bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between Left Ventricular Global and Regional Longitudinal Systolic Strain and Impaired Microcirculation in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Løgstrup Brian B. , Høfsten Dan E. , Christophersen Thomas B. , Møller Jacob E. , Bøtker Hans E. , Pellikka Patricia A. , Egstrup Kenneth
Published: August 2012

Objectives: We investigated the correlation between left ventricular global and regional longitudinal systolic strain (GLS and LRS) and coronary flow reserve (CFR) assessed by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in patients with a recent acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Furthermore, we investigated if LRS and GLS imaging is superior to conventional measures of left ventricle (LV) function. Methods: In a consecutive population of first time AMI patients, who underwent successful revascularization, we performed comprehensive TTE. GLS and LRS were obtained from the three standard apical views. Assessment of CFR by TTE was performed in a modified apical view using color Doppler guidance. Results: The study population consisted of 183 patients (51 females) with a median age of 63 [54;70] years. Eighty‐nine (49%) patients had a non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction and 94 (51%) patients had a ST elevation myocardial infarction. The GLS was −15.2 [−19.3;−10.1]% in the total population of 183 patients. Total wall motion score index (WMSI) in the population was 1.19 [1;1.5]. Eighty‐five patients suffered from culprit lesion in left anterior descending artery (LAD). The CFR in these patients was 1.86 [1.36;2.35] and the GLS was −14.3 [−18.9; −9.8]%. A significant difference was observed in the LRS in LAD territory in culprit LAD infarction patients with a CFR ≤ 2 (−9.6 [−13.77;−6.44]) compared with the LRS in LAD territory in culprit LAD infarction patients with a CFR > 2 (−19.33 [−21.1;−16.5]), P < 0.0001. We found no significant difference between WMSI in LAD territory in culprit LAD infarction patients with a CFR ≤ 2 (1.56 [1.06;2.23]) compared with WMSI in LAD territory in culprit LAD infarction patients with a CFR > 2 (1.37 [1.03;2.11]); P = 0.18. The same pattern was observed in both circumflex coronary artery (CX) and right coronary artery (RCA) territories. In the total population, we found a strong correlation between CFR and GLS (r = −0.85, P < 0.0001). This was also seen in the multivariate regression model adjusting for possible confounders including WMSI (P < 0.001). Conclusion: In this study, we have shown a close association between myocardial deformation in patients with a recent AMI and the degree of diminished microcirculation. We found that both GLS and LRS correlated with CFR. We conclude that GLS and LRS are significantly better tools to assess impaired CFR and LV function after a recent AMI, than conventional echocardiographic measurements.
Regional Heterogeneity of Systolic Dysfunction Is Associated with Ventricular Dyssynchrony in Patients with Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Narrow QRS Complex
Authors: Matsumoto Kensuke , Tanaka Hidekazu , Tatsumi Kazuhiro , Kaneko Akihiro , Tsuji Takayuki , Ryo Keiko , Kawai Hiroya , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: August 2012

Background: Regional heterogeneity of left ventricular (LV) contraction, known as dyssynergy, in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDC) patients has been previously reported, but no comprehensive analysis of this abnormality has been made. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that regional heterogeneity of systolic dysfunction is associated with LV dyssynchrony in IDC patients with a narrow QRS complex using novel three‐dimensional (3D) speckle‐tracking strain. Methods: We studied 54 consecutive IDC patients with ejection fraction (EF) of 34 ± 12% and QRS duration of 102 ± 13 msec (all <120 msec), and 30 age‐matched normal controls. The 3D speckle‐tracking LV dyssynchrony (LV dyssynchrony index) was quantified from all 16 LV sites to determine the standard deviation (SD) of time‐to‐peak strain. Similarly, regional heterogeneity of LV systolic function (LV dyssynergy index) was quantified from all 16 LV sites to establish the SD of peak 3D speckle‐tracking strain. Results: The LV dyssynergy and dyssynchrony indices of IDC patients were significantly larger than those of normal controls. Furthermore, IDC patients showed significantly higher Z‐scores for septum and inferior regions than for the free wall (3.34 ± 1.21 vs. 1.69 ± 1.06 and 2.79 ± 1.30 vs. 1.69 ± 1.06, respectively, P < 0.001). An important findings of multivariable analysis was that the LV dyssynergy index (β = 0.69, P < 0.001) and LVEF (β = −0.34, P = 0.001) were independent determinants of the LV dyssynchrony index. Conclusion: 3D speckle‐tracking strain revealed that the myocardial systolic dysfunction of IDC patients with a narrow QRS complex has a marked heterogeneous regional distribution. This regional heterogeneity as well as systolic dysfunction is thought to lead to LV dyssynchrony.
Arterial Anatomic Variations and Its Influence on Transradial Coronary Procedural Outcome
Authors: NORGAZ TUGRUL , GORGULU SEVKET , DAGDELEN SINAN
Published: August 2012

Objectives:
Our aim was to establish the frequency of arterial anatomic variations and its relation to coronary procedural outcome in patients undergoing a first transradial coronary procedure.

