bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Androgen Exposure Leads to Alterations in Gene and Protein Expression in the Ovine Fetal Ovary
Authors: Hogg Kirsten , McNeilly Alan S. , Duncan W. Colin
Published: February 2011

Exposure of a female fetus to increased androgens in utero results in an adult phenotype reminiscent of polycystic ovary syndrome. We investigated whether prenatal androgens could directly alter the structure and function of the fetal ovary. We examined fetal ovarian cell proliferation, germ cell volume, and the expression of steroid receptors and steroidogenic enzymes. In addition, we studied the inhibitors of differentiation (Ids) and the SLIT/Roundabout developmental pathways. Female fetuses were collected from ewes treated with 100 mg testosterone propionate (TP) or vehicle control (C), twice weekly from d 60 to 70 (C = 3, TP = 6) or d 90 (C = 6, TP = 8). Female fetuses were also collected at d 70 after a single injection of TP (20 mg) or vehicle C into the fetal flank at d 60 (C = 4, TP = 8). Prenatal androgenization had no effect on fetal ovarian morphology, cell proliferation, or germ cell volume. However, there was a reduction in the expression of StAR, CYP11A, CYP17, and LHR at d 90 of gestation. There was also an increase in Id1 immunostaining at d 90 and an increase in Id3 immunostaining at d 70. Direct injection of TP into the fetus down-regulated ovarian CYP11A, estrogen receptor α and β mRNA, and ROBO1 and up-regulated CYP19, androgen receptor immunostaining, and Id3 mRNA and protein. Although at d 90 prenatal androgenization does not result in structural changes of the fetal ovary, there are functional changes that may impact on ovarian development. TP has direct actions on the fetal ovary, and these may contribute to the adult ovarian phenotype in the ovine model of polycystic ovary syndrome.
Essential Role for Protein Kinase Cζ in Oleic Acid-Induced Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Secretion in Vivo in the Rat
Authors: Iakoubov Roman , Ahmed Ausma , Lauffer Lina M. , Bazinet Richard P. , Brubaker Patricia L.
Published: February 2011

Luminal monounsaturated long-chain fatty acids [e.g. oleic acid (OA)] increase secretion of the incretin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) from the ileocolonic L cell. However, it is not known whether OA ingestion causes a sufficient increase in distal luminal concentrations to directly enhance GLP-1 secretion. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that protein kinase Cζ (PKCζ) is required for OA-induced GLP-1 secretion in vitro; however, the physiological relevance of this finding remains unknown. Therefore, we have determined luminal OA concentrations in OA-fed rats and examined the effects of direct OA stimulation on GLP-1 secretion using a novel model of intestinal-specific PKCζ knockdown. Murine GLUTag L cells express numerous fatty acid transport proteins and take up OA in a saturable manner. Oral administration of OA increased the ileal chyme content of OA by 140-fold over 60–120 min (P < 0.05–0.01), peaking at 105 ± 50 μmol/g. To evaluate the direct effects of OA on GLP-1 secretion, 125 mm OA was rectally infused into the colon and terminal ileum of rats. Plasma bioactive GLP-1 increased from 20 ± 6 to 102 ± 21 pg/ml at 60 min (P < 0.01). However, pretreatment with ileocolonic adenoviral PKCζ small interfering RNA resulted in a 68 ± 8% reduction in the GLP-1 response to rectal OA (P < 0.001). The results of these studies indicate that OA levels in the rat terminal gut after oral ingestion are sufficient to induce GLP-1 secretion and that PKCζ is necessary for the effects of OA on GLP-1 secretion in vivo. PKCζ may therefore serve as a novel therapeutic target to enhance GLP-1 levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Deletion of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β in Cartilage Results in Up-Regulation of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3α Protein Expression
Authors: Gillespie J. R. , Ulici V. , Dupuis H. , Higgs A. , DiMattia A. , Patel S. , Woodgett J. R. , Beier F.
Published: February 2011

The rate of endochondral bone growth determines final height in humans and is tightly controlled. Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) is a negative regulator of several signaling pathways that govern bone growth, such as insulin/IGF and Wnt/β-catenin. The two GSK-3 proteins, GSK-3α and GSK-3β, display both overlapping and distinct roles in different tissues. Here we show that pharmacological inhibition of GSK-3 signaling in a mouse tibia organ culture system results in enhanced bone growth, accompanied by increased proliferation of growth plate chondrocytes and faster turnover of hypertrophic cartilage to bone. GSK-3 inhibition rescues some, but not all, effects of phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase inhibition in this system, in agreement with the antagonistic role of these two kinases in response to signals such as IGF. However, cartilage-specific deletion of the Gsk3b gene in mice has minimal effects on skeletal growth or development. Molecular analyses demonstrated that compensatory up-regulation of GSK-3α protein levels in cartilage is the likely cause for this lack of effect. To our knowledge, this is the first tissue in which such a compensatory mechanism is described. Thus, our study provides important new insights into both skeletal development and the biology of GSK-3 proteins.
Estradiol Down-Regulates RF-Amide-Related Peptide (RFRP) Expression in the Mouse Hypothalamus
Authors: Molnár C. S. , Kalló I. , Liposits Z. , Hrabovszky E.
Published: February 2011

