bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOME RECENT ADVANCES ON BOOTSTRAP
Authors: HE XUMING , HU FEIFANG
Published: April 2005

The bootstrap is a computer-based resampling method that can provide good approximations to the distribution of a given statistic. We review some common forms of bootstrap-based confidence intervals, with emphasis on some recent work on the estimating function bootstrap and Markov chain marginal bootstrap.
IMPROVED RESULTS ON POISSON PROCESS APPROXIMATION IN JACKSON NETWORKS
Authors: BROWN T. C. , FACKRELL M. , XIA A.
Published: April 2005

Melamed (1979) proved that for an open migration process, a necessary and sufficient condition for the equilibrium flow along a link to be Poissonian is the absence of loops: no customer can travel along the link more than once. Barbour and Brown (1996) quantified the statement by allowing the customers a small probability of travelling along the link more than once and proved Poisson process approximation theorems analogous to Melamed's Theorem. Amongst the three bounds presented in Barbour and Brown (1996), the one in terms of the Wasserstein metric is of particular interest since it reveals more insightful information about the closeness between the process of flows and an approximating Poisson process, and it is small when the parameter of the system is small, except a logarithmic factor in terms of time in which the flows are considered. The bound was later improved by Brown, Weinberg and Xia (2000) who showed that the logarithmic factor in terms of time can be lifted at the cost of an extra parameter being introduced into the bound. In this paper, we present a new bound which simplifies and sharpens the bounds in the above-mentioned two papers and compare the performance of these bounds for a simple open migration process.
HIGH DIMENSIONAL DATA ANALYSIS
Authors: BAI Z. D.
Published: April 2005

We present two examples to show how the classical multivariate statistical approaches significantly lose efficiency or do not even work when dealing with high dimensional data analysis. These underline the importance and urgency of developing new theories to fit the urgent need of high dimensional data analysis.
Thapsigargin-sensitive cationic current leads to membrane depolarization, calcium entry, and insulin secretion in rat pancreatic β-cells
Authors: Cruz-Cruz R. , Salgado A. , Sánchez-Soto C. , Vaca L. , Hiriart M.
Published: April 2005

Glucose-induced insulin secretion by pancreatic β-cells depends on membrane depolarization and [Ca2+]iincrease. We correlated voltage- and current-clamp recordings, [Ca2+]imeasurements, and insulin reverse hemolytic plaque assay to analyze the activity of a thapsigargin-sensitive cationic channel that can be important for membrane depolarization in single rat pancreatic β-cells. We demonstrate the presence of a thapsigargin-sensitive cationic current, which is mainly carried by Na+. Moreover, in basal glucose concentration (5.6 mM), thapsigargin depolarizes the plasma membrane, producing electrical activity and increasing [Ca2+]i. The latter is prevented by nifedipine, indicating that Ca2+enters the cell through L-type Ca2+channels, which are activated by membrane depolarization. Thapsigargin also increased insulin secretion by increasing the percentage of cells secreting insulin and amplifying hormone secretion by individual β-cells. Nifedipine blocked the increase completely in 5.6 mM glucose and partially in 15.6 mM glucose. We conclude that thapsigargin potentiates a cationic current that depolarizes the cell membrane. This, in turn, increases Ca2+entry through L-type Ca2+channels promoting insulin secretion.
Gonadotropin regulation of glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic and modifier subunit expression in rat ovary is subunit and follicle stage specific
Authors: Tsai-Turton Miyun , Luderer Ulrike
Published: April 2005

We have observed that levels of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) and protein levels of the catalytic and modifier subunits of the rate-limiting enzyme in GSH synthesis, GCLc and GCLm, increase in immature rat ovaries after treatment with gonadotropin. The goals of the present studies were to delineate the time course and intraovarian localization of changes in GSH and GCL after pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and after an ovulatory gonadotropin stimulus. Twenty-four hours after PMSG, there was a shift from predominantly granulosa cell expression of gclm mRNA, and to a lesser extent gclc, to predominantly theca cell expression. GCLc immunostaining increased in granulosa and theca cells and in interstitial cells. Next, prepubertal female rats were primed with PMSG, followed 48 h later by 10 IU of hCG. GCLm protein and mRNA levels increased dramatically from 0 to 4 h after hCG and then declined rapidly. There was minimal change in GCLc. The increase in gclm mRNA expression was localized mainly to granulosa and theca cells of preovulatory follicles. To verify that GCL responds similarly to an endogenous preovulatory gonadotropin surge, we quantified ovarian GCL mRNA levels during the periovulatory period in adult rats. gclm mRNA levels increased after the gonadotropin surge on proestrus and then declined rapidly. Finally, we assessed the effects of gonadotropin on ovarian GCL enzymatic activity. GCL enzymatic activity increased significantly at 48 h after PMSG injection and did not increase further after hCG. These results demonstrate that gonadotropins regulate follicular GCL expression in a follicle stage-dependent manner and in a GCL subunit-dependent manner.
Improved Ventricular Function during Inhalation of PGI2 Aerosol Partly Relies on Enhanced Myocardial Contractility
Authors: Kemming G. , Kisch-Wedel H. , Flondor M. , Hofstetter C. , Kreyling W. , Thein E. , Meisner F. , Bruhn S. , Zwissler B.
Published: April 2005

