac Artery Aneurysms: A "Silent" Killer?
Authors: Levy Pavel J. , Sweatman C. Alden , Davis Daniel W. , Rush Daniel S. , Haynes James L.
Published: August 2008

Between 1982 and 1991, 38 cases of ruptured solitary iliac artery aneurysm (SIAA) were reported in the English literature. Iliac artery aneurysms are frequently found in conjunction with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA); however SIAA is a rare entity. Review of the literature and 4 new cases revealed a diversity of clinical presentation that may be partially explained by various mechanisms of SIAA rupture. Different from rupture of the AAA, symptoms of ruptured or leaking SIAA may be obscure and even present as a chronic disease. Emergent operative management is mandatory and requires endoaneurysmorrhaphy with interposition graft for the common and external iliac aneurysms or ligation of internal iliac aneurysms. The reported mortality of up to 75% reflects the delay in diagnosis, lack of operative experience with this particular entity, and frequent associated complications.
Regional Thrombolysis for Peripheral Arterial Occlusions: Initial Procedure of Choice?
Authors: Anker Eli , Schneider Ira J. , Melman Alexander , Palatt Terry , Wexler Howard , Cohen Bradley
Published: August 2008

Five cases, representative of our larger series, are described in which grafts and lower extremities of patients with peripheral arterial occlusions were salvaged by thrombolytic therapy with catheter-directed intra-arterial urokinase. These patients were poor surgical candidates due to serious medical problems in addition to their occlusions. Intra-arterial fibrinolysis restored arterial flow and revealed lesions suitable for percutaneous angioplasty, making surgical intervention unnecessary. As vascular surgeons and interventionalists, the authors believe that thrombolysis is underutilized in patients with lysable occlusions.
Primary Aortofemoral Bypass by Way of the Obturator Foramen: An Alternative Procedure for Femoral Sepsis Associated with an Irradiated Pelvis
Authors: Saroyan R. Mark , Field Charles K. , Fox Lawrence S. , Kerstein Morris D.
Published: August 2008

An aortofemoral bypass by way of the obturator foramen was successfully completed with use of a 6-mm polytetrafluoroethylene graft. A twenty-four-year-old woman with a radiated groin for reticular cell lymphoma arrived at a community hospital with spontaneous hemorrhage. Following resuscitation, stabilization, and transfer, the patient was operated on.
AL amyloidosis associated with IgM paraproteinemia: clinical profile and treatment outcome
Authors: Wechalekar Ashutosh D. , Lachmann Helen J. , Goodman Hugh J. B. , Bradwell Arthur , Hawkins Philip N. , Gillmore Julian D.
Published: August 2008

AL amyloidosis associated with immunoglobulin M (IgM) paraproteinemia is rare. We report 103 consecutive such patients evaluated at the National Amyloidosis Centre (London, United Kingdom) between 1988 and 2006. Renal, cardiac, and lymph node amyloid was present in 53%, 35%, and 21% of patients, respectively, at presentation and 2 or more organs were involved in 54%. Seventy-three percent had an abnormal bone marrow infiltrate (lymphoid in 87%). The median IgM paraprotein was 8 g/L and serum free light chain (FLC) ratio was abnormal in 77 (88%) of 87. The abnormal FLC component was more than 100 mg/L in only 31% cases. Thirty-two percent achieved a partial hematologic response to treatment with no complete responders, and there appeared to be a greater response to combination regimens than single-agent oral alkylators (59% vs 20%, respectively; P = .003). Four achieved amyloidotic organ responses; organ function remained stable in 68%. None with lymph node involvement showed nodal improvement. Median overall survival was 49 months. AL amyloidosis with IgM paraproteinemia represents a distinctive subset of patients with AL amyloidosis who have a wider variety of underlying clonal disorders (often lymphoid) than AL in general, have low-level FLC abnormality, and should be treated with appropriately tailored chemotherapeutic regimens for the underlying clonal disorder.
Skeletal muscle weakness, exercise tolerance and physical activity in adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Troosters T. , Langer D. , Vrijsen B. , Segers J. , Wouters K. , Janssens W. , Gosselink R. , Decramer M. , Dupont L.
Published: August 2008

The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of muscle weakness and the importance of physical inactivity in cystic fibrosis (CF), and its relationship to exercise tolerance and muscle strength.

Exercise tolerance, skeletal and respiratory muscle strength were studied in a group of 64 adults with CF (age 26±8 yrs, FEV1 % predicted65±19) and in 20 age-matched controls. Physical activity (PA) was assessed in 20 patients and all controls.

Quadriceps muscle weakness was present in 56% of the patients. Peak oxygen uptake and 6-min walking distance were below normal in 89 and 75% of patients, respectively. Respiratory muscle strength was normal. The differences remained after correcting for PA. Quadriceps force was correlated to the 6-min walking distance but not to peak oxygen uptake. “Mild” PA (>3 metabolic equivalents (METS)) and the number of steps overlapped with controls, but CF patients had less moderate PA (>4.8 METS). Moderate PA was related to peak oxygen uptake and quadriceps force.

