bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OPTIMAL HOUSING COST ESTIMATES FOR 177 U.S. METROPOLITAN AREAS
Authors: Easton Todd
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACT This research tests the ability of six metropolitan‐level measures of housing costs to predict a benchmark housing cost measure based on Aten's area price level index. The first four measures are calculated with U.S. Census Data, the fifth is based on HUD Fair Market Rents, and the sixth is the housing portion of the ACCRA Index. In 25 large metropolitan areas, the fourth measure predicts 86 percent of the variation in the benchmark index in 1990 and 85 percent in 2000. The fifth measure performs nearly as well. The paper concludes both are promising measures of living costs.
Estimation for non‐negative time series with heavy‐tail innovations
Authors: Bartlett A. , McCormick W. P.
Published: July 2012

For moving average processes where the coefficients are non‐negative and the innovations are positive random variables with a regularly varying tail at infinity, we provide estimates for the coefficients based on the ratio of two sample values chosen with respect to an extreme value criteria. We then apply this result to obtain estimates for the parameters of non‐negative ARMA models. Weak convergence results for the joint distribution of our estimates are established and a simulation study is provided to examine the small sample size behaviour of these estimates.
Kings, crisis and coinage reforms in the mid‐eighth century
Authors: NAISMITH RORY
Published: July 2012

Between 740 and 770 coin reforms occurred in five north‐west European kingdoms: Northumbria, East Anglia, Francia, Kent and Mercia. Comparison between them highlights important common features, especially the advent of a more explicit royal role in the supervision of minting than had hitherto prevailed. Precipitated by a substantial downturn in production probably resulting in part from shortfalls in bullion supply, the new coin issues stem from a partnership between the king and other agencies: moneyers in the Anglo‐Saxon kingdoms; secular magnates in Francia. These coinages provide an insight into international connections and local adaptation, grounded in the economic role of coinage and a complex administrative background.
Genetic analysis of NR4A2 gene in a large population of Han Chinese patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Liu H. , Tao Q. , Deng H. , Ming M. , Ding Y. , Xu P. , Chen S. , Song Z. , Le W.
Published: July 2012

Background

NR4A2 gene is a transcription factor crucial for differentiation and survival of midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons, and several variants have been eported to be associated with Parkinson's disease (PD) in the Caucasian population.

Methods

To determine whether there is any association of NR4A2 mutation or variation with PD in the Han Chinese population, we performed a genetic analysis of all the exons and exon–intron boundaries in 689 PD patients and 672 controls from mainland China using direct sequencing analysis.

Results

We identified four novel variants and two previously reported variants. Two novel variants (exon 2 c.‐20 C>G and exon 3 c.711 C>A) were only found in PD. The others (exon 2 c.‐35 A>G; exon 8 c.1615 G>A; intron 4 IVS4‐16 G>T; and intron 6 IVS6 + 18 insG) were found in both PD and controls at different frequencies.

Conclusions

Collectively, our results suggest that NR4A2 may be a susceptibility gene for PD in the Chinese population.
Prognostic impact of lymphadenectomy in uterine serous cancer
Authors: Mahdi H , Kumar S , Al‐Wahab Z , Ali‐Fehmi R , Munkarah AR
Published: July 2012

Objective  To estimate the survival impact of lymphadenectomy in women diagnosed with uterine serous cancer.

Design  Women with a diagnosis of uterine serous cancer were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program (SEER) from 1988 to 2007. Only surgically treated women were included.

Setting  The Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program database provided data from 17 registries.

Population  The study population comprised 4178 women.

Methods  Statistical analyses using Student’s t‐test, Kaplan–Meier survival methods and Cox proportional hazards regression were performed.

Main outcome measure  Overall survival.

Results  Three thousand, one hundred and ninety‐four (67.7%) women underwent lymphadenectomy. Older women (≥65 years) and Caucasian women (relative to Asian) were less likely to have lymphadenectomy (P < 0.001). The prevalence of nodal metastasis in women having lymphadenectomy was 32%. Of the 1997 women who had disease grossly confined to the uterus and underwent lymphadenectomy, 387 (19%) were found to have nodal metastasis. Lymphadenectomy was associated with improved survival; women who underwent lymphadenectomy were 41% (hazard ratio [HR], 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54–0.64; P < 0.001) less likely to die than women who did not have the procedure. Moreover, more extensive lymphadenectomy correlated positively with survival. Compared with women with 1–10 nodes removed, those with more extensive lymphadenectomy (>10 nodes removed) were 26% (HR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.67–0.83; P < 0.001) less likely to die. The impact of the extent of lymphadenectomy on survival was significant in both node‐negative and node‐positive women.

