bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention on Coronary Microvascular Resistance Index
Authors: Verhoeff Bart-Jan , Siebes Maria , Meuwissen Martijn , Atasever Bektaş , Voskuil Michiel , de Winter Robbert J. , Koch Karel T. , Tijssen Jan G.P. , Spaan Jos A.E. , Piek Jan J.
Published: December 2004

Background—

Coronary microvascular resistance during maximal hyperemia is generally assumed to be unaffected by percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs). We assessed a velocity-based index of hyperemic microvascular resistance (h-MR
v
) by using prototypes of a novel, dual-sensor (Doppler velocity and pressure)–equipped guidewire before and after PCI to test this hypothesis.

Methods and Results—

Aortic pressure, flow velocity (h-v), and pressure (h-P
d
) distal to 24 coronary lesions were measured simultaneously during maximal hyperemia induced by intracoronary adenosine. Measurements were obtained in the reference vessel before PCI and in the target vessel before and after PCI, stenting, and ultrasound-guided, upsized stenting. h-P
d
increased from 57.9±17.0 to 85.5±15.6 mm Hg, and h-MR
v
(ie, h-P
d
/h-v) decreased from 2.74±1.40 to 1.58±0.61 mm Hg · cm
−1
· s after stenting (both
P
<0.001). The reduction in h-MR
v
accounted for 34% of the decrease in total coronary resistance achieved by PCI. h-MR
v
of the target vessel after PCI was lower than that of the corresponding reference vessel despite a higher h-P
d
in the reference vessel (
P
<0.01). Post-PCI baseline MR
v
was correlated with baseline P
d
before PCI (
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

PCI-induced restoration of P
d
resulted in a reduction of h-MR
v
in accordance with the pressure dependence of h-MR
v
. The decrease in h-MR
v
to a level below that of the corresponding reference vessel in the immediate post-PCI period and a lowered baseline MR
v
suggest microvascular remodeling induced by long-term exposure to a low-pressure environment.
Recommendations for Blood Pressure Measurement in Humans and Experimental Animals
Authors: Kurtz Theodore W. , Griffin Karen A. , Bidani Anil K. , Davisson Robin L. , Hall John E.
Published: December 2004

In experimental animals, as in humans, techniques for measuring blood pressure (BP) have improved considerably over the past decade. In this document, we present recommendations for measuring BP in experimental animals with the goal of helping investigators select optimal methods for BP monitoring in the research laboratory. The advantages and disadvantages of various BP measurement methods are discussed and specific recommendations are provided for selecting the optimal technique depending on the study objective. Although indirect techniques that permit only sporadic measurements of BP may be suitable for some purposes, methods for directly measuring BP are generally preferred because of their ability to monitor the highly dynamic nature of BP in a comprehensive fashion. Selection of the methods to be used should ultimately be guided by the study objectives to insure that the techniques chosen are appropriate for the experimental questions being explored.
Endothelin-1 Stimulates the Na
+
/Ca
2+
Exchanger Reverse Mode Through Intracellular Na
+
(Na
+
i
)–Dependent and Na
+
i
-Independent Pathways
Authors: Aiello Ernesto Alejandro , Villa-Abrille María Celeste , Dulce Raúl Ariel , Cingolani Horacio Eugenio , Pérez Néstor Gustavo
Published: December 2004

This study aimed to explore the signaling pathways involved in the positive inotropic effect (PIE) of low doses of endothelin-1 (ET-1). Cat papillary muscles were used for force and intracellular Na
+
concentration (Na
+
i
) measurements, and isolated cat ventricular myocytes for patch-clamp experiments. ET-1 (5 nmol/L) induced a PIE and an associated increase in Na
+
i
that were abolished by Na
+
/H
+
exchanger (NHE) inhibition with HOE642. Reverse-mode Na
+
/Ca
2+
exchanger (NCX) blockade with KB-R7943 reversed the ET-1–induced PIE. These results suggest that the ET-1–induced PIE is totally attributable to the NHE-mediated Na
+
i
increase. However, an additional direct stimulating effect of ET-1 on NCX after the necessary increase in Na
+
i
could occur. Thus, the ET-1–induced increase in Na
+
i
and contractility was compared with that induced by partial inhibition of the Na
+
/K
+
ATPase by lowering extracellular K
+
(K
+
o
)
.
For a given Na
+
i
, ET-1 induced a greater PIE than low K
+
o
. In the presence of HOE642 and after increasing contractility and Na
+
i
by low K
+
o
, ET-1 induced an additional PIE that was reversed by KB-R7943 or the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor chelerythrine. ET-1 increased the NCX current and negatively shifted the NCX reversal potential (E
NCX
). HOE642 attenuated the increase in NCX outward current and abolished the E
NCX
shift. These results indicate that whereas the NHE-mediated ET-1–induced increase in Na
+
i
seems to be mandatory to drive NCX in reverse and enhance contractility, Na
+
i
-independent and PKC-dependent NCX stimulation appears to additionally contribute to the PIE. However, it is important to stress that the latter can only occur after the primary participation of the former.
Radiative Heat Transfer Analysis within Three-Dimensional Clouds Subjected to Solar and Sky Irradiation
Authors: Nishikawa Toru , Maruyama Shigenao , Sakai Seigo
Published: December 2004

