bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐invasive assessment of fibrosis in liver grafts due to hepatitis C virus recurrence
Authors: J.S. Cross Timothy , Jothimani Dinesh , Heneghan Michael A. , Harrison Phillip M.
Published: April 2011

Cross TJS, Jothimani D, Heneghan MA, Harrison PM. Non‐invasive assessment of fibrosis in liver grafts due to hepatitis C virus recurrence. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 345–351. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has become the most common indication for liver transplantation in the United States and Europe. Recurrence of HCV is universal in all liver graft recipients, but the natural history of the disease is variable with some patients displaying slowly progressive liver injury, while approximately 30% become cirrhotic within five yr of surgery. Currently, liver biopsy is the reference standard to assess liver injury in the post‐transplant setting. But biopsy is associated with complications such as bleeding and pain, as well as the risk of sampling error and discordance in reporting between histopathologists. Thus, as in the pre‐transplant setting, there is increasing attention being drawn to the use of non‐invasive tests of liver fibrosis. This review examines the role of non‐invasive assessment of hepatic fibrosis in the post‐transplant setting including simple tests such as aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐platelet ratio index, the Benlloch formula, London Transplant Centre score, and finally transient elastography. The authors assess the respective advantages and disadvantages of the tests and consider how non‐invasive tests of liver fibrosis can be utilized in the future management of post‐transplant HCV infection.
Hypertension in standard criteria deceased donors is associated with inferior outcomes following kidney transplantation
Authors: Singh Rajinder P. , Farney Alan C. , Rogers Jeffrey , Gautreaux Michael , Reeves‐Daniel Amber , Hartmann Erica , Doares William , Iskandar Samy , Adams Patricia , Stratta Robert J.
Published: April 2011

Singh RP, Farney AC, Rogers J, Gautreaux M, Reeves‐Daniel A, Hartmann E, Doares W, Iskandar S, Adams P, Stratta RJ. Hypertension in standard criteria deceased donors is associated with inferior outcomes following kidney transplantation. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: E437–E446. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  Hypertension may be a either a cause or an effect of kidney disease. Although hypertension is an important component of the expanded criteria donor definition, risks of transplanting deceased donor kidneys from hypertensive standard criteria donors (SCD) are less well understood.

Methods:  Retrospective single‐center study in all adult patients who received a deceased donor kidney transplant from a SCD to evaluate the role of donor hypertension as a pre‐transplant risk factor for death‐censored graft loss (DCGL) and renal function.

Results:  From October 2001 through May 2008, 297 kidney transplants were performed from donation after brain death SCDs. A total of 47 (15.8%) grafts were lost, including 19 (6.4%) deaths with functioning grafts. Univariate analysis of death‐censored cases (n = 278) identified history of donor hypertension, cold ischemia time (CIT) >30 h, and African American (AA) recipients as significant pre‐transplant risk factors predictive for DCGL at five yr follow‐up (mean 38 months, all p < 0.02). Cox regression analysis showed donor hypertension (relative risk 2.2, p = 0.04) to be a significant risk factor for DCGL, whereas CIT >30 h and AA recipient ethnicity showed only trends toward DCGL. Renal function as determined by serum creatinine levels was significantly higher in recipients of hypertensive compared with non‐hypertensive SCD kidneys at all time points out to 48 months follow‐up and the disparity in renal function increased over time.

Conclusions:  Transplanting SCD kidneys from hypertensive donors is associated with worse graft function and an increased risk of graft loss.
Comparing aortic stiffness in kidney transplant recipients, hemodialysis patients, and patients with chronic renal failure
Authors: Pan Cheng R. , Schmaderer Christoph , Roos Marcel , von Eynatten Maximilian , Sollinger Daniel , Lutz Jens , Heemann Uwe , Baumann Marcus
Published: April 2011

Pan CR, Schmaderer C, Roos M, von Eynatten M, Sollinger D, Lutz J, Heemann U, Baumann M. Comparing aortic stiffness in kidney transplant recipients, hemodialysis patients, and patients with chronic renal failure. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: E463–E468. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  The poor cardiovascular survival of patients with renal insufficiency is improved by transplantation. Carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) is able to predict independently overall and cardiovascular mortality. PWV is elevated in renal insufficiency. Consequently, PWV may change according to the improvement in renal function after kidney transplantation.

Methods:  In a cross‐sectional setting, PWV was determined in 40 renal transplant recipients (RTx) and compared to the PWV of 40 age‐ and gender‐matched patients with comparable renal insufficiency (CKD) and 40 age‐ and gender‐matched hemodialysis patients (HD).

Results:  RTx and CKD patients had comparable eGFR (RTx: 42.9 ± 18.4, CKD: 48.3 ± 29.1 mL/min/1.73 m2) and protein/creatinine ratio (RTx: median 172.5, 25th percentile 97.75, 75th percentile 344.5, CKD: median 183.272, 25th percentile 100.00, 75th percentile 470.00 mg/g creatinine). There was no significant difference in PWV between RTx 3–12 months post‐transplant and CKD or HD patients (RTx: 9.65 ± 1.57, CKD: 9.98 ± 3.91, HD: 10.27 ± 2.89 m/s; n = 20 pairs). Similarly, PWV in transplant patients >12‐month post‐transplant was similar to that of CKD and HD patients (RTx: 9.71 ± 2.23, CKD: 9.36 ± 2.74, HD: 9.84 ± 3.41 m/s; n = 20 pairs).