Conclusion  Age and race influenced the prevalence of lymphadenectomy in our cohort. This study suggests that the extent of lymphadenectomy is associated with significant improvement in survival of women with uterine serous cancer.
Better safe than sorry
Authors: Sulik KK , O’Leary‐Moore SK , Riley EP
Published: July 2012

Please cite this paper as: Sulik K, O’Leary‐Moore S, Riley E. Better safe than sorry. BJOG 2012;119:1159–1161.
Is intrapartum fever associated with ST‐waveform changes of the fetal electrocardiogram? A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Becker JH , van Rijswijk J , Versteijnen B , Evers ACC , van den Akker ESA , van Beek E , Bolte AC , Rijnders RJP , Mol BWJ , Moons KGM , Porath MM , Drogtrop AP , Schuitemaker NWE , Willekes C , Westerhuis MEMH , Visser GHA , Kwee A
Published: July 2012

Please cite this paper as: Becker J, van Rijswijk J, Versteijnen B, Evers A, van den Akker E, van Beek E, Bolte A, Rijnders R, Mol B, Moons K, Porath M, Drogtrop A, Schuitemaker N, Willekes C, Westerhuis M, Visser G, Kwee A. Is intrapartum fever associated with ST‐waveform changes of the fetal electrocardiogram? A retrospective cohort study. BJOG 2012;119:1410–1416.

Objective  To investigate the association between maternal intrapartum fever and ST‐waveform changes of the fetal electrocardiogram.

Design  Retrospective cohort study.

Setting  Three academic and six non‐academic teaching hospitals in the Netherlands.

Population  Labouring women with a high‐risk singleton pregnancy in cephalic position beyond 36 weeks of gestation.

Methods  We studied 142 women with fever (≥38.0°C) during labour and 141 women with normal temperature who had been included in two previous studies. In both groups, we counted the number and type of ST‐events and classified them as significant (intervention needed) or not significant, based on STAN® clinical guidelines.

Main outcome measures  Number and type of ST‐events.

Results  Both univariable and multivariable regression analysis showed no association between the presence of maternal intrapartum fever and the number or type of ST‐events.

Conclusions  Maternal intrapartum fever is not associated with ST‐segment changes of the fetal electrocardiogram. Interpretation of ST‐changes in labouring women with fever should therefore not differ from other situations.
Nimodipine inhibits IL‐1β release stimulated by amyloid β from microglia
Authors: Sanz JM , Chiozzi P , Colaianna M , Zotti M , Ferrari D , Trabace L , Zuliani G , Di Virgilio F
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE There is growing evidence that inflammation plays a major role in the pathogenesis of neural damage caused by deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) in the brain. Nimodipine has received attention as a drug that might improve learning and reduce cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease, but the mechanism of action is poorly known. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that nimodipine inhibited Aβ‐stimulated IL‐1β release from microglia.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Cultures of N13 microglia cells or primary mouse microglia were treated with nimodipine, and intracellular accumulation and release of IL‐1β in response to Aβ or to the P2 receptor agonists ATP and benzoyl ATP (BzATP) were measured. Accumulation of IL‐1β was measured in vivo after intrahippocampal inoculation of Aβ in the absence or presence of nimodipine. The effect of nimodipine on Aβ‐triggered cytotoxicity was also investigated.

KEY RESULTS We show here that nimodipine dose‐dependently inhibited Aβ‐stimulated IL‐1β synthesis and release from primary microglia and microglia cell lines. Furthermore, nimodipine also inhibited Aβ‐induced IL‐1βin vivo accumulation at concentrations known to be reached in the CNS. Finally, nimodipine protected microglia from Aβ‐dependent cytotoxicity.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS These data suggest that alleviation of symptoms of Alzheimer's disease following nimodipine administration might be due to an anti‐inflammatory effect and point to a novel role for nimodipine as a centrally acting anti‐inflammatory drug.
Hydrogen sulfide inhibits the translational expression of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α
Authors: Wu Bo , Teng Huajian , Yang Guangdong , Wu Lingyun , Wang Rui
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The accumulation of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) is under the influence of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which regulates hypoxia responses. The regulation of HIF‐1α accumulation by H2S has been shown, but the mechanisms for this effect are largely elusive and controversial. This study aimed at addressing the controversial mechanisms for and the functional importance of the interaction of H2S and HIF‐1α protein.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH HIF‐1α protein levels and HIF‐1α transcriptional activity were detected by Western blotting and luciferase assay. The mechanisms for H2S‐regulated HIF‐1α protein levels were determined using short interfering RNA transfection, co‐immunoprecipitation and 7‐methyl‐GTP sepharose 4B pull‐down assay. Angiogenic activity was evaluated using tube formation assay in EA.hy926 cells.

KEY RESULTS The accumulation of HIF‐1α protein under hypoxia (1% O2) or hypoxia‐mimetic conditions was reversed by sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS). This effect of NaHS was not altered after blocking the ubiquitin‐proteasomal pathway for HIF‐1α degradation; however, blockade of protein translation with cycloheximide abolished the effect of NaHS on the half‐life of HIF‐1α protein. Knockdown of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α) suppressed the effect of NaHS on HIF‐1α protein accumulation under hypoxia. NaHS inhibited the expression of VEGF under hypoxia. It also decreased in vitro capillary tube formation and cell proliferation of EA.hy926 cells under hypoxia, but stimulated the tube formation under normoxia.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS H2S suppresses HIF‐1α translation by enhancing eIF2α phosphorylation under hypoxia. The interaction of H2S and HIF‐1α inhibits the angiogenic activity of vascular endothelial cells under hypoxia through the down‐regulation of VEGF.
Grounding‐line dynamics during the last deglaciation of Kveithola, W Barents Sea, as revealed by seabed geomorphology and shallow seismic stratigraphy
Authors: Bjarnadóttir Lilja R. , Rüther Denise C. , Winsborrow Monica C. M. , Andreassen Karin
Published: July 2012