In most mammals, RF-amide-related peptides are synthesized in the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus and regulate reproduction via inhibiting GnRH neurons and, possibly, adenohypophyseal gonadotrophs. In the present study, we investigated the possibility that RFRP-synthesizing neurons are involved in estrogen feedback signaling to the reproductive axis in mice. First, we used quantitative in situ hybridization and compared the expression of prepro-RFRP mRNA of ovariectomized mice, with and without 17β-estradiol (E2) replacement. Subcutaneous administration of E2 via silastic capsules for 4 d significantly down-regulated prepro-RFRP mRNA expression. The underlying receptor mechanism was investigated with immunohistochemistry. In ovariectomized mice, low levels of nuclear estrogen receptor (ER)-α immunoreactivity were detectable in 18.7 ± 3.8% of RFRP neurons. The majority of RFRP neurons showed no ER-α signal, and RFRP neurons did not exhibit ER-β immunoreactivity. Results of these studies indicate that RFRP is a negatively estradiol-regulated neurotransmitter/neuromodulator in mice. The estrogenic down-regulation of RFRP expression may contribute to estrogen feedback to the reproductive axis. The issue of whether E2 regulates RFRP neurons directly or indirectly remains open given that ER-α immunoreactivity is present only at low levels in a subset of these cells.
Remodeling and homeostasis of the extracellular matrix: implications for fibrotic diseases and cancer
Authors: Cox Thomas R. , Erler Janine T.
Published: February 2011

Dynamic remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is essential for development, wound healing and normal organ homeostasis. Life-threatening pathological conditions arise when ECM remodeling becomes excessive or uncontrolled. In this Perspective, we focus on how ECM remodeling contributes to fibrotic diseases and cancer, which both present challenging obstacles with respect to clinical treatment, to illustrate the importance and complexity of cell-ECM interactions in the pathogenesis of these conditions. Fibrotic diseases, which include pulmonary fibrosis, systemic sclerosis, liver cirrhosis and cardiovascular disease, account for over 45% of deaths in the developed world. ECM remodeling is also crucial for tumor malignancy and metastatic progression, which ultimately cause over 90% of deaths from cancer. Here, we discuss current methodologies and models for understanding and quantifying the impact of environmental cues provided by the ECM on disease progression, and how improving our understanding of ECM remodeling in these pathological conditions is crucial for uncovering novel therapeutic targets and treatment strategies. This can only be achieved through the use of appropriate in vitro and in vivo models to mimic disease, and with technologies that enable accurate monitoring, imaging and quantification of the ECM.
Trichoplein controls microtubule anchoring at the centrosome by binding to Odf2 and ninein
Authors: Ibi Miho , Zou Peng , Inoko Akihito , Shiromizu Takashi , Matsuyama Makoto , Hayashi Yuko , Enomoto Masato , Mori Daisuke , Hirotsune Shinji , Kiyono Tohru , Tsukita Sachiko , Goto Hidemasa , Inagaki Masaki
Published: February 2011

The keratin cytoskeleton performs several functions in epithelial cells and provides regulated interaction sites for scaffold proteins, including trichoplein. Previously, we found that trichoplein was localized on keratin intermediate filaments and desmosomes in well-differentiated, non-dividing epithelia. Here, we report that trichoplein is widely expressed and has a major function in the correct localization of the centrosomal protein ninein in epithelial and non-epithelial cells. Immunocytochemical analysis also revealed that this protein is concentrated at the subdistal to medial zone of both mother and daughter centrioles. Trichoplein binds the centrosomal proteins Odf2 and ninein, which are localized at the distal to subdistal ends of the mother centriole. Trichoplein depletion abolished the recruitment of ninein, but not Odf2, specifically at the subdistal end. However, Odf2 depletion inhibited the recruitment of trichoplein to a mother centriole, whereas ninein depletion did not. In addition, the depletion of each molecule impaired MT anchoring at the centrosome. These results suggest that trichoplein has a crucial role in MT-anchoring activity at the centrosome in proliferating cells, probably through its complex formation with Odf2 and ninein.
Drosophila male germline stem cells do not asymmetrically segregate chromosome strands
Authors: Yadlapalli Swathi , Cheng Jun , Yamashita Yukiko M.
Published: February 2011

Adult stem cells continuously supply differentiated cells throughout the life of organisms. This increases the risk of replicative senescence or neoplastic transformation due to mutations that accumulate over many rounds of DNA replication. The immortal strand hypothesis proposes that stem cells reduce the accumulation of replication-induced mutations by retaining the older template DNA strands. Other models have also been proposed in which stem cells asymmetrically segregate chromosome strands for other reasons, such as retention of epigenetic memories. Recently, the idea has emerged that the mother centrosome, which is stereotypically retained within some asymmetrically dividing stem cells, might be utilized as a means of asymmetrically segregating chromosome strands. We have tested this hypothesis in germline stem cells (GSCs) from Drosophila melanogaster testis, which undergo asymmetric divisions marked by the asymmetric segregation of centrosomes and the acquisition of distinct daughter cell fates (stem cell self-renewal versus differentiation). Using 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine labeling combined with direct visualization of GSC-gonialblast (differentiating daughter) pairs, we directly scored the outcome of chromosome strand segregation. Our data show that, in male GSCs in the Drosophila testis, chromosome strands are not asymmetrically segregated, despite asymmetrically segregating centrosomes. Our data demonstrate that asymmetric centrosome segregation in stem cells does not necessarily lead to asymmetric chromosome strand segregation.
Quadriceps myopathy caused by skeletal muscle-specific ablation of βcyto-actin
Authors: Prins Kurt W. , Call Jarrod A. , Lowe Dawn A. , Ervasti James M.
Published: February 2011

