bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Resistance to Penicillium Seed Rot in Transgenic Wheat Over‐expressing Puroindolines
Authors: Kim Kyung‐Hee , Feiz Leila , Dyer Alan T. , Grey William , Hogg Andrew C. , Martin John M. , Giroux Michael J.
Published: February 2012

Puroindolines (PINs) are the main components of the wheat grain hardness locus (Ha) and have in vitro antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi. Here, we examined the effect of variation in PINA and/or PINB content upon Penicillium sp. seed fungal growth inhibition. The Penicillium sp. assays were germination assays performed after incubating seeds in Penicillium sp. contaminated soil. The first set of wheat genotypes consisted of two sets of transgenic isolines created in the varieties ‘Bobwhite’ and ‘Hi‐Line’ having over‐expression of PINA and/or PINB. The second set of genotypes consisted of near‐isogenic lines (NILs) varying for mutations in PINA or PINB created in the varieties ‘Explorer’ and ‘Hank’. After incubation in Penicillium sp.‐infected soil, transgenic wheat seeds over‐expressing PINA in both ‘Hi‐Line’ and ‘Bobwhite’ and both PINs in ‘Hi‐Line’ exhibited significantly reduced fungal infection and increased germination. No significant differences in Penicillium sp. infection or germination rates were observed in seeds of the NILs. The results indicate that puroindolines native role in seeds is to increase seed viability and that when over‐expressed as transgenes, the puroindolines are effective antifungal proteins.
Advances in gastrointestinal endoscopy
Authors: Kwan V.
Published: February 2012

Gastrointestinal endoscopy has undergone a remarkable expansion in its capabilities as a result of sophisticated technological advances in recent years. New imaging technologies, novel ablation and resection techniques, cutting‐edge endoscope development and creative extraluminal applications have taken gastrointestinal endoscopy to an exciting new level. An update on some of these advances is presented for the physician audience.
Primary amenorrhea due to juvenile granulosa‐cell tumor of the ovary: A case report
Authors: Adachi Tomoko , Sato Hideki , Nakayama Setsuko , Shimizu Shoko , Matsui Hideo , Nakabayashi Masao
Published: February 2012

In general, primary amenorrhea is caused by gonadal dysgenesis, anomalies of internal or external genitalia with or without chromosomal anomalies, and sometimes by hormonal abnormalities that affect the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, adrenals or thyroid, or by chronic or metabolic diseases. We report a rare case of a juvenile granulosa‐cell tumor of the ovary that caused primary amenorrhea in a 16‐year‐old girl. Her hormonal profiles before the operation were characterized by an extremely low level of follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), a relatively low level of estradiol and a high level of inhibin B. The patient had menarche after the removal of the tumor. Her elevated serum FSH after the operation was the result of a decreased serum level of inhibin that had been produced by the tumor. The present case highlights that a granulosa‐cell tumor, known as an inhibin‐secreting tumor, should be considered when treating primary amenorrheic girls.
Antenatal diagnosis of a third trimester interstitial pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Scarella Anibal , Marquez Rolando , Schilling Hugo , Palomino Alberto
Published: February 2012

Interstitial pregnancy cases that advance to term, or near term, are occasionally reported. We present an unusual case of a third trimester interstitial pregnancy with antenatal diagnosis and expectant management. She presented at 20 weeks of pregnancy with an early preterm premature rupture of membranes, and expectant management was initiated. The ultrasound suggested an interstitial location and a posterior magnetic resonance image, obtained at 26 weeks, confirmed the diagnosis. Because of the risk of uterine rupture, an elective cesarean section was performed at 28 weeks. During the laparotomy, the uterine fundus appeared intact with an asymmetric bulge that provided evidence of placenta increta. The baby was delivered, and an obstetric hysterectomy was performed. The newborn was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit with a severe respiratory distress syndrome. No response to mechanical ventilation was observed, and neonatal death was reported. A uterine pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis.
Nutritional status among women with pre‐eclampsia and healthy pregnant and non‐pregnant women in a Latin American country
Authors: Reyes Laura , Garcia Ronald , Ruiz Silvia , Dehghan Mahshid , López‐Jaramillo Patricio
Published: February 2012

Aims:  Pre‐eclampsia (PE) is one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. It has been proposed that, among other risk factors, the nutritional status of women can lead to the endothelial dysfunction that characterizes this entity. The aim of the present study was to compare the nutritional status of women with PE with healthy pregnant and non‐pregnant women.

Material and Methods:  A multicenter case–control study was carried out. Between September 2006 and July 2009, 201 women with PE were compared with 201 pregnant, and 201 non‐pregnant aged‐matched women without cardiovascular or endocrine diseases. A clinical history and physical examination was performed. Fasting blood samples were drawn to measure serum glucose and lipid profile. The nutritional status of participants was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire.