A marine geophysical study reveals a complex deglaciation pattern in the Kveithola trough, W Barents Sea. The data set includes multibeam swath bathymetry and sub‐bottom sediment profiler (chirp) data acquired for the whole extent of a palaeo, marine‐terminating ice stream, along with high‐resolution single‐channel seismic data from chosen profiles. The multibeam data show a geomorphic landform assemblage characteristic of ice streams. The results of a combination of seismic and chirp unit stratigraphy reveal that the seabed geomorphology is governed by a deeper‐lying reflector. The reflector dominates surface expressions of several subglacial and ice‐marginal units, each connected to a separate episode of ice‐margin stillstand/advance. Analysis of the combined data set has resulted in a conceptual model of the ice‐stream retreat. The model depicts complex deglaciation of a small, confined ice‐stream system through episodic retreat. It describes the formation of several generations of grounding‐zone systems, characterized by high meltwater discharges and the deposition of fine‐grained grounding‐line fans. The inferred style of grounding‐zone deposition in Kveithola deviates from that of other accounts, and is suggested to be intermediate in the previously described continuum between morainal banks and grounding‐line wedges. The results of this paper have implications for grounding‐zone theory and should be of interest to modellers of grounding‐line dynamics and ice‐stream retreat.
Values and Risk Perceptions: A Cross‐Cultural Examination
Authors: Kaptan Gülbanu , Shiloh Shoshana , Önkal Dilek
Published: July 2012

This article examines the relationship between values and risk perceptions regarding terror attacks. The participants in the study are university students from Turkey (n = 536) and Israel (n = 298). Schwartz value theory (1992, 1994) is applied to conceptualize and measure values. Cognitive (perceived likelihood and perceived severity) and emotional (fear, helplessness, anger, distress, insecurity, hopelessness, sadness, and anxiety) responses about the potential of (i) being personally exposed to a terror attack, and (ii) a terror attack that may occur in one's country are assessed to measure risk perceptions. Comparison of the two groups suggests that the Turkish participants are significantly more emotional about terror risks than the Israeli respondents. Both groups perceive the risk of a terror attack that may occur in their country more likely than the risk of being personally exposed to a terror attack. No significant differences are found in emotional representations and perceived severity ratings regarding these risks. Results provide support for the existence of a link between values and risk perceptions of terror attacks. In both countries, self‐direction values are negatively related to emotional representations, whereas security values are positively correlated with emotions; hedonism and stimulation values are negatively related to perceived likelihood. Current findings are discussed in relation to previous results, theoretical approaches (the social amplification of risk framework and cultural theory of risk), and practical implications (increasing community support for a course of action, training programs for risk communicators).
Malfunction of Subpectorally Implanted Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Defibrillators Due to Weakened Header Bond
Authors: HAYAT SAJAD A , KOJODJOJO PIPIN , MASON ANTHONY , BENFIELD ANN , WRIGHT IAN , WHINNETT ZACHARY , LIM PHANG BOON , DAVIES D. WYN , LEFROY DAVID , PETERS NICHOLAS S , KANAGARATNAM PRAPA
Published: July 2012

Malfunction of Subpectorally Implanted Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy. Background: Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation has increased significantly over the last 10 years. Concerns about the safety and reliability of ICD systems have been raised, with premature lead failure and battery malfunctions accounting for the majority of reported adverse events. We describe the unique mode of presentation, diagnosis, and management of cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators (CRT‐D) malfunctions that were caused by weakened bonding between the generator and header.

Methods and Results:
Between June 2008 and December 2009, 22 Teligen™ ICDs and 24 Cognis™ CRT‐Ds were implanted subpectorally at our institution, until a product advisory was issued. Of 24 Cognis™ CRT‐D implants, 3 patients presented with CRT‐D malfunctions. All our cases presented with initially intermittent and then persisting increases in shock lead impedance, associated with nonphysiological noise in the shock electrogram channels. These issues were rectified by generator change. Postexplant laboratory analysis confirmed inadequate bonding between device header and titanium casing in all cases, resulting in loosening and rocking of the header followed by fatigue‐induced fracture of the shock circuitry.

Conclusion:
Weakened bonding between the header and generator casing of subpectorally implanted CRT‐Ds can result in fractures and malfunction of the HV circuit. Physicians monitoring patients with devices affected by the product advisory should remain vigilant in order to diagnose and manage similar device malfunction expediently. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 24, pp. 351‐355, March 2013)
Ribotyping of Clostridium difficile strains associated with nosocomial transmission and relapses in a Swedish County
Authors: Magnusson Cecilia , Wullt Marlene , Löfgren Sture , Iveroth Peter , Åkerlund Tomas , Matussek Andreas
Published: July 2012

Clostridium difficile is an emerging threat in hospital environments. To analyse possible transmission and to distinguish between relapse and reinfection a collection of C. difficile isolates, sampled from 162 consecutive episodes of C. difficile infection, were PCR ribotyped. Two ribotypes (001 and 012) were prone to cause nosocomial acquisition. Moreover, ribotype 001 had a tendency to cause relapses as almost one in two patients with this ribotype had one or more relapses. By using PCR ribotyping strains inclined to cause relapses and strains associated with hospital transmission might be detected. This enables optimized hygiene measures and may improve the choice of treatment regimen.
Expression of suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (SOCS3) in human bladder epithelial cells infected with uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Demirel Isak , Säve Susanne , Kruse Robert , Persson Katarina
Published: July 2012

Suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS) proteins inhibit pro‐inflammatory signalling mediated by Janus‐activated kinase (JAK)‐signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathways. To evade the immune response some pathogens appear to modify the host SOCS proteins. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) are able to subvert the host response evoked by bladder epithelial cells, but the mechanisms are not fully understood. The objective of this study was to investigate whether UPEC can modify the host SOCS and STAT3 response. Real time RT‐PCR studies demonstrated an increased SOCS1 and SOCS3 expression in the isolated human bladder epithelial cell lines (RT‐4 and 5637) in response to cytokines. UPEC strain IA2 increased SOCS3, but not SOCS1, mRNA levels with a peak at 6 h after infection. The increase of SOCS3 was confirmed at the protein level by Western blotting. The UPEC strain IA2 caused a time‐dependent decrease in the phosphorylation of STAT3. This study demonstrates that UPEC are able to affect SOCS3 and STAT3 signalling in human uroepithelial cells. The finding that UPEC are able to induce mediators involved in suppression of host cytokine signalling may help to elucidate how UPEC may circumvent the host response during urinary tract infection.
Spatial consistency in susceptibility of prey species to predation by two Accipiter hawks
Authors: Møller Anders Pape , Solonen Tapio , Byholm Patrik , Huhta Esa , Nielsen Jan Tøttrup , Tornberg Risto
Published: July 2012

Predators impose strong selection on their prey, regulate prey populations and engage in coevolutionary interactions with their prey. The intensity of selection and the strength of coevolutionary interactions will depend on how stringent predators are in their choice of prey. We estimated susceptibility of different species of birds to predation by two common raptors, the northern goshawk Accipiter gentilis and the Eurasian sparrowhawk A. nisus, in an agricultural landscape in Denmark and boreal forests in Finland. We estimated susceptibility to predation as the deviation of the log10‐transformed observed frequency of prey of different species from the log10‐transformed expectation based on population density during the breeding season. We found a high degree of consistency in susceptibility to predation by the goshawk in two areas in Finland. More importantly, there was significant consistency in susceptibility to predation between Denmark and Finland, albeit the degree of consistency in the goshawk was higher than in the sparrowhawk. There was considerable overlap in susceptibility to predation between goshawk and sparrowhawk in Denmark, but not in Finland, implying differences in intensity of interspecific competition as reflected by a much higher extent of goshawk predation on sparrowhawks in Denmark than in Finland. Our findings suggest that hawks impose similar selection pressures on their prey populations, and that the degree of consistency has implications for intensity of interspecific killing.
Granuloma annulare‐like eruption associated with B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Sokumbi Olayemi , Gibson Lawrence E. , Comfere Nneka I. , Peters Margot S.
Published: July 2012

Background

Cutaneous granulomatous inflammation can occur in patients with T‐cell lymphoma and Hodgkin disease. We describe the unusual microscopic pattern of a granuloma annulare (GA)‐like eruption co‐existing with B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B‐CLL).

Methods

We reviewed the histopathology and immunophenotype of skin biopsies from two patients with B‐CLL and cutaneous lesions resembling GA.

Results

Both patients had symptomatic cutaneous lesions clinically resembling GA; one had lesions refractory to standard dermatologic therapy. Histopathology showed GA‐like palisaded histiocytic infiltration, with subtle collections of lymphocytes interspersed among the granulomatous inflammation. Immunohistochemistry showed strong expression of CD20 and CD79a, with aberrant CD5 co‐expression, confirming cutaneous involvement by B‐CLL.

Conclusions

Co‐existence of a GA‐like infiltrate and cutaneous B‐CLL raises the possibility that granulomatous inflammation occurs as a secondary response to dermal infiltration by leukemic cells. Because histopathologic findings can be subtle, knowledge of this association is essential to avoid overlooking the diagnosis. Regardless of whether histopathology reflects a reactive or primary phenomenon, documentation of cutaneous involvement by B‐CLL may serve as a rationale for specific treatment of the underlying B‐CLL in patients with skin lesions unresponsive to dermatologic therapy and for whom there is no other justification for leukemia‐targeted therapy.
Anorexia nervosa in pregnancy
Authors: Lowes Hannah , Kopeika Julia , Micali Nadia , Ash Alok
Published: July 2012

Key content

Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric disorder which is most common in young women and which has the highest mortality rate among all psychiatric disorders.

In pregnant women with anorexia nervosa a six‐fold increase in perinatal mortality rate has been reported.

There is a lack of evidence‐based obstetric guidelines for the management of pregnant women with anorexia nervosa.

This article looks into the effects of anoxexia nervosa on pregnancy and vice versa, and suggests a streamlined management plan.

Learning objectives

To appreciate the issues surrounding the background and diagnosis.

To understand the complex nature of managing pregnant women with anorexia nervosa.

To be aware of the potential short and long‐term repercussions of the disorder on the baby.

Ethical issues

A woman's right to autonomy is frequently in contradiction with the clinician's attempts to protect the welfare of her and her baby.

