bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutations in the M-Gene Segment Can Substantially Increase Replication Efficiency of NS1 Deletion Influenza A Virus in MDCK Cells
Authors: van Wielink R. , Harmsen M. M. , Martens D. E. , Peeters B. P. H. , Wijffels R. H. , Moormann R. J. M.
Published: September 2012

Influenza viruses unable to express NS1 protein (delNS1) replicate poorly and induce large amounts of interferon (IFN). They are therefore considered candidate viruses for live-attenuated influenza vaccines. Their attenuated replication is generally assumed to result from the inability to counter the antiviral host response, as delNS1 viruses replicate efficiently in Vero cells, which lack IFN expression. In this study, delNS1 virus was parallel passaged on IFN-competent MDCK cells, which resulted in two strains that were able to replicate to high virus titers in MDCK cells due to adaptive mutations especially in the M-gene segment but also in the NP and NS gene segments. Most notable were clustered U-to-C mutations in the M segment of both strains and clustered A-to-G mutations in the NS segment of one strain, which presumably resulted from host cell-mediated RNA editing. The M segment mutations in both strains changed the ratio of M1 to M2 expression, probably by affecting splicing efficiency. In one virus, 2 amino acid substitutions in M1 additionally enhanced virus replication, possibly through changes in the M1 distribution between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Both adapted viruses induced levels of IFN equal to that of the original delNS1 virus. These results show that the increased replication of the adapted viruses is not primarily due to altered IFN induction but rather is related to changes in M1 expression or localization. The mutations identified in this paper may be used to enhance delNS1 virus replication for vaccine production.
Patterns in wireless phone estimation data from a cross-sectional survey: what are the implications for epidemiology?
Authors: Redmayne Mary , Smith Euan , Abramson Michael J
Published: September 2012

Objective

Self-reported recall data are often used in wireless phone epidemiological studies, which in turn are used to indicate relative risk of health outcomes from extended radiofrequency exposure. We sought to explain features commonly observed in wireless phone recall data and to improve analytical procedures.

Setting

Wellington Region, New Zealand.

Participants

Each of the 16 schools selected a year 7 and/or 8 class to participate, providing a representative regional sample based on socioeconomic school ratings, school type and urban/rural balance. There was an 85% participation rate (N=373).

Main outcome measures

Planned: the distribution of participants’ estimated extent of SMS-texting and cordless phone calls, and the extent of rounding to a final zero or five within the full set of recall data and within each order of magnitude. Unplanned: the distribution of the leading digits of these raw data, compared with that of billed data in each order of magnitude.

Results

The nature and extent of number-rounding, and the distribution of data acrosseachorder in recall data indicated a logarithmic (ratio-based) mental process for assigning values. Responses became less specific as the leading-digit increased from 1 to 9, and 69% of responses for weekly texts sent were rounded by participants to a single non-zero digit (eg, 2, 20 and 200).

Conclusions

Adolescents’ estimation of their cellphone use indicated that it was performed on a mental logarithmic scale. This is the first time this phenomenon has been observed in the estimation of recalled, as opposed to observed, numerical quantities. Our findings provide empirical justification for log-transforming data for analysis. We recommend the use of the geometric rather than arithmetic mean when a recalled numerical range is provided. A point of calibration may improve recall.
Carers’ perspectives on the presentation of community-acquired pneumonia and empyema in children: a case series
Authors: Crocker Joanna C , Evans Meirion R , Butler Christopher C , Hood Kerenza , Powell Colin V E
Published: September 2012

Objective

To describe carers’ perceptions of the development and presentation of community-acquired pneumonia or empyema in their children.

Design

Case series.

Setting

Seven hospitals with paediatric inpatient units in South Wales, UK.

Participants

Carers of 79 children aged 6 months to 16 years assessed in hospital between October 2008 and September 2009 with radiographic, community-acquired pneumonia or empyema.

Methods

Carers were recruited in hospital and participated in a structured face-to-face or telephone interview about the history and presenting features of their children's illnesses. Responses to open questions were initially coded very finely and then grouped into common themes. Cases were classified into two age groups: 3 or more years and under 3 years.

Results

The reported median duration of illness from onset until the index hospital presentation was 4 days (IQR 2–9 days). Pain in the torso was reported in 84% of cases aged 3 or more years and was the most common cause for carer concern in this age group. According to carer accounts, clinicians sometimes misjudged the origin of this pain. Almost all carers reported something unusual about the index illness that had particularly concerned them—mostly non-specific physical symptoms and behavioural changes.

Conclusions

Pain in the torso and carer concerns about unusual symptoms in their child may provide valuable additional information in a clinician's assessment of the risk of pneumonia in primary care. Further research is needed to confirm the diagnostic value of these features.
Public perceptions of coronary events risk factors: a discrete choice experiment
Authors: Al Hamarneh Yazid N , Agus Ashley , Campbell Danny , Crealey Grainne E , McElnay James C
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To assess public perceptions of coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factors.

Design

Discrete choice experiment questionnaire.

Setting

Six provincial centres in Northern Ireland.

Participants

1000 adults of the general public in Northern Ireland.