Inhaled prostacyclin (PGI2) aerosol induces selective pulmonary vasodilation. Further, it improves right ventricular (RV) function, which may largely rely on pulmonary vasodilation, but also on enhanced myocardial contractility. We investigated the effects of the inhaled PGI2 analogs epoprostenol (EPO) and iloprost (ILO) on RV function and myocardial contractility in 9 anesthetized pigs receiving aerosolized EPO (25 and 50 ng·kg–1·min–1) and, consecutively, ILO (60 ng·kg–1·min–1) for 20 min each. We measured pulmonary artery pressure (PAP), RV ejection fraction (RVEF) and RV end-diastolic-volume (RV-EDV), and left ventricular end-systolic pressure-volume-relation (end-systolic elastance, Ees). EPO and ILO reduced PAP, increased RVEF and reduced RVEDV. Ees was enhanced during all doses tested, which reached statistical significance during EPO25ng and ILO, but not during EPO50ng. PGI2 aerosol enhances myocardial contractility in healthy pigs, contributing to improve RV function.
Thoracoscopic Decortication: First-Line Therapy for Pediatric Empyema
Authors: Chang Y.-T. , Dai Z.-K. , Kao E.-L. , Chou S.-H. , Huang Meei-Feng
Published: April 2005

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has become a popular and well-refined procedure. It has several advantages over open thoracotomy in terms of invasiveness and cosmetics. The aim of this study is to consider if VATS can serve as primary management for pediatric empyema. Between October 2000 and December 2002, 13 children with empyema receiving VATS were retrospectively reviewed. Of them, 5 had tube thoracostomy before VATS intervention (group T), and 8 had VATS as the initial treatment (group V). Their mean (± SD) age of groups V and T were 5.75 ± 4.43 and 4.0 ± 1.58 years, respectively. The children of group V had a shorter length of hospital stay (group V 10.7 ± 3.54 days; group T 28.2 ± 8.32 days), a shorter period of chest tube drainage (group V 5 ± 1.87 days; group T 25 ± 11.08 days), less transfusion (group V 0.4 ± 0.17 units; group T 0.9 ± 0.27 units) and less radiation exposure (group V 10.3 ± 3.49; group T 23.4 ± 11.64). No mortality was noted in the entire series. We conclude that primary VATS is a safe, effective and definitive method which can serve as first-line therapy for children with empyema.
Clinicopathological Study of Cholelithiasis following Gastric Cancer Surgery
Authors: Nakamura K. , Ogoshi K. , Makuuchi H.
Published: April 2005

The purpose of this study was to compare liver function tests preoperatively and postoperatively in 2 cohorts of patients, those that developed gallstones after gastrectomy for cancer and those that did not develop gallstones. The cohorts were taken from 698 consecutive patients who underwent curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer between April 1980 and March 1995. In comparison with 698 patients, the gallstone group was characterized by the findings that the incidence of cholelithiasis was significantly higher in totally-gastrectomized patients and patients with upper stomach cancer. Comparison of the perioperative status revealed a significantly higher rate of complications in the gallstone patients. Analysis of the changes in liver function showed significantly higher values of glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase at time points of 1 and 3 months after surgery in the gallstone patients. The results suggest that the postoperative development of liver dysfunction and complications is associated with the formation of gallstones.
Preclinical Application of Radioimmunoguided Surgery Using Anti-Carcinoembryonic Antigen Biparatopic Antibody in the Colon Cancer
Authors: Kim J.C. , Roh S.A. , Koo K.H. , Cho Y.K. , Kim H.C. , Yu C.S. , Oh S.J. , Ryu J.S. , Bicknell D.C. , Bodmer W.F.
Published: April 2005

Radioimmunoguided surgery (RIGS) has been known as a sophisticated tool to detect micrometastasis intraoperatively. A preclinical model of RIGS was designed to test the possible clinical applicability of the biparatopic antibody in detecting colorectal cancer. The biparatopic antibody was constructed using two anti-carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)-specific antibodies, T84.66 and PR1A3, reacting against two different epitopes. 125I-labeled biparatopic antibody was introduced via the principal colonic arteries at the end of operation in 10 operable patients with colon cancer. After 24 h, the radioactivities of the tumors and lymph nodes were counted using the γ-detecting probe. The radioactivity count was performed ex vivo. The accurate detection in the primary tumors and metastatic lymph nodes were 100 and 88.7% respectively. False-positive detections occurred in 24 of 256 lymph nodes (9.4%), whereas false-negative detections occurred in 5 of them (2%). The most frequent cause of false-positive detection was dissociated radionuclides trapped in the lymphatic tissues. False-negative detections occurred mainly from weak targeting by radiolabeled antibody, probably due to weak expression of tumor CEA. Conclusively, as most detection errors appear to be reduced within 3 days in vivo, the biparatopic antibody can efficiently be applied to the clinical RIGS, thereby facilitating accurate detection and removal of occult cancer foci in colorectal cancer.
Evaluation of Sympathetic Blockade after Intrathecal and Epidural Lidocaine in Rats by Laser Doppler Perfusion Imaging
Authors: Adolphs J. , Schmitt T.K. , Schmidt D.K. , Mousa S. , Welte M. , Habazettl H. , Schäfer M.
Published: April 2005

