bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fat Content in Liver and Skeletal Muscle Changes in a Reciprocal Manner in Patients with Acromegaly during Combination Therapy with a Somatostatin Analog and a GH Receptor Antagonist: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Madsen Michael , Krusenstjerna-Hafstrøm Thomas , Møller Louise , Christensen Britt , Vendelbo Mikkel Holm , Pedersen Steen B. , Frystyk Jan , Jessen Niels , Hansen Troels Krarup , Stødkilde-Jørgensen Hans , Flyvbjerg Allan , Jørgensen Jens Otto L.
Published: February 2012

Context:

Pegvisomant is a GH antagonist, which is used for the treatment of acromegalic patients. It effectively blocks the hepatic and peripheral effects of GH, but transient elevations in circulating liver enzymes of unknown pathogenesis may occur, which seems to be more prevalent when the treatment is combined with a somatostatin analog (SA). Accumulation of intrahepatic lipid is a known cause of elevated liver enzymes, and there is evidence to suggest that GH impacts lipid content in liver and skeletal muscle.

Objective:

Our objective was to measure lipid content in liver and skeletal muscle in acromegalic patients before and after cotreatment with pegvisomant and SA as compared with SA monotherapy.

Design:

Eighteen acromegalic patients well controlled on SA monotherapy were randomized in a parallel study over 24 wk to 1) unchanged SA monotherapy, or 2) cotreatment with pegvisomant (15–30 mg twice a week) and SA (half the usual dosage).

Setting:

This was an investigator-initiated study in a single tertiary referral center.

Main Outcome Measures:

Intrahepatic lipid (IHL) and intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) was assessed by 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results:

IHL increased in the cotreatment group compared with SA only (P = 0.002). The increase was positively correlated to weekly pegvisomant dose (r2 = 0.52; P = 0.01). By contrast, IMCL decreased in the cotreatment group compared with SA only (P = 0.01). These changes related neither to insulin sensitivity nor inflammatory markers.

Conclusion:

Cotreatment with pegvisomant and a reduced SA dose increase IHL and decrease IMCL compared with SA monotherapy. The clinical implications remain unclear, but increased IHL may be causally linked to the transient elevations in liver enzymes observed during pegvisomant treatment.
V1b and CRHR1 Receptor Heterodimerization Mediates Synergistic Biological Actions of Vasopressin and CRH
Authors: Murat Brigitte , Devost Dominic , Andrés Miriam , Mion Julie , Boulay Véra , Corbani Maithé , Zingg Hans H. , Guillon Gilles
Published: February 2012

Vasopressin (AVP) and CRH synergistically regulate adrenocorticotropin and insulin release at the level of the pituitary and pancreas, respectively. Here, we first extended these AVP and CRH coregulation processes to the adrenal medulla. We demonstrate that costimulation of chromaffin cells by AVP and CRH simultaneously induces a catecholamine secretion exceeding the one induced by each hormone alone, thus demonstrating a net potentiation. To further elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying this synergism, we coexpressed human V1b and CRH receptor (CRHR)1 receptor in HEK293 cells. In this heterologous system, AVP also potentiated CRH-stimulated cAMP accumulation in a dose-dependent and saturable manner. This effect was only partially mimicked by phorbol ester or inhibited by a phospholipase C inhibitor respectively. This finding suggests the existence of an new molecular mechanism, independent from second messenger cross talk. Similarly, CRH potentiated the AVP-induced inositol phosphates production. Using bioluminescence resonance energy transfer, coimmunoprecipitation, and receptor rescue experiments, we demonstrate that V1b and CRHR1 receptors assemble as heterodimers. Moreover, new pharmacological properties emerged upon receptors cotransfection. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that direct molecular interactions between V1b and CRHR1 receptors play an important role in mediating the synergistic interactions between these two receptors.
ETTIN (ARF3) physically interacts with KANADI proteins to form a functional complex essential for integument development and polarity determination in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kelley Dior R. , Arreola Alexandra , Gallagher Thomas L. , Gasser Charles S.
Published: February 2012

KANADI (KAN) transcription factors promote abaxial cell fate throughout plant development and are required for organ formation during embryo, leaf, carpel and ovule development. ABERRANT TESTA SHAPE (ATS, or KAN4) is necessary during ovule development to maintain the boundary between the two ovule integuments and to promote inner integument growth. Yeast two-hybrid assays identified ETTIN (ETT, or AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR 3) as a transcription factor that could physically interact with ATS. ATS and ETT were shown to physically interact in vivo in transiently transformed tobacco epidermal cells using bimolecular fluorescence complementation. ATS and ETT were found to share an overlapping expression pattern during Arabidopsis ovule development and loss of either gene resulted in congenital fusion of the integuments and altered seed morphology. We hypothesize that in wild-type ovules a physical interaction between ATS and ETT allows these proteins to act in concert to define the boundary between integument primordia. We further show protein-protein interaction in yeast between ETT and KAN1, a paralog of ATS. Thus, a direct physical association between ETT and KAN proteins underpins their previously described common role in polarity establishment and organogenesis. We propose that ETT-KAN protein complex(es) constitute part of an auxin-dependent regulatory module that plays a conserved role in a variety of developmental contexts.
CFTR regulation in human airway epithelial cells requires integrity of the actin cytoskeleton and compartmentalized cAMP and PKA activity
Authors: Monterisi Stefania , Favia Maria , Guerra Lorenzo , Cardone Rosa A. , Marzulli Domenico , Reshkin Stephan J. , Casavola Valeria , Zaccolo Manuela
Published: February 2012

