bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contributions of Improved Therapy and Earlier Detection to Cancer Survival Gains, 1988-2000
Authors: Sun Eric , Jena Anupam B , Lakdawalla Darius , Reyes Carolina , Philipson Tomas J , Goldman Dana
Published: February 2010

Prior literature has documented improvements in cancer survival over time. However, ambiguity remains over the relative contributions of improved treatment and earlier detection to survival gains. Using registry data, we developed a novel framework to estimate the relative contributions of advances in treatment and detection. Our approach compares changes in the probability of early detection, which we interpret as the effects of advances in detection, to improvements in stage-conditional survival, which we interpret as the effects of treatment. We applied this methodology using SEER data to estimate probabilities of early detection and stage-conditional survival curves for several cancers, by race, between 1988 and 2000. Survival increased for all of the cancers we examined, with blacks experiencing larger survival gains than whites for all cancers combined. Our baseline analysis found that treatment advances account for the vast majority of survival gains for all the cancers examined: breast cancer (83%), lung cancer (85%), colorectal cancer (76%), pancreatic cancer (100%), and non-Hodgkins lymphoma (96%). Compared to whites, treatments appear to explain a lower percentage of survival gains for blacks for all cancers combined; breast cancer, NHL, and pancreatic cancer show a higher percentage of survival gains than lung cancer; and roughly the same percentage for the colorectal cancer. These results are robust to sensitivity analyses examining potential length and lead time bias. Overall, our results suggest that while improved treatment and early detection both contributed to the recent gains in survival, the majority of gains from 1988 to 2000 appear to have been driven by better treatment, manifested by improved stage-conditional survival. These results have important policy implications regarding investment in research and development and the evaluation of efforts to improve cancer screening.
Identities in the Commons: The Dynamics of Norms and Social Capital
Authors: Bulte Erwin , Horan Richard D.
Published: February 2010

This paper provides a formal analysis of the evolution of cooperation in the management of common property resources. We develop a dynamic model that includes moral norms or a sense of 'identity,' and show that cooperation may  but need not  be an equilibrium outcome in the absence of intervention by a managing agency or punishment by peers. We demonstrate that outside intervention has ambiguous effects when identity matters  it may reduce welfare of the agents harvesting the stock.
Candidates in Parliamentary Elections: Analysis of the Preferential Voting in the Elections to the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic in 2006
Authors: Voda Petr , Pink Michal
Published: February 2010

The paper deals with the issue of the "candidate effect" within the proportional electoral system. The basic database consists of the total count and the share of preferential votes won by the candidates listed as first on party ballots in the Czech national parliamentary elections in June 2006. These election results, which are analyzed in the following text, are limited only to the ballots of those political parties that won seats in the Chamber of Deputies (that is, CSSD, KDU-CSL, KSCM, ODS, SZ). Individual outputs are based on a comparison of the election results for particular candidates in their electoral districts, in relation to their positions on the party ballots.
Effects of domperidone on digital laminar microvascular blood flow in clinically normal adult horses
Authors: Castro José R. , Adair Henry S. , Radecki Steven V. , Kiefer Virginia R. , Elliot Sarah B. , Longhofer Susan L.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To determine effects of domperidone and acepromazine maleate on microvascular blood flow in digital laminae of clinically normal adult horses.

Animals—8 clinically normal adult horses (4 mares and 4 geldings).

Procedures—In a 4-period crossover study, domperidone was administered PO at 1.1 mg/ kg and 5.5 mg/kg and IV at 0.2 mg/kg; acepromazine was administered IV at 0.04 mg/kg. The washout period between treatments was 1 week. A 3-minute measurement of laminar microvascular blood flow (LMBF) was obtained with laser Doppler flowmetry. Baseline measurements were obtained at −2, −1, and 0 hours prior to administration of drugs. Post-treatment measurements were obtained at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, and 12 hours. Percentage change from baseline values in LMBF for each treatment was subsequently calculated.

Results—Oral administration of domperidone at 1.1 mg/kg and 5.5 mg/kg significantly increased LMBF, compared with baseline values, beginning 4 hours after administration, and this effect persisted for at least 8 hours. Intravenous administration of domperidone at 0.2 mg/kg significantly increased LMBF, compared with baseline values, at 10 and 12 hours after administration. Administration of acepromazine (0.04 mg/kg, IV) significantly increased LMBF, compared with baseline values, at 3, 5, 8, and 10 hours after administration. No adverse effects of drugs were detected in any horse.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Domperidone may be useful for preventing vasoconstriction and reduction in LMBF believed to occur in horses with laminitis, but additional research of the drug's effects in horses with laminitis is required.
Effect of semen in urine specimens on urine protein concentration determined by means of dipstick analysis
Authors: Prober Laurie G. , Johnson Cheri A. , Olivier N. Bari , Thomas Jennifer S.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To determine the effect of semen in urine specimens on urine protein concentration measured by means of dipstick analysis.

Sample Population—14 urine samples from 3 adult castrated male dogs and 14 semen samples from 7 adult sexually intact male dogs.

Procedures—Serial dilutions of the whole ejaculate or spermatozoa-free seminal fluid in urine were created, and unaltered and diluted urine samples were analyzed by means of a commercially available dipstick; pH and specific gravity of the samples were also measured. Spermatozoa and WBC counts of the semen samples and protein concentration of the seminal fluid were determined.