Quadriceps myopathy (QM) is a rare form of muscle disease characterized by pathological changes predominately localized to the quadriceps. Although numerous inheritance patterns have been implicated in QM, several QM patients harbor deletions in dystrophin. Two defined deletions predicted loss of functional spectrin-like repeats 17 and 18. Spectrin-like repeat 17 participates in actin-filament binding, and thus we hypothesized that disruption of a dystrophin–cytoplasmic actin interaction might be one of the mechanisms underlying QM. To test this hypothesis, we generated mice deficient for βcyto-actin in skeletal muscles (Actb-msKO). Actb-msKO mice presented with a progressive increase in the proportion of centrally nucleated fibers in the quadriceps, an approximately 50% decrease in dystrophin protein expression without alteration in transcript levels, deficits in repeated maximal treadmill tests, and heightened sensitivity to eccentric contractions. Collectively, these results suggest that perturbing a dystrophin–βcyto-actin linkage decreases dystrophin stability, which results in a QM, and implicates βcyto-actin as a possible candidate gene in QM pathology.
Selection of Treatment for Patients with Carotid Artery Disease: Medication, Carotid Endarterectomy, or Carotid Artery Stenting
Authors: Bosiers Marc , Peeters Patrick , Deloose Koen , Verbist Jürgen , Sprouse L. Richard
Published: February 2011

Patients presenting with atherosclerosis of the extracranial carotid arteries may be offered carotid endarterectomy (CEA), carotid artery stenting (CAS), or medical therapy to reduce their risk of stroke. In many cases, the choice between treatment modalities remains controversial.

An algorithm based on patients' neurologic symptoms, comorbidities, limiting factors for CAS and CEA, and personal preferences was developed to determine the optimal treatment in each case. This algorithm was then employed to determine therapy in 308 consecutive patients presenting to a single institution during one calendar year.

Ninety-five (30.8%) patients presented with an asymptomatic carotid stenosis of more than 80% and 213 (69.2%) with a symptomatic stenosis of more than 50%. According to our algorithm, 59 (62.1%) of the 95 asymptomatic patients received CAS, 20 (21.1%) received CEA, and 16 (16.8%) received medical therapy. All symptomatic patients underwent intervention; 153 (71.8%) were treated with CAS and 60 (28.2%) with CEA. Combined 30-day stroke and death rates after CAS were 1.7% in asymptomatic patients and 2.6% in symptomatic patients. After CEA, these rates were 0% and 3.3%, respectively.

Careful selection of treatment modality according to predetermined criteria can result in improved outcomes.
Experimental Force Measurements on a Bifurcated Endoluminal Stent Graft Model: Comparison with Theory
Authors: Šutalo Ilija D. , Liffman Kurt , Lawrence-Brown Michael M.D. , Semmens James B.
Published: February 2011

The goal of this study was to experimentally validate a steady-state mathematical model, which can be used to compute the forces acting on a bifurcated endoluminal stent graft.

To accomplish this task, an acrylic model of a bifurcated graft was used for the force measurements. The graft model was connected to the inlet piping with a flexible rubber membrane that allowed the graft model to move. This allowed us to measure the force owing to the movement of the graft model with a calibrated load cell. Steady-state blood flow was assumed, and the working fluid was water.

The experimental data were found to be consistent with the results from a previously published mathematical model: the graft force is strongly dependent on the proximal or inlet pressure and the inlet area. The force tends to be weakly dependent on flow rate.

More research work will be required to determine whether the steady-state force model examined in this article provides a realistic determination of the forces on an endoluminal stent graft that is subject to pulsatile blood flow.
Clinical Outcome and Technical Considerations of Late Removal of Abdominal Aortic Endografts: 8-Year Single-Center Experience
Authors: de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , van Herwaarden Joost A. , Overtoom Tim Th. , Vos Jan Albert , Moll Frans L. , van de Pavoordt Eric D. W. M.
Published: February 2011

During an 8-year period, 355 patients underwent endovascular repair of mainly true (97%) infrarenal aneurysms. After a mean follow-up of 48 months, 11 (3.1%) patients required conversion to open repair and 10 were eligible for open surgical intervention. Via a midline incision, explantation of the endograft was performed by using an infrarenal aortotomy. Explantation was done for rupture in four patients (40%), with a marked difference in mortality rates between acute (50%) and elective (0%) explantations.

The main reason for explantation was proximal type I endoleak caused by (1) malposition of the device, (2) proximal migration of the endograft, and (3) dislodgment of a tube endograft that followed former central reconstruction. Proximal migration is most worrisome and demands preventive endovascular reintervention.