Methods:
This was a single center prospective study. A total of 1,446 consecutive patients undergoing their first transradial coronary procedure were recruited. Retrograde radial arteriography was performed to define radial artery anatomy. If the operator encountered serious problems during crossing the subclavian‐aortic truncus, retrograde subclavian arteriography was also performed. Patient demographics; procedural data such as: total procedural duration, the number of catheters and guidewires used, the amount of contrast media usage, dose area product (DAP), and fluoroscopy time; and vascular complications were recorded.

Results:
Anatomic variations were noted in 270 patients (18.6%), and these patients were significantly older (mean age 64.4 ± 10.4 vs. 59.2 ± 10.8 years, P < 0.001) and more commonly female (46% vs. 33%, P < 0.001) with significantly higher procedural failure rates (8.8% vs. 5.6%, P = 0.006). In addition, procedural duration (P < 0.001) and fluoroscopy time (P < 0.001) were statistically longer in patients with anatomic variations. Anatomic variations also had an adverse impact on the amount of contrast agent usage (63.9 ± 28.3 mL vs. 59.1 ± 25.3 mL, P = 0.006) and minor vascular complication rate (P = 0.007).

Conclusions:
This study indicates that anatomic variation of the arterial path has an adverse impact on transradial coronary procedural outcome. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:418–424)
Developing a New Hybrid Revascularization Program: A Road Map for Hospital Managers and Physician Leaders
Authors: HARJAI KISHORE J. , SAMY SANJAY , PENNYPACKER BARBARA , ONOFRE BONNIE , STANFIELD PAMELA , YAEGER LYNNE , STAPLETON DWIGHT , ESRIG BARRY C.
Published: August 2012

Hybrid coronary revascularization, which involves minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass surgery using the left internal mammary artery to left anterior descending and percutaneous coronary intervention using drug‐eluting stents for the remaining diseased coronary vessels, is an innovative approach to decrease the morbidity of conventional surgery. Little information is available to guide hospital managers and physician leaders in implementing a hybrid revascularization program. In this article, we describe the people‐process‐technology issues that managers and leaders are likely to encounter as they develop a hybrid revascularization program in their practice. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:557–564)
Statistical Network Analysis for Analyzing Policy Networks
Authors: Robins Garry , Lewis Jenny M. , Wang Peng
Published: August 2012

To analyze social network data using standard statistical approaches is to risk incorrect inference. The dependencies among observations implied in a network conceptualization undermine standard assumptions of the usual general linear models. One of the most quickly expanding areas of social and policy network methodology is the development of statistical modeling approaches that can accommodate such dependent data. In this article, we review three network statistical methods commonly used in the current literature: quadratic assignment procedures, exponential random graph models (ERGMs), and stochastic actor‐oriented models. We focus most attention on ERGMs by providing an illustrative example of a model for a strategic information network within a local government. We draw inferences about the structural role played by individuals recognized as key innovators and conclude that such an approach has much to offer in analyzing the policy process.
Micro‐Level Interpretation of Exponential Random Graph Models with Application to Estuary Networks
Authors: Desmarais Bruce A. , Cranmer Skyler J.
Published: August 2012

The exponential random graph model (ERGM) is an increasingly popular method for the statistical analysis of networks that can be used to flexibly analyze the processes by which policy actors organize into a network. Often times, interpretation of ERGM results is conducted at the network level, such that effects are related to overall frequencies of network structures (e.g., the number of closed triangles in a network). This limits the utility of the ERGM because there is often interest, particularly in political and policy sciences, in network dynamics at the actor or relationship levels. Micro‐level interpretation of the ERGM has been employed in varied applications in sociology and statistics. We present a comprehensive framework for interpretation of the ERGM at all levels of analysis, which casts network formation as block‐wise updating of a network. These blocks can represent, for example, each potential link, each dyad, the out‐ or in‐going ties of each actor, or the entire network. We contrast this interpretive framework with the stochastic actor‐based model (SABM) of network dynamics. We present the theoretical differences between the ERGM and the SABM and introduce an approach to comparing the models when theory is not sufficiently strong to make the selection a priori. The alternative models we discuss and the interpretation methods we propose are illustrated on previously published data on estuary policy and governance networks.
Interorganizational Collaboration Networks in Economic Development Policy: An Exponential Random Graph Model Analysis*
Authors: Lee Youngmi , Lee In Won , Feiock Richard C.
Published: August 2012

Regional economic development competition can be inefficient and destructive because decisions by one governmental unit can impose both externalities on its neighbors. Collaborative networks of multiple stakeholders within and across jurisdictions are an increasingly crucial component of regional economic development. In this article, we focus on the emergence of voluntary and self‐organizing network relationships among local governments to address economic development concerns. The motivations and decisions of local actors play a critical role in shaping and implementing regional collaboration. On a micro level, the collaboration choices are shaped by three primary factors: the transaction costs reflected in the configuration of relationships in which an actor is embedded; the organizational similarities (homophily); and the resource dependencies that shape the local actors' preferences for forming relationships with other specific actors. We utilize an exponential random graph model (ERGM) to test hypotheses regarding the most prominent observed patterns of network relationships within and across different organizational sectors. The results demonstrate that both reciprocity and social clustering structures are preferred by both government and nongovernment organizations. These results suggest that interorganizational collaboration for economic development requires more than simple exchange relationships. Rather, network actors may be better served by participating in a densely clustered network that is capable of maintaining credible commitments to collective solutions.
Thermodynamics of Nanoscale Lead Titanate and Barium Titanate Perovskites
Authors: Costa Gustavo C. C. , Saradhi Maram Pardha , Navrotsky Alexandra
Published: August 2012

