bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and analysis of an ultrathin X‐band polarization‐insensitive metamaterial absorber
Authors: Thummaluru Sreenath Reddy , Mishra Naveen , Chaudhary Raghvendra Kumar
Published: July 2016

This article investigates on the design and analysis of an ultrathin X‐band metamaterial absorber in the microwave frequency regime. The proposed structure consist of four‐fold symmetry, and it has been exhibiting 99.6% absorptivity at the frequency of 8.65 GHz with full width at half maximum (FWHM) bandwidth of 331.8 MHz (8.4777 GHz ‐ 8.8095 GHz). The metamaterial characteristics of the proposed unit cell are verified with the help of dispersion plot. The working mechanism of the proposed absorber structure has been explained here by the E‐field, H‐field and the impedance plots. The absorptivity of the proposed structure have been investigated at different polarizations angles. In addition to above, MTM property is also shown by plotting permittivity and permeability plots. At the resonance frequency of 8.65 GHz, the input impedance of the designed absorber is 371.6 Ω, nearly equal to the free space impedance value. The designed absorber is of ultrathin thickness (λ0/40) with respect to center frequency fc = 8.65 GHz. The proposed structure has been fabricated and simulated results are experimentally verified for the fabricated proto‐type. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 58:2481–2485, 2016
Anti‐ganglioside antibodies in Guillain–Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy in Chinese patients
Authors: Fan Chenghe , Jin Haiqiang , Hao Hongjun , Gao Feng , Sun Yongan , Lu Yuanyuan , Liu Yuanyuan , Lv Pu , Cui Wei , Teng Yuming , Huang Yining
Published: July 2016

Introduction: In this study we investigated the relationships between anti‐ganglioside antibodies and Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Methods: Samples from 48 Chinese patients diagnosed with GBS and 18 patients diagnosed with CIDP were retrospectively reviewed. Results: In the GBS patients, 62.5% were classified as having acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP), 27.1% were found to have acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN), and 10.4% were unclassified. Serum IgG anti‐ganglioside antibodies were detected in 46.2% of the AMAN patients and in 6.7% of the AIDP patients (P < 0.05); 5.6% of the 18 CIDP patients were IgG antibody positive, and 27.8% were IgM antibody positive. Facial palsy and sensory impairment were significantly associated with IgM antibodies. Conclusions: These results suggest that IgG anti‐GM1 antibodies are associated with AMAN, but not with AIDP, and that IgM antibodies against GM1, GM2, and GM3 are associated with facial nerve palsy. Muscle Nerve 55: 470–475, 2017
The fascial suspension of the prostate: A cadaveric study
Authors: Dalpiaz Orietta , Anderhuber Friedrich
Published: July 2016

Aims

Analysis and description of the supporting fascial structure around the prostate and urethra, which needs to be preserved or restored during radical prostatectomy (RP).

Methods

Anatomical dissection of 10 male cadavers was performed and the supporting fascial structures of bladder neck, prostate, and proximal urethra were investigated. The cadavers were embalmed according to Thiel's method, which preserves a natural texture and color of tissues.

Results

Anteriorly, the puboprostatic ligament (PL), the dorsal vein complex, and the urethropelvic ligament form an integral structure that suspends and stabilizes the prostatic apex. Laterally, the fascia originates from the fascial tendinous arch of the pelvis and stabilizes the prostate in the central position. In the posterolateral aspect, we could demonstrate a tendineous dorsal raphe, which represents an important stabilization structure of the urethra.

Conclusions

The anterior and posterior pelvic fascial structure seems to be important stabilizer for the prostate and proximal urethra. Their preservation or reconstruction during RP is mandatory to restore the anatomic and functional continuity of the bladder neck and urethra. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:1131–1135, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development and psychometric properties of a measure of catheter burden with bladder drainage after pelvic reconstructive surgery
Authors: Carpenter Janet S. , Heit Michael , Rand Kevin L.
Published: July 2016

Aims

Catheter burden after pelvic reconstructive surgery is an important patient‐reported quality of life outcome in research and clinical practice. However, existing tools focus on long‐term catheter users rather than short‐term postoperative patients. The study aim was to evaluate the psychometric properties of a modified version of the intermittent self‐catheterization questionnaire (ISC‐Q) in postoperative pelvic reconstructive patients.

Methods

After experts convened to discuss and modify the ISC‐Q items based on their knowledge of women's experiences and clinical practices, 178 women (108 with transurethral and 70 with suprapubic catheters) completed the modified scale and other measures as part of a larger parent study designed to assess health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) following pelvic reconstructive surgery requiring bladder drainage.

Results

During psychometric testing, the modified ISC‐Q was reduced to six items encompassing two factors: a three‐item difficulty of use factor and a 3‐item embarrassment factor. The new scale was named the short‐term catheter burden questionnaire (STCBQ). The two‐factor model was robust in both subsamples. Only scores within and not between subsamples can be meaningfully compared due to a lack of scalar invariance. Correlations among STCBQ total scores, subscores, and a single satisfaction item indicated good construct validity. Correlations with patient demographics provided further information about the scale.

