bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory effect of ribbon-type NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides on osteoclast induction and activity in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Kunugiza Yasuo , Tomita Tetsuya , Tomita Naruya , Morishita Ryuichi , Yoshikawa Hideki
Published: July 2012

In this study we examined the effect of ribbon-type (circular-type) NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (RNODN) on osteoclast induction and activity. We extracted bone marrow cells from the femurs of rats and incubated non-adherent cells with receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). First, transfer efficiency into osteoclasts and their precursors, resistance to exonuclease, and binding activity of decoy to NF-κB were examined. Next, to examine the effect of RNODN on osteoclast induction and activity, osteoclast differentiation and pit formation assays were performed. RNODN were injected into the ankle joints of rats with collagen-induced arthritis. Joint destruction and osteoclast activity were examined by histological study. The resistance of RNODN to exonuclease and their binding activity on NF-κB were both greater than those of phosphorothionated NF-κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides. The absolute number of multinucleate cells scoring positive for tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase was significantly decreased in the RNODN-treated group. The average calcified matrix resorbed area was significantly decreased in the RNODN-treated group. Histological study showed marked suppression of joint destruction and osteoclast activity by intra-articular injection of RNODN. These results suggest the inhibitory effect of RNODN on the induction and activity of osteoclasts. Direct intra-articular injection of RNODN into the joints may be an effective strategy for the treatment of arthritis.
B-cell depletion therapy in patients with diffuse systemic sclerosis associates with a significant decrease in PDGFR expression and activation in spindle-like cells in the skin
Authors: Daoussis Dimitrios , Tsamandas Athanassios C , Liossis Stamatis-Nick C , Antonopoulos Ioannis , Karatza Elli , Yiannopoulos Georgios , Andonopoulos Andrew P
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Recently, several studies assessing the clinical efficacy of rituximab (RTX) in systemic sclerosis (SSc) have reported encouraging results. We aimed at exploring whether RTX exerts its beneficial effects on fibrosis through attenuation of platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) pathway activation.

Methods

We immunohistochemically assessed skin biopsies obtained from eight patients with SSc prior to and 6 months following RTX treatment, three control SSc patients (at the same time points) and three healthy subjects. We assessed the expression of platelet-derived growth factor, PDGFR and phosphorylated (activated) PDGFR.

Results

We found a strong correlation of PDGFRα and PDGFRβ expression on spindle-like cells and collagen deposition in SSc biopsies (r = 0.97 and r = 0.96 for PDGFRα and PDGFRβ, respectively; P < 0.0001 for both), indicating a strong link between PDGFR expression and fibrosis. Expression of PDGFRα and PDGFRβ in the papillary dermis significantly decreased following RTX administration (mean ± standard error of the mean at baseline vs. 6 months, respectively: PDGFRα, 42.05 ± 5.03 vs. 26.85 ± 3.00, P = 0.004; and PDGFRβ, 37.14 ± 4.94 vs. 24.01 ± 3.27, P = 0.012). Similarly, expression of phosphorylated PDGFRα and PDGFRβ in the papillary dermis significantly decreased following RTX administration (P = 0.006 and P = 0.013 for phospho-PDGFRα and phospho-PDGFRβ, respectively). No changes in platelet-derived growth factor tissue expression or serum levels were found following RTX treatment.

Conclusion

RTX may favorably affect skin fibrosis through attenuation of PDGFR expression and activation, a finding that supports a disease-modifying role of RTX in SSc. Large-scale, multicenter studies are needed to further explore the efficacy of RTX in SSc.
Anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha therapy improves insulin sensitivity in normal-weight but not in obese patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Stavropoulos-Kalinoglou Antonios , Metsios Giorgos S , Panoulas Vasileios F , Nightingale Peter , Koutedakis Yiannis , Kitas George D
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Insulin resistance (IR), a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease, is common among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Inflammation, and especially tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), has been associated with IR, and the administration of anti-TNFα agents is suggested to improve insulin sensitivity. However obesity, a potent contributor to IR, may limit the beneficial effects of anti-TNFα medication on IR. The aim of this study is to compare the effects of anti-TNFα therapy on IR between normal-weight and obese patients with RA.

Methods

Patients who were normal-weight with IR (N+IR) or obese with IR (O+IR) and had embarked on anti-TNFα treatment, participated. Assessments included body mass index (BMI), insulin sensitivity (Homeostasis Model Assessment of insulin resistance, HOMA and the Quantitative Insulin sensitivity Check Index, QUICKI), and RA disease characteristics before and following six months of anti-TNFα treatment. Their results were compared to matched (for age, gender, BMI, disease duration and smoking status) normal-weight patients without IR (N-IR) and obese without IR (N-IR), respectively. In total, 32 patients were assessed for this study, with 8 in each group.