The mortality and morbidity rates of elective explantation are acceptable. When delayed conversion is indicated, priority has to be given to operate on these patients.
Carotid Artery Imaging in the United Kingdom: A Postal Questionnaire of Current Practice
Authors: Osarumwense Donald , Pararajasingam Ravi , Wilson Paul , Abraham John , Walker Stuart R.
Published: February 2011

There has been a steady rise in the use of carotid duplex imaging in the selection of patients for carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Some would suggest that CEA could be safely performed without preoperative contrast angiography. The purpose of this study was to focus on the role of duplex imaging among vascular surgeons in the United Kingdom and to highlight current practices in imaging prior to CEA. A postal questionnaire was sent to all consultant members of the Vascular Surgical Society of Great Britain and Ireland about the choice of imaging prior to selection of patients for CEA, preoperative imaging, and choice of imaging (if any) in the confirmation of carotid occlusion indicated by duplex scanning. Of 396 questionnaires sent, 323 (82%) were returned. Of these, 259 (80%) consultants performed carotid surgery, 118 (45%) in university hospitals (UHs) and 141 (53%) in district general hospitals (DGHs). One hundred eighteen (100%) and 137 (97%) respondents, respectively, chose duplex scanning as their first-line investigation. Sixty (51%) respondents in UHs and 49 (35%) respondents in DGHs repeated duplex scanning immediately preoperatively, with 57 (95%) and 46 (94%), respectively, using duplex scanning. Forty-seven (40%) respondents in UHs and 78 (55%) respondents in DGHs would reconfirm an occlusion, with 30 (64%) and 48 (62%), respectively, using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging as their preferred tool. Our study shows that duplex scanning is the first-line imaging technique for patient selection for CEA by vascular surgeons in the United Kingdom. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography are replacing conventional angiography where duplex scanning is equivocal.
Fulminant Development of Mega-aorta Due to Takayasu's Arteritis: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Robinson William P. , Detterbeck Frank C. , Hendren Ryan L. , Keagy Blair A.
Published: February 2011

Takayasu's arteritis is a rare inflammatory arteriopathy characterized by segmental involvement of the aorta, its major branches, and, occasionally, the pulmonary arteries. Arterial inflammation generally results in occlusion, but Takayasu's arteritis occasionally presents as aneurysm formation. Takayasu's arteritis generally afflicts young women and is most often characterized by an acute episode of systemic illness and neurologic symptoms secondary to stenoses of the carotid and vertebral circulation. We report an unusual case of Takayasu's arteritis in a 43-year-old man who presented with severe back pain and provide a brief review of the literature.
Carotid Artery Stenting: Which Stent for Which Lesion?
Authors: Bosiers Marc , Deloose Koen , Verbist Jürgen , Peeters Patrick
Published: February 2011

The different geometries and working principles of carotid stents (nitinol or cobalt chromium, open- or closed-cell configuration) provide each product with unique functional properties. The individual characteristics of each device may make it an attractive choice in one circumstance but render it less desirable in other situations.

In approximately 75% of all procedures, all types of stents will achieve similar outcomes, making adequate device selection unnecessary. For the remaining quarter, careful preoperative screening is mandatory.

In addition to eventual access issues, the choice of the optimal carotid stent depends mainly on arterial anatomy and lesion morphology. When treating a tortuous anatomy, stents with a flexible and comformable open-cell configuration are preferred. In arteries with a significant mismatch between common carotid artery and internal carotid artery diameter, cobalt chromium (Elgiloy) or tapered nitinol stents are selected. Lesions with suspected high emboligenicity are best covered with stents with a closed-cell configuration, whereas highly calcified lesions need treatment with nitinol stents.

Thorough knowledge of the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, and working principles of the different available stents is mandatory to optimally select the materials to be used for patients eligible for carotid revascularization.
In Vivo Comparison of the Inflammatory Response Induced by Different Vascular Biomaterials
Authors: Busuttil Steven J. , Drumm Carla , Plow Edward F.
Published: February 2011

Biomaterial implants induce a local inflammatory response. A comparison of the inflammatory cell response was made between several biomaterials commonly used as vascular prostheses.

Disks of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), aluminum, titanium, copper, and stainless steel were surgically placed into the peritoneum of mice. Recruited macrophage and neutrophil populations were measured after recovery from the disk surface and peritoneal lavage.

Following peritoneal biomaterial implants, there was no difference in total neutrophil or macrophage recruitment between mice implanted with PET, PTFE, aluminum, or titanium disks. However, there was significant attenuation of total neutrophil and macrophage recruitment to stainless steel compared with the other implants. Similarly, there was no significant difference in the percentage of leukocytes adherent to the PET, aluminum, or titanium disks. Macrophage adherence to the stainless steel disks was attenuated by 19.1%, and the number of neutrophils was attenuated by 69.1% when compared with PET implant mice. Mice implanted with copper disks universally expired.