Conclusions

The STCBQ is a short, efficient assessment of short‐term catheter burden following pelvic reconstructive surgery. The scale can be used as an important patient reported outcome measure in clinical practice and research. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:1140–1146, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phenotyping women with detrusor underactivity by presumed etiology: Is it plausible?
Authors: Brown Elizabeth T. , Cohn Joshua A. , Kaufman Melissa R. , Dmochowski Roger R. , Reynolds William S.
Published: July 2016

Aims

Underactive bladder (UAB) is a symptom complex with poorly characterized causation. The aim of this study was to determine if clinical and UDS parameters differed between categories of presumed detrusor underactivity (DU) etiologies.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed at a single institution from 2011 to 2015 to identify patients with symptoms of UAB. Patients were excluded if they were male, had anti‐incontinence, or pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery within 1 year, or the UDS did not demonstrate DU as defined within. Subjects were stratified by etiology into four cohorts: cardiovascular disease manifestations (CV), cardiac risk factors (CVR), neurologic (N), or idiopathic (I). Patient demographics, comorbidities, symptomatology, physical exam, and UDS parameters were compared.

Results

A total of 200 patients met inclusion criteria (CV: n = 53 [26.5%], CVR: n = 44 [22%] N: n = 81 [40.5%], I: n = 22 [11%]). Women in the CV cohort were significantly older and more likely to be post‐menopausal (P < 0.001). There were no differences between cohorts for BMI (P = 0.48), recurrent UTI (P = 0.63), history of urinary retention (AUR) (P = 0.65), POP (0.49), American Urological Association Symptom Score (AUA‐SS) (P = 0.06), presenting symptomatology [urgency, frequency, urgency urinary incontinence, AUR, incomplete emptying, hesitancy, UTI (P = 0.97)], or UDS parameters (first sensation [P = 0.25], normal desire [P = 0.80], strong desire [P = 0.58], capacity [P = 0.11], Qmax [P = 0.50], Pdet at Qmax [P = 0.22], post‐void residual [P = 0.82]).

Conclusions

Though differences were observed between cohorts for age and menopausal status, clinical or urodynamic parameters did not demonstrate distinct differences across presumed categories of etiology, suggesting that the etiology of DU may be multifactorial. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:1151–1154, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of a 3‐node mixed‐shear‐projected triangular element method for Reissner–Mindlin plates
Authors: Yu Guozhu , Xie Xiaoping
Published: July 2016

This article analyses an existing 3‐node hybrid triangular element, called MiSP3, for Reissner–Mindlin plates which behaves robustly in numerical benchmark tests (Ayad, Dhatt, and Batoz, Int J Numer Method Eng 42 (1998), 1149–1179). Based on Hellinger‐Reissner variational principle and the mixed shear interpolation/projection technique of MITC family, the MiSP3 element uses continuous piecewise linear polynomials for the approximations of displacements and a piecewise‐independent equilibrium mode for the approximations of bending moments/shear stresses. Due to local elimination of the parameters of moments/stresses, the element is almost of the same computational cost as the conforming linear triangular displacement element. We derive uniform stability and convergence results with respect to the plate thickness. The main tools of our analysis are the self‐equilibrium relation of the moments/stresses approximations, the properties of the mixed shear interpolation and the discrete Helmholtz decomposition of the shear stress approximation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 33: 241–258, 2017
Spin‐polarized electron energy loss spectroscopy at high momentum resolution
Authors: Vasilyev D. , Kirschner J.
Published: July 2016

An improved spin‐polarized electron energy loss spectroscopy apparatus with high momentum resolution was developed during the last few years. It is equipped with a multichannel energy analyzer and multichannel spin imaging detector. This technique allows to see features on the energy loss spectra, angular dependence of asymmetry and intensity and pronounced sensitivity on the primary energy. In this work, we studied dipolar scattering resonances, spin‐dependent electron–hole excitations and their momentum dependence and collective magnetic excitation, i.e. high energy magnons. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
REELS study of a LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 positive electrode
Authors: Taguchi N. , Kitta M. , Sakaebe H. , Akita T.
Published: July 2016

Li K‐edge analysis obtained by scanning reflection energy loss spectroscopy (REELS) has been used to investigate the positive electrode of a Li‐ion battery. Using spectral imaging data, Li mapping of a LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 electrode has been constructed. Inhomogeneous Li distributions are observed in LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 particles after cyclic electrode charging and discharging. The REELS results agree well with those obtained by scanning transmission electron microscopy‐electron energy loss spectroscopy (STEM‐EELS). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Revisiting the European Horsemeat Scandal: The Role of Power Asymmetry in the Food Supply Chain Crisis
Authors: Madichie Nnamdi O. , Yamoah Fred A.
Published: July 2016

This study explores the role of power asymmetry in the food supply chain, especially in relation to the channel conflict, and ultimate breakdown that culminated in the infamous European horsemeat scandal across Europe. Drawing upon the power‐dependency, and to some extent, social exchange theory, the study posits that mutual dependence between single supplier–multiple buyer relationships where major retailers are the weaker partners, may require a revisitation of risk management practices in that sector. In addition to the fraudulent and unethical practices established from media reporting on the horsemeat scandal, the study argues that the power asymmetry/imbalance may have contributed to a supplier culture that tolerated the unethical decision making leading to the horsemeat scandal. Based on an extensive review of secondary data sources comprising media reports on the scandal and a review of the academic literature on power dependency and social exchange theories, the study attempts to map out the root of the crisis, how to forestall future recurrence, and the managerial and policy implications of these. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Heavy metals accumulation affects bone microarchitecture in osteoporotic patients
Authors: Scimeca Manuel , Feola Maurizio , Romano Lorenzo , Rao Cecilia , Gasbarra Elena , Bonanno Elena , Brandi Maria Luisa , Tarantino Umberto
Published: July 2016

