bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-Listing Audit Fee Premiums: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Choi Jong-Hag , Kim Jeong-Bon , Liu Xiaohong , Simunic Dan A.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: We study the effects of cross-listings on audit fees. We first develop a model in which legal environments play a crucial role in determining the auditor's legal liability. Our model and analysis predict that auditors charge higher fees for firms that are cross-listed in countries with stronger legal regimes than they do for non-cross-listed firms and that the cross-listing audit fee premium increases with the difference in the strength of legal regimes between the cross-listed foreign country and the home country. We then empirically test these predictions. The results of our cross-country regressions strongly support our predictions. In addition, we find no significant cross-listing fee premium for firms that are cross-listed in countries whose legal regimes are. no stronger than those of their home countries. This suggests that cross-listing audit fee premiums are associated with increased legal liability and not with increased audit complexity per se. Our findings help explain why cross-listing premiums occur and what determines their magnitude.
Big 4 Office Size and Audit Quality
Authors: Francis Jere R. , Yu Michael D.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: Larger offices of Big 4 auditors are predicted to have higher quality audits for SEC registrants due to greater in-house experience in administering such audits. We test this prediction by examining a sample of 6,568 U.S. firm-year observations for the period 2003–2005 and audited by 285 unique Big 4 offices. Results are consistent with larger offices providing higher quality audits. Specifically, larger offices are more likely to issue going-concern audit reports, and clients in larger offices evidence less aggressive earnings management behavior. These findings are robust to extensive controls for client risk factors and to controls for other auditor characteristics. While the evidence suggests audit quality is higher on average in larger Big 4 offices, we make no claims that audit quality is unacceptably low in smaller offices.
Accounting Discretion, Horizon Problem, and CEO Retirement Benefits
Authors: Kalyta Paul
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: Empirical research on the impact of managerial retirement on discretionary accounting choices is inconclusive, with most studies finding no evidence of earnings management in the pre-retirement period. I argue that income-increasing accounting choices in final pre-retirement years are particularly appealing to managers whose pension depends on firm performance in these years. Using primary data on retired CEOs of Fortune 1000 firms, I investigate the impact of CEO pension plans on discretionary accruals. Consistent with the prediction, I find evidence of income-increasing earnings management in the pre-retirement period only when CEO pension is based on firm performance. I also report evidence of negative abnormal market reaction to CEO retirement in firms with performance-contingent CEO pensions.
A Modified Audit Production Framework: Evaluating the Relative Efficiency of Audit Engagements
Authors: Knechel W. Robert , Rouse Paul , Schelleman Caren
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: We develop a model of audit production based on Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) using labor cost as input and hours spent on evidence-gathering activities that determine the level of assurance as output. Client characteristics are considered exogenous factors that affect audit production as a whole. We apply the model to a sample of U.S.-based engagements from an international accounting firm. Results indicate that a constrained DEA model using variable returns to scale is appropriate for modeling audit production. We find that audits are more efficient for clients that are larger, have a December year-end, and are highly automated. Audits are less efficient when the auditor relies on internal control, tax services are provided, and the client has subsidiaries. We also find that a well-specified regression-based production model can control for factors that influence auditor efficiency. Finally, we find that inefficiencies are impounded in fees for some industries and firm offices.
The Effect of Disclosures by Management, Analysts, and Business Press on Cost of Capital, Return Volatility, and Analyst Forecasts: A Study Using Content Analysis
Authors: Kothari S. P. , Li Xu , Short James E.
Published: September 2009

ABSTRACT: We document systematic evidence of risk effects of disclosures culled from a virtually exhaustive set of sources from the print medium. We content analyze more than 100,000 disclosure reports by management, analysts, and news reporters (i.e., business press) in constructing firm-specific disclosure measures that are quantitative and amenable to replication. We expect credibility and timeliness differences in the disclosures by source, which would translate into differential cost of capital effects. We find that when content analysis indicates favorable disclosures, the firm's risk, as proxied by the cost of capital, stock return volatility, and analyst forecast dispersion, declines significantly. In contrast, unfavorable disclosures are accompanied by significant increases in risk measures. Analysis of disclosures by source—corporations, analysts, and the business press—reveals that negative disclosures from business press sources result in increased cost of capital and return volatility, and favorable reports from business press reduce the cost of capital and return volatility.
Low-Fat Versus Low-Carbohydrate Weight Reduction Diets
Authors: Bradley Una , Spence Michelle , Courtney C. Hamish , McKinley Michelle C. , Ennis Cieran N. , McCance David R. , McEneny Jane , Bell Patrick M. , Young Ian S. , Hunter Steven J.
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVE

Low-fat hypocaloric diets reduce insulin resistance and prevent type 2 diabetes in those at risk. Low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets are advocated as an alternative, but reciprocal increases in dietary fat may have detrimental effects on insulin resistance and offset the benefits of weight reduction.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We investigated a low-fat (20% fat, 60% carbohydrate) versus a low-carbohydrate (60% fat, 20% carbohydrate) weight reduction diet in 24 overweight/obese subjects ([mean ± SD] BMI 33.6 ± 3.7 kg/m2, aged 39 ± 10 years) in an 8-week randomized controlled trial. All food was weighed and distributed, and intake was calculated to produce a 500 kcal/day energy deficit. Insulin action was assessed by the euglycemic clamp and insulin secretion by meal tolerance test. Body composition, adipokine levels, and vascular compliance by pulse-wave analysis were also measured.