Discussion:  We could not detect significant differences in PWV comparing RTx with age‐ and gender‐matched CKD patients.
Comparative evaluation of expanded criteria for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma beyond the Milan criteria undergoing living‐related donor liver transplantation
Authors: Shirabe Ken , Taketomi Akinobu , Morita Kazutoyo , Soejima Yuji , Uchiyama Hideaki , Kayashima Hiroto , Ninomiya Mizuki , Toshima Takeo , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: April 2011

Shirabe K, Taketomi A, Morita K, Soejima Y, Uchiyama H, Kayashima H, Ninomiya M, Toshima T, Maehara Y. Comparative evaluation of expanded criteria for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma beyond the Milan criteria undergoing living‐related donor liver transplantation. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: E491–E498. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Objective:  To clarify the predictive impact of expanded criteria for liver transplantation (LT) for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in 54 patients with HCC beyond the Milan criteria (MC) from a series of 109 consecutive living‐related donor liver transplantation (LDLT) recipients with HCC.

Methods:  Among 54 patients with HCC exceeding the MC, the predictive values for HCC recurrence within expanded criteria comprising the UCSF, Tokyo, Kyoto, Kyushu University (based on the tumor size and des‐gamma carboxy prothrombin level) and Up‐to‐seven criteria were compared using univariate and multivariate analyses. The histological characteristics of HCC were compared among these extended criteria.

Results:  All five criteria were significant predictors for recurrence‐free survival after univariate analyses. The Kyushu University criteria were the most powerful predictive criteria for HCC recurrence after multivariate analyses. The incidence of microvascular invasion and poorly differentiated HCC was significantly higher in patients with HCC exceeding the Kyushu University criteria than in those with HCC within the criteria.

Conclusions:  Compared with the other expanded criteria, the Kyushu University criteria may be useful to eliminate LT candidates at very high risk of HCC recurrence. The Kyushu University criteria were useful to evaluate LT candidates with HCC.
Pathways of psychosocial factors, stress, and health outcomes after liver transplantation
Authors: Stilley Carol S. , Flynn William B. , Sereika Susan M. , Stimer Erin D. , DiMartini Andrea F. , deVera Michael E.
Published: April 2011

Stilley CS, Flynn WB, Sereika SM, Stimer ED, DiMartini AF, deVera ME. Pathways of psychosocial factors, stress, and health outcomes after liver transplantation.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01467.x.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  The impact of stress and individual factors on health outcomes in general medicine and transplantation are well documented. Few researchers have investigated the complex relationships between these constructs. This longitudinal study assessed coping style, self‐regulatory ability, hostility, and social support at baseline among a cohort of 130 adult liver transplant recipients at the Starzl Transplant Institute, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and followed those subjects with interview and medical records data about personal and transplant‐related stress, physical and mental health outcomes throughout the first post‐transplant year. Results show a number of strong bidirectional relationships between coping style, self‐regulatory ability, hostility, the caregiver relationship and family environment, personal and transplant‐related stress over the second half of the first post‐transplant year, and health (especially mental) outcomes at 12 months post‐transplant. Stress mediates the relationship between psychosocial factors and mental health outcomes. The importance of those relationships to researchers and clinicians is discussed.
Cystatin C and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin as markers of renal function in pediatric heart transplant recipients
Authors: Abraham Boban P. , Frazier Elizabeth A. , Morrow W. Robert , Blaszak Richard T. , Devarajan Prasad , Mitsnefes Mark , Bryant Janet C. , Sachdeva Ritu
Published: April 2011

Abraham BP, Frazier EA, Morrow WR, Blaszak RT, Devarajan P, Mitsnefes M, Bryant JC, Sachdeva R. Cystatin C and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin as markers of renal function in pediatric heart transplant recipients. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 564–569. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  We hypothesized that use of Schwartz formula underestimates the prevalence of CKD in PHT recipients. This study determined the prevalence and risk factors for CKD in PHT using novel methods‐serum cystatin C, CKiD formula, Revised Schwartz formula, s‐ and u‐NGAL. Serum BUN, creatinine, cystatin C and s‐ and u‐NGAL were measured after prospective enrollment. Schwartz formula GFR was compared with novel methods. CKD was defined as CKiD GFR < 90 mL/min/1.73 m2. The s‐ and u‐NGAL were compared between those with and without CKD. Potential risk factors for CKD were analyzed. Seventy‐nine patients (46 male children or boys), mean age 9.9 ± 5.8 yr formed the study cohort. The prevalence of mild and moderate CKD was 2‐ to 3‐fold higher using novel methods compared to Schwartz formula. u‐NGAL and u‐NGAL/Cr were significantly higher in patients with CKD. u‐ and s‐NGAL had negative correlation with estimates of GFR. Women were at a higher risk for CKD (odds ratio 8.7) as was longer duration since transplant (p = 0.009). In conclusion, use of novel methods of GFR estimation unmasked 2‐ to 3‐fold increased prevalence of CKD in PHT. Women and those with longer duration since transplant are at higher risk for CKD.
Transfusion practices in massive haemorrhage in pre‐intensive and intensive care
Authors: Sinha R. , Roxby D.
Published: April 2011

Background and Objectives  Primary resuscitation for massive haemorrhage often occurs in emergency departments or operating theatres, with ongoing resuscitation in the intensive care unit (ICU). The aim of the study was to retrospectively review transfusion practice in the pre‐ICU phase and ICU for patients with massive haemorrhage.