Bone metabolism is affected by mechanical, genetic, and environmental factors and plays a major role in osteoporosis. Nevertheless, the influence of environmental pollution on the occurrence of osteoporosis is still unclear and controversial. In this context, heavy metals are the most important pollutants capable to affect bone mass. The aim of this study was to investigate whether heavy metals accumulation in bone tissues could be related to the altered bone metabolism and architecture of osteoporotic patients. To this end, we analyzed 25 bone head biopsies osteoporotic patients and 25 bone head biopsies of osteoarthritic patients. Moreover we enrolled 15 patients underwent hip arthroplasty for high‐energy hip fracture or osteonecrosis of the femoral head as a control group. Bone head biopsies were studied by BioQuant‐osteo software, scanning electron microscopy and Energy Dispersive X‐ray microanalysis. We found a prevalence of lead, cadmium and chromium accumulation in osteoporotic patients. Noteworthy, high levels of sclerostin, detected by immunohistochemistry, correlate with the accumulation of heavy metal found in the bone of osteoporotic patients, suggesting a molecular link between heavy metal accumulation and bone metabolism impairment. In conclusion, the presence of heavy metals into bone shed new light on the comprehension of the pathogenesis of osteoporosis since these elements could play a non redundant role in the development of osteoporosis at cellular/molecular and epigenetic level. Nevertheless, in vivo and in vitro studies need to better elucidate the molecular mechanism in which heavy metals can participate to osteoporosis. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1333–1342, 2017.
Using a Checklist in Robotic‐Assisted Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy Procedures
Authors: Jing Jiamei , Honey Michelle L.L.
Published: July 2016

Robotic surgical systems are relatively new in New Zealand and have been used mainly for laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. Checklists are successfully used in other industries and health care facilities, so we developed a checklist for use during robotic‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALRP) procedures. After a two‐month trial using the checklist, we calculated the completeness of each phase of the checklist as a percentage of the number of completed checklists versus total number of compliant checklists in that phase. Operating room personnel participated in an audiotaped focus group and discussed their perceptions about using the RALRP checklist. We collected, transcribed, and reviewed the focus group discussion and thematically analyzed the responses, which confirmed that the checklist served as a guideline and reminder during the setup. Additionally, staff members associated the checklist with improved OR readiness, minimized workflow interruption, improved efficiency, and positive changes in confidence and teamwork.
Strategies for Successful Perioperative Orientation
Authors: Mollohan Joseph K. , Morales Maria
Published: July 2016

The successful orientation of new employees facilitates their transition to the complex and demanding world of perioperative nursing. Whether a nurse is a recent graduate or an experienced nurse who has recently joined the facility or department, a new nurse benefits from a transition period during which new skills, processes, and concepts can be learned. Training should offer new employees the opportunity to develop competency, experience, collegial relationships, clinical judgment, and, overall, specialized knowledge for application in the clinical setting. Concerns surrounding orientation and training include the initial costs for training and the possibility of new employees leaving after the completion of training. The associated costs can be staggering, but adopting perioperative nurse residency programs may be a way to provide quality, high‐level training and improve retention rates while minimizing long‐term costs.
Clinical Issues‐August 2016
Authors: Ogg Mary J.
Published: July 2016

This Month

Assessing discharge risks for infants and toddlers who have undergone moderate sedation

Key words: patient discharge, pediatric, caregiver, moderate sedation.

Assessing a child for sleep apnea

Key words: pediatric, obstructive sleep apnea, moderate sedation.

Using a frailty index to assess surgical patients

Key words: frailty, surgical complications, older adult, Braden Scale, Fried Frailty Criteria.

Determining the need for IV access in patients undergoing local anesthesia

Key words: local anesthesia, IV, preoperative assessment.
Characterization of p75 neurotrophin receptor expression in human dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Pan Wenru , Kremer Karlea L. , Kaidonis Xenia , Ludlow Victoria E. , Rogers Mary‐Louise , Xie Jianling , Proud Christopher G. , Koblar Simon A.
Published: July 2016

Human adult dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) are a heterogeneous stem cell population, which are able to differentiate down neural, chondrocyte, osteocyte and adipocyte lineages. We studied the expression pattern of p75 neurotrophin receptors (p75NTR), a marker of neural stem cells, within human DPSC populations from eight donors. p75NTR are expressed at low levels (<10%) in DPSC. Importantly, p75+ DPSC represent higher expression levels of SOX1 (neural precursor cell marker), SOX2 (cell pluripotency marker) and nestin (neural stem cell marker) in comparison to p75− DPSC. Our results suggest that p75+ hDPSC may denote a subpopulation with greater neurogenic potential.
Therapeutic potential of melatonin in oral medicine and periodontology
Authors: Najeeb Shariq , Khurshid Zohaib , Zohaib Sana , Zafar Muhammad Sohail
Published: July 2016

Melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxy tryptamine) is a substance secreted by multiple organs in vertebrates. In addition to playing a part in the circadian cycle of the body, melatonin is known to have antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antioncotic effects on human tissues. Oral cavity is affected by a number of conditions such as periodontitis, mucositis, cancers, and cytotoxicity from various drugs or biomaterials. Research has suggested that melatonin is effective in treating the aforementioned pathologies. Furthermore, melatonin has been observed to enhance osseointegration and bone regeneration. The aim of this review is to critically analyze and summarize the research focusing on the potential of melatonin in the field of oral medicine. Topical administration of melatonin has a positive effect on periodontal health and osseointegration. Furthermore, melatonin is particularly effective in improving the periodontal parameters of diabetic patients with periodontitis. Melatonin exerts a regenerative effect on periodontal bone and may be incorporated into of periodontal scaffolds. The cytotoxic effect of various drugs and dental materials may be countered by the antioxidant properties of melatonin. Topical administration of melatonin promotes the healing of tooth extraction sockets and may also impede the progression of oral cancer. Although, there are a number of current and potential applications of melatonin, further long term clinical and animal studies are needed to assess its efficacy. Moreover, the role of melatonin supplements in the management of periodontitis should also be assessed.
Assessing the subglacial lake coverage of Antarctica
Authors: Goeller Sebastian , Steinhage Daniel , Thoma Malte , Grosfeld Klaus
Published: July 2016

Lakes beneath the Antarctic Ice Sheet are known to decrease traction at the ice base and therefore can have a great impact on ice dynamics. However, the total extent of Antarctic subglacial lakes is still unknown. We address this issue by combining modeling and remote-sensing strategies to predict potential lake locations using the general hydraulic potential equation. We are able to reproduce the majority of known lakes, as well as predict the existence of many new and so far undetected potential lakes. To validate our predictions, we analyzed ice-penetrating radar profiles from radio-echo sounding flights acquired over 1994–2013 in Dronning Maud Land, East Antarctica, and this led to the identification of 31 new subglacial lakes. Based on these findings, we estimate the total number of Antarctic subglacial lakes to be ~1300, a factor of three higher than the total number of lakes discovered to date. We estimate that only ~30% of all Antarctic subglacial lakes and ~65% of the total estimated lake-covered area have been discovered, and that lakes account for 0.6% of the Antarctic ice/bed interface.
Incidence of Domestic Violence Against Pregnant Females After the Great East Japan Earthquake in Miyagi Prefecture: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study
Authors: Sakurai Kasumi , Nishigori Hidekazu , Nishigori Toshie , Mizuno Satoshi , Obara Taku , Iwama Noriyuki , Watanabe Zen , Ishikuro Mami , Tatsuta Nozomi , Nishijima Ichiko , Sugawara Junichi , Fujiwara Ikuma , Arima Takahiro , Kuriyama Shinichi , Metoki Hirohito , Takahashi Fumiaki , Nakai Kunihiko , Yaegashi Nobuo ,   Japan Environment & Children’s Study Group
Published: July 2016

Objective

This study aimed to clarify the correlation between the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and domestic violence (DV) against pregnant females after the disaster in Miyagi Prefecture, an area damaged by the earthquake and tsunami.

Methods

We analyzed 7600 pregnant females from June to December 2011. The incidence of physical and mental DV and the proportions in the inland, north coastal, and south coastal areas of Miyagi Prefecture and nationwide were calculated, and a chi-square test was conducted for comparison. The risk factors for DV were estimated with multivariate logistic regression analyses on a prefecture-wide basis.

Results

The incidence levels for physical DV were found to be 5.9% in the north coastal area, which was significantly higher than in the inland area (1.3%, P=0.0007) and nationwide (1.5%, P<0.0001). There were no significant differences in the incidence of mental DV between the 3 areas in Miyagi Prefecture (inland 15.2%, north coast 15.7%, and south coast 18.8%) or nationwide (13.8%). Experiencing disease or injury in someone close and changes in the family structure were significantly associated with mental DV in Miyagi Prefecture.

Conclusion

Continuous monitoring and support for pregnant females may be necessary to address this issue in disaster-affected areas. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:216–226)
Raman–Brillouin interplay for inertial confinement fusion relevant laser–plasma interaction
Authors: Riconda C. , Weber S.
Published: July 2016

The co-existence of the Raman and Brillouin backscattering instability is an important issue for inertial confinement fusion. The present paper presents extensive one-dimensional (1D) particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations for a wide range of parameters extending and complementing previous findings. PIC simulations show that the scenario of reflectivity evolution and saturation is very sensitive to the temperatures, intensities, size of plasma and boundary conditions employed. The Langmuir decay instability is observed for rather small

$k_{epw}{\it\lambda}_{D}$

but has no influence on the saturation of Brillouin backscattering, although there is a clear correlation of Langmuir decay instability modes and ion-fractional decay for certain parameter ranges. Raman backscattering appears at any intensity and temperature but is only a transient phenomenon. In several configurations forward as well as backward Raman scattering is observed. For the intensities considered,

$I{\it\lambda}_{o}^{2}$

above

$10^{15}~\text{W}~{\rm\mu}\text{m}^{2}/\text{cm}^{2}$

, Raman is always of bursty nature. A particular setup allows the simulation of multi-speckle aspects in which case it is found that Raman is self-limiting due to strong modifications of the distribution function. Kinetic effects are of prime importance for Raman backscattering at high temperatures. No unique scenario for the saturation of Raman scattering or Raman–Brillouin competition does exist. The main effect in the considered parameter range is pump depletion because of large Brillouin backscattering. However, in the low

