bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transforming growth factor β 869C/T and interleukin 6 -174G/C polymorphisms relate to the severity and progression of bone-erosive damage detected by ultrasound in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ceccarelli Fulvia , Perricone Carlo , Fabris Martina , Alessandri Cristiano , Iagnocco Annamaria , Fabro Cinzia , Pontarini Elena , De Vita Salvatore , Valesini Guido
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and IL-6 genes (respectively, 869C/T and -174G/C) have been associated with radiographic severity of bone-erosive damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) is more sensitive than radiography in detecting bone erosion. We analyzed the association between TGF-β 869C/T and IL-6 -174G/C SNPs and bone-erosive damage, evaluated by US, in a cohort of patients with severely active RA.

Methods

Seventy-seven patients were enrolled before beginning anti-TNF treatment. Disease activity was measured using the disease activity score in 28 joints, and the clinical response was evaluated according to the European League Against Rheumatism response criteria. Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anticitrullinated protein/peptide antibodies (ACPAs) were detected. The 869C/T TGF-β and -174G/C IL-6 SNPs were analyzed by PCR amplification. US was performed to assess the bone surfaces of metacarpophalengeal (MCP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints by obtaining multiplanar scans. According to the number of erosions per joint, a semiquantitative score ranging from 0 to 3 was calculated in each anatomical site to obtain a MCP total erosion score (TES), a PIP TES and a MTP TES, all ranging from 0 to 30, and a global patient TES calculated as the sum of these scores (range, 0 to 90).

Results

Patients carrying the TGF-β 869TT genotype showed a statistically significant lower MTP TES than those with the CC or CT genotype (mean MTP TES ± standard deviation for 869TT 6.3 ± 5.7 vs. 869CC/CT 11.7 ± 7.8; P = 0.011). Interestingly, patients with the TT genotype showed dichotomous behavior that was dependent on autoantibody status. In the presence of ACPAs and/or RF, the TT genotype was associated with lower erosion scores at all anatomical sites compared with the CC and CT genotypes. Conversely, the same 869TT patients showed higher erosion scores in the absence of ACPAs or RF.

Conclusions

In RA patients, TGF-β 869C/T SNPs could influence the bone-erosive damage as evaluated by US. The serological autoantibody status (ACPAs and RF) can modulate this interaction.
A comparative analysis of DNA methylation across human embryonic stem cell lines
Authors: Chen Pao-Yang , Feng Suhua , Joo Jong Wha Joanne , Jacobsen Steve E , Pellegrini Matteo
Published: August 2011

Background

We performed a comparative analysis of the genome-wide DNA methylation profiles from three human embryonic stem cell (HESC) lines. It had previously been shown that HESC lines had significantly higher non-CG methylation than differentiated cells, and we therefore asked whether these sites were conserved across cell lines.

Results

We find that heavily methylated non-CG sites are strongly conserved, especially when found within the motif TACAG. They are enriched in splice sites and are more methylated than other non-CG sites in genes. We next studied the relationship between allele-specific expression and allele-specific methylation. By combining bisulfite sequencing and whole transcriptome shotgun sequencing (RNA-seq) data we identified 1,020 genes that show allele-specific expression, and 14% of CG sites genome-wide have allele-specific methylation. Finally, we asked whether the methylation state of transcription factor binding sites affects the binding of transcription factors. We identified variations in methylation levels at binding sites and found that for several transcription factors the correlation between the methylation at binding sites and gene expression is generally stronger than in the neighboring sequences.

Conclusions

These results suggest a possible but as yet unknown functional role for the highly methylated conserved non-CG sites in the regulation of HESCs. We also identified a novel set of genes that are likely transcriptionally regulated by methylation in an allele-specific manner. The analysis of transcription factor binding sites suggests that the methylation state of cis-regulatory elements impacts the ability of factors to bind and regulate transcription.
Differential patterns of intronic and exonic DNA regions with respect to RNA polymerase II occupancy, nucleosome density and H3K36me3 marking in fission yeast
Authors: Wilhelm Brian T , Marguerat Samuel , Aligianni Sofia , Codlin Sandra , Watt Stephen , Bähler Jürg
Published: August 2011

Background

The generation of mature mRNAs involves interconnected processes, including transcription by RNA polymerase II (Pol II), modification of histones, and processing of pre-mRNAs through capping, intron splicing, and polyadenylation. These processes are thought to be integrated, both spatially and temporally, but it is unclear how these connections manifest at a global level with respect to chromatin patterns and transcription kinetics. We sought to clarify the relationships between chromatin, transcription and splicing using multiple genome-wide approaches in fission yeast.

