bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac Structure and Ventricular–Vascular Function in Persons With Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction From Olmsted County, Minnesota
Authors: Lam Carolyn S.P. , Roger Véronique L. , Rodeheffer Richard J. , Bursi Francesca , Borlaug Barry A. , Ommen Steve R. , Kass David A. , Redfield Margaret M.
Published: April 2007

Background—

Mechanisms purported to contribute to the pathophysiology of heart failure with normal ejection fraction (HFnlEF) include diastolic dysfunction, vascular and left ventricular systolic stiffening, and volume expansion. We characterized left ventricular volume, effective arterial elastance, left ventricular end-systolic elastance, and left ventricular diastolic elastance and relaxation noninvasively in consecutive HFnlEF patients and appropriate controls in the community.

Methods and Results—

Olmsted County (Minn) residents without cardiovascular disease (n=617), with hypertension but no heart failure (n=719), or with HFnlEF (n=244) were prospectively enrolled. End-diastolic volume index was determined by echo Doppler. End-systolic elastance was determined using blood pressure, stroke volume, ejection fraction, timing intervals, and estimated normalized ventricular elastance at end diastole. Tissue Doppler e′ velocity was used to estimate the time constant of relaxation. End-diastolic volume (EDV) and Doppler-derived end-diastolic pressure (EDP) were used to derive the diastolic curve fitting (α) and stiffness (β) constants (EDP=αEDV
β
). Comparisons were adjusted for age, sex, and body size. HFnlEF patients had more severe renal dysfunction, yet smaller end-diastolic volume index and cardiac output and increased EDP compared with both hypertensive and healthy controls. Arterial elastance and ventricular end-systolic elastance were similarly increased in hypertensive controls and HFnlEF patients compared with healthy controls. In contrast, HFnlEF patients had more impaired relaxation and increased diastolic stiffness compared with either control group.

Conclusions—

From these cross-sectional observations, we speculate that the progression of diastolic dysfunction plays a key role in the development of heart failure symptoms in persons with hypertensive heart disease.
Vascular Stiffness and Genetic Variation at the Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Locus
Authors: Mitchell Gary F. , Guo Chao-Yu , Kathiresan Sekar , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Larson Martin G. , Vita Joseph A. , Keyes Michelle J. , Vyas Mitul , Newton-Cheh Christopher , Musone Stacy L. , Camargo Amy L. , Drake Jared A. , Levy Daniel , O’Donnell Christopher J. , Hirschhorn Joel N. , Benjamin Emelia J.
Published: April 2007

Arterial stiffness is a moderately heritable trait that is affected by alterations in the bioavailability of NO. Previous studies have found associations between variants in the gene for endothelial NO synthase (
NOS3
) and arterial properties. We previously identified a linkage peak for forward pressure wave amplitude in the immediate vicinity of
NOS3
. Therefore, we evaluated relations between arterial stiffness measures and common genetic variants at this locus. Eighteen single nucleotide polymorphisms capturing ≈90% of underlying common variation in
NOS3
were genotyped in unrelated Framingham Heart Study participants (N=1157; 52.2% women; mean age: 62 years) with routinely ascertained tonometry data that provided 5 arterial phenotypes (forward and reflected pressure wave amplitude, central pulse pressure, carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity, and mean arterial pressure). In women but not men, the genotype for the common
NOS3
missense mutation (Glu298Asp, rs1799983) was related to central pulse pressure (women: GG=53±0.9, GT=54±0.9, and TT=47±2.0 mm Hg,
P
=0.0047; men: GG=50±1.0, GT=49±0.9, and TT=47±1.8 mm Hg,
P
=0.30) and forward wave amplitude (women: GG=41±0.7, GT=42±0.7, and TT=38±1.6 mm Hg,
P
=0.029; men: GG=42±0.9, GT=41±0.8, and TT=39±1.5 mm Hg,
P
=0.47). The only other nominally significant sex-specific association in men but not women was between an intronic polymorphism (rs1800781) and reflected wave amplitude (women: AA=10.4±0.4, AG=11.1±0.6, and GG=8.9±2.2 mm Hg,
P
=0.50; men: AA=6.1±0.3, AG=7.3±0.5, and GG=11.3±2.3 mm Hg,
P
=0.014). After adjusting for multiple testing (18 polymorphisms and 5 phenotypes), these nominal associations were no longer significant. The present study was suggestive of modest relations between common genetic variants at the
NOS3
locus and arterial stiffness.
Noninvasive (Input) Impedance, Pulse Wave Velocity, and Wave Reflection in Healthy Middle-Aged Men and Women
Authors: Segers Patrick , Rietzschel Ernst R. , De Buyzere Marc L. , Vermeersch Sebastian J. , De Bacquer Dirk , Van Bortel Luc M. , De Backer Guy , Gillebert Thierry C. , Verdonck Pascal R.
Published: April 2007