Materials and Methods  From 1998 to 2006, we developed an electronically linked database of blood and blood product usage and laboratory data with clinical outcome. All patients who received 10 or more units of red cells and required ICU admission were included.

Results  Of 238 patients who required massive transfusion, 40 died early (within 24 h of massive transfusion), out of which 16 died in pre‐ICU and 24 died in ICU. Comparatively this group of patients presented in the pre‐ICU phase and on ICU admission, respectively, with coagulopathy (median international normalized ratio 1·6 and 2·1) and acidosis (median base deficit −11·5 and −14 mmol/l). These patients had median ratios of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) to red blood cells of 1:3·3 and 1:1·3 in the pre‐ICU and ICU phases, respectively. Severity of coagulopathy indicated by INR at ICU admission [P = 0·04; area under receiver operator curve (ROC) = 0·69] and RBC transfused (P = 0·01) in 24 h associated with mortality.

Conclusions  Patients who died early were coagulopathic before and on ICU admission and did not correct their coagulopathy. This study also shows that coagulopathy is associated with an increased risk of mortality. Early and aggressive correction of coagulopathy for patients presenting with coagulopathy may be effective in improving mortality.
Extension of platelet shelf life from 4 to 5 days by implementation of a new screening strategy in Germany
Authors: Sireis W. , Rüster B. , Daiss C. , Hourfar M. K. , Capalbo G. , Pfeiffer H‐U , Janetzko K. , Goebel M. , Kempf V. A. J. , Seifried E. , Schmidt M.
Published: April 2011

Background  The Paul‐Ehrlich‐Institute analysed all fatalities due to bacterial infections between 1997 and 2007. Thereafter, the platelet shelf life was reduced to a maximum of 4 days after blood donation because the majority of all cases of severe transfusion‐transmitted bacterial infections occurred with day 5 platelets. The current study compares the analytical sensitivity and the diagnostic specificity of four rapid bacterial detection procedures.

Methods  Nine transfusion‐relevant bacterial strains were spiked in pooled platelets or apheresis platelets at a low concentration (10 CFU/bag). Samples were collected after day 3, day 4 and day 5 and investigated by four rapid bacterial detection methods (modified BacT/ALERT, Bactiflow, FACS method and 16s DNA PCR methods).

Results  Seven out of nine bacterial strains were adequately detected by BacT/ALERT, Bactiflow and PCR in apheresis platelets and pooled platelets after sample collection at day 3, day 4 and day 5. For three bacterial strains, analytical sensitivity was reduced for the FACS method. Two bacterial strains did not grow under the storage conditions in either pooled or apheresis platelets.

Conclusions  A late sample collection on day 3, day 4 or day 5 after blood donation in combination with a rapid bacterial detection method offers a new opportunity to improve blood safety and reduce errors due to sampling., BacT/ALERT, Bactiflow or 16s ID‐NAT are feasible for late bacterial screening in platelets may provide data which support the extension of platelet shelf life in Germany to 5 days.
Maximization of total genetic variance in breed conservation programmes
Authors: Cervantes I. , Meuwissen T.H.E.
Published: April 2011

The preservation of the maximum genetic diversity in a population is one of the main objectives within a breed conservation programme. We applied the maximum variance total (MVT) method to a unique population in order to maximize the total genetic variance. The function maximization was performed by the annealing algorithm. We have selected the parents and the mating scheme at the same time simply maximizing the total genetic variance (a mate selection problem). The scenario was compared with a scenario of full‐sib lines, a MVT scenario with a rate of inbreeding restriction, and with a minimum coancestry selection scenario. The MVT method produces sublines in a population attaining a similar scheme as the full‐sib sublining that agrees with other authors that the maximum genetic diversity in a population (the lowest overall coancestry) is attained in the long term by subdividing it in as many isolated groups as possible. The application of a restriction on the rate of inbreeding jointly with the MVT method avoids the consequences of inbreeding depression and maintains the effective size at an acceptable minimum. The scenario of minimum coancestry selection gave higher effective size values, but a lower total genetic variance. A maximization of the total genetic variance ensures more genetic variation for extreme traits, which could be useful in case the population needs to adapt to a new environment/production system.
Evaluation of novel semiochemical dispensers simultaneously releasing pear ester and sex pheromone for mating disruption of codling moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: Knight A. L. , Stelinski L. L. , Hebert V. , Gut L. , Light D. , Brunner J.
Published: April 2011