Results—Protein concentrations determined by means of dipstick analysis of urine samples to which whole ejaculate (dilutions of 1:1, 1:2, 1:16, 1:64, and 1:256) or seminal fluid (dilutions of 1:1, 1:2, 1:16, and 1:64) had been added were significantly higher than concentrations in unaltered urine samples. All 13 samples to which whole ejaculate was added at a dilution of 1:2 and 10 of 12 samples to which seminal fluid was added at a dilution of 1:2 were positive for blood on dipstick analysis. There was no significant linear correlation between spermatozoa or WBC count of the semen sample and protein concentration of the spermatozoa-free seminal fluid.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that regardless of whether spermatozoa were present, semen contamination could result in false-positive results for protein and blood during dipstick analysis of urine samples from sexually intact male dogs.
Myoelectric activity of the ileum, cecum, proximal loop of the ascending colon, and spiral colon in cows with naturally occurring cecal dilatation-dislocation
Authors: Kunz-Kirchhofer Christine , Schelling Esther , Probst Sylvie , Brechbühl Monika , Steiner Adrian , Meylan Mireille
Published: March 2010

Objective—To analyze myoelectric activity of the ileum, cecum, proximal loop of the ascending colon (PLAC), and spiral colon in cows with naturally occurring cecal dilatation-dislocation (CDD) and compare findings with those in healthy cows.

Animals—8 CDD-affected and 6 healthy control cows.

Procedures—Immediately after diagnosis, CDD-affected cows underwent surgery; control cows underwent a similar surgical procedure. Before completion of surgery, 8 bipolar silver electrodes were implanted in the ileum (n = 2), cecum (1), PLAC (1), and spiral colon (4) of each cow. Beginning the day after surgery, intestinal myoelectric activity was recorded daily (8-hour period) for 4 days; data were analyzed by use of specialized software programs. Quantitative variables of myoelectric activity were compared between groups.

Results—Cows of both groups recovered without complications after surgery. In control cows, physiologic myoelectric activity was recorded in all intestinal segments on all days after surgery. Apparently normal myoelectric activity was evident in the ileum of CDD-affected cows on the first day after surgery, but myoelectric activity patterns in the cecum, PLAC, and spiral colon were variable with no organized cyclic myoelectric patterns, incomplete or normally organized migrating myoelectric complexes, and slow normalization over time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—After surgery for CDD, normal myoelectric patterns were disrupted in the large intestine of cows, especially in the spiral colon. Clinical recovery with effective transit of ingesta occurred before normalization of myoelectric activity in the large intestine. Therapeutic protocols for restoration or normalization of spiral colon motility should be developed for treatment of CDD-affected cattle.
In vitro comparison of plain radiography, double-contrast cystography, ultrasonography, and computed tomography for estimation of cystolith size
Authors: Byl Kevin M. , Kruger John M. , Kinns Jennifer , Nelson Nathan C. , Hauptman Joe G. , Johnson Cheri A.
Published: March 2010

Objective—To compare accuracy of estimates of cystolith size obtained by means of plain radiography, double-contrast cystography, ultrasonography, and computed tomography.

Sample Population—30 canine cystoliths ranging from 1 to 11 mm in diameter with various mineral compositions.

Procedures—A bladder phantom model was created by filling a rubber balloon with saline (1% NaCl) solution and positioning it on top of a 2% gelatin cushion at the bottom of a water-filled 4-quart container. Cystoliths were individually placed in the bladder phantom and imaged by each of the 4 techniques. For each image, cystolith size was measured by 2 radiologists with computerized calipers, and size estimates were compared with actual cystolith size.

Results—Mean cystolith size estimates obtained by means of radiography, cystography, and computed tomography did not differ significantly from each other. However, for ultrasonographic images, mean ± SD difference between actual and estimated cystolith size (2.95 ± 0.73 mm) was significantly higher than mean difference for radiographic, cystographic, and computed tomographic images. For ultrasonography, mean ± SD percentage overestimation in cystolith size was 68.4 ± 51.5%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that measurements of cystolith size obtained by means of ultrasonography may overestimate the true size. This suggests that cystolith size estimates obtained by means of ultrasonography should be interpreted with caution whenever cystolith size may influence patient management.
Electrical cardioversion of sustained ventricular tachycardia in three Boxers
Authors: Prošek Robert
Published: March 2010

Case Description—2 spayed female (8 and 9 years old) and 1 sexually intact male (6.5 years old) Boxers were treated because of sustained ventricular tachycardia by electrical cardioversion.

Clinical Findings—Physical examination of the 8-year-old female Boxer revealed tachycardia (heart rate, 250 beats/min), weak femoral pulses, pale mucous membranes, panting, and lethargy. The 6.5-year-old male Boxer had similar physical examination findings, with the addition of a syncopal event. Analysis of the ECG rhythm strips for the 8- and 6.5-year-old dogs indicated a right ventricular origin of the ventricular tachycardia. The 9-year-old female Boxer was being treated with an IV constant rate infusion of lidocaine hydrochloride because of ventricular arrhythmias during the initial examination; physical examination re-vealed weakness, pale mucous membranes, prolonged capillary refill time, weak femoral pulses, and tachycardia (heart rate, 265 beats/min). Analysis of the ECG rhythm strip for the 9-year-old Boxer indicated a left ventricular origin of the ventricular tachycardia.