A three-dimensional radiative heat transfer analysis of an arbitrary-shaped modeled cloud subjected to solar and sky irradiation has been performed. The Radiation Element Method by Ray Emission Model (REM2) was used for numerical simulation. Nongray, anisotropic scattering, absorbing, and emitting are taken into account in calculating the three-dimensional cloud. The modeled cloud is considered to be a low-level fair-weather cumulus in a tropical atmosphere. The cloud is modeled by unstructured mesh elements in order to investigate the curvature of cloud shape. Radiative cooling occurs in the thin layer below the cloud surface, and the thickness is approximately 20–40 m. Radiative cooling is enhanced at the swelled top of the cloud with a convex shape, which can cause a downward forcing and enhance the entrainment instability. On the other hand, radiative cooling close to the root of the swelled top is relatively weak. The solar heating does not affect the temperature change in the cloud compared with radiative heat transfer by longwave infrared radiation.
Effects of Environmentally Induced Asymmetries on Hurricane Intensity: A Numerical Study
Authors: Wu Liguang , Braun Scott A.
Published: December 2004

The influence of uniform large-scale flow, the beta effect, and vertical shear of the environmental flow on hurricane intensity is investigated in the context of the induced convective or potential vorticity asymmetries in the core region with a hydrostatic primitive equation hurricane model. In agreement with previous studies, imposition of one of these environmental effects weakens the simulated tropical cyclones. In response to the environmental influence, significant wavenumber-1 asymmetries develop. Asymmetric and symmetric tendencies of the mean radial and azimuthal winds and temperature associated with the environment-induced convective asymmetries are evaluated. The inhibiting effects of environmental influences are closely associated with the resulting eddy momentum fluxes, which tend to decelerate tangential and radial winds in the inflow and outflow layers. The corresponding changes in the symmetric circulation tend to counteract the deceleration effect. The net effect is a moderate weakening of the mean tangential and radial winds. The reduced radial wind can be viewed as an anomalous secondary radial circulation with inflow in the upper troposphere and outflow in the lower troposphere, weakening the mean secondary radial circulation.
Effects of Low-Frequency Wave Interactions on Intraseasonal Oscillations
Authors: Roundy Paul E. , Frank William M.
Published: December 2004

Intraseasonal oscillations (ISOs) control much of the large-scale variability of convection in the Tropics on time scales of about 15–100 days. These disturbances are often thought to be dominated by eastward-propagating modes, especially during austral summer, but disturbances that propagate westward are also important.

This work demonstrates by means of a multiple linear regression model and a brief case study that eastward- and westward-moving intraseasonal modes often cooperatively interact with one another to produce many of the characteristics of the observed Southern Hemisphere summer ISO. These interactions appear to be facilitated by topography and/or by the convective anomalies that are cooperatively induced by the eastward- and the westward-moving components of the oscillations. These interactions do not occur during every period of intraseasonal convective activity, but they do commonly occur during periods of high-amplitude convective anomalies. This analysis shows that eastward- and westward-moving intraseasonal modes should not be generally assumed to be linearly independent entities.
‘Evidence-based policy’ and the government of the criminal justice system - only if the evidence fits!
Authors: Naughton Michael
Published: December 2004

This article analyses the core sources of evidence that were claimed to underpin the wide-ranging reforms of the criminal justice system under the Criminal Justice Act 2003. Drawing from Foucault’s governmentality thesis, it argues that the processes of evidence collection and deployment did not comply with the government’s theoretical and methodological dictates of ‘evidence-based-policy’ as a guiding principle in all public policymaking. On the contrary, the parameters of the exercise were framed in such a way that critical evidence that questioned the wisdom of many of the planned reforms on the grounds that they will cause miscarriages of justice was completely disregarded. It is, therefore, concluded that the Criminal Justice Act (2003) is not ‘non-ideological’ as claimed. Rather, it symbolizes a governmental technique (in the Foucauldian sense) to transform ideology into discourse, which then provides the legitimate authority to force through the intended reform agenda.
Meeting parents’ needs? Discourses of ‘support’ and ‘inclusion’ in family policy
Authors: Gillies Val
Published: December 2004

This paper will critically examine the assumptions structuring policy discourses of support and inclusion, and will link them to wider political and theoretical debates. Reflecting an increasing professionalization of childrearing practices, recent policy documents have emphasized the need for all parents to have access to support, advice and guidance. Implicit in this approach is the notion that ‘socially excluded’ parents in particular are isolated from the information and assistance that enables effective parenting. Meanwhile, the concepts of poverty and inequality are becoming increasingly detached from government definitions of social exclusion. Policies addressing the ‘condition’ of exclusion commonly emphasize a perceived disconnection from mainstream values and aspirations, as opposed to marginalization from material resources. In the case of family policy, interventions framed within the discourse of ‘parenting support’ stress the importance of helping parents to do the best they can for their children. However, tacit moral judgements direct the nature and type of support that is promoted, with a particular emphasis placed on advising and ‘including’ marginalized parents. In this paper, policy definitions of support will be analysed and their implications in terms of gender and class will be drawn out. It will be argued that despite a rhetoric of empowerment and investment, the current emphasis on support represents a top-down projection of values and standards on to families, thereby ‘supporting’ conformity rather than promoting access to parenting resources.
Reproductive tourism - a price worth paying for reproductive autonomy?
Authors: Blyth Eric , Farrand Abigail
Published: December 2004