The performance of polyvinyl chloride polymer (PVC) dispensers loaded with two rates of ethyl (E,Z)‐2,4‐decadienoate (pear ester) plus the sex pheromone, (E,E)‐8,10‐dodecadien‐1‐ol (codlemone) of codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.), was compared with similar dispensers and two commercial dispensers (Isomate® and CheckMate®) loaded only with codlemone. Dispenser evaluations were conducted in replicated small (0.1 ha) and large (2 ha) field trials in apple, Malus domestica (Borkhausen), during 2006 (Washington) and 2007 (Michigan, large plot study only). Data recorded included male captures in traps baited with virgin female moths and codlemone lures and direct observations of moth behaviour in treated plots. Volatile air collections of field‐aged dispensers were conducted under laboratory conditions. Disruption of male catch in codlemone‐baited traps was generally similar among dispenser treatments, except for two instances: lower moth catches with the single and dual‐component PVC dispensers, compared with Isomate®, during the first flight in the large plots in Michigan in 2007 and for the dual‐component PVC dispenser compared with the CheckMate® dispenser during the second flight in small plots in Washington in 2006. Levels of fruit injury were similar in large plots treated with all dispensers. Male moth catches in virgin female‐baited traps did not differ among dispenser treatments and were significantly lower than the untreated control. Behavioural observations of adult moths in the field verified anemotactic approaches within 20 cm of pheromone dispensers loaded with and without pear ester that lasted ca. 15 s on average. Field‐aged dual‐component dispensers released pear ester at a >5‐fold higher rate than codlemone over the first 8 weeks and this ratio declined to near unity by 18 weeks.
Effects of leaf damage on oviposition choice in an invasive paropsine beetle
Authors: Horgan F. G.
Published: April 2011

In 2007, an invasive paropsine beetle, Paropsisterna nr. gloriosa Blackburn, caused severe defoliation of Eucalyptus in mixed‐species foliage plantations in south‐west Ireland. At many of the plantations, Eucalyptus parvula L.A.S. Johnson & K.D. Hill was the most heavily damaged species while Eucalyptus pulverulenta Sims was generally resistant to the beetle. However, at the most heavily damaged site beetles moved to feed on E. pulvarulenta presumably during periods when suitable foliage (new leaves) of E. parvula had been severely depleted. The present study examines factors underlying shifts in oviposition from the preferred to non‐preferred host. In choice and no‐choice experiments, P. nr. gloriosa laid more eggs directly on new E. parvula foliage compared with new E. pulverulenta foliage. However, in choice experiments where new E. parvula foliage was unavailable (but old foliage available), more eggs were laid on new E. pulverulenta foliage. The potential for prior feeding damage to stimulate or deter oviposition on either host was also examined. Prior damage to new and old E. parvula leaves increased egg‐laying directly on the damaged foliage; however, prior damage to E. pulverulenta may have inhibited oviposition. The results suggest that in mixed‐species plantations, facilitation of oviposition on preferred hosts through prior feeding damage helps maintain the relative resistance of E. pulverulenta against P. nr. gloriosa, even under high beetle densities. However, the vulnerability of E. pulverulenta will increase where suitable age‐classes of preferred‐host foliage are severely depleted or unavailable.
Population structure and connectivity in the Atlantic scleractinian coral Montastraea cavernosa (Linnaeus, 1767)
Authors: Goodbody‐Gringley Gretchen , Woollacott Robert M. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: April 2011

Coral reefs are increasingly threatened worldwide by a variety of biological and physical factors, including disease, bleaching and ocean acidification. Understanding levels of connectivity among widespread populations can assist in conservation efforts and the design of marine protected areas, as larval dispersal scales affect population demography. This study examined genetic connectivity and morphological variation of the broadcast spawning coral Montastraea cavernosa (L., 1767) among five locations in the Caribbean and Western Atlantic. Analysis of mtDNA and nuclear rRNA internal transcribed spacers, at both the local and regional scale, revealed that the majority of variation existed within locations rather than among them. Likewise, the majority of pairwise comparisons were non‐significant between sites and locations. These results suggest that moderate to high gene flow occurs within and among populations of M. cavernosa in the Western Atlantic. The phylogeographic signature and significant pairwise comparisons among several locations, however, indicate that populations are also partially maintained through self‐seeding and that gene flow may be restricted over large geographic distances. Additionally, while some anatomical variation is likely attributable to phenotypic plasticity, variations in skeletal morphology between Jamaica and other locations correspond with significant pairwise genetic distances and the presence of private sequence types (limited to a single location), suggesting selection to local environmental conditions.
Controlled study on the cognitive and psychological effect of coloring and drawing in mild Alzheimer's disease patients
Authors: Hattori Hideyuki , Hattori Chikako , Hokao Chieko , Mizushima Kumiko , Mase Toru
Published: April 2011

Aim:  Art therapy has been reported to have effects on mental symptoms in patients with dementia, and its usefulness is expected. We performed a controlled trial to evaluate the usefulness of art therapy compared with calculation training in patients with mild Alzheimer's disease.

Methods:  Thirty‐nine patients with Alzheimer's disease showing slightly decreased cognitive function allowing treatment on an outpatient basis were randomly allocated to art therapy and control (learning therapy using calculation) groups, and intervention was performed once weekly for 12 weeks.

Results:  Comparison of the results of evaluation between before and after therapy in each group showed significant improvement in the Apathy Scale in the art therapy group (P = 0.014) and in the Mini‐Mental State Examination score (P = 0.015) in the calculation drill group, but no significant differences in the other items between the two groups. Patients showing a 10% or greater improvement were compared between the two groups. Significant improvement in the quality of life (QOL) was observed in the art therapy compared with the calculation training group (P = 0.038, odds ratio, 5.54). anova concerning improvement after each method revealed no significant difference in any item.

Conclusion:  These results suggested improvement in at least the vitality and the QOL of patients with mild Alzheimer's disease after art therapy compared with calculation, but no marked comprehensive differences between the two methods. In non‐pharmacological therapy for dementia, studies attaching importance to the motivation and satisfaction of patients and their family members rather than the superiority of methods may be necessary in the future. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 431–437.
Coping strategies and adaptation for the disabled elderly in Taiwan
Authors: Hsu Hui‐Chuan , Tung Ho‐Jui
Published: April 2011

Aim:  This study explored the relationship between coping strategies and adaptation difficulties for the disabled elderly.

