bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Cation-Dependent Chloride Transporters in Neuropathic Pain Following Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Cramer Samuel W , Baggott Christopher , Cain John , Tilghman Jessica , Allcock Bradley , Miranpuri Gurwattan , Rajpal Sharad , Sun Dandan , Resnick Daniel
Published: May 2012

Background:

Altered Cl− homeostasis and GABAergic function are associated with nociceptive input hypersensitivity. This study investigated the role of two major intracellular Cl− regulatory proteins, Na+-K+-Cl− cotransporter 1 (NKCC1) and K+-Cl− cotransporter 2 (KCC2), in neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury (SCI).

Results:

Sprague-Dawley rats underwent a contusive SCI at T9 using the MASCIS impactor. The rats developed hyperalgesia between days 21 and 42 post-SCI. Thermal hyperalgesia (TH) was determined by a decrease in hindpaw thermal withdrawal latency time (WLT) between days 21 and 42 post-SCI. Rats with TH were then treated with either vehicle (saline containing 0.25% NaOH) or NKCC1 inhibitor bumetanide (BU, 30 mg/kg, i.p.) in vehicle. TH was then re-measured at 1 h post-injection. Administration of BU significantly increased the mean WLT in rats (p < 0.05). The group administered with the vehicle alone showed no anti-hyperalgesic effects. Moreover, an increase in NKCC1 protein expression occurred in the lesion epicenter of the spinal cord during day 2–14 post-SCI and peaked on day 14 post-SCI (p < 0.05). Concurrently, a down-regulation of KCC2 protein was detected during day 2–14 post-SCI. The rats with TH exhibited a sustained loss of KCC2 protein during post-SCI days 21–42. No significant changes of these proteins were detected in the rostral region of the spinal cord.

Conclusion:

Taken together, expression of NKCC1 and KCC2 proteins was differentially altered following SCI. The anti-hyperalgesic effect of NKCC1 inhibition suggests that normal or elevated NKCC1 function and loss of KCC2 function play a role in the development and maintenance of SCI-induced neuropathic pain.
Recombinant Ecto-5′-Nucleotidase (CD73) Has Long Lasting Antinociceptive Effects That are Dependent on Adenosine A1 Receptor Activation
Authors: Sowa Nathaniel A , Voss Meagen K , Zylka Mark J
Published: May 2012

Background:

Ecto-5-nucleotidase (NT5E, also known as CD73) hydrolyzes extracellular adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP) to adenosine in nociceptive circuits. Since adenosine has antinociceptive effects in rodents and humans, we hypothesized that NT5E, an enzyme that generates adenosine, might also have antinociceptive effects in vivo.

Results:

To test this hypothesis, we purified a soluble version of mouse NT5E (mNT5E) using the baculovirus expression system. Recombinant mNT5E hydrolyzed AMP in biochemical assays and was inhibited by α,β-methylene-adenosine 5′-diphosphate (α,β-me-ADP; IC50 = 0.43 μM), a selective inhibitor of NT5E. mNT5E exhibited a dose-dependent thermal antinociceptive effect that lasted for two days when injected intrathecally in wild-type mice. In addition, mNT5E had thermal antihyperalgesic and mechanical antiallodynic effects that lasted for two days in the complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) model of inflammatory pain and the spared nerve injury (SNI) model of neuropathic pain. In contrast, mNT5E had no antinociceptive effects when injected intrathecally into adenosine A1 receptor ( A1 R, Adora1) knockout mice.

Conclusion:

Our data indicate that the long lasting antinociceptive effects of mNT5E are due to hydrolysis of AMP followed by activation of A1R. Moreover, our data suggest recombinant NT5E could be used to treat chronic pain and to study many other physiological processes that are regulated by NT5E.
On the complexity of miRNA-mediated regulation in plants: novel insights into the genomic organization of plant miRNAs
Authors: Colaiacovo Moreno , Lamontanara Antonella , Bernardo Letizia , Alberici Renzo , Crosatti Cristina , Giusti Lorenzo , Cattivelli Luigi , Faccioli Primetta
Published: May 2012

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous small non-coding RNAs of about 20–24 nt, known to play key roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation, that can be coded either by intergenic or intragenic loci. Intragenic (exonic and intronic) miRNAs can exert a role in the transcriptional regulation and RNA processing of their host gene. Moreover, the possibility that the biogenesis of exonic miRNAs could destabilize the corresponding protein-coding transcript and reduce protein synthesis makes their characterization very intriguing and suggests a possible novel mechanism of post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression.

This work was designed to carry out the computational identification of putative exonic miRNAs in 30 plant species and the analysis of possible mechanisms involved in their regulation.

The results obtained represent a useful starting point for future studies on the complex networks involved in microRNA-mediated gene regulation in plants.
Bone to pick: the importance of evaluating reference genes for RT-qPCR quantification of gene expression in craniosynostosis and bone-related tissues and cells
Authors: Yang Xianxian , Hatfield Jodie T , Hinze Susan J , Mu Xiongzheng , Anderson Peter J , Powell Barry C
Published: May 2012

Background

RT-qPCR is a common tool for quantification of gene expression, but its accuracy is dependent on the choice and stability (steady state expression levels) of the reference gene/s used for normalization. To date, in the bone field, there have been few studies to determine the most stable reference genes and, usually, RT-qPCR data is normalised to non-validated reference genes, most commonly GAPDH, ACTB and 18 S rRNA. Here we draw attention to the potential deleterious impact of using classical reference genes to normalise expression data for bone studies without prior validation of their stability.

