bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron Deficiency Thrombocytopenia: A Case Report
Authors: Shah Binay Kumar , Shah Tara
Published: July 2011

Objective: To describe a rare case of thrombocytopenia secondary to iron deficiency. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 34-year-old woman presented with severe microcytic hypochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Her ferritin was 1 ng/dl. A diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia and thrombocytopenia was made and the patient was treated with packed red blood cell transfusion and intravenous iron. Thrombocytopenia rapidly improved to normal. Conclusion: This case showed that iron deficiency should be considered as a cause of thrombocytopenia in the appropriate setting after ruling out common causes.
A 13-bp Deletion in the 3′ Untranslated Region of the β-Globin Gene Causes β-Thalassemia Major in Compound Heterozygosity with IVSII-1 Mutation
Authors: Hamid Mohammad , Akbari Mohammad Taghi
Published: July 2011

Objective: To describe hematological and molecular features of a 13-bp deletion in the 3′ untranslated region(3′ UTR) of the β-globin gene in carrier individuals and a compound heterozygous patient. Subjects and Methods: Five members of an Iranian family of Persian ethnic origin were studied. Red blood cell indices and hemoglobin analysis were carried out according to standard methods. Genomic DNA was obtained from peripheral blood cells by salting-out procedures. β-Globin gene amplification and DNA sequencing were performed. Results: One patient had a 13-bp deletion in the 3′ UTR of the β-globin gene that causes the β-thalassemia phenotype in combination with the IVSII-1 (G→A) mutation. The patient had inherited the IVSII-1 (G→A) mutation from his mother, while the second β-globin gene (inherited paternally) had a 13-bp deletion at nucleotide 90 downstream of the termination codon (CD +90 del 13 bp).The patient’s father and paternal grandmother, who are carriers of this deletion, had no hematological abnormalities. Conclusion: This case showed a patient with a 13-bp deletion in the 3′ UTR of β-globin gene that could cause a slight decrease in the stability of the mRNA, but did not have a hematological effect in the heterozygotes. The 13-bp deletion could be clinically important only in situations where β-chain synthesis in trans is compromised.
Impact of Being Placed at Risk of Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease: A Qualitative Study of Blood Donors to Variant CJD Cases and Patients Potentially Surgically Exposed to CJD
Authors: Elam Gillian , Oakley Katie , Connor Nicky , Hewitt Patricia , Ward Hester J.T. , Zaman Syed M.A. , Chow Yimmy , Marteau Theresa M.
Published: July 2011

Background: The study objective was to describe the emotional and behavioural responses to Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) risk notification. Methods: A qualitative study using 11 participants’ interviews, which were analysed thematically with Framework Analysis. Participants: Six participants purposively selected from people exposed to surgical instruments used previously on patients with or at risk of CJD (any type; n = 60), and 5 participants from a cohort of blood donors to patients who subsequently developed variant CJD (n = 110). Results: Notification was initially a shocking event, but with no lasting emotional impact. Those notified were convinced they were at extremely low risk of CJD and coped by not thinking about the information. Disclosure outside the immediate family was limited by fears of stigma. All expressed concern about the possibility of onward transmission and agreed notification was appropriate. Individual adherence to public health precautions varied from those who did nothing, apart from not donating blood, to those who consistently followed all advice given. This variation was informed by an assumption that information was always shared among health professionals. Conclusions: Factors contributing to minimising emotional distress following notification of CJD risk were evident. We found little evidence of sustained emotional distress. However, implementation of behaviours to minimise onward transmission, particularly in health care settings, was variable – this requires further investigation.
Primary Systemic Amyloidosis Presenting as Constrictive Pericarditis
Authors: Singh Vikas , Fishman Joel E. , Alfonso Carlos E.
Published: July 2011

The most frequent presentation of cardiac amyloidosis is with endomyocardial deposition, and resultant restrictive cardiomyopathy. We present a case of primary systemic amyloidosis causing constrictive pericarditis (CP) and congestive heart failure without clinical evidence of endomyocardial deposition. A comprehensive evaluation by noninvasive and invasive studies facilitated the differentiation of CP from restrictive cardiomyopathy and the patient was effectively treated with pericardectomy. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of primary systemic amyloidosis causing selective CP with successful antemortem diagnosis and treatment in a young man.
Sensitivity to Lovastatin of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strains Deleted for Pleiotropic Drug Resistance (PDR) Genes
Authors: Formenti Luca Riccardo , Kielland-Brandt Morten C.
Published: July 2011

The use of statins is well established in human therapy, and model organisms such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae are commonly used in studies of drug action at molecular and cellular levels. The investigation of the resistance mechanisms towards statins may suggest new approaches to improve therapy based on the use of statins. We investigated the susceptibility to lovastatin of S. cerevisiae strains deleted for PDR genes, responsible for exporting hydrophobic and amphiphilic drugs, such as lovastatin. Strains deleted for the genes tested, PDR1, PDR3, PDR5 and SNQ2, exhibited remarkably different phenotypes, with deletion of PDR5 causing the highest sensitivity to lovastatin. The study helped clarifying which pdr mutants to use in studies of physiological actions of statins in yeast.
Elevated Levels of N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide in Patients with Chronic Dyspnea and Moderate Renal Dysfunction: Decreased Clearance or Increased Cardiac Stress
Authors: Wieshammer Siegfried , Dreyhaupt Jens , Basler Beate
Published: July 2011