Treatment and Outcome—Pharmacological cardioversion treatment was unsuccessful in all 3 Boxers; however, electrical cardioversion by use of a biphasic defibrillator synchronized to conduct 30 J of energy during the peak of the QRS complex was successful in each dog. The electrical cardioversion procedure was performed 2 times (5-day interval between procedures) in the 9-year-old female as a result of relapse of the ventricular tachycardia condition.

Clinical Relevance—Results and follow-up monitoring suggested electrical cardioversion of sustained ventricular tachycardia may be a safe and effective treatment in Boxers that are unresponsive to medical treatment.
Geo-kinematic investigations in Slovakia and the region of Central and Southeastern Europe based on combination of permanent and epoch-wise GPS networks
Authors: Hipmanová Linda
Published: February 2010

Geo-kinematic investigations in Slovakia and the region of Central and Southeastern Europe based on combination of permanent and epoch-wise GPS networks

The region of Central and Southeastern Europe is covered by numerous GPS networks investigating geo-kinematical behavior of this area. These activities started in early nineties within the several projects as CERGOP and CERGOP-2/Environment. In this paper we describe the process of combination of four networks located in the region of Central and Southeastern Europe using the CATREF (Combination and Analysis of Terrestrial REFerence Frame) software developed in Institute Geographique National in France. We were particularly interested in the CEPER (Central European Permanent Network), CEGRN (Central European Geodynaminc Reference Network), SGRN (Slovak Geodynamic Reference Network) and local network TATRY shortly described in this paper. Homogeneous velocity field obtained from the final combination is for the purpose of better interpretation divided into three parts: Central Europe, Slovakia and Tatra Mountains. Main interest is focused on the territory of Slovakia where the regional velocity field is not so frequently discussed in scientific community as the case of Central and Southeastern Europe.
Modelling Post-molding Warping
Authors: Fan X.-J. , Zheng R. , Liu G. , Tanner R. I. , Edward G.
Published: March 2010

The post-molding warping of injection molded parts is strongly influenced by thermal expansion history. We show that a thermal expansion hysteresis loop occurs, so that heating and cooling curves can sometimes be different, due to microstructural changes. Following an extensive investigation of thermal expansion for a polypropylene, we propose a model to predict the specific volume change during post thermal treatments. The model predictions are in good agreement with the experimental measurements.
Modelling Post-molding Warping
Authors: Fan X.-J. , Zheng R. , Liu G. , Tanner R. I. , Edward G.
Published: March 2010

This paper describes how to use the semi-empirical thermal expansion model, proposed in Part 1 of this paper (Fan et al., 2010), to simulate the post-molding warping of injection molded parts during the post thermal treatment. The post-molding warping of a viscoelastic ribbed plate and a fibre reinforced ribbed plate are simulated using a finite element method. The results of simulations showed that the post-molding warping due to the thermal treatment for viscoelastic ribbed plate is much larger than the de-mold warpage, in contrast to results for fibre reinforced ribbed plates.
Multiscale Simulation of Injection Molding of Parts with Low Aspect Ratio Microfeatures
Authors: Tofteberg T. R. , Andreassen E.
Published: March 2010

This article presents a simulation study of the injection molding of a macroscopic part with microfeatures; an optical grating with amplitude 0.6 μm and period 3 μm. The aim of the simulations is to develop a procedure capable of predicting the replication of optical gratings based on the injection molding processing parameters. Three coupled simulations are performed. 1.) A macroscopic simulation of the flow in the part without microfeatures. 2.) A microscale flow simulation in a domain around a single microfeature using the pressure from the macroscopic simulation as input. 3.) A thermal simulation of the mold wall coupled to the microscale simulation. In the simulations the polymer melt is treated as a generalized Newtonian fluid. Shear viscosity and thermal properties were characterized as part of the study. Other physical effects such as wall adhesion and elasticity are discussed, but not included in the present model. The simulation results agree well with the experimental replication data, and correctly describe how small changes in the mold temperature can lead to large changes in the replication.
Reframing Floods: Proposals and Politics
Authors: Wesselink Anna , Warner Jeroen
Published: February 2010

The aim of this special volume is to critically examine the various ways in which floods and flood management are framed in current policies, especially the “space for rivers” policies that have been adopted in many countries of Western Europe. The articles in this volume discuss different aspects of this framing, while employing different theoretical frames. Of these, Spiral Dynamics stands out as the most intriguing and least known. The papers thereby potentially contribute to reframing policy contents and/or procedures: either because they show alternative policy contents and/or because they show different ways of looking at policy making. This introductory article provides an overview of what framing means in a policy-making context, thereby highlighting the politics of engaging in (re)framing.
Reframing Polyrational Floodplains: Land Policy for Large Areas for Temporary Emergency Retention
Authors: Hartmann Thomas
Published: February 2010

Why are recent attempts to give space to the rivers so unsuccessful? Floodplain management is a complex social process with many stakeholders, who pursue different rationalities before, during, and after floods. The resulting patterns of activities of the stakeholders have led to a technological lock-in. This article uses Cultural Theory to analyze the stakeholders' different framing of floodplain management. The concept of Large Areas for Temporary Emergency Retention (LATER) is then introduced as a way to create space for the rivers. Its implementation can be facilitated if the different rationalities, framing the patterns of activity in the floodplains are taken into account. Therefore, based on interviews with landowners, water managers, land use planners, and policymakers the rationalities are uncovered and different proposals for land policies are presented. The result is a land policy based on an obligatory insurance against natural hazards.
Leadership in Policy Innovation: A Conceptual Map
Authors: Scholten Peter
Published: February 2010