The widespread use of neuraxial anaesthesia increases the need for animal models to evaluate therapeutic prospects, mechanisms and risks of this technique. As a methodological prerequisite, we characterised the sympathetic blockade after different modes of neuraxial anaesthesia with regard to segments supplying the splanchnic region. Under haemodynamic monitoring, lidocaine 2% or saline were infused via intrathecal (10 µl), lumbar epidural (10 and 30 µl) or thoracic epidural (10 and 30 µl) catheters. Segmental spread of neuraxially infused local anaesthetic was assessed using methylene blue. Mean arterial blood pressure decreased more severely after neuraxial lidocaine in thoracic epidural (10 and 30 µl) compared to high-volume (30 µl) lumbar anaesthesia animals. Determination of the sympathetic blockade by means of laser Doppler perfusion imaging was restricted to the paws due to a higher density of subcutaneous blood vessels as compared to the abdominal wall (mean ± SD: 3.93 ± 0.06 vs. 1.35 ± 0.05/384 mm2, p < 0.05). Only high-volume (30 µl) lumbar and thoracic epidural anaesthesia (10 and 30 µl) increased skin perfusion in both hind and front paws. This extensive sympathetic blockade was demonstrated to include splanchnic segments using thermography. Segmental spread of methylene blue did not closely correspond to laser Doppler findings and should be interpreted as minimum rather than exact epidural spread of local anaesthetic.
Preservation of Vein Allograft Viability during Long-Term Storage
Authors: Galambos B. , Csönge L. , von Versen R. , Olah A. , Tamas L. , Zsoldos P.
Published: April 2005

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the vein allograft viability following cryopreservation with that remaining after prolonged refrigerated storage. Materials and Methods: Great saphenous vein biopsies had been cryopreserved, and the samples were divided into two matched groups and stored in tissue culture medium for 42 days at +4°C, either with or without regular medium replacement. Each vein allograft was biopsied and assayed for viability every third day by the methyltetrazolium reduction assay. Viability indexes of vein allografts harvested from brain-dead multi-organ donors and from cadavers whose warm ischemic periods were maximally 24 h were also compared. Results: Vein allografts stored for 42 days at +4°C showed a similar viability (58.9 ± 1.2%) to that of cryopreserved veins (59.7 ± 2.3%). This was true even when cryopreserved and thawed allografts were subjected to 3 days of post-thaw incubation under presumably favorable conditions (58.7 ± 1.6%). There was no viability index difference between the samples with medium replaced and not replaced and the specimens harvested from two different donor groups. Conclusions: Long-term storage of vein allografts at +4°C is a valuable option for regular banking practice. Sufficient amounts can be procured from cadavers similar to tissue donors.
Effect of a Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity and TNF-Alpha Converting Enzyme Inhibitor on Intra-Abdominal Adhesions
Authors: Mirastschijski U. , Johannesson K. , Jeppsson B. , Ågren M.S.
Published: April 2005

Background: Formation of intra-abdominal adhesions depends, in part, on the activity of serine proteinases. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) are required for epithelialization of skin wounds but their involvement in mesothelialization of peritoneal wounds and in adhesion pathogenesis is not known. Early tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels have been proposed to reflect propensity to adhesion formation. Objective: The impact of MMP activity and secreted TNF-α on peritoneal adhesion formation and healing was investigated through systemic administration of the synthetic broad-spectrum MMP and TNF-α-converting enzyme (TACE) inhibitor GM 6001. Methods: Female Sprague-Dawley rats of 4–6 weeks of age were injected subcutaneously daily with GM 6001 100 mg/kg (n = 12) or vehicle (n = 10) starting two days before surgery. In each rat, two standardized peritoneal wounds, 20 mm × 5 mm, were made. One peritoneal wound was sutured whereas the contralateral wound healed by secondary intention. Adhesion formation and peritoneal healing, cell proliferation, and hydroxyproline concentrations were evaluated on postoperative day 7. Results: Total serum TNF-α levels increased in vehicle-treated rats (p = 0.019) while GM 6001 treatment effectively prevented the rise in the postoperative phase (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in the extent of adhesion formation (p = 0.67) between control (65.0%) and GM 6001-treated (61.5%) animals, or peritoneal wound healing or cell proliferation. Hydroxyproline levels increased in the wounds (p = 0.014) but were not different between the two groups (p = 0.14). Conclusions: Lack of a striking effect of the MMP and TACE antagonist GM 6001 on postoperative adhesions suggests that MMP activity and TNF-α might not be major adhesiogenic factors.
Intraindividual Variation in Total and Percent Free Prostate-Specific Antigen Levels in Prostate Cancer Suspects
Authors: Kobayashi Minoru , Kurokawa Shinsuke , Tokue Akihiko
Published: April 2005

Objectives: To investigate intraindividual total and percent free serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in prostate cancer suspects and to understand the clinical implications. Patients and Methods: Total and percent free PSA were measured using Tandem-R or chemiluminescent enzyme-linked immunoassay for a median of three times in 126 men. Prostate biopsies were performed in all patients; benign prostatic hyperplasia was diagnosed in 81 patients and prostate cancer in 45 patients. Results: The overall mean coefficients of variation for total and percent free PSA were 16.10 ± 11.94% and 15.45 ± 15.91%, respectively. A significant correlation (p = 0.0056) was observed between the two variations. The variations in total and percent free PSA were related to none of such stratifications as baseline total PSA level, histology, age, or measurement interval, but for measurement interval on that for total PSA. Conclusion: Intraindividual variation in serum PSA should be considered in decision-making about performing prostate biopsies. Also, care should be taken in interpreting repeated percent free PSA measurements in order to enhance the specificity of total PSA, because it had a similar variation to total PSA variation.
11C-Choline Positron Emission Tomography in Prostate Cancer: Primary Staging and Recurrent Site Staging
Authors: Yoshida Soichiro , Nakagomi Kazuaki , Goto Shuichi , Futatsubashi Masami , Torizuka Tatsuo
Published: April 2005