Background/Aims: Serum levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) are often increased in patients with impaired renal function. The objective of this study was to investigate whether the increase in NT-proBNP is predominantly due to a reduced renal clearance or an increased cardiac secretion. Methods: A series of 697 outpatients (age: 57.5 ± 16.4 years) referred for evaluation of dyspnea were assigned to 4 groups according to their estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR (ml/min per 1.73 m2)]: group 1, eGFR <60 (n = 77); group 2, eGFR ≧60 to <75 (n = 139); group 3, eGFR ≧75 to <90 (n = 191), and group 4, eGFR ≧90 (n = 289). The patients were also grouped into 2 categories based on the presence (n = 176) or absence (n = 521) of heart disease. Results: In patients with heart disease, the adjusted values for NT-proBNP were higher in eGFR group 1 than in eGFR groups 2–4 (p ≤ 0.01). In patients without heart disease, eGFR group 1 membership had no effect on NT-proBNP. Conclusion: A reduced renal clearance does not explain increased NT-proBNP levels in patients with moderate renal impairment and dyspnea. Our data suggest that a moderate reduction in renal function places additional stress on the heart in patients with established cardiac disease.
Iron Overload Decreases Ca
V
1.3-Dependent L-Type Ca
2+
Currents Leading to Bradycardia, Altered Electrical Conduction, and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Rose Robert A. , Sellan Michael , Simpson Jeremy A. , Izaddoustdar Farzad , Cifelli Carlo , Panama Brian K. , Davis Mark , Zhao Dongling , Markhani Moniba , Murphy Geoffrey G. , Striessnig Joerg , Liu Peter P. , Heximer Scott P. , Backx Peter H.
Published: July 2011

Background—

Chronic iron overload (CIO) is associated with blood disorders such as thalassemias and hemochromatosis. A major prognostic indicator of survival in patients with CIO is iron-mediated cardiomyopathy characterized by contractile dysfunction and electrical disturbances, including slow heart rate (bradycardia) and heart block.

Methods and Results—

We used a mouse model of CIO to investigate the effects of iron on sinoatrial node (SAN) function. As in humans, CIO reduced heart rate (≈20%) in conscious mice as well as in anesthetized mice with autonomic nervous system blockade and in isolated Langendorff-perfused mouse hearts, suggesting that bradycardia originates from altered intrinsic SAN pacemaker function. Indeed, spontaneous action potential frequencies in SAN myocytes with CIO were reduced in association with decreased L-type Ca
2+
current (I
Ca,L
) densities and positive (rightward) voltage shifts in I
Ca,L
activation. Pacemaker current (I
f
) was not affected by CIO. Because I
Ca,L
in SAN myocytes (as well as in atrial and conducting system myocytes) activates at relatively negative potentials due to the presence of Ca
V
1.3 channels (in addition to Ca
V
1.2 channels), our data suggest that elevated iron preferentially suppresses Ca
V
1.3 channel function. Consistent with this suggestion, CIO reduced Ca
V
1.3 mRNA levels by ≈40% in atrial tissue (containing SAN) and did not lower heart rate in Ca
V
1.3 knockout mice. CIO also induced PR-interval prolongation, heart block, and atrial fibrillation, conditions also seen in Ca
V
1.3 knockout mice.

Conclusions—

Our results demonstrate that CIO selectively reduces Ca
V
1.3-mediated I
Ca,L
, leading to bradycardia, slowing of electrical conduction, and atrial fibrillation as seen in patients with iron overload.
Success of Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation in Isolated Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction
Authors: Cha Yong-Mei , Wokhlu Anita , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Shen Win-Kuang , Friedman Paul A. , Munger Thomas M. , Oh Jae K. , Monahan Kristi H. , Haroldson Janis M. , Hodge David O. , Herges Regina M. , Hammill Stephen C. , Packer Douglas L.
Published: July 2011

Background—

The efficacy of radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction and isolated diastolic dysfunction is uncertain.

Methods and Results—

A prospective cohort of patients with normal and abnormal LV function underwent ablation for antiarrhythmic drug (AAD)-refractory AF. Three groups were compared: 111 patients with systolic dysfunction, defined as LV ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤40%; 157 patients with isolated diastolic dysfunction but preserved LVEF ≥50%; and 100 patients with normal LV function. The primary end point was AAD-free AF elimination at 1 year after ablation. This end point was achieved in 62% of patients with systolic dysfunction, 75% of those with diastolic dysfunction, and 84% of controls (
P
=0.007). AF control on or off AADs was achieved in 76% of patients with systolic dysfunction, 85% of those with diastolic dysfunction, and 89% of controls (
P
=0.08). In the systolic dysfunction group, 49% experienced an increase in LVEF by ≥5% after ablation, of which 64% achieved normal LVEF. In the diastolic dysfunction group, 30% of patients demonstrated at least 1 grade improvement in diastolic dysfunction. Multivariable analysis demonstrated an increased relative risk of arrhythmia recurrence of 1.8 (95% CI, 1.1 to 3.1;
P
=0.02) in systolic dysfunction and 1.7 (1.0 to 2.7;
P
=0.04) in isolated diastolic dysfunction compared with normal function.