Results

Following six months of treatment, disease activity was significantly reduced in all groups (P < 0.05) to a similar extent (P for differences between groups > 0.05 in all cases). In the total population, changes in HOMA (mean reduction at 6 m = -0.2 ± 0.1; P = 0.088) and QUICKI (mean increase at 6 m = 0.03 ± 0.022; P = 0.092) after treatment were not statistically significant, though a trend towards improvement was observed. However, N+IR patients showed a significant decrease in HOMA (mean reduction at 6 m = -0.54 ± 0.2; P = 0.002) and increase in QUICKI (mean increase at 6 m = 0.046 ± 0.02; P = 0.011). These changes were significantly different compared to the other groups (P < 0.05 in all cases). Multivariable analyses showed that the change in Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), and the change in C-Reactive Protein (CRP) associated with the improvement in HOMA (ESR: F1-7 = 5.143, P = 0.019; CRP: F1-7 = 3.122, P = 0.022) and QUICKI (ESR: F1-7 = 3.814, P = 0.021; CRP: F1-7 = 2.67; P = 0.041) only in the N+IR group.

Conclusions

Anti-TNFα therapy, through controlling inflammation, seems to improve insulin sensitivity in normal-weight RA patients with insulin resistance, but is not sufficient to achieving the same beneficial effect in obese RA patients with insulin resistance.
Endometrial cancer survival after breast cancer in relation to tamoxifen treatment: Pooled results from three countries
Authors: Jones Michael E , van Leeuwen Flora E , Hoogendoorn Wilhelmina E , Mourits Marian JE , Hollema Harry , van Boven Hester , Press Michael F , Bernstein Leslie , Swerdlow Anthony J
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Tamoxifen is an effective treatment for breast cancer but an undesirable side-effect is an increased risk of endometrial cancer, particularly rare tumor types associated with poor prognosis. We investigated whether tamoxifen therapy increases mortality among breast cancer patients subsequently diagnosed with endometrial cancer.

Methods

We pooled case-patient data from the three largest case-control studies of tamoxifen in relation to endometrial cancer after breast cancer (1,875 patients: Netherlands, 765; United Kingdom, 786; United States, 324) and collected follow-up information on vital status. Breast cancers were diagnosed in 1972 to 2005 with endometrial cancers diagnosed in 1978 to 2006. We used Cox proportional hazards survival analysis to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

A total of 1,104 deaths occurred during, on average, 5.8 years following endometrial cancer (32% attributed to breast cancer, 25% to endometrial cancer). Mortality from endometrial cancer increased significantly with unfavorable non-endometrioid morphologies (P < 0.0001), International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics staging system for gynecological malignancy (FIGO) stage (P < 0.0001) and age (P < 0.0001). No overall association was observed between tamoxifen treatment and endometrial cancer mortality (HR = 1.17 (95% CI: (0.89 to 1.55)). Tamoxifen use for at least five years was associated with increased endometrial cancer mortality (HR = 1.59 (1.13 to 2.25)). This association appeared to be due primarily to the excess of unfavorable histologies and advanced stage in women using tamoxifen for five or more years since the association with mortality was no longer significant after adjustment for morphological type and FIGO stage (HR = 1.37 (0.97 to 1.93)). Those patients with endometrioid tumors, who stopped tamoxifen use at least five years before their endometrial cancer diagnosis, had a greater mortality risk from endometrial cancer than endometrioid patients with no tamoxifen exposure (HR = 2.11 (1.13 to 3.94)). The explanation for this latter observation is not apparent.

Conclusions

Patients with endometrial cancer after breast cancer who received tamoxifen treatment for five years for breast cancer have greater endometrial cancer mortality risk than those who did not receive tamoxifen. This can be attributed to non-endometrioid histological subtypes with poorer prognosis among long term tamoxifen users.
Incidence, organ dysfunction and mortality in severe sepsis: a Spanish multicentre study
Authors: Blanco Jesús , Muriel-Bombín Arturo , Sagredo Víctor , Taboada Francisco , Gandía Francisco , Tamayo Luís , Collado Javier , García-Labattut Ángel , Carriedo Demetrio , Valledor Manuel , De Frutos Martín , López María-Jesús , Caballero Ana , Guerra José , Álvarez Braulio , Mayo Agustín , Villar Jesús ,   the Grupo de Estudios y Análisis en Cuidados Intensivos (G.R.E.C.I.A.)
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Sepsis is a leading cause of admission to non-cardiological intensive care units (ICUs) and the second leading cause of death among ICU patients. We present the first extensive dataset on the epidemiology of severe sepsis treated in ICUs in Spain.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, observational, multicentre cohort study, carried out over two 3-month periods in 2002. Our aims were to determine the incidence of severe sepsis among adults in ICUs in a specific area in Spain, to determine the early (48 h) ICU and hospital mortality rates, as well as factors associated with the risk of death.

Results

A total of 4,317 patients were admitted and 2,619 patients were eligible for the study; 311 (11.9%) of these presented at least 1 episode of severe sepsis, and 324 (12.4%) episodes of severe sepsis were recorded. The estimated accumulated incidence for the population was 25 cases of severe sepsis attended in ICUs per 100,000 inhabitants per year. The mean logistic organ dysfunction system (LODS) upon admission was 6.3; the mean sepsis-related organ failure assessment (SOFA) score on the first day was 9.6. Two or more organ failures were present at diagnosis in 78.1% of the patients. A microbiological diagnosis of the infection was reached in 209 episodes of sepsis (64.5%) and the most common clinical diagnosis was pneumonia (42.8%). A total of 169 patients (54.3%) died in hospital, 150 (48.2%) of these in the ICU. The mortality in the first 48 h was 14.8%. Factors associated with early death were haematological failure and liver failure at diagnosis, acquisition of the infection prior to ICU admission, and total LODS score on admission. Factors associated with death in the hospital were age, chronic alcohol abuse, increased McCabe score, higher LODS on admission, ΔSOFA 3-1 (defined as the difference in the total SOFA scores on day 3 and on day 1), and the difference of the area under the curve of the SOFA score throughout the first 15 days.