Skeletal muscle weakness and exercise intolerance are prevalent in cystic fibrosis. Physical inactivity is a factor significantly contributing to exercise tolerance and skeletal muscle force in adults with cystic fibrosis, but these impairments are in excess to that expected from physical inactivity only.
Lung structure and function of infants with recurrent wheeze when asymptomatic
Authors: Llapur C. J. , Martínez T. M. , Coates C. , Tiller C. , Wiebke J. L. , Li X. , Applegate K. , Coxson H. O. , Tepper R. S.
Published: August 2008

Infants with recurrent wheeze have repeated episodes of airways obstruction; however, relatively little is known about the structure and function of their lungs when not symptomatic. The current authors evaluated whether infants with recurrent wheeze have smaller airway lumens or thickened airway walls, as well as decreased airway function.

High-resolution computed tomography images 1 mm thick were obtained at three anatomic locations at an elevated lung volume and at functional residual capacity. Forced expiratory flows were also measured in subjects with recurrent wheeze.

Airway lumen, wall areas and lung tissue density were not significantly different for recurrent wheeze (n = 17) and control (n = 14) subjects; however, subjects with recurrent wheeze had lower forced expiratory flows than predicted. Similar findings were obtained when subjects were grouped by exposure to tobacco smoke.

These findings indicate that infants with recurrent wheeze, as well as exposure to tobacco smoke, have lower airway function when not symptomatic. The lower forced expiratory flows may result from a degree of airway narrowing that could not be resolved with the methodology employed or from other mechanisms, such as more collapsible airways or decreased pulmonary elastic recoil.
High MMP-9 activity characterises pleural tuberculosis correlating with granuloma formation
Authors: Sheen P. , O’Kane C. M. , Chaudhary K. , Tovar M. , Santillan C. , Sosa J. , Caviedes L. , Gilman R. H. , Stamp G. , Friedland J. S.
Published: August 2008

Tuberculosis (TB) pleural disease is complicated by extensive tissue destruction. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and -9 are implicated in immunopathology of pulmonary and central nervous system TB. There are few data on MMP activity in TB pleurisy. The present study investigated MMP-1, -2 and -9 and their specific inhibitors (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 and -2) in tuberculous effusions, and correlated these with clinical and histopathological features.

Clinical data, routine blood tests, and pleural fluid/biopsy material were obtained from 89 patients presenting with pleural effusions in a TB-endemic area. MMP-1, -2 and -9 were measured by zymography or western blot, and TIMP-1 and -2 by ELISA. Pleural biopsies were examined microscopically, cultured for acid–alcohol fast bacilli and immunostained for MMP-9.

Tuberculous pleural effusions contained the highest concentrations of MMP-9 compared with malignant effusions or heart failure transudates. MMP-9 concentrations were highest in effusions from patients with granulomatous biopsies: median (interquartile range) 108 (61–218) pg·mL−1versus43 (12–83) pg·mL−1in those with nongranulomatous pleural biopsies. MMP-1 and -2 were not upregulated in tuberculous pleural fluid. The ratio of MMP-9:TIMP-1 was significantly higher in TB effusions.

Tuberculous pleurisy is characterised by a specific pattern of matrix metalloproteinase-9 upregulation, correlating with the presence of granulomas and suggesting a specific role for matrix metalloproteinase-9 in inflammatory responses in tuberculous pleural disease.
Optimization of capsid-incorporated antigens for a novel adenovirus vaccine approach
Authors: Matthews Qiana L , Yang PingAr , Wu Qi , Belousova Natalya , Rivera Angel A , Stoff-Khalili Mariam A , Waehler Reinhard , Hsu Hui-Chen , Li Zan , Li Jing , Mountz John D , Wu Hongju , Curiel David T
Published: August 2008

Despite the many potential advantages of Ad vectors for vaccine application, the full utility of current Ad vaccines may be limited by the host anti-vector immune response. Direct incorporation of antigens into the adenovirus capsid offers a new and exciting approach for vaccination strategies; this strategy exploits the inherent antigenicity of the Ad vector. Critical to exploiting Ad in this new context is the placement of antigenic epitopes within the major Ad capsid protein, hexon. In our current study we illustrate that we have the capability to place a range of antigenic epitopes within Ad5 capsid protein hexon hypervariable regions (HVRs) 2 or 5, thus producing viable Ad virions. Our data define the maximal incorporation size at HVR2 or HVR5 as it relates to identical antigenic epitopes. In addition, this data suggests that Ad5 HVR5 is more permissive to a range of insertions. Most importantly, repeated administration of our hexon-modified viruses resulted in a secondary anti-antigen response, whereas minimal secondary effect was present after administration of Ad5 control. Our study describes antigen placement and optimization within the context of the capsid incorporation approach of Ad vaccine employment, thereby broadening this new methodology.
Radioguided breast surgery for occult lesion localization – correlation between two methods
Authors: Moreno Marcelo , Wiltgen Janete Eunice , Bodanese Benito , Schmitt Ricardo Ludwig , Gutfilen Bianca , da Fonseca Lea Mirian Barbosa
Published: August 2008

Background

The detection of sub-clinical breast lesions has increased with screening mammography. Biopsy techniques can offer precision and agility in its execution, as well as patient comfort. This trial compares radioguided occult lesion localization (ROLL) and wire-guided localization (WL) of breast lesions. We investigate if a procedure at the ambulatorial level (ROLL) could lead to a better aesthetic result and less postoperative pain. In addition, we intend to demonstrate the efficacy of radioguided localization and removal of occult breast lesions using radiopharmaceuticals injected directly into the lesions and correlate radiological and histopathological findings.