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutation ΔF508CFTR still causes regulatory defects when rescued to the apical membrane, suggesting that the intracellular milieu might affect its ability to respond to cAMP regulation. We recently reported that overexpression of the Na+/H+ exchanger regulatory factor NHERF1 in the cystic fibrosis (CF) airway cell line CFBE41o-rescues the functional expression of ΔF508CFTR by promoting F-actin organization and formation of the NHERF1–ezrin–actin complex. Here, using real-time FRET reporters of both PKA activity and cAMP levels, we find that lack of an organized subcortical cytoskeleton in CFBE41o-cells causes both defective accumulation of cAMP in the subcortical compartment and excessive cytosolic accumulation of cAMP. This results in reduced subcortical levels and increased cytosolic levels of PKA activity. NHERF1 overexpression in CFBE41o-cells restores chloride secretion, subcortical cAMP compartmentalization and local PKA activity, indicating that regulation of ΔF508CFTR function requires not only stable expression of the mutant CFTR at the cell surface but also depends on both generation of local cAMP signals of adequate amplitude and activation of PKA in proximity of its target. Moreover, we found that the knockdown of wild-type CFTR in the non-CF 16HBE14o-cells results in both altered cytoskeletal organization and loss of cAMP compartmentalization, whereas stable overexpression of wt CFTR in CF cells restores cytoskeleton organization and re-establishes the compartmentalization of cAMP at the plasma membrane. This suggests that the presence of CFTR on the plasma membrane influences the cytoskeletal organizational state and, consequently, cAMP distribution. Our data show that a sufficiently high concentration of cAMP in the subcortical compartment is required to achieve PKA-mediated regulation of CFTR activity.
Direct role of Bardet–Biedl syndrome proteins in transcriptional regulation
Authors: Gascue Cecilia , Tan Perciliz L. , Cardenas-Rodriguez Magdalena , Libisch Gabriela , Fernandez-Calero Tamara , Liu Yangfan P. , Astrada Soledad , Robello Carlos , Naya Hugo , Katsanis Nicholas , Badano Jose L.
Published: February 2012

Primary cilia are conserved organelles that play crucial roles as mechano- and chemosensors, as well as transducing signaling cascades. Consequently, ciliary dysfunction results in a broad range of phenotypes: the ciliopathies. Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS), a model ciliopathy, is caused by mutations in 16 known genes. However, the biochemical functions of the BBS proteins are not fully understood. Here we show that the BBS7 protein (localized in the centrosomes, basal bodies and cilia) probably has a nuclear role by virtue of the presence of a biologically confirmed nuclear export signal. Consistent with this observation, we show that BBS7 interacts physically with the polycomb group (PcG) member RNF2 and regulate its protein levels, probably through a proteasome-mediated mechanism. In addition, our data supports a similar role for other BBS proteins. Importantly, the interaction with this PcG member is biologically relevant because loss of BBS proteins leads to the aberrant expression of endogenous RNF2 targets in vivo, including several genes that are crucial for development and for cellular and tissue homeostasis. Our data indicate a hitherto unappreciated, direct role for the BBS proteins in transcriptional regulation and potentially expand the mechanistic spectrum that underpins the development of ciliary phenotypes in patients.
The antioxidant enzyme peroxiredoxin and its protective role in neurological disorders
Authors: Zhu Hong , Santo Arben , Li Yunbo
Published: February 2012

Peroxiredoxin (Prx) represents a family of sulfhydryl-dependent peroxidases that reduce hydrogen peroxide and organic hydroperoxides to water and alcohols, respectively. There are six known mammalian isozymes (Prx1–6), classified as typical 2-Cys, atypical 2-Cys, or 1-Cys Prxs. In addition to their well-established peroxide-scavenging activity, Prxs also participate in the regulation of various cell signaling pathways. Experimental studies provide substantial evidence for a protective role of Prxs in various neurological disorders involving oxidative and inflammatory stress. There is also evidence suggesting a potential benefit of Prxs in certain neurological diseases in human subjects. This review first describes the biochemical properties and molecular regulation of Prxs, then summarizes the major findings on the neuroprotective functions of Prxs and finally discusses the feasibility of using natural compounds, including those from herbal remedies to augment Prx expression to counteract oxidative neurological disorders.
Chitosan oligosaccharides promote reverse cholesterol transport and expression of scavenger receptor BI and CYP7A1 in mice
Authors: Zong Chuanlong , Yu Yang , Song Guohua , Luo Tian , Li Luqin , Wang Xinnong , Qin Shucun
Published: February 2012