The relation between arterial function indices, such as pulse wave velocity and augmentation index with parameters derived from input impedance analysis, is still incompletely understood. Carotid pressure, central flow waveforms, and pulse wave velocity were noninvasively acquired in 2026 apparently healthy, middle-aged subjects (1052 women and 974 men) 35 to 55 years old at inclusion. Input and characteristic impedance, reflection coefficient, the ratio of backward-to-forward pressure amplitude (reflection magnitude), and augmentation index were derived. Pulse wave velocity increased by 15% (from 6.1 to 7.0 m/s) both in men and women. In qualitative terms, input impedance evolved from a pattern indicative of wave transmission and reflection to a pattern more compatible with a windkessel-like system. In women, a decrease in total arterial compliance led to an increased input impedance in the low frequency range, whereas few changes were observed in men. Characteristic impedance did not change with age in women and even decreased in men (
P
<0.001) and could not be identified as the primary determinant of central pulse pressure. Augmentation index increased with age, as was expected, and was systematically higher in women (
P
<0.001). Reflection coefficient and reflection magnitude increased with age (
P
<0.001) without gender differences. We conclude that, in healthy middle-aged subjects, the age-related increase in arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity) is not fully paralleled by an increase in arterial impedance, suggesting a role for age-dependent modulation of aortic cross-sectional area. Wave reflection increases with age and is not higher in women than in men.
National Concepts of Security and the Problem Of Integration in Transcaucasia
Authors: Begoyan Anush
Published: April 2007

The article examines security issues of the Transcaucasian region with the focus on nonmilitary and trans-border security threats and a regional security community that also includes non-state security actors of the region, such as not-recognised autonomous entities, nations, ethnic groups, minorities, etc.This approach to regional security shifts the focus of policies from balance of power to closer regional integration and cooperation, as well as joint provision of regional security. Despite many objectives and existing obstacles to this scenario of regional development, the author sees it to be the only way toward a stable and long-term security in the region. The article argues that closer regional cooperation and integration would allow to accommodate interests and security concerns of non-state actors of the region and would bring the fate of regional issues back in the hands of the regional powers and create bases for sustainable and lasting peace in the region.
Organizational Involvement and Political Participation in China
Authors: Gang Guo
Published: April 2007

This article explores the impact of organizational involvement on political participation in mainland China. The formal organizations in China today differ in the nature of organization and membership, which in turn lead to different effect on political participation. In contrast with the Communist Party and the “mass organizations,” the reemerging civic associations have more voluntary and active members. Although providing similar benefits of vertical connections to official access and information as other formal organizations, they uniquely transcend the boundaries of the administrative or work units to bring together people with dissimilar background. Analysis of a nationwide survey data shows that involvement in the Party or mass organizations provides some advantages in participation through official channels, while the constraining effect on unconventional activities did not materialize. Involvement in civic associations significantly facilitates all types of political participation.
One Europe, Many Electorates?
Authors: Flickinger Richard S. , Studlar Donley T.
Published: April 2007

The 2004 European Parliament (EP) elections were marked by continued decline in voter turnout and wide variation in turnout levels among the member states. The addition of 10 new members for the 2004 election results presents a unique opportunity to test established explanations of turnout in EP elections. The authors re-examine models developed from general participation studies and applied in earlier research on turnout in EP elections. The updated and revised analysis continues to point to the importance of both national and European Union—level influences in explaining EP election turnout. Thus, although the second-order model of European elections still holds considerable appeal, the increasing divergence of turnout patterns in 2004 and through time suggests that European issues may be important in some countries.
A Tale of Two Regions in China
Authors: Xiangming Chen
Published: April 2007

The study of regions has been undergoing an intellectual `renaissance', resulting in a growing literature on the renewed importance and dynamics of varied forms of regions and regionalism (see Amin, 1999; Lovering, 1999; MacLeod, 2001). However, insufficient research has been devoted to the `crucial middle' role of regions in bridging and integrating global, national, and local economies. This role also turns regions into highly contested terrains for the diverse tensions and outcomes of economic integration, or lack of it, to play out. These include simultaneous tendencies in competitive and cooperative policies and practices of subnational and local governments versus those of global and local firms, as well as shifting opportunities and constraints on economic development and industrial upgrading. In this article, I advance a thesis that new regional dynamics are capable of mediating or restructuring global-local economic relations in varied ways to either facilitate or hinder the course of local economic growth and industrial upgrading. This thesis is elaborated and validated through a comparative analysis of the Pearl River Delta (PRD) and the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) in China — two of the most dynamic manufacturing regions in the world. This analysis focuses on how the organizational and spatial formations of regionalized global-local production networks, the regional urban hierarchy, fierce inter-local competition, and decentralized governance have led to rapid economic development in two historically and geographically well-endowed regions but may impede industrial upgrading that is crucial to sustaining their economic development. The article concludes by offering improved regional governance approaches as collective solutions to what appears to be a spatially fragmented microeconomic challenge of upgrading to sustainable economic development.
Globalization and the Rise of One Heterogeneous World Culture
Authors: Van Der Bly Martha C.E.
Published: April 2007