Leukocyte recruitment did not differ between PET, PTFE, aluminum, or titanium disks, suggesting that these materials stimulate similar inflammatory responses. Stainless steel disks recruited both fewer neutrophils and fewer macrophages and support lower adherence of these cells than the other biomaterials. Copper incited an overwhelming and fatal response.
Nonoperative Management of Lower Extremity Claudication Caused by a Baker's Cyst: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Zhang Wayne W. , Lukan James K. , Dryjski Maciej L.
Published: February 2011

A Baker's or popliteal cyst is a synovial cyst in the popliteal fossa arising from the knee joint. The majority of patients develop a popliteal mass that is asymptomatic, but in a small percentage of patients, complications and symptoms occur; these may not only encompass the popliteal veins and arteries but may also include cyst leakage, infection, hemorrhage, and compartment syndrome. Severe lower limb ischemia caused by a Baker's cyst is extremely rare, having been reported only six times since 1960; all patients were treated with surgical intervention.

We report the case of a 29-year-old male presenting with right calf claudication caused by a Baker's cyst. The patient was managed nonoperatively with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, proper exercises, and close observation. His claudication improved progressively and had completely disappeared at 12 months of follow-up. A repeat duplex arterial study showed that increased blood flow to the right foot and the right ankle/brachial index improved to 0.97 from 0.67. Repeat ultrasonography demonstrated that the size of the cyst decreased from 4.5 × 1.5 cm to 2.8 × 0.9 cm. The patient had been followed for 20 months and remained asymptomatic in the last 8 months. We will continue to follow the patient to evaluate the long-term outcome.

In summary, our own data and literature review suggest that the limb ischemia caused by Baker's cyst may be a transient condition and can be managed nonoperatively in selected patients.
Aortic Arch Aneurysm and Patent Left Internal Mammary Artery: Technique of Transposition of Supra-aortic Vessels and Embolization of the Subclavian Artery
Authors: Mangialardi Nicola , Costa Pierluigi , Serrao Eugenia , Cavazzini Carlo , Bergeron Patrice
Published: February 2011

Endovascular treatment of aortic arch aneurysms poses unique problems because of vascularization of the carotid arteries.

Transposition of supra-aortic vessels is becoming an established and accepted strategy for expanding the applicability of stent graft repair. left subclavian artery (LSA) is not usually transposed because its overstenting does not produce relevant complications. Nevertheless, some selected cases need high-pressure revascularization of the LSA, such as in the presence of a patent left internal mammary artery. We present a technique of revascularization of supra-aortic vessels and “balloon protected” embolization of the origin of the LSA.
Does Conversion of Intended Remote Iliac Artery Endarterectomy Alter the Early and Long-Term Outcome?
Authors: Smeets Luuk , van der Horn Garmt , Gisbertz Suzanne S. , Ho Gwan , Moll Frans
Published: February 2011

The purpose of this study was to compare the perioperative and long-term results of initial successful remote iliac artery endarterectomies (RIAEs) with converted procedures.

From April 1994 to September 2003, 63 remote endarterectomies of the external and/or common iliac artery were planned in 62 patients (41 males, 42 procedures). The median age was 65 years (range 39–83 years), and the indication for operation was severe claudication in 37 (59%), rest pain in 16 (25%), and gangrene in 10 (16%) procedures.

Initial technical success was achieved in 56 (89%) procedures (group 1); seven conversions (group 2) were necessary. In group 1, the 5-year primary patency rate improved from 64 ± 15% to a primary assisted patency of 88 ± 9.3% after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty in 11 patients, with 7 requiring stent placement. The 5-year secondary patency rate was 94 ± 7.4%. The primary and secondary patency rates in group 2 were 86 ± 19% and 100%, respectively.

RIAE can be offered to patients with long occlusions of the iliac arteries as a first treatment option. The inherent risk of a possible conversion of an intended RIAE to a more invasive surgical procedure has no significant adverse clinical effect on the early and 5-year clinical outcomes.
The use of transvaginal ultrasound evaluation premicrowave endometrial ablation
Authors: Shuen W M Vivien , Vardhanabhuti Varut V , Pearson Sally A
Published: February 2011

Microwave endometrial ablation (MEA) is a popular minimally invasive treatment for menorrhagia compared with hysterectomy. Guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) state that a transvaginal ultrasound scan should be done preoperatively on all prospective MEA patients to avoid complications by assessing the uterus and adjacent structures for abnormalities. The purpose of the study is to correlate the findings of pre-MEA ultrasound scans and outcomes of these patients. A two-year retrospective computed radiology information system (CRIS) search containing ‘Pre MEA’ was identified from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2008. All scans were reviewed and classified as: (A) normal, (B) relative contraindication to MEA or (C) absolute contraindication to MEA. A total of 52 reports were found in this two-year period. Of these, 22 were normal, 24 were in category B and six in category C. Within category B, 20 had undergone previous lower segment Caesarean sections. One had a thin fundus and three had non-distorting fibroids. The six cases in category C had either distorting fibroids or polyps. The proportion of those who proceeded to MEA was 72% (16/22) within category A, 54% (13/24) in category B and 0% (0/6) in category C. No reported complications in all patients who underwent the procedure. In conclusion, transvaginal ultrasound examination is vital in assessing the uterus and adjacent pathology prior to MEA. The results demonstrate compliance to current NICE guidelines. Ultrasound has the ability to aid gynaecologists in selecting suitable patients for MEA, eliminate potential complications and reduce the rate of unsuccessful procedures.
Ultrasound evaluation of carotid body tumours
Authors: Samuel Nehemiah , Smith George , Wolstenhulme Stephen , Chetter Ian
Published: February 2011