Objectives: To evaluate the usefulness of 11C-choline positron emission tomography (PET) for primary staging and re-staging of prostate cancer. Patients and Methods:11C-choline PET, a total of 22 scans, was performed on 13 patients with histologically proven prostate cancer in primary staging (n = 6) and recurrent site staging; following radical prostatectomy (n = 5) and following radiation therapy (n = 3). In 1 patient, 11C-choline PET was performed in both primary staging and re-staging. Also, 3 patients histologically proven to have no malignant prostate were included. Results: Because urinary 11C-choline activity was low, it did not interfere with the visualization of pelvic structures. 11C-choline PET visualized normal prostate with a mean SUV of 2.99 (range 2.27–3.68) and primary prostate cancer as a hot spot in 5/6 scans with a mean SUV of 4.21 (range 2.99–6.2). In re-staging, 11C-choline PET was true positive in 9/16 scans and true negative in 2/16 scans. 5/16 scans in 2 patients were false negative with negative conventional imaging. Conclusions: In primary staging, 11C-choline PET may not be of use because of no reliable differential 11C-choline uptake of BPH and prostate cancer. On the other hand, 11C-choline PET may be of value in recurrent site staging and monitoring for the prostate cancer.
Surgical Outcome of Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy Is Not Adversely Affected by Preexisting Three-Piece Inflatable Penile Implant
Authors: Mireku-Boateng A.O. , Oben Felix
Published: April 2005

Objectives: We report on our surgical findings and outcome of radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) in patients who have had three-piece inflatable penile implants. Methods: We looked at the retrospective data of 6 patients who have undergone RRP for cancer of the prostate after a prior insertion of a three-piece inflatable penile implant. We looked at the data involving operating time, blood loss, infection of the penile implant, damage to the penile implant, surgical margins of the prostate, damage to other pelvic structures, length of hospital stay, time interval between penile implant and RRP, technique of placing of the reservoir during the penile implant surgery. Results: The RRP procedures all went well, with no injury to the preexisting penile implants. There was also no compromise in the surgery for the cancer treatment, or injury to other pelvic organs. Conclusions: With increasing treatment of men with erectile dysfunction and also with increasing early diagnosis of cancer of the prostate, we are going to be seeing increasing numbers of patients who have had inflatable penile implants who subsequently need RRP for treatment of cancer of the prostate. We feel the surgery can be accomplished without any complication to the implant or compromise to the cancer surgery or injury to other pelvic organs.
Diagnosing the Location of Carcinoma in situ (CIS) of the Urinary Bladder Using Pirarubicin Hydrochloride
Authors: Uchikoba Takushi , Horiuchi Kazutaka , Oka Fumiatsu , Sato Mitsuhiro , Tsuboi Narumi , Ohaki Yoshiharu , Nishimura Taiji
Published: April 2005

Introduction: No established technique for locating solitary carcinoma in situ (CIS) of the urinary bladder or CIS accompanying bladder cancer has been determined. Here we investigated whether the location of CIS of the urinary bladder can be macroscopically ascertained by instilling pirarubicin hydrochloride (THP) into the urinary bladder. Patients and Methods: We dissolved 50 mg of THP in 50 ml of distilled water, and instilled the resulting solution into the urinary bladder. After 5 min, the urinary bladder is examined using a cystoscope. The study group consisted of 30 subjects (23 men and 7 women). Results: THP uptake was seen in 19 flat (nontumorous) areas of the bladder mucosa in 13 patients. Of these, 11 lesions in 6 patients were confirmed to be CIS. THP uptake was also seen in flat malignant lesions such as bladder cancer invasion into the prostatic urethra, and in benign lesions such as chronic cystitis and urothelial hyperplasia. Conclusions: The present method can be useful to find easily and macroscopically the location of flat malignant lesions such as CIS.
Clinical Experience of Laparoscopic-Assisted Radical Cystectomy with Continent Ileal Reservoir
Authors: Yang Stone , Huang Yi-Hsiu , Ou Yang Chih-Ming , Huann Steven K. , Chen Marcelo , Lin Wun-Rong , Lin Jen-Tai , Lo King-Yik , Chiu Allen W.
Published: April 2005

