bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Network analysis of microRNAs and their regulation in human ovarian cancer
Authors: Schmeier Sebastian , Schaefer Ulf , Essack Magbubah , Bajic Vladimir B
Published: November 2011

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that repress the translation of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) or degrade mRNAs. These functions of miRNAs allow them to control key cellular processes such as development, differentiation and apoptosis, and they have also been implicated in several cancers such as leukaemia, lung, pancreatic and ovarian cancer (OC). Unfortunately, the specific machinery of miRNA regulation, involving transcription factors (TFs) and transcription co-factors (TcoFs), is not well understood. In the present study we focus on computationally deciphering the underlying network of miRNAs, their targets, and their control mechanisms that have an influence on OC development.

Results

We analysed experimentally verified data from multiple sources that describe miRNA influence on diseases, miRNA targeting of mRNAs, and on protein-protein interactions, and combined this data with ab initio transcription factor binding site predictions within miRNA promoter regions. From these analyses, we derived a network that describes the influence of miRNAs and their regulation in human OC. We developed a methodology to analyse the network in order to find the nodes that have the largest potential of influencing the network's behaviour (network hubs). We further show the potentially most influential miRNAs, TFs and TcoFs, showing subnetworks illustrating the involved mechanisms as well as regulatory miRNA network motifs in OC. We find an enrichment of miRNA targeted OC genes in the highly relevant pathways cell cycle regulation and apoptosis.

Conclusions

We combined several sources of interaction and association data to analyse and place miRNAs within regulatory pathways that influence human OC. These results represent the first comprehensive miRNA regulatory network analysis for human OC. This suggests that miRNAs and their regulation may play a major role in OC and that further directed research in this area is of utmost importance to enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying human cancer development and OC in particular.
Male circumcision for HIV prevention: current evidence and implementation in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Wamai Richard G , Morris Brian J , Bailis Stefan A , Sokal David , Klausner Jeffrey D , Appleton Ross , Sewankambo Nelson , Cooper David A , Bongaarts John , de Bruyn Guy , Wodak Alex D , Banerjee Joya
Published: November 2011

Heterosexual exposure accounts for most HIV transmission in sub‐Saharan Africa, and this mode, as a proportion of new infections, is escalating globally. The scientific evidence accumulated over more than 20 years shows that among the strategies advocated during this period for HIV prevention, male circumcision is one of, if not, the most efficacious epidemiologically, as well as cost‐wise. Despite this, and recommendation of the procedure by global policy makers, national implementation has been slow. Additionally, some are not convinced of the protective effect of male circumcision and there are also reports, unsupported by evidence, that non‐sex‐related drivers play a major role in HIV transmission in sub‐Saharan Africa. Here, we provide a critical evaluation of the state of the current evidence for male circumcision in reducing HIV infection in light of established transmission drivers, provide an update on programmes now in place in this region, and explain why policies based on established scientific evidence should be prioritized. We conclude that the evidence supports the need to accelerate the implementation of medical male circumcision programmes for HIV prevention in generalized heterosexual epidemics, as well as in countering the growing heterosexual transmission in countries where HIV prevalence is presently low.
Transcription factor NF-Y is involved in differentiation of R7 photoreceptor cell in Drosophila
Authors: Yoshioka Yasuhide , Ly Luong Linh , Yamaguchi Masamitsu
Published: November 2011

The CCAAT motif-binding factor NF-Y consists of three different subunits, NF-YA, NF-YB and NF-YC. Knockdown of Drosophila NF-YA (dNF-YA) in eye discs with GMR-GAL4 and UAS-dNF-YAIR resulted in a rough eye phenotype and monitoring of differentiation of photoreceptor cells by LacZ expression in seven up-LacZ and deadpan-lacZ enhancer trap lines revealed associated loss of R7 photoreceptor signals. In line with differentiation of R7 being regulated by the sevenless (sev) gene and the MAPK cascade, the rough eye phenotype and loss of R7 signals in dNF-YA-knockdown flies were rescued by expression of the sev gene, or the D-raf gene, a downstream component of the MAPK cascade. The sev gene promoter contains two dNF-Y-binding consensus sequences which play positive roles in promoter activity. In chromatin immunoprecipitation assays with anti-dNF-YA antibody and S2 cells, the sev gene promoter region containing the NF-Y consensus was effectively amplified in immunoprecipitates from transgenic flies by polymerase chain reaction, indicating that dNF-Y is necessary for appropriate sev expression and involved in R7 photoreceptor cell development.
Cane toads lack physiological enhancements for dispersal at the invasive front in Northern Australia
Authors: Tracy Christopher R. , Christian Keith A. , Baldwin John , Phillips Ben L.
Published: November 2011