Results

To investigate these functional interdependencies, we determined Pol II occupancy across all genes using high-density tiling arrays. We also performed ChIP-chip on the same array platform to globally map histone H3 and its H3K36me3 modification, complemented by formaldehyde-assisted isolation of regulatory elements (FAIRE). Surprisingly, Pol II occupancy was higher in introns than in exons, and this difference was inversely correlated with gene expression levels at a global level. Moreover, introns showed distinct distributions of histone H3, H3K36me3 and FAIRE signals, similar to those at promoters and terminators. These distinct transcription and chromatin patterns of intronic regions were most pronounced in poorly expressed genes.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that Pol II accumulates at the 3' ends of introns, leading to substantial transcriptional delays in weakly transcribed genes. We propose that the global relationship between transcription, chromatin remodeling, and splicing may reflect differences in local nuclear environments, with highly expressed genes being associated with abundant processing factors that promote effective intron splicing and transcriptional elongation.
Oxaliplatin As Adjuvant Therapy for Colon Cancer: Updated Results of NSABP C-07 Trial, Including Survival and Subset Analyses
Authors: Yothers Greg , O'Connell Michael J. , Allegra Carmen J. , Kuebler J. Philip , Colangelo Linda H. , Petrelli Nicholas J. , Wolmark Norman
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) C-07 trial demonstrated that the addition of oxaliplatin to fluorouracil plus leucovorin (FULV) improved disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with stage II or III colon cancer. This analysis is the first publication of overall survival (OS) for the NSABP C-07 study. We updated DFS and examined both end points in clinically relevant patient subsets.

Patients and Methods

Other studies have identified patients age 70 or older and those with stage II disease as patient subsets in which oxaliplatin may not be effective. We investigated toxicity as a driver of divergent outcomes in these subsets.

Results

In all, 2,409 eligible patients with follow-up were randomly assigned to either FULV (FU 500 mg/m2 by intravenous [IV] bolus weekly for 6 weeks; leucovorin 500 mg/m2 IV weekly for 6 weeks of each 8-week cycle for three cycles) or FLOX (FULV plus oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 15, and 29 of each cycle). With 8 years median follow-up, OS was similar between treatment groups (hazard ratio [HR], 0.88; 95% CI, 0.75 to 1.02; P = .08). FLOX remained superior for DFS (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.72 to 0.93; P = .002). The effect of oxaliplatin on OS did not differ by stage of disease (interaction P = .38 for OS; interaction P = 0.37 for DFS) but did vary by age for OS (younger than age 70 v 70+ interaction P = .039). There was a similar trend for DFS (interaction P = .073). Oxaliplatin significantly improved OS in patients younger than age 70 (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.68 to 0.95; P = .013), but no positive effect was evident in older patients.

Conclusion

Overall, the addition of oxaliplatin to FULV has not been proven to extend OS in this trial, but the DFS effect remained strong. Unplanned subset analyses suggest a significant OS effect of oxaliplatin in patients younger than age 70.
Mechanisms of thymus organogenesis and morphogenesis
Authors: Gordon Julie , Manley Nancy R.
Published: August 2011

The thymus is the primary organ responsible for generating functional T cells in vertebrates. Although T cell differentiation within the thymus has been an area of intense investigation, the study of thymus organogenesis has made slower progress. The past decade, however, has seen a renewed interest in thymus organogenesis, with the aim of understanding how the thymus develops to form a microenvironment that supports T cell maturation and regeneration. This has prompted modern revisits to classical experiments and has driven additional genetic approaches in mice. These studies are making significant progress in identifying the molecular and cellular mechanisms that control specification, early organogenesis and morphogenesis of the thymus.
Lef1 is required for progenitor cell identity in the zebrafish lateral line primordium
Authors: McGraw Hillary F. , Drerup Catherine M. , Culbertson Maya D. , Linbo Tor , Raible David W. , Nechiporuk Alexei V.
Published: August 2011

The zebrafish posterior lateral line (pLL) is a sensory system that comprises clusters of mechanosensory organs called neuromasts (NMs) that are stereotypically positioned along the surface of the trunk. The NMs are deposited by a migrating pLL primordium, which is organized into polarized rosettes (proto-NMs). During migration, mature proto-NMs are deposited from the trailing part of the primordium, while progenitor cells in the leading part give rise to new proto-NMs. Wnt signaling is active in the leading zone of the primordium and global Wnt inactivation leads to dramatic disorganization of the primordium and a loss of proto-NM formation. However, the exact cellular events that are regulated by the Wnt pathway are not known. We identified a mutant strain, lef1nl2, that contains a lesion in the Wnt effector gene lef1. lef1nl2 mutants lack posterior NMs and live imaging reveals that rosette renewal fails during later stages of migration. Surprisingly, the overall primordium patterning, as assayed by the expression of various markers, appears unaltered in lef1nl2 mutants. Lineage tracing and mosaic analyses revealed that the leading cells (presumptive progenitors) move out of the primordium and are incorporated into NMs; this results in a decrease in the number of proliferating progenitor cells and eventual primordium disorganization. We concluded that Lef1 function is not required for initial primordium organization or migration, but is necessary for proto-NM renewal during later stages of pLL formation. These findings revealed a novel role for the Wnt signaling pathway during mechanosensory organ formation in zebrafish.
Regulation of extra-embryonic endoderm stem cell differentiation by Nodal and Cripto signaling
Authors: Julio Marianna Kruithof-de , Alvarez Mariano J. , Galli Antonella , Chu Jianhua , Price Sandy M. , Califano Andrea , Shen Michael M.
Published: August 2011