Conclusions—

Although an ablative approach for AF in patients with systolic or diastolic dysfunction is associated with an increased long-term recurrence risk, there is potential for substantial quality-of-life improvement and LV functional benefit.
Insulin Receptor Substrate 1 Gene Variation Modifies Insulin Resistance Response to Weight-Loss Diets in a 2-Year Randomized Trial
Authors: Qi Qibin , Bray George A. , Smith Steven R. , Hu Frank B. , Sacks Frank M. , Qi Lu
Published: July 2011

Background—

Common genetic variants in the insulin receptor substrate 1 (
IRS1
) gene have been recently associated with insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia. We examined whether the best-associated variant modifies the long-term changes in insulin resistance and body weight in response to weight-loss diets in Preventing Overweight Using Novel Dietary Strategies (POUNDS LOST) trial.

Methods and Results—

We genotyped
IRS1
rs2943641 in 738 overweight adults (61% were women) who were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 diets varying in macronutrient contents for 2 years. We assessed the progress in fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and weight loss by genotypes. At 6 months, participants with the risk-conferring CC genotype had greater decreases in insulin (
P
=0.009), HOMA-IR (
P
=0.015), and weight loss (
P
=0.018) than those without this genotype in the highest-carbohydrate diet group whereas an opposite genotype effect on changes in insulin and HOMA-IR (
P
≤0.05) was observed in participants assigned to the lowest-carbohydrate diet group. No significant differences were observed across genotypes in the other 2 diet groups. The tests for genotype by intervention interactions were all significant (
P
<0.05). At 2 years, the genotype effect on changes in insulin and HOMA-IR remained significant in the highest-carbohydrate diet group (
P
<0.05). The highest carbohydrate diet led to a greater improvement of insulin and HOMA-IR (
P
for genotype–time interaction ≤0.009) in participants with the CC genotype than those without this genotype across 2-year intervention.

Conclusions—

Individuals with the
IRS1
rs2943641 CC genotype might obtain more benefits in weight loss and improvement of insulin resistance than those without this genotype by choosing a high-carbohydrate and low-fat diet.

Clinical Trial Registration—

http:www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00072995.
Intralipid Prevents and Rescues Fatal Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension and Right Ventricular Failure in Rats
Authors: Umar Soban , Nadadur Rangarajan D. , Li Jingyuan , Maltese Federica , Partownavid Parisa , van der Laarse Arnoud , Eghbali Mansoureh
Published: July 2011

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by pulmonary vascular remodeling leading to right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy and failure. Intralipid (ILP), a source of parenteral nutrition for patients, contains γ-linolenic acid and soy-derived phytoestrogens that are protective for lungs and heart. We, therefore, investigated the therapeutic potential of ILP in preventing and rescuing monocrotaline-induced PAH and RV dysfunction. PAH was induced in male rats with monocrotaline (60 mg/kg). Rats then received daily ILP (1 mL of 20% ILP per day IP) from day 1 to day 30 for prevention protocol or from day 21 to day 30 for rescue protocol. Other monocrotaline-injected rats were left untreated to develop severe PAH by day 21 or RV failure by approximately day 30. Saline or ILP-treated rats served as controls. Significant increase in RV pressure and decrease in RV ejection fraction in the RV failure group resulted in high mortality. Therapy with ILP resulted in 100% survival and prevented PAH-induced RV failure by preserving RV pressure and RV ejection fraction and preventing RV hypertrophy and lung remodeling. In preexisting severe PAH, ILP attenuated most lung and RV abnormalities. The beneficial effects of ILP in PAH seem to result from the interplay of various factors, among which preservation and/or stimulation of angiogenesis, suppression and/or reversal of inflammation, fibrosis and hypertrophy, in both lung and RV, appear to be major contributors. In conclusion, ILP not only prevents the development of PAH and RV failure but also rescues preexisting severe PAH.
Physical Fidelity Versus Cognitive Fidelity Training in Procedural Skills Acquisition
Authors: Hochmitz Ilanit , Yuviler-Gavish Nirit
Published: July 2011

Objective: The current study examined whether training simulators for the acquisition of procedural skills should emphasize physical fidelity or cognitive fidelity of the task.

Background: Simulation-based training for acquiring and practicing procedural skills is becoming widely established. Generally speaking, these simulators offer technological sophistication but disregard theory-based design, leaving unanswered the question of what task features should be represented in the simulators. The authors compared real-world training and two alternative virtual trainers, one emphasizing physical fidelity and the other cognitive fidelity of the task.

Method: Participants were randomly assigned to one of four training groups in a LEGO® assembly task: virtual-physical fidelity, cognitive fidelity, real world, and control. A posttraining test to assess the development of procedural skills was conducted.

Results: Both the virtual-physical fidelity and cognitive fidelity training methods produced better performance time than no training at all, as did the real-world training. The cognitive fidelity training was inferior in terms of test time compared to the real-world training, whereas the virtual-physical fidelity training was not. In contrast, only the real-world and the cognitive fidelity groups, and not the virtual-physical fidelity group, required significantly less time than the control group for error correction.

Conclusion: The two training methods have complementary advantages.