To explore the surface properties of perovskites with ions of different bond character, the surface and interface enthalpies of nanocrystalline
PbTiO

3 and
BaTiO

3 perovskites were determined for the first time by a combination of calorimetric, morphological, and structural analyses.
PbTiO

3 and
BaTiO

3 nanocrystalline samples of varying surface areas and degrees of agglomeration were synthesized by solvothermal and hydrothermal methods, respectively. All synthesized samples were characterized using X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. Interface areas were estimated by comparing the surface areas measured by
N

2 adsorption to the crystallite sizes refined from X‐ray diffraction data. The integrated heats of water vapor adsorption on the surfaces of the nanocrystalline phases are −62 ± 4 kJ/mol for
PbTiO

3, which is less exothermic than the value −72 ± 9 kJ/mol for the isostructural
BaTiO

3, both phases having the same chemisorbed water coverage. Similar behavior is observed for the surface and interface enthalpies. The energies of the hydrous and anhydrous surfaces are 1.97 ± 0.67 J/m2 and 1.11 ± 0.23 J/m2 for
PbTiO

3, and 3.69 ± 0.22 J/m2 and 3.99 ± 0.28 J/m2 for
BaTiO

3, respectively. The interface energies of the hydrous and anhydrous surfaces are 0.55 ± 0.74 J/m2 and 0.73 ± 0.27 J/m2 for
PbTiO

3, and 1.11 ± 0.13 J/m2 for
BaTiO

3. These observations suggest that
PbTiO

3 has lower surface energy and lower affinity for water adsorption on the surface than
BaTiO

3 and that surface energy and hydrophilicity of the surface decrease with increasing covalent character of the ions, as was seen previously in comparing
TiO

2 and
SnO

2.
Towards a roadmap in brain protection and recovery
Authors: Muresanu Dafin F. , Buzoianu Anca , Florian Stefan I. , von Wild Tobias
Published: August 2012

This article briefly reviews some of the mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases, i.e. damage mechanisms (DM), and their interactions and overlap with protection and reparatory processes (i.e. endogenous defence activities). A relationship between DM and endogenous defence activity (EDA) regarding therapy principles will also be described. Currently, it is difficult to find the correct therapeutic approach for brain protection and recovery, especially because we do not fully understand all of the endogenous neurobiological processes, the complete nature of the pathophysiological mechanisms and the links between these two categories. Moreover, we continue to use a simplistic and reductionist approach in this respect. Endogenous neurobiological processes, such as neurotrophicity, neuroprotection, neuroplasticity and neurogenesis, are central to protection and recovery and represent the background of EDA. The biological reality of the nervous system is far more complex. In fact, there is an endogenous holistic process of neuroprotection and neurorecovery that should be approached therapeutically in an integrated way. The current tendency to exclusively frame drug activity in terms of single mechanisms and single focus effect might distract from other paradigms with greater explanatory power and hinder the development of more effective treatment strategies. A change of concept is required in pharmacological brain protection and recovery. Prospective considerations include an integrated pharmacological approach, focusing on drugs with multimodal activity and pleiotropic neuroprotective effect which are biological drugs, rather than single mechanism drugs, which usually are chemical drugs.
Murine spleen contains a diversity of myeloid and dendritic cells distinct in antigen presenting function
Authors: Hey Ying Y. , O'Neill Helen C.
Published: August 2012

The spleen contains multiple subsets of myeloid and dendritic cells (DC). DC are important antigen presenting cells (APC) which induce and control the adaptive immune response. They are cells specialized for antigen capture, processing and presentation to naïve T cells. However, DC are a heterogeneous population and each subset differs subtly in phenotype, function and location. Similarly, myeloid cell subsets can be distinguished which can also play an important role in the regulation of immunity. This review aims to characterize splenic subsets of DC and myeloid cells to better understand their individual roles in the immune response.
Maternal cell‐free messenger RNA in twin pregnancies: the effects of chorionicity and severe twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)
Authors: FOX CAROLINE E. , SEKIZAWA AKIHIKO , PRETLOVE SAMANTHA J. , CHAN BEN C. , OKAI TAKASHI , KILBY MARK D.
Published: August 2012