Policy innovation is necessary for many environmental issues such as climate change and water management. Highly motivated individuals, who are both willing and able to take the lead and press home innovative proposals and as such transform existing policy, are vital in this process. This article focuses on such individuals. An exploration of the literature is confronted with the findings of an empirical study among local policy makers with a reputation for daring. The result is a conceptual map that can be used to further explore and understand the role of leadership and particularly daring decision making in environmental policy innovation.
Reframing Floods: Consequences for Urban Riverfront Developments in Northwest Europe
Authors: Spits Jos , Needham Barrie , Smits Toine , Brinkhof Twan
Published: February 2010

Many historical cities are built alongside rivers. Floodplains were attractive sites for urban expansion. However, the flood events since the 1990's have shown that many urban settlements are under flood risk. This research investigates how flood management and land use planning policies have changed after high water and (near)floods in the Netherlands, Germany, and France. In particular, it investigates how changing policies affect the development of urban riverfronts. Policy documents have been analyzed from all three countries and case studies illustrate the impact of changing policies on concrete developments.
Social-Ecological Systems Governance: From Paradigm to Management Approach
Authors: Frantzeskaki Niki , Slinger Jill , Vreugdenhil Heleen , van Daalen Els
Published: February 2010

This article presents the reframing of flood management practices in the light of social-ecological systems governance. It presents an exploratory theoretical analysis of social-ecological systems (SES) governance complemented by insights from case study analysis. It identifies a mismatch between the goals of the underlying ecosystem paradigms and their manifestation in management practice. The Polder Altenheim case study is an illustration of the consequences of flood management practices that do not match their underlying paradigm. The article recommends two institutional arrangements that will allow institutions to increase their capacity to co-evolve with SES dynamics: (a) institutional arrangements to ensure and enable openness in actor participation, and (b) institutional arrangements to enable updating of the management practices in response to SES dynamics.
Evolution of River Management: Up to Integrated and Beyond
Authors: Straatsma Menno W. , de Nooij Reinier J.W.
Published: February 2010

Integrated river management is heralded as the new style of river management, but it has been preceded by a number of previous styles, and is unlikely to be the last. This article presents the first analysis of the evolution of river management using Spiral Dynamics (SD). SD provides a growth hierarchy of value systems (vMemes), reflecting increasing complexity and inclusiveness ranging from instinctive to holistic. Based on an interpretation of literature and policy documents, we conclude that (1) SD provides a broad interpretative framework that can be applied in all river basins, (2) river management in the Netherlands shows the subsequent dominance of the blue, orange, and green vMeme, yellow is at the take-off phase, (3) further transition to yellow integrated river management requires identification of barriers to change. We give an overview and policy implications. Further research should be oriented towards quantification of vMemes in stakeholders and landscaping measures.
Waterjet dissection in pediatric cranioplasty
Authors: Tschan Christoph A. , Hermann Elvis J. , Wagner Wolfgang , Krauss Joachim K. , Oertel Joachim M. K.
Published: March 2010

Object

Waterjet dissection has been shown to separate tissues of different resistance, with preservation of blood vessels. In cranioplasty, separation of subcutaneous tissue and dura mater is often difficult to achieve because the various tissue layers strongly adhere to each other after decompressive craniotomy. In the present study, the potential advantages and drawbacks of the waterjet technique in cranioplasty after craniectomy and duraplasty are addressed.

Methods

The waterjet effect on fresh human cadaveric dura mater specimens as well as on several dural repair patches was tested in vitro under standardized conditions, with waterjet pressures up to 80 bar. Subsequently, 8 pediatric patients (5 boys, 3 girls; mean age 9.9 years, range 1.2–16.7 years) who had been subjected to decompressive craniectomy (7 with duraplasty including bovine pericardium as a dural substitute, 1 without duraplasty in congenital craniosynostosis) underwent waterjet cranioplasty. The waterjet was used to separate the galea and the dura mater. The technique was applied tangentially between the dura and the galea, with different pressure levels up to 50 bar.

Results

In vitro, fresh cadaveric human dura mater as well as 2 different dural repair substitutes showed a very high resistance to waterjet dissection up to 80 bar. The human dura and the various substitutes were dissected only after long-lasting exposure to the waterjet. Human dura was perforated at pressures of 60 bar and higher. Bovine pericardium dural substitute was perforated at pressures of 55 bar and higher. Artificial nonabsorbable polyesterurethane dural substitute was dissected at pressures of 60 bar and higher. In the clinical setting, the waterjet was able to separate galea and dura with minimal bleeding. No blood transfusion was required. Dissection of scarred tissue was possible by a waterjet of 40 bar pressure. Tissue layers were stretched and separated by the waterjet dissection, and a very reliable hemostasis resulted. This resulted in an effective reduction of bleeding, with < 60 ml blood loss in 7 of the 8 cases. Neither a dural tear nor a perforation of any duraplasty occurred during operative preparation. There were no operative or postoperative complications.