A woman's psychological conflicts resulting from the condition during pregnancy and immediately postpartum need to be appreciated.
Vitamin supplementation in pregnancy
Authors: Duckworth Susan , Mistry Hiten D , Chappell Lucy C
Published: July 2012

Key content

Pregnant women should take 400 micrograms/day of folic acid periconceptionally.

High‐dose vitamins C and E are not recommended.

All pregnant women are now advised to take vitamin D supplements.

Less than 50% of pregnant women in the UK take the vitamins recommended for pregnancy.

Further collaborative research is required to understand the role of other vitamins in improving maternal and perinatal wellbeing in high and low‐resourced countries.

Learning objectives

To understand the role of vitamins in pregnancy.

To gain an overview of recommendations on vitamin supplementation in pregnancy.

To be aware of the benefits and harm of vitamin supplementation in pregnancy.

Ethical Issues

Is it appropriate to identify women at risk of vitamin deficiency based on parameters such as ethnicity and body mass index?

How should potential benefits and harms be balanced for mother and fetus when considering vitamin supplementation in pregnancy?

Is it ethical to consider food fortification with vitamins for the benefit of one group (pregnant women) when there may be harm for other groups (older persons)?
Domestic violence: a clinical guide for women's healthcare providers
Authors: Gottlieb Amy S
Published: July 2012

Key content

Domestic violence is common among obstetric and gynaecology patients and is a leading cause of maternal mortality.

Reproductive coercion involves male attempts to control female fertility; long‐acting contraception should be considered in these cases.

Past domestic violence and late booking for antenatal care are associated with abuse during pregnancy.

Healthcare providers should ask women about domestic violence directly and in private, assess victims’ safety, offer referrals to community‐based organisations and document abuse in the hospital or office record (not necessarily in the hand‐held record).

Learning objectives

To understand the prevalence of domestic violence, risk factors and the impact on women's health.

To know how to enquire routinely for domestic violence and offer assistance to victims.

Ethical issues

The highest standard of confidentiality is required to keep abused women safe; at times, this standard may conflict with complete information sharing.

Healthcare providers often feel frustrated and powerless when working with abused women. It is the woman's decision when to leave her violent relationship and the clinician's role to provide empathy and information about resources.
Resolution of life‐threatening dysphagia caused by caudal occipital malformation syndrome following foramen magnum decompressive surgery
Authors: Graham KJ , Black AP , Brain PH
Published: July 2012

A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was presented with acute onset, life‐threatening dysphagia suspected to be secondary to medulla oblongata compression caused by caudal occipital malformation syndrome. The patient required urgent tracheostomy tube placement to remain stable and was subsequently cured of the presenting neurological deficits by foramen magnum decompressive surgery. Neurogenic dysphagia is a relatively common presenting sign in human Chiari malformation syndromes, but has not been described as a major clinical sign in veterinary patients. Caudal occipital malformation syndrome should be included in the differential diagnosis list for susceptible breeds presenting with dysphagia. Early recognition favours expeditious surgical intervention and a positive outcome in human patients, and this may also be the case in veterinary patients.
Coeliotomy‐assisted intrauterine insemination in dogs: a study of 238 inseminations
Authors: Burgess DM , Mitchell KE , Thomas PGA
Published: July 2012

Objective

(1) To report whelping rates and litter sizes following coeliotomy‐assisted intrauterine inseminations (CAII) performed commercially and (2) to identify factors that may influence these outcomes.

Design

Retrospective single cohort observational study.

Procedure

All oestrous cycles in bitches that presented to the study hospital for CAII between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2010 were included. One insemination was performed per oestrus. Whelping and litter size following CAII were recorded. Potential determinants of these outcomes were assessed.

Results

Of 238 inseminations performed, 174 (73.1%) resulted in whelping. The known litter size ranged from 1 to 16 pups (mean ± SD 6.12 ± 3.12 pups). From univariable analyses, progressive motility percentage was the only variable significantly associated with odds of whelping (P = 0.020); bitch parity and weight were associated with litter size when adjusted for each other (P = 0.035 and 0.003, respectively). Inseminations performed with >200 × 106 progressively motile sperm were more likely to result in whelping relative to inseminations with >100–200 × 106 progressively motile sperm (odds ratio 3.61, 95% confidence interval 0.84–15.5, P = 0.084), and, in a separate model, relative to >75–125 × 106 progressively motile sperm (odds ratio 6.09, 95% confidence interval 1.41–26.36, P = 0.016).

Conclusion

Whelping rates and litter sizes were similar to other case studies and the experimental reports of CAII. Progressive motility percentage affects the odds of whelping, and litter size is affected by both the weight and parity of the bitch. Importantly, these findings provide some evidence that whelping rates with CAII are not maximised unless more than 200 × 106 progressively motile sperm are inseminated.
Low‐level Laser Therapy Ameliorates CCl4‐induced Liver Cirrhosis in Rats
Authors: Oliveira‐Junior Manoel Carneiro , Monteiro Aldaíza Salomão , Leal‐Junior Ernesto César Pinto , Munin Egberto , Osório Rodrigo Aléxis Lazo , Ribeiro Wellington , Vieira Rodolfo Paula
Published: July 2012