Objective. To investigate the effects of chorionicity and severe twin to twin transfusion (TTTS) on maternal circulating cell‐free messenger RNA (cf‐mRNA). Design. Prospective cohort study. Setting. A UK tertiary referral Fetal Medicine Center. Population. All monochorionic (MC) twins complicated by severe TTTS (n= 23) and a cohort of uncomplicated dichorionic (DC) (n= 10) and MC (n= 7) pregnancies, between October 2006 and December 2007. Methods. Maternal cf‐mRNA encoding glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1(VEGFR‐1(Flt‐1)), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A), Endoglin, placental growth factor (PlGF), tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin‐like and EGF‐like domains 1 (Tie‐1), angiopoietin 1 (Ang‐1) and angiopoietin 2 (Ang‐2) were measured by a quantitative two‐step real‐time PCR assay after extraction from maternal plasma. Results. The amounts of cf‐mRNA detectable are reported for uncomplicated DC, MC and TTTS pregnancies, respectively: GAPDH – 80, 100 and 96%; VEGFR‐1 – 10, 0 and 26%; VEGF‐A‐ 80, 71 and 96%; Endoglin–70, 71 and 91%; PlGF–70, 57, 26%; Tie‐1 0, 43, 0%; Ang‐1 71, 50 and 60% and Ang‐2 83, 50 and 89%. There was a significant difference in VEGF‐A (medians DC –337.3, MC – 390.8, TTTS – 618.6 copies/mL plasma p= 0.024), Endoglin (medians DC‐14.49, MC‐1171, TTTS – 2896 copies/mL plasma p= 0.027) and Ang‐2 (medians DC‐13.66, MC‐8.49, TTTS 44.80 copies/mL plasma p= 0.007). Conclusion. Maternal cf‐mRNA could be reliably detected for GAPDH, PlGF, VEGF‐A, Endoglin, Ang‐1 and Ang‐2 in twin pregnancies and a significant difference was demonstrated in VEGF‐A, Endoglin and Ang‐2 between uncomplicated twins and MC twin pregnancies complicated by TTTS. If such alterations in maternal cf‐mRNA precede the onset of clinically apparent disease, this may be used as an adjuvant blood test to complement ultrasound screening.
Three dimensional quantification of mandibular bone remodeling using standard tessellation language registration based superimposition
Authors: Ahmad Rohana , Abu‐Hassan Mohamed I. , Li Qing , Swain Michael V.
Published: August 2012

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate a new method to quantify longitudinal mandibular bone remodeling three‐dimensionally by superimposition of cone beam computed tomography images.

Materials and Methods

This method is used to quantify the treatment effects of implant‐retained overdentures in 20 patients aged 52–79 at recruitment after 1 and 2 years post treatment. Three dimensional models of pre‐ and post‐treatment were reconstructed for each patient and superimposed using Standard Tessellation Language registration method and segmentation.

Results

Color maps of the differences generated by superimposition allow detailed examination and quantification of the progressive dimensional changes of bone in a three‐dimensional manner and enable the visualization of the apical displacement and thinning of the cortical layer of bone underneath the denture base. Most of the remodeling changes took place during the first year with a mean decrease in volume of 3.7% (SD = 4.4%; range = +3.7% to −15.9%, median = −3.7%). This remodeling pattern continued during the second year, but at a reduced rate of 2.5% per year (SD = 4.2%; range = +2.1% to −11.3%, median = −3.9%).

Conclusion

Standard Tessellation Language registration based superimposition of cone beam computed tomography images may be considered an objective and reproducible method to three‐dimensionally quantify mandibular bone remodeling.
Allergic contact dermatitis caused by sodium metabisulfite: a challenging allergen. A case series and literature review
Authors: García‐Gavín Juan , Parente Joana , Goossens An
Published: August 2012

Background. Sulfites, preservatives and antioxidants used in the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industry are contact allergens whose relevance seems to be difficult to establish.

Objectives. To perform a retrospective study on patients patch tested with a sulfite.

Materials and methods. Between 1990 and 2010, 2763 patients were patch tested with sodium metabisulfite. The reactions were considered to be relevant if there was a clear relationship between the dermatitis and sulfite exposure.

Results. One hundred and twenty‐four (4.5%) of 2763 patients patch tested positively to sodium metabisulfite. The most frequent localizations of the lesions were the face (40.3%) and the hands (24.2%). Six patients also reported systemic symptoms. Thirteen cases (10.5%) were occupational, 10 of them presenting with hand eczema. Sodium metabisulfite was the single allergen found in 76 cases (61.3%). The reactions were considered to be relevant in 80 cases (64.5%), of which 11 were occupational.

Conclusions. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by sulfites is frequent and often relevant. One should be aware of possible relevant sources of exposure, particularly in occupational settings such as hairdressing and the food industry, and in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. Patch testing with sodium metabisulfite, which seems to be the best indicator for sulfite contact allergy, is also useful in cases of immediate reactions to sulfite‐containing products.
Early and late studies of EMD use in periodontal intrabony defects
Authors: Mueller V. T. , Welch K. , Bratu D. C. , Wang H‐L.
Published: August 2012

Background and Objective:  The clinical efficacy of EMDs for the treatment of periodontal infrabony defects has been reported. However, recent publications have questioned the validity of results from early findings. Hence, the purpose of this study was to compare the results obtained from early and late studies when EMD was used as an adjunct in treating human intrabony defects during flap surgery. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate the validity of results published from early studies compared with those published from later studies.

Material and Methods:  PubMed and MEDLINE searches were performed. The evaluation period was 1997–2010 and it was divided into two groups of equal periods of time: early studies (1997–2003) and late studies (2004–2010). The clinical parameters assessed were clinical attachment level (CAL), probing pocket depth and bone gain (BG; measured as a percentage or in mm).