Many invasive species have evolved behavioural and morphological characteristics that facilitate their dispersal into new areas, but it is unclear how selection on this level of the phenotype filters through to the underlying physiology. Cane toads have been dispersing westward across northern tropical Australia for more than 70 years. Previous studies of cane toads at the invasive front have identified several behavioural, morphological and locomotory characteristics that have evolved to facilitate dispersal of toads. We assessed a range of physiological characteristics associated with locomotory abilities in toads from the long-established, east coast of Australia, from the invasive front, and from a site in between these locations. We measured time to exhaustion and respiratory gases of toads exercising on a treadmill, time to recovery from exhaustion, blood properties (lactate, haematocrit, haemoglobin, red blood cell count, blood cell volume), and muscle properties associated with locomotion (activities of the enzymes citrate synthase and lactate dehydrogenase, and pH buffering capacity). None of the measured physiological parameters supported the hypothesis that toads from the invasive front possess physiological adaptations that facilitate dispersal compared to toads from areas colonised in the past. The strongest difference among the three groups of toads, time to exhaustion, showed exactly the opposite trend; toads from the long-established populations in the east coast had the longest time to exhaustion. Successful colonisers can employ many characteristics to facilitate their dispersal, so the extent to which behaviour, morphology and physiology co-evolve remains an interesting question. However, in the present case at least, behavioural adaptations do not appear to have altered the organism's underlying physiology.
High-Yield Synthesis of Dendrimers through Alternate Multiaddition Reactions with Commercially Available Reagents
Authors: Aoki Ken’ichi , Ichimura Kunihiro
Published: November 2011

An alternate multiaddition (AMA) process consisting of Michael addition and urethane formation is proposed to achieve the quantity synthesis of dendrimers without by-product formation and any weight loss by using commercially available compounds. α-Thioglycerol (TG) was added to pentaerythritol tetraacrylate (PETA) to give the corresponding octaol, but the subsequent reaction with 1,1-bis(acryloyloxymethyl)ethyl isocyanate (BEI) resulted in incomplete urethane formation because of the steric effect of the secondary OH groups. The replacement of BEI with 2-isocyanatoethyl acrylate (AOI) improved the efficiency of the addition of NCO to the secondary OH groups, but an excess amount of AOI was required. Subsequently, we employed the combination of PETA, 2-sulfanylethanol (SE), and BEI. The addition of SE to PETA produced readily the tetraol, which was reacted with BEI to afford dendritic octaacrylate (Ac8b). The repetition of the two addition reactions gave dendritic octaol and hexadecylacrylate (Ac16b), respectively, in large scales. The base-catalyzed Michael addition of 2-naphthalenethiol to acrylate residues of Ac8a and Ac16b gave naphthylthio-terminated dendrimers N8b and N16b, respectively, which were purified by column chromatography. GPC as well as UV-spectroscopic analysis of N8b and N16b revealed that N8b is reasonably monodispersed whereas the purity of N16b is slightly reduced.
Diphenyl Diselenide-Assisted α-Phenylthiolation of Carbonyl Compounds with Diphenyl Disulfide
Authors: Anbou Hiroaki , Umeda Rui , Nishiyama Yutaka
Published: November 2011

For the cesium carbonate-catalyzed α-phenylthiolation of carbonyl compounds with diphenyl disulfide, the yields of the α-phenylthio carbonyl compounds were dramatically improved by the addition of a catalytic amount of diphenyl diselenide.
Synthesis and Optical Properties of Pyridino End-Capped Oligothiophenes
Authors: Hwang Yong-Mook , Ohshita Joji , Mizumo Tomonobu , Yoshida Hiroto , Kunugi Yoshihito , Sugioka Takashi
Published: November 2011

Oligothiophenes end-capped with fused pyridino units were synthesized by means of the Stille coupling and their optical properties were studied. These compounds show absorption maxima and edges at 324–374 nm and 3.10–2.76 eV, respectively, depending on the oligothiophene chain lengths. DFT calculations indicate that both the HOMO and LUMO levels are lowered by the introduction of the pyridino units.
Increased length of inpatient stay and poor clinical coding: audit of patients with diabetes
Authors: Daultrey Harriet , Gooday Erine , Dhatariya Ketan
Published: November 2011

Objectives

People with diabetes stay in hospital for longer than those without diabetes for similar conditions. Clinical coding is poor across all specialties. Inpatients with diabetes often have unrecognized foot problems. We wanted to look at the relationships between these factors.

Design

A single day audit, looking at the prevalence of diabetes in all adult inpatients. Also looking at their feet to find out how many were high-risk or had existing problems.

Setting

A 998-bed university teaching hospital.

Participants

All adult inpatients.

Main outcome measures

(a) To see if patients with diabetes and foot problems were in hospital for longer than the national average length of stay compared with national data; (b) to see if there were people in hospital with acute foot problems who were not known to the specialist diabetic foot team; and (c) to assess the accuracy of clinical coding.

Results

We identified 110 people with diabetes. However, discharge coding data for inpatients on that day showed 119 people with diabetes. Length of stay (LOS) was substantially higher for those with diabetes compared to those without (± SD) at 22.39 (22.26) days, vs. 11.68 (6.46) ( P < 0.001). Finally, clinical coding was poor with some people who had been identified as having diabetes on the audit, who were not coded as such on discharge.