Primary and secondary outcomes

The general public's perception of CHD risk factors. The effect of having risk factor(s) on that perception.

Results

Two multinomial logit models were created. One was a basic model (no heterogeneity permitted), while the other permitted heterogeneity based on respondents’ characteristics. In both models individuals with very high cholesterol were perceived to be at the highest risk of having a coronary event. Respondents who reported having high cholesterol perceived the risk contribution of very high cholesterol to be greater than those who reported having normal cholesterol. Similar findings were observed with blood pressure and smoking. Respondents who were male and older perceived the contribution of age and gender to be lower than respondents who were female and younger.

Conclusions

Respondents with different risk factors perceived such factors differently. These divergent perceptions of CHD risk factors could be a barrier to behavioural change. This brings into focus the need for more tailored health promotion campaigns to tackle CHD.
Collaborative palliative care for advanced heart failure: outcomes and costs from the ‘Better Together’ pilot study
Authors: Pattenden Jill F , Mason Anne R , Lewin R J P
Published: September 2012

Background

Patients with heart failure often receive little supportive or palliative care. ‘Better Together’ was a 2-year pilot study of a palliative care service for patients with advanced congestive heart failure (CHF).

Objective

To determine if the intervention made it more likely that patients would be cared for and die in their place of choice, and to investigate its cost-effectiveness.

Methods

This pragmatic non-randomised pilot evaluation was set in two English primary care trusts (Bradford and Poole). Prospective patient-level data on outcomes and costs were compared with data from a historical control group of clinically comparable patients. Outcomes included death in preferred place of care (available only for the intervention group) and ‘hospital admissions averted’. Costs included medical procedures, inpatient care and the direct cost of providing the intervention.

Results

99 patients were referred. Median survival from referral was 48 days in Bradford and 31 days in Poole. Most patients who died did so in their preferred place of death (Bradford 70%, Poole 77%). An estimated 14 and 18 hospital admissions for heart failure were averted in Bradford and Poole, respectively. The average cost-per-heart failure admission averted was £1529 in Bradford, but the intervention was cost saving in Poole. However, there was considerable uncertainty around these cost-effectiveness estimates.

Conclusions

This pilot study provides tentative evidence that a collaborative home-based palliative care service for patients with advanced CHF may increase the likelihood of death in place of choice and reduce inpatient admissions. These findings require confirmation using a more robust methodological framework.
Partial brachial plexus paresis in three calves
Authors: Rüegsegger F. , Steffen F. , Nuss K. A.
Published: September 2012

Partial brachial plexus paresis was diagnosed in three calves with unilateral functional lameness in a forelimb based on clinical and neurologic examinations. Clinical signs of radial nerve paresis were the main presenting problems. Electromyography was used to identify the affected nerves with the calves under general anaesthesia. Abnormal spontaneous activity of denervated muscles showed that the radial, musculocutaneous, median and ulnar nerves were compromised. The calves were treated medically, using splint bandages, and with physiotherapy. All calves regained function of the affected legs and normal weight bearing.
R&D COLLABORATION AND NANOTECHNOLOGY — AN OPPORTUNITY FOR TRADITIONAL INDUSTRIES
Authors: NIKULAINEN TUOMO
Published: September 2012

This paper focuses on assessing the modes of research and development (R&D) collaboration and technological lifecycles in the Finnish pulp and paper industry. This traditional manufacturing industry is currently undergoing changes due to market and technological developments. By discussing industrial and technological lifecycles, this paper aims to establish the extent to which these changes affect the R&D collaboration networks in the industry. The paper also provides insight regarding how the incumbents in this industry change their innovation activities in the face of a new science-based technology — nanotechnology — which is argued to have a significant impact on innovative activities in many traditional and high-tech industries. The results suggest that the Finnish pulp and paper industry is adapting to the changing innovation environment by increasing internal R&D investment and by extending and diversifying its R&D collaboration networks. The results also indicate that nanotechnology is seen as a potential new source of business for the pulp and paper industry but that investment will be required, particularly in absorptive capacity, to take advantage of these new technologies.
Dual-porosity fractured Miocene syn-rift dolomite reservoir in the Issaran Field (Gulf of Suez, Egypt): a case history of the zonal isolation of highly fractured water carrier bed
Authors: Saoudi Ati , Moustafa Adel R. , Farag Ramadan I. , Omara Maher M. , Wally Hossam , Fouad Ahmed , Tag Amr , Ragab Ramy Z.
Published: September 2012

We describe a fractured dolomite reservoir in the Miocene syn-rift succession of the Gulf of Suez, and the impact of fractures on the increase in the water cut during production from this reservoir and the measures taken to overcome this problem. The Issaran Field includes two dolomite reservoirs (the Upper and Lower Dolomite). The Lower Dolomite reservoir has a highly fractured zone (HFZ) corresponding to a brittle layer that extends down-dip below the highest know water level, allowing the flow of water from the water-wet area to other parts of the reservoir and, thus, causing an increase in the water cut in the wells. Setting an inflatable packer above the HFZ in open holes, perforation above its level in cased holes and reaching total depth of new wells above the HFZ are recommended to decrease the water cut. Accidental hydraulic fractures might develop by steam injection at pressures exceeding rock fracture pressure. These fractures and critically stressed natural fractures allow injected steam to pass laterally through the reservoir along interconnected natural fractures.
Intrarenal localization of the plasma membrane ATP channel pannexin1
Authors: Hanner Fiona , Lam Lisa , Nguyen Mien T. X. , Yu Alan , Peti-Peterdi János
Published: September 2012