Introduction: Laparoscopic-assisted radical cystectomy with continent ileal reservoir reconstruction is a challenging procedure. We report our experience learned from a hand-assisted laparoscopic technique in our transition to a pure laparoscopic approach. Materials and Methods: Eighteen consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic-assisted radical cystectomy with continent ileal reservoir. Hand-assisted laparoscopy was used for the first 11 patients and pure laparoscopy was performed for the subsequent 7 patients in radical cystectomy. Continent ileal reservoir reconstruction was performed extracorporeally via the hand port wound or trocar extension wound. Surgical outcome was analyzed in a retrospective review of the medical records. Results: In the hand-assisted and pure laparoscopic groups, the mean operative time for cystectomy was 2.5 and 2.3 h, for continent ileal reservoir reconstruction it was 4.0 and 3.7 h, and for bilateral lymph node dissection it was 0.8 and 0.6 h, respectively. Mean intraoperative blood loss was 286 ml for the hand-assisted and 179 ml for the pure laparoscopic group. There were no major intraoperative complications nor need for conversion in any of the procedures. Bowel movement was regained in a mean of 3 days and the mean length of postoperative hospital stay was 7 days. Conclusions: The hand-assisted laparoscopic experience of radical cystectomy learned from the initial 11 patients effectively helped us in the transition to a pure laparoscopic approach. A comparable surgical outcome was found in both groups of patients.
Genitourinary Cancer: Psychological Assessment and Gender Differences
Authors: Rispoli Alessandra , Pavone Ilaria , Bongini Andrea , Di Loro Filippo , Ponchietti Roberto , Rizzo Michelangelo
Published: April 2005

Introduction: The study of the psychological impact in patients diagnosed with cancer is an important topic. Cancer diagnosiscan induce feelings of anxiety, depression, fear of recurrence and produce treatment side effects. Men and women tend to differ in their way of dealing with emotional distress and physical illness. The aim of this study is to investigate and evaluate the prevalence and detection of psychological disease in patients with genitourinary tumors and outline the eventual gender differences. Materials and Methods: State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Self-Rating Depression Scale and Illness Behavior Questionnaire were administered to 60 patients with genitourinary neoplasm. Results: Most patients show symptoms of depression and anxiety during the hospitalization. We have observed a significant gender differences in the psycho-emotional assessment. Conclusion: Our study confirms the importance to make available for the patients a proper and continuous support in pre- and postsurgery period to prevent the generation of psychological disorders.
Effect of Urinary Leakage on Sexual Function during Sexual Intercourse
Authors: Kizilkaya Beji Nezihe , Yalcın Onay , Ayyildiz Erkan Habibe , Kayir Arsaluys
Published: April 2005

Aim: This study was planned to determine the effect of urinary leakage on sexual function during sexual intercourse. Methods: The study group included 32 incontinent women who had urinary leakage during sexual intercourse and the control group consisted of 60 women with no such problem. The Sexual History Form of Schover and Jensen was completed in face-to-face interviews in a private room. Results: When compared with the women without any problem, the women with urinary incontinence were 4.7 times less satisfied with their sexual life and their partners had ejaculation without full erection 3.1 times more. In order to cope with the problem of urinary incontinence during coitus the women themselves adopted several methods. Trying to keep their partners unaware of the problem and deferring the intercourse were among the most frequently adopted methods. 43.7% of the study group indicated that this problem affected their sex life. Conclusions: The results of this study support the view that urinary leakage during coitus affects women’s sex life adversely.
Use of α1-Blockers in Female Functional Bladder Neck Obstruction
Authors: Pischedda Antonella , Pirozzi Farina Furio , Madonia Massimo , Cimino Sebastiano , Morgia Giuseppe
Published: April 2005

Introduction: Bladder outflow obstruction may cause obstructive or irritative symptoms. The diagnosis of female functional bladder neck obstruction requires a pressure/flow study and electromyography performed by videourodynamics. The treatment includes self-catheterization or bladder neck incision. We administered tamsulosin, an α1A/α1D-selective adrenergic antagonist, in women with functional bladder neck obstruction to evaluate its potential therapeutic effects. Patients andMethods: A group of 18 women affected by functional bladder neck obstruction was selected. The diagnosis was made by means of a pressure/flow study combined with electromyography and a fluoroscopic test. The diagnostic criteria were: high detrusor pressure with reduced maximum flow, silent electromyography activity, and bladder neck nonfunnelling during the fluoroscopic test. Tamsulosin 0.4 mg once daily was administered for at least 30 days. Patients with a postvoid residual urine volume ≧100 ml performed intermittent self-catheterization. Patients with a postvoid residual urine volume <100 ml performed self-catheterization every 7 days. After 30 days of therapy, all patients underwent a new pressure/flow study and a micturition fluoroscopic test. Results: 10 (56%) out of 18 treated patients showed a statistically significant improvement in symptoms, maximum flow, and postvoid residual urine volume (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The use of α1-blockers may be an initial treatment option for female functional bladder neck obstruction, as this therapeutic option proved to be effective in more than 50% of our patients suffering from this voiding dysfunction.
Importance of Magnesium in Absorption and Excretion of Oxalate
Authors: Zimmermann Diana J. , Voss Susanne , von Unruh Gerd E. , Hesse Albrecht
Published: April 2005

Introduction: Magnesium treatment for calcium oxalate urolithiasis is discussed controversially. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of magnesium supplementation on the oxalate absorption. Materials and Methods: The [13C2]oxalate absorption test was always performed three times in 6 healthy volunteers under standardized conditions, with one 10-mmol magnesium supplement together with the labeled oxalate and with two 10-mmol magnesium supplements given in 12-hour intervals. Results: The mean intestinal oxalate absorption under standard conditions was 8.6 ± 2.83%. The oxalate absorption with one 10-mmol magnesium supplement was 5.2 ± 1.40% and with two supplements 5.5 ± 1.62%. Both decreases were statistically significant relative to the standard test, however, not significantly different from each other. Conclusions: The results show that magnesium administration decreases the oxalate absorption, when magnesium is taken together with oxalate. However, magnesium administration does not decrease the oxalate absorption, when magnesium and oxalate intake differ by 12 h.
Glucose Transporter-1 Expression in Urothelial Papilloma of the Bladder
Authors: Lee Jee-Hyun , Kim Youn-Wha , Chang Sung-Goo
Published: April 2005