The signaling pathway for Nodal, a ligand of the TGFβ superfamily, plays a central role in regulating the differentiation and/or maintenance of stem cell types that can be derived from the peri-implantation mouse embryo. Extra-embryonic endoderm stem (XEN) cells resemble the primitive endoderm of the blastocyst, which normally gives rise to the parietal and the visceral endoderm in vivo, but XEN cells do not contribute efficiently to the visceral endoderm in chimeric embryos. We have found that XEN cells treated with Nodal or Cripto (Tdgf1), an EGF-CFC co-receptor for Nodal, display upregulation of markers for visceral endoderm as well as anterior visceral endoderm (AVE), and can contribute to visceral endoderm and AVE in chimeric embryos. In culture, XEN cells do not express Cripto, but do express the related EGF-CFC co-receptor Cryptic (Cfc1), and require Cryptic for Nodal signaling. Notably, the response to Nodal is inhibited by the Alk4/Alk5/Alk7 inhibitor SB431542, but the response to Cripto is unaffected, suggesting that the activity of Cripto is at least partially independent of type I receptor kinase activity. Gene set enrichment analysis of genome-wide expression signatures generated from XEN cells under these treatment conditions confirmed the differing responses of Nodal- and Cripto-treated XEN cells to SB431542. Our findings define distinct pathways for Nodal and Cripto in the differentiation of visceral endoderm and AVE from XEN cells and provide new insights into the specification of these cell types in vivo.
Regulation of tooth number by fine-tuning levels of receptor-tyrosine kinase signaling
Authors: Charles Cyril , Hovorakova Maria , Ahn Youngwook , Lyons David B. , Marangoni Pauline , Churava Svatava , Biehs Brian , Jheon Andrew , Lesot Hervé , Balooch Guive , Krumlauf Robb , Viriot Laurent , Peterkova Renata , Klein Ophir D.
Published: August 2011

Much of our knowledge about mammalian evolution comes from examination of dental fossils, because the highly calcified enamel that covers teeth causes them to be among the best-preserved organs. As mammals entered new ecological niches, many changes in tooth number occurred, presumably as adaptations to new diets. For example, in contrast to humans, who have two incisors in each dental quadrant, rodents only have one incisor per quadrant. The rodent incisor, because of its unusual morphogenesis and remarkable stem cell-based continuous growth, presents a quandary for evolutionary biologists, as its origin in the fossil record is difficult to trace, and the genetic regulation of incisor number remains a largely open question. Here, we studied a series of mice carrying mutations in sprouty genes, the protein products of which are antagonists of receptor-tyrosine kinase signaling. In sprouty loss-of-function mutants, splitting of gene expression domains and reduced apoptosis was associated with subdivision of the incisor primordium and a multiplication of its stem cell-containing regions. Interestingly, changes in sprouty gene dosage led to a graded change in incisor number, with progressive decreases in sprouty dosage leading to increasing numbers of teeth. Moreover, the independent development of two incisors in mutants with large decreases in sprouty dosage mimicked the likely condition of rodent ancestors. Together, our findings indicate that altering genetic dosage of an antagonist can recapitulate ancestral dental characters, and that tooth number can be progressively regulated by changing levels of activity of a single signal transduction pathway.
Tumor necrosis factor-α induces epithelial–mesenchymal transition of renal cell carcinoma cells via a nuclear factor kappa B-independent mechanism
Authors: Wu Sheng-Tang , Sun Guang-Huan , Hsu Chih-Ying , Huang Chang-Shuo , Wu Yu-Hsin , Wang Hsiao-Hsien , Sun Kuang-Hui
Published: August 2011

Chronic low dose of tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF- α) stimulation promotes tumorigenesis by facilitating tumor proliferation and metastasis. The plasma levels of TNF- α are increased in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Furthermore, high-grade clear cell RCC cell lines secrete more TNF- α than low-grade ones, and allow low-grade cell lines' gain of invasive ability. However, the molecular mechanism of TNF- α in mediating progression of RCC cells remains unclear. In the present study, TNF- α induced epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) of RCC cells by repressing E-cadherin, promoting invasiveness and activating matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 9 activity. RCC cells underwent promoted growth in vivo following stimulation with TNF- α. In addition, TNF- α induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, nuclear factor kappa B (NF- κB) and Akt in a time-dependent manner, and increased nuclear translocation and promoter activity of NF- κB. To investigate the role of NF- κB activation in TNF- α-induced EMT of RCC, we employed chemical inhibitors (NF- κB activation inhibitor and Bay 11-7082) and transfected dominant-negative (pCMV-I κB αM) and overexpressive (pFLAG-p65) vectors of NF- κB. While overexpression of NF- κB p65 alone could induce E-cadherin loss in RCC, EMT phenotypes and MMP9 expressions induced by TNF- α were not reversed by the inhibitors of NF- κB activation. These results suggest that the TNF- α signaling pathway is involved in the tumorigenesis of RCC. However, NF- κB activation is not crucial for invasion and EMT enhanced by TNF- α in RCC cells.
El léxico gastronómico medieval delCancionero de Baena
Authors: Quero Salvador López
Published: August 2011

Los poetas delCancionero de Baenaestablecen frecuentes oposiciones entre la buena y mala comida:adefinafrente açahena; almodrote, alfeñique, brescas, ornazoyxirafrente acollaçiónypotage; corvina, salmón, truchasycalamayofrente amerluz, çeçial, albur, congrio, morenaysardina; carne de toro, de fiambreyde sal secafrente aperdiz; yperos, castañas, nuezes, pumasytorrontésfrente abadeha. Muchos de estos términos se usan con un sentido irónico y figurado, y algunos de ellos se documentan por vez primera en esta obra. Por otra parte, los términos relacionados con el vino se hallan en la composición +587 de Juan Agraz.
Sur le nom de lieu Courtavon (Haut-Rhin): une mise au point étymologique
Authors: Chambon Jean-Pierre , Müller Wulf
Published: August 2011