Carotid body tumour (CBT) is a rare neoplasm that usually presents as an asymptomatic slow-growing neck mass at the carotid bifurcation. Due to these benign attributes, CBTs often go undiagnosed for a few years before a lateral neck mass becomes clinically obvious or is found incidentally on imaging. Herein we report one such patient with unilateral CBT incidentally diagnosed on ultrasound and we describe its characteristic sonographic features of a hypervascular mass splaying the carotid bifurcation. Duplex sonography is increasingly used as the first-line non-invasive investigative tool of choice for the primary diagnosis of CBTs and additionally may be used as a reliable cost-effective tool in the sequential follow-up of non-operatively managed tumours.
Turbine Size and Temperature Dependence of Icing on Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Homola Matthew C. , Wallenius Tomas , Makkonen Lasse , Nicklasson Per J. , Sundsbø Per A.
Published: February 2011

The dependence of atmospheric icing on temperature and wind turbine size was studied by performing numerical simulations of ice accumulation on five different wind turbine blade profiles at four different temperatures. The profiles were for 450 kW, 600 kW, 1 MW, 2 MW and 5 MW wind turbines, and the temperatures −10°C, −7.5°C, −5°C and −2.5°C. The simulations indicate that generally atmospheric icing is less severe for larger wind turbines in terms of how much the aerodynamics are disturbed, but the opposite can be true under certain specific conditions. It is indicated that the air temperature range at which the transition between glaze and rime ice occurs is lower for the larger wind turbines.
Japan's Onshore and Offshore Wind Energy Potential as Well as Long-Term Installation Goal and its Roadmap by the Year 2050
Authors: Ushiyama Izumi , Nagai Hiroshi , Saito Tetsuo , Watanabe Fumihito
Published: February 2011

Net usable onshore wind energy in Japan is known as 6,400 MW, estimated in March 2000. However, there is the need to revise this including offshore based on the latest analytical method, recent development of wind turbine technology, and the latest national land map. This study re-estimated the Japan's onshore and offshore gross wind energy resources as well as the net available wind energy in consideration of social and economic constraints. Based on the estimation, the study then assessed a long-term installation goal and an installation roadmap. Consequently, the potential estimation found 6,434,830 MW for the wind energy resources and 782,220 MW for the available wind energy in onshore and offshore of Japan at annual mean wind speed of 6.5 m/s for onshore and 7.5 m/s for offshore at 80 m height. Furthermore, the roadmap and annual installation capacity was estimated to achieve the long-term installation goal, “the amount of electricity produced by wind turbines exceeds 10% of the Japan's national electricity demand by the year 2050”. As a result, the cumulative targets of wind turbines installation were found as following: 3,000 MW in 2010; 11,310 MW in 2020; 27,000 MW in 2030; 44,300 MW in 2040; and 50,000 MW in 2050. The annual production capacity including replacement of turbines after the year 2030 continues to exceed 2,500 MW every year, therefore the sustainable development of the wind power generation industry is expected.
Structural Control with Multi-Subnet Wireless Sensing Feedback: Experimental Validation of Time-Delayed Decentralized H* Control Design
Authors: Wang Yang , Law Kincho H.
Published: February 2011

This study investigates the feasibility of deploying wireless communication and embedded computing for structural control applications. A feedback structural control system involves a network of sensors and control devices. As control devices are becoming smaller, more cost effective and reliable, opportunities are now available to instrument a structure with large number of control devices. However, instrumenting a large scale centralized control system with cables can be time consuming, labor intensive, and difficult to maintain and reconfigure. This study explores decentralized feedback control using wireless sensors incorporated with a computational core and a signal generation module. Decentralized control architectures are designed to make control decisions based on data acquired from sensors located in the vicinity of a control device.

Specifically, this paper describes the experimental validation of a time-delayed decentralized structural control strategy that aims to minimize the H* norm of a closed-loop control system. The decentralized controller design employs a homotopy method that gradually transforms a centralized controller into multiple decentralized controllers. Linear matrix inequality constraints are included in the homotopic transformation to ensure optimal control performance. The paper also describes our first implementation of a real-time wireless sensing and control system that achieves simultaneous communication within multiple wireless subnets. Different decentralized H* control architectures are implemented with a network of wireless sensing and control units instrumented on a six-story scaled steel frame structure controlled by magnetorheological dampers. Shake table experiments are conducted to demonstrate the performance of the wireless decentralized control architectures.
An Antenna Sensor for Crack Detection and Monitoring
Authors: Mohammad Irshad , Huang Haiying
Published: February 2011