In the renal tubules, ATP released from epithelial cells stimulates purinergic receptors, regulating salt and water reabsorption. However, the mechanisms by which ATP is released into the tubular lumen are multifaceted. Pannexin1 (Panx1) is a newly identified. ubiquitously expressed protein that forms connexin-like channels in the plasma membrane, which have been demonstrated to function as a mechanosensitive ATP conduit. Here, we report on the localization of Panx1 in the mouse kidney. Using immunofluorescence, strong Panx1 expression was observed in renal tubules, including proximal tubules, thin descending limbs, and collecting ducts, along their apical cell membranes. In the renal vasculature, Panx1 expression was localized to vascular smooth muscle cells in renal arteries, including the afferent and efferent arterioles. Additionally, we tested whether Panx1 channels expressed in renal epithelial cells facilitate luminal ATP release by measuring the ATP content of urine samples freshly collected from wild-type and Panx1−/− mice. Urinary ATP levels were reduced by 30% in Panx1−/− compared with wild-type mice. These results suggest that Panx1 channels in the kidney may regulate ATP release and via purinergic signaling may participate in the control of renal epithelial fluid and electrolyte transport and vascular functions.
Inheritance of Evolved Glyphosate Resistance in a North Carolina Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) Biotype
Authors: Chandi Aman , Milla-Lewis Susana R. , Giacomini Darci , Westra Philip , Preston Christopher , Jordan David L. , York Alan C. , Burton James D. , Whitaker Jared R.
Published: September 2012

Inheritance of glyphosate resistance in a Palmer amaranth biotype from North Carolina was studied. Glyphosate rates for 50% survival of glyphosate-resistant (GR) and glyphosate-susceptible (GS) biotypes were 1288 and 58 g ha−1, respectively. These values for F1 progenies obtained from reciprocal crosses (GR×GSandGS×GRwere 794 and 501 g ha−1, respectively. Dose response of F1 progenies indicated that resistance was not fully dominant over susceptibility. Lack of significant differences between dose responses for reciprocal F1 families suggested that genetic control of glyphosate resistance was governed by nuclear genome. Analysis of F1 backcross (BC1F1) families showed that 10 and 8 BC1F1 families out of 15 fitted monogenic inheritance at 2000 and 3000 g ha−1glyphosate, respectively. These results indicate that inheritance of glyphosate resistance in this biotype is incompletely dominant, nuclear inherited, and might not be consistent with a single gene mechanism of inheritance. Relative 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) copy number varied from 22 to 63 across 10 individuals from resistant biotype. This suggested that variableEPSPScopy number in the parents might be influential in determining if inheritance of glyphosate resistance is monogenic or polygenic in this biotype.
Ameliorative Effects of Scopoletin fromCrossostephium chinensisagainst Inflammation Pain and Its Mechanisms in Mice
Authors: Chang Tien-Ning , Deng Jeng-Shyan , Chang Yi-Chih , Lee Chao-Ying , Jung-Chun Liao , Lee Min-Min , Peng Wen Huang , Huang Shyh-Shyun , Huang Guan-Jhong
Published: September 2012

Scopoletin exists in nature as an anti-oxidant, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities reagent. In this study, we have investigated the analgesic effects of the scopoletin using the models of acetic acid-induced writhing response and the formalin test, the anti-inflammatory effects of scopoletin using model ofλ-carrageenan (Carr)-induced paw edema. The treatment of ICR mice with scopoletin inhibited the numbers of writhing response and the formalin-induced pain in the late phase. This study demonstrated that the administration of scopoletin resulted in the reduction of Carr-induced mice edema, and it increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) after Carr injection. We also demonstrated scopoletin significantly attenuated the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the edema paw after Carr injection. Scopoletin decreased the NO, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels on serum after Carr injection. Scopoletin decreased Carr-induced inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expressions in the edema paw. These anti-inflammatory mechanisms of scopoletin might be related to the decrease in the level of MDAviaincreasing the activities of SOD, CAT, and GPx in the edema paw. Also, scopoletin could affect the production of NO, TNF-α, and PGE2, and therefore affect the anti-inflammatory effects.
Finite Element Solutions for the Space Fractional Diffusion Equation with a Nonlinear Source Term
Authors: Choi Y. J. , Chung S. K.
Published: September 2012