Introduction: Urothelial papilloma should be distinguished from low-grade urothelial carcinoma. We report our experience with glucose transporter-1 (Glut-1) expression in urothelial papilloma. Materials and Methods: From January 1987 to December 2002, 32 patients with papilloma were diagnosed. Glut-1 protein expression was studied in 32 cases of papilloma and 30 cases of carcinoma. Clinical information was obtained by chart review. Results: Mean age was 54.7 years, and the solitary lesion was 78.1%. No case of bladder papilloma expressed Glut-1 protein even in cases of recurrent papilloma. However, 67% of urothelial carcinoma specimens were stained for Glut-1 protein. Two patients developed recurrent papilloma (6.2%), 1 of whom (3.1%) developed an urothelial carcinoma 4 years after diagnosis of papilloma. Conclusions: The study showed that papilloma does not express the Glut-1 protein in contrast to urothelial carcinoma. This distinctive expression pattern of Glut-1 will possibly contribute to differentiate urothelial papilloma from low-grade urothelial carcinoma.
Morbidität einzeitiger Abortausräumungen im 2. Trimenon: Eine Standortbestimmung
Authors: Pauli E. , Haller U. , Zimmermann R.
Published: April 2005

Fragestellung: Untersuchung der Morbidität einzeitiger Abortausräumungen (Dilatation und Kürettage, D&C) im 2. Trimenon. Methoden: Retrospektive Erfassung der Frühkomplikationen von D&C im 2. Trimenon (Gruppe A: 1988–1994). Vergleich mit D&C im 1. Trimenon (Gruppe B: 1997) und der Abortinduktion durch extraamniale Prostaglandinapplikation (Literatur). Ergebnisse: D&C im 2. wies im Vergleich zum 1. Trimenon eine signifikant höhere Morbidität auf (p < 0,0001). Häufigste Komplikation in beiden Gruppen war ein Blutverlust >500 ml (p < 0,009). Daneben ergab sich mit steigendem Gestationsalter eine signifikante Zunahme der Inzidenz von Nachblutungen (p < 0,001) und Fieber >38°C (p = 0,042). Weitere Komplikationen waren: unvollständige Kürettage, Infektion, Zervixverletzung, Uterusperforation und Thrombose. Schlussfolgerungen: D&C im 2. Trimenon geht verglichen mit dem 1. Trimenon mit einer signifikant höheren Morbidität einher. Insgesamt ist das Ausmass der Komplikationen von D&C im 2. Trimenon gut tragbar und mit den Resultaten früherer Studien mehrheitlich vergleichbar. D&C weist im Vergleich zur Abortinduktion durch extraamniale Prostaglandinapplikation niedrigere Komplikationsraten auf, wobei die Vorteile von D&C vor allem im frühen 2. Trimenon liegen.
Apoptotic Response to Albumin Overload: Proximal vs. Distal/Collecting Tubule Cells
Authors: Erkan Elif , Devarajan Prasad , Schwartz George J.
Published: April 2005

End-stage renal disease due to proteinuric states has a great impact on the quality of life by necessitating renal replacement therapy. Understanding the pathophysiologic consequences of proteinuria is crucial in order to develop treatment strategies to halt the progression. We have previously reported that cultured porcine proximal tubule cells respond to albumin overload by undergoing apoptosis. In this study, we investigated the differential apoptotic response to albumin in HKC-8 (proximal tubule) and MDCK (collecting/distal tubule) cells under high concentrations of albumin simulating the nephrotic milieu. Our results are consistent with marked cytotoxicity and apoptosis within 24 h of albumin incubation in HKC-8 cells that was closely related to the fatty acid content of the albumin. In contrast, in MDCK cells, albumin stimulated cell turnover by stimulating proliferation and late onset apoptosis regardless of the fatty acid content. Another important result of this study is the direct demonstration of albumin uptake by MDCK cells mediated by endocytosis via clathrin-coated pits. A comparison of albumin uptake between proximal and distal/collecting tubule cells revealed faster uptake in proximal tubule cells within 15 min but almost 100% albumin uptake of both cell types in 1 h. In summary, our findings demonstrate that both proximal and distal nephron segments are affected in proteinuric states, but the degrees of susceptibility to albumin and associated lipid moieties are distinct in the different nephron segments.
Induction of Metallothionein in Proximal Tubular Cells by Zinc and Its Potential as an Endogenous Antioxidant
Authors: Alscher Dominik M. , Braun Nico , Biegger Dagmar , Stuelten Christina , Gawronski Kerstin , Mürdter Thomas E. , Kuhlmann Ulrich , Fritz Peter
Published: April 2005