Methods:  Data were collected during face‐to‐face interviews with the physically disabled elderly in long‐term care institutions and in rehabilitation departments in middle Taiwan. Totally, 505 persons were analyzed. The adaptation to disability was evaluated by health care, domestic environment, family relationships, social life and psychological distress as the dependent variables. Factor analysis and multiple regression models were applied for the analysis.

Results:  Three types of coping strategies were identified: (i) acceptance and action reduced the difficulty in adapting to disability in the health‐care and social life dimensions; (ii) venting and avoidance increased the difficulty in adapting in the health‐care, domestic environment and psychological distress dimensions; and (iii) seeking support was related to greater adapting to difficulty in terms of family relationships.

Conclusion:  More effective coping strategies should be offered to the disabled elderly to help them adapt to their disability. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 488–495.
Intraumbilical injection of three different uterotonics in the management of retained placenta
Authors: Harara Rany , Hanafy Sherif , Zidan Mahmoud Saad Alsayed , Alberry Medhat
Published: April 2011

Aim:  The aim of this work was to compare the effect of intraumbilical injection of three different uterotonic solutions in the management of retained placenta.

Materials and Methods:  This study was conducted in Ain‐Shams University Maternity Hospital, Cairo, Egypt. A total of 78 women with retained placenta (>30 min after delivery of the fetus) were included in the study and subdivided into three groups. Each group was injected with a different type of uterotonic into the umbilical vein after clamping it using the Pipingas technique. Uterotonics used were either 20 IU oxytocin dissolved in 30 mL saline (n = 26), ergometrine 0.2 mg dissolved in 30 mL saline (n = 27) or misoprostol 800 µg dissolved in 30 mL saline (n = 25).

Results:  The overall success rate of spontaneous placental separation within 30 min after intraumbilical injection of uterotonics was 56/78 (71.79%). The success rate was higher with misoprostol when compared to oxytocin and ergometrine but the difference was not significant (20/25 [80%], 19/26 [73.08%], 17/27 [62.96%], respectively, P > 0.05). The injection‐to‐separation interval was significantly shorter in the misoprostol group than in the oxytocin and ergometrine groups (7.0 ± 2.2 min, 13.14 ± 3.76 min, 22.5 ± 4.37 min, respectively, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Intraumbilical injection of uterotonics, namely oxytocin, ergometrine and dissolved misoprostol in saline, are closely effective in the management of retained placenta, with misoprostol being slightly more effective. This method may have a role in minimizing the need for manual removal of the placenta and its adverse sequelae.
Bilateral ovarian squamous cell carcinoma with an antecedent dermoid cyst in the left ovary
Authors: Prasad Sruthi , BV Suguna , Ravindra Savithri
Published: April 2011

Ovarian squamous cell carcinoma is a rare malignancy and its occurrence is commonly attributed to malignant transformation of a pre‐existing mature cystic teratoma. The de novo occurrence of primary squamous cell carcinoma is extremely rare. Malignant transformation in a mature cystic teratoma is almost always unilateral; however, there have been isolated reports of an uncomplicated mature cystic teratoma in the contralateral ovary. We report here a case of a 40‐year‐old woman presenting with squamous cell carcinoma of both ovaries with antecedent dermoid cyst in the left ovary, along with involvement of the fallopian tubes, cervix and omentum.
Methotrexate in local treatment of cervical heterotopic pregnancy with successful perinatal outcome: Case report
Authors: Sijanovic Sinisa , Vidosavljevic Domagoj , Sijanovic Ivanka
Published: April 2011

This case report describes a case of heterotopic cervical ectopic pregnancy in a nulliparous woman that was successfully treated with single‐dose local, intra‐amniotic methotrexate injection in the gestational sac. Pregnancy was achieved spontaneously. The patient had previously undergone hysteroscopic myomectomy. By using local, single‐dose treatment we avoided the continued effects of the drug on the intrauterine pregnancy and the possible adverse effect of systemically applied methotrexate. The treatment resulted in the term vaginal delivery of a healthy child and preserved the patient's fertility for future pregnancies.
Premenstrual disorders in Polish adolescent girls: Prevalence and risk factors
Authors: Drosdzol Agnieszka , Nowosielski Krzysztof , Skrzypulec Violetta , Plinta Ryszard
Published: April 2011

Aim:  The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of premenstrual disorders among Polish adolescent girls.

Material and Methods:  A total of 2500 females from the Upper Silesian region of Poland, aged 16 to 45 years, were eligible for a prospective population‐based study. The subjects were recruited randomly by the regional public opinion research centre. The preliminary study population consisted of 1540 females. Seventy‐two adolescent girls, aged 16 to 19 years, were included in the final analysis. The research was based on a self‐prepared questionnaire containing socio‐economic status, general health, medical and reproductive history, premenstrual symptoms based on American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists criteria for diagnosing premenstrual syndrome as well as American Psychiatric Association criteria for premenstrual dysphoric disorder and patient prospective daily ratings of symptoms.