$k_{epw}{\it\lambda}_{D}$

regime the presence of ion-acoustic waves due to the Langmuir decay instability from the Raman created electron plasma waves can seed the ion-fractional decay and affect the Brillouin saturation.
Do Employees Support Corporate Philanthropy? Evidence from Chinese Listed Companies
Authors: Gao Yongqiang , Yang Haibin
Published: July 2016

While prior research generally acknowledges the positive effect of corporate philanthropy (CP) on firm performance, the underlying mechanisms regarding how or why CP leads to better financial performance remain unclear. We argue that employees as an influential firm stakeholder group may act as an important factor in realizing the value of CP. We specifically ground this study in social identity theory to investigate whether or not employees support CP by increasing labor productivity, as well as whether a firm's salary level and market visibility will moderate such an effect. Evidence from Chinese listed firms suggests that CP positively influences labor productivity. In addition, self-compared salaries and firm visibility strengthen the link between CP and labor productivity, suggesting that the value of CP depends on the support of key stakeholders such as employees.
Association ofNKAPL,TSPAN18, andMPC2gene variants with schizophrenia based on new data and a meta-analysis in Han Chinese
Authors: Li Zhen , Shen Tingting , Xin Ran , Liang Baoyun , Jiang Juan , Ling Weijun , Wei Bo , Su Li
Published: July 2016

Background

Schizophrenia (SZ) is suggested to be a complex polygenetic disorder with high heritability. Genome-wide association studies have found that the rs1635, rs11038167, and rs10489202 polymorphisms are associated with SZ in Han Chinese. However, results of validation studies are inconsistent. This study aimed to test the association between theNKAPLrs1635,TSPAN18rs11038167, andMPC2rs10489202 polymorphisms and SZ in a Chinese population.

Methods

This study contained 700 unrelated SZ patients (300 Zhuang and 400 Han) and 700 gender- and age-matched controls (300 Zhuang and 400 Han). The polymorphisms inTSPAN18(rs11038167),NKAPL(rs1635), andMPC2(rs10489202) were genotyped using the Sequenom MassARRAY method. Statistical analyses were performed with PLINK program and SPSS l6.0 for Windows. STATA11.1 was used for meta-analysis.

Results

No statistically significant difference was found in different allele and genotype frequencies of rs1635, rs11038167, and rs10489202 between SZ cases and controls of Zhuang and Han ethnicities and the total samples (allp>0.05). Further meta-analysis suggested that single-nucleotide polymorphism rs10489202 was significantly associated with SZ in a Han Chinese population (pOR=0.002).

Conclusions

Our case–control study failed to validate the significant association ofNKAPLrs1635,TSPAN18rs11038167, andMPC2rs10489202 polymorphisms with SZ susceptibility in the southern Zhuang or Han Chinese population. However, meta-analysis showed a significant association betweenMPC2variant rs10489202 and SZ susceptibility in Han Chinese.
Yolk Sacs in Twin Pregnancy
Authors: Malinowski W.
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the yolk sacs separated or not separated by septum and chorionicity twin pregnancies scanned early in the first trimester, and the relation between size and morphologic features of the yolk sac and the outcome of twin pregnancies.

RESULTS. In all 38 sets of twins two yolk sacs were identified. During the first trimester of a dichorionic twin pregnancy, the yolk sacs were always separated by a septum and not separated (“Eight” sign) in monochorionic twin pregnancy. In five cases, one of yolk sac was abnormally large (> 8mm) and had thin wall. Four of the five mothers spontaneously aborted during the next 2-3 weeks. In one case of monochorionic twin ectopic pregnancy two yolk sacs were seen normally.

CONCLUSION. The sonographic identification of yolk sacs in multiple pregnancies allows an early and efficient recognition of presence and chorionicity of twin pregnancy, both in intra – and extrauterine. Identification of abnormal yolk sac or yolk sacs suggests death of one or all embryos.
Prevalence and Forms of Congenital Anomalies in Twins Born in Pomeranian District During the Period from 1.07.1997 to 31.12.1998
Authors: Zimoń T. , Walczak M. , Fydryk J. , Materna-Kiryluk A. , Mejnar-towicz J. , Latos-Bieleńska A. , Ronin-Walknowska E. , Czajka R. , Chosia M. , Gawrych E. , Baryła-Pankiewicz E. , Zajączek S. , Rudnicki J. , Hulak A. , Chrystyniak H. , Romanowski A. , Staroniewska I. ,   other members of the Polish Register of Congenital Anomalies
Published: July 2016

The authors have analysed the frequency and structure of congenital anomalies in children born in the Pomeranian district in the period from 01.07.1997 to 31.12.1998. Among a total of 28.361 births in that area, 748 (2.64%) were affected by congenital anomalies. Among 28.361 births, 620 (2.18%) were from multiple pregnancies. 23 (3.71%) among births from multiple pregnancies were affected by congenital malformations. The prevalence rate of inborn anomalies in births from multiple pregnancy in our area were higher (3.71%) in comparison to births from singleton pregnancy (2.61%). It implies that children born from multiple pregnancy are at higher risk of developing congenital anomalies.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Cerebral Central Sulci: a Study of Monozygotic Twins
Authors: Bonan I. , Argenti A.M. , Duyme M. , Hasboun D. , Dorion A. , Marsault C. , Zouaoui A.
Published: July 2016