Results:  No statistically significant difference was found between the results obtained from early studies (1997–2003) and late studies (2004–2010) with regards to CAL gain, probing pocket depth reduction and BG. Nonetheless, both study periods showed a benefit for using EMD to treat periodontal infrabony defects when compared with the groups without EMD during open flap surgery.

Conclusions:  The results obtained from this study failed to show any potential differences between the results published from early studies and late studies with regards to the clinical effectiveness of EMD in treating periodontal infrabony defects.
Mapping of Epitopes Relevant for Induction of Acrosome Reaction on Human Zona Pellucida Glycoprotein‐4 Using Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Xu Wan‐Xiang , Bhandari Beena , He Ya‐Ping , Tang Hai‐Ping , Chaudhary Sanchita , Talwar Pankaj , Gupta Satish K. , Wang Jian
Published: August 2012

Problem

To decipher structural and functional aspects of human zona pellucida glycoprotein‐4 (ZP4), the epitopes recognized by monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) have been mapped.

Method of study

Recombinant human ZP4‐mediated induction of acrosome reaction in human sperm was studied in the absence and presence of ZP4‐specific MAbs. The epitopes of MAbs were mapped using recombinant peptides expressed in Escherichia coli.

Results

Monoclonal antibodies (MA‐1662, MA‐1671) against human ZP4 showed specific binding to ZP matrix of human eggs in an indirect immunofluorescence assay. Both the antibodies showed significant (P < 0.05) inhibition in the baculovirus‐expressed recombinant ZP4‐mediated acrosome reaction. MA‐1671 recognized N‐terminal fragment of ZP4 and minimal epitope mapped to amino acid residues 126–130 (PARDR), whereas MA‐1662 reacted to C‐terminal fragment and minimal epitope mapped to amino acid residues 256–260 (ENELV).

Conclusions

The epitopes corresponding to both N‐ and C‐terminal parts of human ZP4 may be relevant for its biological activity.
Mapping the interaction between the cytoplasmic domains of HIV‐1 viral protein U and human CD4 with NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Singh Sameer K. , Möckel Luis , Thiagarajan‐Rosenkranz Pallavi , Wittlich Marc , Willbold Dieter , Koenig Bernd W.
Published: August 2012

Viral protein U (VpU) of HIV‐1 plays an important role in downregulation of the main HIV‐1 receptor CD4 from the surface of infected cells. Physical binding of VpU to newly synthesized CD4 in the endoplasmic reticulum is an early step in a pathway leading to proteasomal degradation of CD4. In this study, regions in the cytoplasmic domain of VpU involved in CD4 binding were identified by NMR spectroscopy. Amino acids in both helices found in the cytoplasmic region of VpU in membrane‐mimicking detergent micelles experience chemical shift perturbations upon binding to CD4, whereas amino acids between the two helices and at the C‐terminus of VpU show no or only small changes, respectively. The topology of the complex was further studied with paramagnetic relaxation enhancement. Paramagnetic spin labels were attached at three sequence positions of a CD4 peptide comprising the transmembrane and cytosolic domains of the receptor. VpU binds to a membrane‐proximal region in the cytoplasmic domain of CD4.

Structured digital abstract

VpU and CD4 bind by nuclear magnetic resonance (View interaction)
A Multivariate Twin Study of Female Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Burri Andrea , Greven Corina , Leupin Myriam , Spector Timothy , Rahman Qazi
Published: August 2012

Introduction

There is little work on the etiology of female sexual dysfunction (FSD), a highly contentious and heterogeneous disorder from classification and clinical perspectives. Clarifying causative mechanisms may enhance current psychiatric nosology.

Aim

To elucidate the structure of genetic and environmental risk factors underlying the major subtypes of FSD.

Methods

Self-report questionnaires and multivariate twin model fitting on a population-based adult twin register (TwinsUK, London) including 1,489 female twins aged 18 to 85, comprising 244 MZ pairs, 189 DZ pairs, and 623 women whose co-twins did not participate.

Main Outcome Measures

Scores on the Female Sexual Function Index–Lifelong and its six dimensions (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain) were subject to univariate and multivariate variance component analysis.

Results

The best-fitting multivariate model was an ACE Cholesky model, in which both additive genetic effects and non-shared environmental effects loaded on four FSD dimensions. There was significant genetic sharing between desire, arousal, lubrication and orgasm, but there was also significant genetic sharing between arousal, lubrication and orgasm independent of desire. These genetic loadings were small to modest effects (7% to 33%). Bivariate heritabilities suggested that a third of the covariance between these dimensions was genetic. Desire shared the least amount of genetic association with lubrication and orgasm. Non-shared environmental effects (which were stronger than genetic effects) were somewhat more dimension-specific.