Background: This study was undertaken to gain further insights into the expression of metallothionein (MT) in kidney, to define the necessary dosage of a metal (zinc) to achieve induction of MT and to evaluate the antioxidative potential of MT in comparison to other more common antioxidative therapeutics, like N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), and endogenous molecules, like glutathione. Methods: MT was measured in renal specimens from cadaver kidneys from patients with chronic diseases (n = 76) and controls (n = 21) by immunohistochemistry. In addition, induction experiments were performed in cell cultures of proximal tubular cells (LCC-PK1) and MT measured on the RNA and protein level (immunohistochemistry, Western and dot blotting). Antioxidative potential of MT was compared to NAC and glutathione. Results: MT was restricted to tubular cells with no differences between controls and patients. Zn caused a dose-dependent increase of MT on the RNA as well as on the protein level (RNA (ratio MT/histone 3.3): control 0.34 ± 0.12; Zn 17 µM 0.65 ± 0.26; Zn 35 µM 1.25 ± 0.43 (p < 0.05), Zn 52 µM 1.35 ± 0.46 (p < 0.05), and protein: 5.8-fold increase from 47 ± 13 mg/g total protein (n = 6) to 272 ± 140 mg/g total protein (n = 6)). The antioxidative effect of MT was equal to NAC and glutathione. Conclusions: Induction of renal MT by zinc is easily achievable and might be an interesting therapeutic and preventive tool against oxidative stress.
Abdul Rahman Baswedan and the Emancipation of the Hadramis in Indonesia
Authors: de Jonge Huub
Published: April 2005

The journalist and politician Abdul Rahman Baswedan has played a prominent role in the emancipation of the Indonesian Hadhramis and in the integration of the Hadhrami minority into the wider Indonesian society. During the early decades of the twentieth century, the comparatively small, and for outsiders relatively closed, community was in a constant state of dissension and confusion. It was divided by tensions that can be reduced to differences between the Hadhrami culture and the Indonesian cultures, and between loyalty to Hadhramaut, the region of their origin, and the country in which they were looking for a livelihood. It was only in the years leading up to World War II that the idea of being an Indonesian gained significance in these circles, not least of all thanks to Baswedan's efforts in this respect. This article examines Baswedan's childhood and school years in an Arab quarter, his journalistic training and political maturation, and his gradual realization that he belonged to a community that had no perception of its future identity. His "coming out" as an Indonesian; and his activities during the nationalist period, the Japanese occupation, and the years after independence in striving to break down the relative isolation of his Hadhrami compatriots will also be analyzed. Baswedan's life and career form a unique entry in the history of the problems that the Hadhrami community has experienced, both in the Dutch East Indies and in Indonesia.
Use of Theory-Driven Research in Counseling
Authors: Karr Carolyn A. , Larson Lisa M.
Published: April 2005

Three major journals in counseling psychology were sampled from 1990 to 1999 to assess the percentage of quantitative, empirical articles that were theory driven. Only 43% of the studies utilized a theory or model, and 57% predicted the relation between the variables, with few studies specifying the strength of the relation. Studies sampled in the Journal of Counseling Psychology (63%) and the Journal of Vocational Behavior (65%) reported a significantly higher percentage of theory-driven research than the Journal of Counseling and Development (43%). A higher proportion of Journal of Counseling Psychology studies compared with Journal of Counseling and Development studies anchored findings to theory. Few studies replicated previous studies. This paucity implies that replication is underutilized by the field as a potentially fruitful way to substantiate empirical knowledge. A binary logistic regression was conducted to examine trends over time. No trends emerged. Suggestions for future implementation of theory and implications for counseling psychology as a field are offered.
The Use of Structural Equation Modeling in Counseling Psychology Research
Authors: Martens Matthew P.
Published: April 2005

Structural equation modeling (SEM) has become increasingly popular for analyzing data in the social sciences, although several broad reviews of psychology journals suggest that many SEM researchers engage in questionable practices when using the technique. The purpose of this study is to review and critique the use of SEM in counseling psychology research regarding several of these questionable practices. One hundred five studies from 99 separate articles published in the Journal of Counseling Psychology between 1987 and 2003 were reviewed. Results of the review indicate that many counseling psychology studies do not engage in various best practices recommended by SEM experts (e.g., testing multiple a priori theoretical models or reporting all parameter estimates or effect sizes). Results also indicate that SEM practices in counseling psychology seem to be improving in some areas, whereas in other areas no improvements were noted over time. Implications of these results are discussed, and suggestions for SEM use within counseling psychology are provided.
Understanding Quantitative Research in Counseling Psychology
Authors: Gore-Felton Cheryl
Published: April 2005

This reaction to the three core contributions in the Scientific Forum of the May 2005 issue of The Counseling Psychologist discusses the strengths of each article, the significance of the findings to the field of counseling psychology, the methodological limitations, and the future direction and implications for teaching, research, and practice.
Keeping Theory Revision Front and Center in Counseling Psychology
Authors: Karr Carolyn A. , Larson Lisa M.
Published: April 2005

This rejoinder responds to the four reactions in the May 2005 issue of The Counseling Psychologist. Areas of possible confusion are clarified, and relevant examples are highlighted. Of particular interest are examples of the nomological network, which offers an excellent tool for counseling psychologists and others in related disciplines as well as within the broader field of psychology. In addition, the implications of current and future theoretical and empirical investigation of multicultural issues are discussed.
Estimating the Impacts of Special Events on an Economy
Authors: Dwyer Larry , Forsyth Peter , Spurr Ray
Published: April 2005