The cerebral central sulci, seat of the sensorimotor cortex, vary anatomically in form, length and depth among individuals and present a left/right asymmetry. The purpose of this work was to measure central sulcus's lengths, at the surface and in-depth, in each hemisphere of monozygotic twins in order to evaluate the influence of environmental factors on the morphometry and asymmetry of this structure. A measurement technique on MR images of the brains using 3 D software was developed. Two operators applied this technique to measure central sulcus lengths at the surface of the brain and in-depth in each hemisphere. Besides the fact that the technique developed gave high Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) for the surface lengths (mean value 0.94), and slightly less high for the in-depth length (mean value 0.87), we found a weak (from 0.57 to 0.73 for raw data) but significant ICC between homologous sulci in pairs of twins. In addition, the ICC for asymmetry indices were not significant. Hence, if central sulcus morphometry is in part genetically influenced, these results show that nongenetic factors are nonetheless important in their development.
Twin Differences and Similarities of Birthweight and Term in the French Romulus Population
Authors: Charlemaine C. , Duyme M. , Guis F. , Camous B. , Brossard Y. , Aurengo A. , Romulus Le Groupe , Frydman R. , Pons J. C.
Published: July 2016

This study was performed to examine the main characteristics of the French Romulus twin population: zygosity, chorionicity, sex, term and birthweight. A sample of 104 pairs of twins was distinguished by zygosity, chorionicity and sex, and divided into concordant and discordant birthweight groups. Fifty-three % (n = 55) of the fetus pairs studied were born at “ideal term” (35-38 weeks), and 25% (n = 26) were delivered at “preterm” (28-34 weeks). The very preterm (< 28 weeks), and “postterm” (> 38 weeks) represented altogether 22% (n = 23) of the sample. Of the 104 twin pairs, 68% (n = 71) differ by less than 15% in birthweight, and 32% (n = 33) have a birthweight difference higher than 15%. In dizygotic (DZ) pairs females had more tendency to be in the discordant group (p = 0.01) while in monochorionic-monozygotic (MC-MZ) pairs males were more discordant (p = 0.07). We found a significant interaction between sex and zygosity type (p = 0.02). Males had a birthweight difference significantly weaker than that of females in dichorionic-monozygotic (DC-MZ) and DZ twins whereas it was higher than that of females in MC-MZ twins. There were no MZ twin pairs with DC placentation over than 15% birthweight difference. Log linear analysis demonstrated a three-way interaction (p < 0.05) between term type, zygosity type and hypotrophy. Our data indicate that in the group of twins born between 35 and 38 weeks' gestation the crucial question still remains unsettled on how term and birhweight are related to zygotism and/or chorionicity.
Sex Differences in Genetic Determinants of Craniofacial Variations - A Study Based on Twin Kinships
Authors: Sharma K.
Published: July 2016

Race, sex, nutritional status and cultural factors affect craniofacial morphogenesis. Out of these, sex is a major factor in craniofacial differentiation, because it can be stronger in one ethnic group and weaker in another. In this study, sex differences in genetic variance and heritability of 13 craniofacial traits are investigated. The study is based on a sample of 45 MZ and 101 DZ twin pairs and their 125 singleton siblings, 104 fathers and 103 mothers in 146 families drawn from an urban population of Chandigarh. Results of t'-tests for equality of the means reveal association of zygosity with the mean value of bigonial diameter in female twins and for none in males. Heterogeneity of variance is observed in about 50% traits in females as compared to 15% in males. This invalidates conventional within-pair genetic variance estimates for these traits. The revised genetic variance ratios are higher on an average in males than in females. However, there is greater MZ environmental covariance in male twins than their female counterparts. Family data indicate higher maternal effect for ear height, nasal height and frontal breadth, while greater paternal effect is seen in cranial traits. Sex-wise midparent-child regression coefficients show greater heritability in daughters for nasal traits and bigonial breadth, while sons show higher genetic component for head size measures.
Absence of Pericentromeric Heterochromatin (9qh-) in a Patient with Bilateral Retinoblastoma
Authors: Sivakumaran T. A. , Ghose S. , Kumar H. , Singha U. , Kucheria K.
Published: July 2016

The polymorphisms of constitutive heterochromatin regions, present on chromosomes 1, 9, 16 and Y, are inherited in a Mendelian fashion. The C-band heteromorphism has been reported to be associated with various types of cancer. Heterochromatin is considered to play a role in protecting genome against the mutagens. Changes in the quantity and proportion of the different types of satellite DNA might increase the genetic susceptibility in people with heterochromatic variations, which in turn cause chromosome instability and predispose the individual to cancer. We report a case of bilateral retinoblastoma with complete absence of pericentromeric heterochromatin on one of the chromosomes number 9. A similar deficiency of pericentromeric heterochromatin on chromosome number 9 and 16 has been reported in a phenotypically normal individual and a Down syndrome case, respectively. This deficiency was found to be inherited from the father in all the three cases. Complete absence of pericentromeric heterochromatin of chromosome 9 is not being reported in association with cancer syndromes. Further studies are necessary to understand the role of this factor in normals and in those with cancer susceptibility, specially with retinoblastoma and the paternal origin of this deficiency.
Perinatal Outcome after Leave of Absence from Work for Twin-Pregnant Women
Authors: Rydhstroem H. , Bakketeig L. , Magnus P. , Knudsen L. B. , Wedel H.
Published: July 2016

Aim. To evaluate the association between the incidence of leave of absence from work and perinatal outcome for the twin-pregnant woman.