A major goal of structural health monitoring (SHM) is crack detection and monitoring. Because cracks are localized defects, quantifying the sizes and locations of the cracks would require placing many sensors over a large area. We present a crack sensor that is suitable for densely distributed sensor network because they can be remotely interrogated and do not need any wiring for data transmission or power supply. A rectangular patch antenna, consisting of a metallic patch on one side of a dielectric substrate and a ground plane on the other side of the substrate, is studied in this paper for crack detection and monitoring. The presence of a crack in the ground plane of the antenna changes its conductivity, which in turn reduces the resonant frequency of the antenna sensor. Experimental results demonstrated that the antenna sensor can monitor crack growth with sub-millimeter spatial resolution. Detailed experimental set-up and measurement results are presented.
Reducing Epistemic Uncertainty Using a Model Updating Cognitive System
Authors: Caicedo Juan M. , Zárate Boris A.
Published: February 2011

Developing numerical models of existing structural systems is challenging because of the uncertainty inherent on the development of the numerical model and the estimation of the structural parameters. This uncertainty is a combination of lack of knowledge (epistemic uncertainty) and inherent randomness on the system. This paper introduces a Model Updating Cognitive Systems (MUCogS) as a new paradigm for model updating of structural systems with incomplete data. MUCogS seeks to merge the computational power of computers with the analytical power of the analyst. In most cases, the posterior probability density function (PDF) within a Bayesian framework has one region of high probability. However, several regions of high probability can be obtained on the likelihood when data is incomplete. These areas can be considered by the analyst to enhance his/her knowledge about the structure. This paper discusses a methodology used to identify these regions of high probability without the need of calculating the complete likelihood using Modeling to Generate Alternatives (MGA).
Real-Time Hybrid Test Validation of a MR Damper Controlled Building with Shake Table Tests
Authors: Lin Yi Zhong , Christenson Richard
Published: February 2011

Real-time hybrid testing (RTHTing) is a relatively new form of experimental testing where only the critical components of the system are physically tested while the rest of the structure is simulated. A RTHT can provide a cost-effective means for testing semiactive controlled civil structures. This paper describes the experimental validation of the RTHT facility at the University of Connecticut through comparison of RTHT results with corresponding shake table responses of a Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid damper controlled test structure. The two-story structure has an MR damper connected between the ground and first story and is excited by ground accelerations. For the shake table tests the fully physical building model and MR damper are tested on a medium-scale shake table. In the RTHT the MR damper alone will be tested physically while the rest of the test structure and ground excitation is simulated in the RTHT control computer. The performance of the RTHT is validated by comparing the building responses and measured damper force with those from the shake table test in both the time and frequency domains.
The Utilisation of Private Sector Governance Paradigms for the Development and Implementation of Innovations in the Public Sector
Authors: Smith MA , Starkey AP
Published: February 2011

This paper considers key factors which have an impact on the development and implementation of innovations in the public sector and explores how beneficial elements of private sector governance can be utilised and incorporated into approaches to support innovation in the public sector. It discusses a number of concepts which could be important for innovation in the public sector; these include overt and covert innovation, primary and secondary innovation and organisational equilibrium. The relationship between risk and trust is considered and the importance of accountability is addressed. The utilisation of special purpose vehicles is discussed, highlighting how private sector governance can be utilised to support innovation in the public sector. The value of this approach is supported by an example which has been in operation for seven years; the special purpose vehicle operates using private sector governance but is essentially owned by a group of large public sector organisations.
Innovative Problem Solving: The Next Big Thing
Authors: Harrington Jim , Voehl Frank
Published: February 2011

The age of innovation is here. In most business organizations, creativity is a means to an end, which is innovation. Creativity is the process of generating something new that has value to an organization, group or individual. Innovation is the process of generating a new mindset to produce something that has significant value to an organization or an individual or to society in general. The operative word that distinguishes innovations from creativity is significant. Innovation is the successful implementation of a new concept or product. Innovation is the sustainable process that provides a significant competitive advantage. Research has turned innovation from a haphazard, random occurrence into an understood process that anyone can benefit from. This paper reveals how this new exciting problem-solving and product/process development methodology has become the cornerstone of our Innovative Problem Solving model and the promise of exciting new things to come.
Innovative Atmosphere Relating to Success Factors of Entrepreneurial Managers in the Organization Agility-An Empirical Study
Authors: Dubey Rameshwar , Ghai Sachin
Published: February 2011

In this study the relationship between the role of innovative intermediaries in a conversion leadership style and innovative behavior of managers and staff is investigated. Research findings confirm the relations between innovative intermediaries and intellectual arousal, motivation inspiration, thoughtful individual with innovative behavior (01 / 0> p), but the relations between the role of innovative intermediaries and creative ideas and the influence of systematic problem solving style on innovative behavior (01 / 0> p) was not confirmed.
The Use of Adiabatic Surface Temperature to Design Structures For Fire Exposure
Authors: Wickström Ulf , Robbins Amanda , Baker Greg
Published: February 2011

Ongoing international collaborative research clearly demonstrates that the concept of adiabatic surface temperature is a simple single parameter to describe the complex convective and radiative conditions to which the surface of a structural element is exposed during fire. This parameter is a convenient and simple interface between fire and thermal/structural models. This paper presents existing published and new unpublished research for fire/structural engineers so as to contribute to the advancement of the engineering practice of designing structures in fire.
The Accrual Anomaly: Risk or Mispricing?
Authors: Hirshleifer David , Hou Kewei , Teoh Siew Hong
Published: February 2011

We document considerable return comovement associated with accruals after controlling for other common factors. An accrual-based factor-mimicking portfolio has a Sharpe ratio of 0.16, higher than that of the market factor or the SMB and HML factors of Fama and French. According to rational frictionless asset pricing models, the ability of accruals to predict returns should come from the loadings on this accrual factor-mimicking portfolio. However, our tests indicate that it is the accrual characteristic rather than the accrual factor loading that predicts returns. These findings suggest that investors misvalue the accrual characteristic and cast doubt on the rational risk explanation.