Results:  The mean age of the studied population was 17.27 ± 0.97 years. In the studied population the majority of the adolescent girls lived in large cities of over 50 000 citizens (54.29%), were physically active declaring daily physical exercise (55.22%) and sexually active (54.17%). Study results indicated that the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder was 76.39% and 4.17%, respectively. The final statistical analysis revealed that only place of residence (large cities) increased the risk of premenstrual syndrome (OR = 3.58; P = 0.01).

Conclusion:  Adolescent females living in urban areas are more vulnerable to premenstrual syndrome. Reproductive, sexual and socio‐economic factors are not significant risk factors for premenstrual syndrome.
Randomized controlled trial of different doses of metformin for ovulation induction in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Weerakiet Sawaek , Sophonsritsuk Areepan , Lertvikool Srithean , Satirapot Chonthicha , Leelaphiwat Supatra , Jultanmas Rattiya
Published: April 2011

Aim:  To compare the efficacy of 1000 mg and 1700 mg of metformin on ovulation induction in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women.

Material and Methods:  A randomized controlled trial was conducted at Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand of 60 PCOS women diagnosed by Rotterdam criteria. Group A (30 women) and B (30 women) received 1000 mg and 1700 mg/day of metformin, respectively. Clomiphen citrate 50–150 mg per day for 5 days was added, if no dominant follicle developed. The main outcome measures were ovulation and pregnancy rates, fasting insulin (FI), testosterone (T), androstenedione (ADD) and DHEAS before and 4 weeks after metformin.

Results:  The ovulation rate did not differ between the groups (84.8% vs 87.7% between groups A and B, P = NS). Most of the women developed one follicle (91% in group A and 88.2% in group B, P = NS). The pregnancy rate in group A (46.4% per woman and 12.4% per ovulatory cycle) did not differ from that in group B (51.9% per woman and 13.2% per ovulatory cycle, P = NS). With regard to dosages, the ovulation rate in PCOS women without insulin resistance (IR) was significantly higher than those with IR. FI, T and ADD were significantly decreased after 4 weeks of metformin in both groups.

Conclusion:  1000 mg of metformin had as high efficacy as 1700 mg on induction of ovulation and pregnancy in PCOS women.
Expression patterns of the steroid receptor coactivator family in human ovarian endometriosis
Authors: Kumagami Atsuko , Ito Akiko , Yoshida‐Komiya Hiromi , Fujimori Keiya , Sato Akira
Published: April 2011

Aim:  Endometriosis is an estrogen‐dependent disease that causes pelvic pain and infertility. In this study, to examine the estrogen‐dependent mechanisms of human endometriosis, we focused on the expression patterns of the steroid receptor coactivator (SRC) family of cofactors for nuclear steroid receptors and estrogen receptor α (ERα).

Material and Methods:  The expression patterns of SRC‐1, transitional intermediary factor 2 (TIF2), SRC‐3, and ERα, were analyzed by immunohistochemistry of normal endometrium and ovarian endometriotic tissue. In addition, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) for the SRCs was performed for ovarian endometriosis.

Results:  SRCs were expressed in all examined tissues. The expression levels of SRC‐1 and the number of SRC‐1‐positive cells in ovarian endometriosis were greater than those of TIF2 and SRC‐3. In addition, immunohistochemistry showed that ERα was colocalized with SRC‐1 in almost all glandular and many stromal cells in ovarian endometriotic tissue.

Conclusion:  The present study demonstrates the expression pattern of SRCs in ovarian endometriosis. It appears that SRC‐1 is predominant among the other SRC family members and colocalizes with ERα. Although further study is needed, SRC‐1 may affect the transcriptional activity of ERα in human ovarian endometriosis.
Unveiling microbial life in new deep‐sea hypersaline Lake Thetis. Part I: Prokaryotes and environmental settings
Authors: La Cono Violetta , Smedile Francesco , Bortoluzzi Giovanni , Arcadi Erika , Maimone Giovanna , Messina Enzo , Borghini Mireno , Oliveri Elvira , Mazzola Salvatore , L'Haridon Stephan , Toffin Laurent , Genovese Lucrezia , Ferrer Manuel , Giuliano Laura , Golyshin Peter N. , Yakimov Michail M.
Published: April 2011

In September 2008, an expedition of the RV Urania was devoted to exploration of the genomic richness of deep hypersaline anoxic lakes (DHALs) located in the Western part of the Mediterranean Ridge. Approximately 40 nautical miles SE from Urania Lake, the presence of anoxic hypersaline lake, which we named Thetis, was confirmed by swath bathymetry profiling and through immediate sampling casts. The brine surface of the Thetis Lake is located at a depth of 3258 m with a thickness of ∼157 m. Brine composition was found to be thalassohaline, saturated by NaCl with a total salinity of 348‰, which is one of highest value reported for DHALs. Similarly to other Mediterranean DHALs, seawater‐brine interface of Thetis represents a steep pycno‐ and chemocline with gradients of salinity, electron donors and acceptors and posseses a remarkable stratification of prokaryotic communities, observed to be more metabolically active in the upper interface where redox gradient was sharper. [14C]‐bicarbonate fixation analysis revealed that microbial communities are sustained by sulfur‐oxidizing chemolithoautotrophic primary producers that thrive within upper interface. Besides microaerophilic autotrophy, heterotrophic sulfate reduction, methanogenesis and anaerobic methane oxidation are likely the predominant processes driving the ecosystem of Thetis Lake.
Cross‐talk between photomixotrophic growth and CO2‐concentrating mechanism inSynechocystissp. strain PCC 6803
Authors: Haimovich‐Dayan Maya , Kahlon Shira , Hihara Yukako , Hagemann Martin , Ogawa Teruo , Ohad Itzhak , Lieman‐Hurwitz Judy , Kaplan Aaron
Published: April 2011