Application: Combining physical fidelity and cognitive training methods can enhance procedural skills acquisition when real-world training is not practicable.
Waterproof and breathable properties of nanoweb applied clothing
Authors: Hae Wook Ahn  , Chung Hee Park  , Seung Eun Chung
Published: July 2011

This study compared the waterproof and breathable properties of clothing made from an electrospun nanoweb with those made from a conventional waterproof-breathable fabric, in order to determine the optimal environment for using electrospun nanoweb laminate with the most favorable performance for outdoor clothing. The water resistance and water vapor transmittance of the fabrics were evaluated under a range of conditions that simulate the clothing microclimate. In addition, the clothing microclimate and subjective sensations were examined under normal and rainy atmospheric conditions. The results showed that the nanoweb laminate had a higher water vapor transmission rate but lower water resistance than the polytetrafluoroethylene laminate. Results from the water penetration tests however suggest that water resistance may be sufficient to prevent wetting by rain. The wearing test revealed that nanoweb laminated clothing provided a more comfortable clothing-microclimate than polytetrafluoroethylene laminated clothing in a normal, warm environment similar to that when the wearer is exercising or sweating. In the rainy test conditions, no difference was observed between the polytetrafluoroethylene and the nanoweb laminated clothing in any of the measured variables.
Antibacterial activity of PA6/ZnO nanocomposite fibers
Authors: Dural Erem Aysin , Ozcan Gulay , Skrifvars Mikael
Published: July 2011

In this study, ZnO-loaded PA6 nanocomposite preparation and its antibacterial activity are investigated. This work aims to study the effect of the sizes and amount of the ZnO nanofiller on the antibacterial, mechanical, and thermal properties of the PA6/ZnO nanocomposites. The melt intercalation method is applied to prepare polyamide 6 (PA6) nanocomposite fibers, including 0, 0.5, 1, 3, 5 wt % zinc oxide (ZnO), using a laboratory-scale compounder. The antibacterial activity of the fibers against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) as a gram positive bacterium and Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 4352) as a gram negative bacterium is determined according to ASTM E 2149-0. Mechanical and thermal characterization tests are performed according to relevant standards (ASTM D7426-08, ASTM E1131-08, ASTM D3822-07; DSC, TGA, tensile tests). It is found that the dispersion of the ZnO particles within the PA6 matrix is homogenous according to scanning electron microscopy results. Antibacterial activity tests show that PA6/ZnO nanocomposite fibers exhibit antibacterial efficiency related to their nanoparticle contents. An increase in the amount of nanoparticles causes an increase of the antibacterial activity of the fibers. On the other hand, mechanical and thermal characterization tests show that the addition of ZnO nanoparticles does not affect the strength and thermal properties of the nanocomposites for these loadings.
An intelligent model for detecting and classifying color-textured fabric defects using genetic algorithms and the Elman neural network
Authors: Zhang YH , Yuen CWM , Wong WK , Kan Chi-wai
Published: July 2011

In this paper, an intelligent color-textured fabric defect detection and classification model using genetic algorithms and the Elman neural network is introduced. A color ring projection is used for image processing, and the solution for optimization of parameters is based on the genetic algorithm method. The new modified Elman network is proposed to classify the type of fabric defects, which have proportional, integral, and derivative properties. The proposed inspecting model in this study is more feasible and applicable in fabric and stitching garment defect detection and classification.
Development of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in direct, non-destructive, and rapid determination of cotton fiber maturity
Authors: Yongliang Liu  , Thibodeaux Devron , Gamble Gary
Published: July 2011

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra of seed and lint cottons were collected to explore the potential for the discrimination of immature cottons from mature ones and also for the determination of actual cotton maturity. Spectral features of immature and mature cottons revealed large differences in the 900—1200 cm1 region, and such spectral distinctions formed the basis on which to develop a simple three-band ratio algorithm for classification analysis. Next, an additional formula was created to assess the degree of cotton fiber maturity by converting the three-band ratios into an appropriate FTIR maturity (MIR) index. Furthermore, the MIR index was compared with parameters derived from traditional image analysis (IA) and advanced fiber information system (AFIS) measurements. Results indicated strong correlations (R2 > 0.89) between MIR and M AFIS and between MIR and MIA among either International Cotton Calibration standards or selected cotton maturity references. On the other hand, low correlations between the pairs were observed among regular cotton fibers, which likely resulted from the heterogeneous distribution of structural, physical, and chemical characteristics in cotton fibers and subsequent different sampling specimens for individual and independent measurement.
Expanding the Utility of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) process bleaching
Authors: Cardamone Jeanette M
Published: July 2011