Methods

One hundred and twenty patients were randomized into two groups (59 WL and 61 ROLL). The patients were requested to score the cosmetic appearance of their breast after surgery, and a numerical rating scale was used to measure pain on the first postoperative day. Clearance margins were considered at ≥ 10 mm for invasive cancer, ≥ 5 mm for ductal carcinoma in situ, and ≥ 1 mm for benign disease. Patients were subsequently treated according to the definitive histological result. When appropriate, different statistical tests were used in order to test the significance between the two groups, considering a P value < 0.05 as statistically significant.

Results

WL and ROLL located all the occult breast lesions successfully. In the ROLL group, the specimen volume was smaller and there were more cases with clear margins (P < 0.05). There were significant differences in mean time of hospital stay between WL and ROLL (21.42 vs. 2.56 hours), but not in operative time (39.4 vs. 29.9 minutes). There were significant differences in the subjective ease of the procedures as rated by the patients (cosmetic outcomes and postoperative pain).

Conclusion

ROLL is an effective method for the excision of non-palpable breast lesions. It enables more careful planning of the cutaneous incision, leading to better aesthetic results, less postoperative symptoms, and smaller volumes of excised tissue.
Cia5dregulates a new fibroblast-like synoviocyte invasion-associated gene expression signature
Authors: Laragione Teresina , Brenner Max , Li Wentian , Gulko Pércio S
Published: August 2008

Introduction

The in vitro invasive properties of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLSs) have been shown to correlate with disease severity and radiographic damage. We recently determined that FLSs obtained from pristane-induced arthritis (PIA)-susceptible DA rats are also highly invasive in the same in vitro assay through Matrigel. The transfer of alleles derived from the arthritis-resistant F344 strain at the arthritis severity locus Cia5d (RNO10), as in DA.F344(Cia5d) congenics, was enough to significantly and specifically reduce the invasive properties of FLSs. This genetically controlled difference in FLS invasion involves increased production of soluble membrane-type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) by DA, and is dependent on increased activation of MMP-2. In the present study we aimed to characterize the pattern of gene expression that correlates with differences in invasion in order to identify pathways regulated by the Cia5d locus.

Methods

Synovial tissues were collected from DA and DA.F344(Cia5d) rats 21 days after the induction of PIA. Tissues were digested and FLSs isolated. After a minimum of four passages, FLSs were plated on Matrigel-covered dishes at similar densities, followed by RNA extraction. Illumina RatRef-12 expression BeadChip arrays were used. Expression data were normalized, followed by t-test, logistic regression, and cluster analysis. Real-time PCR was used to validate the microarray data.

Results

Out of the 22,523 RefSeq gene probes present in the array, 7,665 genes were expressed by the FLSs. The expression of 66 genes was significantly different between the DA and DA.F344(Cia5d) FLSs (P < 0.01). Nineteen of the 66 differentially expressed genes (28.7%) are involved in the regulation of cell cycle progression or cancer-associated phenotypes, such as invasion and contact inhibition. These included Cxcl10, Vil2 and Nras, three genes that are upregulated in DA and known to regulate MMP-2 expression and activation. Nine of the 66 genes (13.6%) are involved in the regulation of estrogen receptor signaling or transcription. Five candidate genes located within the Cia5d interval were also differentially expressed.

Conclusions

We have identified a novel FLS invasion associated gene expression signature that is regulated by Cia5d. Many of the genes found to be differentially expressed were previously implicated in cancer cell phenotypes, including invasion. This suggests a parallel in the behavior of arthritis FLSs and cancer cells, and identifies novel pathways and genes for therapeutic intervention and prognostication.
TLR4-mediated activation of dendritic cells by the heat shock protein DnaK fromFrancisella tularensis
Authors: Ashtekar Amit R , Zhang Ping , Katz Jannet , Deivanayagam Champion C S , Rallabhandi Prasad , Vogel Stefanie N , Michalek Suzanne M
Published: August 2008