Material and methods. A 20.2% sample of all twin-pregnant women between 1982 and 1988 (1,331/6,602) was taken at random from the entire material of twin deliveries in Sweden, archived at the Medical Birth Registry (MBR), National Board of Health and Welfare. For each woman in the sample, information on period(s) and reasons for leave of absence from work during pregnancy was obtained by inquiry to all Regional Health Insurance Offices throughout Sweden. A comparison of perinatal outcome was also made with information from the Danish Fertility Database and the Norwegian Medical Birth Registry.

Results. Duration of leave from work increased from 58 days in 1982 to 97 days in 1988 (trend analysis; t = 7.9, p <0.001). No association was seen between perinatal mortality for twins weighing. < 1,500 g and changes in the incidence of leave of absence. The incidence of twins with a birthweight < 1,500 g varied among the three countries, increasing significantly only in Sweden (trend analysis χ2 = 20.3, p <0.0001).

Conclusion. Although the number of days of leave of absence increased by 60%, there was no obvious association with perinatal mortality for twins weighing < 1,500 g. The incidence of Swedish twins with a birthweight < 1,500 g increased significantly, indicating that the effect of leave of absence from work on perinatal outcome may be less effective than previously thought.
The Sonographic Prenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Defects of the Anterior Abdominal Wall Based on our Own Study of Twin Pregnancies – Gastroschisis
Authors: Malinowski W. , Biskup I.
Published: July 2016

The authors present gastroschisis which occurred in a surviving fetus after the co-twin demise in a monochorionic pregnancy. They analyze the problems of prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of gastroschisis stressing the adequate planning of delivery with necessary additional diagnostic and therapeutic efforts.
Effects of Inbreeding on Reproductive Losses in Kota Tribe
Authors: Sivakumaran T. A. , Karthikeyan S.
Published: July 2016

Sanghvi's hypothesis on long term effects of inbreeding was tested in Kotas. Kota is a numerically small tribal population in the Nilgiri district, Tamil Nadu State, India. Consanguineous marriages are common in this tribe. A total of 95 couples were taken for this study and necessary data were collected on a set proforma. Of the 95 couples, 28 (29.5%) were consanguineously related. The inbreeding coefficient for autosomal genes is 0.022 and for sex-linked genes is 0.03. Inbreeding effects on reproductive losses were examined through an exponential regression model. Although the regression coefficient B values are positive, they are insignificant, suggesting no consistent relationship between degree of consanguinity and the reproductive losses. The estimates of genetic load is 1.8 lethal equivalents per gamete and the average B/A ratio is 5. These findings empirically support the Sanghvi's contention.
The Twinning Rates by Zygosity in Japan, 1975-1994
Authors: Imaizumi Y. , Nonaka K.
Published: July 2016

The monozygotic (MZ) twinning rate in Japan had remained nearly constant from 1975 (3.74 per 1,000 births) to 1994 (4.23), whereas the dizygotic (DZ) twinning rate had remained nearly constant from 1975 (1.86) to 1986 (2.27), and had gradually increased up to 1994 (3.89). The higher DZ twinning rate since 1987 has been attributed to the higher proportion of mothers treated with ovulation-inducing hormones and partially attributed to in-vitro fertilisation in Japan. As for maternal age, MZ twinning rates have remained nearly constant for maternal age groups except the youngest and the oldest age groups. On the other hand, DZ twinning rates increased up to the 35-39 years of age group and decrease thereafter. In 1994, the twinning rate was higher in DZ twins than in MZ twins for maternal age groups of 30-34 years and of 35-39 years. As for geographical variations in twinning rates, DZ rates statistically significantly increased with the year during the period from 1986 to 1994 in 31 out of 47 prefectures. In 1994, twinning rates in 21 out of 47 prefectures were higher in the DZ than the MZ rate, and the DZ rate is equal to the MZ rate in two prefectures. Geographical variations in twinning rates by zygosity in 1994 drastically changed from those during the period from 1955-1959 and in 1974.
Factors Associated with Neonatal Hypoglycemia in Premature Twins and Singletons
Authors: Zanardo V. , Cagdas S. , Marzari F.
Published: July 2016