Results

Using the geNorm and Normfinder programs, panels of mouse and human genes were assessed for their stability under three different experimental conditions: 1) disease progression of Crouzon syndrome (craniosynostosis) in a mouse model, 2) proliferative culture of cranial suture cells isolated from craniosynostosis patients and 3) osteogenesis of a mouse bone marrow stromal cell line. We demonstrate that classical reference genes are not always the most ‘stable’ genes and that gene ‘stability’ is highly dependent on experimental conditions. Selected stable genes, individually or in combination, were then used to normalise osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase gene expression data during cranial suture fusion in the craniosynostosis mouse model and strategies compared. Strikingly, the expression trends of alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin varied significantly when normalised to the least stable, the most stable or the three most stable genes.

Conclusion

To minimise errors in evaluating gene expression levels, analysis of a reference panel and subsequent normalization to several stable genes is strongly recommended over normalization to a single gene. In particular, we conclude that use of single, non-validated “housekeeping” genes such as GAPDH, ACTB and 18 S rRNA, currently a widespread practice by researchers in the bone field, is likely to produce data of questionable reliability when changes are 2 fold or less, and such data should be interpreted with due caution.
Receptor cleavage and P-selectin-dependent reduction of leukocyte adhesion in the spontaneously hypertensive rat
Authors: Chen Angela Y , Ha Jessica N , DeLano Frank A , Schmid-Schönbein Geert W
Published: May 2012

Elevated matrix metalloproteinase activity in the plasma of the spontaneously hypertensive rat is associated with reduced mesenteric venular extracellular P-selectin density and impaired leukocyte adhesion.

The SHR, a genetic model for hypertension and the metabolic syndrome, has attenuated leukocyte adhesion to the postcapillary endothelium by an unknown mechanism. Based on recent evidence of elevated levels of MMPs in plasma and on microvascular endothelium of the SHR with cleavage of several receptor types, we hypothesize that the reduced leukocyte-endothelial interaction is a result of enhanced proteolytic cleavage of P-selectin on the postcapillary endothelium and PSGL-1 on leukocytes. The attenuated rolling interactions of SHR leukocytes with the endothelium were restored by chronic treatment with a broad-spectrum MMP inhibitor (CGS) for 24 weeks. The SHR MMP levels, in plasma and mesentery, as well as the systolic blood pressure, decreased significantly with treatment. In the SHR mesentery, labeling of P-selectin in the postcapillary venules by immunohistochemistry demonstrated, on average, a 31% lower extracellular P-selectin density compared with the normotensive WKY. A significantly lower extracellular PSGL-1 density on the membranes of SHR neutrophils compared with the WKY also supported our hypothesis. In vivo stimulation of the mesenteric postcapillary venules with histamine demonstrated that the SHR had an attenuated response, as measured by leukocyte rolling velocity on the endothelium. The reduced P-selectin and PSGL-1 density, on SHR postcapillary endothelium and on SHR leukocytes, respectively, was restored significantly by chronic MMP inhibition. The impaired ability of SHR leukocytes to reduce rolling velocity upon inflammatory stimulation led to fewer firmly adhered leukocytes to the endothelium as a contributor to immune suppression.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy With Methotrexate, Cisplatin, and Doxorubicin With or Without Ifosfamide in Nonmetastatic Osteosarcoma of the Extremity: An Italian Sarcoma Group Trial ISG/OS-1
Authors: Ferrari Stefano , Ruggieri Pietro , Cefalo Graziella , Tamburini Angela , Capanna Rodolfo , Fagioli Franca , Comandone Alessandro , Bertulli Rossella , Bisogno Gianni , Palmerini Emanuela , Alberghini Marco , Parafioriti Antonina , Linari Alessandra , Picci Piero , Bacci Gaetano
Published: May 2012

Purpose

We compared two chemotherapy regimens that included methotrexate (MTX), cisplatin (CDP), and doxorubicin (ADM) with or without ifosfamide (IFO) in patients with nonmetastatic osteosarcoma of the extremity.

Patients and Methods

Patients age ≤ 40 years randomly received regimens with the same cumulative doses of drugs (ADM 420 mg/m2, MTX 120 g/m2, CDP 600 mg/m2, and IFO 30 g/m2) but with different durations (arm A, 44 weeks; arm B, 34 weeks). IFO was given postoperatively when pathologic response to MTX-CDP-ADM was poor (arm A) or given in the primary phase of chemotherapy with MTX-CDP-ADM (arm B). End points of the study included pathologic response to preoperative chemotherapy, toxicity, and survival. Given the feasibility of accrual, the statistical plan only permitted detection of a 15% difference in 5-year overall survival (OS).

Results

From April 2001 to December 2006, 246 patients were enrolled. Two hundred thirty patients (94%) underwent limb salvage surgery (arm A, 92%; arm B, 96%; P = .5). Chemotherapy-induced necrosis was good in 45% of patients (48% in arm A, 42% in arm B; P = .3). Four patients died of treatment-related toxicity (arm A, n = 1; arm B, n = 3). A significantly higher incidence of hematologic toxicity was reported in arm B. With a median follow-up of 66 months (range, 1 to 104 months), 5-year OS and event-free survival (EFS) rates were not significantly different between arm A and arm B, with OS being 73% (95% CI, 65% to 81%) in arm A and 74% (95% CI, 66% to 82%) in arm B and EFS being 64% (95% CI, 56% to 73%) in arm A and 55% (95% CI, 46% to 64%) in arm B.