Conclusions

FSD is not etiologically homogeneous. There are at least two genetic factors to FSD symptomatology, and a tendency for more dimension-specific non-shared environmental factors as a more important indicative of unique factors involved in specific types of sexual problems reported by women. These results emphasize genetic factors as possible organizing principles for an etiologically based classification approach of FSD.
CEO Servant Leadership: Exploring Executive Characteristics and Firm Performance
Authors: Peterson Suzanne J. , Galvin Benjamin M. , Lange Donald
Published: August 2012

This study offers an examination of the relationships between chief executive officer (CEO) servant leadership, the executive characteristics of narcissism, founder status, and organizational identification, and firm performance in a sample of 126 CEOs in technology organizations. Analysis of data gathered over multiple periods revealed a negative relationship between CEO narcissism and servant leadership, and a positive relationship between founder status (i.e., founder or nonfounder) and servant leadership. Furthermore, CEO organizational identification served as a partial mediating mechanism linking narcissism and founder status to servant leadership. In turn, CEO servant leadership predicted subsequent firm performance (measured as return on assets). The results of this study have implications for researchers interested in better understanding the predictors and consequences of servant leadership and for practitioners concerned with combating negative or selfish executive leadership behaviors and employing servant leadership for the organization's benefit.
Recruiting Through the Stages: A Meta‐Analytic Test of Predictors of Applicant Attraction at Different Stages of the Recruiting Process
Authors: Uggerslev Krista L. , Fassina Neil E. , Kraichy David
Published: August 2012

We used meta‐analysis and semipartial correlations to examine the relative strength and incremental variance accounted for by 7 categories of recruiting predictors across multiple recruitment stages on applicant attraction. Based on 232 studies (250 samples, 3,518 coefficients, n= 108,632), we found that characteristics of the job, organization, and recruitment process, recruiter behaviors, perceived fit, and hiring expectancies (but not perceived alternatives) accounted for unique variance in applicant attraction at multiple stages. Perceived fit was the strongest relative and unique variance predictor of applicant attraction albeit a nonsignificant predictor of job choice. Although not among the largest zero‐order predictors, recruiter behaviors accounted for substantial incremental variance at the first 2 stages. Organizational characteristics are more heavily weighed by applicants when maintaining applicant status as compared to the stage of application, and recruitment process characteristics are weighed progressively more as the recruitment stages advance. Job characteristics accounted for the greatest unique variance in job choice decisions. Job characteristics are more predictive in field studies, whereas recruiter behaviors, recruitment process characteristics, hiring expectancies, and perceived alternatives produced larger effect sizes in the laboratory. Results are discussed in terms of their theoretical and practical implications with future research suggestions.
Grape phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae) – a review of potential detection and alternative management options
Authors: Benheim D. , Rochfort S. , Robertson E. , Potter I.D. , Powell K.S.
Published: August 2012

The management options for grape phylloxera, Daktulosphaira vitifoliae, a monophagous insect pest of Vitis species are reviewed. Although in a worldwide context, grape phylloxera is managed predominantly by the use of resistant rootstocks developed through conventional breeding of hybrid crosses of American Vitis species, this management aspect is largely excluded from the review so that emerging technologies in the field of detection, quarantine and alternative management are discussed. In some viticulture regions of the world, where grape phylloxera's geographic distribution is limited (e.g. Australia), the pest is managed through a combination of surveillance, detection and quarantine. Although some alternative management options for grape phylloxera exist they have received relatively limited research attention because of the relative success of resistant rootstocks. The resilience of resistant rootstocks as the primary management option could also be challenged in the future by host‐plant interactions with diverse grape phylloxera clonal lineages and by potential impacts of climate change on both grapevine and grape phylloxera distribution. A range of control options exist which could be integrated into an improved management system for grape phylloxera. Priority areas for future evaluation and further development include early detection techniques, investigation into the use of biological control agents and development of an integrated approach to grapevine phylloxera management.
Deforestation and Reforestation of Latin America and the Caribbean (2001–2010)
Authors: Aide T. Mitchell , Clark Matthew L. , Grau H. Ricardo , López‐Carr David , Levy Marc A. , Redo Daniel , Bonilla‐Moheno Martha , Riner George , Andrade‐Núñez María J. , Muñiz María
Published: August 2012

Forest cover change directly affects biodiversity, the global carbon budget, and ecosystem function. Within Latin American and the Caribbean region (LAC), many studies have documented extensive deforestation, but there are also many local studies reporting forest recovery. These contrasting dynamics have been largely attributed to demographic and socio‐economic change. For example, local population change due to migration can stimulate forest recovery, while the increasing global demand for food can drive agriculture expansion. However, as no analysis has simultaneously evaluated deforestation and reforestation from the municipal to continental scale, we lack a comprehensive assessment of the spatial distribution of these processes. We overcame this limitation by producing wall‐to‐wall, annual maps of change in woody vegetation and other land‐cover classes between 2001 and 2010 for each of the 16,050 municipalities in LAC, and we used nonparametric Random Forest regression analyses to determine which environmental or population variables best explained the variation in woody vegetation change. Woody vegetation change was dominated by deforestation (−541,835 km2), particularly in the moist forest, dry forest, and savannas/shrublands biomes in South America. Extensive areas also recovered woody vegetation (+362,430 km2), particularly in regions too dry or too steep for modern agriculture. Deforestation in moist forests tended to occur in lowland areas with low population density, but woody cover change was not related to municipality‐scale population change. These results emphasize the importance of quantitating deforestation and reforestation at multiple spatial scales and linking these changes with global drivers such as the global demand for food.
Genome‐wide Transcription Factor Gene Prediction and their Expressional Tissue‐Specificities in MaizeF
Authors: Jiang Yi , Zeng Biao , Zhao Hainan , Zhang Mei , Xie Shaojun , Lai Jinsheng
Published: August 2012