Debates concerning the degree to which reproductive technology (and, within this, assisted conception) should be subjected to control generally focus on the appropriate balance to be struck between the views of the majority in a democratic state, the need to ensure adequate protection of those directly involved, the need to ensure public acceptance of specific procedures and research and the freedom of individuals to organize their life as they see fit. While different countries espouse similar commitments to basic human values concerning the protection of life, human dignity, autonomy, and prevention of discrimination, these have not provided a means by which consensus regarding assisted conception has been achieved. Such differences facilitate ‘reproductive tourism’. This paper discusses the relationship between ‘reproductive tourism’, ‘reproductive autonomy’ and efforts to regulate assisted conception. It concludes that reproductive tourism will continue to thrive but that discussion must take place nationally and internationally to promote assisted conception procedures that avoid foreseeable harm.
Mini-Open Medial Reefing and Arthroscopic Lateral Release for the Treatment of Recurrent Patellar Dislocation
Authors: Nam Ellis K. , Karzel Ronald P.
Published: December 2004

Background: Although recurrent patellar dislocations are not uncommon, their pathophysiology and treatment are controversial.

Hypothesis

Stabilization of recurrent patellar dislocations can be successfully managed with a mini-open approach.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Twenty-two patients (23 knees) underwent a mini-open medial reefing and arthroscopic lateral release for the treatment of recurrent patellar dislocations with an average follow-up of 4.4 years (range, 1.4-14 years). The average age at the first dislocation was 15 years (range, 5-26 years), and the average age at surgery was 23 years (range, 12-65 years).

Results

There was 1 postoperative dislocation (4%) and 1 recurrent subluxation (4%). The average Kujala knee score was 88.2 ± 13.5, with overall good scores in each category. The lowest scores involved squatting (5.7), abnormal painful kneecap movements (subluxations) (7.1), and jumping (7.9). Overall, there was a statistically significant improvement in the Tegner score from 3.7 ± 1.8 before surgery to 6.9 ± 2.0 after surgery (P<. 001). Six knees (26%) were rated subjectively as excellent, 15 (65%) as good, 2 (9%) as fair, and 0 (0%) as poor. All 22 patients (100%) stated that the procedure was worthwhile. Radiographically, there was a statistically significant improvement in the congruence angle (normal, –8.0°± 6.0°) from 15.7°± 12.6° (range, 0.0° to +44.0°) before surgery to –11.5°± 8.7° (range, –20.0° to +10.0°) after surgery (P<. 001) and in the lateral patellofemoral angle (normal, > 0°) from –0.2°± 6.4° (range, –10° to +8°) before surgery to 7.9°± 2.6° (range, 0.0° to +11.0°) after surgery (P<. 001).

Conclusion

Our mini-open technique provides anatomical restoration with limited morbidity and cosmetically appealing results. Furthermore, our redislocation rates compare favorably with traditional, more extensile open approaches.
The “Moving Valgus Stress Test” for Medial Collateral Ligament Tears of the Elbow
Authors: O'Driscoll Shawn W. M. , Lawton Richard L. , Smith Adam M.
Published: December 2004

Background

The diagnosis of a painful partial tear of the medial collateral ligament in overhead-throwing athletes is challenging, even for experienced elbow surgeons and despite the use of sophisticated imaging techniques.

Hypothesis

The “moving valgus stress test” is an accurate physical examination technique for diagnosis of medial collateral ligament attenuation in the elbow.

Study Design

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Twenty-one patients underwent surgical intervention for medial elbow pain due to medial collateral ligament insufficiency or other abnormality of chronic valgus overload, and they were assessed preoperatively with an examination called the moving valgus stress test. To perform the moving valgus stress test, the examiner applies and maintains a constant moderate valgus torque to the fully flexed elbow and then quickly extends the elbow. The test is positive if the medial elbow pain is reproduced at the medial collateral ligament and is at maximum between 120 ° and 70 °.

Results

The moving valgus stress test was highly sensitive (100%, 17 of 17 patients) and specific (75%, 3 of 4 patients) when compared to assessment of the medial collateral ligament by surgical exploration or arthroscopic valgus stress testing. The mean shear range (ie, the arc within which pain was produced with the moving valgus stress test) was 120 ° to 70 °. The mean angle at which pain was at a maximum was 90 ° of elbow flexion.

Conclusions

The moving valgus stress test is an accurate physical examination technique that, when performed and interpreted correctly, is highly sensitive for medial elbow pain arising from the medial collateral ligament.
Scapular Position and Orientation in Throwing Athletes
Authors: Myers Joseph B. , Laudner Kevin G. , Pasquale Maria R. , Bradley James P. , Lephart Scott M.
Published: December 2004

Background

Despite the recognized importance of proper 3-dimensional motion of the scapula in throwers, minimal research has quantified scapular position and orientation in throwing athletes.

Hypothesis

Throwing athletes exhibit scapular position and orientation differences when compared to nonthrowing control subjects.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods

Scapular position and orientation during scapular plane humeral elevation were assessed with electromagnetic tracking in a group of 21 throwing athletes and 21 control subjects. Scapular upward/downward rotation, internal/external rotation, anterior/posterior tipping, elevation/depression, and protraction/retraction were assessed.