Twin gestation is associated with higher rate of neonatal hypoglycemia than do singletons. We examined the role of specific risk factors associated with neonatal hypoglycemia of 216 premature twins and 1284 premature singletons, consecutively born in the years 1994-1996 in the Department of Pediatrics of Padua University, Italy. Significantly higher risk of hypoglycemia (Dextrostix <40 and <20 mg%) was found in twins vs singletons (54% vs 32%, OR 2.49, CI 1.77-3.56; 19% vs 8%, OR 2.65, CI 1.59-4.19, respectively). Gestational age of 34-37 weeks increased hypoglycemia risk for the premature twins (77% vs 51%, OR 3.20 CI 1.49-6.88). Twin deliveries statistically differed from those of singletons in several perinatal characteristics. More twins were born by cesarean section (85% vs 55%, OR 4.15, CI 2.48-6.95), and the birth weight of twins was much lower related to prematures with BW < 1.0 kg (12% vs 6%, OR 2.06, CI 1.11-3.82) and SGA (20% vs 10%, OR 2.41, CI 1.46-3.98). The risk of twin deliveries was increased at 30-33 weeks gestational age (25% vs 15%, OR 1.84; CI 1.17-2.90). Twins were found to have higher rates of hospitalization (50% vs 40%, OR 1.52, CI 1.04-2.23) and showed an increased risk of cardiorespiratory resuscitation (51% vs 31%, OR 2.36, CI 1.61-3.47), hypothermia (11% vs 4%, OR 3.02, CI 2.333.91), BPD (25% vs 19%, OR 2.55, CI 1.10-5.91), and PVL (4% vs 1%, OR 4.08, CI 1.23-13.5). Mortality was found more often (not significant) in premature twins. The risk for intrapartum and early neonatal morbidity was however, mostly reduced in hypoglycemic twins, while it was comparable between smaller or smaller weight discordant twins and larger twins. Similarly, SGA twins, and smaller or smaller weight-discordant twins did not show increased hypoglycemia risk. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the multiple gestation per se is the single most important relative risk factor of hypoglycemia in premature twins.
Investigation on Seasonality of Twin Births in Brazil
Authors: Krieger H. , Colletto G. M. D. D. , Franchi-Pinto C. , Beiguelman B.
Published: July 2016

The hypothesis of seasonality of twin births was investigated in two important maternity hospitals in the State of Sāo Paulo, Brazil. The study included 1,386 twin births that occurred among 154,699 deliveries from 1984 to 1993. No evidence of seasonality has been detected either for the twin birth rate considered as a whole or for dizygotic twinning rate. The distributions of these rates fitted well sinusoidal regression curves but the cyclic trend did not correspond to any specific season.
Life Situation, Self reported Health and Coping Ability of 35-year old Twins and Controls – A Follow-up of a Longitudinal Swedish Twin Study at Adolescence
Authors: Lange A L. , Fischbein S.
Published: July 2016

During the years 1964 to 1971 a nationally representative sample of MZ and DZ twins and controls was followed through the Swedish compulsory school. The main purpose was to study physical and mental growth during puberty as well as heredity-environment influences on these growth processes.

After 20 years a follow-up has been made of this sample with the purpose of investigating heredity-environment influences on life situation and self reported health at mid-life in relation to background factors collected during adolescence. 43 pairs of MZ twins, 90 pairs of DZ same sex and opposite sex twins as well 322 controls agreed to participate. A questionnaire was sent out to this group dealing with their present life situation such as family structure, economy, education and occupation. Other areas of interest were self reported health and ability to cope with their present life situation. The disadvantages found for MZ female twins at adolescence seem to persist at mid-life and ratings of school adjustment were related to coping ability as grown ups. This first report presents comparisons between twins and controls as well as males and females. To estimate heredity influences intraclass correlations for the twin pairs are calculated and for coping ability such influences seem to be quite conspicuous. Sex specific factors seem to operate regarding coping ability and satisfaction in educational choice and level. Generally, the results indicate some advantages for the males regarding self reported life situation and health. Possible reasons for such sex differences are discussed. This study has been supported by grants from the Swedish Council for Social Research.
Study on Possible Increase in Twinning Rate at a Small Village in South Brazil
Authors: Matte U. , Le Roux M. G. , Bénichou B. , Moisan J. P. , Giugliani R.
Published: July 2016

A high frequency of twin births has been observed in Linha São Pedro, a small settlement which belongs to the city of Cândido Godói, located 524 km Northwest from Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in an ethnically homogeneous population of German descent restricted to a small geographic region. From 1990 to 1994, the proportion of twin births in Linha São Pedro was 10%, significantly higher than the 1.8% rate for the state of Rio Grande do Sul as a whole. Genealogical analysis showed a high recurrence of multiple births within families, as well as a high level of inbreeding in the community. Zygosity data indicated that 9 of the 17 pairs of twins studied (53%) were dizygotic. No external environmental factors were detected that could be influencing the appearance of this characteristic. This preliminary investigation confirmed the presumed existence of a high twinning rate in the community. The high familial recurrence and the high inbreeding rate suggests the presence of genetic twinning factors. Complementary studies of twins that have yet to be evaluated and the search for additional risk factors, as well as linkage studies, should contribute to a further understanding of the biological factors related to twin births in the human species.
Ethnic Variation of Twinning Rates in Malawi
Authors: Pollard R.
Published: July 2016

Malawi is a country in South-East Africa with a population of approximately 10 million, over 95% of whom are negro of Bantu origin. The country is divided into 24 administrative districts, each of which provides details of births which are compiled centrally at the Ministry of Health. Using data reported annually by health facilities from 1987-1990, most districts had twinning rates in the range 16 to 24 per 1000 maternities, figures consistent with those of other negro populations in Africa. Two adjoining districts (Rumphi and Mzimba) had rates which were considerably higher, almost 30 per 1000. Although ethnic origin is not recorded in the latest Malawi census, language spoken in the home, which was last recorded in 1966, can be used as a proxy. Rumphi and Mzimba are the only districts with an overwhelming majority of Tumbuka speaking population. These people, who are of both Tumbuka and Ngoni ethnic origin, therefore have an unusually high twinning rate (29.57 per 1000 maternities). The rate for the main ethnic group in Malawi, the Chewa people, was 21.21 per 1000. The district of Thyolo, with a mixed ethnic population, had by far the lowest rate (13.75 per 1000).