What are the effects of economic and cultural globalization on local communities? This research proposes that economic globalization does not lead to homogeneity of culture, but to heterogeneity. I analyse quantitative and qualitative data for Leixlip, the strongest globalized village in the Republic of Ireland, one of the world's most globalized economies. Dominant economic globalization causes a resurgence of local identity, a reinvention of local history and a revival of the indigenous language. An expansive global identity both provokes and facilitates an explanatory local identity. The results confirm that globalization of culture creates heterogeneity, but within the context of one world culture, namely as local adaptations of world cultural forms.
We're onto you
Authors: Connor Stuart
Published: April 2007

This article examines the use of imagery and language in New Labour's attempts to shift public attitudes to benefit fraud. A critical discourse analysis of the Department for Work and Pensions' `Targeting Benefit Fraud' campaign is provided, where it is argued that the campaign portrays those who commit fraud as a threatening other, whose presence necessitates and legitimates the government's increased use of technical, legislative and punitive mechanisms for managing `problem populations'. As a whole, the campaign represents a `politics of enforcement' that is derived from and helps constitute a moral authoritarianism. It is argued that the Targeting Benefit Fraud campaign needs to be understood, not just as an attempt to educate or inform the public about the problems of benefit fraud, but as part of a raft of measures that attempt to legitimize an `employment first' welfare state and reconfigure relationships between citizens and the state.
'Sinbin' solutions
Authors: Garrett Paul Michael
Published: April 2007

The `problem family' has been re-excavated by New Labour and located at the centre of the drive against `anti-social behaviour'. Associated with this is a plan, announced at the launch of the Respect Action Plan, to put in place a network of `intensive family support' schemes: the so-called `sinbins'. It is maintained that this is a retrogressive development and needs to be viewed in the context of debates that took place on the `problem family', in Britain and elsewhere in Europe, in the past. Examining research reports that `evaluate' the existing `sinbins' it is argued that these are lacking in reflexive hesitancy and insufficiently critical. It is also suggested that social policy researchers, frequently funded by government grants when investigating `social problems', need to retain a certain wariness and scepticism before providing research `products' which seem to largely endorse the policy and practice `solutions' that the State, committed to the maintenance of social order, has formulated.
Agency, Resources, and Identity
Authors: Gallagher Sally K.
Published: April 2007

Drawing on theories of structure and agency, this article assesses how women in lower-income households in Damascus use existing gender schemas to avoid unattractive employment and improve their access to income and employment. It highlights the overlapping effects of economic policy and gender dependency schemas on both the need for additional income and women's employment opportunities. While providing greater access to resources, women's accommodation to gender dependency schemas also helps to maintain domesticity and dependence on men. Agency for these women draws on and reinforces a collectively gendered sense of self that is central to the process of both obtaining resources and doing gender.
The Impact of Nursing Interventions
Authors: Bolton Linda Burnes , Donaldson Nancy E. , Rutledge Dana N. , Bennett Crystal , Brown Diane S.
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this article is to present findings from a review of published systematic/integrative reviews and meta-analyses on nursing interventions and patient outcomes in acute care settings. A literature search was conducted for the period 1999-2005, producing 4,000 systematic/integrative reviews and 500 meta-analyses covering seven topics selected by the authors: elder care, caregivers, developmental care of neonates and infants, symptom management, pressure ulcer prevention/treatment, incontinence, and staffing. The association between nursing care interventions/processes and patient outcomes in acute care settings was found to be limited in the articles reviewed. The strongest evidence was for the use of patient risk-assessment tools and interventions implemented by nurses to prevent patient harm. We observed significant variation in methods to measure the effect of independent variables (nursing interventions) on patient outcomes. Results indicate the need for more research measuring the effect of specific nursing interventions that may impact acute care patient outcomes.
White-Collar Proletariat?
Authors: Carey Malcolm
Published: April 2007

• Summary: This paper considers the experience of a small cohort of agency care managers 1 ( N = 23) in the context of the ongoing debate about the deskilling of social work. Evidence is presented and discussed in relation to post-war studies of the labour process and asks whether Braverman's proposition that deskilling is an inevitable outcome of capitalism's labour process has any relevance in explaining whether agency social workers are `white-collar proletarians' or not.

• Findings: The article identifies that there have been important changes to the social work labour process, including the regimes of care/case management and the subsequent intensification of employee workloads and deskilling (particularly for agency workers). However, for agency workers there are important processes that have stood to contain the full impact of proletarianization.