Conclusion

Clinical coding – which is dependent on discharge summaries – poorly reflects diagnoses. Additionally, length of stay is significantly longer than previous estimates. The discrepancy between coding and diagnosis needs addressing by increasing the levels of awareness and education of coders and physicians. We suggest that our data be used by healthcare planners when deciding on future tariffs.
Association of glucocorticoid receptor polymorphism A3669G with decreased risk of developing diabetes in patients with Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Trementino Laura , Appolloni Gloria , Concettoni Carolina , Cardinaletti Marina , Boscaro Marco , Arnaldi Giorgio
Published: November 2011

Objective

Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) polymorphisms alter glucocorticoid (GC) sensitivity and have been associated with altered metabolic profiles. We evaluate the prevalence of the fourGR(NR3C1) polymorphisms BclI, N363S, ER22/23EK, and A3669G in patients with Cushing's syndrome (CS) compared with healthy controls (HC) and we investigate their role in the development of metabolic abnormalities in patients with CS according to their hormonal profile.

Patients and methods

Sixty-one patients with CS and 71 sex- and age-matched HC were genotyped.

Results

BclI variant was markedly higher in patients with CS compared with HC (62 vs 41%,P<0.05) while no significant differences were found among other polymorphisms. A very low frequency of N363S and the ER22/23EK was observed.

In CS patients, despite the significantly increased levels of morning serum cortisol in BclI carriers compared with wild type no clinical or metabolic differences were found.

In contrast, A3669GGRcarriers showed a significantly reduced prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus compared with wild type (19 vs 68%,P=0.001) despite the higher levels of both serum morning (21.7±6 vs 27.3±8.6 μg/dl,P=0.009) and midnight cortisol (18.8±5.8 vs 24.0±8.0 μg/dl,P=0.01). The negative association between diabetes and A3669GGRpolymorphism remained significant when data were adjusted for potential confounding factors.

Conclusions

The A3669G polymorphism of theGRgene plays a protective role in patients with CS, attenuating the effects of GC excess on glucose metabolism as shown by their reduced risk of diabetes.
Effects of teriparatide in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis pre-treated with bisphosphonates: 36-month results from the European Forsteo Observational Study
Authors: Jakob F , Oertel H , Langdahl B , Ljunggren O , Barrett A , Karras D , Walsh J B , Fahrleitner-Pammer A , Rajzbaum G , Barker C , Lems W F , Marin F
Published: November 2011

Objectives

To describe fracture rates, back pain, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis and prior bisphosphonate therapy, treated with teriparatide for up to 18 months and followed up for a further 18 months.

Design

Prospective, multinational, and observational study.

Methods

Data on prior bisphosphonate use, clinical fractures, back pain visual analog scale (VAS), and HRQoL (EQ-5D) were collected over 36 months. Fracture data were summarized in 6-month intervals and analyzed using logistic regression with repeated measures. Changes from baseline in back pain VAS and EQ-VAS were analyzed using a repeated measures model.

Results

Of the 1581 enrolled patients with follow-up data, 1161 (73.4%) had a history of prior bisphosphonate use (median duration: 36 months). Of them, 169 (14.6%) sustained ≥1 fracture during 36-month follow-up. Adjusted odds of fracture were significantly decreased at each 6-month interval compared with the first 6 months of teriparatide treatment: 37% decrease in the 12 to <18 months period during teriparatide treatment (P=0.03) and a 76% decrease in the 12- to 18-month period after teriparatide was discontinued (P<0.001). Significant reductions in back pain and improvement in HRQoL were observed.

Conclusions

Postmenopausal women with severe osteoporosis previously treated with bisphosphonates had a significant reduction in the incidence of fractures compared with the first 6 months of therapy, a reduction in back pain and an improvement in HRQoL during up to 18 months of teriparatide treatment. These outcomes were still evident for at least 18 months after teriparatide was discontinued. The results should be interpreted in the context of an uncontrolled, observational study in a routine clinical setting.
Association of hypogonadism with vitamin D status: the European Male Ageing Study
Authors: Lee David M , Tajar Abdelouahid , Pye Stephen R , Boonen Steven , Vanderschueren Dirk , Bouillon Roger , O'Neill Terence W , Bartfai Gyorgy , Casanueva Felipe F , Finn Joseph D , Forti Gianni , Giwercman Aleksander , Han Thang S , Huhtaniemi Ilpo T , Kula Krzysztof , Lean Michael E J , Pendleton Neil , Punab Margus , Wu Frederick C W , _ _
Published: November 2011

Objective

Interrelationships between hormones of the hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular (HPT) axis, hypogonadism, vitamin D and seasonality remain poorly defined. We investigated whether HPT axis hormones and hypogonadism are associated with serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) in men.

Design and methods

Cross-sectional survey of 3369 community-dwelling men aged 40–79 years in eight European centres. Testosterone (T), oestradiol (E2) and dihydrotestosterone were measured by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry; LH, FSH, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), 25(OH)D and parathyroid hormone by immunoassay. Free T was calculated from total T, SHBG and albumin. Gonadal status was categorised as eugonadal (normal T/LH), secondary (low T, low/normal LH), primary (low T, elevated LH) and compensated (normal T, elevated LH) hypogonadism. Associations of HPT axis hormones with 25(OH)D were examined using linear regression and hypogonadism with vitamin D using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

In univariate analyses, free T levels were lower (P=0.02) and E2and LH levels were higher (P<0.05) in men with vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D <50 nmol/l). 25(OH)D was positively associated with total and free T and negatively with E2and LH in age- and centre-adjusted linear regressions. After adjusting for health and lifestyle factors, no significant associations were observed between 25(OH)D and individual hormones of the HPT axis. However, vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with compensated (relative risk ratio (RRR)=1.52,P=0.03) and secondary hypogonadism (RRR=1.16,P=0.05). Seasonal variation was only observed for 25(OH)D (P<0.001).