Francisella tularensis is the causative agent of tularemia, a severe, debilitating disease of humans and other mammals. As this microorganism is also classified as a “category-A pathogen” and a potential biowarfare agent, there is a need for an effective vaccine. Several antigens of F. tularensis, including the heat shock protein DnaK, have been proposed for use in a potential subunit vaccine. In this study, we characterized the innate immune response of murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (DC) to F. tularensis DnaK. Recombinant DnaK was produced using a bacterial expression system and purified using affinity, ion-exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography. DnaK induced the activation of MAPKs and NF-κB in DC and the production of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-12 p40, as well as low levels of IL-10. DnaK induced phenotypic maturation of DC, as demonstrated by an up-regulation of costimulatory molecules CD40, CD80, and CD86. DnaK stimulated DC through TLR4 and the adapters MyD88 and Toll/IL-1R domain-containing adaptor-inducing IFN-β (TRIF) that mediated differential responses. DnaK induced activation of MAPKs and NF-κB in a MyD88- or TRIF-dependent manner. However, the presence of MyD88- and TRIF-dependent signaling pathways was essential for an optimal, DnaK-induced cytokine response in DC. In contrast, DnaK induced DC maturation in a TRIF-dependent, MyD88-independent manner. These results provide insight about the molecular interactions between an immunodominant antigen of F. tularensis and host immune cells, which is crucial for the rational design and development of a safe and efficacious vaccine against tularemia.
CD5-low expression lymphocytes in canine peripheral blood show characteristics of natural killer cells
Authors: Huang Yi-Chun , Hung Shao-Wen , Jan Tong-Rong , Liao Kuang-Wen , Cheng Chiung-Hsiang , Wang Yu-Shan , Chu Rea-Min
Published: August 2008

NK cell markers and receptors have been discovered in many mammalian species, such as humans, mice, rats, pigs, and cows. However, there is still a lack of information concerning NK cell markers or receptors in canines. We have discovered that canine CD5-low density (CD5lo) cells in PBL are closely associated with NK cell characteristics. CD5lo cells comprised 14.9 ± 6.68% of the total PBL. A high proportion of the CD5lo cell population expressed CD3 (96.6%), CD8α (77.7%), CD8β (53%), α/β TCR (83%), and CD11/18 (80%), but the expression of γ/δ TCR (6.5%), CD4 (10.6%), and CD21 (2.4%) was low. CD5lo cells were larger than CD5-high density (CD5hi) cells. Light and electron microscopy revealed numerous large cytoplasmic granules in CD5lo cells, especially after IL-2 stimulation, which was in contrast to CD5hi, in which intracytoplasmic granules were not frequently seen. After IL-2 stimulation, CD5lo cells had significantly stronger NK cytotoxicity than CD5hi cells. CD5lo cells had much higher mRNA levels for NKG2D, CD16, CD94, CD160, perforin, and granzyme than CD5hi. Following IL-2 stimulation, CD5lo cells had significantly higher mRNA levels of NKp30, NKp44, CD16, and CD94 than CD5hi cells. In addition, IL-2-stimulated, CD5lo-depleted PBL showed a loss of NK cytotoxicity. CD5lo cells also showed significantly lower antigen-specific cytotoxic T cell activity as compared with CD5hi cells. Taken together, the CD5lo subset in canine PBL is closely related to canine NK cells, and CD5lo can be used as a phenotypic marker for an IL-2-dependent canine NK cell enrichment.
A dual requirement for Iroquois genes duringXenopuskidney development
Authors: Alarcón Pilar , Rodríguez-Seguel Elisa , Fernández-González Ana , Rubio Ruth , Gómez-Skarmeta José Luis
Published: August 2008

The Iroquois (Irx) genes encode evolutionary conserved homeoproteins. We report that Xenopus genes Irx1 and Irx3 are expressed and required during different stages of Xenopus pronephros development. They are initially expressed during mid-neurulation in domains extending over most of the prospective pronephric territory. Expression onset takes place after kidney anlage specification, but before pronephric organogenesis occurs. Later, during nephron segmentation, expression becomes restricted to the intermediate tubule region of the proximal-distal axis. Loss- and gain-of-function analyses, performed with specific morpholinos and inducible wild-type and dominant-negative constructs, reveal a dual requirement for Irx1 and Irx3 during pronephros development. During neurula stages, these genes maintain the specification of the pronephric territory and define its size. This seems to occur, at least in part, through positive regulation of Bmp signalling. Subsequently, Irx genes are required for proper formation of the intermediate tubule. Finally, we find that retinoic acid signalling activates both Irx1 and Irx3genes in the pronephros.
Experimental study on mitigation of ice-induced vibration for offshore platforms with a tuned mass damper
Authors: Zhang L , Yue Q-J , Zhang W-S , Hsiao C
Published: August 2008