• Applications : The evidence provided suggests that 1) social work is still experiencing significant forces of change which continue to extend the process of proletarianization; 2) the expansion of the private sector in social care and the continuing reliance upon agency care managers remain but two examples of such detrimental change for both social work and service users/carers; and 3) without resistance deskilling and marginalization are likely to continue.
Skewed expression and up-regulation of the IL-12 and IL-18 receptors in resting and activated CD4 T cells from HIV-1-infected patients
Authors: de Arquer Guillermo Robert , Peña Ruth , Cabrera Cecilia , Coma Gemma , Ruiz-Hernandez Raul , Guerola Rosa , Clotet Bonaventuta , Ruiz Lidia , Esté José A , Calle M Luz , Bofill Margarita
Published: April 2007

IL-12 and IL-18 synergistically induce the production of IFN-γ by resting and activated T cells. To evaluate whether this induction was affected in HIV-1-infected patients, PBMC or isolated CD4 T cells were cultured with IL-12 plus IL-18, anti-CD3 plus anti-CD28, or PHA for 72 h. Cell samples were labeled daily to assess the levels of IL-12 receptor β1 (IL-12Rβ1), IL-12Rβ2, and IL-18Rα. Culture supernatants were analyzed for the presence of Th1- and Th2-related cytokines by ELISA or cytometric bead array and analyzed by flow cytometry. A twofold increase in the percentage of CD4-resting T cells expressing IL-12Rβ1 and IL-18Rα from HIV-1-infected patients was observed when compared with cells from HIV-1-negative donors. Higher IL-12Rβ1 and IL-18Rα expression correlated (r=0.87; P<0.007) to increased production of IFN-γ by isolated CD4 T cells in the presence of IL-12 and IL-18. Moreover, exogenous IL-12 and IL-18 induced the up-regulation of IL-12Rβ2 to twice higher in CD4 T cells from HIV-1-positive individuals compared with controls. Conversely, upon activation with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies, only 25% of the CD4+ T cells from HIV-1 patients showed an increase in the IL-12β2 when compared with 50% in healthy controls. Furthermore, the percentage of IL-12Rβ1-positive cells correlated inversely with the CD4 nadir of patients, suggesting that deregulation of the IL-12 and IL-18 pathways may play a role in the immunopathogenesis of HIV-1 infection.
Cellular Prion Protein Signaling in Serotonergic Neuronal Cells
Authors: MOUILLET‐RICHARD SOPHIE , SCHNEIDER BENOÎT , PRADINES ELODIE , PIETRI MATHÉA , ERMONVAL MYRIAM , GRASSI JACQUES , RICHARDS J. GRAYSON , MUTEL VINCENT , LAUNAY JEAN‐MARIE , KELLERMANN ODILE
Published: April 2007

Abstract: The cellular prion protein PrPCis the normal counterpart of the scrapie prion protein PrPSc, the main component of the infectious agent of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). It is a ubiquitous cell‐surface glycoprotein, abundantly expressed in neurons, which constitute the targets of TSE pathogenesis. Taking advantage of the 1C11 neuroectodermal cell line, endowed with the capacity to convert into 1C115‐HTserotonergic or 1C11NEnoradrenergic neuronal cells, allowed us to ascribe a signaling function to PrPC. Antibody‐mediated ligation of PrPCrecruits transduction pathways, which involve nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase‐dependent reactive oxygen species production and target the extracellular‐regulated kinases ERK1/2. In fully differentiated cells only, these effectors are under the control of a PrPC‐caveolin‐Fyn platform, located on neuritic extensions. In addition to its proper signaling activity, PrPCmodulates the agonist‐induced response of the three serotonergic G protein–coupled receptors present on the 1C115‐HTdifferentiated cells. The impact of PrPCligation on the receptor couplings depends on the receptor subtype and the pathway considered. The implementation of the PrPC‐caveolin complex again is mandatory for PrPCto exert its action on 5‐HT receptor signaling. Our current data argue that PrPCinterferes with the intensities and/or dynamics of G protein activation by agonist‐bound 5‐HT receptors. By mobilizing transduction cascades controlling the cellular redox state and the ERK1/2 kinases and by altering 5‐HT receptor‐mediated intracellular response, PrPCtakes part in the homeostasis of serotonergic neuronal cells. These findings may have implications for future research aiming at understanding the fate of serotonergic neurons in prion diseases.
Differential Distribution of Alzheimer's Amyloid Precursor Protein Family Variants in Human Sperm
Authors: FARDILHA MARGARIDA , VIEIRA SANDRA I. , BARROS ALBERTO , SOUSA MÁRIO , Da CRUZ e SILVA ODETE A.B. , Da CRUZ e SILVA EDGAR F.
Published: April 2007

Abstract:  The Alzheimer's amyloid precursor protein (APP) is a type I transmembrane glycoprotein with receptor‐like characteristics that originates the Abeta peptide by proteolytic processing. Abeta is potentially cytotoxic and the major component of the cerebral amyloid plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. APP is known to be ubiquitously expressed in mammalian cells, with a broad tissue distribution, and Abeta deposition has been reported to occur also in many cells outside the nervous system. Although many putative functions have been suggested for APP, its precise physiological role remains to be elucidated. As several results point to a role of chronic inflammation in AD pathogenesis and suggest that AD might be a systemic disorder, the importance of APP function in non‐neuronal cells/tissues has gained increased relevance. Previous studies have shown that amyloid precursor‐like protein 2 (APLP2) is highly expressed in testis and sperm, but failed to unambiguously prove the presence of APP itself in mammalian sperm. The use of a battery of available antibodies that detect APP‐specific epitopes or epitopes shared with other APP family members, revealed quite distinct distributions in human sperm. Our results are consistent with previous observations of APLP2 in sperm and unequivocally demonstrate the presence of APP itself in human sperm, thus suggesting a putative role for this important protein in sperm function.
The Effect of Repeated Physical Exercise on Hippocampus and Brain Cortex in Stressed Rats
Authors: FILIPOVIĆ DRAGANA , GAVRILOVIĆ LJUBICA , DRONJAK SLADJANA , RADOJČIĆ MARIJA B.
Published: April 2007