This study investigated the effects of low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) in the liver function, structure and inflammation in a experimental model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐induced liver cirrhosis. Wistar rats were divided into Control, LLLT, CCl4 and CCl4+LLLT groups. CCl4 groups received CCl4 (0.4 g kg−1; i.p.), three times a week, for 12 weeks. A 830 nm LLLT was performed with a continuous wave, 35 mW, 2.5 J cm−2 per point, applied to four points of the liver (right and left upper and lower extremities, in the four lobes of the liver) for 2 weeks. Liver structure and inflammation (cirrhotic areas, collagen deposition, inflammation, density of Kupffer and hepatic stellate cells) and function (aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyltransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, total proteins and globulins) were evaluated. LLLT significantly reduced CCl4‐increased aspartate aminotransferase (P < 0.001), alkaline phosphatase (P < 0.001), gamma‐glutamyl transferase (P < 0.001) and lactate dehydrogenase (P < 0.01) activity, as well as total proteins (P < 0.05) and globulins (P < 0.01). LLLT also reduced the number of cirrhotic areas, the collagen accumulation and the hepatic inflammatory infiltrate. Of note, LLLT reduced CCl4‐increased number of Kupffer cells (P < 0.05) and hepatic stellate cells (P < 0.05). We conclude that LLLT presents beneficial effects on liver function and structure in an experimental model of CCl4‐induced cirrhosis.
Omeprazole improves the anti‐obesity and antidiabetic effects of exendin‐4 in db/db mice (奥美拉唑改善唾液素‐4 对db/db小鼠的减肥与降糖作用)*
Authors: Patel Vishal , Joharapurkar Amit , Gandhi Tejal , Patel Kirti , Dhanesha Nirav , Kshirsagar Samadhan , Dhote Vipin , Detroja Jaysukh , Bahekar Rajesh , Jain Mukul
Published: July 2012

Background:  In addition to its glucoregulatory actions, exendin‐4, a stable glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, exhibits protective effects in the pancreas and anti‐obesity effects. Suitable combination treatment with other anti‐obesity or pancreas protective agents would be an effective approach to optimize these additional effects. In the present study, we investigated the effects of the addition of omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, to exendin‐4 in db/db mice, an experimental model of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Methods:  The effects repeated dose treatment for 14 days with exendin‐4 (8 μg/kg, s.c.) and omeprazole (30 mg/kg, s.c.) on glycemic control, food intake, and body weight were determined in obese and hyperglycemic db/db mice. The effects of these treatments on plasma gastrin, ghrelin, and leptin levels were determined, along with effects on nausea‐like symptoms. The pancreatic effects of the repeated dose treatment were assessed by measuring %HbA1c in the circulation as well as pancreatic insulin and glucagon content and glucokinase activity.

Results:  Combination treatment resulted in significant decreases in plasma leptin and ghrelin levels after repeated dosing. Omeprazole improved the anorectic and body weight‐lowering effects and reversed the inhibitory effect of exendin‐4 on gastrin levels after repeated dose treatment. The 14‐day combination treatment significantly reduced glucose excursion and improved insulin levels, with a concomitant decrease in %HbA1c levels. It also improved glucokinase activity and pancreatic insulin content, with a significant decrease in glucagon content.

Conclusions:  Combined treatment with omeprazole with exendin‐4 reduces food intake and body weight gain, most likely through changes in plasma ghrelin and leptin levels, and improves pancreatic insulin and glucagon content by improving glucokinase activity.
The Role of Banks in Dividend Policy
Authors: Allen Linda , Gottesman Aron , Saunders Anthony , Tang Yi
Published: July 2012

We use loan‐specific data to document a significant inverse relation between a firm's dividend payouts and the intensity of a firm's reliance on bank loan financing. Banks limit dividend payouts to protect the integrity of their senior claims on the firm's assets. Moreover, dividend payouts decline in the presence of monitoring by relationship banks, which acts as an effective governance mechanism, thereby reducing the gains from precommitting to costly dividend payouts. Bank monitoring and corporate governance (insider stake and institutional block holdings) are complementary mechanisms to resolve firm agency problems, both reducing the firm's reliance on dividend policy.
Sato–Tate distributions and Galois endomorphism modules in genus 2
Authors: Fité Francesc , Kedlaya Kiran S. , Rotger Víctor , Sutherland Andrew V.
Published: July 2012

For an abelian surface A over a number field k, we study the limiting distribution of the normalized Euler factors of the L-function of A. This distribution is expected to correspond to taking characteristic polynomials of a uniform random matrix in some closed subgroup of USp(4); this Sato–Tate group may be obtained from the Galois action on any Tate module of A. We show that the Sato–Tate group is limited to a particular list of 55 groups up to conjugacy. We then classify A according to the Galois module structure on the ℝ-algebra generated by endomorphisms of $A_{{\overline {\mathbb Q}}}$ (the Galois type), and establish a matching with the classification of Sato–Tate groups; this shows that there are at most 52 groups up to conjugacy which occur as Sato–Tate groups for suitable A and k, of which 34 can occur for k=ℚ. Finally, we present examples of Jacobians of hyperelliptic curves exhibiting each Galois type (over ℚ whenever possible), and observe numerical agreement with the expected Sato–Tate distribution by comparing moment statistics.
Longitudinal Impact of Semi-Infinite Elastic Bars: Plane Short Time Solution
Authors: Malkov M. A.
Published: July 2012