Conclusions

We found a high incidence of severe sepsis attended in the ICU and high ICU and hospital mortality rates. The high prevalence of multiple organ failure at diagnosis and the high mortality in the first 48 h suggests delays in diagnosis, in initial resuscitation, and/or in initiating appropriate antibiotic treatment.
Ventilator-associated pneumonia in patients undergoing major heart surgery: an incidence study in Europe
Authors: Hortal Javier , Muñoz Patricia , Cuerpo Gregorio , Litvan Hector , Rosseel Peter M , Bouza Emilio ,   the European Study Group on Nosocomial Infections,   the European Workgroup of Cardiothoracic Intensivists
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Patients undergoing major heart surgery (MHS) represent a special subpopulation at risk for nosocomial infections. Postoperative infection is the main non-cardiac complication after MHS and has been clearly related to increased morbidity, use of hospital resources and mortality. Our aim was to determine the incidence, aetiology, risk factors and outcome of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in patients who have undergone MHS in Europe.

Methods

Our study was a prospective study of patients undergoing MHS in Europe who developed suspicion of VAP. During a one-month period, participating units submitted a protocol of all patients admitted to their units who had undergone MHS.

Results

Overall, 25 hospitals in eight different European countries participated in the study. The number of patients intervened for MHS was 986. Fifteen patients were excluded because of protocol violations. One or more nosocomial infections were detected in 43 (4.4%) patients. VAP was the most frequent nosocomial infection (2.1%; 13.9 episodes per 1000 days of mechanical ventilation). The microorganisms responsible for VAP in this study were: Enterobacteriaceae (45%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (20%), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (10%) and a range of other microorganisms. We identified the following significant independent risk factors for VAP: ascending aorta surgery (odds ratio (OR) = 6.22; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.69 to 22.89), number of blood units transfused (OR = 1.08 per unit transfused; 95% CI = 1.04 to 1.13) and need for re-intervention (OR = 6.65; 95% CI = 2.10 to 21.01). The median length of stay in the intensive care unit was significantly longer (P < 0.001) in patients with VAP than in patients without VAP (23 days versus 2 days). Death was significantly more frequent (P < 0.001) in patients with VAP (35% versus 2.3%).

Conclusions

Patients undergoing aortic surgery and those with complicated post-intervention courses, requiring multiple transfusions or re-intervention, constitute a high-risk group probably requiring more active preventive measures.
Cancer of the ampulla of Vater: analysis of the whole genome sequence exposes a potential therapeutic vulnerability
Authors: Demeure Michael J , Craig David W , Sinari Shripad , Moses Tracy M , Christoforides Alexis , Dinh Jennifer , Izatt Tyler , Aldrich Jessica , Decker Ardis , Baker Angela , Cherni Irene , Watanabe April , Koep Lawrence , Lake Douglas , Hostetter Galen , Trent Jeffrey M , Von Hoff Daniel D , Carpten John D
Published: July 2012

Background

Recent advances in the treatment of cancer have focused on targeting genomicaberrations with selective therapeutic agents. In rare tumors, where large-scaleclinical trials are daunting, this targeted genomic approach offers a newperspective and hope for improved treatments. Cancers of the ampulla of Vater arerare tumors that comprise only about 0.2% of gastrointestinal cancers.Consequently, they are often treated as either distal common bile duct orpancreatic cancers.

Methods

We analyzed DNA from a resected cancer of the ampulla of Vater and whole blood DNAfrom a 63 year-old man who underwent a pancreaticoduodenectomy by whole genomesequencing, achieving 37× and 40× coverage, respectively. We determinedsomatic mutations and structural alterations.

Results

We identified relevant aberrations, including deleterious mutations of KRAS and SMAD4 as well as a homozygous focal deletion of the PTEN tumor suppressor gene. These findings suggest that these tumors have adistinct oncogenesis from either common bile duct cancer or pancreatic cancer.Furthermore, this combination of genomic aberrations suggests a therapeuticcontext for dual mTOR/PI3K inhibition.

Conclusions

Whole genome sequencing can elucidate an oncogenic context and expose potentialtherapeutic vulnerabilities in rare cancers.
Seismic geomorphology of a channel reservoir in lower Minghuazhen Formation, Laizhouwan subbasin, China
Authors: Wang Zhiguo , Yin Cheng , Fan Ting’en , Lei Xiaolan
Published: July 2012