Abstract:  Sensitivity of target cells to glucocorticoids is regulated by the expression of intracellular glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which mediates the effects of glucocorticoids. The level of GR and of its nuclear transporter protein 70 (Hsp70) were followed in hippocampus and brain cortex of adult Wistar rat males exposed to acute (immobilization, cold) and chronic (social isolation, isolation, and 15 min daily swimming) stress or their combinations. Changes in plasma levels of adenocorticotropic hormone and corticosterone were also studied. A significant decrease in cytosol GR and Hsp70 was observed after acute stress. Opposite to that, chronic stress led to negligible changes in both cytosol GR and Hsp70 levels. Isolation, as chronic psychosocial stressor, caused reduced responsiveness to novel acute stressors, judged by the cytosol GR and Hsp70 levels. This was not observed if chronic isolation was combined with 15 min daily swimming prior to acute exposure to immobilization. The data suggest that repeated physical exercise may, at least in some cases, diminish detrimental effects of chronic social isolation on limbic‐hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenocortical axis, as judged by the levels of GR and Hsp70 in the Wistar rat brain.
Insights into Material and Structural Basis of Bone Fragility from Diseases Associated with Fractures: How Determinants of the Biomechanical Properties of Bone Are Compromised by Disease
Authors: Chavassieux P. , Seeman E. , Delmas P. D.
Published: April 2007

Minimal trauma fractures in bone diseases are the result of bone fragility. Rather than considering bone fragility as being the result of a reduced amount of bone, we recognize that bone fragility is the result of changes in the material and structural properties of bone. A better understanding of the contribution of each component of the material composition and structure and how these interact to maintain whole bone strength is obtained by the study of metabolic bone diseases. Disorders of collagen (osteogenesis imperfecta and Paget’s disease of bone), mineral content, composition and distribution (fluorosis and osteomalacia); diseases of high remodeling (postmenopausal osteoporosis, hyperparathyroidism, and hyperthyroidism) and low remodeling (osteopetrosis, pycnodysostosis); and other diseases (idiopathic male osteoporosis, corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis) produce abnormalities in the material composition and structure that lead to bone fragility. Observations in patients and in animal models provide insights on the biomechanical consequences of these illnesses and the nature of the qualities of bone that determine its strength.
Occult malignancy in patients with venous thromboembolism: risk indicators and a diagnostic screening strategy
Authors: Oktar G L , Ergul E G , Kiziltepe U
Published: April 2007

Background: The study was designed to analyse the risk indicators for a possible underlying malignancy and to evaluate whether extensive cancer screening is necessary in all patients with venous thromboembolism or not.

Methods: In total, 126 patients with idiopathic deep venous thrombosis, and 121 patients with secondary deep venous thrombosis of lower extremity and without a known malignancy were studied. A diagnostic screening workup including a clinical history, physical examination, complete blood count, blood sedimentation rate, basic biochemistry panel including hepatic and renal function tests, prostate-specific antigen, a chest X-ray and an abdominopelvic ultrasonography was performed for all patients.

Results: Suspicious findings suggesting an underlying cancer, previous history of venous thromboembolism, bilateral venous thrombosis and associated thrombosis in unusual sites were significantly more common in patients with idiopathic venous thrombosis. A malignancy was detected in 10 of the 126 patients (7.9%) without a known risk factor for deep venous thrombosis. During the follow-up period, a diagnosis of malignancy was established in two patients in the same group.

Conclusion: The risk of an underlying malignancy in patients with idiopathic venous thromboembolism is significantly higher. A moderate screening strategy has the capacity to identify the majority of the malignancies in such patients. We advocate simple laboratory tests, a chest X-ray and an abdominopelvic ultrasonography in order to search for an occult malignancy. A more extensive screening strategy may be considered for patients with suspicious findings for cancer, recurrent or bilateral venous thromboembolism and associated thrombosis in unusual sites.
Transilluminated powered phlebectomy accomplished by local tumescent anaesthesia in the treatment of tributary varicose veins: preliminary clinical results
Authors: de Zeeuw R , Wittens C , Loots M , Neumann M
Published: April 2007

Background: Transilluminated powered phlebectomy (TIPP) is a minimal invasive method of varicose vein surgery that is often performed with spinal or general anaesthesia following the removal of the greater saphenous vein (GSV). The use of exclusively local tumescent anaesthesia (TA) during TIPP has never been reported in the literature.

Objective: To introduce and evaluate the use of TIPP under TA in the treatment of tributary varicose veins.

