bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital examination and transvaginal scan – competing or complementary for predicting preterm birth?
Authors: REITER EVA , NIELSEN KURT AAGAARD , FEDDER JENS
Published: December 2011

Abstract  Background. The transvaginal ultrasonographic cervix scan has partly replaced digital examination for diagnosing preterm birth; conflicting results are reported about their respective contribution to birth prediction. Objective. To review the predictive value of digital examination and transvaginal scan in low‐risk asymptomatic and symptomatic women before treatment. Methods. A literature search of PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Databases from 1994 to 2010 and selected reference lists was carried out. Randomized controlled trials, retrospective and prospective cohort studies, outcome research and studies of clinical decision rules were included. Results. The studies showed that methods for the estimation of cervical ripening are not unequivocal nor is the nomenclature for digital examination. Evidence for routine screening for premature cervical ripening in asymptomatic low‐risk women is insufficient. Knowledge of ultrasonographic cervical length in symptomatic women was not associated with a significantly improved outcome in symptomatic women, but may help to reduce length of hospitalization. In women selected by the Bishop Score, a transvaginal scan may reduce the number of false‐positive results. Conclusions. Clarification on the methods for performing cervical assessment is needed. The evidence that transvaginal scanning of the cervix improves outcome in symptomatic women is insufficient. The methods for assessing cervical change should be regarded as complementary.
FoxP3 mRNA splice forms in synovial CD4+ T cells in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis
Authors: RYDER L REBEKKA , BARTELS ELSE MARIE , WOETMANN ANDERS , MADSEN HANS OLE , ØDUM NIELS , BLIDDAL HENNING , DANNESKIOLD‐SAMSØE BENTE , RIBEL‐MADSEN SØREN , RYDER LARS P
Published: December 2011

Ryder LR, Bartels EM, Woetmann A, Madsen HO, Ødum N, Bliddal H, Danneskiold‐Samsøe B, Ribel‐Madsen S, Ryder LP. FoxP3 mRNA splice forms in synovial CD4+ T cells in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. APMIS 2012; 120: 387–96.

Our aim was to elucidate the relative amount of the different splice forms of FoxP3 mRNA in CD4+ T cells in peripheral blood (PB) compared to synovial fluid (SF) in RA and PsA patients. FoxP3 mRNA was measured using a quantitative real‐time PCR method. CD4+ T cells were isolated from 17 paired samples of PB and SF from RA and PsA patients, and PB from 10 controls. FoxP3fl and FoxP3Δ2 mRNA was significantly increased (6.7 and 2.1‐fold, respectively) in PB CD4+ T cells from RA patients compared to controls. FoxP3fl and Δ2 mRNA in SF CD4+ T cells was increased compared to controls in sero‐negative RA and PsA, but not in sero‐positive RA patients, who had a high FoxP3 expression in both PB and SF. The FoxP3Δ2Δ7 mRNA was barely detectable in patient samples, and not at all in healthy individuals. We provide evidence of an increased expression of FoxP3 splice forms in synovial CD4+ T cells from RA patients. A skewed, high expression profile of FoxP3, but not CTLA‐4, in sero‐negative RA and PsA, indicates that synovial CD4+ T cells may represent unique subsets of T cells which have been induced locally or selectively recruited to the joint.
Comparison of final irrigation techniques in removal of calcium hydroxide
Authors: Yücel Ali Çağın , Gürel Melek , Güler Eda , Karabucak Bekir
Published: December 2011

The aim of this study was to compare new irrigation systems with a conventional irrigation technique for the removal of inter‐appointment calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2]. Forty‐seven extracted human single‐rooted teeth were instrumented, and Ca(OH)2 paste was placed into root canals by using a lentulo spiral at the apical third. Teeth were randomly divided into three groups according to different irrigation protocols using a 30‐gauge slot‐tipped needle, EndoVac system and ProUltra® PiezoFlow™ ultrasonic irrigation system. Scanning electron microscopic images of the selected root canal surfaces (cervical, middle and apical third) were evaluated using a 5‐grade scale. The influence of the irrigation system was evaluated using a two‐way analysis of variance test and Tukey's test. The EndoVac and PiezoFlow groups demonstrated the lowest scale values (cleanest canals); however, there was no statistical difference between these two groups. The conventional irrigation group exhibited significantly higher scores (P < 0.05). The conventional needle irrigation was not sufficient to remove Ca(OH)2 from the root canal system. Irrigation with EndoVac and PiezoFlow™ ultrasonic irrigation systems improved the removal of the intracanal medicament resulting in cleaner root canal walls.
Use of Oral Anticoagulation among Stroke Patients with Atrial Fibrillation in China: The ChinaQUEST (Quality Evaluation of Stroke Care and Treatment) Registry Study
Authors: Gao Qingchun , Fu Xian , Wei Jade W. , Chen Xiangyan , Huang Yining , Wang Jiguang , Anderson Craig S. , Wong Ka Sing ,   for the China QUEST Study Investigators
Published: December 2011

Background

International guidelines recommend oral anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation according to their level of stroke risk. This study aimed to determine oral anticoagulation use in atrial fibrillation patients with recent ischemic stroke and examine factors that impact such management in China.