We apply seismic geomorphology techniques to quantify morphometrics of a Neogene channel system in Bohai Bay, China. The primary goals of this study are to trace and understand the shapes of complex meander channels toward the development of sedimentary models of channel distribution. First, 11 seismic geometrical attributes were extracted to provide large quantities of morphometric data on the channel plan-view images of four fluvial phases. These data were then coanalyzed to yield the desired five morphometric measures: channel width, meander-belt width, meander length, meander-arc height, and sinuosity. Finally, the relationships, if any, among the five geometric measures were assessed to understand channel reservoir distribution in the study area. A bar graph of sinuosity shows three types of dominant grain size transported by the flow in the channel. A cumulative probability curve of channel width helps to estimate the actual reservoir size. Crossplot analyses reveal relationships between pairs of channel morphometric parameters, which in turn provide the key constraints on channel variability for reservoir modeling and flow simulation in the Lower Minghuazhen Formation, Laizhouwan subbasin, Bohai Bay.
Fascin controls neuronal class-specific dendrite arbor morphology
Authors: Nagel Julia , Delandre Caroline , Zhang Yun , Förstner Friedrich , Moore Adrian W. , Tavosanis Gaia
Published: July 2012

The branched morphology of dendrites represents a functional hallmark of distinct neuronal types. Nonetheless, how diverse neuronal class-specific dendrite branches are generated is not understood. We investigated specific classes of sensory neurons of Drosophila larvae to address the fundamental mechanisms underlying the formation of distinct branch types. We addressed the function of fascin, a conserved actin-bundling protein involved in filopodium formation, in class III and class IV sensory neurons. We found that the terminal branchlets of different classes of neurons have distinctive dynamics and are formed on the basis of molecularly separable mechanisms; in particular, class III neurons require fascin for terminal branching whereas class IV neurons do not. In class III neurons, fascin controls the formation and dynamics of terminal branchlets. Previous studies have shown that transcription factor combinations define dendrite patterns; we find that fascin represents a downstream component of such programs, as it is a major effector of the transcription factor Cut in defining class III-specific dendrite morphology. Furthermore, fascin defines the morphological distinction between class III and class IV neurons. In fact, loss of fascin function leads to a partial conversion of class III neurons to class IV characteristics, while the reverse effect is obtained by fascin overexpression in class IV neurons. We propose that dedicated molecular mechanisms underlie the formation and dynamics of distinct dendrite branch types to elicit the accurate establishment of neuronal circuits.
BCDO2 acts as a carotenoid scavenger and gatekeeper for the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway
Authors: Lobo Glenn P. , Isken Andrea , Hoff Sylvia , Babino Darwin , von Lintig Johannes
Published: July 2012

Carotenoids and their metabolites are widespread and exert key biological functions in living organisms. In vertebrates, the carotenoid oxygenase BCMO1 converts carotenoids such as β,β-carotene to retinoids, which are required for embryonic pattern formation and cell differentiation. Vertebrate genomes encode a structurally related protein named BCDO2 but its physiological function remains undefined. Here, we show that BCDO2 is expressed as an oxidative stress-regulated protein during zebrafish development. Targeted knockdown of this mitochondrial enzyme resulted in anemia at larval stages. Marker gene analysis and staining for hemoglobin revealed that erythropoiesis was not impaired but that erythrocytes underwent apoptosis in BCDO2-deficient larvae. To define the mechanism of this defect, we have analyzed the role of BCDO2 in human cell lines. We found that carotenoids caused oxidative stress in mitochondria that eventually led to cytochrome c release, proteolytic activation of caspase 3 and PARP1, and execution of the apoptotic pathway. Moreover, BCDO2 prevented this induction of the apoptotic pathway by carotenoids. Thus, our study identifying BCDO2 as a crucial protective component against oxidative stress establishes this enzyme as mitochondrial carotenoid scavenger and a gatekeeper of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway.
Identification of a novel developmental mechanism in the generation of mesothelia
Authors: Winters Nichelle I. , Thomason Rebecca T. , Bader David M.
Published: July 2012

Mesothelium is the surface layer of all coelomic organs and is crucial for the generation of their vasculature. Still, our understanding of the genesis of this essential cell type is restricted to the heart where a localized exogenous population of cells, the proepicardium, migrates to and envelops the myocardium supplying mesothelial, vascular and stromal cell lineages. Currently it is not known whether this pattern of development is specific to the heart or applies broadly to other coelomic organs. Using two independent long-term lineage-tracing studies, we demonstrate that mesothelial progenitors of the intestine are intrinsic to the gut tube anlage. Furthermore, a novel chick-quail chimera model of gut morphogenesis reveals these mesothelial progenitors are broadly distributed throughout the gut primordium and are not derived from a localized and exogenous proepicardium-like source of cells. These data demonstrate an intrinsic origin of mesothelial cells to a coelomic organ and provide a novel mechanism for the generation of mesothelial cells.
Regulation of dendritic arborization by BCR Rac1 GTPase-activating protein, a new substrate of protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor T
Authors: Park A-Reum , Oh Daeyoung , Lim So-Hee , Choi Jeonghoon , Moon Jeonghee , Yu Dae-Yeol , Park Sung Goo , Heisterkamp Nora , Kim Eunjoon , Myung Pyung-Keun , Lee Jae-Ran
Published: July 2012