Transcription factors (TFs) are important regulators of gene expression. To better understand TF‐encoding genes in maize (Zea mays L.), a genome‐wide TF prediction was performed using the updated B73 reference genome. A total of 2 298 TF genes were identified, which can be classified into 56 families. The largest family, known as the MYB superfamily, comprises 322 MYB and MYB‐related TF genes. The expression patterns of 2 014 (87.64%) TF genes were examined using RNA‐seq data, which resulted in the identification of a subset of TFs that are specifically expressed in particular tissues (including root, shoot, leaf, ear, tassel and kernel). Similarly, 98 kernel‐specific TF genes were further analyzed, and it was observed that 29 of the kernel‐specific genes were preferentially expressed in the early kernel developmental stage, while 69 of the genes were expressed in the late kernel developmental stage. Identification of these TFs, particularly the tissue‐specific ones, provides important information for the understanding of development and transcriptional regulation of maize.
Retracted: Diversity of ants across an altitudinal gradient in and outside a spruce forest in the Harz Mountains, Germany
Authors: Srour Marc , Demolin Leite Germano Leão , Wappler Torsten , Tscharntke Teja , Scherber Christoph
Published: August 2012

Retraction: The following article from Insect Science, ‘Diversity of ants across an altitudinal gradient in and outside a spruce forest in the Harz Mountains, Germany’ by Marc Srour, Germano Leão Demolin Leite, Torsten Wappler, Teja Tscharntke and Christoph Scherber, published online on 2 August 2012 in Wiley Online Library (http://wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor in Chief, Le Kang, and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd. The retraction has been agreed due to concerns having been raised about the validity of the species richness values derived by the authors, and regarding the validity of the species determinations.
Application of Cydia pomonella expressed sequence tags: Identification and expression of three general odorant binding proteins in codling moth
Authors: Garczynski Stephen F. , Coates Brad S. , Unruh Thomas R. , Schaeffer Scott , Jiwan Derick , Koepke Tyson , Dhingra Amit
Published: August 2012

The codling moth, Cydia pomonella, is one of the most important pests of pome fruits in the world, yet the molecular genetics and the physiology of this insect remain poorly understood. A combined assembly of 8 341 expressed sequence tags was generated from Roche 454 GS‐FLX sequencing of eight tissue‐specific cDNA libraries. Putative chemosensory proteins (12) and odorant binding proteins (OBPs) (18) were annotated, which included three putative general OBP (GOBP), one more than typically reported for other Lepidoptera. To further characterize CpomGOBPs, we cloned cDNA copies of their transcripts and determined their expression patterns in various tissues. Cloning and sequencing of the 698 nt transcript for CpomGOBP1 resulted in the prediction of a 163 amino acid coding region, and subsequent RT‐PCR indicated that the transcripts were mainly expressed in antennae and mouthparts. The 1 289 nt (160 amino acid) CpomGOBP2 and the novel 702 nt (169 amino acid) CpomGOBP3 transcripts are mainly expressed in antennae, mouthparts, and female abdomen tips. These results indicate that next generation sequencing is useful for the identification of novel transcripts of interest, and that codling moth expresses a transcript encoding for a new member of the GOBP subfamily.
Economic Rationale for Interventions to Control Livestock Disease  Logique économique des interventions pour contrôler les maladies du bétail  Wirtschaftliche Gründe für Eingriffe zur Kontrolle von Tierseuchen
Authors: Bennett Richard
Published: August 2012

summary

Economic Rationale for Interventions to Control Livestock Disease

Disease in farm animals has significant economic impacts on livestock production and incurs substantial costs for societies. Impacts affect not only livestock farms and the livestock industries but also sectors outside of farming. Important negative externalities of livestock disease include impacts on the health of other producers’ livestock, on human health, and on animal welfare. Good disease risk management/biosecurity and good animal welfare are public goods. Not taking account of these externality and public good aspects can lead to a misallocation of resources for livestock disease control. In such instances, there may be a strong case for government or other authority to intervene to ensure a better use of resources. There are a number of policy instruments that can be implemented for this purpose. One potential instrument is a Farm Animal Health and Welfare Stewardship Scheme funded under Pillar II of the CAP. A number of countries have public–private partnership cost‐sharing schemes that aim to share appropriately both responsibilities and costs of epidemic livestock disease. There is a strong future agenda for appropriate intervention by governments in the management of livestock disease risks, including responsibility and cost sharing for livestock disease control, within the European Union and elsewhere.
How Can Animal Disease Risks be Better Managed?  Comment mieux gérer les risques en matière de maladie animale?  Wie können Tierseuchenrisiken besser gehandhabt werden?
Authors: Carpenter Tim E. , Rich Karl M.
Published: August 2012

summary

How Can Animal Disease Risks be Better Managed?