Methods: Twenty patients with tributary varicose veins were treated with TIPP using the TriVex® System. According to duplex scanning, patients had a competent or previous ligated saphenofemoral junction. All patients were clinically classified atleast as C2 according to the clinical, aetiological anatomical, pathological elements (CEAP) classification. The postoperative follow-up was at one week, one month and three months.

Results: The mean operative time was 40.5 (±10.8) min, associated with an average number of 3.6 (±0.7) incisions. The mean pain score (10-point visual analog scale) during the procedure, at one and three months after treatment were 2.0 (±1.1), 1.6 (±0.9) and 1.2 (±0.5), respectively. Thigh haematoma and complications such as discolouration, indurations and paraesthesia were reported. Fifteen (75%) patients were satisfied with the cosmetic result (based on a 4-point visual analog scale) after three months and 13 (65%) patients were satisfied with the performed treatment. The mean venous clinical severity (VCS) scores among the patients before treatment, one week, four weeks and three months after treatment was 2.7 (±1.5), 3.9 (±1.6), 2.4 (±2.0) and 1.7 (±1.9), respectively.

Conclusions: The use of TA resulted in adequate anaesthesia during TIPP. The pain, during and post-treatment, was minimal and acceptable for the patients. TIPP was associated with a high incidence of haematoma and reduction of the number of incisions. Patients were satisfied with the cosmetic result.
The impact of the creation of a venous surgical centre within the department of cardiovascular surgery at a university hospital
Authors: Christenson J T
Published: April 2007

Background: The establishment of specialty vein clinics has proven beneficial in terms of expansion of clinical volume. Depending on the local situation, the creation of a venous surgical centre may, in addition, result in better collaboration between various specialties, enable active participation in the development and evaluation of new treatment modalities, offer better training/education and provide venues for more complex treatment modalities such as reconstructive surgery of the deep venous system.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyse the impact of the creation of a venous surgical centre under the auspices of a department of cardiovascular surgery at a university hospital.

Methods: A venous surgical centre was established on 1 October 2003, under the direction of one senior surgeon. The impact on clinical activity was measured in terms of patient volume, percentage distribution between venous and arterial surgery and surgical procedures performed, complications following venous surgery as well as evaluation of patient and referring physician satisfaction. Data, from the department's databank, on all patients evaluated and surgically treated for venous and arterial problems from 1 January 2000 to 30 June 2006 were analysed. Number of outpatient clinic visits and operations (patients and surgical procedures) were calculated.

Results: The establishment of the venous surgical centre, without additional funding, led to a significant increase in clinical volume. There was a 433% increase in vein surgical procedures and a 774% increase in outpatient clinic visits (comparing 2002 with 2004). Endovenous laser treatment of varicose veins and reconstructive surgery for the deep venous system was started, and a program for training surgeons was established. Complication rate following varicose vein surgery decreased from 5.8% to 1.2% (hematomas and groin infection). Patient and referring physician satisfaction was documented in 2004 and 2006 using questionnaires.

Conclusions: The establishment of an academic venous surgical centre has proven useful in increasing clinical activity in terms of patient volume, providing more efficient and better continuity of care, ensuring less complications following varicose vein surgery, allowing the introduction of new treatment modalities, and resulting in overwhelming patient and treating physician satisfaction.
Endovenous laser closure of the perforating vein of the leg
Authors: Uchino I J
Published: April 2007

Background: Endovenous procedures have been proven effective in treating axial vein reflux. This report describes a new application, namely endovenous laser therapy of the incompetent perforating vein of the leg.

Objective: To explore an alternative option for treatment of incompetent perforating vein of the leg.

Methods & materials: An 80-year-old male underwent ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy of the neovascularization vessels at the groin and the refluxing vein of the left thigh. Endovenous laser therapy of the incompetent perforating vein was then performed to treat a persisting incompetency of the posterior tibial perforating vein (Cockett's perforating vein).

Results: Follow-up duplex scan showed that not only was the tributary vein (run-off vein) thrombosed, but the perforating vein itself was thrombosed with an intact posterior tibial vein at one-week, three-week, and 12-week follow-up examinations. The only complication was a slight erythematous change of the overlying skin, which subsided spontaneously.

Conclusions: There are many options in the treatment of incompetent perforating vein of the leg. An endovenous procedure should be considered as one of the options, especially where tissue around the incompetent perforating vein of the leg is compromised.
Ford-Otosan Optimizes Its Stocks Using a Six-Sigma Framework
Authors: Denizel Meltem , Ekinci Utkan , Özyurt Güven , Turhan Deniz
Published: April 2007

Ford-Otosan, a producer of light and medium commercial vehicles, wanted to improve order-to-delivery times while reducing costs in the course of expanding its capacity. It started a six-sigma project to reduce finished-goods inventory while ensuring on-time shipping of orders. Finished-goods inventory consists of vehicles ready for shipment and those needing additional parts or testing. We developed an integer-programming model in a spreadsheet environment to reduce the number of vehicles awaiting shipment and a shop-floor control system to handle perturbations caused by vehicles that require additional work. Upon implementing these systems, we obtained and analyzed data from the new process and found major improvements, including savings of about $1.2 million in 2003 and $2.6 million in 2004.
Antecedents and Consequences of Internet Use in Procurement: An Empirical Investigation of U.S. Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Mishra Abhay Nath , Konana Prabhudev , Barua Anitesh
Published: April 2007

