bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monotone Iterative Technique for Fractional Evolution Equations in Banach Spaces
Authors: Mu Jia
Published: September 2011

We investigate the initial value problem for a class of fractional
evolution equations in a Banach space. Under some monotone conditions and noncompactness
measure conditions of the nonlinearity, the well‐known monotone iterative technique is then
extended for fractional evolution equations which provides computable monotone sequences
that converge to the extremal solutions in a sector generated by upper and lower solutions. An
example to illustrate the applications of the main results is given.
A Brief Review on theIn SituSynthesis of Boron-Doped Diamond Thin Films
Authors: Srikanth Vadali V. S. S. , Sampath Kumar P. , Kumar Vijay Bhooshan
Published: September 2011

Diamond thin films are well known for their unsurpassed physical and chemical properties. In the recent past, research interests in the synthesis of conductive diamond thin films, especially the boron-doped diamond (BDD) thin films, have risen up to cater to the requirements of electronic, biosensoric, and electrochemical applications. BDD thin films are obtained by substituting some of thesp3hybridized carbon atoms in the diamond lattice with boron atoms. Depending on diamond thin film synthesis conditions, boron doping routes, and further processing steps (if any), different types of BDD diamond thin films with application-specific properties can be obtained. This paper will review several important advances in the synthesis of boron-doped diamond thin films, especially those synthesized via gas phase manipulation.
Dual AAV/IL-10 Plus STAT3 Anti-Inflammatory Gene Delivery Lowers Atherosclerosis in LDLR KO Mice, but without Increased Benefit
Authors: Cao Maohua , Khan Junaid A. , Kang Bum-Yong , Mehta Jawahar L. , Hermonat Paul L.
Published: September 2011

Both IL-10 and STAT3 are in the same signal transduction pathway, with IL-10-bound IL10 receptor (R) acting through STAT3 for anti-inflammatory effect. To investigate possible therapeutic synergism, we delivered both full-length wild-type human (h) STAT3 and hIL-10 genes by separate adenoassociated virus type 8 (AAV8) tail vein injection into LDLR KO on HCD. Compared to control Neo gene-treated animals, individual hSTAT3 and hIL-10 delivery resulted in significant reduction in atherogenesis, as determined by larger aortic lumen size, thinner aortic wall thickness, and lower blood velocity (all statistically significant). However, dual hSTAT3/hIL-10 delivery offered no improvement in therapeutic effect. Plasma cholesterol levels in dual hSTAT3/hIL-10-treated animals were statistically higher compared to hIL-10 alone. While no advantage was seen in this case, we consider that the dual gene approach has intrinsic merit, but properly chosen partnered genes must be used.
All-Optical Reversible Logic Gates with Optically Controlled Bacteriorhodopsin Protein-Coated Microresonators
Authors: Roy Sukhdev , Sethi Purnima , Topolancik Juraj , Vollmer Frank
Published: September 2011

We present designs of all-optical reversible gates, namely, Feynman, Toffoli, Peres, and Feynman double gates, with optically controlled microresonators. To demonstrate the applicability, a bacteriorhodopsin protein-coated silica microcavity in contact between two tapered single-mode fibers has been used as an all-optical switch. Low-power control signals (<200 μW) at 532 nm and at 405 nm control the conformational states of the protein to switch a near infrared signal laser beam at 1310 or 1550 nm. This configuration has been used as a template to design four-port tunable resonant coupler logic gates. The proposed designs are general and can be implemented in both fiber-optic and integrated-optic formats and with any other coated photosensitive material. Advantages of directed logic, high Q-factor, tunability, compactness, low-power control signals, high fan-out, and flexibility of cascading switches in 2D/3D architectures to form circuits make the designs promising for practical applications.
Operative Techniques for Cervical Radiculopathy and Myelopathy
Authors: Kavanagh R. G. , Butler J. S. , O'Byrne J. M. , Poynton A. R.
Published: September 2011

Cervical spondylosis is a common problem encountered in modern orthopaedic practice. It is associated with significant patient morbidity related to the consequent radiculopathic and myelopathic symptoms. Operative intervention for this condition is generally indicated if conservative measures fail; however there are some circumstances in which urgent surgical intervention is necessary. Planning any surgical intervention must take into account a number of variables including, but not limited to, the nature, location and extent of the pathology, a history of previous operative interventions, and patient co-morbidities. There are many different surgical options and a multitude of different procedures have been described using both the anterior and posterior approaches to the cervical spine. The use of autograft to achieve cervical fusion is still the gold standard with allograft showing similar results; however fusion techniques are constantly evolving with novel synthetic bone graft substitutes now widely available.
Reduced Cardiorespiratory Fitness after Stroke: Biological Consequences and Exercise-Induced Adaptations
Authors: Billinger Sandra A. , Coughenour Eileen , MacKay-Lyons Marilyn J. , Ivey Frederick M.
Published: September 2011