Results:  The average age of women was 26.6 ± 7.2 years. Compared to healthy pregnant controls, women with PE had a higher body mass index, higher fasting blood glucose levels, higher triglycerides, and lower high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Women with PE had a higher intake of carbohydrates, energy intake and cereal compared to healthy pregnant and non‐pregnant controls. A conditional logistic regression demonstrated that carbohydrate and sodium intake are associated with PE development.

Conclusions:  Diets of women with PE were characterized by higher energy and carbohydrate intake compared to normal pregnant and non‐pregnant women. This suggests that higher carbohydrate and sodium intake increases the risk of PE among women in Colombia.
Career satisfaction level, mental distress, and gender differences in working conditions among Japanese obstetricians and gynecologists
Authors: Sugiura‐Ogasawara Mayumi , Suzuki Sadao , Kitazawa Masafumi , Kuwae Chizuko , Sawa Rintaro , Shimizu Yukiko , Takeshita Toshiyuki , Yoshimura Yasunori ,   for the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology/Career Support Committee
Published: February 2012

Aim:  Career satisfaction level, degree of mental distress associated with certain work‐related factors, and demographics were examined for the first time in obstetricians and gynecologists in Japan.

Material and Methods:  Associations between the score on Kessler 6 screening scale, or the job satisfaction level, and the scores on the job content questionnaire, Social Support Questionnaire (SSQ), working conditions and demographics were examined in 1301 members of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Results:  8.4% of respondents were speculated to suffer from depression or anxiety disorder. Multivariate linear regression analysis identified a heavier workload, less personal control, lower satisfaction on the SSQ, and longer working hours as being independent risk factors for mental distress.

Conclusion:  Careful monitoring of the mental state is necessary for obstetricians and gynecologists with lower incomes, heavier workloads, lower degrees of personal control, and lower satisfaction scores on the SSQ.
Genome‐wide analysis of longevity in nutrient‐deprived Saccharomyces cerevisiae reveals importance of recycling in maintaining cell viability
Authors: Davey Hazel M. , Cross Emma J. M. , Davey Christopher, L. , Gkargkas Konstantinos , Delneri Daniela , Hoyle David C. , Oliver Stephen G. , Kell Douglas B. , Griffith Gareth W.
Published: February 2012

Although typically cosseted in the laboratory with constant temperatures and plentiful nutrients, microbes are frequently exposed to much more stressful conditions in their natural environments where survival and competitive fitness depend upon both growth rate when conditions are favourable and on persistence in a viable and recoverable state when they are not. In order to determine the role of genetic heterogeneity in environmental fitness we present a novel approach that combines the power of fluorescence‐activated cell sorting with barcode microarray analysis and apply this to determining the importance of every gene in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome in a high‐throughput, genome‐wide fitness screen. We have grown > 6000 heterozygous mutants together and exposed them to a starvation stress before using fluorescence‐activated cell sorting to identify and isolate those individual cells that have not survived the stress applied. Barcode array analysis of the sorted and total populations reveals the importance of cellular recycling mechanisms (autophagy, pexophagy and ribosome breakdown) in maintaining cell viability during starvation and provides compelling evidence for an important role for fatty acid degradation in maintaining viability. In addition, we have developed a semi‐batch fermentor system that is a more realistic model of environmental fitness than either batch or chemostat culture. Barcode array analysis revealed that arginine biosynthesis was important for fitness in semi‐batch culture and modelling of this regime showed that rapid emergence from lag phase led to greatly increased fitness. One hundred and twenty‐five strains with deletions in unclassified proteins were identified as being over‐represented in the sorted fraction, while 27 unclassified proteins caused a haploinsufficient phenotype in semi‐batch culture. These methods thus provide a screen to identifying other genes and pathways that have a role in maintaining cell viability.
Sacral nerve stimulation in faecal incontinence associated with an anal sphincter lesion: a systematic review
Authors: Ratto C. , Litta F. , Parello A. , Donisi L. , De Simone V. , Zaccone G.
Published: February 2012

Aim  The long‐term results of sphincteroplasty for faecal incontinence due to an anal sphincter lesion have been disappointing. Initially sacral nerve stimulation was used only in faecal incontinence of neurogenic origin but subsequently the indications have been extended to other conditions. The aim of this review was to evaluate sacral nerve stimulation for incontinence in the presence of a sphincter defect.

Method  The MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases for the period between 1995 and 2011 were searched for studies in English, with no limitations concerning the study size or the length of follow‐up. The major endpoints were clinical efficacy, changes in anorectal manometry and quality of life.