Methods

Among the patients with acute ischemic stroke ( n = 4782) from the China QUality Evaluation of Stroke Care and Treatment study, a multicenter, prospective, 62-hospital registry in China, there were 499 (10%) (mean age 70 ± 12 years, 49% female) with documented atrial fibrillation with outcome data over 12 months of follow-up. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent predictors of oral anticoagulation use in these patients.

Results

Of the 499 stroke patients with atrial fibrillation, oral anticoagulation use was 20% overall but varied from 8% prestroke and 11% in-hospital (poststroke), to 13% and 10% at three-months and 12 months, respectively. Oral anticoagulation use was independently associated with younger age (odds ratio 0·95, 95% confidence interval 0·93–0·97, P < 0·001), nonmanual occupation (odds ratio 0·44, 95% confidence interval 0·25–0·80, P = 0·006), and less cardiovascular risk factors (odds ratio 0·81, 95% confidence interval 0·68–0·96, P = 002).

Conclusions

These data indicate oral anticoagulation use is lower in stroke patients with atrial fibrillation in China than that in Western countries, being applied more often in those of younger age, nonmanual occupation, and having less cardiovascular risk factors.
Hemorrhage after Ischemic Stroke – Relation to Age and Previous Hemorrhage in a Nationwide Cohort of 58 868 Patients
Authors: Åsberg Signild , Henriksson Karin M. , Farahmand Bahman , Terént Andreas
Published: December 2011

Background

In randomized controlled trials of secondary prevention after stroke, the risk of hemorrhage varies between 1% and 5% per year in patients with antithrombotic therapy, i.e. anticoagulants and antiplatelets.

Aim

To explore the rate and the risk of hemorrhage after stroke in a nationwide cohort.

Methods

We identified 58 868 first ever ischemic stroke patients in the Swedish Stroke Register during 2001 to 2005 (=index stroke) and followed them by record linkage to the National Patient Register. Rates of hemorrhage and hazard ratios, for comparisons of rates between subgroups, were calculated.

Results

Of the 58 586 ischemic stroke patients identified, 5527 (9·4%) had a history of hemorrhage. During follow-up (mean 2·0 years), 2876 patients endured a hemorrhage, giving an average hemorrhage rate of 2·6 (95% confidence interval 2·5–2·7) per 100 person-years. After index stroke, 11% of the patients were discharged with anticoagulants, and 79% with antiplatelets. Given the differences in baseline characteristics, the hemorrhage rates (per 100 person-years) were 2·5 (95% confidence interval 2·2–2·8), 2·4 (95% confidence interval 2·3–2·5), and 3·8 (95% confidence interval 3·5–4·2) in patients prescribed anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and no antithrombotics, respectively. There was an increased risk of hemorrhage in patients ≥75 years compared with those <75 years (hazard ratio = 1·61, 95% confidence interval 1·49–1·73) and in patients with previous hemorrhages compared with those without (hazard ratio = 1·82, 95% confidence interval 1·64–2·02).

Conclusions

When antithrombotics were used in large-scale clinical practice, the observed rates of hemorrhage were similar with anticoagulant therapy but increased with antiplatelet therapy compared with rates reported in randomized controlled trials. Old age and previous hemorrhage were associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage after an ischemic stroke.
Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+): game changer or just another quick fix?
Authors: Venter Oscar , Koh Lian Pin
Published: December 2011

Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+) provides financial compensation to land owners who avoid converting standing forests to other land uses. In this paper, we review the main opportunities and challenges for REDD+ implementation, including expectations for REDD+ to deliver on multiple environmental and societal cobenefits. We also highlight a recent case study, the Norway–Indonesia REDD+ agreement and discuss how it might be a harbinger of outcomes in other forest‐rich nations seeking REDD+ funds. Looking forward, we critically examine the fundamental assumptions of REDD+ as a solution for the atmospheric buildup of greenhouse gas emissions and tropical deforestation. We conclude that REDD+ is currently the most promising mechanism driving the conservation of tropical forests. Yet, to emerge as a true game changer, REDD+ must still demonstrate that it can access low transaction cost and high‐volume carbon markets or funds, while also providing or complimenting a suite of nonmonetary incentives to encourage a developing nation's transition from forest losing to forest gaining, and align with, not undermine, a globally cohesive attempt to mitigate anthropogenic climate change.
A Critical Review of Official Public Apologies: Aims, Pitfalls, and a Staircase Model of Effectiveness
Authors: Wohl Michael J. A. , Hornsey Matthew J. , Philpot Catherine R.
Published: December 2011

The world has entered into an “age of apology,” in which governments, armies, and corporations have increasingly begun apologizing for their role in committing historical and contemporary harms. Although it is widely assumed that such apologies help promote intergroup forgiveness, this assumption has not been subjected to a great deal of empirical investigation, and the little research that exists presents a mixed picture. In this article, we present some of the political and ideological arguments for and against providing intergroup apologies. We then critically review the research on the outcomes of apologies, with an eye to developing concrete strategies for maximizing apology effectiveness. Drawing on these discussions, a staircase model for effective intergroup apologies is offered that has implications for social policy. Although we present some pessimism regarding the outcome of intergroup apologies, this article provides arguments for the necessity of formal intergroup apologies and for policy that maximizes their positive effects.
Collective Reactions to Threat: Implications for Intergroup Conflict and for Solving Societal Crises
Authors: Fritsche Immo , Jonas Eva , Kessler Thomas
Published: December 2011