Evidence from several studies consistently shows decline in cardiorespiratory (CR) fitness and physical function after disabling stroke. The broader implications of such a decline to general health may be partially understood through negative poststroke physiologic adaptations such as unilateral muscle fiber type shifts, impaired hemodynamic function, and decrements in systemic metabolic status. These physiologic changes also interrelate with reductions in activities of daily living (ADLs), community ambulation, and exercise tolerance, causing a perpetual cycle of worsening disability and deteriorating health. Fortunately, initial evidence suggests that stroke participants retain the capacity to adapt physiologically to an exercise training stimulus. However, despite this evidence, exercise as a therapeutic intervention continues to be clinically underutilized in the general stroke population. Far more research is needed to fully comprehend the consequences of and remedies for CR fitness impairments after stroke. The purpose of this brief review is to describe some of what is currently known about the physiological consequences of CR fitness decline after stroke. Additionally, there is an overview of the evidence supporting exercise interventions for improving CR fitness, and associated aspects of general health in this population.
The Histone Demethylase JMJD2B Plays an Essential Role in Human Carcinogenesis through Positive Regulation of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 6
Authors: Toyokawa Gouji , Cho Hyun-Soo , Iwai Yukiko , Yoshimatsu Masanori , Takawa Masashi , Hayami Shinya , Maejima Kazuhiro , Shimizu Noriaki , Tanaka Hirotoshi , Tsunoda Tatsuhiko , Field Helen I. , Kelly John D. , Neal David E. , Ponder Bruce A.J. , Maehara Yoshihiko , Nakamura Yusuke , Hamamoto Ryuji
Published: September 2011

Histone methyltransferases and demethylases are known to regulate transcription by altering the epigenetic marks on histones, but the pathologic roles of their dysfunction in human diseases, such as cancer, still remain to be elucidated. Herein, we show that the histone demethylase JMJD2B is involved in human carcinogenesis. Quantitative real-time PCR showed notably elevated levels of JMJD2B expression in bladder cancers, compared with corresponding nonneoplastic tissues (P < 0.0001), and elevated protein expression was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. In addition, cDNA microarray analysis revealed transactivation of JMJD2B in lung cancer, and immunohistochemical analysis showed protein overexpression in lung cancer. siRNA-mediated reduction of expression of JMJD2B in bladder and lung cancer cell lines significantly suppressed the proliferation of cancer cells, and suppressing JMJD2B expression lead to a decreased population of cancer cells in S phase, with a concomitant increase of cells in G1 phase. Furthermore, a clonogenicity assay showed that the demethylase activity of JMJD2B possesses an oncogenic activity. Microarray analysis after knockdown of JMJD2B revealed that JMJD2B could regulate multiple pathways which contribute to carcinogenesis, including the cell-cycle pathway. Of the downstream genes, chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that CDK6 (cyclin-dependent kinase 6), essential in G1–S transition, was directly regulated by JMJD2B, via demethylation of histone H3-K9 in its promoter region. Expression levels of JMJD2B and CDK6 were significantly correlated in various types of cell lines. Deregulation of histone demethylation resulting in perturbation of the cell cycle, represents a novel mechanism for human carcinogenesis and JMJD2B is a feasible molecular target for anticancer therapy. Cancer Prev Res; 4(12); 2051–61. ©2011 AACR.
Indexing of Renal Function Parameters by Body Surface Area: Intelligence or Folly?
Authors: Delanaye Pierre , Krzesinski Jean-Marie
Published: September 2011

Indexation of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) by body surface area (BSA) is often done without raising any questions. In this article, we will shortly review the limitations of such indexation and illustrate potential errors in clinical practice due to this indexation. Adjusting the GFR by BSA is particularly misleading in patients with abnormal body size (obese and anorectic). We will also insist on the fact that indexation by BSA is not required for the GFR longitudinal follow-up. Additionally, we will discuss the implications and consequences of BSA indexation on the creatinine-based equations, such as the Cockcroft-Gault and the MDRD study equations.
Urbanization Effect on the Diurnal Temperature Range: Different Roles under Solar Dimming and Brightening*
Authors: Wang Kai , Ye Hong , Chen Feng , Xiong Yongzhu , Wang Cuiping
Published: September 2011

Based on the 1960–2009 meteorological data from 559 stations across China, the urbanization effect on the diurnal temperature range (DTR) was evaluated in this study. Different roles of urbanization were specially detected under solar dimming and solar brightening. During the solar dimming time, both urban and rural stations showed decreasing trends in maximum temperature (Tmax) because of decreased radiation, suggesting that the dimming effects are not only evident in urban areas but also in rural areas. However, minimum temperature (Tmin) increased more substantially in urban areas than in rural areas during the dimming period, resulting in a greater decrease in the DTR in the urban areas. When the radiation reversed from dimming to brightening, the change in the DTR became different. The Tmax increased faster in rural areas, suggesting that the brightening could be much stronger in rural areas than in urban areas. Similar trends of Tmin between urban and rural areas appeared during the brightening period. The urban DTR continued to show a decreasing trend because of the urbanization effect, while the rural DTR presented an increasing trend. The remarkable DTR difference in the urban and rural areas showed a significant urbanization effect in the solar brightening time.
Presynaptically Silent Synapses
Authors: Crawford Devon C. , Mennerick Steven
Published: September 2011