RESULTS

Significant weight loss occurred in both groups (P < 0.01), with no difference between groups (P = 0.40). Peripheral glucose uptake increased, but there was no difference between groups (P = 0.28), and suppression of endogenous glucose production was also similar between groups. Meal tolerance–related insulin secretion decreased with weight loss with no difference between groups (P = 0.71). The change in overall systemic arterial stiffness was, however, significantly different between diets (P = 0.04); this reflected a significant decrease in augmentation index following the low-fat diet, compared with a nonsignificant increase within the low-carbohydrate group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates comparable effects on insulin resistance of low-fat and low-carbohydrate diets independent of macronutrient content. The difference in augmentation index may imply a negative effect of low-carbohydrate diets on vascular risk.
The microRNA Signature in Response to Insulin Reveals Its Implication in the Transcriptional Action of Insulin in Human Skeletal Muscle and the Role of a Sterol Regulatory Element–Binding Protein-1c/Myocyte Enhancer Factor 2C Pathway
Authors: Granjon Aurélie , Gustin Marie-Paule , Rieusset Jennifer , Lefai Etienne , Meugnier Emmanuelle , Güller Isabelle , Cerutti Catherine , Paultre Christian , Disse Emmanuel , Rabasa-Lhoret Rémi , Laville Martine , Vidal Hubert , Rome Sophie
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVE

Factors governing microRNA expressions in response to changes of cellular environment are still largely unknown. Our aim was to determine whether insulin, the major hormone controlling whole-body energy homeostasis, is involved in the regulation of microRNA expressions in human skeletal muscle.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We carried out comparative microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles in human skeletal muscle biopsies before and after a 3-h euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp, with TaqMan low-density arrays. Then, using DNA microarrays, we determined the response to insulin of the miRNA putative target genes in order to determine their role in the transcriptional action of insulin. We further characterized the mechanism of action of insulin on two representative miRNAs, miR-1 and miR-133a, in human muscle cells.

RESULTS

Insulin downregulated the expressions of 39 distinct miRNAs in human skeletal muscle. Their potential target mRNAs coded for proteins that were mainly involved in insulin signaling and ubiquitination-mediated proteolysis. Bioinformatic analysis suggested that combinations of different downregulated miRNAs worked in concert to regulate gene expressions in response to insulin. We further demonstrated that sterol regulatory element–binding protein (SREBP)-1c and myocyte enhancer factor 2C were involved in the effect of insulin on miR-1 and miR-133a expression. Interestingly, we found an impaired regulation of miRNAs by insulin in the skeletal muscle of type 2 diabetic patients, likely as consequences of altered SREBP-1c activation.

CONCLUSIONS

This work demonstrates a new role of insulin in the regulation of miRNAs in human skeletal muscle and suggests a possible implication of these new modulators in insulin resistance.
Deletion of GPR40 Impairs Glucose-Induced Insulin Secretion In Vivo in Mice Without Affecting Intracellular Fuel Metabolism in Islets
Authors: Alquier Thierry , Peyot Marie-Line , Latour Martin G. , Kebede Melkam , Sorensen Christina M. , Gesta Stephane , Ronald Kahn C. , Smith Richard D. , Jetton Thomas L. , Metz Thomas O. , Prentki Marc , Poitout Vincent
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVE

The G-protein–coupled receptor GPR40 mediates fatty acid potentiation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, but its contribution to insulin secretion in vivo and mechanisms of action remain uncertain. This study was aimed to ascertain whether GPR40 controls insulin secretion in vivo and modulates intracellular fuel metabolism in islets.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Insulin secretion and sensitivity were assessed in GPR40 knockout mice and their wild-type littermates by hyperglycemic clamps and hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamps, respectively. Transcriptomic analysis, metabolic studies, and lipid profiling were used to ascertain whether GPR40 modulates intracellular fuel metabolism in islets.

RESULTS

Both glucose- and arginine-stimulated insulin secretion in vivo were decreased by ∼60% in GPR40 knockout fasted and fed mice, without changes in insulin sensitivity. Neither gene expression profiles nor intracellular metabolism of glucose and palmitate in isolated islets were affected by GPR40 deletion. Lipid profiling of isolated islets revealed that the increase in triglyceride and decrease in lyso-phosphatidylethanolamine species in response to palmitate in vitro was similar in wild-type and knockout islets. In contrast, the increase in intracellular inositol phosphate levels observed in wild-type islets in response to fatty acids in vitro was absent in knockout islets.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that deletion of GPR40 impairs insulin secretion in vivo not only in response to fatty acids but also to glucose and arginine, without altering intracellular fuel metabolism in islets, via a mechanism that may involve the generation of inositol phosphates downstream of GPR40 activation.
Glucose Deprivation Regulates KATP Channel Trafficking via AMP-Activated Protein Kinase in Pancreatic β-Cells
Authors: Lim Ajin , Park Sun-Hyun , Sohn Jong-Woo , Jeon Ju-Hong , Park Jae-Hyung , Song Dae-Kyu , Lee Suk-Ho , Ho Won-Kyung
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVE

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel are metabolic sensors that become activated during metabolic stress. AMPK is an important regulator of metabolism, whereas the KATP channel is a regulator of cellular excitability. Cross talk between these systems is poorly understood.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Rat pancreatic β-cells or INS-1 cells were pretreated for 2 h at various concentrations of glucose. Maximum KATP conductance (Gmax) was monitored by whole-cell measurements after intracellular ATP washout using ATP-free internal solutions. KATP channel activity (NPo) was monitored by inside-out patch recordings in the presence of diazoxide. Distributions of KATP channel proteins (Kir6.2 and SUR1) were examined using immunofluorescence imaging and surface biotinylation studies. Insulin secretion from rat pancreatic islets was measured using an enzyme immunoassay.