Dendritic arborization is important for neuronal development as well as the formation of neural circuits. Rac1 is a member of the Rho GTPase family which serves as regulators of neuronal development. BCR (breakpoint cluster region) is a Rac1 GTPase-activating protein which is abundantly expressed in the central nervous system. Here we show that BCR plays a key role in neuronal development. Dendritic arborization and actin polymerization were attenuated by overexpression of BCR in hippocampal neurons. Knockdown of BCR using specific shRNAs increased the dendritic arborization as well as actin polymerization. The number of dendrites of null mutant BCR−/− mice was considerably increased compared with wild type. The function of the BCR GTPase-activating domain could be controlled by PTPRT (protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor T) expressed principally in the brain. We demonstrate that tyrosine 177 of BCR was the main target of PTPRT and the BCR mutant mimicking dephosphorylation of tyrosine 177 alleviated the attenuation of dendritic arborization. Additionally the attenuated dendritic arborization by BCR overexpression was relieved upon co-expression of PTPRT. When PTPRT was knocked down by specific shRNA, the dendritic arborization was significantly reduced. The function of the BCR GTPase-activating domain was controlled by means of conversions between the intra- and inter-molecular interactions that are finely regulated through the dephosphorylation of a specific tyrosine residue by PTPRT. We thus show conclusively that BCR is a novel substrate of PTPRT and that BCR is involved in the regulation of neuronal development via control of the BCR GTPase-activating domain function by PTPRT.
The distinct wiring between cell cycle regulation and the widely conserved Morphogenesis-Related (MOR) pathway in the fungus Ustilago maydis determines the morphological outcome
Authors: Sartorel Elodie , Pérez-Martín José
Published: July 2012

The MOR (Morphogenesis-related NDR kinase) pathway regulates morphogenesis in fungi. In spite of the high conservation of its components, impairing their functions results in highly divergent cellular responses depending on the fungal species. The reasons for such differences are unclear. Here we propose that the species-specific connections between the cell cycle regulation and the MOR pathway could be in part responsible for these divergences. We based our conclusion on the characterization of the MOR pathway in the fungus Ustilago maydis. Each gene that encodes proteins of this pathway in U. maydis was deleted. All mutants exhibited a constitutive hyperpolarized growth contrasting with the loss of polarity observed in other fungi. Using a conditional allele of the central NDR kinase Ukc1, we found that impairing MOR function resulted in an elongated G2 phase. This cell cycle delay appears to be the consequence of an increase in Cdk1 inhibitory phosphorylation. Strikingly, abrogation of the inhibitory Cdk1 phosphorylation prevents the hyperpolarized growth associated with MOR pathway depletion. We found that enlarged G2 phase resulted in higher levels of expression of crk1, a conserved kinase that promotes polar growth in U. maydis. Deletion of crk1 also abolished the dramatic activation of polar growth in cells lacking MOR pathway. Taken together, our results suggest that Cdk1 inhibitory phosphorylation may act as an integrator of signaling cascades regulating fungal morphogenesis and that the distinct morphological response observed in U. maydis upon impairment of the MOR pathway could be due to a cell cycle deregulation.
Symmetry-Itemized Enumeration of Cubane Derivatives as Three-Dimensional Entities by the Partial-Cycle-Index Method of the USCI Approach
Authors: Fujita Shinsaku
Published: July 2012

By placing chiral and achiral proligands on the eight positions of a cubane skeleton of Oh, resulting cubane derivatives are counted as three-dimensional (3D) structural isomers by the partial-cycle-index (PCI) method of the unit-subduced-cycle-index (USCI) approach (S. Fujita, Symmetry and Combinatorial Enumeration in Chemistry, Springer-Verlag, 1991; S. Fujita, Diagrammatical Approach to Molecular Symmetry and Enumeration of Stereoisomers, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, 2007), where the numbers of 3D structural isomers with given constitutional formulas are itemized with the subsymmetries of Oh. For this purpose, partial cycle indices with chirality fittingness (PCI-CFs) for respective subgroups of Oh are calculated by using unit subduced cycle indices with chirality fittingness (USCI-CFs) and an inverse matrix of the mark table of Oh. After introducing ligand-inventory functions into the PCI-CFs, expansions of the resulting equations provide us with generating functions for giving the numbers of 3D structural isomers. A Maple program source for counting cubane derivatives as 3D structural isomers is given as an example of practical calculation for listing the resulting data in tabular forms.
Enforcement of Labor Regulation and Informality
Authors: Almeida Rita , Carneiro Pedro
Published: July 2012

Enforcement of labor regulations in the formal sector may drive workers to informality because they increase the costs of formal labor. But better compliance with mandated benefits makes it attractive to be a formal employee. We show that, in locations with frequent inspections, workers pay for mandated benefits by receiving lower wages. Wage rigidity prevents downward adjustment at the bottom of the wage distribution. As a result, lower paid formal sector jobs become attractive to some informal workers, inducing them to want to move to the formal sector. (JEL J31, J63, J88, K31, O15)
Numbering of vertebrae on MRI using a PACS cross-referencing tool
Authors: Paik Nam Chull , Lim Chun Soo , Jang Ho Suk
Published: July 2012

Background

For the detection and documentation of numeric variations on spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), different techniques have previously been introduced. However, these methods require additional special imaging algorithms, software, or devices. We intend to introduce a vertebral numbering method using the existing picture archiving and communication system (PACS) and MRI system.

Purpose

To assess the accuracy of a method for numbering presacral vertebrae based on the cross-referencing of two sagittal MRI series.