Conclusions

Secondary and compensated hypogonadism were associated with vitamin D deficiency and the clinical significance of this relationship warrants further investigation.
A Protosilencer of Subtelomeric Gene Expression in Candida glabrata with Unique Properties
Authors: Juárez-Reyes Alejandro , Ramírez-Zavaleta Candy Y , Medina-Sánchez Luis , De Las Peñas Alejandro , Castaño Irene
Published: November 2011

Adherence to host cells is an important step in the pathogenicity of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida glabrata. This adherence is mediated by some members of the large family of cell wall proteins encoded by the EPA (Epithelial Adhesin) genes present in the C. glabrata genome. The majority of the EPA genes are localized close to different telomeres in C. glabrata, resulting in a negative regulation of transcription of these genes through chromatin-based subtelomeric silencing. In vitro, adherence to epithelial cells is mainly mediated by Epa1, the only member of the EPA family that is expressed in vitro. EPA1 forms a cluster with EPA2 and EPA3 at the subtelomeric region of telomere E-R. EPA2 and EPA3 are subject to silencing that propagates from this telomere in a process that depends on the Sir2, -3, -4, and Rif1 proteins, but surprisingly not on the yKu70 and yKu80 proteins. Here we describe that the yKu70/yKu80-independent silencing of telomere E-R is due to the presence of a cis-acting protosilencer (Sil2126) located between EPA3 and the telomere. This element can silence a reporter gene when placed 31.9 kb away from this telomere, but not when it is removed from the telomere context, or when it is placed near other telomeres, or inverted with respect to the reporter. Importantly, we show that the cis-acting Sil2126 element is required for the yKu70/80-independent silencing of this telomere, underscoring the importance of cis-elements for repressive chromatin formation and spreading on some telomeres in C. glabrata.
Teatro anatômico digital: práticas de representação do corpo na ciência
Authors: Monteiro Marko
Published: November 2011

Investigam-se etnograficamente as práticas de representação do corpo na ciência contemporânea, por meio de uma análise comparativa com o teatro anatômico renascentista, uma prática de conhecimento do corpo nos primórdios da ciência moderna. Busca-se desvendar, sobretudo, de que modo a visualização do interior do corpo atua na produção de conhecimento sobre seu funcionamento. Conclui-se que, contemporaneamente, a produção de saberes privilegia sobremaneira a validação de um código e a modelagem de processos biológicos nos quais se busca intervir. Procura-se, assim, desvendar os sentidos da circulação de imagens, dados e teorias que unem corpos materiais, técnicas de visualização e cientistas, possibilitando, desse modo, a produção de verdades sobre o corpo biológico.
As doenças e as dietas na construção da alteridade entre os integrantes do Exército imperial brasileiro durante a Guerra dos Farrapos
Authors: Ribeiro José Iran
Published: November 2011

Na Guerra dos Farrapos milhares de brasileiros foram convocados para lutar pelo Exército imperial contra os republicanos rio-grandenses. Os dez anos de conflito reuniram no mesmo lugar militares oriundos de diferentes partes do Brasil, o que propiciou a construção de relações de alteridade entre eles. Aglomeravam-se distintos sotaques, experiências e referências, tornando visível a diversidade entre os brasileiros. Tal ambiente estimulou a delimitação de identificações diversas e comuns, entre elas práticas alimentares e incidência de doenças, balizadores para a identificação/diferenciação das origens dos contingentes. Essas questões são analisadas com base na documentação manuscrita produzida cotidianamente pelos administradores do Exército.
Oswaldo Cruz e a controvérsia da sorologia
Authors: Carreta Jorge Augusto
Published: November 2011

A fim de analisar a discussão sobre a eficácia do soro antipestoso produzido pelo Instituto de Manguinhos no começo do século XX, faz-se breve apreciação da atuação de Oswaldo Cruz à frente da Diretoria de Saúde Pública e, em seguida, aborda-se a polêmica propriamente por meio da sua correspondência com Miguel Pereira, Vital Brazil, Chapot Prévost e Francisco Fajardo. Evidencia-se, nessas cartas, o grau de incerteza e experimentação que marcava a bacteriologia no Brasil daquele momento, embora, publicamente, ela se apresentasse como conhecimento seguro e inquestionável. Mostra-se como argumentos de natureza extracientífica interferem no desenvolvimento de pesquisas e na aceitação dos produtos médicos.
O cientificismo das teorias raciais em O cortiço e Canaã
Authors: Tamano Luana Tieko Omena , dos Santos Poliana , Magalhães Gildo , Martins Ana Claudia Aymoré
Published: November 2011