Chitosan oligosaccharides (COS) are beneficial in improving plasma lipids and diminishing atherosclerotic risks. In this study, we examined the effects of COS on reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) in C57BL/6 mice. 3H-cholesterol-laden macrophages were injected intraperitoneally into mice fed with various dosage of COS (250, 500, 1000 mg/kg mouse weight, respectively) or vehicle by gastric gavages. Plasma lipid level was determined and 3H-cholesterol was traced in plasma, liver, bile and feces. The effects of COS on hepatic cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and scavenger receptor BI (SR-BI) expression were also investigated. COS administration led to a significant decrease in plasma total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and a significant increase in peritoneal macrophage-derived 3H-cholesterol in liver and bile as well as in feces. Liver protein expressions of CYP7A1, SR-BI and LDL receptor (LDL-R) were improved in a dosage-dependent manner in COS-administered mice. Our findings provide the first in vivo demonstration of a positive role for COS in RCT pathway and hepatic CYP7A1 and SR-BI expression in mice. Additionally, the LDL cholesterol lowering effect might be relative to hepatic LDL-R expression stimulated by COS in mice.
Commentary
Authors: Gilling Daniel
Published: February 2012

There are several internal issues that the Metropolitan Police must address to get their house in order and to deliver the kind of service that Londoners demand. Police reform here includes the continuance of a modernisation programme to ensure they are fit to deliver local neighbourhood policing in the diverse social context of twenty-first-century London, with the support of communities being critical to the success, for example, of their stop-and-search policies in pursuit of youth knife crime.
Law Enforcement's Role in Us Counterterrorism Strategy
Authors: Brooks Bret E.
Published: February 2012

The purpose of this article is to examine what counter- and anti-terrorism techniques are currently being implemented in American law enforcement, and to compare those techniques against other countries' law enforcement systems for combating terrorism. Recommendations are made for future approaches for American law enforcement's response to terrorism. Utilising currently effective anti-terrorism and counterterrorism measures, eliminating ineffective measures, and including foreign measures that have been proven to work, the United States law enforcement approach for combating terrorism will become more effective and efficient.
Evolving Strategies: A Historical Examination of Changes in Principle, Authority and Function to Inform Policing in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Scott Julia E.
Published: February 2012

Since September 11th, evolving social values and civic priorities suggest the need to revisit current policing styles and strategies in order to best meet the needs of society. To provide a basis for determining which style of policing is most appropriate in contemporary society, this narrative examines how policing has evolved through a presentation of traditional ‘Peelian’ philosophy as compared and contrasted to the contemporary community-oriented approach. The ontogeny of policing is presented in historical phases to clearly depict the changes implemented, examining philosophical principles, power, and function. A discussion regarding measurement of police effectiveness lends further consideration to the efficacy of current policing strategies. Contradictions in policing styles, along with implementation of adversarial police structures, bring about dubious outcomes in practical application. To remain effective, police style and strategies must acknowledge structural and organisational hardships and remain mindful of the citizens they ‘serve and protect’ in the process.
The Influencers of Job Satisfaction in Demanding Crime Investigation
Authors: Kankaanranta Terhi
Published: February 2012

Job satisfaction influences employees' labour supply decisions, such as decisions to change workplaces. Therefore, it is essentially important to identify the influencers of it. The police organisations are expecting an increase in retirements due to an aging population. Therefore, to prevent recruitment difficulties new hires are needed to replace retired employees. The general reputation of an occupation, strongly influenced by job satisfaction, plays a key role when people make decisions regarding their future careers.

This study extends the research of job satisfaction in police organisations in Finland by analysing investigators working in sectors rarely studied before: officers working in demanding and long-standing crime investigation. The investigators of economic, narcotic and violent crimes were found to be satisfied or very satisfied with their work. Explorative factor analysis revealed that factors influencing job satisfaction were related to leadership, working environment, flow of information, payment system, work content and employer image.
The Erosion of Civil Liberties: Pre-Charge Detention and Counter-Terror Laws
Authors: Awan Imran
Published: February 2012

The Terrorism Act 2000 was enacted in order to combat the international threat. The subsequent events of 9/11 in 2001 and July 7 in 2005 led to further legislation, resulting in the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001, the Prevention of Terrorism Act 2005 and the Terrorism Act 2006. The legislation created control orders, the right to detain suspects for 28 days and the offence of glorifying terrorist activities. Critics argue that these offences infringe upon our civil liberties, including the right to freedom of speech, the right to a fair trial, and the right to freedom of association under the Human Rights Act 1998 (HRA). The article will examine the challenges posed for the government by the counter-terrorism legislation, namely the pre-charge detention rules under the Terrorism Act 2006, as the civil liberties debate continues.
Customer Uncertainty following Downsizing: The Effects of Extent of Downsizing and Open Communication
Authors: Homburg Christian , Klarmann Martin , Staritz Sabine
Published: February 2012