Personal and collective threat can breed ethnocentrism and intergroup conflict. We present a model of group‐based control to elucidate motivational underpinnings of these effects from a social psychological perspective. Reviewed empirical evidence illustrates the effects of personal threat on ethnocentric attitudes. Moreover, evidence reveals that perceived lack of personal control of important aspects of one's life induces people to support and defend social in‐groups. This is because people heuristically believe that groups are homogeneous actors of shared goals that may promise the symbolic restoration of group members’ sense of global control. We discuss the effects complex real‐world threats (economic crises, terrorism, and climate change) have on ethnocentric tendencies and how we explain this within the control model. Finally, we elaborate on implications for reducing ethnocentric threat responses and on possible prosocial consequences of threat that may help to solve societal crises.
Women and Men in Conflicting Social Roles: Implications from Social Psychological Research
Authors: Clow Kimberley A. , Ricciardelli Rosemary
Published: December 2011

Despite legislation for gender equality in many nations, gender discrimination continues to be a problem. Psychological research from social role theory, the stereotype content model, and ambivalent sexism provide insights into the motivations behind gender inequality. This article reviews key research findings from these theoretical perspectives in the realm of gendered occupational inequalities and segregation. The emphasis of the article is on individuals fulfilling social roles that are perceived as conflicting and the consequences of those perceptions. Parents in the workforce, female leaders, and male nurses are used as specific examples of social role conflict. The policy implications from this research—and the issues facing parents in the workforce, female leaders, and male nurses in particular—are discussed.
Understanding cannabis use in first‐episode psychosis: an application of the Theory of Planned Behaviour
Authors: Hames Anna , Evangeli Michael , Harrop Chris , di Forti Marta
Published: December 2011

Aim: The study aims to examine whether an extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model predicts the frequency of past and intended cannabis use in young adults with psychosis.

Methods: A cross‐sectional correlational design was used with 32 participants (aged 18–36 years old) within 3 years (mean = 7 months) of their first psychotic episode. TPB variables and a measure of social influence (descriptive norms) were measured.

Results: The TPB accounted for a large amount of the variance in both the frequency of past cannabis use (25%) and in the intended frequency of future cannabis use (36%). The addition of descriptive norms (beliefs about the frequency of others' cannabis use) accounted for a significant additional amount of the variance in past use (19%). Adding the ‘friends’ component of descriptive norms only led to a model that accounted for 52% of the variance in past cannabis use.

Conclusions: Descriptive social norms should be considered when trying to understand cannabis use in early psychosis. Interventions should take account of the individual's attitude towards cannabis, their perceived control over its use and its social context.
Reforming the International Monetary Fund
Authors: Buckley Ross P.
Published: December 2011

This article explores the International Monetary Fund’s performance through crises ranging from the debt crisis of 1982 to the global financial crisis of 2008. The rise of market fundamentalism in the Fund’s policy prescriptions is analysed and contrasted with its abrogation of market principles in crafting resolutions of crises. Potential reforms to voting rights, culture and perspectives within the Fund are considered, along with what may be required to achieve such vitally needed changes.
Advanced Electrocardiographic Parameters Change with Severity of Mitral Regurgitation in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in Sinus Rhythm
Authors: Špiljak Pakkanen M. , Domanjko Petrič A. , Olsen L.H. , Stepančič A. , Schlegel T.T. , Falk T. , Rasmussen C.E. , Starc V.
Published: December 2011

Background

Multiple advanced resting ECG (A‐ECG) techniques have improved the diagnostic or prognostic value of ECG in detecting human cardiac diseases even before onset of clinical signs or changes in conventional ECG.

Objective

To determine which A‐ECG parameters, derived from 12‐lead A‐ECG recordings, change with severity of mitral regurgitation (MR) caused by myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCSs) in sinus rhythm.

Animals

Seventy‐six privately owned CKCSs.

Methods

Dogs were prospectively divided into 5 groups according to the degree of MR (estimated by color Doppler mapping as the percentage of the left atrial area affected by the MR jet) and presence of clinical signs. High fidelity approximately 5‐minute 12‐lead ECG recordings were evaluated using custom software to calculate multiple conventional and A‐ECG parameters.

Results

Nineteen of 76 ECG parameters were significantly different (P < .05) across the 5 dog groups. A 4‐parameter model that incorporated results from 1 parameter of heart rate variability, 2 parameters of QT variability, and 1 parameter of QRS amplitude was identified that explained 82.4% of the variance with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.60 (P < .01). When age or murmur grade was included in the statistical model the prediction value further increased the R to 0.74 and 0.85 (P < .01), respectively.

Conclusion

In CKCSs with sinus rhythm, 4 selected A‐ECG parameters further improve prediction of MR jet severity beyond age and murmur grade, although the predictive increment in this study probably is not sufficient to warrant utilization in clinical veterinary practice.
Thin-film electronics by atomic layer deposition
Authors: Levy David H. , Nelson Shelby F.
Published: December 2011

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) produces conformal films with low defects and a high degree of thickness control. Many applications leverage these properties to yield excellent dielectrics and barrier layers. In recent years, ALD has been exploited to produce thin-film transistors, in which the technique is capable of producing all of the layers required, including the semiconductor. This perspective will examine the state-of-the-art use of ALD to produce thin-film electronics, notably the zinc oxide-based thin-film transistor. It is critical that the ZnO-based semiconductor material have sufficiently high resistivity in order to yield transistors with low off current and good switching characteristics. The nature of this problem and the approaches used to address it will be discussed. The use of rapid deposition technologies, such as spatial ALD, also has a strong impact on the quality of the ZnO semiconductor. Finally, demonstrations of various thin film electronics devices and systems produced by ALD will be reviewed.
dbGaP Data Access Requests: A Call for Greater Transparency
Authors: Walker Lorelei , Starks Helene , West Kathleen M. , Fullerton Stephanie M.
Published: December 2011