Results

The throwing athletes demonstrated significantly increased upward rotation, internal rotation, and retraction of the scapula during humeral elevation. No differences in anterior/posterior tipping and elevation/depression were present.

Conclusions

The results indicate that throwing athletes have scapular position and orientation differences compared to nonthrowing athletes. This suggests that throwers develop chronic adaptation for more efficient performance of the throwing motion.

Clinical Relevance

Clinicians evaluate scapular position, orientation, and movement in throwing athletes as part of the evaluation of shoulder injuries associated with the throwing motion. The current study provides clinicians with an understanding of the types of adaptations that may be observed in normal, healthy throwing athletes.
Arthroscopic Release of the Long Head of the Biceps Tendon
Authors: Kelly Anne M. , Drakos Mark C. , Fealy Stephen , Taylor Samuel A. , O'Brien Stephen J.
Published: December 2004

Background

Treatment of chronic, refractory biceps tendinitis remains controversial. The authors sought to evaluate clinical and functional outcomes of arthroscopic release of the long head of the biceps tendon.

Hypothesis

In specific cases of refractory biceps tendinitis, site-specific release of the long head of the biceps tendon may yield relief of pain and symptoms.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Fifty-four patients diagnosed with biceps tendinitis underwent arthroscopic release of the long head of the biceps tendon as an isolated procedure or as part of a concomitant shoulder procedure over a 2-year period. Patients were not excluded for concomitant shoulder abnormality, including degenerative joint disease, rotator cuff tears, Bankart lesions, or instability. Nine of 40 patients had an isolated arthroscopic release of the biceps tendon. At a minimum of 2 years, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons; the University of California, Los Angeles; and the L'Insalata shoulder questionnaires as well as ipsilateral and contralateral metrics were used for evaluation.

Results

The L'Insalata; University of California, Los Angeles; and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores were 77.6, 27.6, and 75.6, respectively. Seventy percent had a Popeye sign at rest or during active elbow flexion; 82.7% of men and 36.5% of women had a positive Popeye sign (P <. 05); 68% were rated as good, very good, or excellent. No patient reported arm pain at rest distally or proximally; 38% of patients complained of fatigue discomfort (soreness) isolated to the biceps muscle after resisted elbow flexion.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic release of the long head of the biceps tendon is an appropriate and reliable intervention for patients with chronic, refractory biceps tendinitis. Cosmetic deformity presenting as a positive Popeye sign and fatigue discomfort were the primary complaints.

Clinical Relevance

Although tenotomy is not the ideal intervention for patients of all ages with various shoulder abnormalities, data suggest that it may be an acceptable surgical intervention for a specifically selected cohort of individuals.
Resistance and Stability of A New Method for Bonding Biological Materials Using Sutures and Biological Adhesives
Authors: Paéz J. M. García , Sanmartín A. Carrera , Herrero E. Jorge , Millan I. , Cordon A. , Rocha A. , Maestro M. A. , Téllez G. , Castillo-Olivares J. L.
Published: December 2004

The valve leaflets of cardiac bioprostheses are secured and shaped by sutures which, given their high degree of resistance and poor elasticity, have been implicated in the generation of stresses within the leaflets, contributing to the failure of the bioprostheses. Bioadhesives are bonding materials that have begun to be utilized in surgery, although there is a lack of experience in their use with inert tissues or bioprostheses.

Tensile testing is performed until rupture in samples of calf pericardium, a biomaterial employed in the manufacture of bioprosthetic heart valve leaflets.

One hundred and thirty-two trials are carried out in three types of samples: intact or control tissue ( n = 12); samples transected and glued in an overlapping manner with a cyanoacrylate ( n = 60); and samples transected, sewn with a commercially available suture material and reinforced at the suture holes with the same cyanoacrylate ( n = 60). Seven days after their preparation, 12 samples from each group, including the controls, are subjected to tensile testing until rupture and the findings are compared.

In the stability study, groups of 12 each of the remaining 48 glued and 48 sutured and glued samples underwent tensile testing until rupture on days 30, 60, 90, and 120, after their preparation.

The results show that bonding with the adhesive provided a resistance ranging between 1.04 and 1.87 kg, probably insufficient for use in valve leaflets, but also afforded a high degree of elasticity. After 120 days, both the glued and the sutured and glued series show excellent elastic behavior, with no rigidity or hardening of the pericardium. These samples present reversible elongation, or strain, when they surpass their elastic limit at rupture. This finding may be due to a load concentration that is damaging to the pericardium, to the behavior of the tissue as an amorphous material, or perhaps to both circumstances.