We consider finite element Galerkin solutions for the space fractional diffusion equation with a nonlinear source term. Existence, stability, and order of convergence of approximate solutions for the backward Euler fully discrete scheme have been discussed as well as for the semidiscrete scheme. The analytical convergent orders are obtained as , where is a constant depending on the order of fractional derivative. Numerical computations are presented, which confirm the theoretical results when the equation has a linear source term. When the equation has a nonlinear source term, numerical results show that the diffusivity depends on the order of fractional derivative as we expect.
Approximate Iteration Algorithm with Error Estimate for Fixed Point of Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Su Yongfu
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this article is to present a general viscosity iteration process {xn} which defined by xn + 1 = (I − αnA)Txn + βnγf(xn)+(αn − βn)xn and to study the convergence of {xn}, where T is a nonexpansive mapping and A is a strongly positive linear operator, if {αn}, {βn} satisfy appropriate conditions, then iteration sequence {xn} converges strongly to the unique solution x* ∈ f(T) of variational inequality 〈(A − γf)x*, x − x*〉 ≥ 0, for all x ∈ f(T). Meanwhile, a approximate iteration algorithm is presented which is used to calculate the fixed point of nonexpansive mapping and solution of variational inequality, the error estimate is also given. The results presented in this paper extend, generalize, and improve the results of Xu, G. Marino and Xu and some others.
Indicators of Achievement in EFL Classes at a Taiwanese University
Authors: Kelsen Brent Allan , Liang Hsin-yi
Published: September 2012

Understanding the factors that contribute to student success is crucial for educators. This study estimated the indicators of success in the context of student achievement in university EFL courses in Taiwan. Data was collected from two classes of sophomore students and various student assessment aspects served as dependent variables: overall final grade, final exam score, oral test performance, and scores received on the listening, reading, and writing sections of the final exam. Explanatory variables included: years of English study, gender, part-time work, total hours studying English, participation in English-taught program, English language aptitude, first language ability, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, language anxiety, attendance, reading English for pleasure, and socioeconomic status. Pearson product-moment correlations were calculated and stepwise multiple regression analyses identified selections of variables that explained the dependent variables. Multiple regressions using the selected variables suggested that hours spent studying English, participation in the English taught program, first language ability, attendance and reading for pleasure were the most significant indicators of achievement. All models provided statistically significant moderate to strong explanatory power. Finally, this paper offers pedagogical considerations based on the results, as well as suggestions for future research.
Comparative Genome Sequence Analysis Reveals the Extent of Diversity and Conservation for Glycan-Associated Proteins inBurkholderiaspp.
Authors: Ong Hui San , Mohamed Rahmah , Firdaus-Raih Mohd
Published: September 2012

Members of theBurkholderiafamily occupy diverse ecological niches. In pathogenic family members, glycan-associated proteins are often linked to functions that include virulence, protein conformation maintenance, surface recognition, cell adhesion, and immune system evasion. Comparative analysis of availableBurkholderiagenomes has revealed a core set of 178 glycan-associated proteins shared by allBurkholderiaof which 68 are homologous to known essential genes. The genome sequence comparisons revealed insights into species-specific gene acquisitions through gene transfers, identified an S-layer protein, and proposed that significantly reactive surface proteins are associated to sugar moieties as a potential means to circumvent host defense mechanisms. The comparative analysis using a curated database of search queries enabled us to gain insights into the extent of conservation and diversity, as well as the possible virulence-associated roles of glycan-associated proteins in members of theBurkholderiaspp. The curated list of glycan-associated proteins used can also be directed to screen other genomes for glycan-associated homologs.
A PrioriAssessment of Algebraic Flame Surface Density Models in the Context of Large Eddy Simulation for Nonunity Lewis Number Flames in the Thin Reaction Zones Regime
Authors: Katragadda Mohit , Chakraborty Nilanjan , Cant R. S.
Published: September 2012

The performance of algebraic flame surface density (FSD) models has been assessed for flames with nonunity Lewis number (Le) in the thin reaction zones regime, using a direct numerical simulation (DNS) database of freely propagating turbulent premixed flames with Le ranging from 0.34 to 1.2. The focus is on algebraic FSD models based on a power-law approach, and the effects of Lewis number on the fractal dimensionDand inner cut-off scaleηihave been studied in detail. It has been found thatDis strongly affected by Lewis number and increases significantly with decreasing Le. By contrast,ηiremains close to the laminar flame thermal thickness for all values of Le considered here. A parameterisation ofDis proposed such that the effects of Lewis number are explicitly accounted for. The new parameterisation is used to propose a new algebraic model for FSD. The performance of the new model is assessed with respect to results for the generalised FSD obtained from explicitly LES-filtered DNS data. It has been found that the performance of the most existing models deteriorates with decreasing Lewis number, while the newly proposed model is found to perform as well or better than the most existing algebraic models for FSD.
Herbal Products: Benefits, Limits, and Applications in Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Del Prete Anna , Scalera Antonella , Iadevaia Maddalena Diana , Miranda Agnese , Zulli Claudio , Gaeta Laura , Tuccillo Concetta , Federico Alessandro , Loguercio Carmelina
Published: September 2012