Mandatory data sharing offers scientific advantages, but more transparency around data use is needed to assess health benefits that result from translational research.
Increments for 1H and 13C NMR chemical shifts in pinacol arylboronates
Authors: Qiu Di , Zheng Zhitong , Mo Fanyang , Zhang Yan , Wang Jianbo
Published: December 2011

Arylboronates are important compounds widely used in cross-coupling reactions. By analyzing the NMR spectra data of a variety of pinacol arylboronates, we have determined the increments for 1H and 13C NMR chemical shifts caused by a pinacol boronate substituent in the benzene ring. These data can be used in the estimation of chemical shifts of aromatic pinacol boronates.
Synthesis, structural characterization, and reactivity of late transition-metal complexes bearing linked cyclopentadienyl–carboranyl ligands
Authors: Liu Dongmei , Qiu Zaozao , Chan Hoi-Shan , Xie Zuowei
Published: December 2011

Late transition-metal complexes bearing linked cyclopentadienyl/indenyl–carboranyl ligands were synthesized and their reactivities were examined. Reaction of Li2[Me2C(L)(C2B10H10)] (L = C5H4, C9H6, Me2NCH2CH2C5H3) with MCl2(PPh3)2 in Et2O afforded [η5:σ-Me2C(C5H4)(C2B10H10)]M(PPh3) (M = Co (4), Ni (5)), [η5:σ-Me2C(C9H6)(C2B10H10)]M(PPh3) (M = Co (6), Ni (7)), and [η5:σ-Me2C(Me2NCH2CH2C5H3)(C2B10H10)]Ni(PPh3) (8). Treatment of 4 or 5 with 2,6-dimethylphenylisocyanide, N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC), PCy3, or 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe) gave the corresponding PPh3 displacement complexes [η5:σ-Me2C(C5H4)(C2B10H10)]M(2,6-Me2C6H3NC) (M = Co (9), Ni (10)), [η5:σ-Me2C(C5H4)(C2B10H10)]M[1,3-(2,6-i-Pr2C6H3)2C3N2H2] (M = Co (11), Ni (12)), [η5:σ-Me2C(C5H4)(C2B10H10)]Ni(PCy3) (13), or {[η5:σ-Me2C(C5H4)(C2B10H10)]Co}2(dppe) (14), respectively. These complexes were characterized by various spectroscopic techniques and elemental analyses. The molecular structures of 4–14 were further confirmed by single-crystal X-ray analyses.
Responsive properties of crystalline colloidal arrays formed by core-shell microspheres with pH and temperature sensitivities
Authors: Bazin Gwénaëlle , Zhu X.X.
Published: December 2011

Polymeric microspheres responsive to pH and temperature changes have been prepared by a two-step surfactant-free emulsion polymerization with a polystyrene core and a hydrogel shell. The double sensitivity is achieved by the copolymerization in the shell layer of acrylic acid and N-isopropylacrylamide, which are pH- and thermo-responsive, respectively. Above a certain critical concentration, these microspheres are able to self-assemble into crystalline colloidal arrays, causing intense visible light diffraction. The behavior of these structures has been studied and correlated to the properties of the microspheres. The packing of these microspheres results in stimuli-sensitive colloidal crystals, with a behavior directly linked to the interactions between the particles and the surrounding media.
PHASE CONSTITUENTS AND MICROSTRUCTURE OF Ti3Al/Fe3Al + TiN/TiB2 COMPOSITE COATING ON TITANIUM ALLOY
Authors: LI JIANING , CHEN CHUANZHONG , ZHANG CUIFANG
Published: December 2011

Laser cladding of the Fe3Al + B4C/TiN + Al2O3 pre-placed powders on the Ti-6Al-4V alloy can form the Ti3Al/Fe3Al + TiN/TiB2 composite coating, which improved the wear resistance of the Ti-6Al-4V alloy surface. In this study, the Ti3Al/Fe3Al + TiN/TiB2 composite coating has been researched by means of X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. It was found that during the laser cladding process, Al2O3 can react with TiB2 , leading to the formations of Ti3Al and B . This principle can be used to improve the Fe3Al + B4C/TiN laser-cladded coating on the Ti-6Al-4V alloy. Furthermore, during the cladding process, C consumed the oxygen in Fe3Al + B4C /TiN + Al2O3 molten pool, which retarded the productions of the redundant metal oxides.
MODIFIED SiC-MoSi2 OXIDATION PROTECTIVE COATING FOR SiC-COATED CARBON/CARBON COMPOSITES THROUGH INFILTRATING LIQUID Si
Authors: ZHANG ZHENG-ZHONG , LI HE-JUN , MA CHAO , FU QIAN-GANG , ZHANG YU-LEI , WU HENG , TAO JUN
Published: December 2011