These results need to be confirmed in future studies as they may be of value in the design and manufacture of cardiac bioprostheses.
Effect of Crystallographic Phases of TiO2 on Hepatocyte Attachment, Proliferation and Morphology
Authors: Zhao Li , Chang Jiang , Zhai Wanyin
Published: December 2004

In this study, the effect of the crystallographic phases of titanium dioxide (TiO2) on hepatocyte response was investigated by culturing cells in a medium containing a dissolution of rutile TiO2 powders, and on anatase and rutile ceramic discs. When the concentration of Ti ions exceeded 0.16 μg/mL, TiO2 exhibited cytotoxicity. However, in a range of concentrations between 10−6 and 10−3μg/mL, the Ti ion leached out from the powder stimulated cell proliferation. Cytocompatibility was also examined by the cell attachment and proliferation on the TiO2 discs. The results show that the surface characteristic of the TiO2 discs was the main factor influencing cell attachment, and the cells were better attached on the dense surface of the discs with high crystallinity than on the loose surface with low crystallinity. Both the surface characteristic and the crystallographic phase affected cell proliferation. In addition to the dense surface with high crystallinity, the anatase ceramics was in favor of cell proliferation as compared to the rutile ceramics sintered at the same temperature. In conclusion, the results suggest that the dense rutile ceramic with high crystallinity is a good substrate for hepatocytes.
Reduction From Seven to Five Cycles of Intensive Induction Chemotherapy in Children With High-Risk Neuroblastoma
Authors: Kushner Brian H. , Kramer Kim , LaQuaglia Michael P. , Modak Shakeel , Yataghene Karima , Cheung Nai-Kong V.
Published: December 2004

Purpose

We previously reported a high response rate with a dose-intensive chemotherapy regimen in 24 children with high-risk neuroblastoma (NB). We now describe similar results with changes that reduce toxicity (fewer cycles, less vincristine, use of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor).

Patients and Methods

Eighty-seven consecutive newly diagnosed children with high-risk NB underwent induction that initially had seven cycles (57 patients) but was later limited to five (30 patients). Cycles 1, 2, 4, and 6 used cyclophosphamide (140 mg/kg)/doxorubicin (75 mg/m2)/vincristine (0.15 mg/kg in the first 27 patients, 0.067 mg/kg subsequently). Cycles 3, 5, and 7 used cisplatin (200 mg/m2)/etoposide (600 mg/m2). Tumor resection followed a minimum of three cycles. The induction was eventually modified to include anti-GD2 immunotherapy after each of the last three cycles (38 patients).

Results

Bone marrow disease resolved in 70 (91%) of 77 patients and was not detected pre- and postinduction in 10 patients. After cycle 3 or 4, 86% of primary tumors were more than 50% smaller. Postinduction metaiodobenzylguanidine scans showed normal radiotracer distribution in metastatic sites in 74 (87%) of 85 patients. Overall results were: 68 (79%) complete/very good partial responses (CR/VGPR); 14 (16%) partial responses (PR); three (3%) less than PR; one (1%) death from infection; and one patient not assessable for response. Five cycles yielded a CR/VGPR rate of 83%, compared with a 77% rate from seven cycles. Side effects were myelosuppression, mucositis, and hearing deficits; neurotoxicity was insignificant with the lower vincristine dosage. Four patients (each received seven cycles) developed myelodysplasia/leukemia.

Conclusion

Five cycles of this induction regimen, plus surgery, suffice to achieve CR/VGPR in ≈80% of children with high-risk NB.
Refining the Amsterdam Criteria and Bethesda Guidelines: Testing Algorithms for the Prediction of Mismatch Repair Mutation Status in the Familial Cancer Clinic
Authors: Lipton L.R. , Johnson V. , Cummings C. , Fisher S. , Risby P. , Eftekhar Sadat A.T. , Cranston T. , Izatt L. , Sasieni P. , Hodgson S.V. , Thomas H.J.W. , Tomlinson I.P.M.
Published: December 2004

Purpose

Hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) is a Mendelian dominant syndrome of bowel, endometrial, and other cancers and results from germline mutations in mismatch repair (MMR) genes. HNPCC is now best diagnosed on molecular grounds using MMR mutation screening, aided by microsatellite instability (MSI) and immunohistochemistry in tumors. Selection of families for molecular investigation of HNPCC is usually based on suboptimal methods (Amsterdam Criteria or Bethesda Guidelines), but these can be improved using additional clinical data (mean ages of affected persons and presence of endometrial cancer) in a quantitative model.

Methods

We have verified the performance of the Wijnen model and have shown that it remains valid when HNPCC is diagnosed using mutation screening, MSI, and immunohistochemistry. We have also set up and verified our own models (Amsterdam-plus and Alternative), which perform at least as well as the Wijnen model.

Results

The Amsterdam-plus model improves on the Amsterdam Criteria by using five extra variables (numbers of colorectal and endometrial cancers in the family, number of patients with five or more adenomas, number with more than one primary cancer of the colorectum or endometrium, and mean age of presentation) and performs better than the Wijnen model. The Alternative model avoids the need to evaluate the Amsterdam Criteria and performs nearly as well as the other models.