Although downsizing has become a nearly universal managerial practice, many downsizing initiatives fail. To explain this phenomenon, previous research has mainly investigated possible negative consequences for employees remaining in the firm while largely neglecting customer reactions to downsizing and the issues surrounding its implementation. The authors describe three studies analyzing how downsizing at a firm's point of customer contact affects customers and how managers can influence customer reactions through open communication. The first study, a manager study, is based on an executive survey of a sample of more than 100 downsizing projects. The other two studies are customer studies that use an experimental scenario method. Across the two methods, results show that the extent of downsizing is linked to customer uncertainty. In addition, both survey results and experimental results reveal that open downsizing communication carries substantial risks for downsizing firms. Although open communication reduces customer uncertainty if customers have strong informal ties with the firm's employees or perceive a firm's products as important, it may increase customer uncertainty in other situations.
Energy Efficient Driving and Operation Strategies Based on Situation Awareness and Reasoning
Authors: Nienhüser Dennis , Bär Tobias , Kohlhaas Ralf , Schamm Thomas , Zimmermann Jochen , Gumpp Thomas , Strand Marcus , Bringmann Oliver , Zöllner Johann Marius
Published: February 2012

A vehicle´s basic energy consumption is determined by its design, but the driving behavior is another important factor having a major influence on the overall consumption. In this work we show how information technology can be used to gain an understanding of the whole traffic situation and use it to derive energy optimal behavior. It can be used to optimize operation strategies and in cooperation with the driver helping him to maximize fuel saving by anticipatory driving. We summarize the research challenges that need to be solved to create energy efficiency assistance systems and present an overview of our solutions.
Dynamic changes of the Golgi apparatus during bovine in vitro oocyte maturation
Authors: Racedo S E , Rawe V Y , Niemann H
Published: February 2012

For successful fertilization by the male gamete, oocyte cytoplasmic organelles such as the Golgi apparatus have to undergo specific changes: the entire process is known as cytoplasmic maturation. The goal of this study was to unravel the dynamics of the Golgi apparatus in bovine oocytes at critical stages ofin vitromaturation, i.e. germinal vesicle (GV), GV breakdown (GVBD), metaphase I (MI) and metaphase II, and to investigate the role of various molecules critically involved therein. The cytoplasmic distribution of proteins was assessed by immunocytochemistry and laser confocal microscopy. We applied specific inhibitors, including nocodazole to unravel the functional role of the microtubular elements; sodium orthovanadate, which primarily inhibits cytoplasmic dynein ATPase activity; monastrol which inhibits the kinesin EG5; and roscovitine to inhibit the kinase cyclin-dependent kinase 2A (CDC2A). Prior to GVBD, the Golgi apparatus was translocated from the centre of the cytoplasm to the cortical area in the periphery, where it underwent fragmentation. A second translocation was observed between GVBD and MI stages, when the Golgi apparatus was moved from the cortex to the centre of the cytoplasm. Incubation with the specific inhibitors revealed that microtubules played an active role in the final localization at GVBD, while CDC2A was essential for Golgi fragmentation at GVBD stage. This partitioning was a precondition for the second movement. In conclusion, for the first time we show basic mechanisms critically involved in the regulation of the dynamic changes of Golgi apparatus during meiosis of the bovine oocyte.
Topics in Neonatal Informatics
Authors: Palma Jonathan P. , Brown Patrick J. , Lehmann Christoph U. , Longhurst Christopher A.
Published: February 2012

Displaying the vast amount of clinical data that exist in electronic medical records without causing information overload or interfering with provider thought processes is a challenge. To support the transformation of data into information and knowledge, effective electronic displays must be flexible and guide physicians’ thought processes. Applying research from cognitive science and human factors engineering offers promise in improving the electronic display of clinical information.
Antimicrobial Therapy and Late Onset Sepsis
Authors: Chu Alison , Hageman Joseph R. , Schreiber Michael , Alexander Kenneth
Published: February 2012

Late onset sepsis infections contribute a significant proportion of the morbidity and mortality of hospitalized infants, especially in very low birth weight infants. Although it is fairly clear which infants are at higher risk of developing sepsis, it is less clear whether a standard for diagnostic evaluation exists and is being used consistently across institutions. In the current setting of changing epidemiology and emergence of antibiotic-resistant organisms, it is important to evaluate the antimicrobial agents used for empirical therapy and to emphasize the importance of antimicrobial stewardship. In addition, it is imperative to evaluate possible methods for prevention of these infections.
Load tests of damaged railroad timber stringers repaired by shear spiking
Authors: Forsling Henrik P. , Gutkowski Richard M. , Radford Don W. , Balogh Jeno
Published: February 2012

The effectiveness of intentionally damaged full-size timber bridge members repaired by shear spiking was examined experimentally. Pultruded fibre-glass composite rods are inserted vertically through areas of damage to rejuvenate the horizontal shear properties of timber members. An epoxy-resin adhesive is used to bond the fibre-glass shear spikes to the wood and partially fill adjacent cracks and decay voids. Eight full-size railroad bridge timber stringers were intentionally damaged by partial or complete saw cuts through the width of the members to simulate minor and major deterioration, after which they were stiffened through the process of shear spiking. Although minor damage had much lower initial effects than major damage, significant percentage recovery of lost stiffness occurred in all members.
Response of corroded prestressed beams with bonded strands
Authors: Castel Arnaud , Coronelli Dario , François Raoul
Published: February 2012