To improve the oxidation resistance of the SiC-MoSi2 coating prepared by two-step pack cementation, a liquid Si infiltrating method was adopted to modify it. The phase composition and microstructure of the coatings were analyzed by XRD and SEM. The results show that the size and number of the cracks in the modified coating decreased evidently after infiltrating Si . The oxidation test results in air at 1773 K show that the mass loss of the SiC-MoSi2 coating coated carbon/carbon (C/C) composites was up to 1.18% after oxidation for 206 h, while that of the modified coating coated C/C composites was only 0.77% after oxidation for 460 h. The reason is that the cracks formed in the pack cementation process were partly sealed and there were no penetrable cracks in the modified coating. Therefore, there were no direct channels for the oxygen to diffuse into the C/C substrate.
PREPARATION AND FERROELECTRIC PROPERTIES OF LEAD-FREE A0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (A = Na OR K) THIN FILMS
Authors: DING Y. L. , ZHANG X. H. , YANG C. H. , ZHANG X. Y. , YANG H. L.
Published: December 2011

Both ferroelectric Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBT) and K0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (KBT) are considered as the best known lead-free materials. In this experiment, we prepared NBT and KBT thin films on Pt/TiO2/SiO2/Si substrates by metalorganic solution deposition. The structural properties and surface morphologies were measured using X-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy. The NBT and KBT films show higher leakage currents due to the oxygen vacancies in the films. The remanent polarization and coercive field of NBT (KBT) thin film are 9 (5.2) μC/cm2 and 50 (25) kV/cm at an applied electric field of 150 kV/cm. The relative dielectric constants of NBT and KBT are 340 and 316 at 1 MHz, respectively.
EVALUATING WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS IN THE INFORMAL SECTOR: SOME EVIDENCE FROM INDIA
Authors: WILLIAMS COLIN C , GURTOO ANJULA
Published: December 2011

Studies on women entrepreneurs in the informal economy no longer view them merely as a residue from some pre-modern mode of production that is disappearing. Instead, they are either read through a structuralist lens as marginalized populations engaged in low quality work conducted under poor conditions for low pay out of necessity in the absence of alternative means of livelihood, or through a neo-liberal lens as engaged in relatively higher quality endeavours more as a rational choice. The aim of this paper is to evaluate critically these contrasting explanations. To do this, the results of face-to-face interviews with 323 women entrepreneurs operating in the Indian informal economy are analyzed. The finding is that although the structuralist representation is largely appropriate for women engaged in informal waged work, it is not as valid for women informal entrepreneurs working on a self-employed basis where incomes are higher, they receive more credit from informal institutions, union membership is higher, and such work is more likely to be a rational choice. The outcome is a call to recognize the diversity of women's experiences in the informal sector and that not all informal entrepreneurship by women in developing nations is a low-paid, necessity-oriented endeavour carried out as a last resort.
Implication of clusterin in TNF-α response of rheumatoid synovitis: lesson from in vitro knock-down of clusterin in human synovial fibroblast cells
Authors: Falgarone Géraldine , Essabbani Abdellatif , Dumont Florent , Cagnard Nicolas , Mistou Sylvie , Chiocchia Gilles
Published: December 2011

Recently clusterin (CLU) was reported to be an inhibitor of NF-κB pathway and involved in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovitis. This study was designed to decipher the molecular network linked to CLU expression in FLS (fibroblast-like synoviocytes) and evaluate the consequences of its low expression in conditions of TNF-α stimulation. FLS were transfected with siRNA for CLU or not and cultured for 24 and 48 h with TNF-α or not. Pan-genomic gene expression was assayed by DNA microarray. The gene network around CLU and gene interactions were analyzed with the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software. Downregulation of CLU resulted in modification of the expression of genes known to be directly linked to CLU and for almost 5% of the tested genes (857 out of 17,225); the upregulation of a small group of gene (e.g., TIAM1) emphasizes the hypothetical role of CLU in the pseudotumoral characteristic of FLS. The comparison of gene expression with or without TNF stimulation allowed the classification of sampled with good concordance. Moreover, differential comparison showed that CLU downregulation in RA led to a profound modification of the TNF-α response as three sets of genes emerged: 497 genes modulated by siCLU transfection with TNF stimulation, 356 genes modified because of TNF stimulation only, and 484 genes modulated during TNF stimulation with CLU expression (e.g., IL-8 and Wnt signaling genes). Using a global two-way ANOVA we could identify a set of genes defining a molecular signature of TNF response directly influenced by CLU. These results (based on differential gene expression patterns) argue that CLU downregulation in FLS alters their aggressiveness in RA synovitis.
Travoprost Induced Granulomatous Anterior Uveitis
Authors: Chiam Patrick
Published: December 2011

Purpose. To report a case of granulomatous anterior uveitis caused by travoprost.Methods. Single observational case report.Results. A 71-year-old who was fit and healthy presented with bilateral granulomatous anterior uveitis 2 months after he was started on travoprost in both eyes. There was no past history of uveitis. Blood test and radiological investigation were unremarkable. Travoprost was stopped. The uveitis resolved on topical steroid treatment. A rechallenge with travoprost was attempted in one eye. The inflammation recurred in this eye only. This subsided with the cessation of travoprost alone without topical steroid.Conclusion. This is the first case report of travoprost causing granulomatous anterior uveitis. The uveitis recurred with a rechallenge. Changing the prostaglandin analogue to another topical treatment may be adequate to cease the inflammation.
New Approach for Evaluation of a Watershed Ecosystem Service for Avoiding Reservoir Sedimentation and Its Economic Value: A Case Study from Ertan Reservoir in Yalong River, China
Authors: Sude Bilige , Nan Wu , Ji-Xi Gao , Chen Zhang , Jing Ge , Driss Ennaanay
Published: December 2011