Conclusion

We believe that a quantitative model, such as the Amsterdam-plus model, should be the first choice for selecting families or patients for evaluation of HNPCC using molecular tests. We present an algorithm for this process.
Metabolic effects of hormone replacement therapy
Authors: Stevenson John C
Published: December 2004

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has profound metabolic effects which impact on the cardiovascular system. These effects include changes in lipids and lipoproteins, glucose and insulin metabolism, haemostatic factors, inflammatory markers and body composition, as well as changes in vascular function and remodelling. Observational studies have demonstrated coronary heart disease benefit with HRT use, in contrast to the outcomes from randomised clinical trials. Lack of benefit in the latter studies appears to arise from early harm caused by HRT which outweighs any later benefit. Such early harm could result from transient increases in thrombogenesis and adverse vascular remodelling, which in turn could arise from starting doses of such therapies that are inappropriately high for the women's age. This problem is avoided in observational studies because the women are much younger and those same starting doses are appropriate for their age. Later benefit could result from oestrogen action on metabolic risk factors and direct arterial effects resulting in reduced atherogenesis. It is therefore possible that more appropriate HRT regimens could be devised to provide coronary benefit without risk of stroke, even in older age groups. Such strategies need to be tested in large clinical trials. The metabolic effects of HRTs are key to providing cardiovascular benefit.
Anchor Levels as a New Tool for the Theory and Measurement of Multiattribute Utility
Authors: Wakker Peter P. , Jansen Sylvia J. T. , Stiggelbout Anne M.
Published: December 2004

This paper introduces anchor levels as a new tool for multiattribute utility theory. Anchor levels are attribute levels whose values are not affected by other attributes. They allow for new interpretations and generalizations of known representations and utility measurement techniques. Generalizations of earlier techniques can be obtained because cases with complex interactions between attributes can now be handled. Anchor levels serve not only to enhance the generality, but also the tractability, of utility measurements, because stimuli can better be targeted toward the perception and real situation of clients. In an application, anchor levels were applied to the measurement of quality of life during radiotherapy treatment, where there are complex interactions with what happens before and after. Using anchor levels, the measurements could be related exactly to the situation of the clients, thus simplifying the clients' cognitive burden.
From the Editors…
Authors: Clemen Robert T. , Kleinmuntz Don N.
Published: December 2004

In this issue, Keeney proposes that decision analysis should focus on training people to be better decision makers and discusses implications of this proposal. Other contributions include articles on preference models for health quality outcomes, a new method for assessing multiattribute preference when preference independence does not hold, and an analysis of bargaining between a buyer and a seller where the seller must also search for their next most attractive option.
Dow AgroSciences Uses Simulation-Based Optimization to Schedule the New-Product Development Process
Authors: Bassett Matthew H. , Gardner L. Leslie , Steele Kent
Published: December 2004

Dow AgroSciences has improved its bottom line by using simulation-based optimization to reduce the time and expense of moving a portfolio of products to market. We examined mathematical programming approaches for scheduling new-product development but found that the solution of these formulations is intractable for problems of practical size that include resource constraints. We developed a simulation-based framework for generating feasible solutions, which can be used with any heuristic optimization approach (for example, tabu search or genetic algorithms). The heuristic optimization algorithms operate on a solution space consisting of the precedence relationships among activities in the new-product development process. The firm implemented this approach via a Six Sigma project. From 1998 to 2004, it saved several million dollars based on the schedules determined using simulation-based heuristic optimization.
Cornell Students Participate in Lord Corporation's Kaizen Projects
Authors: Bradley James R. , Willett Jim
Published: December 2004

In the current economic climate, many companies have lowered prices in response to their customers' demands and competition while incurring higher costs for labor, benefits, and raw materials. The Lord Corporation relies on productivity improvement from its lean-manufacturing program to mitigate the resulting squeeze on profit. Lean-manufacturing programs have, in fact, become a pervasive tactic to improve productivity for companies in all industries. Kaizen projects are a common component of lean-manufacturing programs whereby process performance is substantially improved by the concentrated effort of a work team over several days. The students of the semester-in-manufacturing (SiM) course at Cornell University's Johnson School were able to learn about kaizen projects by participating hands-on with the Lord Corporation in 2002 and 2003. They learned about continuous-improvement processes in a real-world manufacturing plant and gleaned general insights into organizational issues. The Lord Corporation benefited from the students' fresh perspective and the opportunity to highlight the kaizen projects and its lean-manufacturing program with its employees. The Lord-SiM alliance provides a model for an educational program that bridges the classroom world of education and theory and the real world where that theory must be applied. The alliance also revealed tactics for successfully managing kaizen projects.
Ohio University's College of Business Uses Integer Programming to Schedule Classes
Authors: Martin Clarence H.
Published: December 2004

Ohio University's College of Business uses an integer-programming model to assign instructors to courses, classrooms, and time slots. The model deals with a variety of issues, such as back-to-back classes, maximum number of teaching days, time slots of any configuration, multiple instructors for courses, departmental balance, and preassignments. CPLEX solves the problem for the College of Business quite easily. The college has used the model for about six years, and the administration and faculty view it very favorably.
Optimizing Military Capital Planning
Authors: Brown Gerald G. , Dell Robert F. , Newman Alexandra M.
Published: December 2004

Planning United States military procurement commits a significant portion of our nation's wealth and determines our ability to defend ourselves, our allies, and our principles over the long term. Our military pioneered and has long used mathematical optimization to unravel the distinguishing complexities of military capital planning. The succession of mathematical optimization models we present exhibits increasingly detailed features; such embellishments are always needed for real-world, long-term procurement decision models. Two case studies illustrate practical modeling tricks that are useful in helping decision makers decide how to spend about a trillion dollars.
Quadrant Homes Applies Lean Concepts in a Project Environment
Authors: Brown Karen A. , Schmitt Thomas G. , Schonberger Richard J. , Dennis Stephen
Published: December 2004