Synapses represent the main junctures of communication between neurons in the nervous system. In many neurotransmitter systems, a fraction of presynaptic terminals fails to release vesicles in response to action potential stimulation and strong calcium influx. These silent presynaptic terminals exhibit a reversible functional dormancy beyond low vesicle release probability, and dormancy status may have important implications in neural function. Recent advances have implicated presynaptic proteins interacting with vesicles downstream of cAMP and protein kinase A signaling cascades in modulating the number of these mute presynaptic terminals, and dormancy induction may represent a homeostatic neuroprotective mechanism active during pathological insults involving excitotoxicity. Interestingly, dormancy reversal may also be induced during Hebbian plasticity. Here, details of synaptic dormancy, recent insights into the molecular signaling cascades involved, and potential clinical and mechanistic implications of this form of synaptic plasticity are described.
Existence of stationary distributions for a class of nonlinear time series models in random environment domain
Authors: Wang Yueheng , Zhu Enwen , Xu Yong
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we study the problem of a variety of nonlinear time series model X

n+1= F(X

n
, e

n+1(Z

n+1)) in which {Z

n+1} is a Markov chain with finite state space, and for every state i of the Markov chain, {e

n
(i)} is a sequence of independent and identically distributed random variables. Also, the existence of the stationary distribution of the sequence {X

n
} defined by the above model is investigated. Some new novel results on the underlying models are presented.

2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 60J10
Characterization of the sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) global transcriptome using Illumina paired-end sequencing and development of EST-SSR markers
Authors: Wei Wenliang , Qi Xiaoqiong , Wang Linhai , Zhang Yanxin , Hua Wei , Li Donghua , Lv Haixia , Zhang Xiurong
Published: September 2011

Background

Sesame is an important oil crop, but limited transcriptomic and genomic data are currently available. This information is essential to clarify the fatty acid and lignan biosynthesis molecular mechanism. In addition, a shortage of sesame molecular markers limits the efficiency and accuracy of genetic breeding. High-throughput transcriptomic sequencing is essential to generate a large transcriptome sequence dataset for gene discovery and molecular marker development.

Results

Sesame transcriptomes from five tissues were sequenced using Illumina paired-end sequencing technology. The cleaned raw reads were assembled into a total of 86,222 unigenes with an average length of 629 bp. Of the unigenes, 46,584 (54.03%) had significant similarity with proteins in the NCBI nonredundant protein database and Swiss-Prot database (E-value < 10-5). Of these annotated unigenes, 10,805 and 27,588 unigenes were assigned to gene ontology categories and clusters of orthologous groups, respectively. In total, 22,003 (25.52%) unigenes were mapped onto 119 pathways using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Pathway database (KEGG). Furthermore, 44,750 unigenes showed homology to 15,460 Arabidopsis genes based on BLASTx analysis against The Arabidopsis Information Resource (TAIR, Version 10) and revealed relatively high gene coverage. In total, 7,702 unigenes were converted into SSR markers (EST-SSR). Dinucleotide SSRs were the dominant repeat motif (67.07%, 5,166), followed by trinucleotide (24.89%, 1,917), tetranucleotide (4.31%, 332), hexanucleotide (2.62%, 202), and pentanucleotide (1.10%, 85) SSRs. AG/CT (46.29%) was the dominant repeat motif, followed by AC/GT (16.07%), AT/AT (10.53%), AAG/CTT (6.23%), and AGG/CCT (3.39%). Fifty EST-SSRs were randomly selected to validate amplification and to determine the degree of polymorphism in the genomic DNA pools. Forty primer pairs successfully amplified DNA fragments and detected significant amounts of polymorphism among 24 sesame accessions.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that Illumina paired-end sequencing is a fast and cost-effective approach to gene discovery and molecular marker development in non-model organisms. Our results provide a comprehensive sequence resource for sesame research.
Differential proteome analysis of human embryonic kidney cell line (HEK-293) following mycophenolic acid treatment
Authors: Qasim Muhammad , Rahman Hazir , Oellerich Michael , Asif Abdul R
Published: September 2011

Background

Mycophenolic acid (MPA) is widely used as a post transplantation medicine to prevent acute organ rejection. In the present study we used proteomics approach to identify proteome alterations in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK-293) after treatment with therapeutic dose of MPA. Following 72 hours MPA treatment, total protein lysates were prepared, resolved by two dimensional gel electrophoresis and differentially expressed proteins were identified by QTOF-MS/MS analysis. Expressional regulations of selected proteins were further validated by real time PCR and Western blotting.

Results

The proliferation assay demonstrated that therapeutic MPA concentration causes a dose dependent inhibition of HEK-293 cell proliferation. A significant apoptosis was observed after MPA treatment, as revealed by caspase 3 activity. Proteome analysis showed a total of 12 protein spots exhibiting differential expression after incubation with MPA, of which 7 proteins (complement component 1 Q subcomponent-binding protein, electron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta, cytochrome b-c1 complex subunit, peroxiredoxin 1, thioredoxin domain-containing protein 12, myosin regulatory light chain 2, and profilin 1) showed significant increase in their expression. The expression of 5 proteins (protein SET, stathmin, 40S ribosomal protein S12, histone H2B type 1 A, and histone H2B type 1-C/E/F/G/I) were down-regulated. MPA mainly altered the proteins associated with the cytoskeleton (26%), chromatin structure/dynamics (17%) and energy production/conversion (17%). Both real time PCR and Western blotting confirmed the regulation of myosin regulatory light chain 2 and peroxiredoxin 1 by MPA treatment. Furthermore, HT-29 cells treated with MPA and total kidney cell lysate from MMF treated rats showed similar increased expression of myosin regulatory light chain 2.