Conclusion

IFO added to MTX, CDP, and ADM from the preoperative phase does not improve the good responder rate and increases hematologic toxicity. IFO should only be considered in patients who have a poor histologic response to MTX, CDP, and ADM.
Randomized Phase II Trial of Everolimus in Combination With Tamoxifen in Patients With Hormone Receptor–Positive, Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2–Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer With Prior Exposure to Aromatase Inhibitors: A GINECO Study
Authors: Bachelot Thomas , Bourgier Céline , Cropet Claire , Ray-Coquard Isabelle , Ferrero Jean-Marc , Freyer Gilles , Abadie-Lacourtoisie Sophie , Eymard Jean-Christophe , Debled Marc , Spaëth Dominique , Legouffe Eric , Allouache Djelila , El Kouri Claude , Pujade-Lauraine Eric
Published: May 2012

Purpose

Cross-talk between signal transduction pathways likely contributes to hormone resistance in metastatic breast cancer (mBC). Everolimus, an oral inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin, has restored sensitivity in endocrine-resistance models and shown anticancer activity in early-phase mBC clinical trials. This analysis evaluated efficacy and safety of everolimus in combination with tamoxifen in patients with mBC resistant to aromatase inhibitors (AIs).

Patients and Methods

This open-label, phase II study randomly assigned postmenopausal women with hormone receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative, AI-resistant mBC to tamoxifen 20 mg/d plus everolimus 10 mg/d (n = 54) or tamoxifen 20 mg/d alone (n = 57). Randomization was stratified by primary and secondary hormone resistance. Primary end point was clinical benefit rate (CBR), defined as the percentage of all patients with a complete or partial response or stable disease at 6 months. No formal statistical comparison between groups was planned.

Results

The 6-month CBR was 61% (95% CI, 47 to 74) with tamoxifen plus everolimus and 42% (95% CI, 29 to 56) with tamoxifen alone. Time to progression (TTP) increased from 4.5 months with tamoxifen alone to 8.6 months with tamoxifen plus everolimus, corresponding to a 46% reduction in risk of progression with the combination (hazard ratio [HR], 0.54; 95% CI, 0.36 to 0.81). Risk of death was reduced by 55% with tamoxifen plus everolimus versus tamoxifen alone (HR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24 to 0.81). The main toxicities associated with tamoxifen plus everolimus were fatigue (72% v 53% with tamoxifen alone), stomatitis (56% v 7%), rash (44% v 7%), anorexia (43% v 18%), and diarrhea (39% v 11%).

Conclusion

This study suggests that tamoxifen plus everolimus increased CBR, TTP, and overall survival compared with tamoxifen alone in postmenopausal women with AI-resistant mBC.
Sunitinib Plus Erlotinib Versus Placebo Plus Erlotinib in Patients With Previously Treated Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Phase III Trial
Authors: Scagliotti Giorgio V. , Krzakowski Maciej , Szczesna Aleksandra , Strausz Janos , Makhson Anatoly , Reck Martin , Wierzbicki Rafal F. , Albert Istvan , Thomas Michael , Miziara Jose Elias Abrao , Papai Zsolt S. , Karaseva Nina , Thongprasert Sumitra , Portulas Elsa Dalmau , von Pawel Joachim , Zhang Ke , Selaru Paulina , Tye Lesley , Chao Richard C. , Govindan Ramaswamy
Published: May 2012

Purpose

Sunitinib plus erlotinib may enhance antitumor activity compared with either agent alone in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), based on the importance of the signaling pathways involved in tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis. This phase III trial investigated overall survival (OS) for sunitinib plus erlotinib versus placebo plus erlotinib in patients with refractory NSCLC.

Patients and Methods

Patients previously treated with one to two chemotherapy regimens (including one platinum-based regimen) for recurrent NSCLC, and for whom erlotinib was indicated, were randomly assigned (1:1) to sunitinib 37.5 mg/d plus erlotinib 150 mg/d or to placebo plus erlotinib 150 mg/d, stratified by prior bevacizumab use, smoking history, and epidermal growth factor receptor expression. The primary end point was OS. Key secondary end points included progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and safety.

Results

In all, 960 patients were randomly assigned, and baseline characteristics were balanced. Median OS was 9.0 months for sunitinib plus erlotinib versus 8.5 months for erlotinib alone (hazard ratio [HR], 0.922; 95% CI, 0.797 to 1.067; one-sided stratified log-rank P = .1388). Median PFS was 3.6 months versus 2.0 months (HR, 0.807; 95% CI, 0.695 to 0.937; one-sided stratified log-rank P = .0023), and ORR was 10.6% versus 6.9% (two-sided stratified log-rank P = .0471), respectively. Treatment-related toxicities of grade 3 or higher, including rash/dermatitis, diarrhea, and asthenia/fatigue were more frequent in the sunitinib plus erlotinib arm.