Analisa a introdução das teorias raciais no Brasil e seu acolhimento por intelectuais brasileiros, na virada do século XIX para o XX. Discute a mestiçagem, o racismo e as políticas de branqueamento com base nos romances O cortiço (1890), de Aluísio Azevedo, e Canaã (1902), de Graça Aranha, por considerá-los testemunhas da mentalidade da época. Examina, por meio de análise histórica e literária, como a ficção representa esteticamente o Brasil e o dilema nacional.
A natureza e a cultura no compasso de um naturalista do século XIX: Wallace e a Amazônia
Authors: Alves José Jerônimo de Alencar
Published: November 2011

A percepção de Alfred Russel Wallace sobre a região amazônica, a qual percorreu entre 1848 e 1852, além de ser informada por seus conhecimentos sistemáticos, inclui juízos éticos e estéticos, como era comum entre os naturalistas. Os nativos da região seriam, para ele, pacíficos e hospitaleiros, mas também receptivos aos vícios da civilização. A natureza seria privilegiada, tanto para a atividade de história natural como para o prazer estético. Foram essas características que contribuíram para a permanência do naturalista na região e, portanto, para a realização de suas atividades científicas.
A passagem do humano ao número na construção da toxoplasmose pela lógica das ciências humanas
Authors: Silva Vera Lucia Marques da , Camargo Júnior Kenneth Rochel
Published: November 2011

Este artigo decorre de estudo empírico analítico realizado num laboratório de biologia, para investigar a construção do conhecimento científico no processo de extração do DNA relacionado à toxoplasmose. As etapas dessa construção foram acompanhadas, desde a seleção dos humanos até suas transformações em números. O conceito de referência circulante, de Latour, junto com os utilizados por Hacking para explicar a construção dos objetos da ciência, ideias, marcas e coisas foram fundamentais para a compreensão da passagem dos humanos aos números. Acredita-se que este estudo contribuirá para reduzir a acriticidade quanto à construção dos objetos da ciência. Reitera-se que os números/marcas seriam problemáticos como únicas referências em intervenções na saúde.
El dibujante de límites: Franz Boas y la (im)posibilidad del concepto de cultura en antropología
Authors: Martínez-Hernáez Angel
Published: November 2011

La obra de Franz Boas ha sido analizada en la historia de la antropología de una forma polarizada entre la tendencia a la magnificación y a la minusvaloración. En este artículo se argumenta que las razones de esta indefinición descansan en el carácter liminal de este autor entre dos programas de investigación en antropología: las teorías universalistas (evolucionismo, difusionismo, racialismo etc.) y las teorías culturalistas, que median entre finales del siglo XIX y principios del siglo XX. Con este objetivo se discute el surgimiento del concepto boasiano de cultura intentando mostrar las condiciones de posibilidad e imposibilidad de esta noción a lo largo de la producción de este autor.
Worms, slugs and humans: the medical and popular construction of an emerging infectious disease
Authors: Grisotti Márcia , Avila-Pires Fernando Dias de
Published: November 2011

The identification of the worm Angiostrongylus costaricensis parasitizing land snails and humans in Southern Brazil suggests under-diagnosis and under-notification of patients with abdominal angiostrongyliasis. This article analyzes how the concept of abdominal angiostrongyliasis was constructed in different ways in Costa Rica and Brazil and how these changes affected the understanding of its clinical and epidemiological diagnosis. The research shows that abdominal angiostrongyliasis is, de facto, a sociocultural construct, although the parasites and vectors are real. The analisys also shows the importance of an interdisciplinary approach for understanding disease.
Crack-damage mitigation of RC one-way slabs with a strain-hardening cement-based composite layer
Authors: Yun Hyun-Do , Rokugo Keitetsu , Izuka Takahiro , Lim Sung-Chan
Published: November 2011

This paper describes a method to replace part of the concrete at the tensile bottom of one-way slabs with strain-hardening cement-based composite (SHCC) in order to mitigate cracking and improve the durability of the reinforced concrete (RC) members. Specifically, this paper explores the structural application of an expansive SHCC to mitigate crack damage in RC flexural members. The results of tests on eight simply supported RC slabs are described. The effects of the type of SHCC used and the SHCC layer thickness on the first-crack load, ultimate flexural load, crack width and spacing, and the load–deflection relationship of one-way slabs are investigated. The results indicate that the use of SHCC layers at the bottom of the slabs significantly increases the initial crack load, yield load and ultimate load, and the use of an expansive admixture in the SHCC material significantly affects the initial crack load of one-way slabs with an SHCC layer. Considerable reduction in the crack width and spacing was observed for slabs with an SHCC layer, and this tendency was particularly striking for slabs with an expansive and thick SHCC layer. It is concluded that the application of SHCC layers to RC members may prevent the penetration of aggressive substances into the concrete or reinforcement, and could greatly improve the durability of RC members.
Seismic design of RC beam-column structural elements
Authors: Kotsovos Gerasimos M.
Published: November 2011

The work described extends the range of application of a recently proposed method for designing transverse reinforcement into the earthquake-resistant design of linear reinforced-concrete structural elements. The paper initially provides a concise description of the proposed method which is followed by an experimental verification of its validity based on the results of six tests on slender beam-like reinforced-concrete elements subjected to the combined action of a constant axial force and transverse cyclic loading. Two of the specimens are designed in compliance with the earthquake-resistant design provisions of the current European codes and the remainder in accordance with the proposed method. The work is based on the comparative study of the results obtained.
Materials and energy assessment in Ceequal transport projects
Authors: Ghumra Shamir , Glass Jacqui , Frost Matthew W. , Watkins Miles , Mundy Jo
Published: November 2011