Courtavon liegt im elsässischen Sundgau an der Schweizer Grenze. Sein Name setzt die jurassische curtis-Landschaft fort, deren deutsche Übersetzungen auf -dorf lauten. Nur durch die Bereinigung der Belegliste und dank dem Exonym Ottendorf gelangt man einen Schritt weiter.
Zur Etymologie von pg. ardina (‘Zeitungsjunge’)
Authors: Barme Stefan
Published: August 2011

Nesta contribuição propõe-se uma etimologia para o substantivo português ardina. A questão da origem desta palavra não é tratada na literatura romanística e na lexicografia do português só se encontra a indicação que o lexema é «de origem obscura».
The Effect of Stabilizing Agent on Platinum Nanoparticles and Implications Towards the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Blavo Selasi O. , Baldyga Lyndsey , Sanchez Maria D. , Kuhn John N.
Published: August 2011

ABSTRACT: The stability of precious metals under acidic conditions is a potential challenge for several applications, including proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Strategies addressing this problem have been tested, including the addition of organic stabilizing agents such as polypyrrole. Organic stabilizing agents also have been used to synthesize precious metal nanoparticles by assisting in the regulation of the nucleation and growth rates. In this study, the stability of 3 nm Pt nanoparticles, synthesized using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a capping agent, under acidic conditions was assessed. Well-defined 3 nm Pt nanoparticles were synthesized using a combination of metal precursor, Hexachloroplatinic acid (H2PtCl6), surfactant (PVP), alcohol (methanol), and water. The metal ion reduction rate was controlled by choosing an appropriate alcohol concentration and surfactant amount. Electrocatalytic properties of the nanoparticles were investigated using cyclic voltammetry electrochemistry experiments, to determine the corresponding electrochemical stability. Batches of washed (in cycles of hexane and ethanol) and unwashed nanoparticles were cycled between the hydrogen and oxygen reduction potentials. Results from the electrochemistry experiment were further correlated with temperature-programmed oxidation experiments after supporting the nanoparticles on silica. Detailed results of this work are presented in this paper, and potential implications for the oxygen reduction reaction and PEMFCs are discussed.
Mendel's Peas & the Nature of the Gene: Genes Code for Proteins & Proteins Determine Phenotype
Authors: Offner Susan
Published: August 2011

We are beginning to understand the biochemical nature of the genes that Gregor Mendel studied in his classic experiments with garden peas. This paper shows where Mendel's genes are located on the pea chromosome map, discusses the mutations involved in some of these genes, and shows how they can be used to teach classical genetics and the nature of the gene.
Educational Curriculum Standards & Standardized Educational Tests: Comparing Apples & Oranges?
Authors: Stansfield William D.
Published: August 2011

Mandated biology curriculum standards and standardized tests may vary widely from one state to another, making academic-performance comparisons among the states problematic. This report outlines the effects of the "No Child Left Behind" law and uses California as a test case against which teachers in other states may make comparisons of their own biology curriculum standards and tests. Several sources are cited that offer sample multiple-choice questions that have appeared on previous California standardized tests for sciences/life sciences/biology. These examples, and critique thereof, may help teachers better prepare their own tests to improve student performance in meeting the state's curriculum standards in individual science classes and in mandated statewide tests.
What Are Bottlenose Dolphins Doing on Land? An Activity Teaching the Scientific Method through the Unique Behavior of Strand Feeding
Authors: Bowen-Stevens Sabrina R. , Cox Tara M. , Curran Mary Carla
Published: August 2011

All scientists use the scientific method to investigate the unknown by developing a hypothesis, designing an experiment, collecting data, and interpreting findings. The purpose of this activity is to teach middle school students about the scientific method and foraging ecology as they investigate a foraging behavior (strand feeding) of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). We tested this activity on middle school students and found that the activity promoted student inquiry, ingenuity, and critical thinking as the students used the scientific method to answer questions about strand feeding.
Modeling Gene Expression Using Sentences: A Short Activity to Accompany Genetics Units
Authors: Lampert Evan
Published: August 2011

I explain a classroom activity to model translation of RNA into proteins. Students are given worksheets with short mRNA sequences and a genetic code coding phrases instead of amino acids. Students use the code to write a sentence from their mRNA sequences; a "Chuck Norris fact" is provided as an example. I also provide instructions to expand this activity to include transcription of DNA into RNA.
Exercise-induced GH secretion in the assessment of GH deficiency in adult individuals
Authors: Zueger Thomas , Alleman Sabin , Christ Emanuel R , Stettler Christoph
Published: August 2011

Objective

The role of exercise testing in the assessment of GH deficiency (GHD) in adult patients is currently unclear. This study aimed at evaluating the diagnostic value of exercise-induced GH levels in the detection of severe GHD in adult patients.

Methods

Fourteen patients confirmed to have severe GHD according to current guidelines and 20 healthy control individuals (CI) exercised for 120 min at 50–60% of their individual VO2max. GH was measured before and every 30 min throughout exercise. The diagnostic value of predicting GHD was assessed by performing receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis for each time point of GH assessment. To optimise comparability within the study population a sub-analysis with ten individuals specifically matched for gender, age, body mass index and waist was performed.

