bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of exchange transfusion on cytokine profiles in necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: Sugiura Tokio , Kouwaki Masanori , Goto Kenji , Endo Takeshi , Ito Koichi , Koyama Norihisa , Togari Hajime
Published: December 2012

To study the effect of exchange transfusion on cytokine profiles in a patient with necrotizing enterocolitis, the levels of 12 cytokines and serum calprotectin were measured among exchange transfusion. A male extremely low birth weight infant was in non‐compensated shock and diagnosed stage 3 necrotizing enterocolitis. Exchange transfusion was performed for critical condition, refractory hypotension and disseminated intravascular coagulation. After exchange transfusion, the patient's blood pressure increased and stabilized. Then an enterostomy was performed and revealed necrosis of the ascending colon. Of the cytokines examined, interleukin‐8 and serum calprotectin were high before exchange transfusion and decreased after exchange transfusion.
Factors associated with menopausal age inIranian women:TehranLipid andGlucoseStudy
Authors: Farahmand Maryam , Tehrani Fahimeh Ramezani , Pourrajabi Leila , Najafi Masood , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: December 2012

Aim

Menopause, considered a special event in a woman's life, has a wide age range, 40–60 years, and there is no consensus regarding the factors influencing it. We aimed to assess factors affecting the menopausal age in a population of women participants of theTehranLipid andGlucoseStudy.

Material and Methods

For the present study, 1114 women were selected from among participants of theTehranLipid andGlucoseStudy. Following implementation of our inclusion criteria, their reproductive histories and demographic background as well as anthropometric parameters were assessed, and ordinal regression analysis was conducted usingspssversion 15.

Results

The mean estimated age at menopause ± standard deviationwas 49.6 ± 4.5 years. Menopausal age was considerably lower among women with a history of smoking (P = 0.05), and it increased with increasing age of menarche (P = 0.04) and number of children (P = 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the mean age of menopause and the educational level and anthropometric parameters.

Conclusion

The smoking status, parity and the age of menarche are the influencing factors of age at menopause among the Iranian population.
Determination of gestational age in twin pregnancy: Which fetal crown–rump length should be used?
Authors: Chaudhuri Kanika , Su Lin‐Lin , Wong Peng‐Cheang , Chan Yiong‐Huak , Choolani Mahesh A. , Chia Dawn , Biswas Arijit
Published: December 2012

Aim

For twin pregnancy, discrepancies in the crown–rump length (CRL) between two fetuses often exist. Evidence is lacking regarding which fetal CRL should be used for estimation of gestational age (GA). Our aim was to determine whether the larger, smaller or the mean CRL is more accurate in determining the GA in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of twin pregnancies conceived by assisted reproduction. The oocyte retrieval date was used for determination of the true gestational age. CRL dating charts by Robinson, Hadlock and Chitty were used for reference. The values of the larger, smaller and mean CRL were compared with the reference CRL for the corresponding GA, which was obtained from each of the three reference charts. The differences between the reference CRL and measured CRL were calculated. The percentages of which CRL, the larger, smaller or the mean, was closest to the expected reference values were calculated.

Results

A total of 52 pairs of twins were included in the study. According to Robinson's chart, the proportion of larger, smaller and mean CRL values that were closest to the reference value was found in 11.5%, 75.0% and 5.8% of cases respectively. The larger, smaller and the mean CRLs were closest to the reference CRL in the Hadlock chart for 28.9%, 44.2% and 19.2% of cases, respectively, and closest to the reference CRL in the Chitty chart for 17.3%, 59.6% and 15.4% of cases, respectively.

Conclusion

The smaller CRL is more accurate in the estimation of the GA for twin pregnancy compared to the larger or mean CRL values.
Cord blood ischemia‐modified albumin: Is it associated with abnormal Doppler findings in complicated pregnancies and predictive of perinatal asphyxia?
Authors: Kumral Abdullah , Okyay Emre , Guclu Serkan , Gencpinar Pinar , Islekel Gul Huray , Oguz Serife Suna , Kant Melis , Demirel Gamze , Duman Nuray , Ozkan Hasan
Published: December 2012

Aim

To evaluate the significance of the cord blood ischemia‐modified albumin (IMA) level as a diagnostic marker for perinatal asphyxia and to determine the associations of IMA levels with the complexity of pregnancy and abnormal Doppler findings, regardless of perinatal asphyxia.

Methods

This prospective study included 169 newborns, sixteen of whom had perinatal asphyxia and 33 who were from complicated pregnancies. Doppler measurements were obtained from the uterine, umbilical and middle cerebral arteries, and the cerebro/placental ratio (C/P). IMA was measured by means of commercially available ELISA kits and was expressed as picomoles per milliliter.

Results

Ischemia‐modified albumin levels were significantly higher in neonates of complicated pregnancies as compared to uncomplicated pregnancies (P < 0.0001). They were higher in newborns with perinatal asphyxia as compared to healthy controls (P = 0.015). The C/P ratio‐pulsatility index (PI) showed a significant difference between normal and complicated pregnancies without perinatal asphyxia (P < 0.0001). IMA levels were significantly increased in cases with abnormal C/P ratio‐PI.