Deterioration of post-tensioned structures may take place as a consequence of severe environmental conditions or design or construction errors. This paper investigates analytically the effects of corrosion on the structural response of bonded post-tensioned beams. An experimental study on the stress corrosion of prestressing wires is described first, providing data on the steel behaviour. A series of tests on beams taken from the literature is then analysed. The breaking of a part of the wires was caused by artificial corrosion; the beams showed stiffness and strength deterioration as a consequence of further breakages occurring under imposed load. Two different analytical approaches are used: macro finite-element analysis based on the calculation of the cross-section response and non-linear finite-element analysis. The analyses provide the global response and local strain values with the interpretation of the causes of the deterioration of the response.
Trend analyses of hierarchical pin‐point cover data
Authors: Damgaard Christian
Published: February 2012

The use of state‐space models for analyzing longitudinal hierarchical pin‐point plant cover data is demonstrated. The main advantages of using a state‐space model are (1) that the observed variance is separated into sampling variance and the more interesting structural variance which are needed for quantifying prediction uncertainty, (2) that missing values or an unbalanced sampling design readily may be accounted for, and (3) that the structural equation easily may be expanded and made as complex as necessary for modeling longitudinal pin‐point cover data, thus allowing the incorporation of the most important ecological processes in the state‐space model without technical difficulties. Typically, there is considerable spatial variation in plant abundance, and this variation is modeled using the Pólya‐Eggenberger distribution (a generalization of the beta‐binomial distribution). To illustrate this method, longitudinal hierarchical pin‐point data ofErica tetralixin wet Danish heathlands were analyzed, including and excluding autocorrelation and an environmental covariable in the state‐space model. The pin‐point plant cover data showed a significant decrease in the plant cover ofE. tetralixin the period from 2004 to 2009, with an annual decrease of about 10% in the logit‐transformed cover. The distribution of predicted plant cover at a given site the following year was calculated, including and excluding the information of an environmental covariable.
Modeling the Effects of Victim Behavior and Moral Character on Prosecutors’ Charging Decisions in Sexual Assault Cases
Authors: Beichner Dawn , Spohn Cassia
Published: February 2012

Prior research, modeling the effects of the victim’s behavior and character on prosecutors’ charging decisions, has used either a dichotomous variable that reflects the presence of any risky behavior or moral character issues or an additive index that captures the number of related items in a case file. We suggest that these measures do not adequately identify the specific issues that prosecutors take into consideration when making charging decisions. Using data on 666 sexual assault cases that resulted in arrest in three urban jurisdictions and a multivariate modeling strategy, we examine specific risk-taking behaviors and issues related to the victim’s moral character in an effort to determine if certain behaviors and characteristics have a more substantial effect on charging decisions than others. We also examine the extent to which the effects of these blame and believability factors vary based on the nature of the cases. Our results reveal that although charging decisions in stranger cases are largely determined by legally relevant factors, these decisions in nonstranger cases are affected by several legally irrelevant victim characteristics: whether the victim had a prior criminal record, whether the victim had been drinking alcohol prior to the assault, and whether the victim invited the suspect to her residence. Further analysis, however, revealed that only the victim’s prior record had a differential effect on charging decisions in cases involving strangers and nonstrangers and in aggravated and simple rape cases. Our results suggest that the focal concerns that guide prosecutors’ charging decisions incorporate specific victim behaviors and background characteristics.
Separation and determination of dimethylarsenate in natural waters
Authors: Ben Issa , Marinkovic Aleksandar , Rajakovic Ljubinka
Published: February 2012

A simple and efficient method for separation and determination of
dimethylarsenate DMAs(V) was developed in this work. Two resins, a strong
base anion exchange (SBAE) resin and iron-oxide coated hybrid (HY) resin were
tested. By simple adjusting pH value of water at 7.00, DMAs(V) passed through
the HY column without any changes, while all other arsenic species [inorganic
arsenic and monomethylarsonate, MMAs(V)] were quantitatively bonded on HY
resin. The resin capacity was calculated according to the breakthrough points
in a fixed bed flow system. At pH 7.00 the HY resins bonded more than 4150 ?g
g-1 of As(III), 3500 ?g g-1 of As(V) and 1500 ?g g1 of MMAs(V). Arsenic
adsorption behavior in the presence of impurities showed tolerance with the
respect to potential interference of anions commonly found in natural water.
DMAs(V) was determined in the effluent by ICP-MS. The detection limit was
0.03 ?g L?1 and relative standard deviation (RSD) was between 1.1?7.5 %.
Proposed method was established performing standard procedures: with external
standard, certified reference material and the standard addition method.
Determination of morphine, codeine and 6-monoacetylmorphine in saliva of substance-abuse patients using HPLC/MS methods
Authors: Milovanovic Vesna , Ciric Biljana , Milenkovic Jasna , Kilibarda Vesna , Curcic Marijana , Vucinic Slavica , Antonijevic Biljana
Published: February 2012