The Agricultural Research Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture conducts research on agricultural products and co-products where wool is a co-product of the American lamb industry. The ARS process, an alternative to conventional peroxide for bleaching and chlorination for shrinkproofing wool, was applied to bleach and control the dimensions of wool, wool/cotton, cotton, and viscose rayon fabrics. Conventional processes for bleaching and shrinkage control have limited economy due to high temperatures and long exposures, and their ecological acceptance is marginal. The ARS process is chemo-enzymatic with bleaching followed by biopolishing with shrinkproofing, both steps being applied at near-room-temperature conditions for 30—40 minutes to reach high levels of whiteness, softness, and dimensional stability. The novelty of the process involves the in situ formation of a hyper-peroxide bleach to achieve high whiteness with subsequent enzyme processing from a fresh bath to selectively treat only the surface scales of wool without damage to the inner cortex of the fiber. The Whiteness Index (WI) of wool and wool/cotton improved 63%—72% after bleaching alone and another ~2% increase after enzyme treatment; area shrinkage was less than 2%. The WI of cotton print cloth improved 60.5% by ARS bleaching compared to 64% by conventional bleaching. The process limited shrinkage of cotton knit to 4% and to less than 2% for cotton and viscose woven fabrics. The mechanical properties of all treated fabrics were retained. In a separate study, the process was applied at high concentration to convert wool jersey into parchmentized jersey with permanent stiffness and 45.5% increase in sheerness, as determined digital image analysis. ARS novel bleaching is a sustainable, facile, effective process for low-temperature bleaching with low energy consumption and low environmental impact. Wool jersey with sheerness, stiffness, and strength retention can be fabricated by treatment with highly concentrated ARS hyper-peroxide bleach.
Transplanar and in-plane wicking effects in sock materials under pressure
Authors: Rossi Rene M , Stämpfli Rolf , Psikuta Agnes , Rechsteiner Ivo , Brühwiler Paul A
Published: July 2011

The moisture transfer and absorption properties of fabrics play an important role in the evaluation of the overall wear comfort of the textile. The location of moisture in the textile influences the skin wetness as well as the skin/textile friction process. In this study, we used X-ray tomography to analyze the transplanar and in-plane water transport in different sock materials when two defined pressures were applied to the inner side by means of an adjustable screw. The materials used were polyamide, polypropylene and wool, and had very distinct hydrophilic/hydrophobic and hygroscopic properties. The in-plane wicking effect showed a clear time dependency for the polyamide and wool samples, while the spreading of the polypropylene samples was very scattered. This effect was generally larger in the outer side of the sock than in the inner side, showing a clear tendency of these socks to wick the moisture away from the skin. Applying a pressure generally increased the in-plane water transport, but it affected the water distribution throughout the thickness of the sock for the wool samples, as more water remained in the inner half. The transplanar wicking effect was the most efficient with the polypropylene sock under the high pressure condition, but with the low pressure, this sock was not able to absorb all the moisture and a small quantity of water remained at its inner surface. X-ray tomography was shown to be a powerful tool to analyze not only the water distribution in static conditions, but also the transient 3-dimensional water transport.
Contrarian Share Price Reactions to Earnings Surprises
Authors: Johnson W. Bruce , Zhao Rong
Published: July 2011

A persistent (but overlooked) feature of the cross-sectional distribution of quarterly earnings announcement returns is that the measured earnings surprise and share price response to that surprise are often in the opposite direction. Extending the study by Kinney, Burgstahler, and Martin, this study provides evidence on the prevalence, determinants, and consequences of contrarian stock returns at the earnings announcement date. Using the most recent Institutional Brokers’ Estimate System (I/B/E/S) consensus earnings per share forecast as the earnings benchmark, the authors find that contrarian returns occur for roughly 40% of the more than 230,000 quarterly earnings announcements that comprise their sample. Contrarian returns are only slightly less prevalent in extreme earnings surprise deciles and are evident each quarter during 1985-2005. The incidence of contrarian returns is statistically related to “noise” in the measured earnings surprise (stale I/B/E/S consensus forecasts, preannouncement stock returns, and the presence of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles [GAAP] exclusions) and “noise” in the share price response to announced earnings (discordant revenue changes, discordant earnings forecast revisions, return volatility, bid-ask spread, and discordant prior quarter earnings surprises). Finally, contrarian stocks exhibit little post-earnings-announcement drift.
Delayed Adverse Effects of Neonatal Exposure to Diethylstilbestrol and Their Dose Dependency in Female Rats
Authors: Yoshida Midori , Takahashi Miwa , Inoue Kaoru , Hayashi Seigo , Maekawa Akihiko , Nishikawa Akiyoshi
Published: July 2011

Neonatal exposure to estrogenic chemicals causes irreversible complex damage to the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal axis and reproductive system in females. Some lesions are noted after maturation as delayed adverse effects. We investigated the characteristics and dose dependence of delayed effects using female rats neonatally exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES). Female Donryu rats were subcutaneously injected with a single dose of DES of 0 (control), 0.15, 1.5, 15, 150, or 1,500 µg/kg bw after birth. All except the lowest dose had estrogenic activity in a uterotrophic assay. All rats at 1500 µg/kg and some at 150 µg/kg showed abnormal morphologies in the genital tract, indicating they were androgenized before maturation. Although no morphological abnormalities were noted at 15 µg/kg or lower, onset of persistent estrus was significantly accelerated in the 1.5, 15, and 150 µg/kg groups with dose dependency, and the latest onset was from seventeen to twenty-one weeks of age at 1.5 µg/kg. The neonatal exposure to DES increased uterine adenocarcinoma development only at 150 µg/kg, although uterine anomalies were detected at 1,500 µg/kg. These results indicate that neonatal exposure to DES, which exerts estrogenic activity in vivo, induces delayed adverse effects in female rats in a dose-dependent manner. Early onset of persistent estrus appears to be the most sensitive parameter.
Outcome of Treating Airway Compromise due to Bronchial Stenosis with Intralesional Corticosteroids and Cutting‐Balloon Bronchoplasty
Authors: Nouraei S. A. Reza , Mills Heide , Butler Colin R. , Ghufoor Khalid , Sandhu Guri S. , George P. Jeremy
Published: July 2011

Objectives

To determine the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of treating benign bronchial stenosis with laryngoscopy, jet ventilation, intralesional corticosteroids, and cutting‐balloon bronchoplasty.