Results

Exercise-induced GH secretion was significantly lower in patients with GHD than in CI (P<0.001). Area under the ROC curve (AUCROC) was 0.954±0.033, 0.993±0.009, 0.989±0.012 and 0.992±0.009 for the overall population and 0.870±0.086, 0.980±0.024, 0.970±0.034 and 0.978±0.027 for the matched individuals at 30, 60, 90 and 120 min of exercise respectively. At 60 min of exercise a cut off GH value of 2.4 ng/ml translates into a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 95 and 90% in the diagnosis of GHD for the overall population and matched individuals respectively.

Conclusion

GH assessment during a standardised aerobic exercise of moderate intensity is a reliable test with high diagnostic accuracy in predicting severe GHD in adult individuals. Based on the current findings exercise duration of 60 min appears to be sufficient for diagnostic purposes.
Congenital Left Main Coronary Artery to Coronary Sinus Fistula
Authors: Mitropoulos Fotios A. , Kanakis Meletios A. , Davlouros Periklis A. , Triantis George
Published: August 2011

Congenital coronary artery fistula is an extremely rare anomaly that may involve any of the coronary arteries and any of the cardiac chambers. We report the case of a 14-year-old female patient with a symptomatic congenital coronary fistula starting from the left main coronary artery and draining to the coronary sinus. The patient underwent surgical ligation of the fistula and had an excellent outcome.
Impact of Race on Mitral Procedure Selection and Short-Term Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Vassileva Christina M. , Markwell Steve , Boley Theresa , Hazelrigg Stephen
Published: August 2011

Background: Racial disparity with respect to mitral valve (MV) surgery has been documented; however, previous reports have been limited by small numbers, focus on patients undergoing MV replacement only, or comparison of African-American patients to white patients. Using more recent data from the largest all-payer database in the United States, we examined whether type of mitral procedure performed was influenced by race and whether racial differences exist in baseline characteristics and short-term outcomes of patients undergoing mitral repair or replacement for MV disease.

Methods: Using the 2005-2007 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) Database, we identified patients ? 30 years of age who underwent MV repair or replacement, excluding ischemic and congenital MV disease. Patients were stratified into 4 racial groups: whites, African-Americans, Hispanics, and others. The 4 groups were compared with respect to baseline characteristics, type of MV procedure (repair versus replacement), and short-term outcomes.

Results: Non-whites comprised 22.3% (7818 out of 35,074) of the patients and were generally younger, more often on Medicaid and from urban locations, and more often presented on an urgent/emergent basis. African-Americans and Hispanics tended to be less affluent and have a higher Charlson comorbidity index. MV repair was performed in 45.8% of the patients overall. The racial groups differed significantly with respect to the proportion of patients receiving repair. Hispanics were 2 times more likely to have MV replacement compared to whites (odds ratio [OR] = 2.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.52-2.80, P = .0001), and African-Americans were more than 1.5 times more likely to have replacement compared to whites (OR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.35-2.11). Following adjustment for baseline characteristics, there was no difference with respect to race for in-hospital mortality or likelihood of repair, but differences between groups persisted for length of stay and discharge location. African-Americans and Hispanics were more likely than whites to have a prolonged hospitalization.

Conclusions: African-Americans and Hispanics present for MV surgery with worse preoperative profiles and undergo mitral repair less often compared to whites. Although in-hospital mortality was not influenced by race, African-Americans and Hispanics had a more protracted hospital course even following adjustment. The disparity in mitral procedure selection among racial groups was present only prior to adjustment for important baseline characteristics. Nevertheless, this racial difference reflects current reality in surgical practice and identifies an important area for future improvement in the care of patients with valvular heart disease.
Coincidence of Free-Floating Thrombus in the Aortic Arch, Severe Mitral Stenosis, and Left Atrial Appendage Clot
Authors: Taghipour Hamid Reza , Farahani Maryam Moshkani , Ghiasi Saeid , Naseri Mohammad Hassan , Fakhraddin Faizi
Published: August 2011

We describe the surgical management of a free-floating thrombus in the aortic arch in a patient with severe mitral stenosis, a left atrial appendage (LAA) clot, and an iliac artery thrombus. A 60-year-old woman complaining of dyspnea and pain in her right leg was referred to our multidisciplinary clinic. After a brief history was taken, an electrocardiography evaluation showed atrial fibrillation. Color Doppler sonography of the lower limb arteries showed decreased blood flow in distal branches of the internal iliac artery of the right leg. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography evaluations revealed severe mitral stenosis, a large LAA clot, and a large mobile mass (2 � 1.5 � 1.5 cm) in the distal aortic arch. Additional investigations with computed tomographic angiography revealed that the thrombus extended from the aortic arch to the subclavian artery. Another bulky thrombus in the right iliac artery was also found. Given this complicated medical situation, emergency cardiac surgery was performed, and the clot was removed. The stenotic mitral valve was replaced with a prosthetic valve, The LAA was closed after clot removal, and the bulky thrombus was extracted from the right iliac artery. Transesophageal echocardiographic data were obtained postoperatively, and the patient's course in the intensive care unit was favorable. She was discharged from the hospital in good condition on warfarin, digoxin, aspirin, and metoprolol.
Radical and Harmless Shave Resection of Atypical Papillary Fibroelastomas of the Cardiac Valves
Authors: Cotrufo Maurizio , Sibilio Gerolamo , Marra Claudio , Dialetto Giovanni , Giordano Salvatore , De Feo Marisa , De Santo Luca Salvatore
Published: August 2011

Background: Papillary fibroelastomas (PFEs) are rare cardiac tumors usually treated by shave resection. Up to 20% of the patients are actually denied such a conservative surgical approach because atypical morphology is thought to preclude radical and effective outcomes.