Conclusion

In patients with refractory NSCLC, sunitinib plus erlotinib did not improve OS compared with erlotinib alone, but the combination was associated with a statistically significantly longer PFS and greater ORR. The incidence of grade 3 or higher toxicities was greater with combination therapy.
Tet family proteins and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in development and disease
Authors: Tan Li , Shi Yujiang Geno
Published: May 2012

Over the past few decades, DNA methylation at the 5-position of cytosine (5-methylcytosine, 5mC) has emerged as an important epigenetic modification that plays essential roles in development, aging and disease. However, the mechanisms controlling 5mC dynamics remain elusive. Recent studies have shown that ten-eleven translocation (Tet) proteins can catalyze 5mC oxidation and generate 5mC derivatives, including 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC). The exciting discovery of these novel 5mC derivatives has begun to shed light on the dynamic nature of 5mC, and emerging evidence has shown that Tet family proteins and 5hmC are involved in normal development as well as in many diseases. In this Primer we provide an overview of the role of Tet family proteins and 5hmC in development and cancer.
Why was the Arab World Poised for Revolution? Schooling, Economic Opportunities, and the Arab Spring
Authors: Campante Filipe R , Chor Davin
Published: May 2012

What underlying long-term conditions set the stage for the Arab Spring? In recent decades, the Arab region has been characterized by an expansion in schooling coupled with weak labor market conditions. This pattern is especially pronounced in those countries that saw significant upheaval during the first year of the Arab Spring uprisings. We argue that the lack of adequate economic opportunities for an increasingly educated populace can help us understand episodes of regime instability such as the Arab Spring.
The Journal of Economic Perspectives and the Marketplace of Ideas: A View from the Founding
Authors: Stiglitz Joseph E
Published: May 2012

I welcome the opportunity to join in the celebration of the twenty-fifth birthday of the Journal of Economic Perspectives. It is wonderful to see how this “baby,” which I, along with Carl Shapiro and Timothy Taylor, nurtured through its formative years—from 1984 (three years before the first issue in 1987) until I left in 1993—has grown up and become an established part of the economics profession. In founding the journal, we had many objectives, hopes, and ambitions. We were concerned about the increasing specialization within the economics profession. We sought to have complex and sometimes arcane or highly mathematical ideas translated into plain English, or at least that dialect of the language known as “Economese”—and in a way that was not only informative but engaging. We were worried too about a growing distance between economics and policy. At least a portion of economic research should be related to ideas that were, or should or would be, part of the national and global policy debates. We began with an explicit commitment to present a diversity of viewpoints, hence the word “perspectives” in the title. One of the goals we set out for ourselves was to disseminate developments within economics more rapidly. We never shied away from controversy at the journal, but we tried to ensure that the discussion was balanced.
The Journal of Economic Perspectives at 100 (Issues)
Authors: Autor David
Published: May 2012

When I was a graduate student, I discovered that the Journal of Economic Perspectives embodied much of what I love about the field of economics: the clarity that pierces rhetoric to seek the core of a question; the rigor to identify the causal relationships, tradeoffs, and indeterminancies inherent in a problem; the self-assurance to apply the disciplinary toolkit to problems both sacred and profane; and the force of logic to reach conclusions that might be unexpected, controversial, or refreshingly bland. It never occurred to me in those years that one day I would edit the journal. While doing so is a privilege and a pleasure, I equally confess that it's no small weight to be the custodial parent of one of our profession's most beloved offspring. No less intimidating is the task of stipulating what this upstart youth has accomplished in its first 25 years and 100 issues in print. Like any empiricist, I recognize that the counterfactual world that would exist without the JEP is unknowable, but my strong hunch is that our profession would be worse off in that counterfactual world. In this essay, I reflect on the journal's accomplishments and articulate some of my own goals for the JEP going forward.
Putting Ricardo to Work
Authors: Eaton Jonathan , Kortum Samuel
Published: May 2012

David Ricardo (1817) provided a mathematical example showing that countries could gain from trade by exploiting innate differences in their ability to make different goods. In the basic Ricardian example, two countries do better by specializing in different goods and exchanging them for each other, even when one country is better at making both. This example typically gets presented in the first or second chapter of a text on international trade, and sometimes appears even in a principles text. But having served its pedagogical purpose, the model is rarely heard from again. The Ricardian model became something like a family heirloom, brought down from the attic to show a new generation of students, and then put back. Nearly two centuries later, however, the Ricardian framework has experienced a revival. Much work in international trade during the last decade has returned to the assumption that countries gain from trade because they have access to different technologies. These technologies may be generally available to producers in a country, as in the Ricardian model of trade, our topic here, or exclusive to individual firms. This line of thought has brought Ricardo's theory of comparative advantage back to center stage. Our goal is to make this new old trade theory accessible and to put it to work on some current issues in the international economy.
The use of anaesthetic for transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy
Authors: Jan K , Mak S M , Ley N , Naisby G , Chadwick D
Published: May 2012

Background

Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy is the gold standard technique for detecting prostate cancer, undertaken routinely without the use of local anaesthetic (LA) in our institution. Current national guidelines provided by The NHS Prostate Cancer Risk Management Programme and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence recommend and support the use of local anaesthetic injection as the most effective form of pain relief.

Methods

The primary aim of the study was to assess the impact of the introduction of national guidelines on the patient's pain perception of the procedure. Secondary aims were to compare the complication rates, i.e. bleeding, symptoms of infection and acceptance of a repeat procedure. A quantitative comparative study was performed. After the procedure, pain was evaluated using a questionnaire containing a visual analogue scale. A total of 75 consecutive patients’ prospective, anonymized questionnaire data, from those who were given LA, were compared with data from 75 patients who underwent prostate biopsy before the introduction of local anaesthetic. Data were analysed using two independent samples tests.

Results

The study findings supported the national clinical guidelines in the routine use of local anaesthetic during transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy: by demonstrating improvement in pain score, decreased reported discomfort and increased tolerability with no additional significant morbidity or complications.