Results  Ten reports (119 patients) satisfied the inclusion criteria. The quality of the studies was low (nine were retrospective, one was prospective). All reported a lesion of the external anal and/or internal anal sphincter on endoanal ultrasound. A definitive implant was performed on 106 (89%) of the 119 patients who underwent a peripheral nerve evaluation test. The weighted average number of incontinent episodes per week decreased from 12.1 to 2.3, the weighted average Cleveland Clinic Score decreased from 16.5 to 3.8, and the ability to defer defaecation, when evaluated, increased significantly. The features at anorectal manometry did not change. The quality of life improved significantly in almost all studies.

Conclusion  Sacral nerve stimulation could be a therapeutic option for faecal incontinence in patients with an anal sphincter lesion. However, the quality of the published studies is low. A randomized clinical trial comparing sacral nerve stimulation with other classical surgical procedures at long‐term follow‐up, although beset with difficulties, should be conducted.
Morbidity and mortality of the Hartmann procedure for diverticular disease over 18 years in a single institution
Authors: Ince M. , Stocchi L. , Khomvilai S. , Kwon D. S. , Hammel J. P. , Kiran R. P.
Published: February 2012

Aim  Hartmann’s procedure for perforated diverticulitis is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. This study analyses factors associated with morbidity/mortality and possible changes over time.

Method  Patients treated by urgent Hartmann’s procedure for perforated diverticulitis between 1992 and 2010 were studied, and information was collected on age, sex, perioperative details, 30‐day morbidity and mortality recorded in an institutional review board approved database supplemented by chart review. Patients were divided into four groups based on the year of surgery. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors associated with morbidity and mortality.

Results  In all, 199 patients (51% female, mean age 65 years, mean body mass index 28 kg/m2) were identified. The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score was 4 in 30% of patients and Hinchey Stage IV in 16%. The mean length of stay was 12.5 ± 10 days. Mortality was 15% and did not change significantly over time. Overall morbidity was 52% and significantly increased over time on univariate analysis (P = 0.007) but not on multivariate analysis (P = 0.11). Independent predictors of morbidity on multivariate analysis were Hinchey IV (P < 0.001) and hypoproteinaemia (P =0.001). Independent predictors for mortality were ASA > 3 (P = 0.01), abnormal creatinine (P = 0.007), steroid use (P = 0.007), Hinchey IV (P = 0.032), low albumin (P < 0.001) and low body mass index (P = 0.001).

Conclusion  Mortality after Hartmann’s procedure for perforated diverticulitis has not decreased during the last 18 years. Morbidity has actually increased over time although this is related to increased disease severity and comorbidity. Future efforts should focus on the identification of patient subgroups benefiting from earlier elective surgery and alternative surgical approaches when perforated diverticulitis does occur.
Increased apoB/A‐I ratio independently associated with Type 2 diabetes mellitus: cross‐sectional study in a Korean population
Authors: Hwang Y. C. , Ahn H. Y. , Kim W. J. , Park C. Y. , Park S. W.
Published: February 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, 1165‐1170 (2012)

Aims  The aim of this study was to investigate whether increased apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A‐I ratio is associated with Type 2 diabetes mellitus independent of other risk factors for Type 2 diabetes.

Methods  A total of 70 063 subjects (41 391 men and 28 672 women; mean age 41.5 years) who visited the Health Screening Center at Kangbuk Samsung Hospital for a routine medical check‐up between January 2009 and December 2009 were enrolled in this study.

Results  The mean apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A‐I ratio in the study subjects was 0.66 ± 0.18. The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes increased across the apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A‐I ratio quartiles (1.0%, 1.6%, 2.9%, and 4.8% for the 1st through 4th quartiles, respectively, P < 0.001) and homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance (HOMA2‐IR) also showed an increasing tendency by quartile (P < 0.001). The apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A‐I ratio was correlated with age, adiposity, blood pressure, HOMA2‐IR value, fasting glucose levels, and other inflammatory marker, including high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, and lipoprotein (a) levels (all P < 0.001). In a multiple logistic regression model, the highest apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A‐I ratio quartile was associated with Type 2 diabetes, even after controlling for other risk factors for diabetes, such as age, gender, BMI, systolic blood pressure, HOMA2‐IR values, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein levels, family history of diabetes, presence of metabolic syndrome, and conventional lipid parameters (odds ratio 1.31; 95% confidence interval 1.17–1.46, P < 0.001).