RESULTS

Gmax and NPo in cells pretreated with glucose-free or 3 mmol/l glucose solutions were significantly higher than in cells pretreated in 11.1 mmol/l glucose solutions. Immunofluorescence imaging and biotinylation studies revealed that glucose deprivation induced an increase in the surface level of Kir6.2 without affecting the total cellular amount. Increases in Gmax and the surface level of Kir6.2 were inhibited by compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, and siAMPK transfection. The effects of glucose deprivation on KATP channels were mimicked by an AMPK activator. Glucose deprivation reduced insulin secretion, but this response was attenuated by compound C.

CONCLUSIONS

KATP channel trafficking is regulated by energy status via AMPK, and this mechanism may play a key role in inhibiting insulin secretion under low energy status.
Haptoglobin Genotype and Renal Function Decline in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Costacou Tina , Ferrell Robert E. , Ellis Demetrius , Orchard Trevor J.
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVE

Haptoglobin (Hp) binds free Hb, inhibiting Hb-induced oxidative damage. As oxidative stress has been associated with microvascular complications, we evaluated the relationship between Hp genotype and microalbuminuria, macroalbuminuria, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and early renal function decline in type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants from the Epidemiology of Diabetes Complications Study with DNA available were studied for the incidence of microalbuminuria (albumin excretion rate [AER] 20–200 μg/min), macroalbuminuria (AER >200 μg/min), ESRD (renal dialysis or transplantation), and renal function decline (a decline ≥30 ml/min per 1.73 m2 from baseline estimated [by the Cockcroft-Gault equation] glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] in those with baseline eGFR >60 ml/min per 1.73 m2).

RESULTS

The proportions with the Hp 2/2, 2/1, and 1/1 genotype were 43.4, 44.4, and 12.1%, respectively. During 18 years of follow-up, the incidence of eGFR decline, microalbuminuria, macroalbuminuria, and ESRD was 42.0, 40.5, 16.7, and 12.2%, respectively. No significant univariate differences were observed by Hp genotype. However, in multivariable Cox models, an ∼twofold increased risk was observed for the Hp 2/2 compared with the Hp 1/1 genotype for eGFR decline (hazard ratio 1.79 [95% CI 1.06–3.00]) and ESRD (2.74 [1.17–6.45]); no significant associations were observed for microalbuminuria or macroalbuminuria.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that although Hp genotype is not associated with albuminuria per se, it may be an independent determinant of early renal function decline and progression to ESRD. Understanding these apparent contradictory findings may provide further insight into the pathogenesis of renal disease in type 1 diabetes.
Psychosocial Stress at Work Doubles the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Heraclides Alexandros , Chandola Tarani , Witte Daniel R. , Brunner Eric J.
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of psychosocial stress at work on risk of type 2 diabetes, adjusting for conventional risk factors, among a sample of British, white-collar, middle-aged men and women.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a prospective analysis (1991–2004) from the Whitehall II cohort study. The current sample consists of 5,895 Caucasian middle-aged civil servants free from diabetes at baseline. Type 2 diabetes was ascertained by an oral glucose tolerance test supplemented by self-reports at baseline and four consecutive waves of data collection including two screening phases. The job strain and iso-strain models were used to assess psychosocial work stress.

RESULTS

Iso-strain in the workplace was associated with a twofold higher risk of type 2 diabetes in age-adjusted analysis in women but not in men (hazard ratio 1.94 [95% CI 1.17–3.21). This effect remained robust to adjustment for socioeconomic position and outside work stressors and was only attenuated by 20% after adjustment for health behaviors, obesity, and other type 2 diabetes risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychosocial work stress was an independent predictor of type 2 diabetes among women after a 15-year follow-up. This association was not explained by potential confounding and mediating factors. More evidence from prospective studies using the same work stress models is needed to support the current findings and provide further information on sex differences.
Reduction of Tire Groove Noise Using Slot Resonators
Authors: Fujiwara S. , Yumii K. , Saguchi T. , Kato K.
Published: September 2009

Circumferential tire grooves form pipes in the contact patch and generate the nuisance noise, for which the fundamental natural frequency is approximately 1000 Hz for passenger car tires. The frequency coincides with the peak of pass-by noise spectrum. Therefore, controlling the groove resonance is of a main motivation of this paper to reduce environmental noise. If one lateral slot end is terminated in tread rib and if the other end merges to a circumferential groove, it is found that the slot performs as a side-branch or a Helmholtz subresonator to counteract to the pipe resonance. The slot parameters, such as cavity volume and the change in section area, determine the resonant frequency and effectively influence on the acoustic characteristics of whole groove space. Optimal slot geometry is widely investigated by using numerical analysis and validated by experiments. It is shown that the proposed tread design can significantly reduce groove noise without sacrificing other performances.
Structure and Parameterization of MF-Swift, a Magic Formula-based Rigid Ring Tire Model
Authors: Schmeitz A. J. C. , Versteden W. D.
Published: September 2009