Complementary and alternative medicine soughts and encompasses a wide range of approaches; its use begun in ancient China at the time of Xia dynasty and in India during the Vedic period, but thanks to its long-lasting curative effect, easy availability, natural way of healing, and poor side-effects it is gaining importance throughout the world in clinical practice. We conducted a review describing the effects and the limits of using herbal products in chronic liver disease, focusing our attention on those most known, such as quercetin or curcumin. We tried to describe their pharmacokinetics, biological properties, and their beneficial effects (as antioxidant role) in metabolic, alcoholic, and viral hepatitis (considering that oxidative stress is the common pathway of chronic liver diseases of different etiology). The main limit of applicability of CAM comes from the lacking of randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials giving a real proof of efficacy of those products, so that anecdotal success and personal experience are frequently the driving force for acceptance of CAM in the population.
Pullulanase: Role in Starch Hydrolysis and Potential Industrial Applications
Authors: Hii Siew Ling , Tan Joo Shun , Ling Tau Chuan , Ariff Arbakariya Bin
Published: September 2012

The use of pullulanase (EC 3.2.1.41) has recently been the subject of increased applications in starch-based industries especially those aimed for glucose production. Pullulanase, an important debranching enzyme, has been widely utilised to hydrolyse theα-1,6 glucosidic linkages in starch, amylopectin, pullulan, and related oligosaccharides, which enables a complete and efficient conversion of the branched polysaccharides into small fermentable sugars during saccharification process. The industrial manufacturing of glucose involves two successive enzymatic steps: liquefaction, carried out after gelatinisation by the action ofα-amylase; saccharification, which results in further transformation of maltodextrins into glucose. During saccharification process, pullulanase has been used to increase the final glucose concentration with reduced amount of glucoamylase. Therefore, the reversion reaction that involves resynthesis of saccharides from glucose molecules is prevented. To date, five groups of pullulanase enzymes have been reported, that is, (i) pullulanase type I, (ii) amylopullulanase, (iii) neopullulanase, (iv) isopullulanase, and (v) pullulan hydrolase type III. The current paper extensively reviews each category of pullulanase, properties of pullulanase, merits of applying pullulanase during starch bioprocessing, current genetic engineering works related to pullulanase genes, and possible industrial applications of pullulanase.
A Framework for Adaptive Game Presenters with Emotions and Social Comments
Authors: Karouzaki Effie , Savidis Anthony
Published: September 2012

More and more games today try to adjust their gameplay to fit individual players; however, little work has been carried out in the same direction towards game presenter characters. Game commentary should take into account players' personalities along with game progress in order to achieve social player-adapted comment delivery that boosts the overall gameplay, engages the players, and stimulates the audience. In our work, we discuss a framework for implementing artificial game presenter characters that are based on game actions and players' social profiles in order to deliver knowledgeable, socially oriented comments. Moreover, the presented framework supports emotional facial expressions for the presenters, allowing them to convey their emotions and thus be more expressive than the majority of the commentary systems today. We prove our concept by developing a presenter character for multiplayer tabletop board games which we further put under usability evaluation with 9 players. The results showed that game sessions with presenter characters are preferred over the plain version of the game and that the majority of the players enjoy personalized social-oriented comments expressed via multimedia and emotions.
Cell-Cycle Control in Urothelial Carcinoma: Large-scale Tissue Array Analysis of Tumor Tissue from Maine and Vermont
Authors: Lenz Petra , Pfeiffer Ruth , Baris Dalsu , Schned Alan R. , Takikita Mikiko , Poscablo M. Cristina , Schwenn Molly , Johnson Alison , Jones Michael , Kida Masatoshi , Cantor Kenneth P. , Rothman Nathaniel , Silverman Debra T. , Hewitt Stephen M. , Moore Lee E.
Published: September 2012

Background: Cell-cycle proteins are important predictive markers in urothelial carcinoma but may also exhibit exposure-specific heterogeneity.

Methods: Tumor tissue from 491 bladder cancer cases enrolled in the Maine and Vermont component of the New England Bladder Cancer Study was assembled as tissue microarrays and examined for aberrant expression of p53, p63, p16, cyclin D1, Rb, and Ki-67. The association between expression and histopathology, demographics, and cigarette smoking was examined using χ2 tests, multivariable Poisson, and multinomial regression models.

Results: We found that overexpression of p53 and Ki-67 was associated with high-stage/grade tumors [relative risk (RR), 1.26; Ptrend = 0.003; and RR, 3.21; Ptrend < 0.0001, respectively], whereas expression of p63 and p16 was decreased in high-stage/grade tumors (RR, 0.52; Ptrend < 0.0001; and RR, 0.88; Ptrend = 0.04, respectively). No significant aberrations of cell-cycle proteins were identified using various smoking variables and multiple statistical models.

Conclusion: The results of this population-based study of histologically confirmed urothelial carcinomas show significant aberration of cell-cycle proteins p53, p63, p16, and Ki-67, but not Rb or cyclin D1. p53 showed the most significant heterogeneity with respect to tumor stage and grade, especially when stratified for different staining intensities using novel digital image analysis techniques. Our findings do not support that smoking modifies expression of cell-cycle proteins.