Using the Sobolev-Smirnov method we find the exact analytical solution of the longitudinal impact of semi-infinite plane elastic bars. The solution allows us to investigate wave propagations shortly after the impact. The obtained results allow us to compare the exact and approximate solutions of impact problems. We show that approximate solutions are wrong in a short time. According to the exact solution five waves are created in the first time after impact: one longitudinal loading wave and two unloading longitudinal waves from the lateral surfaces of the bars and two unloading transverse waves, also from the surfaces. We find singular points of the solution. It can be used for other applications such as any impact of two elastic bodies since the same waves arise and the same singular points exist at the impact. One of the singular points moves along surfaces with the speed of Rayleigh waves. At this point the bar surface is perpendicular to the axis of the bars. Such a point arises at any impact. As the earth surface is also perpendicular to the direction of propagation of seismic waves, Rayleigh waves are especially destructive at earthquakes.
Characterization of enhancement-mode n-channel sulfur-treated InP MOSFET with liquid phase deposition-TiO2 gate oxide
Authors: Yen Chih-Feng , Lee Ming-Kwei
Published: July 2012

TiO2 films were prepared with aqueous solutions of hexafluorotitanic acid and boric acid on an InP substrate with an ammonium sulfide treatment. The films showed greatly enhanced electrical characteristics compared to those prepared without the ammonium sulfide treatment. The leakage currents of the resulting TiO2/InP capacitor reached 2.1 × 10−7 and 7.4 × 10−7 A/cm2 at ±0.5 MV/cm. The dielectric constant and the effective oxide charges were 43 and −2 × 1011 C/cm2, respectively. The interface state density was 3.6 × 1011 cm−2 eV−1. The fabricated enhancement-mode n-channel InP MOSFET exhibited good electrical characteristics with a maximum gm of 43 mS/mm and electron mobility of 348 cm2/Vs.
Beam damage of HS(CH2)15 COOH Terminated Self Assembled Monolayer (SAM) as Observed by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Engelhard Mark , Tarasevich Barb , Baer Don
Published: July 2012

XPS spectra of a HS(CH2)15 COOH terminated self assembled monolayer (SAM) sample were collected over a period of 231 min to determine specimen damage during long exposures to monochromatic Al Kα x-rays. For this COOH terminated SAM the loss of oxygen was measured as a function of time while rastering a focused 100 W, 100 μm diameter x-ray beam over a 1.4 mm × 0.2 mm area of the sample.
Image features for misalignment correction in medical flat‐detector CT
Authors: Wicklein Julia , Kunze Holger , Kalender Willi A. , Kyriakou Yiannis
Published: July 2012

Purpose:

Misalignment artifacts are a serious problem in medical flat‐detector computed tomography. Generally, the geometrical parameters, which are essential for reconstruction, are provided by preceding calibration routines. These procedures are time consuming and the later use of stored parameters is sensitive toward external impacts or patient movement. The method of choice in a clinical environment would be a markerless online‐calibration procedure that allows flexible scan trajectories and simultaneously corrects misalignment and motion artifacts during the reconstruction process. Therefore, different image features were evaluated according to their capability of quantifying misalignment.

Methods:

Projections of the FORBILD head and thorax phantoms were simulated. Additionally, acquisitions of a head phantom and patient data were used for evaluation. For the reconstruction different sources and magnitudes of misalignment were introduced in the geometry description. The resulting volumes were analyzed by entropy (based on the gray‐level histogram), total variation, Gabor filter texture features, Haralick co‐occurrence features, and Tamura texture features. The feature results were compared to the back‐projection mismatch of the disturbed geometry.

Results:

The evaluations demonstrate the ability of several well‐established image features to classify misalignment. The authors elaborated the particular suitability of the gray‐level histogram‐based entropy on identifying misalignment artifacts, after applying an appropriate window level (bone window).

Conclusions:

Some of the proposed feature extraction algorithms show a strong correlation with the misalignment level. Especially, entropy‐based methods showed very good correspondence, with the best of these being the type that uses the gray‐level histogram for calculation. This makes it a suitable image feature for online‐calibration.
Reliable detection of fluence anomalies in EPID‐based IMRT pretreatment quality assurance using pixel intensity deviations
Authors: Gordon J. J. , Gardner J. K. , Wang S. , Siebers J. V.
Published: July 2012

Purpose:

This work uses repeat images of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) fields to quantify fluence anomalies (i.e., delivery errors) that can be reliably detected in electronic portal images used for IMRT pretreatment quality assurance.

Methods:

Repeat images of 11 clinical IMRT fields are acquired on a Varian Trilogy linear accelerator at energies of 6 MV and 18 MV. Acquired images are corrected for output variations and registered to minimize the impact of linear accelerator and electronic portal imaging device (EPID) positioning deviations. Detection studies are performed in which rectangular anomalies of various sizes are inserted into the images. The performance of detection strategies based on pixel intensity deviations (PIDs) and gamma indices is evaluated using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results:

Residual differences between registered images are due to interfraction positional deviations of jaws and multileaf collimator leaves, plus imager noise. Positional deviations produce large intensity differences that degrade anomaly detection. Gradient effects are suppressed in PIDs using gradient scaling. Background noise is suppressed using median filtering. In the majority of images, PID‐based detection strategies can reliably detect fluence anomalies of ≥5% in ∼1 mm2 areas and ≥2% in ∼20 mm2 areas.