Vehicle dynamic simulations require accurate, fast, reliable, and easy-to-parameterize tire models. For this purpose, TNO developed MF-Swift in close cooperation with the technical universities of Delft and Eindhoven. MF-Swift is based on the well-known magic formula model of Pacejka but extending to higher frequencies (60–100 Hz), shorter wavelengths (>0.2 m), and rolling over obstacles by adding a rigid ring and obstacle enveloping model. During the development of MF-Swift, great emphasis was given to experimental validation using dedicated laboratory experiments. With increasing use of MF-Swift in the automotive industry, easy and reliable parameterization has become more important. Therefore, recent efforts have focused on improving the parameter identification process so that it can be conducted with little user interaction and with measurements obtained from industry common test facilities. This paper will discuss the theory behind the improved MF-Swift parameter identification process.
Evaluation of quantitative trait loci for hip dysplasia in Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Phavaphutanon Janjira , Mateescu Raluca G. , Tsai Kate L. , Schweitzer Peter A. , Corey Elizabeth E. , Vernier-Singer Margaret A. , Williams Alma J. , Dykes Nathan L. , Murphy Keith E. , Lust George , Todhunter Rory J.
Published: September 2009

Objective—To identify the quantitative trait loci (QTL) that contribute to hip dysplasia in dogs.

Animals—192 Labrador Retrievers.

Procedures—Hip dysplasia was measured by use of the Norberg angle (NA), dorsolateral subluxation (DLS) score, and distraction index (DI). Genome-wide screening was conducted by use of 276 unique microsatellites. Linkage analysis was performed with a variance-based linear model. Logarithm of the odds (LOD) scores were reported when values were > 2.0.

Results—Canis familiaris autosomes (CFAs) 01, 02, 10, 20, 22, and 32 harbored significant QTL at LOD scores > 2.0. Among the 6 QTL, the QTL on CFA02 had not been reported to harbor QTL for hip dysplasia. The highest LOD score of 3.32 on CFA20 contributed to the second principal component of the DLS score and NA of the right hip joint. The QTL that was mapped on CFA01 (LOD score of 3.13 at 55 centimorgans) was located on the same chromosome reported to harbor a QTL for hip dysplasia in Portuguese Water Dogs and German Shepherd Dogs. In this study, CFAs 10, 20, 22, and 32 harbored QTL for hip dysplasia that have been identified in a Labrador Retriever–Greyhound pedigree and in German Shepherd Dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Multiple QTL were clearly involved with hip dysplasia. Identification of these QTL will enable fine-resolution mapping and subsequent assessment of candidate genes within the refined intervals to enable researchers to develop genetic screening tests and preventative and novel therapeutic regimens.
Comparison of clonal relatedness and antimicrobial susceptibility of fecal Escherichia coli from healthy dogs and their owners
Authors: Stenske Katherine A. , Bemis David A. , Gillespie Barbara E. , D'Souza Doris H. , Oliver Stephen P. , Draughon Francis A. , Matteson Karla J. , Bartges Joseph W.
Published: September 2009

Objective—To determine prevalence of within-household sharing of fecal Escherichia coli between dogs and their owners on the basis of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), compare antimicrobial susceptibility between isolates from dogs and their owners, and evaluate epidemiologic features of cross-species sharing by use of a questionnaire.

Sample Population—61 healthy dog-owner pairs and 30 healthy control humans.

Procedures—3 fecal E coli colonies were isolated from each participant; PFGE profiles were used to establish relatedness among bacterial isolates. Susceptibility to 17 antimicrobials was determined via disk diffusion. A questionnaire was used to evaluate signalment, previous antimicrobial therapy, hygiene, and relationship with dog.

Results—A wide array of PFGE profiles was observed in E coli isolates from all participants. Within-household sharing occurred with 9.8% prevalence, and across-household sharing occurred with 0.3% prevalence. No behaviors were associated with increased clonal sharing between dog and owner. No differences were found in susceptibility results between dog-owner pairs. Control isolates were more likely than canine isolates to be resistant to ampicillin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Owners and control humans carried more multdrug-resistant E coli than did dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Within-household sharing of E coli was detected more commonly than across-household sharing, but both direct contact and environmental reservoirs may be routes of cross-species sharing of bacteria and genes for resistance. Cross-species bacterial sharing is a potential public health concern, and good hygiene is recommended.
Effect of the viral protein Npro on virulence of bovine viral diarrhea virus and induction of interferon type I in calves
Authors: Henningson Jamie N. , Topliff Christina L. , Gil Laura H. V. , Donis Ruben O. , Steffen David J. , Charleston Bryan , Eskridge Kent M. , Kelling Clayton L.
Published: September 2009

Objective—To characterize the influence of the viral protein Npro on virulence of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and on type I interferon responses in calves.

Animals—10 calves, 4 to 6 months of age.