Livestock farming is imbued with a variety of disease‐related risks. The threat of disease, and actions taken (or not taken) to mitigate it, can impact both the broader livestock sector and potentially society at large if the disease is what is termed zoonotic i.e. impacting both animal and human health alike. Understanding the nature of these risks is crucial to improve policymaking and requires multidisciplinary toolkits. In this article we identify various frameworks from economics and epidemiology to analyze the impact of animal disease risks in livestock environments. From this, we examine the policy responses implemented to better manage risk, and conclude by identifying the current gaps in the decision process related to risk and uncertainty, which is a reflection of imperfect knowledge. Recent advances in our modeling frameworks have helped streamline the complex decision space faced by policymakers and improved our understanding of the risks and consequences of mitigation strategies. At the same time, while there has been significant progress in integrating economic and epidemiological tools to analyze risk, more work is required to understand the feedbacks between disease and behaviour taken to control it.
Haemorrhagic Strokes in Pregnancy and Puerperium
Authors: Khan Maria , Wasay Mohammad
Published: August 2012

There is an increased risk of strokes in pregnancy and puerperium. Intracranial haemorrhage is the rarer of the two stroke subtypes but carries a greater morbidity and mortality for both the mother and the child. This review highlights the causes of pregnancy-related intracranial haemorrhage and its management. The incidence varies from region to region with the highest being reported from China and Taiwan. Majority of these haemorrhages are secondary to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy with smaller proportions related to aneurysm and arteriovenous malformation rupture. A small but important contributor is cortical venous thrombosis which, although predominantly gives rise to ischaemic lesions, may lead to parenchymal haemorrhages as well. Presentation is usually with headaches or seizures, with or without focal deficits. Diagnosis requires brain imaging with computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, and the necessity of investigation when this diagnosis is suspected supersedes the small risk of fetal malformation. Management follows the general management principles for intracranial haemorrhage management. Blood pressures need to be strictly monitored and medicines used for controlling them may differ slightly due to teratogenic effects. For preeclampsia, early but safe delivery is the best treatment. For cortical venous thrombosis, low-molecular-weight heparin is the preferred agent. Aneurysms and vascular malformations need to be definitively treated to prevent re-bleed and this can be achieved through surgical or endovascular procedures. The timing of surgery depends on neurosurgical considerations. However, the timing and mode of delivery are governed by obstetric factors. Risk of future haemorrhage depends on whether the underlying aetiology can be and has been definitively treated.
Community Outreach and Engagement to Prepare for Household Recruitment of National Children's Study Participants in a Rural Setting
Authors: Fahrenwald Nancy L. , Wey Betty , Martin Ann , Specker Bonny L.
Published: August 2012

Context: The National Children's Study (NCS) is a longitudinal study of environmental influences on children's health. Recruitment of a representative birth cohort that will be followed until 21 years of age requires unique approaches across the nationwide study communities.

Purpose: To describe community outreach and engagement in preparation for household recruitment of women of childbearing age at a rural‐classified NCS location that includes 4 adjacent Northern Plains counties spanning 2,500 square miles.

Methods: Outreach and engagement methods focused on rural community characteristics. The team established an advisory council, conducted outreach meetings with agencies and groups, participated in local events, and collaborated with stakeholders. Study awareness was raised using radio announcements, local television stories, and widespread distribution of print materials through churches, businesses, and child care centers. Impact evaluation examined the number of stakeholder events by type. Outcome evaluation examined the number of households contacted for recruitment, numbers of age‐eligible women who completed the screening, and exploration of whether women had heard about the study.

Findings: Over 300 outreach events occurred, ranging from tribal council meetings to parade entries. Recruitment outcomes were as follows: (1) 80% of 14,700 non‐vacant households were reached for potential recruitment; (2) screening interviews were conducted with 89% of the 5,800 age‐eligible women identified; and (3) 53% of women who completed the screening had heard about the study.

Conclusions: Outreach targeted to rural communities facilitated strong recruitment outcomes. Collaboration with the cooperative extension service was a unique rural asset that facilitated relevant activities. Participant retention is an ongoing priority.
Rural Relevant Quality Measures for Critical Access Hospitals
Authors: Casey Michelle M. , Moscovice Ira , Klingner Jill , Prasad Shailendra
Published: August 2012

Purpose: To identify current and future relevant quality measures for Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs).

Methods: Three criteria (patient volume, internal usefulness for quality improvement, and external usefulness for public reporting and payment reform) were used to analyze quality measures for their relevance for CAHs. A 6‐member panel with expertise in rural hospital quality measurement and improvement provided input regarding the final measure selection.

Findings: The relevant quality measures for CAHs include measures that are ready for reporting now and measures that need specifications to be finalized and/or a data reporting mechanism to be established. They include inpatient measures for specific medical conditions, global measures that address appropriate care across multiple medical conditions, and Emergency Department measures.

Conclusions: All CAHs should publicly report on relevant quality measures. Acceptance of a single consolidated set of quality measures with common specifications for CAHs by all entities involved in regulation, accreditation, and payment; a phased process to implement the relevant measures; and the provision of technical assistance would help CAHs meet the challenge of reporting.