A model was established to simulate an ecosystem service of avoiding reservoir sedimentation and its economic value based on the process of sediment delivery in a watershed. The model included fabricating the watershed of the study reservoir. The sediment retention coefficient of different land cover types were used to simulate the spatial patterns of the annual quantity of the sediment that were prevented from entering the reservoir by the vegetation in each cell followed the flow path in watershed. The economic value of the ecosystem service in this model was determined by the marginal cost of reservoir desilting. This study took the Ertan reservoir as an example. The results showed that most eroded soil was intercepted by different types of ecosystems in the process of sediment delivery in a watershed. The region with a higher quantity of sediment retention was around the reservoir. The absolute quantity of average sediment retention in forestland was lower, so the sediment retention ability of forestland failed to be brought into fullest play in watershed.
Simulation of Processes in Dual Three-Phase System on the Base of Four Inverters with Synchronized Modulation
Authors: Oleschuk Valentin , Grandi Gabriele , Sanjeevikumar Padmanaban
Published: December 2011

Novel method of space-vector-based pulse-width modulation (PWM) has been disseminated for synchronous control of four inverters feeding six-phase drive on the base of asymmetrical induction motor which has two sets of windings spatially shifted by 30 electrical degrees. Basic schemes of synchronized PWM, applied for control of four separate voltage-source inverters, allow both continuous phase voltages synchronization in the system and required power sharing between DC sources. Detailed MATLAB-based simulations show a behavior of six-phase system with continuous and discontinuous versions of synchronized PWM.
Bank Lending, Inflation, and China′s Stock Market (2004–2010)
Authors: Burdekin Richard C. K. , Tao Ran
Published: December 2011

The 2009 surge in bank lending in China was accompanied by allegations of substantial funds being funneled into the nation′s stock and property markets. This paper uses 2004–2010 People′s Bank survey data to examine the possible linkages between banking activity and the stock market as well as the associated inflation risks. In general, stock market strength in China seems to be accompanied by rising inflationary concerns, increased bank lending activity, and reduced banker confidence that stable conditions will be maintained. This suggests that the Shanghai market could serve as a useful indicator variable for Chinese monetary policy.
Structure and Morphology Characteristics of Fullerene C60Nanotubes Fabricated withN-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone as a Good Solvent
Authors: Qu Yongtao , Yu Wenwen , Liang Shaocen , Li Shaoxiang , Zhao Jian , Piao Guangzhe
Published: December 2011

Fullerene C60nanotubes (FNTs) were prepared via liquid-liquid interfacial precipitation usingN-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) as solvent and isopropyl alcohol (IPA) as precipitation agent at 8°C. C60-saturated NMP solutions were exposed to visible light to promote the growth of FNTs. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that fibers prepared in the NMP/IPA system show three different morphologies. On the basis of the different morphologies of fullerene C60nanofibers (FNFs), a possible growth mechanism to describe the formation process of FNTs is proposed.
Unscented Kalman Filter Applied to the Spacecraft Attitude Estimation with Euler Angles
Authors: Garcia Roberta Veloso , Kuga Helio Koiti , Zanardi Maria Cecilia F. P. S.
Published: December 2011

The aim of this work is to test an algorithm to estimate, in real time, the attitude of an artificial satellite using real data supplied by attitude sensors that are on board of the CBERS‐2 satellite (China Brazil Earth Resources Satellite). The real‐time estimator used in this work for attitude determination is the Unscented Kalman Filter. This filter is a new alternative to the extended Kalman filter usually applied to the estimation and control problems of attitude and orbit. This algorithm is capable of carrying out estimation of the states of nonlinear systems, without the necessity of linearization of the nonlinear functions present in the model. This estimation is possible due to a transformation that generates a set of vectors that, suffering a nonlinear transformation, preserves the same mean and covariance of the random variables before the transformation. The performance will be evaluated and analyzed through the comparison between the Unscented Kalman filter and the extended Kalman filter results, by using real onboard data.
New Treatments for Rhabdomyosarcoma: The Importance of Target Practice
Authors: Barr Frederic G.
Published: December 2011

To address the poor outcomes in rhabdomyosarcoma, particularly the alveolar subtype, new therapies are needed. Potential cancer-specific alterations that may be molecular targets include gene fusions or copy number changes. Following the latter strategy, an attractive antigene approach was developed to inhibit MYCN oncogene expression in rhabdomyosarcoma. Clin Cancer Res; 18(3); 595–7. ©2011 AACR.
Anti-MET Targeted Therapy Has Come of Age: The First Durable Complete Response with MetMAb in Metastatic Gastric Cancer
Authors: Feng Yan , Ma Patrick C.
Published: December 2011

The MET/hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling pathway plays important roles in oncogenesis and tumor progression in a variety of human cancers. MET/HGF drives an invasive signaling program that can be dysregulated in human cancers through a number of activating mechanisms, including mutations, overexpression, amplification, alternative splicing, and HGF ligand–induced autocrine/paracrine loop signaling. As a testimony of MET-targeting therapeutics is beginning to come to clinical fruition, Catenacci and colleagues report the first case of durable complete response under an anti-MET receptor monoclonal antibody, MetMAb, in a patient with chemotherapy-refractory, advanced gastric cancer metastatic to the liver, found to have high MET gene polysomy and remarkably high serum HGF level. Serum and tissue studies also revealed predictive biomarkers for therapeutic response to MET inhibition. Cancer Discovery; 1(7); 550–4. ©2011 AACR.