Simultaneous catabolic and anabolic glucose metabolism occurs in the same compartment during photomixotrophic growth of the model cyanobacteriumSynechocystissp. PCC 6803. The presence of glucose is stressful to the cells; it is reflected in the high frequency of suppression mutations in glucose‐sensitive mutants. We show that glucose affects many cellular processes. It stimulates respiration and the rate of photosynthesis and quantum yield in low‐ but not high‐CO2‐grown cells. Fluorescence and thermoluminescence parameters of photosystem II are also affected but the results did not lend support to sustained glucose driven over reduction in the light. Glucose‐sensitive mutants such as ΔpmgA(impaired in photomixotrophic growth) and Δhik31(lacking histidine kinase 31) are far more susceptible under high than low air level of CO2. A glycine to tryptophan mutation in position 354 in NdhF3, involved in the high‐affinity CO2uptake, rescued ΔpmgA. A rise in the apparent photosynthetic affinity to external inorganic carbon is observed in high‐CO2‐grown wild‐type cells after the addition of glucose, but not in mutant ΔpmgA. This is attributed to upregulation of certain low‐CO2‐induced genes, involved in inorganic carbon uptake, in the wild type but not in ΔpmgA. These data uncovered a new level of interaction between CO2fixation (and the CO2‐concentrating mechanism) and photomixotrophic growth in cyanobacteria.
Proteomics of extremophiles
Authors: Burg Dominic , Ng Charmaine , Ting Lily , Cavicchioli Ricardo
Published: April 2011

Functional genomic approaches, such as proteomics, greatly enhance the value of genome sequences by providing a global level assessment of which genes are expressed, when genes are expressed and at what cellular levels gene products are synthesized. With over 1000 complete genome sequences of different microorganisms available, and DNA sequencing for environmental samples (metagenomes) producing vast amounts of gene sequence data, there is a real opportunity and a clear need to generate associated functional genomic data to learn about the source microorganisms. In contrast to the technological advances that have led to the accelerated rate and ease at which DNA sequence data can be generated, mass spectrometry based proteomics remains a technically sophisticated and exacting science. In recognition of the need to make proteomics more accessible to a growing number of environmental microbiologists so that the ‘functional genomics gap’ may be bridged, this review strives to demystify proteomic technologies and describe ways in which they have been applied, and more importantly, can be applied to study the physiology and ecology of extremophiles.
REPUTATION AND EARNINGS: THE ROLES OF QUALITY AND QUANTITY IN ACADEME
Authors: HAMERMESH DANIEL S. , PFANN GERARD A.
Published: April 2011

We examine the determinants of professional reputation. Does quantity of exposures raise reputation independent of quality? Does quality of the most important exposure have extra effects on reputation? In a very large sample of academic economists, there is little evidence that a scholar's most influential work provides any extra enhancement of reputation. Quality rankings matter more than absolute quality. Quantity has a zero or even negative effect on proxies for reputation. Data on salaries, however, show positive effects of quantity independent of quality. We test explanations for the differences between the determinants of reputation and salary. (JEL L14, J31)
MONEY, OUTPUT, AND INFLATION IN THE LONGER TERM: MAJOR INDUSTRIAL COUNTRIES, 1880–2001
Authors: HAUG ALFRED A. , DEWALD WILLIAM G.
Published: April 2011

We study how fluctuations in money growth correlate with fluctuations in real output growth and inflation. Using band‐pass filters, we extract cycles from each time series that last 2–8 (business cycles) and 8–40 (longer‐term cycles) years. We employ annual data, 1880–2001 without gaps, for 11 industrial countries. Fluctuations in money growth do not play a systematic role at business cycle frequencies. However, money growth leads or affects contemporaneously inflation, but not real output growth, in the longer run. Also, formal break tests indicate no structural changes for the longer‐term money growth and inflation relationship, despite changes in policy regimes.(JEL E3)
Agency problems, product market competition and dividend policies in Japan
Authors: He Wen
Published: April 2011

This study investigates whether product market competition reduces agency problems between controlling shareholders and minority shareholders in Japan. In particular, we examine firms’ dividend policies in competitive versus concentrated industries. In a large sample of Japanese firms, we find that firms in more competitive industries pay more dividends, are more likely to increase dividends and are less likely to omit dividends. Furthermore, the impact of firm‐level agency problems on dividend payouts is weaker in highly competitive industries. The results suggest that product market competition can be an effective industry‐level governance mechanism that can force managers to disgorge cash to outside investors.
Order size, order imbalance and the volatility–volume relation in a bull versus a bear market
Authors: Wee Marvin , Yang Joey W.
Published: April 2011