Conclusion

The emerging use of MPA in diverse pathophysiological conditions demands in-depth studies to understand molecular basis of its therapeutic response. The present study identifies the myosin regulatory light chain 2 and peroxiredoxin 1 along with 10 other proteins showing significant regulation by MPA. Further characterization of these proteins may help to understand the diverse cellular effects of MPA in addition to its immunosuppressive activity.
A functional tandem-repeats polymorphism in the downstream of TERTis associated with the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Chinese population
Authors: Zhang Yang , Zhang Hongxing , Zhai Yun , Wang Zhifu , Ma Fuchao , Wang Hongxue , Li Peiyao , Zhang Ying , Yu Lixia , Cui Ying , He Fuchu , Zhou Gangqiao
Published: September 2011

Background

Increases in human telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) expression and telomerase activity are frequently seen in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Recently, a variable tandem-repeats polymorphism, MNS16A, located in the downstream region of the TERT gene, was identified and reported to have an effect on TERT expression and telomerase activity. We examined whether the functional MNS16A was related to the risk of occurrence or progression of NPC in the Chinese population.

Methods

We genotyped the MNS16A polymorphism in a case-control study of 855 patients with NPC and 1036 cancer-free controls using PCR, and determined genotype by classifying the DNA band of 243 or 272 base pairs (bp) as the short (S) allele and 302 or 333 bp as the long (L) allele. The genetic associations with the risk of NPC were analyzed by logistic regression.

Results

The MNS16A genotype was not associated with the progression of NPC. However, individuals carrying the S alleles (SL + SS genotype) had a significantly reduced risk of NPC occurrence compared with those carrying the LL genotype (odds ratio (OR) = 0. 71, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0. 52 to 0. 96, P = 0. 025). Using a immunohistochemical assay on the NPC tissues, the SL genotype carriers were found to have lower TERT expression than the LL genotype carriers (P = 0. 035).

Conclusions

Our study indicates that the TERT MNS16A polymorphism may contribute to the risk of NPC onset in Chinese population.
Susceptibility of human primary neuronal cells to Xenotropic Murine Leukemia Virus-related (XMRV) virus infection
Authors: Ravichandran Veerasamy , Major Eugen O , Ibe Carol , Monaco Maria Chiara , Girisetty Mohan Kumar Haleyur , Hewlett Indira K
Published: September 2011

Background

Xenotropic Murine Leukemia Virus-related (XMRV) virus is a recently identified mouse gammaretrovirus that has the ability to infect certain human cells. In this study, we investigated the susceptibility of primary neuronal cell types to infection with XMRV.

Findings

We observed that the human primary progenitors, progenitor-derived neurons, and progenitor-derived astrocytes supported XMRV multiplication. Interestingly, both progenitors and progenitor-derived neurons were more susceptible compared with progenitor-derived astrocytes. In addition, XMRV-infected Jurkat cells were able to transmit infection to neuronal cells.

Conclusions

These data suggest that neuronal cells are susceptible for XMRV infection.
Prevalence of Clonorchis sinensis infection in dogs and cats in subtropical southern China
Authors: Lin Rui-Qing , Tang Jian-Dong , Zhou Dong-Hui , Song Hui-Qun , Huang Si-Yang , Chen Jia-Xu , Chen Mu-Xin , Zhang Han , Zhu Xing-Quan , Zhou Xiao-Nong
Published: September 2011

Background

Clonorchiasis, caused by Clonorchis sinensis, is one of the major parasitic zoonoses in China, particularly in China's southern Guangdong province where the prevalence of C. sinensis infection in humans is high. However, little is known of the prevalence of C. sinensis infection in its reservoir hosts dogs and cats. Hence, the prevalence of C. sinensis infection in dogs and cats was investigated in Guangdong province, China between October 2006 and March 2008.

Results

A total of 503 dogs and 194 cats from 13 administrative regions in Guangdong province were examined by post-mortem examination. The worms were examined, counted, and identified to species according to existing keys and descriptions. The average prevalences of C. sinensis infection in dogs and cats were 20.5% and 41.8%, respectively. The infection intensities in dogs were usually light, but in cats the infection intensities were more serious. The prevalences were higher in some of the cities located in the Pearl River Delta region which is the most important endemic area in Guangdong province, but the prevalences were relatively lower in seaside cities.

Conclusions

The present investigation revealed a high prevalence of C. sinensis infection in its reservoir hosts dogs and cats in China's subtropical Guangdong province, which provides relevant "base-line" data for conducting control strategies and measures against clonorchiasis in this region.
Bismuth nitrate pentahydrate-induced novel nitration of eugenol
Authors: Canales Luis , Bandyopadhyay Debasish , Banik Bimal K
Published: September 2011

Background

Eugenol, the main constituent of clove oil possesses a number of medicinal activities. To enhance the medicinal property, structural modification is required. On the other hand, bismuth nitrate pentahydrate has been established as an excellent eco-friendly nitrating agent for several classes of organic compounds.