Quadrant Homes, a subsidiary of Weyerhaeuser Corporation, provides transferable lessons for applying lean-manufacturing concepts in project environments. The company has obtained impressive market and financial results, using an even-flow, predictable scheduling model in which it starts six houses per day and finishes each one in exactly 54 days. Quadrant follows recognized lean principles, including (1) designing its value stream around customer needs, (2) balancing work so all stages flow evenly, (3) operating on the basis of customer pull, and (4) continuously improving. Quadrant makes the lean principles work in a project environment by (1) knowing what can be standardized and what must be customized, (2) carefully setting and consistently managing customer expectations, (3) aligning goals of all stakeholders, and (4) recognizing that variances will occur, and designing routines to handle them when they do.
Practice Abstracts
Authors: Keefer Donald L.
Published: December 2004

“Practice Abstracts” carries short reports of specific current or recent OR/MS projects. Often these reports are based on existing documents, such as internal reports or company newsletters. We hope that these abstracts will be accessible, interesting, and valuable to practitioners in other organizations. Contributions should be sent for evaluation to the editor of “Practice Abstracts,” Donald L. Keefer, Department of Supply Chain Management, Arizona State University, Box 874706, Tempe, Arizona 85287-4706 (don.keefer@asu.edu).
Reduced Quality and an Unlevel Playing Field Could Make Consumers Happier
Authors: Melumad Nahum D. , Ziv Amir
Published: December 2004

We study a model of imperfect competition and limited production capacity in which a key feature is the trade-off between quality and quantity. In particular, lowering product quality enables firms to increase total production. We illustrate that, in the presence of limited capacity, the choice of lower quality often results in increased social welfare. We also explore the relation between the extent of competition and the choice of quality. We find that, in some cases, reduced competition leads to increased production, decreased average quality, increased total welfare, and makes consumers better off. Finally, we consider the possibility of regulator-mandated quality standards. Imposing high-quality standards never improves welfare in our model. On the other hand, mandating an upper bound on quality could either increase or decrease welfare in either a monopoly or a duopoly market.
ANNIVERSARY ARTICLE: A Perspective on “Asymmetric Information, Incentives and Intrafirm Resource Allocation”
Authors: Rajan Madhav V. , Reichelstein Stefan
Published: December 2004

The paper “Asymmetric Information, Incentives and Intrafirm Resource Allocation,” by Harris, Kriebel, and Raviv, was published in the June 1982 issue of Management Science. In this article, written as part of this journal's 50-year anniversary celebration, we highlight the significance of the Harris et al. paper for research in managerial accounting. We first formulate and solve a continuous version of the Harris et al. model to illustrate the key assumptions and findings of their paper. We then review several strands of the resource-allocation literature in managerial accounting that have taken their inspiration, either directly or indirectly, from the work of Harris et al.
Nonlinear Pricing of Information Goods
Authors: Sundararajan Arun
Published: December 2004

This paper analyzes optimal pricing for information goods under incomplete information, when both unlimited-usage (fixed-fee) pricing and usage-based pricing are feasible and administering usage-based pricing may involve transaction costs. It is shown that offering fixed-fee pricing in addition to a nonlinear usage-based pricing scheme is always profit improving in the presence of nonzero transaction costs, and there may be markets in which a pure fixed-fee is optimal. This implies that the optimal pricing strategy for information goods is almost never fully revealing. Moreover, it is proved that the optimal usage-based pricing schedule is independent of the value of the fixed fee, a result that simplifies the simultaneous design of pricing schedules considerably and provides a simple procedure for determining the optimal combination of fixed-fee and nonlinear usage-based pricing. The introduction of fixed-fee pricing is shown to increase both consumer surplus and total surplus. The differential effects of setup costs, fixed transaction costs, and variable transaction costs on pricing policy are described. These results suggest a number of managerial guidelines for designing pricing schedules. For instance, in nascent information markets, firms may profit from low fixed-fee penetration pricing, but as these markets mature, the optimal pricing mix should expand to include a wider range of usage-based pricing options. Minimum fees, quantity discounts, and adoption levels across the different pricing schemes are characterized, strategic pricing responses to changes in market characteristics are described, and the implications of the paper's results for bundling and vertical differentiation of information goods are discussed.
A Note on “The Latest Arrival Hub Location Problem”
Authors: Wagner Bernd
Published: December 2004

Kara and Tansel (Management Science, Volume 47, 2001, 1408–1420) introduce the latest arrival hub location problem as a more realistic way of modeling cargo delivery. The key feature of the new model is that each link in the network is served by a single vehicle that makes exactly one trip. As a result, the traffic requiring a particular link may be forced to wait for all other traffic requiring the same link to arrive. Therefore, the travel time between a particular pair of nodes depends not just on travel times of the links on the path taken, but also on these forced “waiting times,” which are called transient times in Kara and Tansel (2001). We show, however, that if the objective function depends only on the maximum travel time, this “new” model is essentially the same as the classical model that ignores the transient times. Our result implies that two of the three versions of the latest arrival hub location problem proposed by Kara and Tansel, including the one to which they devote most of their paper, are equivalent to their classical counterparts.
Legitimate Expectation and the Creation of Procedural and Substantive Legal Rights in Commonwealth Caribbean Public Law
Authors: Eversley Calvin
Published: December 2004