Conclusion

The study has informed future policy and protocols by providing evidence based practice. Current working practice has changed to the routine offer of LA and is at present considered the gold standard.
Die Haftungsrisiken der Geschäftsleitung aufgrund des
befristeten Überschuldungsbegriffs des § 19 Abs. 2 InsO
Authors: Kliebisch René , Linsenbarth Martin
Published: May 2012

Abstract: Vor gut zwei Jahren hat sich der Gesetzgeber für eine Verlängerung des modifizierten zweistufigen Überschuldungsbegriffs des § 19 Abs. 2 InsO bis zum 31. 12. 2013 ausgesprochen. Der mit einem gesetzlich geregelten »Verfallsdatum« verbundene Überschuldungsbegriff wirft die Frage der Vorwirkung auf, die nicht geregelt ist. Für die Geschäftsleitung stellt sich die Frage nach der Durchführung einer rechtmäßigen Fortführungsprognose im Rahmen des § 19 Abs. 2 InsO in den kommenden Jahren gehäuft, da de lege lata Rechtssicherheit nicht besteht.
Keine Rechtssubjektivität der Scheinsozietät
Authors: Weiland Stefan
Published: May 2012

Die sog. Scheinsozietät und deren Haftungsverfassung hat die höchstrichterliche Rechtsprechung in dem vergangenen Jahrzehnt des Öfteren beschäftigt und stets höchst spannende sowie praktisch äußerst relevante Fragen aufgeworfen. Die dabei hervorgetretene Rechtsprechung hat den Berufsalltag einer Vielzahl von Freiberuflern geprägt und verändert. So liegt der Fall auch bei der jüngsten Entscheidung des BGH vom 17. 11. 2011, die eine Überleitung der während des Bestehens einer Scheinsozietät entstandenen Ansprüche auf eine zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt entstehende »echte« Gesellschaft ablehnt. Damit wurde eine weitere Detailfrage zur Haftungsverfassung der Scheinsozietät geklärt, die sowohl für die in einer Scheinsozietät auftretenden Berufsträger als auch für diejenigen, die solchen Berufsträgern durch Mandatierung ihr Vertrauen aussprechen, von erheblicher Bedeutung ist.
Joint Partial Crosstalk Cancellation and Spectrum Management for xDSL Systems with Data Rate Constraints
Authors: Düngen Monique
Published: May 2012

xDSL systems have to be able to support an always increasing amount of high-rate applications. To make the applications run stably, service providers need to be capable of guaranteeing these high data rates to their customers at a limited amount of available computational complexity usable for crosstalk cancellation.

In order to be able to support high data rate targets with a low amount of computational complexity, partial crosstalk cancellation was combined with spectrum management techniques. A selection procedure was found, which jointly chooses the canceled crosstalkers and the transmit powers for each user on each tone by interlacing Iterative Water Filling (IWF) and a newly developed successive crosstalk selection algorithm for partial crosstalk cancellation, which takes into account the data rate requirements of the users. It distributes the available computational complexity in an intelligent way, so that data rate requirements are fulfilled. With the joint procedure savings in computational complexity are achieved.
Success Story of Radar Technology in Automotive Applications
Authors: Meinecke Marc-Michael , Jerhot Jiři
Published: May 2012

The radar technology has a long history of over more than one century. In contrast to this its application in the automotive domain is a quite young activity. The enablers of this relatively new research field are presented in this article from a car manufacturers perspective covering aspects of signal processing algorithms, hardware and driver assistance applications.
Highly Integrated Radar Sensor-on-Chip
Authors: Mende Ralph
Published: May 2012

A highly integrated 24 GHz radar sensor is presented, based on a Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit (RFIC) which was specifically developed for a Frequency Modulated Shift Keying (FMSK) based Radar system design. Antenna, waveform, the Radio Frequency (RF) and Digital Signal Processor (DSP) module, the software design, cost and performance aspects will be described. The significant technical and economical advantages of the implemented Silicon-Germanium (SiGe) Bipolar CMOS (BiCMOS) transceiver are demonstrated. Some automotive and other applications based on this technology and new radar system design will be explained.
„Neues und Kontroverses zur Blutglukosemessung bei der Diabetesdiagnostik: Konsequenzen der aktualisierten DDG- und AWMF-Leitlinien“/“Blood glucose measurement for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus: new and controversial consequences of updated DDG and AWMF guidelines”
Authors: Koschinsky Theodor , Luppa Peter B.
Published: May 2012

Für die Durchführung und Bewertung der Blutglukose (BG)-Messung bei der primären Diabetesdiagnostik sind neue DDG (Deutsche Diabetes-Gesellschaft)- und AWMF (Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlichen Medizinischen Fachgesellschaften)-Leitlinien-Standards festgelegt worden. Diese betreffen folgende Bereiche: Abgrenzung zur HbA1c-Messung; diagnostische BG-Grenzwerte nur noch aus venösem Plasma mit Ausschluss von Kapillarblut; präanalytisch optimierte Glykolysehemmung als sofortige, patientennahe Glukosemessung. Erstmals sind BG-Messungen auch mit geeigneten Unit-Use-Reagenzien und zugehörigen Messsystemen durchführbar, einschließlich externer Qualitätssicherung auch im niedergelassenen Bereich. Die Leitlinien gelten aber nur bei Screening und Diagnostik des Gestationsdiabetes (GDM). Mit dem aktuellen Beschluss des Gemeinsamen Bundesausschusses, generell bei allen Schwangeren die Durchführung der GDM-Diagnostik auf Kosten der Krankenkassen zu empfehlen, ist bei über 600.000 Schwangeren/Jahr in Deutschland zu erwarten, dass dieses diagnostische Prozedere nach den neuen Leitlinienvorgaben deutlich ausgeweitet werden wird. Bei der Umsetzung des Beschlusses des Gemeinsamen Bundesausschusses wird die Kompetenz der Labormedizin nicht nur im analytischen, sondern auch im präanalytisch-logistischen Bereich bei der Zusammenarbeit mit den niedergelassenen Ärzten einzusetzen sein.
Labordiagnostik bei Wachstumshormon-assoziierten Erkrankungen/Biochemical diagnosis of growth hormone related diseases
Authors: Bidlingmaier Martin
Published: May 2012