Background/Aim. Saliva represents an alternative specimen for substances
abuse determination in toxicology. Hence, the aim of this study was to
optimize a method for saliva specimen preparation for heroin metabolites,
morphine and 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-mam), and codeine determination by
liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS), and to apply this method on
saliva samples taken from the patients. Methods. Saliva specimen was prepared
using liqiud/liquid extraction of morphine, codeine and 6- mam by mixture of
chloroform and isopropanol (9 : 1; v/v). Extracts were analysed by HPLC/MS
technique: separation column Waters Spherisorb? 5 ?m, ODS2, 4.6 ? 100 mm;
mobile phase: ammonium acetate : acetonitile (80 : 20; v/v), mobile phase
flow rate 0.3 mL/min; mass detection range: 100-400 m/z. Regression and
correlation analyses were performed with the probalility level of 0.05.
Concentrations of morphine, codeine and 6-mam were determined in saliva
samples of the patients with ?opiates? in urine identified by the test
strips. Results. Calibration for each analysed substance was done in the
concentration range from 0.1 to 1 mg/L and the coefficient of correlation was
R2 > 0.99. We obtained following calibration curves: y = 385531x + 14584; y =
398036x + 31542; and y = 524162x - 27105, for morphine, codeine and 6-mam,
respectively. Recovery for morphine and codeine determination was 99%, while
for 6- mam it was 94%. Limits of detection and quantification of a proposed
method were 0.01 mg/L and 0.05 mg/L, respectively. Concentration of morphine
in the saliva of the heroin users ranged between 0.54 and 5.82 mg/L,
concentration of codeine between 0.05 and 5.33, and 6-mam between 0.01 and
0.68 mg/L. A statistically significant correlation between codeine and 6-mam
concentrations was obtained. Conclusion. A proposed HPLC/MS method for
morphine, codeine and 6-mam determination in saliva is accurate, simple,
cheap and suitable for routine analysis and monitoring of heroin abuse.
Efficacy of TNF-α antagonist and other immunomodulators in the treatment of patients with ophthalmologic manifestations of Behcet's disease and HLA B51 positive vasculitis
Authors: Zlatanovic Gordana , Jovanovic Svetlana , Veselinovic Dragan , Zivkovic Maja
Published: February 2012

Bacground/Aim. Behcet's disease is genetically conditioned, immune-mediated
multisystem occlusive vasculitis of small blood vessels, espesially venules,
of unknown etiology. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical
features, disease activity and therapy of the patients with ophthalmologic
manifestation of Behcet's disease. Methods. In this study symptoms and signs
of the disease were analyzed both prospectively and retrospectively during
the active manifestation of the disease. The diagnosis was reached according
to the International Criteria for Behcet's Disease (2006). The treatment
effects were evaluated based on the presence of the best corrected visual
acuity and the inflammation of the vitreous humour before and after the
application of our therapeutic method. The applied therapeutic modality
consisted of the primary application of corticosteroid therapy in the active
stage of the disease complemented with the choice of drugs from the
immunosuppressive group. In this study there drugs were cyclosporine or
methotrexate. A treatment refractory patients with poor vision prognosis were
treated with a third drug, the biological preparation infliximab, a tumor
necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-?) antagonist. Results. The mean age of 11
patients with ophthalmologic manifestation of Behcet's disease was 50.6
years. HLA B-5(51) was positive in 81% of the patients while 36% of the
patients had positive pathergy test. Changes in affected eyes included
vitritis (100%), posterior uveitis (45%), panuveitis (54%), retinal
vasculitis (54%), cystoid macular edema (54%), and cystoid degeneration
(18%). Increased intraocular pressure was observed in 27% of the patients.
There was no statistically significant variation in disease activity
parameters in any of the patients (p > 0.05). A statistically significant
improvement in visual acuity (p < 0.05) and a high statistically significant
decrease of inflammation of the worst affected eyes (p = 0.001) were
detected. Conclusion. Our therapeutic method is useful for producing the
optimal therapeutic plan for the acute - chronic stage of the difficult
ophtamological manifestation of Behcet's desease as well as the prevention of
relapse. However the high cost of the therapy and the potential complications
should be taken into consideration when prescribing this therapy, especially
a TNF-? antagonist.
The Effect of Change in the Reporting Threshold and Type of Control Deficiency on Equity Analysts' Evaluation of the Reliability of Future Financial Statements
Authors: Asare Stephen K. , Wright Arnold M.
Published: February 2012

We examine the joint effects of reporting threshold (more than remote versus reasonably possible) and type of control deficiency (entity level versus account specific) as described in the adverse report on internal controls on equity analysts' evaluation of the reliability of a company's future financial statements. We hypothesize that equity analysts interpret a “more than remote” threshold to mean a significantly lower likelihood than a “reasonable possibility” threshold. We also hypothesize that when the reporting threshold is more than remote, equity analysts who evaluate an entity level material weakness will indicate a higher likelihood of future material misstatements than those who evaluate an account specific material weakness. However, when the reporting threshold is reasonably possible, equity analysts will assess the same likelihood of future misstatements for both types of material weakness. The results from an experiment that employed 65 equity analysts support our hypotheses. Taken together, the findings suggest that the change to the “reasonably possible” regime has made the account specific material weakness more consequential in evaluating the reliability of the future financial statements but had no effect on the evaluation of entity level material weaknesses.
Geographic Proximity between Auditor and Client: How Does It Impact Audit Quality?
Authors: Choi Jong-Hag , Kim Jeong-Bon , Qiu Annie A. , Zang Yoonseok
Published: February 2012