This paper advances the central argument that since Commonwealth Caribbean courts have been specifically entrusted with the great constitutional power to review not only the substance or merits of executive acts or decisions, but also the awesome power to review and strike down as void any legislation which is inconsistent with the respective Commonwealth Caribbean constitutions, then it logically and necessarily follows that these courts, in order to be able to discharge their constitutional mandates effectively, should have the constitutional power to create new substantive remedies, in general, and remedies which give protection to substantive legitimate expectations, in particular. This power is supported by strong constitutional and democratic imperatives. It should also be seen as a reinforcement of the courts' common law power to develop the law within the context of fairness and justice in suitable cases. Moreover, Commonwealth Caribbean courts may glean useful guidance from the striking developments which have taken place in English and European law in the area of substantive legitimate expectation. It is to be regretted that the vast bulk of the case law emanating from Commonwealth Caribbean courts in this area does not seem to reflect any significant awareness of these courts of their great power and responsibilities in this regard.
Body and Mind in Mount Hagen, Highlands Papua New Guinea
Authors: Stewart Pamela J. , Strathern Andrew
Published: December 2004

The concept of noman in Hagen encompasses a local theory of consciousness, agency, and morality. Interview materials are given to illustrate notions of how the noman works. The Hageners recognize a kind of duality between mind and body but no fundamental split between them. Their theory of consciousness is also a theory of morality and ethics, as well as a recognition of creative agency in life. Key words: Mount Hagen, person, gender, body/mind
The Power of Kiowa Song: A Collaborative Ethnography
Authors: Clements William M.
Published: December 2004

The Power of Kiowa Song:. Collaborative Ethnography. By Luke E. Lassiter. Tucson: University of Arizona Press, 1998. 266 pp. $17.95.
Time Without Work
Authors: Jacobson Claire
Published: December 2004

Walli F. Leff And Marilyn G. Haft 1983 Time Without Work Boston: South End Press
Making Work: Self‐Created Jobs in Participatory Organizations
Authors: Zimmer Richard
Published: December 2004

William Ronco and Lisa Peattie 1983 Making Work: Self‐Created Jobs In Participatory Organizations. New York: Plenum Press.
Work Alienation: An Integrative Approach
Authors: Molstad Clark
Published: December 2004

Rabindra N. Kanungo 1982 Work Alienation: An Integrative Approach New York: Praeger
Women, Men and the International Division of Labor
Authors: Lurie Sue G.
Published: December 2004

June Nash and Maria Fernandez‐Kelly 1983 Women, Men and the International Division of Labor Albany: State University of New York Press.
Work in Non‐Market and Transitional Societies
Authors: Hakken David J.
Published: December 2004

Herbert Applebaum Work in Non‐Market and Transitional Societies. State University of New York Press. 1984
Madruga, José Manuel Azúcar y Haitianos en la Republics Dominicana (Sugar and Haitians in the Dominican Republic)/Evertsz, Franc Báez Braceros Haitianos en la República Dominicana (Haitian Braceros in the Dominican Republic)/Lemoine, Maurice Azúcar Amargo: Hay Esclavos en el Caribe (Bitter Sugar Slaves in the Caribbean)/Pons, Frank Moya El Batey. Estudio Socioeconómico los Bateyes del Consejo Estatal Del Azúcar (The Batey: Socioeconomic Study of the Bateyes of the State Department of Sugar)
Authors: Kreniske John
Published: December 2004

Madruga, José Manuel Azúcar. Haitianos en la Republics Dominicana (Sugar and Haitians in the Dominican Republic). Edicones MSC. República Dominicana: Santo Domingo. 1986. 202 pp. RD $10.50

Evertsz, Franc Báez Braceros Haitianos en la República Dominicana (Haitian Braceros in the Dominican Republic). InstHuto Dominicano de Investigaciones Sociales. República Dominicana, Santo Domingo. 1986. 354 pp. RD $11.00

Lemoine, Maurice Azúcar Amargo: Hay Esclavos en el Caribe (Bitter Sugar Slaves in the Caribbean). República Dominicana, Santo Domingo. 1987. 389 pp. RD $10.00

Pons, Frank Moya El Batey. Estudio Socioeconómico los Bateyes del Consejo Estatal Del Azúcar (The Batey: Socioeconomic Study of the Bateyes of the State Department of Sugar). Fondo Para el Avance de las Ciencias Sociales, lnc República Dominicana: Santo Domingo. 636 pp. RD $65.00
The Myth of Meritocracy:Career Failure in the U.S.
Authors: Weil Jim
Published: December 2004

Falling From Grace: The Experience of Downward Mobility in the American Middle Class. Katherine S. Newman. (The Free Press: New York, 1988)
Pursuing Customers: An Ethnography of Marketing Activities
Authors: LaPointe Eleanor A.
Published: December 2004

Robert C. Prus. 1989. Pursuing Customers: An Ethnography of Marketing Activities. Sage Publications, Inc.
Women and the Economic Miracle: Gender and Work in Postwar Japan.
Authors: Creightonv Millie R.
Published: December 2004

Women and the Economic Miracle: Gender and Work in Postwar Japan. Mary C. Brinton. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1993. xvii. 299 pages.