Die Krankheitsbilder des Wachstumshormonmangels und des Wachstumshormonexzesses imponieren klinisch unterschiedlich vor und nach dem Abschluss des Längenwachstums. Stets jedoch bilden die Messung der zirkulierenden Konzentrationen von Wachstumshormon und Insulinartigem Wachstumsfaktor I (Insulin-like growth-factor I, IGF-I) die Basis der laborchemischen Diagnostik. Mit den Immunoassays stehen praktikable, sensitive und meist auch spezifische Methoden zur Messung beider Hormone zur Verfügung. Trotzdem bestehen nach wie vor gravierende Diskrepanzen zwischen den Messergebnissen verschiedener Assays. Diese Diskrepanzen sind vor allem bedingt durch Unterschiede in der Isoformspezifität der Assays, die Verwendung unterschiedlicher Standardpräparationen sowie die Interferenz von Bindungsproteinen. Die methodenbedingten Unterschiede in den Messergebnissen erschweren die allgemeine Anwendung publizierter diagnostischer Entscheidungsgrenzen. Auf einer interdisziplinären Konsensuskonferenz unter Beteiligung der Growth Hormone Research Society, der IGF Society, und der International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) wurden die bestehenden Probleme analysiert und mögliche Strategien zu einer Verbesserung der Vergleichbarkeit der Messergebnisse verschiedener GH- und IGF-I-Assays aufgezeigt. Derzeit bleibt jedoch in der klinischen Praxis die Anwendung methodenspezifischer, an gut charakterisierten Kollektiven gewonnener Referenzbereiche unabdingbar.
Research Ethics Education for Community-Engaged Research: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Anderson Emily E. , Solomon Stephanie , Heitman Elizabeth , DuBois James M. , Fisher Celia B. , Kost Rhonda G. , Lawless Mary Ellen , Ramsey Cornelia , Jones Bonnie , Ammerman Alice , Ross Lainie Friedman
Published: May 2012

Community engagement is increasingly becoming an integral part of research. “Community-engaged research” (CEnR) introduces new stakeholders as well as unique challenges to the protection of participants and the integrity of the research process. We—a group of representatives of CTSA-funded institutions and others who share expertise in research ethics and CEnR—have identified gaps in the literature regarding (1) ethical issues unique to CEnR; (2) the particular instructional needs of academic investigators, community research partners, and IRB members; and (3) best practices for teaching research ethics. This paper presents what we know, as well as what we still need to learn, in order to develop quality research ethics educational materials tailored to the full range of stakeholder groups in CEnR.
Negotiating Decisions during Informed Consent for Pediatric Phase I Oncology Trials
Authors: Marshall Patricia A. , Magtanong Ruth V. , Leek Angela C. , Hizlan Sabahat , Yamokoski Amy D. , Kodish Eric D.
Published: May 2012

During informed consent conferences (ICCs) for Phase I trials, oncologists must present complex information while addressing concerns. Research on communication that evolves during ICCs remains largely unexplored. We examined communication during ICCs for pediatric Phase I cancer trials using a stratified random sample from six pediatric cancer centers. A grounded theory approach identified key communication steps and factors influencing the negotiation of decisions for trial participation. Analysis suggests that during ICCs, families, patients, and clinicians exercise choice and control by negotiating micro-decisions in two broad domains: Drug logic and logistics, and administration/scheduling. Micro-decisions unfold in a four-step communication process: (1) introduction of an issue; (2) response; (3) negotiation of the issue; and (4) resolution and decision. Negotiation over smaller micro-decisions is prominent in ICCs and merits further study.
Perceptions of Participating in Longitudinal Trauma Research among Women Exposed to Intimate Partner Abuse
Authors: Hebenstreit Claire L. , DePrince Anne P.
Published: May 2012

We examine motivations for, and costs/benefits of, participation in three interviews across a one-year period among women recently exposed to intimate partner abuse (IPA). Recruited from publicly accessible police reports, women were not informed that the study focused on IPA in recruiting materials or when they scheduled the first interview. Women's ratings on the Response to Research Participation Questionnaire (RRPQ) indicated a positive benefit-to-cost ratio across all three interviews. Negative responses to participation as well as severity of IPA and PTSD symptoms did not predict retention at the next interview. These data demonstrate that studies asking about IPA experiences, even when survivors do not know in advance that IPA will be the focus of study, can be implemented within a stable benefit-to-cost ratio over time.
Criminal Prohibitions on Membership in Terrorist Organizations
Authors: Levanon Liat
Published: May 2012