Material and Methods

This study was a retrospective review of 224 consecutive patients who underwent both lumbar MRI with cervicothoracic scan and whole spine radiographic examinations. A radiologist and a neurosurgeon independently counted the number of presacral vertebrae in a cranial-to-caudal approach with cross-referencing of cervicothoracic and lumbar MRI sagittal series on the PACS workstation. Radiographic numbering from the cervical through the thoracic to the lumbar vertebrae, as a reference standard, was completed independently by the two reviewers. An analysis of the inter-observer and intermodality agreements of radiography and MRI was done.

Results

In all cases except one, concordant numbering existed between the two modalities of MRI cross-referencing and radiographs combination. Both observers agreed completely, with no inter-observer discordance.

Conclusion

The number of vertebrae could be identified consistently by counting caudally from C2 with cross-referencing cervicothoracic and lumbosacral sagittal MRI scans on the PACS workstation.
Is the aim of the English health care system to maximize QALYs?
Authors: Shah Koonal , Praet Cecile , Devlin Nancy , Sussex Jonathan , Appleby John , Parkin David
Published: July 2012

Objectives:

To compare the types of benefit considered relevant by the English Department of Health with those included by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) when conducting economic evaluations of options for spending limited health care resources.

Methods:

We analysed all policy Impact Assessments (IAs)carried out by the Department of Health(DH)in 2008 and 2009. The stated benefits of each policy were extracted and thematic analysis was used to categorise these.

Results:

51 Impact Assessments were analysed, eight of which mentioned quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gains as a benefit. 18 benefits other than QALY gains were identified. Apart from improving health outcomes, commonly referred to benefits included: reducing costs, improving quality of care, and enhancing patient experience. Many of the policies reviewed were implemented on the basis of benefits unrelated to health outcome. The methods being used to apply a monetary valuation to QALY gains (in cost-benefit calculations) are not consistent across Impact Assessments or with NICE's stated threshold range.

Conclusions:

The Department of Health and NICE approach resource allocation decisions in different ways, based upon overlapping but not congruent considerations and underlying principles. Given that all these decisions affect the allocation of the same fixed health care budget, there is a case for establishing a uniform framework for option appraisal and priority setting so as to avoid allocative inefficiency. The same applies to any other national health care system.
Long-Term Athletic Development across Different Age Groups and Gender from Portuguese Basketball Players
Authors: Leite Nuno M. C. , Sampaio Jaime E.
Published: July 2012

One of the main purposes of this study was to examine the quantity and type of sporting activities involved in acquiring high levels of basketball proficiency. Through a previously validated questionnaire, a sample composed of Portuguese basketball players ( n = 1170) provided detailed information about the quantity and type of sporting activities undertaken throughout their sports career. The results suggested that players involved in the WIN stage had an earlier start in sport ( p <.01) and a later specialization in basketball ( p <.01). Time dedicated to all forms of practice and training in every developmental stage contributed to differentiate the players under examination as the WIN groups reported spending higher amounts of hours per week involved in those activities, in every stage of athletic development ( p <.01). The results of this study allowed identifying differences in basketball development programs according to gender and should influence coaches' intervention in talent identification and early development of elite basketball players.
Scholarship Status and Gender Differences in Motivation among U.S. Collegiate Track and Field Athletes
Authors: Cremades J. Gualberto , Flournoy Brandice , Gomez Carolina B.
Published: July 2012

The purpose of the current study was to determine differences in motivation between scholarship and non-scholarship collegiate male and female athletes. Participants ( n = 162) were collegiate track and field athletes in the U.S.A. The Sport Motivation Scale (SMS) was used to assess participant's intrinsic and extrinsic motivation as well as amotivation. A 2 × 2 factorial MANOVA was used to determine scholarship status and gender differences. Significant main effects were found for scholarship status ( p < .01) and gender ( p < .01). A significant interaction effect was found for scholarship status by gender ( p < .05). This study further supports cognitive evaluation theory (CET) in understanding sport motivation and results indicate that external rewards are related to lower levels of intrinsic motivation and higher levels of extrinsic motivation and slightly lower levels of amotivation. In addition, the study supports that gender is an important factor to understand motivation among athletes.
Experts' Content Knowledge of Fundamentals
Authors: Grant Matthew A. , McCullick Bryan A. , Schempp Paul G. , Grant J. Tobin
Published: July 2012

This study examined the content knowledge of expert sport instructors in order to understand the nature of fundamentals in sport instruction. Data were collected through a questionnaire of expert golf teachers (n=50) from GOLF Magazine's Top 100 Teachers list. These expert golf instructors were asked to identify what they believed were the five fundamentals of golf. Researchers found disagreement within the population. Two groups were then identified – the Element Instructors and Compound Instructors - based upon similar responses. Element Instructors were characterized by agreement within their group that grip, posture, and alignment were the fundamental skills of golf. Compound Instructors had no set of agreed-upon fundamentals. Researchers found no discernible rationales for this division-based on collected data. These results suggest that at least two “schools of thought” regarding content fundamentals exist and could indicate disagreement among expert golf instructors as a whole.
Many Drops Interactions II: Simulation of Coalescence, Flocculation and Fragmentation of Multiple Colliding Drops with Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics
Authors: Acevedo-Malavé Alejandro , García-Sucre Méximo
Published: July 2012