Conclusions  The apolipoprotein B/apolipoprotein A‐I ratio was found to be associated with Type 2 diabetes independent of other risk factors for diabetes and conventional lipid parameters.
A Multi‐Level Model for Organizational Ambidexterity in the Search Phase of the Innovation Process
Authors: Cantarello Silvia , Martini Antonella , Nosella Anna
Published: February 2012

Innovation is one of the most critical means in supporting and improving the competitive position of the firm, in particular, and a firm's survival and growth depend greatly on its ability to balance the exploitation of existing knowledge with the exploration of new possibilities, by building ambidexterity capability. While different alternatives to realize the simultaneous reconciliation of exploration and exploitation at an operational level have been proposed, how organizations build ambidexterity capability is not fully understood. The aim of this paper is thus to explore how exploration and exploitation balancing can be achieved in practice. We decided to focus on the early phase of the process where firms search for new ideas with which to renew themselves. To this end, we analysed the search phase of a highly innovative technology‐based company by investigating structural design choices combined with the presence of specific roles and searching practices. The results show how the exploration and exploitation balancing act can actually be achieved and maintained through a multi‐level approach that integrates both the operational and the strategic levels. Our findings thus contribute to the organizational ambidexterity literature, by proposing a first interpretative model for dealing with ambidexterity in the search phase of the innovation process.
Towards a Comprehensive Understanding of Lead Userness: The Search for Individual Creativity
Authors: Faullant Rita , Schwarz Erich J. , Krajger Ines , Breitenecker Robert J.
Published: February 2012

In innovation research the identification of lead users has attracted considerable research effort. While lead user research has made important advances, there is still a significant lack in terms of understanding antecedents to lead userness. Therefore the aim of this paper is to offer a framework which is rooted in creativity psychology in order to provide a more comprehensive understanding of who leading‐edge users are. It will allow for a systematic investigation and detection of innovative users. We conducted an empirical study in the field of small kitchen appliances in co‐operation with Philips Consumer Lifestyle, a field which lacks some of the typical characteristics that have been emphasized in markets traditionally studied in lead user research. With our research we show that (1) lead userness is fundamentally linked to individual creativity; (2) particularly creativity‐ and domain‐relevant skills (cognitive style, product knowledge and use experience) are related to lead userness; (3) creativity‐relevant skills can be explained by personal characteristics, such as education, gender and openness to experience.
Unequal and Unequally Distributed Votes: The Sources of Electoral Bias at Recent British General Elections
Authors: Johnston Ron , Borisyuk Galina , Thrasher Michael , Rallings Colin
Published: February 2012

Using a method for decomposing electoral bias in a three-party competitive system we contend that discussion surrounding electoral reform for the House of Commons is largely based on misconceptions about bias sources at recent British general elections (Northern Ireland is excluded from the analysis). Labour is the principal beneficiary across these seven elections while the third party, the Liberal Democrats, consistently suffers from a negative bias. There is no clear pattern for the Conservative party, however; it experienced a positive net bias at two of the elections but was disadvantaged for the remaining five. For three bias components – electorate, abstentions and minor party – Labour consistently has a positive advantage and the Conservatives are always disadvantaged. Abstentions contribute relatively strongly to Labour's advantage but differences in electorate size are not a major contributor to overall bias. Despite this, legislation changing the independent boundary review process is predicated on the assumption that new rules should remove much of the pro-Labour bias. The analysis finds instead that most bias stems from the geography component: differences in the distributions of each party's votes and the translation of votes into seats. Vote distribution is clearly the largest component explaining the Liberal Democrats' disadvantage but it is also the largest component for both Conservative and Labour parties in five of the last seven general elections. Although future boundary reviews will remove the effects of unequal electorates, this process is not designed to address either the impact of turnout/abstention or vote distributions on overall electoral bias.
Empirically informing a technology delivery system model for an emerging technology: illustrated for dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Guo Ying , Xu Chen , Huang Lu , Porter Alan
Published: February 2012

This paper explores how to extract empirical knowledge from R&D, patent, and business literature compilations to help compose an innovation system model. It adapts the key elements and dynamics of ‘technology delivery system’ modeling to a given Newly Emerging Science & Technology. We present a 10‐step analytical approach to help characterize the technology, gauge its state of development, and depict the socio‐technical system institutions and actors. We apply this to the case of Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSCs). A new ‘cross‐charting’ method appears effective at associating novel technology‐enabled capabilities to gain functional advantages, and to link those functions to potential applications. The resulting systems model can help private and public sector decision makers grasp key structures and processes, and how these can be tuned to enhance the prospects of successful innovation.
Belief‐Based Exemptions: Are Religious Beliefs Special?*
Authors: CORNELISSEN GEMMA
Published: February 2012

Religious beliefs are often singled out for special treatment in secular liberal societies. Yet if a legal exemption is granted for a belief with a religious foundation, the question arises whether a similar, non‐religious moral belief must also be granted an exemption. I argue that common reasons for favoring religious over non‐religious beliefs fail to provide a convincing moral case for drawing a distinction of this nature. I focus on arguments concerning the role of religious beliefs in constituting an individual's identity and the transcendental nature of religion, which lead me to consider in the final section the role of choice in religious belief.
English in Macedonian television commercials
Authors: DIMOVA SLOBODANKA
Published: February 2012