Procedures—BVDV virulence and type I interferon responses of calves (n = 5) infected with a noncytopathic BVDV with a deleted Npro were compared with those of calves (5) infected with a noncytopathic BVDV with a functional Npro. Rectal temperatures, clinical signs, platelet counts, and total and differential WBC counts were evaluted daily. Histologic examinations and immunohistochemical analyses of tissues were conducted to assess lesions and distribution of viral antigens, respectively. Serum type I interferon concentrations were determined.

Results—Calves infected with Npro-deleted BVDV developed leukopenia and lymphopenia, without developing increased rectal temperatures or lymphoid depletion of target lymphoid organs. There was minimal antigen deposition in lymphoid organs. Calves infected with Npro BVDV developed increased rectal temperatures, leukopenia, lymphopenia, and lymphoid depletion with marked BVDV antigen deposition in lymphatic tissues. Interferon type I responses were detected in both groups of calves.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Deletion of Npro resulted in attenuation of BVDV as evidenced by reduced virulence in calves, compared with BVDV with a functional Npro. Deletion of Npro did not affect induction of type I interferon. The Npro-deleted BVDV mutant may represent a safe noncytopathic virus candidate for vaccine development.
Quantitative differences in activities of back and pelvic limb muscles during walking and trotting between chronically lame and nonlame horses
Authors: Zaneb Hafsa , Kaufmann Verena , Stanek Christian , Peham Christian , Licka Theresia F.
Published: September 2009

Objective—To assess differences in activities of back and pelvic limb muscles by use of surface electromyography (SEMG) in chronically lame and nonlame horses during walking and trotting.

Animals—12 nonlame horses and 12 horses with unilateral chronic mild to moderate pelvic limb lameness.

Procedures—On each horse, bipolar electrodes were attached to the skin over the midpoints of the right and left longissimus thoracis (Lot), semitendinosus (Set), biceps femoris (Bif), gluteus medius (Glm), and extensor digitorum longus (Edl) muscles. For each muscle, synchronous kinematic and SEMG recordings were made during walking and trotting on a treadmill; mean, maximum, and minimum muscle activities and maximum-to-mean and minimum-to-mean activity ratios were determined. For each lame or nonlame horse, data from both pelvic limbs were averaged; in lame horses, data from the nonlame and lame pelvic limbs were also examined separately (NL-L and L-L values, respectively). Comparisons were made among the 4 data sets and between gaits.

Results—During walking, the NL-L maximum-to-mean ratios for Bif and Glm muscles were significantly greater and in lame horses, L-L and NL-L minimum-to-mean ratios for Set, Bif, Glm, and Lot muscles were significantly less than those for nonlame horses. During trotting, minimum-to-mean ratios for Set, Glm, and Lot muscles in lame horses were significantly lower than those for nonlame horses. Activity of the Edl muscle was not affected by lameness.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In lame horses, variation in muscle use was detectable via SEMG. In chronically lame horses, back and pelvic limb muscle activities were affected differently during walking and trotting.
Effect of radiation on vascular endothelial growth factor expression in the C2 canine mastocytoma cell line
Authors: Sekis Ivana , Gerner Wilhelm , Willmann Michael , Rebuzzi Laura , Tichy Alexander , Patzl Martina , Thalhammer Johann G. , Saalmüller Armin , Kleiter Miriam M.
Published: September 2009

Objective—To establish the radiosensitivity and effect of irradiation on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF receptor (VEGFR) expression in the canine mastocytoma cell line C2.

Sample Population—Canine mastocytoma cell line C2.

Procedures—C2 cells were irradiated with single doses of 2, 4, 6, and 8 Gy. The 3-(4, 5-di-methyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay and proliferation assays with (methyl-hydrogen 3) thymidine were used for radiosensitivity experiments. Expression of VEGFR was determined via flow cytometry and apoptotic rate via annexin assay. Human and canine VEGF ELISA kits were evaluated in crossover assay experiments, and the canine kit was used thereafter.

Results—C2 cells secreted VEGF constitutively. Radiation did not induce a significant increase in VEGF secretion, regardless of radiation dose. Consistently, radiation did not up-regulate VEGFR. Cell survival rates decreased in a dose-dependent manner. The apoptotic cell fraction had a dose-dependent increase that reached its maximum 24 to 48 hours after radiation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The C2 cell line was radiosensitive, and a fraction (up to 40%) of cells died via apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. In response to radiation, C2 cells did not upregulate VEGF production or VEGFR. Further studies are needed to determine whether tumor control could be improved by combining radiotherapy with VEGFR inhibitors or apoptosis-modulating agents.
Effect of body position on respiratory system volumes in anesthetized red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) as measured via computed tomography
Authors: Malka Shachar , Hawkins Michelle G. , Jones James H. , Pascoe Peter J. , Kass Philip H. , Wisner Erik R.
Published: September 2009

Objective—To determine the effects of body position on lung and air-sac volumes in anesthetized and spontaneously breathing red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis).

Animals—6 adult red-tailed hawks (sex unknown).

Procedures—A crossover study design was used for quantitative estimation of lung and air-sac volumes in anesthetized hawks in 3 body positions: dorsal, right lateral, and sternal recumbency. Lung volume, lung density, and air-sac volume were calculated from helical computed tomographic (CT) images by use of software designed for volumetric analysis of CT data. Effects of body position were compared by use of repeated-measures ANOVA and a paired Student t test.