Conclusions:

The ability to detect small dose differences (≤2%) depends strongly on the level of background noise. This in turn depends on the accuracy of image registration, the quality of the reference image, and field properties. The longer term aim of this work is to develop accurate and reliable methods of detecting IMRT delivery errors and variations. The ability to resolve small anomalies will allow the accuracy of advanced treatment techniques, such as image guided, adaptive, and arc therapies, to be quantified.
Illustration of the obstacles in computerized lung segmentation using examples
Authors: Meng Xin , Qiang Yongqian , Zhu Shaocheng , Fuhrman Carl , Siegfried Jill M. , Pu Jiantao
Published: July 2012

Purpose:

Automated lung volume segmentation is often a preprocessing step in quantitative lung computed tomography (CT) image analysis. The objective of this study is to identify the obstacles in computerized lung volume segmentation and illustrate those explicitly using real examples. Awareness of these “difficult” cases may be helpful for the development of a robust and consistent lung segmentation algorithm.

Methods:

We collected a large diverse dataset consisting of 2768 chest CT examinations acquired on 2292 subjects from various sources. These examinations cover a wide range of diseases, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, human immunodeficiency virus, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, asthma, and interstitial lung disease (ILD). The CT acquisition protocols, including dose, scanners, and reconstruction kernels, vary significantly. After the application of a “neutral” thresholding‐based approach to the collected CT examinations in a batch manner, the failed cases were subjectively identified and classified into different subgroups.

Results:

Totally, 121 failed examinations are identified, corresponding to a failure ratio of 4.4%. These failed cases are summarized as 11 different subgroups, which is further classified into 3 broad categories: (1) failure caused by diseases, (2) failure caused by anatomy variability, and (3) failure caused by external factors. The failure percentages in these categories are 62.0%, 32.2%, and 5.8%, respectively.

Conclusions:

The presence of specific lung diseases (e.g., pulmonary nodules, ILD, and pneumonia) is the primary issue in computerized lung segmentation. The segmentation failures caused by external factors and anatomy variety are relatively low but unavoidable in practice. It is desirable to develop robust schemes to handle these issues in a single pass when a large number of CT examinations need to be analyzed.
In the Public Interest?
Authors: Sayres Lauren C. , Allyse Megan , Goodspeed Taylor A. , Cho Mildred K.
Published: July 2012

Restrictive patenting and licensing for cell-free fetal DNA testing has serious consequences for technology advances and benefits to public health.
Another Smoking Gun
Authors: Calfee Carolyn S.
Published: July 2012

Nicotine mediates the development of abdominal aortic aneurysms.
Bridging the Gap for Small-Diameter Vascular Grafts
Authors: Baker Aaron B.
Published: July 2012

A new synthetic, cell-free vascular graft may provide a way to bypass blockages in small arteries.
A Pill a Day Keeps HIV Away
Authors: Barnabas Ruanne V.
Published: July 2012

An FDA-approved daily pill may prevent HIV infection among at-risk individuals.
Enterococcus faecalis Produces Abundant Extracellular Structures Containing DNA in the Absence of Cell Lysis during Early Biofilm Formation
Authors: Barnes Aaron M. T. , Ballering Katie S. , Leibman Rachel S. , Wells Carol L. , Dunny Gary M.
Published: July 2012

Enterococcus faecalis
is a common Gram-positive commensal bacterium of the metazoan gastrointestinal tract capable of biofilm formation and an opportunistic pathogen of increasing clinical concern. Dogma has held that biofilms are slow-growing structures, often taking days to form mature microcolonies. Here we report that extracellular DNA (eDNA) is an integral structural component of early
E. faecalis
biofilms (≤4 h postinoculation). Combining cationic dye-based biofilm matrix stabilization techniques with correlative immuno-scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescent techniques, we demonstrate that—in early
E. faecalis
biofilms—eDNA localizes to previously undescribed intercellular filamentous structures, as well as to thick mats of extruded extracellular matrix material. Both of these results are consistent with previous reports that early biofilms are exquisitely sensitive to exogenous DNase treatment. High-resolution SEM demonstrates a punctate labeling pattern in both structures, suggesting the presence of an additional, non-DNA constituent. Notably, the previously described fratricidal or lytic mechanism reported as the source of eDNA in older (≥24 h)
E. faecalis
biofilms does not appear to be at work under these conditions; extensive visual examination by SEM revealed a striking lack of lysed cells, and bulk biochemical assays also support an absence of significant lysis at these early time points. In addition, some cells demonstrated eDNA labeling localized at the septum, suggesting the possibility of DNA secretion from metabolically active cells. Overall, these data are consistent with a model in which a subpopulation of viable
E. faecalis
cells secrete or extrude DNA into the extracellular matrix.

IMPORTANCE
This paper reports the production of extracellular DNA during early biofilm formation in
Enterococcus faecalis
. The work is significant because the mechanism of eDNA (extracellular DNA) production is independent of cell lysis and the DNA is confined to well-defined structures, suggesting a novel form of DNA secretion by viable cells. Previous models of biofilm formation in enterococci and related species propose cell lysis as the mechanism of DNA release.