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection.

Setting

National airway unit.

Subjects and Methods

Ten adult patients with bronchial stenosis caused by Wegener’s granulomatosis (n = 6), tuberculosis (n = 2), intubation (n = 1), and photodynamic therapy (n = 1) who underwent bronchoplasty using cutting‐balloon dilation via suspension laryngoscopy in 2009. Information about patient demography, etiology, lesion characteristics, and details of the interventions were recorded. Patients underwent spirometry before surgery and at last follow‐up. Chest infection rate in the 6 months before bronchoplasty and from bronchoplasty to the last follow‐up was ascertained.

Results

There were 3 men and 7 women. Mean age at bronchoplasty was 46 ± 20 years. Length of stay was 1 day in all cases, and no treatment‐related complications occurred. One patient required a second bronchoplasty at 55 days. Mean follow‐up was 7 ± 2.3 months. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second increased from a prebronchoplasty mean of 1.6 ± 0.6 to 2.2 ± 0.5 at last follow‐up (P <. 0001; paired Student t test). Forced vital capacity rose from 2.7 ± 0.6 to 3.1 ± 0.6 (P =. 02), and peak expiratory flow rate increased from 3.7 ± 0.8 to 5.0 ± 0.8 (P <. 0001). Chest infection rate fell from an average of 0.7 ± 0.3 infections per month to 0.2 ± 0.2 (P <. 003; paired Student t test).

Conclusion

Cutting‐balloon bronchoplasty via suspension laryngoscopy is an effective treatment for benign bronchial stenosis. It is safer than airway stenting and is less invasive than thoracotomy. The authors propose its use as first‐line treatment for this condition.
Attrition in Otolaryngology Residency
Authors: Prager Jeremy D. , Myer Charles M. , Myer Charles M.
Published: July 2011

Attrition is a disruptive problem in residency training programs. Resident attrition has been more thoroughly investigated and reported in other medical fields with limited data specific to otolaryngology. Using a Web‐based survey of otolaryngology residency program directors, information regarding a 5‐year cohort of residents was collected. The survey response rate was 61% (59 of 97 programs), representing 779 of 1239 training positions (63%). Forty‐two percent of responding programs (25 of 59) lost a total of 47 residents (range, 1‐7; mode 1). The overall attrition rate was 6% for the 5‐year cohort (47 of 779) or 1.2% annually. Involuntary attrition affected 6 residents. Eighteen residents voluntarily left for other medical programs. Four left medicine entirely. The remaining 19 residents’ career paths were not described. Attrition within otolaryngology occurs with less frequency than general surgery and is likely comparable to other surgical subspecialties.
Dysphagia after Nonsurgical Head and Neck Cancer Treatment
Authors: Wilson Janet A. , Carding Paul N. , Patterson Joanne M.
Published: July 2011

Objective

Assess patients’ perspectives on the severity, time course, and relative importance of swallowing deficit before and after (chemo)radiotherapy for head and neck cancer.

Study Design

Before‐and‐after cohort study.

Setting

Head and neck cancer UK multidisciplinary clinic.

Subjects and Methods

A total of 167 patients with a primary cancer, mostly laryngopharyngeal, completed the MD Anderson Dysphagia Index (MDADI) and the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UWQOL) before treatment and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Pretreatment swallowing, age, gender, and tumor site and stage were assessed. Statistical methods used were Mann‐Whitney, analysis of variance, and logistic regression.

Results

There was a sharp deterioration in swallowing on average by 18%, from before treatment to 3 months post treatment (mean difference in MDADI score = 14.5; P <. 001). Treatment schedule, pretreatment score, and age accounted for 37% of the variance in 3‐month posttreatment MDADI scores. There was then little improvement from 3 to 12 months. Patients treated with only 50‐Gy radiotherapy reported significantly less dysphagia at 1 year than patients receiving higher doses or combined chemoradiation (P <. 001). Swallowing was the most commonly prioritized of the 12 UWQOL domains both before and after therapy. The MDADI and UWQOL scores were strongly correlated: ρ > 0.69.

Conclusion

Swallowing is a top priority before and after treatment for the vast majority of patients with head and neck cancer. Swallowing deteriorates significantly posttreatment (P <. 001). Treatment intensity, younger age, and lower pretreatment scores predict long‐term dysphagia. After chemoradiation, there is little improvement from 3 to 12 months.
Congenital Hydrocephalus in Genetically Engineered Mice
Authors: Vogel P. , Read R. W. , Hansen G. M. , Payne B. J. , Small D. , Sands A. T. , Zambrowicz B. P.
Published: July 2011