This paper revisits the volume–volatility relationship documented in Chan and Fong (2000) in a bull versus a bear market by using data from the period surrounding the subprime crisis in 2008. The relationship is predicted to be asymmetric because of the greater cost of short positions, the lack of liquidity and the differing trading strategies adopted in a bearish market. Our analysis shows the trading patterns in the bull and bear markets are different. Particularly, in a falling market characterised by higher volatility and lower liquidity, the frequency of order placement has doubled but orders are smaller in size. This provides evidence of investors’ shift of trading strategy in relation to the status change of the market. Furthermore, we find evidence to support the proposition that volume is more informative in a bear market than in a bull market.
RESPONSIBILITIES IN ELDERLY CARE: MR POWELL'S NARRATIVE OF DUTY AND RELATIONS
Authors: ABMA TINEKE , BRUIJN ANNE , KARDOL TINIE , SCHOLS JOS , WIDDERSHOVEN GUY
Published: April 2011

In Western countries a considerable number of older people move to a residential home when their health declines. Institutionalization often results in increased dependence, inactivity and loss of identity or self‐worth (dignity). This raises the moral question as to how older, institutionalized people can remain autonomous as far as continuing to live in line with their own values is concerned. Following Walker's meta‐ethical framework on the assignment of responsibilities, we suggest that instead of directing all older people towards more autonomy in terms of independence, professional caregivers should listen to the life narrative of older people and attempt to find out how their personal identity, relations and values in life can be continued in the new setting. If mutual normative expectations between caregivers and older people are not carefully negotiated, it creates tension. This tension is illustrated by the narrative of Mr Powell, a retired successful public servant now living in a residential home. The narrative describes his current life, his need for help, his independent frame of mind, and his encounters with institutional and professional policies. Mr Powell sees himself as a man who has always cared for himself and others, and who still feels that he has to fulfil certain duties in life. Mr Powell's story shows that he is not always understood well by caregivers who respond from a one‐sided view of autonomy as independence. This leads to misunderstanding and an underestimation of his need to be noticed and involved in the residential community.
FAITH‐BASED INITIATIVES AND THE CHALLENGES OF GOVERNANCE
Authors: BIEBRICHER THOMAS
Published: April 2011

The task of this paper is to offer an analysis of the Faith‐Based and Community Initiative (FBCI) established by George W. Bush and continued under the Obama administration based on a critical and decentred approach to governance (networks). The paper starts out by placing FBCI in the context of the welfare reform of 1996 arguing that both share certain basic assumptions, for example, regarding the nature of poverty, and that FBCI can be interpreted as a response to the relative failure of some aspects of the reform of 1996. In what follows, FBCI is analysed as a typical case of (welfare) state restructuring from government to governance. Emphasis is given to the way discourses and traditions such as communitarianism and public choice have shaped the formation of this new governance arrangement in the field of social service delivery in order to strive for a ‘decentring’ of FBCI by drawing attention to actors' beliefs and worldviews. Finally, I argue that it is not least because of a divergence of such views between policy‐makers and faith‐based organizations that the effect of FBCI remains for the time being limited.
THE REFORM OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION: A PUBLIC MANAGEMENT POLICY CYCLE CASE STUDY
Authors: LEVY ROGER P. , BARZELAY MICHAEL , PORRAS‐GOMEZ ANTONIO‐MARTIN
Published: April 2011

Since the mid‐1990s during the Santer, Prodi, and Barroso presidencies, the European Commission has experienced several public management policy cycles. Included on the Barroso Commission's (2004–2008) policy agenda was the reform of internal financial control, prompted by significant irregularities in budget execution signalled repeatedly by the European Court of Auditors (ECA) in its annual Declaration of Assurance (DAS) and Annual Reports. This led to a declared Barroso Commission strategic objective of achieving a ‘positive DAS' by 2009. The proposed solution was ‘integrated internal control’ based on an international reference point within the accounting and auditing professions. The result was a centrally co‐ordinated Commission project aiming to reform management and audit practices within both the Commission and EU member states. This article reports on the ‘positive DAS' and ‘integrated internal control’ policy cycle and explains its agenda‐setting, alternative‐specification, and decisional processes.
STRATEGIC LINKS IN A CUT‐THROAT WORLD: RETHINKING THE ROLE AND RELATIONSHIPS OF AUSTRALIAN MINISTERIAL STAFF
Authors: MALEY MARIA
Published: April 2011

Ministerial staff relationships form part of the networks within the core executive. This article uses data from a comprehensive empirical study of Australian ministerial staff to explore advisers' horizontal relationships with each other. It finds that the interactions between Australian ministerial advisers are a key part of their role, are highly valued by ministers and public servants, and are an important element of the cabinet system. The informal links and networks between partisan advisers are underpinned by commonly understood norms of behaviour and a clear power structure. This partisan arena of the core executive has become important to ministers and the collective functioning of government.
THE IMPACT OF FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ON WHITEHALL
Authors: HAZELL ROBERT , GLOVER MARK
Published: April 2011

This article examines whether the UK Freedom of Information Act 2000 has changed Whitehall. Based on a two‐year, ESRC‐funded study, it evaluates the impact of FOI on five characteristics of the Whitehall model: the culture of secrecy, ministerial accountability to Parliament, civil service neutrality, the Cabinet system, and effective government. Proponents of FOI hoped that government would be less secretive, more accountable and more effective; critics feared that civil servants would lose their anonymity, and collective Cabinet responsibility would be undermined. Drawing on interviews, media analysis, case law and official documents, the article finds that the impact of FOI is modest at most. It is not powerful enough to do much good or much ill, and the feared ‘chilling effect' on candour and record‐keeping has not materialized. Leaks do more damage than FOI disclosures. But ministers remain apprehensive about the effect of FOI on Cabinet records and discussions.