Using a large sample of audit client firms, this paper investigates whether and how the geographic proximity between auditor and client affects audit quality proxied by accrual-based earnings quality. We define an auditor as a local auditor (1) if the auditor's practicing office is located in the same metropolitan statistical area (MSA) as the client's headquarters, and (2) if the geographic distance between the two cities where the auditor's practicing office and the client's headquarters are located is within 100 kilometers, or they are in the same MSA. As predicted, our empirical results are consistent with local auditors providing higher-quality audit services than non-local auditors. In addition, as predicted, this quality difference is weakened for diversified clients with more operating or geographic segments. The results are robust to a variety of sensitivity checks. Overall, our evidence suggests that informational advantages associated with local audits enable auditors to better constrain management's biased earnings reporting, with greater advantages for less diversified clients.

JEL Classification: M42.
Technology-Driven Convergence of Business Processes in the Acquisition Cycle: Implications for Accountants and Educators
Authors: Palmer Richard J. , Gupta Mahendra R.
Published: February 2012

Organizations have sought competitive cost advantage in the acquisition cycle through software associated with e-procurement, expense management, payment technology, data mining, ERP “bolt-ons,” and regulatory compliance. The net effect of advancing technology has been a convergence of the different business processes operating within the acquisition cycle such that the potential exists for one basic procurement process and payment tool to support multiple business applications, greatly improving organizational efficiency. Thus, this paper examines (1) processes within the traditional acquisition cycle and the technological and control drivers that sustain them, (2) how emerging technologies (in particular, card-based payment technologies) are disrupting the acquisition cycle, and (3) how new technology represents a paradigm shift for accountants and educators that requires a significant reconsideration of the nature of and balance between key controls, risks, and efficiency. The paper also examines the impact of acquisition cycle change on organizational structures, the role of accountants, accounting education, and student preparation for the competitive market.
Understanding the Intention to Adopt XBRL: An Environmental Perspective
Authors: Henderson David , Sheetz Steven D. , Trinkle Bradley S.
Published: February 2012

Based on a survey of 52 U.S.-based organizations, this study investigates the influence of perceptions of environmental factors on an organization's intention to adopt XBRL, after controlling for the SEC mandate. Reflecting the view of XBRL as both a technical innovation and a standard for financial reporting, the selection of environmental factors was derived from institutional theory and from the standards adoption literature. The results suggest that perceived mimetic and normative pressures, as well as perceptions of network technologies and related technologies that facilitate the use of XBRL, exert a significant positive influence on XBRL adoption even after controlling for the effects of the SEC mandate.
Xilinx, Stock Option Pricing, and the Meaning of Arm's Length
Authors: Wilkinson Brett R. , Noga Tracy J.
Published: February 2012

In this paper, we examine the controversy surrounding the Xilinx case and explore what the case means for the future of transfer pricing. Although the IRS acquiesced in the Xilinx result, it expressly disagreed with the reasoning and asserted that the issue is now moot due to the application of the 2009 regulations. In sharp contrast, multiple commentators have expressed the view that the Xilinx result might in fact render the 2009 regulations invalid. For this reason, it is apparent that significant uncertainty continues to surround the central issues in Xilinx, namely, the way that stock option costs should be treated in cost sharing arrangements. In this paper, we explore what happened in Xilinx and why it matters. We then examine the implications of these developments for the future of transfer pricing, suggesting that this is potentially a watershed moment in the history of transfer pricing and the meaning of arm's length. We conclude that the Supreme Court's decision in Mayo means that the 2009 regulations are likely to stand. However, we also suggest that the IRS may have erred in not appealing the Xilinx decision because of the fundamental importance of establishing a true understanding of arm's length. The current interpretation, as articulated by the Ninth Circuit, leaves lingering uncertainty and appears to place the U.S. at odds with the position of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
Age-Related Loss of Brain Volume and T2 Relaxation Time in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Pell Gaby S. , Lin Ashleigh , Wellard R. Mark , Werther George A. , Cameron Fergus J. , Finch Sue J. , Papoutsis Jennifer , Northam Elisabeth A.
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE—2

Childhood-onset type 1 diabetes is associated with neurocognitive deficits, but there is limited evidence to date regarding associated neuroanatomical brain changes and their relationship to illness variables such as age at disease onset. This report examines age-related changes in volume and T2 relaxation time (a fundamental parameter of magnetic resonance imaging that reflects tissue health) across the whole brain.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—

Type 1 diabetes, N = 79 (mean age 20.32 ± 4.24 years), and healthy control participants, N = 50 (mean age 20.53 ± 3.60 years). There were no substantial group differences on socioeconomic status, sex ratio, or intelligence quotient.

RESULTS—

Regression analyses revealed a negative correlation between age and brain changes, with decreasing gray matter volume and T2 relaxation time with age in multiple brain regions in the type 1 diabetes group. In comparison, the age-related decline in the control group was small. Examination of the interaction of group and age confirmed a group difference (type 1 diabetes vs. control) in the relationship between age and brain volume/T2 relaxation time.