ABSTRACT:  Code‐switching to English in non‐English commercials has become a popular practice because it is associated with power, prestige, and modernism. For that reason, the purpose of the present study is to investigate the creativity of English use in Macedonian TV advertising as a site for active linguistic contact. Based on four commercials, the study explores how the narrative, musical, and visual aspects of TV commercials enhance the imaginative function of English in the Macedonian advertizing context. Findings suggest that commercials’ intermediality allows for parallel and complementary usage of Macedonian and English to complete the message of the commercial. In some cases, Macedonian narration disambiguates the English name of the product, and in other, English song lyrics support the visual representation of the local context. Furthermore, English borrowing is also inter‐generic, which means the choice of English is due to its identification with the genre to which the advertisement refers. Finally, English is not simply inserted into commercials to attract attention or address international consumers. Instead, it becomes a resource for lexical and semantic creativity and a tool for molding products’ and consumers’ identities. In the process of this identity development, English itself is changed to reflect local characteristics.
SPINOFFS AND THE MARKET FOR IDEAS*
Authors: Chatterjee Satyajit , Rossi‐Hansberg Esteban
Published: February 2012

We present a theory of entry through spinoffs where workers generate ideas and possess private information concerning their quality. Because quality is privately observed, adverse selection implies that the market can only offer a price that reflects the average quality of ideas sold. Only workers with good ideas decide to spin off, whereas workers with mediocre ideas sell them. Existing firms pay a price for ideas sold in the market that implies zero expected profits. Hence, firms’ project selection is independent of firm size, which can lead to scale‐independent growth. This mechanism results in invariant firm‐size distributions that resemble the data.
LOBBYING COMPETITION OVER TRADE POLICY*
Authors: Gawande By Kishore , Krishna Pravin , Olarreaga Marcelo
Published: February 2012

Competition between opposing lobbies is an important factor in the endogenous determination of trade policy. This article investigates the consequences of lobbying competition between upstream and downstream producers. The theoretical structure underlying the empirical analysis is the well‐known Grossman–Helpman model of trade policy determination, modified to account for the cross‐sectoral use of inputs (itself a quantitatively significant phenomenon, with around 50% of manufacturing output being used by other sectors rather than in final consumption). Our empirical results validate the theoretical predictions. Importantly, accounting for lobbying competition also alters substantially estimates of the “welfare‐mindedness” of governments in setting trade policy.
PERSISTENT IDEOLOGY AND THE DETERMINATION OF PUBLIC POLICY OVER TIME*
Authors: Song Zheng
Published: February 2012

This article investigates how public policy responds to persistent ideological shifts in dynamic politico‐economic equilibria. To this end, I develop a tractable model to analyze the dynamic interactions among public policy, individuals’ intertemporal choice, and the evolution of political constituency. My main finding is that a right‐wing ideology may increase the size of government. Data from a panel of 18 OECD countries confirm that after controlling for the partisan effect, there is a positive relationship between the right‐wing political constituency and government size. This is consistent with my theoretical prediction, but hard to explain by existing theories.
SOUTHERN INNOVATION AND REVERSE KNOWLEDGE SPILLOVERS: A DYNAMIC FDI MODEL*
Authors: He Yin , Maskus Keith E.
Published: February 2012

We develop a general equilibrium model of endogenous innovation and foreign direct investment (FDI). In the benchmark model, Northern firms innovate with the help of localized spillovers, and a share of new products is transferred to Southern production via FDI. An increase in Southern imitation risk reduces this share. In the extended model, we permit higher‐cost Southern innovation, which yields inefficient specialization in both regions and reduces global growth. However, it generates a U‐shaped relationship between FDI and local imitation. We also allow for “reverse” spillovers in knowledge to Northern innovation, which partially restore global efficiency and growth.
Effective and sustainable biologic treatment of psoriasis: what can we learn from new clinical data?
Authors: Langley R.G.
Published: February 2012