Results

Bismuth nitrate pentahydrate-induced nitration of eugenol has been investigated very thoroughly. Twenty five different conditions have been studied. The microwave-induced solvent-free reaction has been identified as the best condition.

Conclusions

Spectral analyses confirm that 5-nitroeugenol is the sole product in all the cases. No oxidized or isomerized product could be detected.
Mechanisms of quadriceps muscle weakness in knee joint osteoarthritis: the effects of prolonged vibration on torque and muscle activation in osteoarthritic and healthy control subjects
Authors: Rice David A , McNair Peter J , Lewis Gwyn N
Published: September 2011

Introduction

A consequence of knee joint osteoarthritis (OA) is an inability to fully activate the quadriceps muscles, a problem termed arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI). AMI leads to marked quadriceps weakness that impairs physical function and may hasten disease progression. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether γ-loop dysfunction contributes to AMI in people with knee joint OA.

Methods

Fifteen subjects with knee joint OA and 15 controls with no history of knee joint pathology participated in this study. Quadriceps and hamstrings peak isometric torque (Nm) and electromyography (EMG) amplitude were collected before and after 20 minutes of 50 Hz vibration applied to the infrapatellar tendon. Between-group differences in pre-vibration torque were analysed using a one-way analysis of covariance, with age, gender and body mass (kg) as the covariates. If the γ-loop is intact, vibration should decrease torque and EMG levels in the target muscle; if dysfunctional, then torque and EMG levels should not change following vibration. One-sample t tests were thus undertaken to analyse whether percentage changes in torque and EMG differed from zero after vibration in each group. In addition, analyses of covariance were utilised to analyse between-group differences in the percentage changes in torque and EMG following vibration.

Results

Pre-vibration quadriceps torque was significantly lower in the OA group compared with the control group (P = 0.005). Following tendon vibration, quadriceps torque (P < 0.001) and EMG amplitude (P ≤0.001) decreased significantly in the control group but did not change in the OA group (all P > 0.299). Hamstrings torque and EMG amplitude were unchanged in both groups (all P > 0.204). The vibration-induced changes in quadriceps torque and EMG were significantly different between the OA and control groups (all P < 0.011). No between-group differences were observed for the change in hamstrings torque or EMG (all P > 0.554).

Conclusions

γ-loop dysfunction may contribute to AMI in individuals with knee joint OA, partially explaining the marked quadriceps weakness and atrophy that is often observed in this population.
Adverse Effect of Older Age on the Recurrence of Soft Tissue Sarcoma of the Extremities and Trunk
Authors: Biau David J. , Ferguson Peter C. , Turcotte Robert E. , Chung Peter , Isler Marc H. , Riad Soha , Griffin Anthony M. , Catton Charles N. , O'Sullivan Brian , Wunder Jay S.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

To examine the effect of age on the recurrence of soft tissue sarcoma in the extremities and trunk.

Patients and Methods

This was a multicenter study that included 2,385 patients with median age at surgery of 57 years. The end points considered were local recurrence and metastasis. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios across the age ranges with and without adjustment for known confounding factors.

Results

Older patients presented with tumors that were larger (P < .001) and of higher grade (P < .001). The proportion of positive margins increased significantly as patients age (P < .001), but radiation therapy was relatively underused in patients older than age 60 years. The 5-year cumulative incidences of local recurrence were 7.2% (95% CI, 4% to 11.7%) for patients age 30 years or younger and 12.9% (95% CI, 9.1% to 17.5%) for patients age 75 years or older. The corresponding 5-year cumulative incidences of metastasis were 17.5% (95% CI, 12.1% to 23.7%) and 33.9% (95% CI, 28.1% to 39.8%) for the same groups. Regression models showed that age was significantly associated with local recurrence (P < .001) and metastasis (P < .001) in nonadjusted models. After adjusting for imbalance in presentation and treatment variables, age remained significantly associated with local recurrence (P = .031) and metastasis (P = .019).

Conclusion

Older patients have worse outcomes because they tend to present with worse tumors and are treated less aggressively. However, there remained a significant increase in the risk of both local and systemic recurrence associated with increasing age that could not be explained by tumor or treatment characteristics.
Phase II/III Study of R-CHOP-21 Versus R-CHOP-14 for Untreated Indolent B-Cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: JCOG 0203 Trial
Authors: Watanabe Takashi , Tobinai Kensei , Shibata Taro , Tsukasaki Kunihiro , Morishima Yasuo , Maseki Nobuo , Kinoshita Tomohiro , Suzuki Takayo , Yamaguchi Motoko , Ando Kiyoshi , Ogura Michinori , Taniwaki Masafumi , Uike Naokuni , Takeuchi Kengo , Nawano Shigeru , Terauchi Takashi , Hotta Tomomitsu
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Rituximab with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (R-CHOP) is one of the most effective front-line therapies to treat indolent B-cell lymphoma. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), which potentiates antibody-dependent rituximab cytotoxicity, is used to shorten CHOP intervals. To improve progression-free survival (PFS) in patients treated with R-CHOP as the primary end point, we conducted a phase III study.

Patients and Methods

Patients with untreated stages III to IV indolent B-cell lymphoma were randomly assigned to six cycles of R-CHOP every 3 weeks (R-CHOP-21) or every 2 weeks (R-CHOP-14) with G-CSF. Maintenance rituximab was not allowed.