Conclusions

The experimental and clinical data show that waterjet separation of dura mater, dural substitute, and galea can be performed with a high level of safety to avoid dural tears. The waterjet dissection stretches tissue layers, which results in a reliable hemostasis effect. This potentially results in an effective reduction of surgical blood loss, which should be the focus of further studies.
Cerebrospinal fluid leak with recurrent meningitis following tonsillectomy
Authors: Hervey-Jumper Shawn L. , Ghori Ahmer K. , Quint Douglas J. , Marentette Lawrence J. , Maher Cormac O.
Published: March 2010

The authors report an unusual case of bilateral large petrous apex cephaloceles in a 14-year-old boy with a history of recurrent meningitis. Although these lesions are rare and usually asymptomatic, surgical correction is recommended if they are associated with a persistent CSF leak. In this patient, the extensive bilateral cranial defects were not adequately treated by an intracranial approach alone. Repair of a defect in the posterior pharyngeal wall, the site of a prior tonsillectomy, ultimately resulted in repair of the CSF fistula.
Malignant giant cell tumor in the posterior fossa of a neonate
Authors: Karamanakos Petros N. , Jaaskelainen Juha E. , Alafuzoff Irina , Pirinen Elina , Vanninen Ritva , Silvennoinen Sanna , Sankilampi Ulla , Immonen Arto
Published: March 2010

Giant cell tumors (GCTs) of the bone are rare, usually benign but locally aggressive neoplasms that primarily occur in the epiphyses of long bones. They seldom develop in the cranium; when they do, they involve principally the sphenoid and temporal bones. These tumors usually affect young adults, and few reports in children have been published. Primary malignant GCTs of the skull are even more uncommon. The 3 published cases all involved adults over 40 years of age. Herein, the authors present a case of a highly aggressive primary malignant GCT of the posterior fossa in a 5-week old preterm infant. One month after the gross-total resection of the tumor found in the bone, the infant's condition rapidly deteriorated and she died. Magnetic resonance imaging and postmortem examination revealed a tumor larger than it had been before the operation, with expansion toward the brain. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the youngest patient reported with a primary malignant GCT of the skull, and actually the first case in a pediatric patient. In addition, the extremely high growth rate of the tumor in the postoperative period renders this case the most aggressive primary malignant GCT of the cranium described so far.
High-Pressure Study of Anatase TiO2
Authors: Jaćimović Jaćim , Vâju Cristian , Gaál Richard , Magrez Arnaud , Berger Helmuth , Forró László
Published: March 2010

We report resistivity and thermo-electric power measurements of the anatase phase of TiO2under pressure up to 2.3 GPa. Despite its transparent appearance, the single crystal of anatase exhibits a metallic-like resistivity above 60 K, at all pressures. The rather high value of the thermo-electric power at room temperature points to complex transport mechanism in this phase.
Staphylococcus Aureus Peritonitis in Australian Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: Predictors, Treatment, and Outcomes in 503 Cases
Authors: Govindarajulu Sridevi , Hawley Carmel Mary , McDonald Stephen P. , Brown Fiona G. , Rosman Johan B. , Wiggins Kathryn J. , Bannister Kym M. , Johnson David W.
Published: February 2010

Staphylococcus aureus peritonitis is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Since reports of the course and treatment of S. aureus peritonitis have generally been limited to small, single-center studies, the aim of the current investigation was to examine the frequency, predictors, treatment, and clinical outcomes of this condition in all 4675 patients receiving PD in Australia between 1 October 2003 and 31 December 2006. 3594 episodes of peritonitis occurred in 1984 patients and 503 (14%) episodes of S. aureus peritonitis occurred in 355 (8%) individuals. 273 (77%) patients experienced 1 episode of S. aureus peritonitis, 52 (15%) experienced 2 episodes, 19 (5%) experienced 3 episodes, and 11 (3%) experienced 4 or more episodes. The predominant antibiotics used as initial empiric therapy were vancomycin (61%) and cephazolin (31%). Once S. aureus was isolated and identified, the prescription of vancomycin did not appreciably change for methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) peritonitis (59%) and increased for methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) peritonitis (84%). S. aureus peritonitis was associated with a higher rate of relapse than non-S. aureus peritonitis (20% vs 13%, p < 0.001) but comparable rates of hospitalization (67% vs 70%, p = 0.2), catheter removal (23% vs 21%, p = 0.4), hemodialysis transfer (18% vs 18%, p = 0.6), and death (2.2% vs 2.3%, p = 0.9). MRSA peritonitis was independently predictive of an increased risk of permanent hemodialysis transfer [odds ratio (OR) 2.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17 – 3.82] and tended to be associated with an increased risk of hospitalization (OR 2.00, 95% CI 0.96 – 4.19). The initial empiric antibiotic choice between vancomycin and cephazolin was not significantly associated with clinical outcomes, but serious adverse outcomes were more likely if vancomycin was not used for subsequent treatment of MRSA peritonitis. In conclusion, S. aureus peritonitis is a serious complication of PD, involves a small proportion of patients, and is associated with a high rate of relapse and repeat episodes. Other adverse clinical outcomes are similar to those for peritonitis overall but are significantly worse for MRSA peritonitis. Empiric initial therapy with either vancomycin or cephazolin results in comparable outcomes, provided vancomycin is prescribed when MRSA is isolated and identified.
TWO‐SAMPLE PROBLEMS IN STATISTICAL DATA MODELLING
Authors: Valeinis Janis , Cers Edmunds , Cielens Juris
Published: March 2010