The introduction of the biologic agents, adalimumab, etanercept, infliximab and ustekinumab, has provided more options for the short‐ and long‐term treatment of patients with psoriasis. Physicians are now able to achieve and maintain effective disease control in more patients using biologic therapies. Newly published clinical data support the introduction of novel optimization strategies to further improve outcomes in patients with psoriasis. Recent randomized controlled clinical trials have provided data on the efficacy of conventional therapies, including systemic agents, and biologics at specific time points. Switching from methotrexate to a tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α antagonist after 16 weeks can improve response rates, as demonstrated in a study of patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis, while the benefit of long‐term methotrexate use remains unclear. In a separate study, psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) ≥75 response rates were maintained over time (>3 years for adalimumab), suggesting that long‐term biologic therapy is an effective and sustainable treatment option for psoriasis. For each individual patient, the benefit of a particular treatment needs to be balanced with the risks. The lack of head‐to‐head trials of antipsoriatic therapies, particularly biologic therapies, does not help with making individualized treatment decisions. However, a benefit–risk assessment of TNF‐α antagonists calculated from an integrated analysis of published literature in moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis can be used to aid clinical practice. The number needed to treat, number needed to harm and number of patient years of observation to detect an adverse event have been determined for adalimumab, etanercept and infliximab. The benefit–risk profiles generated demonstrated that, during the initial year of treatment, likelihood of success with TNF‐α antagonists was several orders of magnitude greater than the likelihood of serious toxicity.
White Sponge Nevus: Clinical Suspicion and Diagnosis
Authors: Songu Murat , Adibelli Hamit , Diniz Gulden
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  White sponge nevus is a rare, autosomal‐dominant disorder that affects the noncornified stratified squamous epithelia. Clinically, the presence of white, spongy plaques mostly in the buccal, labial, and gingival mucosa and the floor of the mouth characterize the lesions. The differential diagnosis of the lesion may be difficult and it is best diagnosed by biopsy. We report a case of white sponge nevus in the oral cavity of a 16‐year‐old boy and review of the literature.
Gianotti–Crosti Syndrome After Childhood Vaccination
Authors: Retrouvey Michele , Koch Laine H. , Williams Judith V.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  A 19‐month‐old boy was evaluated for a skin eruption after recent vaccinations. Clinical and histopathologic findings supported a diagnosis of Gianotti–Crosti syndrome (GCS). This case report examines the link between GCS and vaccinations, particularly the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine and the varicella virus live vaccine.
Perianal Rhabdomyosarcoma: Report of a Case in an Infant and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gökdemir Gonca , Ekmen Sevgi , Gungor Sule , Singer Ralfi
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Rhabdomyosarcoma of the perianal and perineal region is a rare sarcoma of childhood with a poor prognosis. The clinical findings are similar to those of condyloma accuminata, which makes it difficult to diagnose. There are a few reports of this disease in the dermatologic literature. We present a 15‐month‐old girl with a polypoid anal mass diagnosed as embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma and a review of the current literature.
Sacrococcygeal Teratoma Masquerading as Congenital Hemangioma
Authors: Mullen Meghan , Rabban Joseph , Frieden Ilona J.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) is a rare tumor, present in approximately one in 40,000 live births. A small proportion of SCT have malignant potential, so prompt recognition and surgical resection are necessary. We report two cases of SCT initially misdiagnosed as hemangiomas because of their cutaneous appearance and in particular vascular stains overlying soft tissue mass. These two cases emphasize that SCT should be considered in the differential diagnosis of hemangiomas and in particular of congenital hemangiomas.
Hypercalcemia Due to Subcutaneous Fat Necrosis in a Newborn After Total Body Cooling
Authors: Akcay Ahmet , Akar Melek , Oncel M. Yekta , Kızılelma Avidan , Erdeve Omer , Oguz S. Suna , Uras Nurdan , Dılmen Ugur
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Subcutaneous fat necrosis is an inflammatory disorder of adipose tissue. Although patients need long‐term follow‐up to prevent hypercalcemia, the prognosis is generally favorable. We herein present a case of a newborn who developed subcutaneous fat necrosis–related hypercalcemia after hypothermia treatment for hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. Widespread use of hypothermia treatment for hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy in the neonatal intensive care unit may increase the risk of developing subcutaneous fat necrosis and subsequently hypercalcemia. Great care should be taken to recognize skin findings early in newborns receiving hypothermia treatment, and those diagnosed with subcutaneous fat necrosis require close follow‐up because they are at risk for developing hypercalcemia.
Risk of shoulder dystocia: associations with parity and offspring birthweight. A population study of 1 914 544 deliveries
Authors: ØVERLAND EVA A. , VATTEN LARS J. , ESKILD ANNE
Published: February 2012

Objectives. We estimated the associations of parity and offspring birthweight with the risk of shoulder dystocia, and studied whether the association of offspring birthweight differed by parity. Design. Population‐based register study. Setting. The Medical Birth Registry of Norway was used to identify all deliveries between 1967 and 2006. Population. All vaginal deliveries of a singleton offspring in cephalic presentation during the period 1967–2006 (n=1 914 544). Main outcome measure. Shoulder dystocia at delivery. Results: Shoulder dystocia occurred in 0.68% (13 109/1 914 544) of all deliveries. There was a strong positive association of birthweight with risk of shoulder dystocia, and 75% (9765/13 109) of all cases occurred in deliveries of offspring weighing 4000g or more. The association of birthweight displayed similar patterns across parities, but the association was slightly stronger in parous than in primiparous women. Among first‐time mothers, 0.12% (320/276 614) with offspring weighing 3000–3499g (reference) experienced shoulder dystocia, compared with 13.30% (169/1244) with offspring birthweight higher than 5000g [odds ratio (OR) 135.7, 95%CI 111.6–165.1]. The corresponding results for women with one previous delivery were 0.08% (161/201 572) and 16.45% (501/3054) (OR 246.4, 95%CI 205.4–295.5). Conclusions. High offspring birthweight is the major risk factor for shoulder dystocia, constituting most cases. The positive association of birthweight with shoulder dystocia showed similar patterns across parities, but high birthweight parous women were at greater risk of shoulder dystocia compared with primiparous women.
Digital vs. conventional implant impressions: efficiency outcomes
Authors: Lee Sang J. , Gallucci German O.
Published: February 2012

Objectives

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the efficiency, difficulty and operator's preference of a digital impression compared with a conventional impression for single implant restorations.