CONCLUSIONS—

We demonstrated an interaction between age and group in predicting brain volumes and T2 relaxation time such that there was a decline in these outcomes in type 1 diabetic participants that was much less evident in control subjects. Findings suggest the neurodevelopmental pathways of youth with type 1 diabetes have diverged from those of their healthy peers by late adolescence and early adulthood but the explanation for this phenomenon remains to be clarified.
Association of Coexisting Diabetes and Depression With Mortality After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Bot Mariska , Pouwer François , Zuidersma Marij , van Melle Joost P. , de Jonge Peter
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes and depression are both linked to an increased mortality risk after myocardial infarction (MI). Population-based studies suggest that having both diabetes and depression results in an increased mortality risk, beyond that of having diabetes or depression alone. The purpose of this study was to examine the joint association of diabetes and depression with mortality in MI patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data were derived from two multicenter cohort studies in the Netherlands, comprising 2,704 patients who were hospitalized for MI. Depression, defined as a Beck Depression Inventory score ≥10, and diabetes were assessed during hospitalization. Mortality data were retrieved for 2,525 patients (93%).

RESULTS

During an average follow-up of 6.2 years, 439 patients died. The mortality rate was 14% (226 of 1,673) in patients without diabetes and depression, 23% (49 of 210) in patients with diabetes only, 22% (118 of 544) in patients with depression only, and 47% (46 of 98) in patients with both diabetes and depression. After adjustment for age, sex, smoking, hypertension, left ventricular ejection fraction, prior MI, and Killip class, hazard ratios for all-cause mortality were 1.38 (95% CI 1.00–1.90) for patients with diabetes only, 1.39 (1.10–1.76) for patients with depression only, and as much as 2.90 (2.07–4.07) for patients with both diabetes and depression.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed an increased mortality risk in post-MI patients with both diabetes and depression, beyond the association with mortality of diabetes and depression alone.
Global Prevalence and Major Risk Factors of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Yau Joanne W.Y. , Rogers Sophie L. , Kawasaki Ryo , Lamoureux Ecosse L. , Kowalski Jonathan W. , Bek Toke , Chen Shih-Jen , Dekker Jacqueline M. , Fletcher Astrid , Grauslund Jakob , Haffner Steven , Hamman Richard F. , Ikram M. Kamran , Kayama Takamasa , Klein Barbara E.K. , Klein Ronald , Krishnaiah Sannapaneni , Mayurasakorn Korapat , O’Hare Joseph P. , Orchard Trevor J. , Porta Massimo , Rema Mohan , Roy Monique S. , Sharma Tarun , Shaw Jonathan , Taylor Hugh , Tielsch James M. , Varma Rohit , Wang Jie Jin , Wang Ningli , West Sheila , Xu Liang , Yasuda Miho , Zhang Xinzhi , Mitchell Paul , Wong Tien Y. ,   for the Meta-Analysis for Eye Disease (META-EYE) Study Group
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

To examine the global prevalence and major risk factors for diabetic retinopathy (DR) and vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy (VTDR) among people with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A pooled analysis using individual participant data from population-based studies around the world was performed. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify all population-based studies in general populations or individuals with diabetes who had ascertained DR from retinal photographs. Studies provided data for DR end points, including any DR, proliferative DR, diabetic macular edema, and VTDR, and also major systemic risk factors. Pooled prevalence estimates were directly age-standardized to the 2010 World Diabetes Population aged 20–79 years.

RESULTS

A total of 35 studies (1980–2008) provided data from 22,896 individuals with diabetes. The overall prevalence was 34.6% (95% CI 34.5–34.8) for any DR, 6.96% (6.87–7.04) for proliferative DR, 6.81% (6.74–6.89) for diabetic macular edema, and 10.2% (10.1–10.3) for VTDR. All DR prevalence end points increased with diabetes duration, hemoglobin A1c, and blood pressure levels and were higher in people with type 1 compared with type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

There are approximately 93 million people with DR, 17 million with proliferative DR, 21 million with diabetic macular edema, and 28 million with VTDR worldwide. Longer diabetes duration and poorer glycemic and blood pressure control are strongly associated with DR. These data highlight the substantial worldwide public health burden of DR and the importance of modifiable risk factors in its occurrence. This study is limited by data pooled from studies at different time points, with different methodologies and population characteristics.
Identification of Relations between BDI Logic and BDI Agents
Authors: Grabovskis Arvids , Grundspenkis Janis
Published: February 2012

Identification of Relations between BDI Logic and BDI Agents

BDI (Beliefs, Desires, Intentions) is one of the most popular intelligent agent architectures which was inspired by multi-modal BDI logics. The main idea behind BDI is to implement system's behaviour by specifying it as a set of mental objects. This allows designing systems at a high level of abstraction which come closer to a human-like thinking. Although this architecture has been rapidly developing for about 20 years, its relevance to BDI logic is still arguable. This paper describes the basics of modal logic and main inference algorithms. Main concepts of BDI agents are presented and their relationships with BDI logic are discussed. Finally advantages and disadvantages of implementing BDI interpreter as a theorem prover are discussed.