A common problem in mathematical statistics is to check whether two samples differ from each other. From modelling point of view it is possible to make a statistical test for the equality of two means or alternatively two distribution functions. The second approach allows to represent the two‐sample test graphically. This can be done by adding simultaneous confidence bands to the probability‐probability (P — P) or quantile‐quantile (Q — Q) plots. In this paper we compare empirically the accuracy of the classical two‐sample t‐test, empirical likelihood method and several bootstrap methods. For a real data example both Q — Q and P — P plots with simultaneous confidence bands have been plotted using the smoothed empirical likelihood and smoothed bootstrap methods.
NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF LASER DIODE LONGITUDINALLY PUMPED SOLID‐STATE LASER GENERATION DYNAMICS USING TRAVELING WAVE MODEL
Authors: Dementjev Aleksandr , Čiegis Raimondas , Laukaitytė Ingrida , Slavinskis Nerijus
Published: March 2010

A detailed theoretical model for the description of generation dynamics of diode laser longitudinally pumped solid‐state lasers with active and/or passive Q‐switching using traveling wave approach is presented. The results of numerical simulations and analysis show that the distribution of generated laser pulse intensity and the other laser parameters along the resonator is very inhomogeneous. Therefore, the widely used point laser model cannot give accurate results when inside the resonator there are active or passive elements which lead to the strong modulation of the generated pulse intensities.
MULTIGRID FOURIER ANALYSIS ON SEMI‐STRUCTURED ANISOTROPIC MESHES FOR VECTOR PROBLEMS
Authors: Gaspar Francisco J. , Lisbona Francisco J. , Rodrigo Carmen
Published: March 2010

An efficient multigrid finite element method for vector problems on triangular anisotropic semi‐structured grids is proposed. This algorithm is based on zebra line‐type smoothers to overcome the difficulties arising when multigrid is applied on stretched meshes. In order to choose the type of multigrid cycle and the number of pre‐ and post‐smoothing steps, a three‐grid Fourier analysis is done. To this end, local Fourier analysis (LFA) on triangular grids for scalar problems is extended to the vector case. To illustrate the good performance of the method, a system of reaction‐diffusion is considered as model problem. A very satisfactory global convergence factor is obtained by using a V(0,2)‐cycle for domains triangulated with highly anisotropic meshes.
Kyphoplasty for the Treatment of Painful Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures
Authors: Gan Minfeng , Yang Huilin , Zhou Feng , Zou Jun , Wang Genlin , Mei Xin , Qian Zhonglai , Chen Liang
Published: March 2010

This study explored the feasibility and clinical outcome of kyphoplasty for the treatment of painful osteoporotic thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurological deficit. A total of 25 consecutive patients with painful type-A3 amyelic thoracolumbar fractures without neurological deficit were treated by kyphoplasty. Pain was measured using the self-reporting visual analog pain scale (VAS) preoperatively, postoperatively, and at 6-month follow-up. Disability was measured using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) preoperatively, postoperatively, and at 6-month follow-up. The height of the fractured vertebral body, kyphotic angle, and spinal canal compromise were measured preoperatively, postoperatively, and at 6-month follow-up. Relief of pain was achieved 24 hours postoperatively. Mean VAS score decreased from 8.2±1.3 preoperatively to 2.8±0.8 postoperatively (
P
<.05), and was maintained at 2.9±1.1 at 6-month follow-up. The ODI score varied from 68.2%±6.6% preoperatively to 35.3%±2.8% postoperatively (
P
<.05). Improvement was maintained at 6-month follow-up. Postoperatively, the height of anterior vertebrae (Ha) was restored from 61.5%±13.9% to 85.3%±10.6%, the height of midline vertebrae (Hm) restored from 73.0%±19.3% to 83.3%±7.4%, the kyphotic angle from 21.7°±7.8° to 8.6°±6.6°, and the spinal canal compromise from 20.1%±4.1% to 17.8%±1.3%. At 6-month follow-up, maintenance of the height restoration and kyphotic deformity correction was found. No significant difference was noted in pre- and postoperative spinal canal compromise. Kyphoplasty is a relatively safe and effective method for the treatment of painful osteoporotic thoracolumbar burst fractures.
Antimicrobial Peptides Human β-Defensins and Cathelicidin LL-37 Induce the Secretion of a Pruritogenic Cytokine IL-31 by Human Mast Cells
Authors: Niyonsaba François , Ushio Hiroko , Hara Mutsuko , Yokoi Hidenori , Tominaga Mitsutoshi , Takamori Kenji , Kajiwara Naoki , Saito Hirohisa , Nagaoka Isao , Ogawa Hideoki , Okumura Ko
Published: February 2010