The article analyzes prohibitions on membership in terrorist organizations and examines their justifiability. It begins by providing a definition of a terrorist organization. It then describes the far-reaching modern prohibitions on membership in terrorist organizations in various jurisdictions. The article goes on to provide a doctrinal analysis of membership offenses. Based on similarities with conspiracy doctrine, membership offenses are analyzed as expansions of attempt law or, in some cases, of complicity doctrines. The justifiability of this expansion is examined. The article introduces a distinction between exclusively terrorist organizations, passive membership of which can be legitimately prohibited under certain conditions, and ancillary and dual-purpose organizations, passive membership of which cannot be legitimately prohibited. Next, the justifiability of prohibiting more active forms of membership in each of these types of organizations is discussed. Last, guidelines for the legislation of appropriate prohibitions are proposed.
Medication Adherence Among Latino and Non-Latino White Children With Asthma
Authors: McQuaid Elizabeth L. , Everhart Robin S. , Seifer Ronald , Kopel Sheryl J. , Mitchell Daphne Koinis , Klein Robert B. , Esteban Cynthia A. , Fritz Gregory K. , Canino Glorisa
Published: May 2012

OBJECTIVE:

Latino children of Caribbean descent remain at high risk for poorly controlled asthma. Controller medications improve asthma control; however, medication adherence remains suboptimal, particularly among minorities. This study assessed socioeconomic, family-based, and parent factors in medication adherence among children with asthma from Rhode Island (RI; Latino and non-Latino white [NLW]) and Puerto Rico.

METHODS:

Data collection occurred as part of a multicenter study of asthma disparities. Our sample included children (ages 7–16) prescribed objectively monitored controller medications (n = 277; 80 island Puerto Rico, 114 RI Latino, 83 RI NLW). Parents completed questionnaires regarding family background and beliefs about medications. Families participated in an interview regarding asthma management. Multilevel analyses (maximum likelihood estimates) accounting for children being nested within site and ethnic group assessed the contribution of social context, family, and parent variables to medication adherence.

RESULTS:

Medication adherence differed by ethnic group (F2, 271 = 7.46, P < .01), with NLW families demonstrating the highest levels of adherence. Multilevel models indicated that parental beliefs about medication necessity and family organization regarding medication use were significant predictors of adherence, even for families below the poverty threshold. With family factors in the model, a substantial improvement in model fit occurred (Akaike Information Criterion change of 103.45).

CONCLUSIONS:

Adherence to controller medications was lower among Latino children in our sample. Targeted interventions that capitalize on existing family resources, emphasize structure, and address parental beliefs about the importance of medications may be of benefit to families from different cultural backgrounds.
Effectiveness and Cost of Immunization Recall at School-Based Health Centers
Authors: Kempe Allison , Barrow Jennifer , Stokley Shannon , Saville Alison , Glazner Judith E. , Suh Christina , Federico Steven , Abrams Lisa , Seewald Laura , Beaty Brenda , Daley Matthew F. , Dickinson L. Miriam
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Effectiveness of recall for immunizations has not been examined in the setting of school-based health centers (SBHCs). We assessed (1) immunization rates achieved with recall among sixth-grade girls (demonstration study); (2) effectiveness of recall among sixth-grade boys (randomized controlled trial [RCT]); and (3) cost of conducting recall in SBHCs.

METHODS:

During October 2008 through March 2009, in 4 Denver public SBHCs, we conducted (1) a demonstration study among 265 girls needing ≥1 recommended adolescent vaccine and (2) an RCT among 264 boys needing vaccines, with half randomized to recall and half receiving usual care. Immunization rates for recommended adolescent vaccines were assessed 6 months after recall. First dose costs were assessed by direct observation and examining invoices.

RESULTS:

At the end of the demonstration study, 77% of girls had received ≥1 vaccine and 45% had received all needed adolescent vaccines. Rates of receipt among those needing each of the vaccines were 68% (160/236) for tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid and acellular pertussis vaccine, 57% (142/248) for quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine, and 59% (149/253) for the first human papillomavirus vaccine. At the end of the RCT, 66% of recalled boys had received ≥1 vaccine and 59% had received all study vaccines, compared with 45% and 36%, respectively, of the control group (P < .001). Cost of conducting recall ranged from $1.12 to $6.87 per recalled child immunized.

CONCLUSIONS:

SBHC-based recall was effective in improving immunization rates for all adolescent vaccines, with effects sizes exceeding those achieved with younger children in practice settings.
Anticoagulant therapy in practice
Authors: Hofgárt Gergely , Vér Csilla , Csiba László
Published: May 2012

Atrial fibrillation is a risk factor for ischemic stroke. To prevent stroke oral anticoagulants can be administered. Old and new types of anticoagulants are available. Nowadays, old type, acenocumarol based anticoagulants are used preferentially in Hungary. Aim: The advantages and the disadvantages of anticoagulants are well known, but anticoagulants are underused in many cases. Method: The authors retrospectively examined how frequent atrial fibrillation was and whether the usage of anticoagulants in practice was in accordance with current guidelines among acute stroke cases admitted to the Department of Neurology, Medical and Health Science Centre of Debrecen University in 2009. Results: Of the 461 acute stroke cases, 96 patients had known and 22 patients had newly discovered atrial fibrillation. Half of the patients did not receive proper anticoagulation. Only 8.4% of them had their INR levels within the therapeutic range. Conclusions: The findings are similar to those reported in other studies. Many factors may contribute to the high proportion of improper use of anticoagulants, and further investigations are needed to determine these factors. In any case, elimination of these factors leading to a failure of anticoagulation may decrease the incidence of stroke. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 732–736.
Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders in Infancy
Authors: Pappas Barbara
Published: May 2012

Certain primary immunodeficiency disorders may become evident during the first year of life. These disorders are characterized by recurrent infections. Prompt diagnosis is necessary, for infants may suffer significant morbidity and mortality. A basic knowledge of host defense mechanisms, including the natural and humoral systems, is essential to the understanding of immunodeficiency disorders.