This paper was accepted by Brad Barber, Teck Ho, and Terrance Odean, special issue editors.
Market Madness? The Case of Mad Money
Authors: Engelberg Joseph , Sasseville Caroline , Williams Jared
Published: February 2011

We use the popular television show Mad Money, hosted by Jim Cramer, to test theories of attention and limits to arbitrage. Stock recommendations on Mad Money constitute attention shocks to a large audience of individual traders. We find that stock recommendations lead to large overnight returns that subsequently reverse over the next few months. The spike-reversal pattern is strongest among small, illiquid stocks that are hard to arbitrage. Using daily Nielsen ratings as a direct measure of attention, we find that the overnight return is strongest when high-income viewership is high. We also find weak price effects among sell recommendations. Taken together, the evidence supports the retail attention hypothesis of Barber and Odean (Barber, B., T. Odean. 2008. All that glitters: The effect of attention and news on the buying behavior of individual and institutional investors. Rev. Financial Stud. 21(2) 785–818) and illustrates the potential role of media in generating mispricing.

This paper was accepted by Brad Barber, Teck Ho, and Terrance Odean, special issue editors.
Promised Delivery Time and Capacity Games in Time-Based Competition
Authors: Shang Weixin , Liu Liming
Published: February 2011

We investigate firms' competitive behaviors in industries where customers are sensitive to both promised delivery time (PDT) and quality of service (QoS) measured by the on-time delivery rate. To study the competition in PDT at the marketing level, we construct an oligopoly game with an external QoS requirement. We show that there exists a unique Nash equilibrium, and the equilibrium QoS exhibits a switching surface structure with respect to capacities. To study the competition in capacity at the strategic level, we construct a two-stage game in which the firms compete in terms of their capacities in stage 1 and in terms of PDT in stage 2. We show the existence of two different types of pure strategy equilibria and characterize them. This study provides the following insights: an index of time-based competitive advantage (ITCA) and the first-mover advantage determine the positions of the firms in time-based competition; either the well-known prisoner's dilemma or off-equilibrium behaviors due to different preferences for equilibria (when multiple equilibria exist) may lead the firms to overinvest in capacity, but no one may gain a competitive advantage; a uniform improvement in internal efficiency (i.e., a uniform capacity cost reduction) may harm everyone; quality differentiation (i.e., going beyond the QoS benchmark) plays a dual role in time-based competition, either helping a firm with a larger ITCA to compete more effectively, or helping a firm possibly with a smaller ITCA to preempt competitors and protect its market advantage.

This paper was accepted by Paul H. Zipkin, operations and supply chain management.
Sharing Demand Information in Competing Supply Chains with Production Diseconomies
Authors: Ha Albert Y. , Tong Shilu , Zhang Hongtao
Published: February 2011

This paper studies the incentive for vertical information sharing in competing supply chains with production technologies that exhibit diseconomies of scale. We consider a model of two supply chains each consisting of one manufacturer selling to one retailer, with the retailers engaging in Cournot or Bertrand competition. For Cournot retail competition, we show that information sharing benefits a supply chain when (1) the production diseconomy is large and (2) either competition is less intense or at least one retailer's information is less accurate. A supply chain may become worse off when making its information more accurate or production diseconomy smaller, if such an improvement induces the firms in the rival supply chain to cease sharing information. For Bertrand retail competition, we show that information sharing benefits a supply chain when (1) the production diseconomy is large and (2) either competition is less intense or information is more accurate. Under Bertrand competition a manufacturer may be worse off by receiving information, which is never the case under Cournot competition. Information sharing in one supply chain triggers a competitive reaction from the other supply chain and this reaction is damaging to the first supply chain under Cournot competition but may be beneficial under Bertrand competition.

This paper was accepted by Martin Lariviere, operations management.
The “New” Marijuana
Authors: Wells Daina L , Ott Carol A
Published: February 2011

Synthetic cannabinoid-induced toxicity is increasing in frequency across the US, with more than 1057 reported cases as of August 2010. There is a paucity of literature on synthetic cannabinoid toxicity; however, there are various reports of adverse effects including tachycardia, hypertension, tachypnea, chest pain, heart palpitations, hallucinations, racing thoughts, and seizures. While reports suggest that toxic symptoms last no longer than 3-4 hours, with no residual adverse effects in many cases, there is concern about serious acute and long-term toxicities. This article reviews the development, abuse, toxicity, treatment, and legal status of synthetic cannabinoids. It is important for health-care professionals to recognize and appropriately treat synthetic cannabinoid-induced toxicity.