Experimental studies have been conducted on the tuned mass damper (TMD) – a passive control device. These studies investigate the feasibility that the TMD can mitigate the vibrations induced by ice forces on offshore steel jacket platforms. A TMD device was designed and manufactured with respect to an offshore oil platform. Large-scale testing is expensive and the requirements for model similarity in model-scale testing are hard to meet. Thus, an experimental technique that focuses on the control device itself and emulates the behaviour of the structure with a simulator is presented. This novel experimental system consists of a virtual part and an actual part called the semi-experimental testing system. The virtual parts include scaled external load and a scaled simplified platform model. The actual parts include the TMD device and a moving table, which is controlled by a hydraulic actuator. By introducing the interaction between the ice sheet and the structure, the performance of the device is investigated and reasons of effectiveness reduction are explained. The results show that an optimally tuned TMD can reduce the amplified response significantly under ice load action. Finally, the application possibilities of vibration absorption using TMD to other arctic offshore structures are discussed.
Estimation-Based Local Search for Stochastic Combinatorial Optimization Using Delta Evaluations: A Case Study on the Probabilistic Traveling Salesman Problem
Authors: Birattari Mauro , Balaprakash Prasanna , Stützle Thomas , Dorigo Marco
Published: August 2008

In recent years, much attention has been devoted to the development of metaheuristics and local search algorithms for tackling stochastic combinatorial optimization problems. This paper focuses on local search algorithms; their effectiveness is greatly determined by the evaluation procedure that is used to select the best of several solutions in the presence of uncertainty. In this paper, we propose an effective evaluation procedure that makes use of empirical estimation techniques. We illustrate this approach and we assess its performance on the probabilistic traveling salesman problem. Experimental results on a large set of instances show that the proposed approach can lead to a very fast and highly effective local search algorithm.
The Consequences of Technostress for End Users in Organizations: Conceptual Development and Empirical Validation
Authors: Ragu-Nathan T. S. , Tarafdar Monideepa , Ragu-Nathan Bhanu S. , Tu Qiang
Published: August 2008

The research reported in this paper studies the phenomenon of technostress, that is, stress experienced by end users of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), and examines its influence on their job satisfaction, commitment to the organization, and intention to stay. Drawing from the Transaction-Based Model of stress and prior research on the effects of ICTs on end users, we first conceptually build a nomological net for technostress to understand the influence of technostress on three variables relating to end users of ICTs: job satisfaction, and organizational and continuance commitment. Because there are no prior instruments to measure constructs related to technostress, we develop and empirically validate two second order constructs: technostress creators (i.e., factors that create stress from the use of ICTs) and technostress inhibitors (i.e., organizational mechanisms that reduce stress from the use of ICTs). We test our conceptual model using data from the responses of 608 end users of ICTs from multiple organizations to a survey questionnaire. Our results, based on structural equation modeling (SEM), show that technostress creators decrease job satisfaction, leading to decreased organizational and continuance commitment, while Technostress inhibitors increase job satisfaction and organizational and continuance commitment. We also find that age, gender, education, and computer confidence influence technostress. The implications of these results and future research directions are discussed.
A General Theory of Organizational Stigma
Authors: Devers Cynthia E. , Dewett Todd , Mishina Yuri , Belsito Carrie A.
Published: August 2008

In recent years, the term stigma has been widely applied to organizations. However, scholars have yet to advance a theoretically consistent definition or comprehensive theory of organizational stigma. The purpose of this paper is to define the construct of organizational stigma and provide a general theory that explains the conditions under which organizational stigmas are likely to arise, how this process unfolds, and the initial effects stigmas inflict on organizations. In doing so, we distinguish organizational stigma from both individual-level stigma and the organizational-level constructs of reputation, status, celebrity, and legitimacy. We then build upon multiple streams of research to develop a richer theoretical explanation of the roles social context, social processes, and social actors play in the origination and effects of an organizational stigma.
Toll Policies for Mitigating Hazardous Materials Transport Risk
Authors: Marcotte Patrice , Mercier Anne , Savard Gilles , Verter Vedat
Published: August 2008

In this paper, we investigate toll setting as a policy tool to regulate the use of roads for dangerous goods shipments. We propose a mathematical formulation as well as a solution method for the hazardous materials toll problem. Based on a comparative analysis of proposed mathematical models, we show that toll policies can be more effective than the popular network design policies that identify road segments to be closed for vehicles carrying hazardous materials. We present a summary of computational experiments on a problem instance from Western Ontario, Canada.
Inventory Replenishment and Inbound Shipment Scheduling Under a Minimum Replenishment Policy
Authors: Hwang Hark-Chin
Published: August 2008

An effective supply system for a vendor-managed inventory (VMI) warehouse requires collaboration between a supplier and a customer, and coordination between production and distribution functions. We study a dynamic lot-sizing model for production and inbound transportation to the VMI warehouse under a policy, based on mutual benefit of the supplier and the customer, that each replenishment quantity should be no less than a predetermined minimum size. To take advantage of economies of scale in replenishment operations as well as in shipment consolidation operations, the problem in this study assumes a concave replenishment cost structure in general for which optimal algorithms are presented. By computational experiments, we show that the most important parameter on the system is the minimum replenishment quantity. We also show that the minimum replenishment policy is successful only when large-size demands are guaranteed based on collaborations.
Prognostic Value of Mature MicroRNA-21 and MicroRNA-205 Overexpression in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer by Quantitative Real-Time RT-PCR
Authors: Markou Athina , Tsaroucha Emily G , Kaklamanis Loukas , Fotinou Marianthi , Georgoulias Vassilis , Lianidou Evi S
Published: August 2008

Background: microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles are being intensively investigated for their involvement in carcinogenesis. We evaluated the prognostic value of mature microRNA-21 (miR-21) and mature microRNA-205 (miR-205) overexpression in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Patients and methods: We studied 48 pairs of NSCLC fresh frozen tissue specimens collected at time of surgery and before chemotherapy. Highly specific amplification and quantification of mature miR-21 and mature miR-205 was achieved using looped real time RT-PCR.