Commentary on Catenacci et al., p. 573.
Diffusion-Weighted Imaging for the Differential Diagnosis of Disorders Affecting the Hippocampus
Authors: Förster A. , Griebe M. , Gass A. , Kern R. , Hennerici M.G. , Szabo K.
Published: December 2011

Background: The human hippocampus can be affected in a large variety of very different neurological diseases, of which acute ischemic stroke, transient global amnesia, epilepsy, and limbic encephalitis are the most common. Less frequent etiologies include various infections and encephalopathy of different origins. Clinical presentation notably comprises confusional state, altered vigilance, memory deficits of various extent and seizures. While in hypoxic or hypoglycemic encephalopathy, clinical presentation and surrounding circumstances provide some clues to reach the correct diagnosis, in the above-listed more common disorders, signs and symptoms might overlap, making the differential diagnosis difficult. This review presents recent studies using the diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) technique in diseases involving the hippocampus. Methods: References for the review were identified through searches of PubMed from 1965 to January 2011. Only papers published in English were reviewed. Full articles were obtained and references were checked for additional material where appropriate. Results: All pathologies affecting the hippocampus are associated with distinct lesion patterns on magnetic resonance imaging, and especially DWI has the ability to demonstrate even minute and transient hippocampal lesions. In acute ischemic stroke in the posterior cerebral artery territory, involvement of the hippocampal formation occurs in four distinct patterns on DWI that can be easily differentiated and correspond to the known vascular anatomy of the hippocampus. In the subacute phase after transient global amnesia (TGA), dot-like hyperintense lesions are regularly found in the lateral aspect of the hippocampus on DWI. The DWI lesions described after prolonged seizures or status epilepticus include unilateral or bilateral hippocampal, thalamic, and cortical lesions of various extent, not restricted to vascular territories. In limbic encephalitis, DWI lesions are only infrequently found and usually affect the hippocampus, uncus and amygdala. Furthermore, in some rare cases DWI lesions of different etiology may coexist. Conclusion: In patients with diseases affecting the hippocampus, DWI appears to be useful in differentiating between underlying pathologies and may facilitate a definite diagnosis conducive to an optimal treatment. With a careful clinical examination, experience with the interpretation of DWI findings and knowledge of associated phenomena, it is indeed possible to differentiate between ischemic, ictal, metabolic, and TGA-associated findings.
Leaky Gut in Patients with Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inactive Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Gecse Krisztina , Róka Richárd , Séra Teréz , Rosztóczy András , Annaházi Anita , Izbéki Ferenc , Nagy Ferenc , Molnár Tamás , Szepes Zoltán , Pávics László , Bueno Lionel , Wittmann Tibor
Published: December 2011

Background/Aims: Defective epithelial barrier has been implicated in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate gut permeability in patients with inactive ulcerative colitis (UC) and in patients with IBS. Methods: IBS patients of the diarrhea-predominant (IBS-D) and of the constipation-predominant subgroup (IBS-C), patients with inactive UC and healthy subjects were enrolled. Gut permeability was evaluated by measuring 24-hour urine excretion of orally administered 51Cr-EDTA. Clinical symptoms were evaluated in IBS-D patients and correlated to colonic permeability. Results: There was a significant decrease in the proximal small intestinal permeability in IBS-C patients compared to controls (0.26 ± 0.05 vs. 0.63 ± 0.1%; p < 0.05). Distal small intestinal permeability showed no significant difference in the studied group of patients compared to controls. Colonic permeability of IBS-D and inactive UC patients was significantly increased compared to controls (2.68 ± 0.35 and 3.74 ± 0.49 vs. 1.04 ± 0.18%; p < 0.05, p < 0.001). Colonic permeability of IBS-D patients correlated with stool frequency. Conclusions: Elevated gut permeability is localized to the colon both in IBS-D and in inactive UC patients.
Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke in Octogenarians
Authors: Mono Marie-Luise , Romagna Lorenz , Jung Simon , Arnold Marcel , Galimanis Aekaterini , Fischer Urs , Kohler Adrian , Ballinari Pietro , Brekenfeld Caspar , Gralla Jan , Schroth Gerhard , Mattle Heinrich P. , Nedeltchev Krassen
Published: December 2011