The growing prominence of sustainability assessment and carbon calculators in the transport sector has led to a greater general awareness of the sustainability issues associated with infrastructure projects. Ceequal, the assessment and awards scheme for improving sustainability in civil engineering and public realm projects, is identified as the leading methodology for assessing such projects in the UK. Ceequal evaluates sustainability by asking questions over 12 sections, including material and energy use, which previous research has identified as important topics for transport projects. This paper presents analysis of 24 Ceequal projects which are transport-related. It shows that high scores in the material use category have a high correlation to overall project scores. Conversely scores in the energy usage section appear to show little relation to overall project performance. An evaluation of road projects within those assessed reveal a number of what can be considered core transport topics and other topics that have little impact on the overall Ceequal score. Therefore recommendations are made for the development of Ceequal, including the rationalisation of material and energy question sets. The methodology outlined in this work could also be extended to the remaining ten Ceequal sections to develop a suite of more specific assessment schemes focused on different categories of civil engineering projects.
Practices and motivations of travellers making rail–cycle trips
Authors: Sherwin Henrietta , Parkhurst Graham , Robbins Derek , Walker Ian
Published: November 2011

Currently only 2% of British rail passengers choose to cycle to the station, in contrast to 40% in the Netherlands, but the combination of cycling with rail use presents a potentially attractive alternative to car use with carbon reduction and health-promotion benefits. The present study examined the motivations and behaviours of people who integrate bicycle and rail use, focusing particularly on the provision of station cycle parking as a facilitator. A novel methodology was applied to two intercity stations in Bristol (southwest England) to examine movements within an extensive cycle parking area. Bike–rail integration emerges as a complex set of practices, influenced by a range of factors including, but not limited to, the availability of station cycle parking. It is concluded that bike–rail integration can make a contribution to reducing both carbon emissions and car dependence, but a lack of integration within the rail industry and other agencies is limiting the delivery of policies to enhance the opportunities.
Local and regional climate change research
Authors: Wilford Fiona , Fraser Steven
Published: November 2011

This research delivered findings and recommendations to the Department for Transport on how authorities in England are acting on climate change and monitoring carbon dioxide emissions as part of the delivery of local and regional transport services, as they prepare for their third round of local transport plans. The research investigated the existing goals and public commitments signed up to, and how local and regional partners perceive transport as contributing to these goals; the transport policies and initiatives delivered to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and adapt to climate change; the drivers, challenges and barriers that authorities are facing in tackling carbon dioxide emissions from transport; the tools, guidance and methodologies currently in use to assess the carbon dioxide impact of transport policies; and the coverage, advantages and disadvantages of the monitoring and evaluation methodologies identified. In summary, it was recommended that the Department for Transport should make best use of existing information; improve certain data sources; and consider the creation of a ‘transport carbon tool' for authorities. The research assists in raising awareness of local action on climate change in transport services and further incentivises delivery towards tackling climate change through local transport.
Periodontal Regeneration With Enamel Matrix Derivative in Reconstructive Periodontal Therapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Koop Richard , Merheb Joe , Quirynen Marc
Published: November 2011

Background: Enamel matrix derivative (EMD) is commonly used in periodontal therapy. The aim of this systematic review is to give an updated answer to the question of whether the additional use of EMD in periodontal therapy is more effective compared with a control or other regenerative procedures.

Methods: A literature search in MEDLINE (PubMed) for the use of EMD in periodontal treatment was performed up to May 2010. The use of EMD in treatment of intrabony defects, furcations, and recessions was evaluated. Only randomized controlled trials with ≥1 year of follow‐up were included. The primary outcome variable for intrabony defects was the change in clinical attachment level (CAL), for furcations the change in horizontal furcation depth, and for recession complete root coverage.

Results: After screening, 27 studies (20 for intrabony defects, one for furcation, and six for recession) were eligible for the review. A meta‐analysis was performed for intrabony defects and recession. The treatment of intrabony defects with EMD showed a significant additional gain in CAL of 1.30 mm compared with open‐flap debridement, EDTA, or placebo, but no significant difference compared with resorbable membranes was shown. The use of EMD in combination with a coronally advanced flap compared with a coronally advanced flap alone showed significantly more complete root coverage (odds ratio of 3.5), but compared with a connective tissue graft, the result was not significantly different. The use of EMD in furcations (2.6 ± 1.8 mm) gave significantly more improvement in horizontal defect depth compared with resorbable membranes (1.9 ± 1.4 mm) as shown in one study.