There is evidence that genetic factors play a role in the complex multifactorial pathogenesis of hydrocephalus. Identification of the genes involved in the development of this neurologic disorder in animal models may elucidate factors responsible for the excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in hydrocephalic humans. The authors report here a brief summary of findings from 12 lines of genetically engineered mice that presented with autosomal recessive congenital hydrocephalus. This study illustrates the value of knockout mice in identifying genetic factors involved in the development of congenital hydrocephalus. Findings suggest that dysfunctional motile cilia represent the underlying pathogenetic mechanism in 8 of the 12 lines ( Ulk4, Nme5, Nme7, Kif27, Stk36, Dpcd, Ak7, and Ak8). The likely underlying cause in the remaining 4 lines ( RIKEN 4930444A02, Celsr2, Mboat7, and transgenic FZD3) was not determined, but it is possible that some of these could also have ciliary defects. For example, the cerebellar malformations observed in RIKEN 4930444A02 knockout mice show similarities to a number of developmental disorders, such as Joubert, Meckel-Gruber, and Bardet-Biedl syndromes, which involve mutations in cilia-related genes. Even though the direct relevance of mouse models to hydrocephalus in humans remains uncertain, the high prevalence of familial patterns of inheritance for congenital hydrocephalus in humans suggests that identification of genes responsible for development of hydrocephalus in mice may lead to the identification of homologous modifier genes and susceptibility alleles in humans. Also, characterization of mouse models can enhance understanding of important cell signaling and developmental pathways involved in the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus.
Industrial hazardous waste treatment featuring a rotary kiln and grate furnace incinerator: a case study in China
Authors: Ma Pan , Ma Zengyi , Yan Jianhua , Chi Yong , Ni Mingjiang , Cen Kefa
Published: July 2011

As one of the fastest developing countries, China is facing severe problems concerning hazardous waste treatment and disposal. This paper presents a new incineration technology and demonstration project in eastern China. The incineration system includes a rotary kiln, a grate furnace for burning out the kiln residue and a flue gas post-combustion chamber. Flue gas treatment and emission control is based on: a quench tower, followed by dry hydrated lime and activated carbon injection, a dual bag filter system, and a wet scrubber. It demonstrated that this incineration technology can effectively dispose of industrial hazardous waste with variable and complex characteristics. Gas emissions meet the demands of the Chinese Environmental Protection Association standard.
Liquid digestate from anaerobic treatment of source-separated household waste as fertilizer to barley
Authors: Haraldsen Trond Knapp , Andersen Uno , Krogstad Tore , Sørheim Roald
Published: July 2011

This study examined the efficiency of different organic waste materials as NPK fertilizer, in addition to the risk for leaching losses related to shower precipitation in the first part of the growing season. The experiment was tested in a pot trial on a sandy soil in a greenhouse. Six organic fertilizers were evaluated: liquid anaerobic digestate (LAD) sourced from separated household waste, nitrified liquid anaerobic digestate (NLAD) of the same origin as LAD, meat and bone meal (MBM), hydrolysed salmon protein (HSP), reactor-composted catering waste (CW) and cattle manure (CM). An unfertilized control, calcium nitrate (CN) and Fullgjødsel® 21-4-10 were used as reference fertilizers. At equal amounts of mineral nitrogen both LAD and Fullgjødsel® gave equal yield of barley in addition to equal uptake of N, P, and K in barley grain. NLAD gave significantly lower barley yield than the original LAD due to leaching of nitrate-N after a simulated surplus of precipitation (28 mm) at Zadoks 14. There was significantly increased leaching of nitrate N from the treatments receiving 160 kg N ha−1 of CN and NLAD in comparison with all the other organic fertilizers. In this study LAD performed to the same degree as Fullgjødsel® NPK fertilizer and it was concluded that LAD can be recommended as fertilizer for cereals. Nitrification of the ammonium N in the digestate caused significantly increased nitrate leaching, and cannot be recommended.
Healthcare waste management status in Lagos State, Nigeria: a case study from selected healthcare facilities in Ikorodu and Lagos metropolis
Authors: Longe Ezechiel O
Published: July 2011

A survey of healthcare waste management practices and their implications for health and the environment was carried out. The study assessed waste management practices in 20 healthcare facilities ranging in capacity from 40 to 600 beds in Ikorodu and metropolitan Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria. The prevailing healthcare waste management status was analysed. Management issues on quantities and proportion of different constituents of waste, segregation, collection, handling, transportation, treatment and disposal methods were assessed. The waste generation averaged 0.631 kg bed−1 day−1 over the survey area. The waste stream from the healthcare facilities consisted of general waste (59.0%), infectious waste (29.7%), sharps and pathological (8.9%), chemical (1.45%) and others (0.95%). Sharps/pathological waste includes disposable syringes. In general, the waste materials were collected in a mixed form, transported and disposed of along with municipal solid waste with attendant risks to health and safety. Most facilities lacked appropriate treatment systems for a variety of reasons that included inadequate funding and little or no priority for healthcare waste management as well as a lack of professionally competent waste managers among healthcare providers. Hazards associated with healthcare waste management and shortcomings in the existing system were identified.
Global warming contributions from alternative approaches to waste management in the Norwegian Armed Forces
Authors: Myhre Oddvar , Reistad Trine , Longva Kjetil Sager
Published: July 2011