Background: It is unclear whether octogenarians benefit from intra-arterial thrombolysis (IAT) for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The aim of the present study was to compare baseline characteristics, clinical outcome and complications of patients aged ≧80 with those of patients aged <80 years. Methods: Forty-three octogenarians and 524 younger patients with AIS were treated with IAT. The modified Rankin scale (mRS) score was used to assess 3-month outcome. Results: There was a female preponderance among octogenarians (63 vs. 37%, p = 0.015). Stroke severity, occlusion site, and time from stroke onset to IAT did not differ between the groups. Good recanalization (TIMI 2–3) was achieved in 65% of older and in 71% of younger patients (p = 0.449). Rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) were 6% in patients <80 years and 2% in octogenarians (p = 0.292). Favorable outcome (mRS 0–2) was less frequent among octogenarians (28 vs. 46%, p = 0.019), while mortality was higher (40 vs. 22%, p = 0.008). Octogenarians died more often from extracerebral complications than younger patients (59 vs. 27%, p = 0.008). Conclusions: Compared with younger patients, octogenarians did not have a significantly increased risk of symptomatic ICH after IAT. Although favorable outcome was less frequent and mortality rates were higher, IAT appeared to be safe in octogenarians. It seems reasonable to include octogenarians in randomized clinical trials to assess the balance of risk and benefit of IAT in this patient group.
Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 Activity Is Associated with Large-Artery Atherosclerotic Etiology and Recurrent Stroke in TIA Patients
Authors: Delgado Pilar , Chacón Pilar , Penalba Anna , Pelegri Dolors , García-Berrocoso Teresa , Giralt Dolors , Santamarina Estevo , Ribó Marc , Maisterra Olga , Alvarez-Sabín José , Rosell Anna , Montaner Joan
Published: December 2011

Background: Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) has emerged as a novel biomarker in cardiovascular diseases due to its ability to predict stroke in population-based studies. We aimed to investigate Lp-PLA2 levels in transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients and to study their relationship with stroke recurrence. Methods: Lp-PLA2 mass and activity were measured by means of the PLAC test with an automated Olympus analyzer and by a colorimetric activity method (diaDexus) in 166 TIA patients and 144 healthy controls. Vascular risk factors and stroke etiology were assessed. Outcome was defined as the presence of recurrent stroke/TIA within 7 and 30 days after the index TIA. Multivariate analyses were performed to identify potential predictors of recurrence. Results: Both Lp-PLA2 mass and activity (p < 0.05) were higher in TIA than in controls. Several risk factors or previous treatments were associated with Lp-PLA2 mass and activity level. During follow-up, 20 strokes/TIA (12%) occurred within the first 30 days and the presence of a large-artery atherosclerosis etiology of stroke (HR 3.28, p = 0.011), together with the past medical history of hyperlipidemia (HR 3.68, p = 0.008) and Lp-PLA2 activity of >207 nmol/ml/min (HR 2.7, p = 0.042) were all significant predictors for recurrent stroke/TIA. Conclusions: Lp-PLA2 activity might add significant prognostic information in the early evaluation of TIA patients.
MOSAIC for Multiple-Reward Environments
Authors: Sugimoto Norikazu , Haruno Masahiko , Doya Kenji , Kawato Mitsuo
Published: December 2011

Reinforcement learning (RL) can provide a basic framework for autonomous robots to learn to control and maximize future cumulative rewards in complex environments. To achieve high performance, RL controllers must consider the complex external dynamics for movements and task (reward function) and optimize control commands. For example, a robot playing tennis and squash needs to cope with the different dynamics of a tennis or squash racket and such dynamic environmental factors as the wind. In addition, this robot has to tailor its tactics simultaneously under the rules of either game. This double complexity of the external dynamics and reward function sometimes becomes more complex when both the multiple dynamics and multiple reward functions switch implicitly, as in the situation of a real (multi-agent) game of tennis where one player cannot observe the intention of her opponents or her partner. The robot must consider its opponent's and its partner's unobservable behavioral goals (reward function). In this article, we address how an RL agent should be designed to handle such double complexity of dynamics and reward. We have previously proposed modular selection and identification for control (MOSAIC) to cope with nonstationary dynamics where appropriate controllers are selected and learned among many candidates based on the error of its paired dynamics predictor: the forward model. Here we extend this framework for RL and propose MOSAIC-MR architecture. It resembles MOSAIC in spirit and selects and learns an appropriate RL controller based on the RL controller's TD error using the errors of the dynamics (the forward model) and the reward predictors. Furthermore, unlike other MOSAIC variants for RL, RL controllers are not a priori paired with the fixed predictors of dynamics and rewards. The simulation results demonstrate that MOSAIC-MR outperforms other counterparts because of this flexible association ability among RL controllers, forward models, and reward predictors.
Theoretical and Evolutionary Parameter Tuning of Neural Oscillators with a Double-Chain Structure for Generating Rhythmic Signals
Authors: Hattori Yuya , Suzuki Michiyo , Soh Zu , Kobayashi Yasuhiko , Tsuji Toshio
Published: December 2011

A neural oscillator with a double-chain structure is one of the central pattern generator models used to simulate and understand rhythmic movements in living organisms. However, it is difficult to reproduce desired rhythmic signals by tuning an enormous number of parameters of neural oscillators. In this study, we propose an automatic tuning method consisting of two parts. The first involves tuning rules for both the time constants and the amplitude of the oscillatory outputs based on theoretical analyses of the relationship between parameters and outputs of the neural oscillators. The second involves an evolutionary tuning method with a two-step genetic algorithm (GA), consisting of a global GA and a local GA, for tuning parameters such as neural connection weights that have no exact tuning rule. Using numerical experiments, we confirmed that the proposed tuning method could successfully tune all parameters and generate sinusoidal waves. The tuning performance of the proposed method was less affected by factors such as the number of excitatory oscillators or the desired outputs. Furthermore, the proposed method was applied to the parameter-tuning problem of some types of artificial and biological wave reproduction and yielded optimal parameter values that generated complex rhythmic signals in Caenorhabditis elegans without trial and error.