In addition to their microbiocidal properties, human β-defensins (hBDs) and cathelicidin LL-37 stimulate a number of mammalian cell activities, including migration, proliferation, and cytokine/chemokine production. Because hBDs and LL-37 cause mast cells to release pruritogens such as histamine and PGs, we hypothesized that these peptides would stimulate the secretion of a novel pruritogenic mediator IL-31, predominantly produced by T cells. hBDs and LL-37 enhanced IL-31 gene expression and IL-31 protein production and release in the human mast cell line LAD2, as well as in peripheral blood-derived cultured mast cells, suggesting that mast cells are another source of IL-31. Moreover, the expression of IL-31 was elevated in psoriatic skin mast cells, and hBD-2–4 and LL-37, but not hBD-1, enhanced its expression in vivo in rat skin mast cells. hBDs and LL-37 also induced the release of other pruritogenic mediators, including IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, GM-CSF, nerve growth factor, PGE2, and leukotriene C4, and increased mRNA expression of substance P. hBD– and LL-37–mediated IL-31 production/release was markedly reduced by pertussis toxin and wortmannin, inhibitors of G-protein and PI3K, respectively. As evidenced by the inhibitory effects of MAPK-specific inhibitors, hBD-2–4 and LL-37 activated the phosphorylation of MAPKs p38, ERK, and JNK that were required for IL-31 production and release. The ability of hBDs and LL-37 to stimulate the production and release of IL-31 by human mast cells provides a novel mechanism by which skin-derived antimicrobial peptides/proteins may contribute to inflammatory reactions and suggests a central role of these peptides in the pathogenesis of skin disorders.
Th1 Cytokine Responses Fail to Effectively Control Chlamydia Lung Infection in ICOS Ligand Knockout Mice
Authors: Kadkhoda Kamran , Wang Shuhe , Joyee Antony George , Fan Yijun , Yang Jie , Yang Xi
Published: February 2010

ICOS ligand (ICOSL) plays an important role in controlling specific aspects of T cell activation, differentiation, and function. Th1-type immune responses have been shown to be critical in host defense against chlamydial infections. To assess the role of ICOSL–ICOS interaction in host defense against chlamydial infection, we compared the immune responses and pathological reactions in ICOSL gene knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice following Chlamydia muridarum lung infection. The results showed that ICOSL KO mice exhibited greater body weight loss, higher pathogen burden, and more severe histopathology in their lung than did WT mice. Cytokine analysis revealed that ICOSL KO mice produced lower levels of Th2 (IL-4 and IL-5) and anti-inflammatory (TGF-β1 and IL-10) cytokines, but higher Th1-related (IFN-γ and IL-12p40/IL-23) and proinflammatory (IL-6 and TNF-α) cytokines. ICOSL KO mice also showed reduced Chlamydia-specific Ab levels in their sera and lung homogenates. In addition, ICOSL KO mice demonstrated significantly lower ICOS expression in T cells and lower Th17 responses than did WT mice. Finally, we showed that ICOS–ICOSL interaction and cell–cell contact are essential for CD4+ T cells to inhibit chlamydial growth in the cultured lung fibroblasts. The data suggest that ICOSL plays a significant role in immunoregulation and protective immunity against Chlamydia infections and that the Th1 skew in cytokine responses per se is not sufficient for effective control of Chlamydia infections.
Bacterial Teichoic Acids Reverse Predominant IL-12 Production Induced by Certain Lactobacillus Strains into Predominant IL-10 Production via TLR2-Dependent ERK Activation in Macrophages
Authors: Kaji Rumi , Kiyoshima-Shibata Junko , Nagaoka Masato , Nanno Masanobu , Shida Kan
Published: February 2010

The cytokine response of macrophages to probiotic lactobacilli varies between strains, and the balance of IL-10/IL-12 production is crucial for determination of the direction of the immune response. To clarify the mechanism whereby Lactobacillus strains differentially induce production of IL-10 and IL-12, we examined the potential relationship between cytokine production and MAPK activation. In mouse peritoneal macrophages, Lactobacillus plantarum potently induced IL-10 but weakly induced IL-12 production, whereas L. casei potently induced IL-12 but weakly induced IL-10 production. Kinetic analysis of the activation of ERK, p38, and JNK showed that L. plantarum induced a more rapid and intense activation of MAPKs, especially of ERK, than L. casei. A selective blockade of ERK activation induced by L. plantarum resulted in a decrease in IL-10 production and a simultaneous increase in IL-12 production. Interestingly, when macrophages were stimulated with a combination of L. plantarum and L. casei, IL-10 production was induced synergistically. We identified cell wall teichoic acid and lipoteichoic acid as key factors for triggering the synergistic induction of IL-10 production, although these teichoic acids alone only weakly induced IL-10 production. The effect of these teichoic acids on IL-10 production was mediated by TLR2-dependent ERK activation. Our data demonstrate that activation of the ERK pathway is critical for determination of the balance of the IL-10/IL-12 response of macrophages to lactobacilli and that predominant IL-12 production induced by certain lactobacilli such as L. casei can be converted into predominant IL-10 production when stimulated in the presence of teichoic acids.
IL-32 Is a Host Protective Cytokine against Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Differentiated THP-1 Human Macrophages
Authors: Bai Xiyuan , Kim Soo-Hyun , Azam Tania , McGibney Mischa T. , Huang Hua , Dinarello Charles A. , Chan Edward D.
Published: February 2010