Impact: Our study shows significant heterogeneity in the expression of key cell-cycle proteins that are associated with disease progression in bladder cancer. Further studies may lead to the identification of biomarkers and their multiplexed interactions as useful prognostic and therapeutic targets. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(9); 1555–64. ©2012 AACR.
Mammographic Screening and Breast Cancer Mortality: A Case–Control Study and Meta-analysis
Authors: Nickson Carolyn , Mason Kate E. , English Dallas R. , Kavanagh Anne M.
Published: September 2012

Background: Observational studies are necessary to assess the impact of population screening on breast cancer mortality. While some ecological studies have notably found little or no association, case–control studies consistently show strong inverse associations, but they are sometimes ignored, perhaps due to theoretical biases arising from the study design. We conducted a case–control study of breast cancer deaths in Western Australia to evaluate the effect of participation in the BreastScreen Australia program, paying particular attention to potential sources of bias, and undertook an updated meta-analysis of case–control studies.

Methods: Our study included 427 cases (women who died from breast cancer), each matched to up to 10 controls. We estimated the association between screening participation and breast cancer mortality, quantifying the effect of potential sources of bias on our findings, including selection bias, information bias, and confounding. We also conducted a meta-analysis of published case–control studies.

Results: The OR for participation in the Western Australian BreastScreen program in relation to death from breast cancer was 0.48 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.38–0.59; P < 0.001]. We were unable to identify biases that could negate this finding: sensitivity analyses generated ORs from 0.45 to 0.52. Our meta-analysis yielded an OR of 0.51 (95% CI, 0.46–0.55).

Conclusions: Our findings suggest an average 49% reduction in breast cancer mortality for women who are screened. In practice, theoretical biases have little effect on estimates from case–control studies.

Impact: Case–control studies, such as ours, provide robust and consistent evidence that screening benefits women who choose to be screened. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(9); 1479–88. ©2012 AACR.
Direct Comparison of HPV16 Serological Assays Used to Define HPV-Naïve Women in HPV Vaccine Trials
Authors: Safaeian Mahboobeh , Ghosh Arpita , Porras Carolina , Lin Shih-Wen , Rodriguez Ana Cecilia , Schiffman Mark , Wacholder Sholom , Kemp Troy , Gonzalez Paula , Wentzensen Nicolas , Esser Mark , Meuree Ariane , Matys Katie , Quint Wim , van Doorn Leen-Jan , Sherman Mark E. , Herrero Rolando , Pinto Ligia A. , Hildesheim Allan
Published: September 2012

Background: Two HPV serological assays, the competitive Luminex immunoassay (cLIA), and an enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) against HPV16 have been used to define HPV-naïve subcohorts within large HPV vaccination trials. Some of the variation in estimated vaccine efficacies may be due to the differences in these assays used to define the HPV-naïve subgroups. To guide the interpretation of published results, we compared these assays.

Methods: Replicate enrollment sera from a stratified sample of 388 unvaccinated women from the control arm of the Costa Rica HPV 16/18 Vaccine Trial were measured for antibodies against HPV16 using cLIA and ELISA. Agreement between the assays was estimated using standard and alternative assay cutoffs.

Results: Using laboratory-determined seropositivity cutoffs, sampling-adjusted HPV16 seropositivity was 24.8% by ELISA and 7.2% by cLIA. Comparing cLIA and ELISA antibody levels based on the standard cutoffs, overall agreement was 53% (positive-agreement = 49%). The poor agreement was mainly driven by the higher sensitivity of the ELISA than cLIA, resulting in 30% of the ELISA-positive sample that were cLIA-negative (none of the ELISA-negatives were cLIA-positive). Increasing ELISA cutoff to 54 ELISA units (EU)/mL (the level which maximized agreement with cLIA; ELISA standard cutoff is 8 EU/mL) resulted in higher agreement (overall agreement = 91%; positive agreement = 78%).

Conclusions: ELISA and cLIA are different from each other based on the laboratory-determined cutoff. Increasing ELISA cutoff increased agreement with cLIA, which could facilitate comparisons among studies that use different assays.

Impact: Keeping cLIA at the laboratory-determined cutoff but altering ELISA cutoff for seropositivity might facilitate vaccine efficacy comparisons in the naïve cohorts defined by cLIA. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(9); 1547–54. ©2012 AACR.
No Association between Antibodies to Sexually Transmitted Infections and Colorectal Hyperplastic Polyps in Men: Minnesota Cancer Prevention Research Unit Polyp Study
Authors: Burnett-Hartman Andrea N. , Newcomb Polly A. , Schwartz Stephen M. , Bostick Roberd M. , Pawlita Michael , Waterboer Tim , Potter John D.
Published: September 2012

Background: Oncogenic human papillomaviruses (HPV) are sexually transmitted and linked to several epithelial malignancies, but an association between HPV and colorectal neoplasia is not established. Previously, we reported a three-fold increase in the odds of colorectal hyperplastic polyps associated with oncogenic HPV seropositivity in men but detected no HPV DNA in colorectal tissues from these same men.

Methods: To test the reproducibility of our prior HPV antibody results and to explore the hypothesis that colorectal hyperplastic polyps may be associated with sexual behavior in men, we conducted a case–control study of hyperplastic polyps and antibodies to eight oncogenic HPV types (including 16 and 18), Herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2), and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Study participants were men, ages 30–74 years, enrolled in the Minnesota Cancer Prevention Research Unit Polyp Study who had an index colonoscopy from 1991 to 1994, and received a diagnosis of hyperplastic polyps (n = 97) or were polyp-free (n = 184). Plasma was assessed for antibodies to the eight oncogenic HPV types, HSV-2, and HCV using a bead-based multiplex assay.