Results: miRNA expression, determined by real time RT-PCR, was defined by ΔΔCt measurements. We detected overexpression of mature miR-21 in 25 (52.0%) of the 48 NSCLC paired specimens and overexpression of miR-205 in 31 (64.6%). Overexpression was assessed after comparison of miRNA expression in NSCLC tissues and in their corresponding noncancerous tissues with respect to U6 expression. During the follow-up period, 29 of 48 (60.4%) patients relapsed, and 23 of 48 died (47.9%). Mature miR-21 was upregulated in 16 of 29 (55.2%) patients who relapsed and 15 of 23 (65.2%) patients who died. Mature miR-205 was overexpressed in 19 of 29 patients who relapsed (65.5%) and 15 of 23 patients who died (65.2%). Mature miR-21 overexpression correlated with overall survival (OS) of the patients (P = 0.027), whereas overexpression of mature miR-205 did not.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that overexpression of mature miR-21 is an independent negative prognostic factor for OS in NSCLC patients.
Flexural, in-plane shear and nail shear properties of falcataria-rubberwood laminated veneer board for flooring
Authors: Hwang Kweonhwan , Wong EeDing , Komatsu Kohei
Published: August 2008

A research project has been conducted to develop structural laminated veneer lumber products from tropical wood, and to evaluate their feasibility for the structural components of wooden houses. As part of this project, we investigated the flexural, in-plane shear, and nail shear properties of laminated veneer board (LVB) manufactured from a combination of falcataria (Paraserianthes falcataria) and rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis) for flooring applications. In addition, 11-ply larch (Larix leptolepis) and 7-ply radiata pine (Pinus radiata) plywood were investigated as controls. Larch plywood, bonded with phenol-based adhesive, showed the best strength properties in bending and shear tests, whereas the 12-ply (28 mm thick) resorcinol-based resin-bonded LVB had the highest ductility in nail shear. The LVB also had better bending and shear properties than radiata pine plywood. In conclusion, falcataria-rubberwood LVB demonstrated good potential to substitute larch plywood and radiata pine plywood in flooring applications.
(Non)Compliance with directives among family and friends: Responding to social pressure and individual wants
Authors: Placencia María Elena
Published: August 2008

This study explores how middle-class Quiteños respond to certain convivial directives among family and friends that they are unable or unwilling to comply with. It examines some of the strategies which Quiteños employ to deal with the tensions that can arise from two conflicting forces: social pressure and individual wants. Close ties among family members and intimate friends often make refusals to certain directives difficult, so that people feel obliged to comply because of el compromiso (social) (i.e., the obligation that relations of kin or friendship impose). On the other hand, when there is less closeness, token acceptances and avoidance strategies may be employed for face-saving purposes. Both sets of behavior (compliance and non-compliance) are interpreted in terms of the underlying interpersonal ideology of connectedness (Fitch 1998) that seems to operate in Quiteño society. Within this ideology, relationships can take precedence over the individual's o
.wn desires; if however, the bonds are less strong, people find ways of responding to social pressure without actually acting contrary to their own wishes.
Maternally inherited diabetes mellitus, deafness, chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia and myopathy as the result of A3243G mutation of mtDNA
Authors: Gál Anikó , Szabó Antal , Pentelényi Klára , Pál Zsuzsanna
Published: August 2008

A mitokondriális encephalomyopathiát, laktátacidózist, stroke-szerű epizódokat (MELAS-szindrómát) a leggyakrabban a mitokondriális genom A3243G-mutációja okozza. A mitokondriális DNS (mtDNS) A3243G-szubsztitúciója számos egyéb klinikai tünet, tünetcsoport hátterében is előfordulhat. Jelen közleményünkben egy 33 éves nő esetét ismertetjük, akinél a serdülőkori ophthalmoplegia externa, 19 éves korban, szülést követően jelentkező generalizált izomgyengeség, terhelési intolerancia, progresszív hypacusis és diabetes mellitus hátterében a szövettani vizsgálat mitokondriális betegséget igazolt. A genetikai analízis az mtDNS tRNSLeu(UUR)génjében heteroplazmikus formában A3243G-cserét talált. Esetünkben a klasszikus MELAS-fenotípus nem jelentkezett, az irodalmi adatok alapján azonban az A3243G-mutációhoz izoláltan társuló maternális öröklődésű diabetes mellitus, progresszív nagyothallás, krónikus progresszív ophthalmoplegia externa (CPEO), terhelési intolerancia és myopathia együttesen fordult elő. A családon belüli fenotípus egységes, a proband szintén A3243G-mutációt hordozó leányának is ptosisa, terhelési intoleranciája és myopathiája van. Az esetleírás kapcsán rövid áttekintést nyújtunk az A3243G-mutációkhoz társuló változatos klinikai fenotípusokról, valamint a CPEO-szindróma hátterében álló mtDNS-alterációkról.
The bases of values in the motivation of the choice of career among professional nursing students and students learning at teacher’s training college
Authors: Kovácsné Tóth Ágnes
Published: August 2008