Materials and methods

Thirty HSDM second year dental students performed conventional and digital implant impressions on a customized model presenting a single implant. The outcome of the impressions was evaluated under an acceptance criteria and the need for retake/rescan was decided. The efficiency of both impression techniques was evaluated by measuring the preparation, working, and retake/scan time (m/s) and the number of retakes/rescans. Participants' perception on the level of difficulty for the both impressions was assessed with a visual analogue scale (VAS) questionnaire. Multiple questionnaires were obtained to assess the participants' perception on preference, effectiveness and proficiency.

Results

Mean total treatment time was of 24:42 m/s for conventional and 12:29 m/s for digital impressions (P < 0.001). Mean preparation time was of 4:42 m/s for conventional and 3:35 m/s for digital impressions (P < 0.001). Mean working time including retakes/rescans demanded 20:00 m/s for conventional vs. 8:54 m/s for digital impression (P < 0.001). On a 0–100 VAS scale, the participants scored a mean difficulty level of 43.12 (±18.46) for conventional impression technique and 30.63 (±17.57) for digital impression technique (P = 0.006). Sixty percent of the participants preferred the digital impression, 7% the conventional impression technique and 33% preferred either technique.

Conclusions

Digital impressions resulted in a more efficient technique than conventional impressions. Longer preparation, working, and retake time were consumed to complete an acceptable conventional impression. Difficulty was lower for the digital impression compared with the conventional ones when performed by inexperienced second year dental students.
Effect of sodium lauryl sulfate on recurrent aphthous stomatitis: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Shim YJ , Choi J‐H , Ahn H‐J , Kwon J‐S
Published: February 2012

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 655–660

Objective:  To compare the effects of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)‐free and SLS‐containing dentifrice in patient with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS).

Materials and methods:  The design of this study was a double‐blind crossover trial. The 90 subjects were divided into three groups: group I used SLS‐free (a commercially available SLS‐free dentifrice) and SLS‐A (SLS‐free + 1.5% SLS), group II used SLS‐A and SLS‐B (a commercially available 1.5% SLS‐containing dentifrice), and group III used SLS‐free and SLS‐B. The subjects used one of the two assigned dentifrices for 8 weeks and then the other for the following 8 weeks. The order of the dentifrices used was selected at random, and there was a 2‐week washout period between the two phases. The clinical parameters (number of ulcers, number of episodes, duration of ulcers, mean pain score) were compared between the two phases for each group.

Results:  The number of ulcers and episodes did not differ significantly between SLS‐A, SLS‐B, and SLS‐free. Only duration of ulcers and mean pain score was significantly decreased during the period using SLS‐free.

Conclusion:  Although SLS‐free did not reduce the number of ulcers and episodes, it affected the ulcer‐healing process and reduces pain in daily lives in patients with RAS.
When risk‐based regulation aims low: A strategic framework
Authors: Black Julia , Baldwin Robert
Published: February 2012

This article develops a strategic framework for regulators to employ when choosing intervention strategies for dealing with low risks and reviewing performance, building on the analysis by the same authors in the previous edition of this journal. The framework occupies the operational “middle ground” between risk analysis and formal enforcement action. At its core is a matrix, the Good Regulatory Intervention Design (GRID), which provides a framework to categorize sites or activities on the basis of two factors: the nature of the risk and the nature of the regulatee. Using GRID, regulators can select which intervention tools to use, and determine the overall level of regulatory intensity that should apply. GRID is accompanied by the Good Regulatory Assessment Framework (GRAF) for agencies to use in reviewing their performance and provides a step‐by‐step process for enabling “double loop learning.” The article also argues that the process of developing such a framework highlighted the extent to which “low risk” and “high risk” regulation are distinct. “Low risk” means “low priority.” Justifying why certain risks should not receive much regulatory attention requires a particular type of engagement, and has a bearing on the regulatory strategies that are adopted.
A Proposal for the Publication of Geochemical Data in the Scientific Literature
Authors: Potts Philip J.
Published: February 2012