Special events are typically regarded as major generators of economic activity and jobs. Despite its continued use in event assessment, Input-Output (I-O) analysis has been rejected in other areas of economic impact evaluation in favor of more rigorous evaluation techniques that recognize resource constraints in the economy and interindustry effects of demand shocks. This article discusses traditional and alternative perspectives on event assessment and the assumptions on which each approach are based. Illustrative results are then provided from a study that contrasted the economic impacts from a selected event analyzed by use of a traditional I-O approach, with estimates provided through the use of a more comprehensive computable general equilibrium (CGE) model. Issues involved in the wider use of CGE models for event assessment are discussed together with the need for further development in event evaluation techniques.
Measuring Residents’ Attitude toward Sustainable Tourism: Development of Sustainable Tourism Attitude Scale
Authors: Choi Hwan-Suk Chris , Sirakaya Ercan
Published: April 2005

The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a scale assessing residents’ attitudes toward sustainable tourism (SUS-TAS). Following the pretesting phase, a 51-item scale of resident attitudes toward sustainable community tourism was administered to 800 households in a small tourism community in Texas. Psychometric properties of SUSTAS along with its practical and theoretical implications are discussed within the framework of sustainable tourism development.
Factors Influencing Purchasing Time of a New Casino Product and Its Managerial Implications: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Hong Sung-kwon , Jang Hochan
Published: April 2005

After many debates, the Small Casino, the first casino open to the Korean public, was established in 2000. This study was an attempt to determine who the initial visitors were and the factors that motivated them to visit the casino. More specifically, the research aimed to determine the factors that influence the amount of time that an individual takes to adopt participation in casino gambling. The study found that the level of gambling addiction was the most influential factor, which led to concern about the negative impacts of casino gambling. Cognitive biases, sensation seeking, and impulsiveness were found to exert significant influence on the time taken until the first visit. The research also suggests various managerial implications of the findings based on the survival analysis and the characteristics of visitors.
Evaluating Time-Series Models to Forecast the Demand for Tourism in Singapore
Authors: Oh Chi-Ok , Morzuch Bernard J.
Published: April 2005

The authors look at eight models to forecast inbound tourist arrivals to Singapore, six of which were analyzed by Chan and by Chu. The authors explore model performance from a different perspective than either of these authors and arrive at different conclusions. Major suggestions are as follows: (1) a complete comparison among competing models during the estimation phase and a battery of performance statistics when evaluating these models sheds light on several top-performing models; (2) when evaluating the forecasting performance of competing models, different performance statistics may lead to different model selections; (3) among competing models, a model that performs best during the within-sample period does not necessarily perform best in the postsample period; (4) changing the length of the forecast horizon can have an effect on the choice of the best model; and (5) a combined model may be the one that provides the best forecasting performance.
Comparing Mail and Web-Based Survey Distribution Methods: Results of Surveys to Leisure Travel Retailers
Authors: Cole Shu Tian
Published: April 2005

Findings from existing research that compares Web-based survey and traditional survey methods have been inconclusive. This study compares responses from a Web-based survey and those from a paper-and-pencil survey in terms of response rates, data quality, demographic profiles of respondents, internal consistency of scales, and responses to items among American Society of Travel Agents members. Two samples from the same population were randomly assigned to receive the questionnaire either by e-mail notices or by postal mail. Several differences were found between the Web-based survey and the paper-and-pencil survey. The response rate to the Web-based survey was lower than that to the mail survey. The Web-based survey had more missing data fields than the mail survey. The two groups differed in 15.3% of the total items in the data set. Web respondents’ mean scores to the five scales were consistently lower than those of mail respondents.
Explaining the Great Reversal in Spanish America
Authors: Katz Aaron , vom Hau Matthias , Mahoney James
Published: April 2005

This article evaluates the relative strengths and weaknesses of fuzzy-set analysis and regression analysis for explaining the “great reversal” in Spanish America. From 1750 to 1900, the most marginal colonial territories often became the region’s wealthiest countries, whereas the most central colonial territories often became the region’s poorest countries. To explain this reversal, five competing hypotheses are tested using both regression and fuzzy-set methods. The fuzzy-set analysis reaches substantively important conclusions, finding that strong liberal factions are probabilistically necessary for economic development and that dense indigenous populations are probabilistically necessary for social underdevelopment. By contrast, the regression analysis generates findings that are not meaningful. The article concludes that fuzzy-set analysis and regression analysis operate in different “causal universes” and that greater attention should be granted to the causal universe occupied by fuzzy-set analysis.
Two-Level Theories and Fuzzy-Set Analysis
Authors: Goertz Gary , Mahoney James
Published: April 2005

Two-level theories explain outcomes with causal variables at two levels of analysis that are systematically related to one another. Although many prominent scholars in the field of comparative analysis have developed two-level theories, the empirical and methodological issues that these theories raise have yet to be investigated. In this article, the authors explore different structures of two-level theories and consider the issues involved in testing these theories with fuzzy-set methods. They show that grasping the overall structure of two-level theories requires both specifying the particular type of relationship that exists between and within levels of analysis and specifying the logical linkages between levels in terms of necessary and sufficient conditions. They argue that for the purposes of testing these theories, fuzzy-set analysis provides a powerful set of tools. However, to realize this potential, investigators using fuzzy-set methods must be clear about the two-level structure of their theories from the onset.