In this study, the SPH method is applied to simulate for the first time the multiple hydrodynamics collisions and the formation of clusters of equally sized liquid drops in three-dimensional space. Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics is a Lagrangian mesh-free formalism and has been useful to model continuous fluid. This formalism is employed to solve the Navier-Stokes equations by replacing the fluid with a set of particles. These particles are interpolation points from which properties of the fluid can be determined. We observe that when the velocity of collision varies between 0.2 mm/ms and 30.0 mm/ms different results may arise, such as: coalescence, fragmentation and formation of clusters of liquid drops. The velocity vector fields formed inside the drops during the collision process are shown.
Quantitative Analysis of Accuracy of Voidage Computations in CFD-DEM Simulations
Authors: Khawaja H. A. , Scott S. A. , Virk M. S. , Moatamedi M.
Published: July 2012

CFD-DEM (Computational Fluid Dynamics – Discrete Element Modelling) is a two-phase flow numerical modelling technique, where the Eulerian method is used for the fluid and the Lagrangian method for the particles. The two phases are coupled by a fluid-particle interaction force (i.e. drag force) which is computed using a correlation. In a two-phase flow, one critical parameter is the voidage (or void fraction), which is defined as the ratio of the volume occupied by the fluid to the total volume. In a CFD-DEM simulation the local voidage is computed by calculating the volume of particles in a given fluid cell. For spherical particles, this computation is difficult when a particle is on the boundary of fluid cells. In this case, it is usual to compute the volume of a particle in a fluid cell approximately. One such approximation divides the volume of a particle into each cell in the same ratio as an equivalent cube of width equal to the particle diameter. Whilst this approach is computationally straight forward, the approximation introduces an error in the voidage computation. Here we estimate the error by comparing the approximate volume calculation with an exact (numerical) computation of the volume of a particle in a fluid cell. The results show that the error varies with the position of the particle relative to the cell boundary. A new approach is suggested which limits the error to less than 2.5 %, without significantly increasing the computational complexity.
Thermosolutal Convection in Compressible Walters' (Model B′) Fluid Permeated with Suspended Particles in a Brinkman Porous Medium
Authors: Rana G. C. , Thakur R. C. , Kumar S.
Published: July 2012

In this paper, the thermosolutal convection in compressible Walters' (model B′) elastico-viscous fluid permeated with suspended particles in a porous medium is considered. For the porous medium, the Brinkman model is employed. By applying normal mode analysis method, the dispersion relation has been derived and solved analytically. It is observed that the medium permeability, suspended particles, gravity field and viscoelasticity introduce oscillatory modes. For stationary convection, it is observed that the Darcy number and stable solute gradient have stabilizing effects whereas the suspended particles and medium permeability has destabilizing effects on the system. The effects of Darcy number, stable solute gradient, suspended particles and medium permeability has also been shown graphically.
Evaluating the Quality of Performance of Medication Reconciliation on Hospital Admission
Authors: Miller Daniel F. , Garcia Danielle , Kreys Tiffany-Jade , Phan Stephanie V. , Vandenberg Amy , Garrison Kelli L.
Published: July 2012

Purpose

To assess the quality of the performance of the medication reconciliation process during hospital admission.

Methods

Subjects were randomized by facility over a 30-day period. Standardized questionnaires were utilized to obtain demographic information, drug allergies, and medication histories. This information was compared with medication reconciliation forms completed upon hospital admission. The primary outcome was the percent of accurate forms completed by the admitting clinician. Secondary outcomes were the accuracy of individual components of the medication order and the time required to accurately reconcile medications.

Results

One hundred fourteen medication reconciliation forms were audited; over half the subjects were white males with a mean age of 51 years and a median of 7 home medications. Accurate medication reconciliation was documented on 13% of forms. Allergies were consistent among providers in 59% of patients. Of 742 medication orders, the number of inaccuracies was as follows: wrong dose (108, 14.6%), wrong frequency (108, 14.6%), wrong route (54, 7.3%), and wrong medication (25, 3.4%). Omissions (204) and commissions (98) occurred at a rate of 1.79 and 0.86, respectively (114 forms evaluated). The majority of patient/caregiver, outpatient provider, and retail pharmacy interviews required 15 minutes or less to complete.

Conclusions

Though a national benchmark does not exist for the quality of medication reconciliation performed on hospital admission, there are opportunities to increase the accuracy of medication information obtained during hospital admission.
Using Mind Mapping to Anchor Learning: Focus on Leader's Decision Domains
Authors: Enright Sharon Murphy , White Sara J.
Published: July 2012

The Director's Forum series is designed to guide pharmacy leaders in establishing patient-centered services in hospitals and health systems. This month's article continues the focus on the use of mind mapping to clarify and simplify complex pharmacy department issues. A Mind Map is a diagram used to represent concepts, words, tasks, or other items related to a central key word or idea. Mind Maps are used to form, visualize, generate, categorize, and classify ideas, and they aid in a variety of activities including problem solving, writing, and making key decisions. This article describes ways for pharmacy leaders to effectively support transformational practice change through the applied use of Mind Maps.
Parents' Support and Knowledge of Their Daughters' Lives, and Females' Early Sexual Initiation In Nine European Countries
Authors: Madkour Aubrey Spriggs , Farhat Tilda , Halpern Carolyn Tucker , Gabhainn Saoirse nic , Godeau Emmanuelle
Published: July 2012

CONTEXT

Associations between early sexual initiation and parental support and knowledge have not been uniformly tested in multiple European population‐based samples. Understanding such associations is important in efforts to discourage females’ early sex.