Conclusions: In the treatment of intrabony defects, the use of EMD is superior to control treatments but as effective as resorbable membranes. The additional use of EMD with a coronally advanced flap for recession coverage will give superior results compared with a control but is as effective as a connective tissue graft. The use of EMD in furcations will give more reduction in horizontal furcation defect depth compared with resorbable membranes.
Enamel Matrix Derivative Promotes Superoxide Production and Chemotaxis but Reduces Matrix Metalloproteinase‐8 Expression by Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes
Authors: Karima Mamdouh M. , Van Dyke Thomas E.
Published: November 2011

Background: Polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) is the predominant innate immune cell type activated in acute inflammation. The aim of this study is to determine the impact of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) on superoxide (O2−) generation, chemotaxis, and matrix metalloproteinase‐8 (MMP‐8) secretion by PMN in vitro to better understand the role of EMD in surgical wound healing.

Methods: PMNs were isolated from healthy volunteers (n = 14). O2− generation was measured using a cytochrome c reduction assay. Chemotaxis was measured in a modified Boyden chamber. MMP‐8 secretion was analyzed by Western blotting. A relative density method was used to determine the percentage of MMP‐8 released from the PMNs in relation to the total cellular MMP‐8 content.

Results: O2− generation was significantly elevated when PMNs were stimulated with EMD (200 μg/mL) (P <0.01). Secondary stimulation of PMNs with 1 μM N‐formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine (fMLP) triggered earlier and more sustained O2− generation with EMD. EMD significantly increased PMN chemotactic activity (P <0.05). Combined stimulation with EMD plus fMLP resulted in significantly higher chemotaxis compared to fMLP alone (P <0.05). Conversely, EMD did not induce MMP‐8 secretion from PMNs. MMP‐8 secretion by PMNs in response to fMLP or serum‐opsonized zymosan stimulation was significantly inhibited by EMD (P <0.05).

Conclusions: EMD has specific, differential actions on PMNs that suggest potential for enhancement of wound healing, bacterial and tissue debris clearance (O2− generation and chemotaxis), and suppression of tissue damage and degradation (MMP‐8). Together, the data suggest that EMD enhances wound healing and reduces inflammation.
Effectiveness of Systemic Amoxicillin/Metronidazole as an Adjunctive Therapy to Full‐Mouth Scaling and Root Planing in the Treatment of Aggressive Periodontitis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Sgolastra Fabrizio , Petrucci Ambra , Gatto Roberto , Monaco Annalisa
Published: November 2011

Background: The systemic use of combined amoxicillin and metronidazole (AMX/MET) as an adjunctive treatment to full‐mouth scaling and root planing (FMSRP) has been proposed for the treatment of generalized aggressive periodontitis; however, its effectiveness and clinical safety remain to be defined. The purpose of the present meta‐analysis is to assess the effectiveness of FMSRP + AMX/MET compared to FMSRP alone.

Methods: An electronic search of eight databases and a hand‐search of 10 international dental journals were conducted through September 11, 2011. Gain in clinical attachment level (CAL), reduction in probing depth (PD), secondary outcomes, and adverse events were analyzed. A random‐effect model was used to pool the extracted data. The weighted mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated for continuous outcomes, whereas risk difference (RD) with 95% CI was used for dichotomous data; heterogeneity was assessed with the χ2‐based Cochran Q test and I2 statistic. The level of significance was set at P <0.05.

Results: After the selection process, six randomized clinical trials were included. Results of the meta‐analysis showed significant CAL gain (MD, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.23 to 0.61; P <0.05) and PD reduction (MD, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.39 to 0.77; P <0.05) in favor of FMSRP + AMX/MET; moreover, no significant RD was found in the occurrence of adverse events (RD, 0.01; 95% CI, −0.02 to 0.04; P >0.05).

Conclusion: The findings of the meta‐analysis seem to support the effectiveness and the clinical safety of FMSRP + AMX/MET; however, future studies are needed to confirm these results.
Incentives to Inflate Reported Cash from Operations Using Classification and Timing
Authors: Lee Lian Fen
Published: November 2011

This study examines when firms inflate reported cash from operations in the statement of cash flows (CFO) and the mechanisms through which firms manage CFO. CFO management is distinct from earnings management. Unlike the manipulation of accruals, firms cannot manage CFO with biased estimates, but must resort to classification and timing. I identify four firm characteristics associated with incentives to inflate reported CFO: (1) financial distress, (2) a long-term credit rating near the investment/non-investment grade cutoff, (3) the existence of analyst cash flow forecasts, and (4) higher associations between stock returns and CFO. Results indicate that, even after controlling for the level of earnings, firms upward manage reported CFO when the incentives to do so are particularly high. Specifically, firms manage CFO by shifting items between th estatement of cash flows categories both within and outside the boundaries of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), and by timing certain transactions such as delaying payments to suppliers or accelerating collections from customers.

Data Availability: Data are available from public sources identified in the study.
Does Enhanced Disclosure Really Reduce Agency Costs? Evidence from the Diversion of Corporate Resources
Authors: Huang Pinghsun , Zhang Yan
Published: November 2011

This study investigates whether extensive disclosure reduces managerial expropriation of corporate resources by examining the potential effects of enhanced reporting on the values of cash assets and investment ventures, respectively. We uncover evidence that liquid asset holdings are valued at a discount by firms with fewer disclosure practices than their more transparent counterparts. Moreover, disclosure activity substantially improves the value of cash assets in excess of requirements for operations and investment. These findings suggest that detailed reporting facilitates the scrutiny and discipline of capital markets, thus preventing the diversion of cash reserves. In further support of the disciplinary power of greater disclosure, we find that value-destroying projects, through internal capital investment and external acquisitions, are concentrated in firms adopting opaque disclosure policies. Collectively, our results support the premise that extensive disclosure impairs insiders' abilities to utilize corporate resources in a self-serving manner.