Methods/Results: Surgical tricks and tips of shave resection are elucidated, and a case series presentation of the morphology of atypical PFEs treated by shave resection is described.

Conclusion: In experienced hands surgical shave resection is the gold standard for the treatment of PFE even in atypical presentations.
Aortopulmonary Window with Subaortic Fibrous Stenosis and Septal Defect: Surgery through a Minimal Right Vertical Infra-Axillary Thoracotomy
Authors: Pan Jun , Li Qing-Guo , Zhou Qing , Zhang Jie , Wang Qiang , Wu Zhong , Wang Dong-Jin
Published: August 2011

Aortopulmonary window with subaortic stenosis and ventricular septal defect is an uncommon congenital cardiac malformation that is repaired using cardiopulmonary bypass. The authors describe a 3-year-old patient on whom we performed surgery through a minimal right vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy. This minimally invasive surgery is likely to be applicable in a few cases.
Decisions of Black Parents About Infant Bedding and Sleep Surfaces: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ajao Taiwo I. , Oden Rosalind P. , Joyner Brandi L. , Moon Rachel Y.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this qualitative study was to examine factors influencing decisions by black parents regarding use of soft bedding and sleep surfaces for their infants.

METHODS:

We conducted focus groups and individual interviews with black mothers of lower and higher socioeconomic status (SES). Mothers were asked about many infant care practices, including sleep surface and bedding.

RESULTS:

Eighty-three mothers were interviewed, 73 (47 lower and 26 higher SES) in focus groups and 10 (7 lower and 3 higher SES) in individual interviews. The primary reason for using soft surfaces was infant comfort. Parents perceived that infants were uncomfortable if the surface was not soft. Many parents also interpreted “firm sleep surface” to mean taut; they were comfortable with and believed that they were following recommendations for a firm sleep surface when they placed pillows/blankets on the mattress as long as a sheet was pulled tautly over the pillows/blankets. The primary reasons for using soft bedding (including bumper pads) were comfort, safety, and aesthetics. In addition to using bedding to soften sleep surfaces, bedding was used to prevent infant rollover and falls, particularly for infants sleeping on a bed or sofa. Some parents used soft bedding to create an attractive space for the infant.

CONCLUSIONS:

Many black parents believe that soft bedding will keep their infant safe and comfortable. There is much misunderstanding about the meaning of a “firm” sleep surface. Additional educational messages apparently are needed to change parental perceptions and practices.
Randomized Controlled Trial Assessing Efficacy and Safety of Glycine Powder Air Polishing in Moderate‐to‐Deep Periodontal Pockets
Authors: Flemmig Thomas F. , Arushanov Daniyel , Daubert Diane , Rothen Marilynn , Mueller Gregory , Leroux Brian G.
Published: August 2011

Background: Supragingivally applied glycine powder air polishing (SupraGPAP) has been shown to remove biofilms in shallow periodontal pockets. This study assesses efficacy and safety of subgingivally applied glycine powder air polishing (SubGPAP) in moderate‐to‐deep periodontal pockets.

Methods: Patients with chronic periodontitis and intraoral Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Tannerella forsythia who completed initial therapy were randomly assigned to receive SubGPAP in periodontal pockets with probing depths of 4 to 9 mm, SupraGPAP in all other shallow periodontal sites, and at mucous membranes followed by removal of calculus using curets (full‐mouth GPAP) or scaling and root planing followed by coronal polishing (SRP). Patients rinsed with 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate after debridement, and twice daily, for 2 weeks.

Results: All 30 patients enrolled completed the baseline, day 10, and day 90 visits. SubGPAP resulted in significantly lower total viable bacterial counts in moderate‐to‐deep pockets when compared to SRP immediately after debridement and at day 10 (P <0.05). Total P. gingivalis counts in the oral cavity were significantly reduced after full‐mouth GPAP compared to SRP at day 90 (P <0.05). Patients’ comfort levels were high for both treatments. There were no adverse events related to full‐mouth GPAP.