METHODS

Data were compiled for 7,466 females aged 14–16 who participated in the 2005–2006 Health Behaviors in School‐Aged Children survey in nine countries (Austria, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Lithuania, Romania, Spain and Ukraine). Univariate, bivariate and multivariable analyses were run with standard error corrections and weights to assess how sexual initiation before age 16 was related to maternal and paternal support and knowledge of daily activities.

RESULTS

Prevalence of early sexual initiation ranged from 7% (in Romania) to 35% (in Iceland). In bivariate analyses, maternal and paternal support were significantly negatively related to adolescent females’ early sexual initiation in most countries. In models with demographic controls, parental support was negatively associated with early sexual initiation (odds ratio, 0.8 for maternal and 0.7 for paternal). After parental knowledge was added, early sexual initiation was no longer associated with parental support, but was negatively associated with maternal and paternal knowledge (0.7 for each). These patterns held across countries.

CONCLUSIONS

Parental knowledge largely explained negative associations between parental support and early initiation, suggesting either that knowledge is more important than support or that knowledge mediates the association between support and early sex.
Digital Signal Processor based Performance Investigation of Indirect Current Controlled Active Power Filter for Power Quality Improvement
Authors: Gupta Nitin , Singh S. P. , Dubey S. P. , Palwalia D. K.
Published: July 2012

This paper presents a novel Digital Signal Processor (DSP) based control algorithm for 3-phase shunt active power filter (APF) using neural network and indirect current control strategy to eliminate current harmonics and reactive power compensation under ideal and distorted supply voltage. The compensation process is based on sensing of source current instead of filter current, and thus differs from conventional techniques for elimination of switching ripples. Fundamental frequency signal extraction is done using adaptive linear neuron (ADALINE) network from distorted voltage signal without using low-pass filter or phase-locked-loop block. ADALINE gives simple, robust and accurate design for selected frequency extraction. Instead of calculating oscillating and reactive power, the reference generation is used to calculate average active power component. Various simulation results are presented to study the performance of proposed design during steady-state and transient conditions of non-linear loads using MATLAB/ Simulink tool under sinusoidal and distorted supply voltage conditions. Simulated response has been validated with a laboratory prototype using a Texas make floating-point TMS320F28335 DSP. Based on the simulated and experimental results it can be concluded that the spectral performance of the input current are in compliance with the harmonic limits imposed by IEEE-519 standard.
Design and Performance Evaluation of STATCOM Supplementary Modulation Controller in Power Systems
Authors: Tummala Trjyothsna , K VAISAKH
Published: July 2012

Damping of low-frequency electro-mechanical oscillations is essential for reliable operation of power systems. The fast acting, power electronics based FACTS controllers which are capable of improving both steady state and dynamic performance permit enhanced approaches to system stabilization. This paper presents the control laws and location index proposed for a static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) based on a circuit analogy of the electro-mechanical system. The signals which are used can be synthesized using locally available measurements. A detailed study of small signal analysis is carried out to study the effectiveness of the control law and strategic location of the damping controller. With the objective of damping oscillations, a nonlinear constrained optimization technique has been presented for tuning the controller parameters with and without phase compensation. Transient stability analysis has then been performed with STATCOM for a multimachine power system. Comparison of the optimization technique with that of the classical root locus method shows improvement of stability obtained with the former. Case studies on a single machine infinite bus system, three machine system and ten machine systems illustrate the effect of STATCOM on transient stability and its accurate prediction.
Micro-optics: a micro-tutorial
Authors: Zappe Hans
Published: July 2012

Micro-optics represents a rich discipline with many features not found in classical optics. Yet micro-optics is not merely ‘small optics’. Using the technologies of microfabrication, entirely new fabrication processes, new materials and new types of optical devices have been conceived. Here, we provide a brief introduction to the field, discussing a variety of miniaturized optical components, as well as the materials from which they are made and the novel technologies used to fabricate them. Designed as a tutorial, this brief précis includes adequate literature references to guide the interested reader to more in-depth treatments.
Hybrid hyperchromats for chromatic confocal sensor systems
Authors: Hillenbrand Matthias , Mitschunas Beate , Wenzel Christian , Grewe Adrian , Ma Xuan , Feßer Patrick , Bichra Mohamed , Sinzinger Stefan
Published: July 2012

The combination of diffractive and refractive elements in hybrid optical systems allows for precise control of the longitudinal chromatic aberration. We provide comprehensive design strategies for hybrid hyperchromatic lenses that maximise the longitudinal chromatic aberrations. These lenses are mainly used in chromatic confocal sensor systems for efficient non-contact profilometry as well as for measurements of distances and wall thicknesses of transparent materials. Our design approach enables the tailoring of the sensor properties to the specific measurement problem and assists designers in finding optimised solutions for industrial applications. We, for example, demonstrate a hybrid system that significantly exceeds the longitudinal chromatic aberration of purely diffractive elements.