This paper examines the antecedents and consequences of Internet use in the procurement process. Drawing upon the resource-based view (RBV) of the firm and the technology, organization, and environment framework, we develop an integrative model that examines the antecedents and consequences of Internet use in two stages—the search stage and the order initiation and completion (OIC) stage—of the procurement process. The model enables us to deconstruct both the usage and the performance aspects of information technology (IT) in business processes, and to provide insights into the enablers of use and business value. The model is estimated with survey data from 412 firms. Our results suggest that while some resources, such as procurement-process digitization, influence Internet use in both the procurement stages, other resources, such as the diversity of organizational procurement knowledge, impact Internet use in only one stage. We also find that Internet use in the OIC stage has a more significant impact on procurement-process performance than use in search. This study extends the digital capabilities and firm performance literature in the context of electronic procurement. This study also contributes to the small but emerging stream of literature that investigates antecedents, the extent, and implications of IT use holistically.
Noteworthy rodent records from the Upper Pleistocene and Holocene of Slovenia / Données remarquables sur les rongeurs du Pléistocène Supérieur et de l'Holocène de Slovénie
Authors: Toškan Borut , Kryštufek Boris
Published: April 2007

Five significant records of rodents are reported from the Upper Pleistocene and Holocene of Slovenia. The identification of black rat Rattus rattus from the Late Bronze/Early Iron Age (ca. 1400–400 cal. BC) at Podjamca is thought to be one of the first records in Mediterranean Europe from the pre-Roman period. Evidence is also presented for the presence of Apodemus agrarius at Podjamca (at least 7800 y BP) and Suhadole (first half of the 1st century AD); the latter falls outside the current species range. The discovery of Dinaromys bogdanovi in Early Mesolithic layers (ca. 9600–7800 y BP) at Podjamca and of Late Mesolithic age (ca. 7800–6000 y BP) at Mala Triglavca are the first Holocene records outside the recent range of the species. Cricetulus migratorius (Podjamca, ca. 9600–7800 y BP; Mala Triglavca, 7800–6000 y BP) and Sicista subtilis (Divje babe I, ca. 80–75 ky BP) are reported for the first time in this part of Europe.
Drive counts for grey brocket deer Mazama gouazoupira in the Bolivian Chaco / Estimation de la population du cerf brun Mazama gouazoupira dans le Chaco de Bolivie par la méthode du dénombrement total
Authors: Noss Andrew J. , Leny Cuéllar Salidas Rosa , Ayala Crespo Jhonny
Published: April 2007

In the context of a community wildlife management program with the Isoseño communities of the Bolivian Chaco, we tested drive sample counts as a method for estimating densities of grey brocket deer ( Mazama gouazoupira ). Drive count density estimates of 12–14/km
(110) facets and dislocation structure of low-angle grain boundaries in YBa2Cu3O7−δ and Y0.7Ca0.3Ba2Cu3O7−δ thin film bicrystals
Authors: Song Xueyan
Published: April 2007

The facet and dislocation structure of 5° and 7° [001]-tilt grain boundaries of YBa2Cu3O7−δ (YBCO) and Y0.7Ca0.3Ba2Cu3O7−δ (YCaBCO) thin film bicrystals were studied. A 24° [001]-tilt YBCO grain boundary was also examined to contrast with the low angle grain boundary faceting behavior. All the low-angle grain boundaries exhibit strong faceting along (100)/(010) and (110) and possess both straight symmetric segments containing equally spaced [100] unit dislocations and step asymmetric segments composed of (110) and (100)/(010) facets. Grain boundaries with a higher degree of meander acquired up to 40% (110) facets. The atomic structure of (110) facets was revealed by the atomic resolution Z-contrast imaging. The (110) facets are dissociated for both the YBCO and YCaBCO grain boundaries. We also found the Ca-doped (110) facets to be more extended along the grain boundary plane, consistent with our earlier finding of a dissociated dislocation core in Ca-doped (100) facets. These 5° and 7° misorientations that we studied are just in the range at which YBCO grain boundaries start to become obstacles to current flow. The above results will be helpful for understanding the current transport across YBCO low-angle grain boundaries.
On the sensitivity characteristics in the determination of the elastic and plastic properties of materials through multiple indentation
Authors: Lan Hongzhi , Venkatesh T.A.
Published: April 2007

A comprehensive study of the sensitivity characteristics associated with the determination of the elasto-plastic properties of a large number of materials using several combinations of dual, triple, and quadruple sharp indentation, and spherical indentation illustrates that: (i) The lowest sensitivity to the determination of plastic properties is observed for the indenter combination that corresponds either to the largest difference in the corresponding representative stresses or the largest difference in the indenter apex angles. (ii) The triple or quadruple sharp indenter combinations considered in the present study do not show a significant improvement in the sensitivity characteristics when compared to that of the dual sharp indentation. (iii) In the determination of plastic properties through spherical indentation where two representative stresses are invoked, the highest and the lowest sensitivity, respectively, are observed for the combinations in which the differences in the representative stresses are the lowest and the highest. The sensitivity is further reduced if a large number of representative stresses are considered for the reverse analysis.
On the indentation contact area of a creeping solid during constant-strain-rate loading by a sharp indenter
Authors: Fujisawa Naoki , Swain Michael V.
Published: April 2007