Results

Three hundred patients were enrolled. At the median follow-up time of 5.2 years, there was no significant difference in PFS between arms for the 299 eligible patients; the median was 3.7 (R-CHOP-21) v 4.7 (R-CHOP-14) years, 57% v 58% at 3 years, and 41% v 43% at 6 years, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.92; 95% CI, 0.68 to 1.25; one-sided P = .30). The median overall survival (OS) time was not reached in either arm, and there was no significant difference (6-year OS: 87% [R-CHOP-21] v 88% [R-CHOP-14]; HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 0.57 to 2.30; one-sided P = .65). Although grade 4 neutropenia and grade 3 infections were more frequent in the R-CHOP-21 group, R-CHOP was feasible in both arms.

Conclusion

The R-CHOP dose-dense strategy failed to improve PFS of patients with untreated indolent B-cell lymphoma. Further improvement of first-line treatment or investigations on postremission therapy following R-CHOP should be explored.
The Offer-Curve Approach to Labor Market Analysis: From Marshall-Pigou Over Robbins and Buchanan into Oblivion?
Authors: Ambrosi Gerhard Michael
Published: September 2011

In the pure theory of foreign trade, offer curves are still a well-known textbook device for analyzing conflicting interests between countries engaged in foreign trade. In his early days Alfred Marshall suggested that this analytical device be used also for industrial disputes between workers' trade unions and employers within a specific country. Marshall's successor as Cambridge professor of political economy, A. C. Pigou, elaborated this suggestion. With express reference to Marshall, and mentioning the assistance of J. M. Keynes, Pigou used the offer-curve approach for analyzing the interaction between workers and employers as negotiators in wage bargains. But the next step along this line of analysis strangely did not occur in “Marshallian” Cambridge but in the rival LSE. Lionel Robbins used the offer-curve approach and criticized Pigou (and, incidentally, Frank Knight as well) for deficiencies in “backbending” labor supply analysis. After a very long silence over this matter in the economic literature, James Buchanan, in 1971, unsuccessfully tried to propagate Lionel Robbins's use of the offer-curve approach for labor supply analysis. He praised its general equilibrium aspects as being superior to conventional approaches. The present contribution traces these episodes and investigates why there is continuing reluctance in labor market analysis to employ an otherwise well-established analytical instrument.
Eyewitness Accounts and Political Claims: Transnational Responses to the 2009 Postelection Protests in Iran
Authors: Alexanian Janet A.
Published: September 2011

Through an examination of the use of media in the 2009 postelection protests in Iran, this article contextualizes the use of social media as a form of eyewitness account within the broader context of media distrust in Iran and Iranian expatriate satellite television. What emerges through this analysis is a set of concerns related to the eyewitness account offered through digital media as a potentially uncontrollable and indeterminate form. As I show through a media analysis of online content and debates, these concerns are evident both in the context of Iran and among Iranians in the diaspora. In the latter case, this article considers the protests as a transnational media event, focusing on the use of social media in the Iranian diaspora, and examines how Iranians around the world have used social media to connect to the events in Iran as a form of activism and in the performance of Iranian identities. Surveys and interviews conducted with Iranians in Los Angeles and Toronto reveal among Iranian immigrants a deep concern with the global image of Iran, an emphasis on publicity as a form of political action, and anxieties related to the representation of the “Iranian community” in Western media.
Facts and Myths about Refereeing
Authors: Hamermesh Daniel S
Published: September 2011

Referees’ and editors’ behavior is illustrated by data from a random sample of refereeing requests by seven economics journals. Referees tend to be higher-quality (better-cited, prime-age) than authors. Except for a few superstar authors, there is no matching of authors and referees by quality. Nearly 80 percent of those asked to referee do so, with a median completion time of less than two months. Except for a few very slow referees and another few who promise but fail to accomplish the task, the slow editorial process is not due to referees’ behavior. Paying referees speeds the job, mainly by speeding up those who would barely not qualify for the fee.
Network Externality: An Uncommon Tragedy
Authors: Liebowitz S. J , Margolis Stephen E
Published: September 2011

Economists have defined ‘network externality’ and have examined putative inframarginal market failures associated with it. This paper distinguishes between network effects and network externalities, where the latter are market failures. The authors argue that while network effects are important, network externalities are theoretically fragile and empirically undocumented. Some network externalities are merely pecuniary. Network ownership or transactions among network participants can internalize some network effects. The type of market failure that has been associated with these externalities is a transition problem that has little to do with externality.
The Usefulness of Core Theory in Economics
Authors: Telser Lester G
Published: September 2011

Core theory furnishes a useful framework for studying a wide variety of economic problems. It has an undeserved reputation of being too abstract owing mainly to the manner in which it is employed in the theory of general equilibrium. In fact, core theory is a highly flexible way of looking at practical economic problems, especially problems in industrial organization. This paper seeks to show how simple numerical examples can illustrate the idea of the core and, in turn, how the core can illustrate basic principles of economics.
Completing China's Move to the Market
Authors: Perkins Dwight
Published: September 2011