Macrophages provide a first line of defense against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. However, in instances where macrophage activation for killing is suboptimal, M. tuberculosis is capable of surviving intracellularly. IL-32 is a recently described cytokine induced by M. tuberculosis in a variety of cell types including human monocytes and macrophages. In this study, we investigated the biological significance of IL-32 in an in vitro model of M. tuberculosis infection in differentiated THP-1 human macrophages in which IL-32 expression was silenced using stable expression of short hairpin RNA (shRNA). Inhibition of endogenous IL-32 production in THP-1 cells that express one of three distinct shRNA-IL-32 constructs significantly decreased M. tuberculosis induction of TNF-α by ∼60%, IL-1β by 30–60%, and IL-8 by 40–50% and concomitantly increased the number of cell-associated M. tuberculosis bacteria compared with THP-1 cells stably expressing a scrambled shRNA. In THP-1 cells infected with M. tuberculosis and stimulated with rIL-32, a greater level of apoptosis was observed compared with that with M. tuberculosis infection alone. Obversely, there was significant abrogation of apoptosis induced by M. tuberculosis and a concomitant decrease in caspase-3 activation in cells depleted of endogenous IL-32. rIL-32γ significantly reduced the number of viable intracellular M. tuberculosis bacteria, which was modestly but significantly abrogated with a caspase-3 inhibitor. We conclude that IL-32 plays a host defense role against M. tuberculosis in differentiated THP-1 human macrophages.
MHC Class I Molecules with Superenhanced CD8 Binding Properties Bypass the Requirement for Cognate TCR Recognition and Nonspecifically Activate CTLs
Authors: Wooldridge Linda , Clement Mathew , Lissina Anna , Edwards Emily S. J. , Ladell Kristin , Ekeruche Julia , Hewitt Rachel E. , Laugel Bruno , Gostick Emma , Cole David K. , Debets Reno , Berrevoets Cor , Miles John J. , Burrows Scott R. , Price David A. , Sewell Andrew K.
Published: February 2010

CD8+ CTLs are essential for effective immune defense against intracellular microbes and neoplasia. CTLs recognize short peptide fragments presented in association with MHC class I (MHCI) molecules on the surface of infected or dysregulated cells. Ag recognition involves the binding of both TCR and CD8 coreceptor to a single ligand (peptide MHCI [pMHCI]). The TCR/pMHCI interaction confers Ag specificity, whereas the pMHCI/CD8 interaction mediates enhanced sensitivity to Ag. Striking biophysical differences exist between the TCR/pMHCI and pMHCI/CD8 interactions; indeed, the pMHCI/CD8 interaction can be >100-fold weaker than the cognate TCR/pMHCI interaction. In this study, we show that increasing the strength of the pMHCI/CD8 interaction by ∼15-fold results in nonspecific, cognate Ag-independent pMHCI tetramer binding at the cell surface. Furthermore, pMHCI molecules with superenhanced affinity for CD8 activate CTLs in the absence of a specific TCR/pMHCI interaction to elicit a full range of effector functions, including cytokine/chemokine release, degranulation and proliferation. Thus, the low solution binding affinity of the pMHCI/CD8 interaction is essential for the maintenance of CTL Ag specificity.
IFN-β Inhibits Dendritic Cell Migration through STAT-1–Mediated Transcriptional Suppression of CCR7 and Matrix Metalloproteinase 9
Authors: Yen Jui-Hung , Kong Weimin , Ganea Doina
Published: February 2010

IFN-β is an approved therapeutic option for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. The molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of IFN-β in multiple sclerosis are not fully understood. Migration of dendritic cells (DCs) from the inflammatory site to draining lymph nodes for Ag presentation and activation of naive T cells and to the CNS for reactivation of encephalitogenic T cells requires CCR7 and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 expression. This article reports for the first time that IFN-β inhibits CCR7 expression and MMP-9 production in mature DCs and reduces their migratory capacity. The effect of IFN-β is mediated through STAT-1. In vivo treatment with IFN-β results in lower numbers of DCs migrating to the draining lymph node following exposure to FITC and in reduced expression of CCR7 and MMP-9 in splenic CD11c+ DCs following LPS administration. IFN-β and IFN-γ share the same properties in terms of their effects on CCR7, MMP-9, and DC migration, but they have opposite effects on IL-12 production. In addition, IFN-β–treated DCs have a significantly reduced capacity for activating CD4+ T cells and generating IFN-γ–producing Th1 cells. The suppression of mature DC migration through negative regulation of CCR7 and MMP-9 expression represents a novel mechanism for the therapeutic effect of IFN-β.
Antibody-Dependent Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity- and Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity-Independent Bactericidal Activity of an IgG against Pseudomonas aeruginosa O6ad
Authors: Xie Xuemei , McLean Michael D. , Hall J. Christopher
Published: February 2010

In addition to Ag recognition, some Abs are capable of killing target organisms in the absence of phagocytes and complement. In this study, we report that an anti-Pseudomonas aeruginosa O6ad LPS IgG1, tobacco-expressed human S20 IgG1 (te-hS20), as well as its recombinant Fab and single-chain variable fragment (scFv) fragments have cellular- and complement-independent bactericidal activity. te-hS20 and its Fab and scFv significantly reduced viability of P. aeruginosa O6ad in dose- and time-dependent manners in vitro and also showed lower levels of bactericidal activity against P. aeruginosa PAO1, but had no activity against P. aeruginosa O10, Escherichia coli TG1, and Streptococcus agalactiae. The H chain and its Fd fragment both had significant Ag-binding and bactericidal activities against P. aeruginosa O6ad. Bactericidal activity was completely inhibited with specific LPS Ag, suggesting that Ag binding is involved in the bactericidal mechanism. Live/dead cell staining and electron microscopic observations indicate that the bactericidal effect was due to disruption of the cell wall and suggest inhibition of cell division. In addition to te-hS20, the Fab and scFv were also protective in vivo, as leukopenic mice had prolonged and improved survival after administration of these Ab fragments followed by challenge with P. aeruginosa O6ad cells at 80–90% lethal dose, supporting a bactericidal mechanism independent of phagocytes and complement. Understanding of the bactericidal mechanism will allow assessment of the potential for therapeutic application of these Abs.