Conclusions: The results indicate that SubGPAP is more efficacious in removing subgingival biofilm in moderate‐to‐deep periodontal pockets than SRP. Furthermore, full‐mouth GPAP may result in a beneficial shift of the oral microbiota and appears to be well tolerated.
Conservative Surgical Procedures on the Spleen
Authors: Petroianu Andy
Published: August 2011

The spleen is a very important organ with many essential functions, not only in the defense of the
organism, but also in its metabolism and immunological and the haematological systems. The most common
manifestations of the splenic disturbances include the splenomegaly and a decrease, in the number of blood
elements. After the removal of the spleen, 2% of adults present severe sepsis, while 5 % of children, the elderly
people and patients with severe chronic diseases are at risk of death due to septic conditions. Most of splenic
diseases may be treated conservatively. Operative procedures should be considered in special conditions, when all
conservative options have been unsuccessfully depleted. Even in the presence of a severe trauma to the spleen or
advanced haematological diseases, the best approach is a non-operative procedure. When the operation is
unavoidable, partial (preserving the splenic vascular pedicle) or subtotal (preserving the upper splenic pole, being
supplied only by the splenogastric vessels) splenectomies should be preferred. When a conservative procedure on
the spleen is unfeasible, the best option is a total splenectomy combined with the transplant of autogenous splenic
tissue on to the greater omentum. The technological advances and the progressive development of new surgical
devices are responsible for surgical approaches with less pain, faster postoperative recovery and better aesthetical
results without decreasing the therapeutic efficacy. The conservative splenic approach, whether clinical or
surgical, is the best way to prevent postsplenectomy infection, by preserving the spleen immune role. The surgeon
should choose the best surgical procedure and the size of the splenic remnant, remembering that at least 25 % of a
normal spleen should be left.
Splenic Trauma
Authors: Shimazu Takeshi
Published: August 2011

The spleen is one of the most frequently injured solid organs in blunt abdominal trauma [1]. In the
history of trauma care, however, injuries of the spleen have received but scant attention compared to those of the
liver and the kidney. Splenectomy has long been the preferred and standard treatment for bleeding from the spleen
caused by blunt trauma, because the spleen was regarded as to have no vital function [2]. Owing to the pioneering
article of King and Schumacher on the correlation between asplenia and overwhelming infection, the role of the
spleen as an immunologic organ particularly in children, came to be widely recognized in the 1960s [3-6]. Then,
splenic preservation treatment such as splenorrhaphy, partial splenectomy, and splenic embolisation, became the
optimal management techniques for blunt splenic injury [7,8]. Due to the advances in CT imaging and
angiography, nonoperative management (NOM) became the optimal management techniques for blunt splenic
injury, and splenic embolisation is a valuable adjunct to the NOM [9,10].
An experimental study on single basin solar still augmented with evacuated tubes
Authors: Sampathkumar K. , Mayilsamy K. , Shanmugam S. , Senthilkumar P.
Published: August 2011

The productivity of the solar still is determined by the temperature of water
in the basin and the glass temperature. Various active methods have been
adopted to increase the temperature of the basin, so as to improve the
productivity of solar still. Most of the previous research works have been
focusing on flat plate collector and concentrating collector. In this
experimental study, a single slope solar still directly augmented with
evacuated tubes was used to increase the daily productivity by reducing heat
losses. Evacuated tubes were directly coupled to the lower side of the single
slope solar still with an area of 1m2. Black gravel is used to increase the
productivity by means of reducing quantity of water in the basin. Extensive
experiments were conducted to explore the performance of solar still in
several modes namely still alone, still with black stones, still with
evacuated tubes, and still with evacuated tubes and black gravel. The
experimental setup was designed and installed at Solar Energy Park, Tamilnadu
College of Engineering, Coimbatore (77?E, 11?N), Tamilnadu, India. These
experiments were conducted using tap water as feed. It was found that, after
augmentation of the evacuated tubes, the daily production rate has increased
by 49.7 % and it increased by 59.48% with black stones. Economic analysis was
also done and payback period of this experimental setup is 235 days.
Combined radiation-natural convection in three-dimensional verticals cavities
Authors: Kolsi Lioua , Abidi Awatef , Maatki Chemseddine , Borjini Naceur , Aissia Ben
Published: August 2011

In this article we studied the effect of radiative transfer and the aspect
ratio on the 3D natural convection. Prandtl and Rayleigh numbers are
respectively fixed at 13.6 and 105. Equations of natural convection are
expressed according the vorticity-stream function formulation. This equations
and radiative transfer equation are respectively descritized by volume
control method and the FTnFVM. Obtained simulation show that the principal
flow structure is considerably modified when the radiation-conduction
parameter was varied. However, the peripheral spiraling motion is
qualitatively insensitive to these parameters.
Low power laser efficacy in the therapy of inflamed gingive in diabetics with parodontopathy
Authors: Obradovic Radmila , Kesic Ljiljana , Jovanovic Goran , Petrovic Dragan , Radicevic Goran , Mihailovic Dragan
Published: August 2011

Background/Aim. There is clear evidence on direct relationship between
periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus. Many investigations point out
greater prevalence and severity of periodontal disease among diabetic
patients. During last decade, low level laser therapy has been used in
periodontal therapy. It has biostimulative effect, accelerates wound healing,
minimizes pain and swelling, and there is almost no contraindication for its
usage. The aim of the paper was to investigate the efficiency of low level
laser therapy as adjuvant tool in reduction of gingival inflammation in
diabetic patients. Methods. The study incuded 150 participants divided into
three groups: group I (50 participants with diabetes mellitus type 1 and
periodontal disease), group II (50 participants with diabetes mellitus type 2
and periodontal disease), group III (nondiabetic participants with
periodontal disease). Gingival health evaluation was done using gingival
index L?e-Silness. Soft and hard deposits were removed, periodontal pockets
cleaned and GaAlAs low level laser therapy (5 mW) applied five consecutive
days. In each patient, low level laser therapy was not applied on the left
side of the jaw in order to compare the effects of the applied therapy. After
the first, third and fifth therapy and one month after the last visit
gingival index was evaluated. Before the first and after the fifth therapy
exfoliative cytology of gingiva was done and nuclei areal was analyzed
morphometrically. Results. After all investigated periods, gingival index and
nuclei areal were significantly decreased comparing to values before the
therapy, at both jaw sides (p < 0.001). After the 1st, 3rd and 5th therapy,
the t-test showed a significantly decreased gingival index at the lased side
of jaw comparing to non-lased side. Conclusion. Low level laser therapy is
efficient in gingival inflammation elimination and can be proposed as an
adjuvant tool in basic periodontal therapy of diabetic patients.
Primitive trigeminal artery associated with aterovenous malformation of cerebellum
Authors: Jovanovic Igor , Samardzic Miroslav , Nagulic Mirjana , Bascarevic Vladimir , Micovic Mirko , Milosevic Svetlana
Published: August 2011