Poly(methyl methacrylate) was contacted by a Berkovich indenter at a range of constant loading strain rates. This particular loading scheme was used to maintain the strain-rate-dependent elastic modulus and indentation hardness of the creeping solid constant throughout loading. A loading curve analysis method identical to that of Malzbender and de With but based on the elastic-perfectly plastic contact model of Hochstetter et al. [Tribol. Int.36, 973–985, 2003] was used to process the load-displacement curves. Using the analysis method together with the strain-rate-dependent elastic modulus of the creeping solid known a priori, the strain-rate-dependent hardness could then be predicted. The predicted hardness versus strain-rate relationship was compared with that evaluated from the observed topographic images of the residual impressions due to heavier indentations at three constant loading strain rates. Based on this comparison, the elastic-perfectly plastic contact model was shown to be applicable to the creeping solid only when deformation takes place at a quasi-static strain rate.
Targeting the Microtubules in Breast Cancer Beyond Taxanes: The Epothilones
Authors: Cortes Javier , Baselga Jose
Published: April 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe the mechanism of action of epothilones and the different epothilone analogs in clinical development.Discuss the current status and the results of phase II trials with epothilone analogs in metastatic breast cancer.Explain why epothilone may have utility in combination with other cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents for treating metastatic breast cancer.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
FDA Drug Approval Summary: Bevacizumab Plus FOLFOX4 as Second-Line Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Cohen Martin H. , Gootenberg Joe , Keegan Patricia , Pazdur Richard
Published: April 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Add bevacizumab (Avastin®) to the FOLFOX4 chemotherapy regimen.Evaluate the contribution of bevacizumab and FOLFOX4 to treatment results.Understand FDA criteria for the analysis of response rate and progression-free survival.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
Characteristics of male and female prisoners involved in bullying behavior
Authors: Ireland Jane L. , Archer John , Power Christina L.
Published: April 2007

This study explores bullying behavior in a larger and more representative sample than previous prison‐based research. It has two core aims, first to explore the nature of bullying in relation to indirect and direct aggression and, second, to explore the predictors of bully‐category membership with particular reference to behavioral characteristics. Participants were adult men (n=728) and women (n=525) prisoners. All completed a behavioral measure of behavior indicative of bullying (Direct and Indirect Prisoner behavior Checklist, DIPC) that also explored prison‐based behavior such as negative acts towards staff or prison rules, positive acts and drug‐related behavior. Indirect aggression was, as predicted, reported more frequently than direct aggression, although this only held for perpetration. Bully‐victims, as predicted, showed more negative behavior. Pure bullies and pure victims also showed more negative behavior than the other categories. The findings are discussed in relation to the environment in which bullying behavior is being assessed and with attention to the possible motivations underlying both bullying and negative behavior. Directions for future research are suggested. Aggr. Behav. 33:1–10, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alcohol‐aggression expectancies and dispositional rumination moderate the effect of alcohol consumption on alcohol‐related aggression and hostility
Authors: Borders Ashley , Barnwell Sara Smucker , Earleywine Mitch
Published: April 2007

Alcohol consumption increases aggression, but only in some drinkers. This study extends previous work to show how expectancies for alcohol‐induced aggression and dispositional rumination moderate the link between alcohol consumption and alcohol‐related aggression and hostility in a sample of 285 men and women. Alcohol‐aggression expectancies and quantity of alcohol interacted to predict alcohol‐related hostility and aggression. Trait rumination moderated the effect of alcohol consumption on aggressive acts. Finally, women who ruminated were more likely to report alcohol‐related aggression than were men who ruminated. These results suggest that alcohol expectancies for aggression and rumination constitute two important cognitive facilitators of alcohol‐related aggression and hostility, and that gender plays an important role in these relations. Aggr. Behav. 33:327–338, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Organic Tube/Rod Hybrid Nanofibers with Adjustable Segment Lengths by Bidirectional Template Wetting
Authors: Kriha O. , Zhao L. , Pippel E. , Gösele U. , Wehrspohn R. B. , Wendorff J. H. , Steinhart M. , Greiner A.
Published: April 2007

Segmented nanotubes and nanorods exhibiting a variation in their composition along their long axes represent a new and exciting class of nanomaterials. It is shown that bidirectional template wetting enables the integration of functional and complex polymeric materials into segmented nanofibers. First, a template is wetted under conditions in which a solid polymeric thread with adjustable length fills a pore segment starting from one template surface. Subsequently, a second wetting step starting from the opposite template surface yields segmented nanofibers. The exploitation of different wetting mechanisms results in the formation of tube/rod hybrid nanofibers.