Data Availability: Data are available from public sources indicated in the text..
Accounting for Lease Renewal Options: The Informational Effects of Unit of Account Choices
Authors: Hales Jeffrey W. , Venkataraman Shankar , Wilks T. Jeffrey
Published: November 2011

This study examines the informational effects of unit of account choices in the context of a proposed standard on lease accounting. Standard-setters have tentatively decided that leases in excess of one year should be recognized on a lessee's balance sheet, including optional lease periods, even though the lessee can choose not to renew the lease. We argue that this approach lacks representational faithfulness and creates an informational problem for users. Using an experiment, we show that the proposed treatment of renewal options has a negative effect on lenders' willingness to lend to a firm with renewal options. However, we also show that disaggregating the capitalized optional renewal periods from the fixed-term lease obligation mitigates some of the negative effects of the proposed approach, particularly when disaggregation occurs on the face of the financial statements. These results should be of interest to standard-setters as they deliberate changes to lease accounting and when considering the trade-offs that can arise with expansive unit of account choices.

Data Availability: The experimental data are available for purposes of replication. Please contact the authors..
Asset Securitizations and Credit Risk
Authors: Barth Mary E. , Ormazabal Gaizka , Taylor Daniel J.
Published: November 2011

This study examines the sources of credit risk associated with asset securitizations and whether credit-rating agencies and the bond market differ in their assessment of this risk. Measuring credit risk using credit ratings, we find the securitizing firm's credit risk is positively related to the firm's retained interest in the securitized assets and unrelated to the portion of the securitized assets not retained by the firm. Measuring credit risk using bond spreads, we find the securitizing firm's credit risk is positively related to both the firm's retained interest in the assets and the portion of the securitized assets not retained by the firm. Additionally, our findings indicate the bond market does not distinguish between the retained and non-retained portions of the securitized assets when assessing the credit risk of the securitizing firm. These different assessments of sources of credit risk associated with asset securitizations provide insight into ongoing controversies surrounding the financial reporting for asset securitizations and the efficacy of credit ratings.
Using Online Video to Announce a Restatement: Influences on Investment Decisions and the Mediating Role of Trust
Authors: Elliott W. Brooke , Hodge Frank D. , Sedor Lisa M.
Published: November 2011

Press releases accompanying earnings restatements attempt to minimize negative reactions by explaining the reasons for the restatement. Although text-based press releases have been the norm for years, firms have recently begun using online video for such announcements. We examine the implications of doing so, and find that when a CEO accepts responsibility by making an internal attribution for a restatement, investors viewing the announcement online via video recommend larger investments in the firm than do investors viewing the announcement online via text. In contrast, when the CEO denies responsibility by making an external attribution for the restatement, investors viewing the announcement online via video recommend smaller investments in the firm than do investors viewing the announcement online via text. Our results also reveal that investor trust mediates the effect of disclosure venue and attribution on investment recommendations. These findings are important given the economic significance and trust-damaging implications of restatements, as well as the increased use of online video to make important announcements.

Data Availability: Contact the authors for data and video.
Can Reporting Norms Create a Safe Harbor? Jury Verdicts against Auditors under Precise and Imprecise Accounting Standards
Authors: Kadous Kathryn , Mercer Molly
Published: November 2011

We conduct an experiment with 749 mock jurors to examine whether juries evaluate auditors differently under precise versus imprecise standards when the client reporting is held constant. We find that the impact of standard precision on jury verdicts depends on the aggressiveness of the audit client's financial reports and on the industry reporting norm. When the client's reporting is more aggressive and violates the precise standard, juries return fewer verdicts against auditors under the imprecise standard, especially when the reporting complies with the industry norm. When the client's reporting is less aggressive and complies with the precise standard, juries return more verdicts against auditors under the imprecise standard, but only when the client's reporting is more aggressive than the industry norm. Compliance with industry reporting norms appears to provide auditors with safe harbor protection from negligence verdicts when accounting standards are imprecise.
The Role of Stock Liquidity in Executive Compensation
Authors: Jayaraman Sudarshan , Milbourn Todd T.
Published: November 2011

We explore the role of stock liquidity in influencing the composition of CEO annual pay and the sensitivity of managerial wealth to stock prices. We find that as stock liquidity goes up, the proportion of equity-based compensation in total compensation increases while the proportion of cash-based compensation declines. Further, the CEO's pay-for-performance sensitivity with respect to stock prices is increasing in the liquidity of the stock. Our main findings are supported by additional tests based on shocks to stock liquidity and two-stage least squares specifications that mitigate endogeneity concerns. Our results are consistent with optimal contracting theories and contribute to the ongoing debate about the increasing trend of both equity-based over cash-based compensation and the sensitivity of total CEO wealth to stock prices rather than earnings.

Data Availability: Data used for this study are derived from publicly available sources.