Az oktatás, a képzés a modern társadalmak mozgatórugója; a tudás átadását szolgálják, újratermelik az emberi tőkét, és a gazdaság hajtóerejét jelentik.
Célkitűzés:
Pályaválasztási motiváció összehasonlító vizsgálata diplomásápoló-hallgatók és pedagógushallgatók körében.
Módszer:
A vizsgálat Magyarországon diplomásápoló-hallgatók és pedagógusképzésben részt vevő hallgatók körében történt. A mintában 783 hallgató vett részt.
Eredmények:
Az ápolóhivatás és pedagógushivatás kiválasztásában elsődlegesek az altruisztikus motivációk és a választott hivatás humán irányultsága. A nemek szerinti válaszokban a női válaszadók esetében magasabb értéket kaptunk az „Embereken való segítés” esetében, mint a férfiak válaszaiban. A diplomásápoló-hallgatókra nagyobb arányban jellemző a gyermekkorban történő pályaválasztás. A későbbi életszakaszban a pályaválasztás a pedagógushallgatók jellemzője.
Következtetések:
A felgyorsult gazdasági változások következtében vagy a hivatással való elégedetlenség miatt számolnunk kell azzal, hogy a fiatal korban megszerzett képesítés nem örök életre szól, az emberek nagy része élete során többször kényszerülhet arra, hogy foglalkozást váltson. A munkaerő-piaci kereslet és képzés összehangolásában az oktatásban és szakképzésben részt vevő szakembereknek kitüntetett szerepe van.
The Effects of Derelict Blue Crab Traps on Marine Organisms in the Lower York River, Virginia
Authors: Havens Kirk J. , Bilkovic Donna Marie , Stanhope Dave , Angstadt Kory , Hershner Carl
Published: August 2008

Derelict (abandoned or lost) traps targeting blue crab Callinectes sapidus have the potential to affect the blue crab fishery and other marine-oriented species. We used side-scan sonar to locate derelict traps and assess their extent and accumulation rate. Experimental traps were monitored at four locations to calculate catch rates of marine organisms and trap degradation rates. In 2006, 635–676 derelict traps were identified in a 33.5-km2 area of the lower York River in Virginia's portion of the Chesapeake Bay. Trap loss rates are estimated at 30%, resulting in the potential addition of over 100,000 traps annually to the Chesapeake Bay derelict trap population in Virginia. The top four species captured in the experimental traps were blue crab, Atlantic croaker Micropogonias undulates, oyster toadfish Opsanus tau, and white perch Morone americana. Experimental derelict traps captured 50.6 blue crabs·trap−1·season−1 during April–November 2006 and 13.6 Atlantic croakers·trap−1·season−1 during May–August 2006. There was no difference in catch rates between traps of different ages. Baiting traps to simulate entrapped fish (self-baiting) doubled the catch rate. Experimental derelict traps continued to capture organisms for at least 1 year, which suggests that derelict traps could affect blue crab populations.
Distribution, Status, and Land Use Characteristics of Subwatersheds within the Native Range of Brook Trout in the Eastern United States
Authors: Hudy Mark , Thieling Teresa M. , Gillespie Nathaniel , Smith Eric P.
Published: August 2008

We examined and summarized existing knowledge regarding the distribution and status of self-sustaining populations of brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis at the subwatershed scale (mean subwatershed area = 8,972 ha) across their native range in the eastern USA. This region represents approximately 25% of the species' entire native range and 70% of the U.S. portion of the native range. This assessment resulted in an updated and detailed range map of historical and current brook trout distribution in the study area. Based on known and predicted brook trout status, each subwatershed was classified according to the percentage of historical brook trout habitat that still maintained self-sustaining populations. We identified 1,660 subwatersheds (31%) in which over 50% of brook trout habitat was intact; 1,859 subwatersheds (35%) in which less than 50% of brook trout habitat was intact; 1,482 subwatersheds (28%) from which self-sustaining populations were extirpated; and 278 subwatersheds (5%) where brook trout were absent but the explanation for the absence was unknown (i.e., either extirpation from or a lack of historical occurrence in those subwatersheds). A classification and regression tree using five core subwatershed metrics (percent total forest, sulfate and nitrate deposition, percent mixed forest in the water corridor, percent agriculture, and road density) was a useful predictor of brook trout distribution and status, producing an overall correct classification rate of 71%. Among the intact subwatersheds, 94% had forested lands encompassing over 68% of the land base. Continued habitat loss from land use practices and the presence of naturalized exotic fishes threaten the remaining brook trout populations. The distribution of brook trout subwatershed status and related threshold metrics can be used for risk assessment and prioritization of conservation efforts.
Removal of Calcein in Wastewater Produced from the Batch Marking of Fish
Authors: Mohler Jerre W. , Bradley Kelly M.
Published: August 2008