Results: The adjusted ORs for the association between hyperplastic polyps and seropositivity to oncogenic HPV (all eight types combined) was 0.84 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.44–1.58; for HSV-2, OR, 0.98, 95% CI, 0.48–1.99; and for HCV, OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.11–3.26].

Conclusions: Our study suggested no association between colorectal hyperplastic polyps and antibodies to specific sexually transmitted infections (STI) in men.

Impact: Factors associated with STIs are unlikely to play a role in the etiology of colorectal hyperplastic polyps in men. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(9); 1599–601. ©2012 AACR.
Shear response of woven fabric composites under meso-level uncertainties
Authors: Komeili Mojtaba , Milani Abbas S
Published: September 2012

Experimental results in the literature indicate notable non-repeatabilities during mechanical testing of woven fabrics, even under the same loading conditions, which may be linked to the presence of defects and uncertainties at meso or micro levels in yarns. Sources of such uncertainties can include both yarn dimensional tolerances and variations in the fiber/matrix material properties. The aim of this article is to conduct a systematic sensitivity analysis on the meso-level uncertainty factors in a typical woven fabric and identify the most significant factors and their interactions under a trellising mode. A finite element model capable of capturing behavior of dry yarns, along with a two-level full-factorial design approach has been employed. Factorial designs are split into two categories of the geometrical and material factors. It is shown how the obtained range of variations from the above statistical designs may be used to capture non-repeatability in some trellising tests.
Mechanical properties of styrene butadiene rubber-/ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber-based conductive blends
Authors: Al-Gahtany SA
Published: September 2012

The mechanical properties of styrene butadiene rubber (SBR)/ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) conductive blends prepared by conventional mixed method were studied as a function of both blend ratio and high-abrasion furnace (HAF) carbon black (CB) contents. All measured mechanical characteristics, such as Young’s modulus, strain at break and stress at break, exhibit a transition at percolation threshold ( φc), which was found to be dependent on the SBR/EPDM blend ratio. From the dependence of the electrical conductivity of SBR, EPDM and their blends filled with HAF CB on the volume portion of the filler, the percolation concentration ( φc) was determined to be at the inflexion point φi of the dependency. The elongation at break of the investigated composites was succeeded to connect to the percolation concentration by Novak et al. model and an empirical formula suggested by us and showed reasonable results.
Validated Assessment Tools for Pediatric Airway Endoscopy Simulation
Authors: Jabbour Noel , Reihsen Troy , Payne Nathaniel R. , Finkelstein Marsha , Sweet Robert M. , Sidman James D.
Published: September 2012

Objective

To determine the interrater reliability and construct validity of 3 separate assessment tools for assessing trainee skills in pediatric airway endoscopy simulation.

Design

An Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) was developed in which examinees were asked to name and assemble the airway foreign body instruments and retrieve a foreign body from an infant airway mannequin. Each examinee’s performance was assessed in a blinded fashion by 3 pediatric otolaryngology faculty at separate residency programs using 3 assessment tools: (1) objective quantifiable measures list (eg, assists needed, forceps openings, foreign body drops), (2) 15‐point OSATS checklist, and (3) Global Rating Index for Technical Skills (GRITS).

Setting

Otolaryngology residency program.

Subjects

Examinees (medical students, n = 3; otolaryngology residents, n = 17; pediatric otolaryngology faculty, n = 3) and raters (n = 3).

Main Outcome Measures

Interrater reliability and construct validity.

Results

Anonymized split‐screen videos simultaneously capturing each examinee’s instrument handling and the endoscopic videos were created for all 23 examinees. Nineteen videos were chosen for review by 3 raters. The interrater reliability as measured by the intraclass correlation for objective quantifiable measures ranged from 0.46 to 0.98. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.95 for the 15‐point OSATS checklist and 0.95 for the GRITS; both showed a high degree of construct validity with scores correlating with previous experience.

Conclusion

Assessment tools for skills assessments must have high interrater reliability and construct validity. When assessing trainee skills in pediatric airway foreign body scenarios, the 15‐point OSATS checklist developed by this group or the GRITS meets these criteria.
Making sense of Israeli politics today
Authors: Greenstein Ran
Published: September 2012

This review essay examines recent studies of Israeli society and politics, with a focus on questions of identity, conflict and political boundaries. It looks at different scholarly attempts to address these issues, and reflects on their relevance for broader theoretical paradigms. It concludes by asserting the need for an approach that would combine a focus on culture and identity with an analysis of legal and material realities. This can be done effectively only by including the perspectives of Palestinians (citizens and subjects alike) as an essential part of the analysis.
Three takes on Islamophobia
Authors: Kayaoğlu Turan
Published: September 2012

These books explore new territories in the scholarly debate on Islamophobia. Each offers a slightly different understanding of the term. However, neither offers a definition and typology that can help scholars to utilize the term ‘Islamophobia’ as a variable in theorizing its causes and consequences. It remains unclear how one can empirically identify and measure the variation of Islamophobia across societies and over time in order to suggest policies to combat it.
A systematic review on the pros and cons of using a pushrim-activated power-assisted wheelchair
Authors: Kloosterman Marieke GM , Snoek Govert J , van der Woude Lucas HV , Buurke Jaap H , Rietman Johan S
Published: September 2012

Objective:

To determine the (dis)advantages of transition to a power-assisted wheelchair, and derive the clinical implications for its use or prescription.