Introduction. Persistence of fetal cerebral carotid basilar anastomoses is
rare. When it occurs, it is often associated with other vascular
malformations, and other pathological conditions. Trigeminal primitive artery
persistence is the most often among them. Coincidence of primitive trigeminal
artery with cerebellar arteriovenous malformation is extremely rare. Case
report. We reported a case of a 31-year-old woman with subarachnoid
hemorrhage and cerebellar hematoma admitted in serious condition. Angiography
demonstrated cerebellar arteriovenous malformation, primitive trigeminal
artery and other malformation of Willis circle. After a complete surgical
removal of arteriovenous malformation the patient was discharged without
neurological or any other deficit. Conclusion. We reported an extremely rare
condition, which had been reported very few times in the literature. The
importance of primitive artery persistence is in changed anatomical and
physiological condition of cerebral circulation, that is especially important
in surgical procedures.
Simultaneous stenting of the left main coronary stem and internal carotid artery in a hemodynamically unstable patient
Authors: Sagic Dragan , Antonic Zelimir , Stanisic Milan , Ilijevski Nenad , Milojevic Predrag , Masulovic Dragan , Radak Djordje
Published: August 2011

Introduction. Combined endovascular interventions on carotid and coronary
arteries are rare. Stenting of the unprotected coronary left main stem is a
high risk procedure. We presented hemodynamically unstable patient with
combined carotid artery and left main stem coronary artery stenting. Case
report. A 78-year-old female patient was admitted to our institution for
right carotid endaterectomy. The patient had 80% stenosis of the right
carotid artery and occlusion of the left carotid artery. Coronary angiography
revealed 70% ostial left main stenosis, occlusion of the right coronary
artery and the left circumflex artery, and 80% stenosis of the left anterior
descending artery. Simultaneous carotid artery endaterectomy and coronary
artery by-pass grafting were considered. Due to high perioperative risk,
surgery was rejected, and the patient was treated endovascularly with
stenting of arteries occluded. The procedure was completed without
complications and the patient was hemodynamically stabilised. Conclusion.
This report illustrates simultaneous coronary and carotid stenting as a
successfull lifesaving procedure.
Corporate Governance Research in Accounting and Auditing: Insights, Practice Implications, and Future Research Directions
Authors: Carcello Joseph V. , Hermanson Dana R. , Ye Zhongxia (Shelly)
Published: August 2011

Over the past two decades, the corporate governance literature in accounting and auditing has grown rapidly. To better understand this body of work, we discuss 12 recent literature review or meta-analysis papers and summarize selected results (i.e., clusters of papers with new and interesting results) from recent empirical research papers, after reviewing the findings of over 250 studies. Our corporate governance focus is primarily on corporate board and audit committee issues. We discuss the major insights from this literature and the practice implications of these findings. In addition, we identify a number of opportunities for future research. In particular, we make suggestions for: (1) improved research paradigms in corporate governance, (2) extensions of existing research, and (3) new or emerging lines of research.
Physico-chemical characteristics of shallow, high mountain Lake Blidinje (in a karst area of Bosnia and Herzegovina) with emphasis on its trophic status
Authors: Ivanković Anita , Habul Esma , Knezović Zrinka
Published: August 2011

This paper presents data on the physico-chemical characteristics of lake water from May to November, the period without ice cover. Chlorophyll a was monitored over two years from May to November (2006 and 2007). Water was sampled at five locations in the lake’s littoral zone. The following parameters were investigated: temperature, dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation, pH, total dissolved solid (TDS), Secchi depth (transparency), turbidity, suspended matter, conductivity, total hardness, alkalinity (bicarbonates), acidity, concentrations of nitrite (NO2
−), nitrate (NO3
−), ammonium (NH4
+), total nitrogen (TN), sulphate (SO4
2−), total iron (Fe), silica (SiO2), phosphate (PO4
3−), total phosphorous (TP) and chlorophyll a. Data were statistically analyzed.
Design Management
Authors: Knošková Ľubica
Published: August 2011

Design Management

The author analyzes in the paper the role of creativity and design in innovations, with emphasis on three theoretical models linking creativity, design and innovations. The effective use of design is linked to design management. The concept of design management relates to certain management activities, methods and skills that are required to optimize and manage design processes. The objective of Design management is the creation of synergy between the creative realm and the business realm. Factors influencing the level of design management are analyzed and suggestions for incorporating design as strategic function are outlined.