The fluorochrome dye known as calcein (trade name SE-MARK; Western Chemical, Ferndale, Washington) is currently being tested to determine its utility for creating lethally and nonlethally detectable fluorescent marks on bony tissues of fish via batch immersion. The work is being done under an Investigational New Animal Drug (INAD) exemption granted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. However, conditions set forth in the INAD prohibit discharge of waste calcein solution from hatchery facilities, making calcein impractical for marking otoliths in certain fish (e.g., larval American shad Alosa sapidissima) due to the large volumes of wastewater created from the marking process. We performed simple laboratory tests that demonstrated the efficiency of activated carbon for removing the dye from solution; we also developed an adsorptive capacity model at calcein concentrations of 125 and 250 mg/L. Evaluation of a treatment column and a batch-type treatment showed that 7.3 and 6.6 g of carbon/L of used marking solution effectively removed the dye from 125- and 250-mg/L calcein solutions, respectively. We report that activated carbon treatment provides a practical means of eliminating calcein dye from used marking solutions. This treatment technique facilitates expanded use of SE-MARK by fisheries managers as a tool that can be used alone or in conjunction with oxytetracycline to produce unique marks in groups of fish.
A dimensão multilateral da política externa brasileira: perfil da produção bibliográfica
Authors: Santos Norma Breda dos
Published: August 2008

A política externa brasileira é abordada aqui em seu aspecto multilateral, por meio de uma revisão bibliográfica tendo como fonte principal os periódicos brasileiros especializados em relações internacionais. Procura-se traçar um panorama dos estudos sobre a atuação multilateral do Brasil em dois tempos históricos: o primeiro referente a um tempo mais longo, em busca dos aspectos conjunturais, e o segundo tratando da história do tempo presente, especificamente as últimas três décadas.
Os interesses econômicos dos Estados Unidos e a segurança interna no Brasil entre 1946 e 1964: uma análise sobre os limites entre diplomacia coercitiva e operações encobertas
Authors: Braga Paulo Romeu
Published: August 2008

O presente estudo parte da premissa de que, para garantir o acesso a fontes de matérias-primas, que lhe permitiriam manter o poderio econômico e militar no futuro, os Estados Unidos tinham a necessidade de possuir o controle sobre a segurança interna brasileira. Elencando fatos e situações que evidenciavam esse interesse econômico nas ações dos organismos governamentais norte-americanos, mesmo os que aparentemente não tratavam da questão, como é o caso da CIA e do Pentágono, o estudo busca amparo, embora superficialmente, nas doutrinas de contenção e de reserva estratégica para ao final concluir que, em razão da ausência de uma ideologia de segurança nacional e de mecanismos governamentais de alerta, a segurança interna brasileira foi conduzida pelos Estados Unidos durante as duas primeiras décadas da Guerra Fria.
Desafios de uma política externa assertiva
Authors: Souto Maior Luiz A. P.
Published: August 2008

Este artigo examina os desafios com que provavelmente se defrontará o atual governo na execução da política externa anunciada pelo candidato Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva e confirmada pelas primeiras declarações e iniciativas do atual Presidente. A linha de conduta internacional com que se comprometeu o governo atual representa uma significativa mudança em relação àquela seguida pelo país desde 1990 e tem pontos de afinidade com algumas das preocupações tradicionais da nossa diplomacia, mas inova em outros e se choca com desafios ligados à complexidade do Brasil de hoje e às peculiaridades do mundo pós-Guerra Fria e pós-11 de setembro.
Deterioração dos termos de intercâmbio, substituição de importações, industrialização e substituição de exportações: a política de comércio exterior brasileira de 1945 a 1979
Authors: Silva Heloisa Conceição Machado da
Published: August 2008

Este artigo analisa o comportamento da política de comércio exterior brasileira em um contexto interno de crise econômico-financeira, limitada capacidade de importação e exportação, industrialização e dependência em relação ao capital estrangeiro. Propõe-se identificar e avaliar o papel que desempenhou o comércio exterior brasileiro como elemento propulsor do desenvolvimento econômico.
O Brasil frente ao conflito regional na América Central: oposição ao intervencionismo e apoio à solução negociada, justa, equilibrada e duradoura (1979-1996)
Authors: Avila Carlos Federico Domínguez
Published: August 2008

O artigo analisa alguns aspectos da percepção brasileira sobre o conflito regional imperante na América Central, entre 1979 e 1996. Na conclusão sugere-se que essa política fundamentou-se no que aqui se chama de a "tese brasileira" sobre a origem, a evolução e os possíveis mecanismos de resolução para o conflito regional.