Beginning in late 1978, by luck as much as design, China arrived at a strategy for market-oriented economic reform that combined substantial reform with rapid growth in GDP and exports. The sequencing of reform began with the ‘easy to reform’ sectors, agriculture and foreign trade, and then took up the more difficult task of reforming the large state-owned enterprises. With respect to agriculture, small-scale industry, and foreign investment, China found ways of introducing meaningful property rights into the increasingly marketized system. A partially unreformed financial system and inadequate autonomy of large state enterprises accounts, however, for the current stop-go nature of Chinese development.
Universal Banking
Authors: Benston George J
Published: September 2011

Universal banks can offer the entire range of financial services within the bank or through subsidiaries. Most countries permit universal banking. In contrast, the United States is served only by specialized banks. Universal banking, particularly in Germany, is contrasted with specialized banking with respect to their effect on financial stability, economic development, other financial institutions, concentration of political and economic power, consumer choice, and conflicts of interest. This examination, including a review of relevant empirical studies, leads to the conclusion that universal banking offers many benefits and few costs to U.S. consumers.
Time-Lapse Monitoring of Fabric Changes in Granular Materials by Coda Wave Interferometry
Authors: Wuttke F. , Asslan M. , Schanz T.
Published: September 2011

The determination of wave velocities in soils captures an important role for small-strain parameter in constitutive modeling as well as in monitoring processes of the state. The wave velocity differs substantially with the porosity, surrounding pressure, degree of saturation and other parameters in soils. In particular when the environmental conditions are non-stationary. For studying the change of state parameters in granular materials, the identification of the velocity evolution can be a challenge in particular if the perturbations are small. We discuss the application of a new seismic method for geotechnical experiments—the Coda wave interferometry. The method is used to detect the wave velocities change related to small soil perturbations. Whereas the perturbations are caused by small changes in stress and void ratio. Different material, well-known sands and artificial glass beads are analysed in this experimental study by conventional volume measurements and seismic methods to detect the stress and porosity changes. The wave excitation and recording was done by piezoceramic bender elements. In result of the tests, the coda wave interferometry emphasized its large potential for the time-lapse monitoring of soils.
A Digital Image-Based Deformation Measurement System for Triaxial Tests
Authors: Bhandari A. R. , Powrie W. , Harkness R. M.
Published: September 2011

This paper describes the development of a new digital image-based deformation measurement system for triaxial tests on soils. Three digital cameras placed on radii at intervals of 120° viewed on plan outside a transparent triaxial cell were used to capture images of a deforming cylindrical soil specimen at various instants. A digital image correlation program was written to analyze the captured images, using ray tracing to take account of image distortion due to refraction at the interfaces between the cell fluid, the cell wall, and the atmosphere. The technique is validated with reference to a sand specimen tested in drained triaxial compression. Typical implementations of the system to study surface deformation characteristics (e.g., barreling, onset of localization, and shear band evolution) of deforming soil specimens are illustrated.
Review
Authors: Diestel Lijana
Published: September 2011

Uwe Hinrichs [unter Mitarbeit von Petra Himstedt-Vaid] (ed.), Handbuch der Eurolinguistik, (Slavistische Studienbücher, Neue Folge, Band 20), Wiesbaden: Harrassowitz, 2010. xii+996 pp.
Breastfeeding, Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Colostrum, and Infant Mental Development
Authors: Guxens Mònica , Mendez Michelle A. , Moltó-Puigmartí Carolina , Julvez Jordi , García-Esteban Raquel , Forns Joan , Ferrer Muriel , Vrijheid Martine , López-Sabater M. Carmen , Sunyer Jordi
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND:

Breastfeeding has been associated with improved neurodevelopment in children. However, it remains unknown to what extent nutritional advantages of breast milk may explain this relationship.

OBJECTIVE:

We assessed the role of parental psychosocial factors and colostrum long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) levels in the relationship between breastfeeding and children's neurodevelopment.

METHODS:

A population-based birth cohort was established in the city of Sabadell (Catalonia, Spain) as part of the INMA-INfancia y Medio Ambiente Project. A total of 657 women were recruited during the first trimester of pregnancy. Information about parental characteristics and breastfeeding was obtained by using a questionnaire, and trained psychologists assessed mental and psychomotor development by using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development in 504 children at 14 months of age.

RESULTS:

A high percentage of breastfeeds among all milk feeds accumulated during the first 14 months was positively related with child mental development (0.37 points per month of full breastfeeding [95% confidence interval: 0.06–0.67]). Maternal education, social class, and intelligence quotient only partly explained this association. Children with a longer duration of breastfeeding also exposed to higher ratios between n-3 and n-6 PUFAs in colostrum had significantly higher mental scores than children with low breastfeeding duration exposed to low levels.

CONCLUSIONS:

Greater levels of accumulated breastfeeding during the first year of life were related to higher mental development at 14 months, largely independently from a wide range of parental psychosocial factors. LC-PUFA levels seem to play a beneficial role in children's mental development when breastfeeding levels are high.
A Hospital-wide Quality-Improvement Collaborative to Reduce Catheter-Associated Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Wheeler Derek S. , Giaccone Mary Jo , Hutchinson Nancy , Haygood Mary , Bondurant Pattie , Demmel Kathy , Kotagal Uma R. , Connelly Beverly , Corcoran Melinda S. , Line Kristin , Rich Kate , Schoettker Pamela J. , Brilli Richard J.
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND:

Catheter-associated bloodstream infections (CA BSIs) are associated with increased hospital length of stay, total hospital costs, and mortality. Quality-improvement collaboratives (QICs) are frequently used to improve health care quality. Our PICU was previously involved in a successful national QIC to reduce the incidence of CA BSI in critically ill children.