Results—Results for all pairs of body positions were significantly different from each other. Mean ± SD lung density was lowest when hawks were in sternal recumbency (–677 ± 28 CT units), followed by right lateral (–647 ± 23 CT units) and dorsal (–630 ± 19 CT units) recumbency. Mean lung volume was largest in sternal recumbency (28.6 ± 1.5 mL), followed by right lateral (27.6 ± 1.7 mL) and dorsal (27.0 ± 1.5 mL) recumbency. Mean partial air-sac volume was largest in sternal recumbency (27.0 ± 19.3 mL), followed by right lateral (21.9 ± 16.1 mL) and dorsal (19.3 ± 16.9 mL) recumbency.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In anesthetized red-tailed hawks, positioning in sternal recumbency resulted in the greatest lung and air-sac volumes and lowest lung density, compared with positioning in right lateral and dorsal recumbency. Additional studies are necessary to determine the physiologic effects of body position on the avian respiratory system.
Comparison of the amounts of air leakage into the thoracic cavity associated with four thoracostomy tube placement techniques in canine cadavers
Authors: Yoon Hun-Young , Mann F. A. , Lee Suhwon , Branson Keith R.
Published: September 2009

Objective—To compare the amount of air leakage into the thoracic cavity associated with each of 4 thoracostomy tube placement techniques in canine cadavers.

Sample Population—28 canine cadavers.

Procedures—Thoracostomy tube placement techniques (7 cadavers/technique) included subcutaneous tunneling with a silicone tube by use of Carmalt forceps or with a polyvinyl chloride tube by use of a trocar (SC-CARM and SC-TRO, respectively) and tunneling under the latissimus dorsi muscle with similar tube-instrument techniques (LD-CARM and LD-TRO, respectively). Differences in intrapleural pressures (IPPs) measured before and after tube placement and before and after tube removal were calculated; duration of air leakage around the tubes was assessed by use of a 3-chamber thoracic drainage system.

Results—Tunneling method and depth had no interaction effect on the difference in IPP measured before and after tube placement; the IPP difference for both forceps technique groups was significantly greater than findings for both trocar technique groups. Tunneling method and depth had an interaction effect on the difference in IPP measured before and after tube removal; compared with SC-TRO and LD-CARM group differences, the SC-CARM group difference was significantly greater, but the LD-TRO group difference was similar. More intermittent air leakage was associated with the 2 forceps techniques than with the 2 trocar techniques.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Trocar-implemented thoracostomy tube placement in canine cadavers resulted in less air leakage than the forceps method. Air leakage upon tube removal was less pronounced for the LD-CARM technique than the SC-CARM technique. The LD-TRO technique is recommended to prevent iatrogenic pneumothorax in dogs.
Detection of Babesia gibsoni and the canine small Babesia ‘Spanish isolate’ in blood samples obtained from dogs confiscated from dogfighting operations
Authors: Yeagley Todd J. , Reichard Mason V. , Hempstead Julie E. , Allen Kelly E. , Parsons Lindsey M. , White Mellanie A. , Little Susan E. , Meinkoth James H.
Published: September 2009

Objective—To determine the prevalence of Babesia gibsoni infection in dogs that were confiscated from dogfighting operations.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—157 pit bull–type dogs that were confiscated as part of dogfighting prosecution cases in Iowa, Michigan, Mississippi, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington and 218 randomly selected animal shelter dogs with no known history of dogfighting.

Procedures—Blood samples collected from confiscated dogs were tested for infection with B gibsoni by use of a nested PCR assay. Samples that yielded positive results underwent DNA sequencing to confirm infection with B gibsoni. Control blood samples collected from 218 randomly selected dogs in animal shelters (ie, dogs that had no known involvement in dogfighting events) were also analyzed.

Results—Results of nested PCR assays indicated that 53 of 157 (33.8%) confiscated dogs were infected with B gibsoni; 1 (0.6%) dog was infected with the canine small Babesia ‘Spanish isolate’ (also known as Theileria annae). To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of infection with this small Babesia ‘Spanish isolate’ in a North American dog. Dogs with scars (indicative of fighting) on the face, head, and forelimbs were 5.5 times as likely to be infected with B gibsoni as were dogs without scars. Of the control dogs, 1 (0.5%) pit bull–type dog was infected with B gibsoni.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that B gibsoni is a common parasite of dogs confiscated from dogfighting operations and suggested that dogs with a history of fighting should be evaluated for infection with B gibsoni.
An investigation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonization in people and pets in the same household with an infected person or infected pet
Authors: Faires Meredith C. , Tater Kathy C. , Weese J. Scott
Published: September 2009

Objective—To investigate the prevalence of concurrent methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization in people and pets in the same household with a person or pet with an MRSA infection and to compare MRSA isolates by use of molecular techniques.

Design—2 cross-sectional evaluations conducted concurrently.

Sample Population—24 dogs, 10 cats, and 56 humans in part 1 and 21 dogs, 4 cats, and 16 humans in part 2 of the study.