A proposal is set out for the information and details that should accompany the publication of geochemical data in the research literature. This proposal is based on the principle that sufficient detail must be included both to allow independent replication of the results and for reviewers to confirm that data are fit‐for‐purpose in supporting the way in which they have been interpreted. In particular, it is recommended that all analytical measurements should be accompanied by an estimate of uncertainty that includes both field sampling and laboratory contributions together with a statement that summarises the way published data conform to the principles of traceability.
An emergent science on the brink of irrelevance: a review of the past 8 years of DNA barcoding
Authors: TAYLOR H. R. , HARRIS W. E.
Published: February 2012

DNA barcoding has become a well‐funded, global enterprise since its proposition as a technique for species identification, delimitation and discovery in 2003. However, the rapid development of next generation sequencing (NGS) has the potential to render DNA barcoding irrelevant because of the speed with which it generates large volumes of genomic data. To avoid obsolescence, the DNA barcoding movement must adapt to use this new technology. This review examines the DNA barcoding enterprise, its continued resistance to improvement and the implications of this on the future of the discipline. We present the consistent failure of DNA barcoding to recognize its limitations and evolve its methodologies, reducing the usefulness of the data produced by the movement and throwing into doubt its ability to embrace NGS.
The sugar, biomass and biofuel potential of temperate by tropical maize hybrids
Authors: White Wendy G. , Vincent Michael L. , Moose Stephen P. , Below Frederick E.
Published: February 2012

The demand for biofuels has created a market for feedstocks to meet future energy requirements. Temperate × tropical maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids, which combine high biomass and fermentable stalk sugars, have yet to be considered as a biomass feedstock. Our objective was to evaluate biological potential, genetic variability and impact of nitrogen (N) on biomass, stalk sugar, and biofuel potential of temperate × tropical maize (TTM) hybrids. Twelve TTM hybrids, two grain and silage hybrids were grown in 2008, followed in 2009 by seven earshoot‐bagged TTM hybrids. In both years, they were grown with and without supplemental N (202 kg ha−1) in Champaign, IL. Plants were sampled for total and partitioned biomass, and analyzed for concentration and content of sugar. The TTM hybrids were 40% taller, exhibited later reproductive maturity, greater flowering asynchrony, and remained green longer. All hybrids responded to supplemental N by producing more biomass and grain, a lower percent of biomass partitioned to stalk and leaf, whereas TTM also had a decreased concentration of sugar. Total average biomass yields were 24 Mg ha−1 for both the TTM and grain hybrids. However, TTM partitioned 50% more biomass to the stalk and produced 50% more sugar, and had less than half the grain of the commercial hybrids, indicating grain production and sugar accumulation are inversely related. When grain formation was prevented by earshoot bagging, TTM hybrids produced, without supplemental N fertilizer, an average of 4024 kg ha−1 of sugar, which was three‐ to four‐fold greater than the non earshoot‐bagged TTM and ear removed hybrid. Calculated estimates for ethanol production, considering the potential from sugar, stover and grain, indicate TTM can yield nearly the amount of ethanol per hectare as modern grain hybrids, but with a decreased requirement for supplemental fertilizer N.
Use of Personal Protective Measures by Thai Households in Areas with Avian Influenza Outbreaks
Authors: Somrongthong R. , Beaudoin A. , Bender J. , Sasipreeyajan J. , Laosee O. , Pakinsee S. , Sitthi‐amorn C.
Published: February 2012

Thailand has had multiple poultry outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 since its first emergence in 2004. Twenty‐five human cases of HPAI H5N1 avian influenza have been reported in the country, including 17 fatalities, and contact with infected dead or dying poultry has been identified as a risk factor for human infection. This study assessed the use of protective equipment and hand hygiene measures by Thai poultry‐owning households during activities involving poultry contact. Surveys conducted in 2008 included questions regarding poultry‐related activities and protective measures used during an HPAI outbreak (2005) and 3 years after the study location’s last reported outbreak (2008). For both time periods, poultry owners reported limited use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during all activities and inconsistent hand washing practices after carrying poultry and gathering eggs. This is the first time that PPE use in Thailand has been quantified for a large study group. These data are important for ongoing characterization of HPAI risk and for the crafting of educational messages.
Learning Japanese as a Foreign Language in the Context of an American University: A Qualitative and Process‐Oriented Study on De/Motivation at the Learning Situation Level
Authors: Yi Tsang Sin
Published: February 2012

Motivation plays an important role in foreign language learning. To investigate factors that influence motivation level, the researcher surveyed 102 students studying Japanese at the University of Washington and interviewed 10 of them. From their responses, the researcher identified four de/motivational factors: (1) teachers, (2) feedback, (3) difficulty of the class, and (4) feeling of progress. These findings also suggest that the impacts of these factors occur at different levels, take different forms, and have different strengths. The study also discusses the psychology of students underlying the influence of these de/motivational factors. Furthermore, students most frequently mentioned “teachers” and “feeling of progress,” which partially agrees with four previous related studies. Finally, the researcher briefly discusses the teachers’ perspective.