OBJECTIVE:

We hypothesized that the formation of a hospital-wide QIC would reduce the incidence of CA BSI throughout our institution.

METHODS:

We retrospectively reviewed the incidence of CA BSI from March 2006 to March 2010. The collaborative approach included hospital-wide implementation of central-line insertion and maintenance bundles that emphasized full sterile barrier precautions and chlorhexidine skin preparation during line insertion, daily discussion of catheter necessity, and meticulous site and tubing care. The hospital units involved were our 3 critical care units, the oncology unit, the bone marrow transplant unit, and wards. Each individual unit was responsible for collecting unit-specific data and performing event-cause analysis within 48 hours of identifying a CA BSI. These results were shared with the other hospital units during monthly meetings. Compliance with the insertion and maintenance bundles was monitored and reported to each unit monthly.

RESULTS:

The hospital-wide CA-BSI rate decreased from a baseline of 3.0 to <1.0 CA BSI per 1000 line-days after implementation of the QIC.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our hospital-wide QIC resulted in a significant reduction in the incidence of CA BSI at our children's hospital. A collaborative model based on improvement science methodology is both feasible and effective in reducing the incidence of CA BSI.
Four-Year Prospective Study of BMI and Mental Health Problems in Young Children
Authors: Sawyer Michael Gifford , Harchak Taylor , Wake Melissa , Lynch John
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate prospectively the relationship between BMI and the mental health and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of young children.

METHODS:

In this study we used data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children obtained when children were 4 to 5 and 8 to 9 years old. BMI was available for 3363 children at both waves. Mental health problems were assessed by using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), which was completed by parents and teachers. HRQoL was assessed by using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), which was completed by the parents.

RESULTS:

Logistic regression models were adjusted for children's age, gender, baseline SDQ or PedsQL scores, and maternal characteristics. A 1-SD increase in BMI in children aged 4 to 5 years was associated with increased odds of scoring in the abnormal range of the SDQ peer problems scale of 1.15 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.28) for parent reports and 1.20 (95% CI: 1.04–1.37) for teacher reports when these children were aged 8 to 9 years. The odds ratio for children who scored above the at-risk cutoff on the parent-reported PedsQL social problems scale was 1.17 (95% CI: 1.06–1.28) for each 1-SD increase at 4 to 5 years of age. There were also increased odds for teacher reports of childhood emotional problems.

CONCLUSIONS:

Higher BMI in children aged 4 to 5 years was positively related to poorer peer relationships and teacher-reported emotional problems but not to other childhood mental health problems, in these children at 8 to 9 years of age. Prospective studies are needed to determine if peer problems experienced by children with higher BMI predict subsequent mental health problems in other areas.
Comparative Study of HgI2, PbI2 and TlBr Films Aimed for Ionizing Radiation Detection in Medical Imaging
Authors: Mulato Marcelo , Condeles José F. , Ugucioni Julio C. , Caldeira-Filho Ademar M. , Destefano Natalia
Published: September 2011

Wide bandgap semiconductor films were obtained by spray pyrolysis, thermal evaporation and casting. These films were characterized under similar conditions in order to compare their structures, surface morphology and photocurrent properties. All films show either a crystalline or a polycrystalline structure. SEM pictures of sprayed films present holes and fissures and non-total covering of the substrate. The photoresponse was obtained for evaporated TlBr films, HgI2 casted with polystyrene (PS) scaffold, sprayed and evaporated PbI2 films. The photo to dark current ratio is discussed as well as the difference of photo to dark current at an electric field of 100 V/cm. The discussion also focuses on a future optimized material.
The Influence of Lattice Strain on Single Vacancy and Krypton Atom Diffusion in Uranium Dioxide
Authors: Semi Torey , Bartel Timothy J. , Lusk Mark T.
Published: September 2011

Nuclear fuel pins exhibit distortions in the UO2 lattice in response to temperature gradients, defects and the introduction of fission product (FP) gases. These distortions can have a significant influence on the activation barriers associated with fission product gas diffusion. A predictive understanding of this relationship is particularly relevant to anticipating the evolution of fission product gases during rapid temperature transients. Density Functional Theory (DFT) has the capacity to provide a relationship between lattice distortion and FP gas diffusivity by generating estimates of dilation dependent activation energies.

As a first step in this direction, the relation between lattice dilation and activation energy for isolated vacancies within an otherwise pristine block of alpha-quartz is quantified, where precise experimental data is readily available. The results lend confidence to the basic approach which is based on a one-shot transition state method, developed to lessen the computational resources required by the full transition state method. This technique is first applied to α-quartz for O vacancy hopping and diamond-Si for Si vacancy hopping. The method is subsequently extended to consider isolated uranium vacancies in UO2. This in turn is further generalized to estimate the activation volume for Kr atoms in UO2. Thus two different types of defects are considered; those of species native to the material and, in the case of UO2, FP gases introduced through the fission process.