Procedures—In both parts of the study, nasal swab specimens were collected from humans and nasal and rectal swab specimens were collected from household pets. Selective culture for MRSA was performed, and isolates were typed via pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and spa typing. Households were defined as positive when MRSA was isolated from at least 1 person (part 1) or 1 pet (part 2).

Results—In part 1, 6 of 22 (27.3%) households were identified with MRSA colonization in a person. In these households, 10 of 56 (17.9%) humans, 2 of 24 (8.3%) dogs, and 1 of 10 (10%) cats were colonized with MRSA. In part 2, only 1 of 8 households was identified with MRSA colonization in a pet. Most MRSA isolates obtained from humans and pets in the same household were indistinguishable by use of PFGE.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The high prevalence of concurrent MRSA colonization as well as identification of indistinguishable strains in humans and pet dogs and cats in the same household suggested that interspecies transmission of MRSA is possible. Longitudinal studies are required to identify factors associated with interspecies transmission.
Increasing the lateral resolution of scanning microscopes by a factor of two using 2-Image microscopy
Authors: Sandeau Nicolas , Wawrezinieck Laure , Ferrand Patrick , Giovannini Hugues , Rigneault Hervé
Published: September 2009

Increasing the resolution of optical microscopes is a challenging task for studying the cell machinery at the molecular level. 4Pi or Total internal-reflection fluorescent microscopy (TIRF) microscopies permit one to reduce the axial dimension of the detection volume. To reduce its lateral dimension, we have proposed a solution in which the scanning head of a 4Pi microscope or of a confocal microscope is coupled to an interferometer. With this technique two beams coming from the source produce two images that are superimposed coherently. For this reason, one can call this technique 2-Image microscopy. It has been shown that with 2-Image microscopy, the complete use of the spatial frequencies collected by the objective allows to reach a 1.22λ/4NA lateral resolution as defined by Rayleigh. This improvement is independent of the excitation mode and is effective with incoherent light such as fluorescent or chemiluminescent (i.e. without optical excitation) samples. In this paper, we present an interferometric set-up and a modulation technique that make benefit fully from the advantages of 2-Image microscopy.
William Empson: Two New Tropes?
Authors: Reid David
Published: September 2009

In The Structure of Complex Words, Empson distinguishes Mutual Comparison from Mutual Metaphor. This distinction does not hold. There is only one trope, but one, lit up by Empsonian analysis, well worth study. Both Mutual Comparison and Mutual Metaphor turn on part-for-whole relations rather than on metaphorical ones of comparison. With Mutual Comparison, vehicle and tenor are so fused as to suggest, not so much comparison, as a sharing in an encompassing generality; with Mutual Metaphor, the hierarchical relation of vehicle and tenor collapses into an equal relation of two parts, each standing for a whole, an elusive ground encompassing both. With both figures, the relation to a greater whole suggests being in touch with the nature of things, an approach to the pantheistic ground Empson declared might alone be worshipped without shame. Especially attractive in Empson's explorations is that, in analyzing the tricks of language, he accepts these tricks as ways the mind naturally works.
Exis-tensions: Surviving theRed ShoesSyndrome in Margaret Atwood'sLady Oracle
Authors: Kapuscinski Kiley
Published: September 2009

As the earliest and most sustained of Atwood's attempts to examine the potentially deadly conflict between a woman's artistry and female identities, Lady Oracle has often been read as a text that must necessarily be considered alongside Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger's influential film, The Red Shoes. Yet absent from previous analyses is a discussion of how this conflict is perpetuated though the female artist tradition, and how Joan Delacourt's habitual overeating indicates her self-destruction, rather than her self-empowerment, in the face of conflict. Moreover, while Joan's obesity aligns with the self-harm anticipated by what Atwood terms ‘the Red Shoes syndrome,’ her projecting her creative talents onto alternate identities can be read as a dissociative survival strategy that, for a time, permits her to maintain her divided identity as a woman artist. keep silent and avoid red shoes, red stockings, dancing. Dancing in red shoes will kill you. Atwood, Two-Headed In [the Victorian Period], a woman writer was a freak, an oddity, a suspicious character. How much of that sentiment lingers on today, I will leave you to ask yourselves … Atwood, ‘The Curse’
Endoscopic pituitary surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tabaee Abtin , Anand Vijay K. , Barrón Yolanda , Hiltzik David H. , Brown Seth M. , Kacker Ashutosh , Mazumdar Madhu , Schwartz Theodore H.
Published: September 2009

Object

Surgery on the pituitary gland is increasingly being performed through an endoscopic approach. However, there is little published data on its safety and relative advantages over traditional microscope-based approaches. Published reports are limited by small sample size and nonrandomized study design. A meta-analysis allows for a description of the impact of endoscopic surgery on short-term outcomes.

Methods

The authors performed retrospective review of data from their institution as well as a systematic review of the literature. The pooled data were analyzed for descriptive statistics on short-term outcomes.

Results

Nine studies (821 patients) met inclusion criteria. Overall, the pooled rate of gross tumor removal was 78% (95% CI 67–89%). Hormone resolution was achieved in 81% (95% CI 71–91%) of adrenocorticotropic hormone secreting tumors, 84% (95% CI 76–92%) of growth hormone secreting tumors, and 82% (95% CI 70–94%) of prolactin secreting tumors. The pooled complication rates were 2% (95% CI 0–4%) for CSF leak and 1% (95% CI 0–2%) for permanent diabetes insipidus. There were 2 deaths reported in the literature that were both related to vascular injury, giving an overall mortality rate of 0.24%.