Data sources:

Relevant articles published prior to May 2012 were identified using PubMed, Cochrane Library, REHABDATA, CIRRIE and CINAHL databases.

Review methods:

Clinical or (randomized) controlled trials, published in a peer-reviewed journal, comparing power-assisted wheelchair use and hand-rim or powered wheelchair use were eligible. Data quality and validity were assessed by two reviewers independently using the Checklist for Measuring Quality developed by Downs and Black.

Results:

A systematic search yielded 15 cross-over trails with repeated measurement design and one qualitative interview. Methodological quality scored between 9 and 15 points out of the maximum score of 32. Ten studies measuring body function and structure reported reduced strain on the arm and cardiovascular system during power-assisted propulsion compared to hand-rim propulsion. Twelve studies measuring activities and social participation reported precision tasks easier to perform with a hand-rim wheelchair and tasks which require more torque were easier with a power-assisted wheelchair. Social participation was not altered significantly by the use of a hand-rim, powered or power-assisted wheelchair.

Conclusion:

Power-assisted propulsion might be beneficial for subjects in whom independent hand-rim wheelchair propulsion is endangered by arm injury, insufficient arm strength or low cardiopulmonary reserves. Also, subjects who have difficulty propelling a wheelchair in a challenging environment can benefit from power-assisted wheelchair use. Caution is warranted for the additional width and weight in relation to the usual mode of transportation and access to the home environment.
Introduction: Weimar social theory
Authors: Harrington Austin , Roberts David
Published: September 2012

The collapse of the Weimar Republic remains central to the history of the 20th century and to contemporary debates on 'classical modernity' and its Europe-wide crisis in the wake of the First World War. The present issue of Thesis Eleven focuses on three dimensions of the Weimar crisis: the experience of fundamental societal crisis and closure and its diagnostic power in relation to the rise of fascist movements; the cognitive and normative resources that sought to work against this crisis-ridden sense of closure; and third, the degree to which these counter tendencies anticipate postmodern interrogations of the premises of classical modernity.
A new technology for recycling solder from waste printed circuit boards using ionic liquid
Authors: Zhu Ping , Chen Yan , Wang Liang you , Zhou Ming
Published: September 2012

Waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs) contain lots of valuable resources together with plenty of hazardous materials, which are considered both an attractive secondary resource and an environmental contaminant. In this study, a new technology for the recovery of solder from WPCBs using an ionic liquid of 1-ethyl-3-methylimizadolium tetrafluoroborate ([EMIM+][BF4−]) as a heating medium was investigated. Experimental results indicate that the separation of solder from WPCBs is complete when WPCBs are heated at 240°C and [EMIM+][BF4−] is stirred at 150 rpm for 10 min. By observing the cross sections of WPCBs before and after treatment with the ionic liquid, it has been found that there is a initial delaminating phenomenon for WPCBs, which implies that [EMIM+][BF4−] can dissolve bromine epoxy resins of WPCBs to some extent. This clean and non-polluting technology offers a new way of recycling valuable materials from WPCBs and prevents the environmental pollution by WPCBs effectively.
Storytelling
Authors: Chen Katherine K.
Published: September 2012

Using observations, interviews, and archival research of an organization that coordinates the annual Burning Man event, I argue that storytelling is a mechanism by which stakeholders can demand accountability to their needs for recognition and voice. I identify particular frames, or perspectives and guides to action, articulated in members’ stories. Deploying a personalistic frame, storytellers recounted individuals’ contributions toward a collective endeavor. Such storytelling commemorated efforts overlooked by official accounts and fostered bonds among members. Other storytellers identified problems and organizing possibilities for consideration under the civic society or anarchist frames. By familiarizing organizations with members’ perspectives and interests, stories facilitate organizational learning that can better serve stakeholders’ interests. Additional research could explore whether (1) consistent face-to-face relations (2) within a bounded setting, such as an organization, and (3) practices that encourage participation in organizing decisions and activities are necessary conditions under which storytelling can enable accountability to members’ interests.
Making sense of autism: Progressive engagement with science among parents of young, recently diagnosed autistic children
Authors: Feinstein Noah Weeth
Published: September 2012

This exploratory study examines the significance of science to parents whose children were recently diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. It asks: (1) In what manner did science emerge in parents’ concerns and resources as they attempted to understand and advocate for their children? (2) Did some parents engage with science in a qualitatively deeper or more intense manner? Using longitudinal data from interviews and a novel data collection strategy called engagement mapping, it shows that parents asked questions and used resources that were strongly associated with science, but these were vastly outnumbered by “near-science” concerns and resources that mingled meanings from science and daily life. Several parents in the study wove together concerns and resources in an iterative pattern referred to here as progressive engagement with science.