This article discusses the clinical presentation, evaluation, and treatment strategies available to infants with primary immunodeficiency disorders. Five specific disorders are discussed in detail, and specific treatments are reviewed.
The Effect of a Structured Neonatal Resuscitation Program on Delivery Room Practices
Authors: Ryan C. Anthony , McCarthy Clark Lisa , Malone Aileen , Ahmed Sami
Published: May 2012

Purpose: This study evaluated the introduction of the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association into the delivery room of an Irish maternity hospital.

Design: Prospective, controlled observational study of 51 deliveries before and 51 deliveries following the training of delivery room personnel in the NRP.

Sample: Participants were 33 nurse-midwives and 11 pediatric resident physicians.

Main outcome variable: Evaluation of postdelivery, newborn resuscitation practices.

Results: The introduction of the NRP was associated with significant improvements in delivery room preparation, in the evaluation and management of the newborn infant, and in thermal protection at birth. Although there was a trend to use more free-flow oxygen following the introduction of the NRP, this was not statistically significant. Bag and mask ventilation was also used more frequently following NRP training. However, there were no significant differences in the use of endotracheal intubation, chest compressions, and medications. Fifteen of the 51 infants became hypothermic prior to the introduction of the NRP; none of the infants developed hypothermia in the post-NRP part of the study.
The Emotional Transition to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: deClaire Denise
Published: May 2012

AFTER 20 YEARS AS AN OPERATING ROOM NURSE, I WAS ready for a change. The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was an area of practice that I had always been interested in. The NICU at my hospital had expanded and was willing to train someone with no previous experience, and I was eager to learn. I was prepared to become a novice again, to wrestle with the frustrations and struggles of starting over in a new field. What I was not prepared for was the flood of emotions that I was to experience.
Suctioning Smarter: Answers to Eight Common Questions about Endotracheal Suctioning in Neonates
Authors: Wrightson Della
Published: May 2012

ENDOTRACHEAL SUCTIONING IS important to clear secretions, maintain airway patency, and facilitate oxygenation and ventilation in intubated infants. But suctioning is not a benign procedure. It can cause hypoxia, atelectasis, pneumothorax, infection, tissue damage, and changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and intracranial pressure.1–17Studies have been conducted in both adults and infants to identify the best approach to suctioning.3,6,7,18,19This article uses research findings to address eight common questions about endotracheal suctioning. When suctioning practices are based on research, rather than on tradition, outcomes should improve.
Patterns of Genetic Inheritance
Authors: Reyna Barbara , Pickler Rita
Published: May 2012

Neonatal nurses need to understand the basic patterns of genetic transmission. This article, the first in a series, provides an overview of Mendel’s laws and discusses five types of transmission: single gene inheritance, chromosomal inheritance, multifactorial inheritance, cytoplasmic inheritance, and somatic cell mutations.
Camptomelic Dysplasia: A Case Study
Authors: Soell Julie
Published: May 2012

Camptomelic dysplasia (CMD) is a congenital shortlimb skeletal dysplasia characterized by prenatal bowing of the lower limbs in association with additional anomalies of the tracheobronchial tree or genitourinary tract. Perinatal and early neonatal death from respiratory failure is common. Diagnosis and long-term management of the infant with CMD require a coordinated effort among many specialists. This article presents a general overview of skeletal dysplasias and camptomelic dysplasia. It concludes with a case study illustrating the many problems infants with CMD may have and the complex treatment and follow-up services they require.
Nipple Feeding Preterm Infants: An Individualized, Developmentally Supportive Approach
Authors: Shaker Catherine
Published: May 2012

Many NICU infants present with complex issues that affect the transition to full nipple feeding. At a time when length of stay is critical, this transition can be facilitated by an individualized, developmentally supportive approach. The approach described in this article involves (1) observing the infant for behavioral cues of stability or stress during nippling, as reflected in change in color, state of alertness, breathing, and swallowing; (2) individualizing intervention to help the infant regain and maintain coordination; and (3) facilitating parents’ competence and confidence in feeding their infant. Contingent interventions are used to promote physiologic homeostasis and self-regulation.
Back to Sleep: Is There Room in That Crib for Both AAP Recommendations and Developmentally Supportive Care?
Authors: Lockridge Terrie , Taquino Lauren , Knight Anne
Published: May 2012

This article offers one institution’s approach to implementation of the recommendations for infant sleep positioning as set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics. The guidelines are directed toward healthy infants in the first year of life, a population not always encountered by the neonatal nurse. The guidelines focus on supine sleep position and the minimization of additional bedding, both of which can be challenging when contrasted with accomplishing supportive positioning and the goals of developmentally supportive care for ill or preterm infants. A multidisciplinary task force was formed to consider this challenge. The outcome is an evidence-based policy that is presented as an example for other clinicians. The policy addresses the following major components: sleep position with specific clinical exceptions, the use of bedding materials, play position during awake states, and parent education with preparation for discharge. The article also outlines the process by which the task force plans to implement and evaluate necessary practice changes.