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions emanating from waste management practices in five Norwegian military camps were assessed. The GHG emission accounting practices examined included fuel provision upstream of a material recovery facility (MRF), operational activities at the MRF, and downstream processes. The latter means recycling of waste compared to primary production using virgin materials, or the incineration of waste with energy recovery compared to heating based on the average energy mix for both EU and Norway. The results show that the operational activities at the MRF cause more GHG emissions than the provision of fuel upstream of the MRF (116 vs. 16–21 tonnes CO2-eq., respectively). Furthermore, the downstream activities provided far greater avoidance of GHG emissions than the load caused by upstream activities and the activities at the MRF. Recycling proves to be beneficial over incineration of waste when compared to the EU energy mix (savings of −257 tonnes CO2-eq.), and the advantage is even larger when compared to the average energy mix for Norway (savings of −779 tonnes CO2-eq.). In conclusion, the results show that sorting of mixed waste at military camp collection sites followed by recycling of the separated fractions at MRF would result in significant avoidance of GHG emissions, compared to the current practice of incineration with energy recovery of the mixed waste.
Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay
Authors: Narayanan Vinodh , Rice Stephen G. , Olfers Shannon S. , Sivakumar Kumaraswamy
Published: July 2011

Mutations of the SACS gene have been reported in patients with autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay from Canada (Quebec), Tunisia, Japan, Turkey, Belgium, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Germany. Features that distinguish autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay from other recessive ataxias include sensory motor polyneuropathy and hypermyelinated retinal nerve fibers. We describe the clinical, electrophysiological, and radiological features in 2 white American siblings diagnosed with autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay. The 2 affected children are compound heterozygotes for nonsense mutations of the SACS gene (c. 3484 G>T, p. E 1162 X; and c. 11,707 C>T, p. R 3903 X). We have measured allele-specific SACS mRNA abundance in peripheral blood and show that these specific mutant mRNAs are not degraded. We suggest that in children with early onset cerebellar ataxia and spasticity, ophthalmological examination and nerve conduction testing may guide genetic testing.
Diplopia Due to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a Child
Authors: Georgakopoulos Constantine D. , Kargiotis Odysseas , Eliopoulou Maria I. , Makri Olga E. , Exarchou Artemis M. , Papathanasopoulos Panagiotis
Published: July 2011

We present the case of a 14-year-old girl who was admitted to the hospital with the complaint of horizontal diplopia for 48 hours. Initially, she was diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. During hospitalization she developed fever, macular facial rash, and chest pain, and because of abnormal laboratory findings the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus was established. She received immunomodulatory therapy, a combination of corticosteroids, and intravenous infusions of the monoclonal antibody rituximab, which augmented her clinical improvement. Intracranial hypertension secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus is a rare manifestation, especially as a presenting symptom. In addition, the fact that the patient developed an aggressive form of systemic lupus erythematosus during the initial period of hospitalization for idiopathic intracranial hypertension is also uncommon. Moreover, to our knowledge, we are not aware of any published case reports of intracranial hypertension secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus that was treated with rituximab.
Improving Preservice Teachers’ Perspectives on Family Involvement in Teaching Children With Special Needs
Authors: Kim Eun-Joo , Vail Cynthia
Published: July 2011

This study examines preservice teachers’ perspectives on family involvement in special education and effective teaching methods for delivering family-involvement content. Eighty-three preservice teachers provided data on pre- and postadministrations of a questionnaire. The effectiveness of two methods, a video and a guest speaker, in delivering curriculum concerning family involvement was compared. The results indicated that the participants perceived family involvement as relatively important as measured by the preadministration survey. The overall response mean values measured by two postadministrations increased after students were exposed to the course content on family involvement. Results also indicate that the two teaching methods equally contributed to improving preservice teacher knowledge. Implications for teacher education on the importance of family involvement are presented.
Predicting average velocity of a non-linear sliding microrobot
Authors: Eigoli A Kamali , Vossoughi G R
Published: July 2011

Among the locomotion concepts employed in the microrobotics, friction-based locomotion principles are of considerable importance. In this study, the dynamic modelling of friction drive microrobots subjected to the tangential and normal excitations is investigated, which have the same frequency, but are shifted in phase. The motion equation of the microrobot reveals a strongly non-linear differential equation with discontinuity for which the elastic force term is proportional to a signum function. Using the homotopy perturbation method, simple expressions are derived for predicting average velocity of the slider. The obtained results are in good agreement with those achieved from numerical integration of the full equation and experimental results, reported in the literature. Using the concept of step efficiency, some useful guidelines for the design and control of this type of microrobots are provided.
Micro-grooving on quartz crystals by an abrasive air jet
Authors: Wang J , Moridi A , Mathew P
Published: July 2011

An investigation of the micro-grooving performance of abrasive air jet (AAJ) on quartz crystals is presented and discussed. An experimental study was carried out first to understand the effect of process parameters on the major grooving performance measures such as groove depth, groove width, kerf taper, and surface roughness. Plausible trends for these grooving performance measures with respect to the various process variables, such as air pressure, nozzle traverse speed, jet impact angle, and abrasive mass flowrate, are discussed. It is found that AAJ is an effective technology for micromachining of quartz crystals and the grooving performance can be improved or optimized by selecting the process parameters properly. Predictive models are then developed for quantitatively estimating the micro-grooving performance. The models are finally verified by an experiment. It shows that the model predictions are in good agreement with the experimental results under the corresponding conditions.