Conclusions

The results of this meta-analysis support the safety and short-term efficacy of endoscopic pituitary surgery. Future studies with long-term follow-up are required to determine tumor control.
Gamma Knife surgery for brain metastases from gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Silva Arnaldo Neves Da , Nagayama Kazuki , Schlesinger David J. , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: September 2009

Object

Brain metastases from gastrointestinal cancers are rare. However, the incidence is increasing because patients with gastrointestinal carcinoma tend to live longer due to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment of systemic disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) for the treatment of brain metastases from gastrointestinal cancers.

Methods

The authors performed a retrospective review of 40 patients (18 women and 22 men) who had undergone GKS to treat a total of 118 metastases from gastrointestinal cancers between January 1996 and December 2006. The mean patient age was 58.7 years, and the mean Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) score was 70. There were 7 patients with esophageal cancer, 25 with colon cancer, 5 with rectal cancer, 2 with pancreatic cancer, and 1 with gastric cancer. Nineteen patients were treated with whole-brain radiotherapy and/or local brain radiotherapy before GKS. Twenty-four patients had extracranial metastases, and 3 had an additional primary cancer. The mean metastatic brain tumor volume was 4.3 cm3, and the mean maximum tumor dose varied from 17.1 to 76.7 Gy (mean 41.8 Gy).

Results

Follow-up imaging studies were available in 25 patients with a total of 90 treated metastases. The results demonstrate a tumor control rate of 91%. The median survival time was 6.7 months, and the 6-month and 1-year survival rates were 55 and 25%, respectively. A univariate analysis revealed that the KPS score (≤ 70 vs ≥ 80) was significant (p = 0.018) for improved survival.

Conclusions

Results in this series suggest that GKS can be an effective tool for the treatment of brain metastases from gastrointestinal cancer.
Factors influencing the genesis of neurosurgical technology
Authors: Bergman William C. , Schulz Raymond A. , Davis Deanna S.
Published: September 2009

For any new technology to gain acceptance, it must not only adequately fill a true need, but must also function optimally within the confines of coexisting technology and concurrently available support systems. As an example, over the first decades of the 20th century, a number of drill designs used to perform cranial bone cuts appeared, fell out of favor, and later reappeared as certain supportive technologies emerged. Ultimately, it was the power source that caused one device to prevail.

In contrast, a brilliant imaging device, designed to demonstrate an axial view of the lumbar spine, was never allowed to gain acceptance because it was immediately superseded by another device of no greater innovation, but one that performed optimally with popular support technology. The authors discuss the factors that have bearing on the evolution of neurosurgical technology.
The historical evolution of transsphenoidal surgery: facilitation by technological advances
Authors: Gandhi Chirag D. , Christiano Lana D. , Eloy Jean Anderson , Prestigiacomo Charles J. , Post Kalmon D.
Published: September 2009

Over the past century, pituitary surgery has undergone multiple evolutions in surgical technique and technological advancements that have resulted in what practitioners now recognize as modern transsphenoidal surgery (TSS). Although the procedure is now well established in current neurosurgical literature, the historical maze that led to its development continues to be of interest because it allows a better appreciation of the unique contributions by the pioneers of the technique, and of the innovative spirit that continues to fuel neurosurgery. The early events in the history of TSS have already been well documented. This paper therefore summarizes the major early transitions along the timeline, and then further concentrates on some of the more recent advancements in TSS, such as the surgical microscope, fluoroscopy, endoscopy, intraoperative imaging, and frameless guidance. The account of each of these innovations is unique because they were each developed as a response to certain historical needs by the surgeon. An understanding of these more recent contributions, coupled with the early history, provides a more complete perspective on modern TSS.
Operating microscopes: past, present, and future
Authors: Uluç Kutluay , Kujoth Gregory C. , Başkaya Mustafa K.
Published: September 2009

The operating microscope is a fixture of modern surgical facilities, and it is a critically important factor in the success of many of the most complex and difficult surgical interventions used in medicine today. The rise of this key surgical tool reflects advances in understanding the principles of optics and vision that have occurred over centuries. The development of reading spectacles in the late 13th century led to the construction of early compound microscopes in the 16th and 17th centuries by Lippershey, Janssen, Galileo, Hooke, and others. Perhaps surprisingly, Leeuwenhoek's simple microscopes of this era offered improved performance over his contemporaries' designs. The intervening years saw improvements that reduced the spherical and chromatic aberrations present in compound microscopes. By the late 19th century, Carl Zeiss and Ernst Abbe ushered the compound microscope into the beginnings of the modern era of commercial design and production. The introduction of the microscope into the operating room by Nylén in 1921 initiated a revolution in surgical practice that gained momentum throughout the 1950s with multiple refinements, the introduction of the Zeiss OPMI series, and Kurze's application of the microscope to neurosurgery in 1957. Many of the refinements of the last 50 years have greatly improved the handling and practical operation of the surgical microscope, considerations which are equally important to its optical performance. Today's sophisticated operating microscopes allow for advanced real-time angiographic and tumor imaging. In this paper the authors discuss what might be found in the operating rooms of tomorrow.