Conclusions

Elevated cord blood IMA levels may be accepted as a useful marker in perinatal asphyxia. Abnormal Doppler examinations are associated with elevated IMA levels in complicated pregnancies.
Rare case of primary peritoneal pregnancy infiltrated into the Gerota's fascia of the right kidney
Authors: Chishima Fumihisa , Kato‐Suzuki Erina , Ichikawa Go , Hayashi Chuyu , Ohni Sumie , Yamamoto Tatsuo
Published: December 2012

A 33‐year‐old, gravida 3, para 2, woman was transferred to our hospital, with acute abdominal pain. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a cystic lesion accompanied by ring‐enhancement between the liver and right kidney with fluid collection in the pelvic cavity. Serum hCG value was 3100 mIU/mL. Transvaginal sonography revealed a pseudo‐gestational sac in a thickened endometrium. With a preoperative diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy at 7 weeks of gestation, laparotomy was performed. Following careful removal of clots between the liver and right kidney that contained a gestational sac, continuous bleeding from a defect in the Gerota's fascia of the right kidney was noted. The postoperative course was uneventful and the serum hCG concentration decreased markedly. This case demonstrates that the Gerota's fascia is a possible site of ectopic pregnancy, and that CT can identify a pregnancy in the Gerota's fascia as well as in the liver and spleen.
Fibrinogen concentrate substitution therapy for obstetric hemorrhage complicated by coagulopathy
Authors: Kikuchi Mariko , Itakura Atsuo , Miki Akinori , Nishibayashi Manabu , Ikebuchi Kenji , Ishihara Osamu
Published: December 2012

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of fibrinogen concentrate therapy for women with obstetric hemorrhage complicated by dilutional or consumptive coagulopathy by retrospectively reviewing the medical records of relevant patients from a single tertiary center.

Material and Methods

Eighteen cases of coagulopathy (8 dilutional, 10 consumptive) administered fibrinogen concentrate at our center over the past 5 years for treating hypofibrinogenemia were identified. Hemoglobin levels, platelet counts, fibrinogen levels, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and D‐dimer levels were examined before and after fibrinogen substitution. Units of red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, and pooled platelet concentrates transfused; blood loss volume; patient outcomes; and adverse events were obtained from medical and laboratory records.

Results

The overall response to fibrinogen concentrate was considered good in 12 cases, moderate in four, and poor in two. The response rate was good or moderate in 88% (7/8) of dilutional coagulopathy cases and 89% (9/10) of consumptive coagulopathy cases. Fibrinogen levels significantly increased after fibrinogen substitution therapy (approximately 40 mg/L per g fibrinogen concentrate) in both groups. Although prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time improved after substitution, hemoglobin levels, platelet counts, and D‐dimer levels remained unchanged. No serious adverse event was causally associated with fibrinogen substitution therapy.

Conclusion

Fibrinogen concentrate substitution therapy for obstetric hemorrhage increases fibrinogen levels and appears to be effective in managing dilutional or consumptive coagulopathy.
Ergonomic use of the fourth arm to oversew the dorsal vascular complex (DVC) during robot‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP)
Authors: Karim Omer , Rao Amrith , Marsdin Emma , Kavia Rajesh , Parnham Arie , Motiwala Hanif , Laniado Marc
Published: December 2012

Objective

To demonstrate an ergonomic fourth arm technique to oversew the dorsal vascular complex (DVC) during robot‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP).

Patients and Methods

Balloon of a Foley catheter inflated in the bulbar urethra.

Fourth arm cranial traction via suture in the tip of the catheter.

DVC oversewn under direct vision.

Results

Oversew of DVC with minimal patient‐side surgical assistance.

About a 50% reduction in apical positive margin rate.

Conclusion

A useful, ergonomic method of oversewing the DVC during RALP.
Flexible Latent‐State Modelling of Old Faithful's Eruption Inter‐Arrival Times in 2009
Authors: Langrock Roland
Published: December 2012

This paper is concerned with the analysis of a time series comprising the eruption inter‐arrival times of the Old Faithful geyser in 2009. The series is much longer than other well‐documented ones and thus gives a more comprehensive insight into the dynamics of the geyser. Basic hidden Markov models with gamma state‐dependent distributions and several extensions are implemented. In order to better capture the stochastic dynamics exhibited by Old Faithful, the different non‐standard models under consideration seek to increase the flexibility of the basic models in various ways: (i) by allowing non‐geometric distributions for the times spent in the different states; (ii) by increasing the memory of the underlying Markov chain, with or without assuming additional structure implied by mixture transition distribution models; and (iii) by incorporating feedback from the observation process on the latent process. In each case it is shown how the likelihood can be formulated as a matrix product which can be conveniently maximized numerically.
Evaluation of Recursive Detection Methods for Turning Points in Financial Time Series
Authors: Grillenzoni Carlo
Published: December 2012

Timely identification of turning points in economic time series is important for planning control actions and achieving profitability. This paper compares sequential methods for detecting peaks and troughs in stock values and deciding the time to trade. Three semi‐parametric methods are considered: double exponential smoothing, time‐varying parameters and prediction error statistics. These methods are widely used in monitoring, forecasting and control, and their common features are recursive computation and exponential weighting of observations. The novelty of this paper is the selection of smoothing and alarm coefficients for maximisation of the gain (the difference in level between subsequent peaks and troughs) of sample data. The methods are compared on applications to leading financial series and with simulation experiments.
Generalised Variance Function Estimation for Binary Variables in Large‐Scale Sample Surveys
Authors: Cao Ricardo , Vilar José A. , Vilar Juan M.
Published: December 2012

Generalised variance function (GVF) models are data analysis techniques often used in large‐scale sample surveys to approximate the design variance of point estimators for population means and proportions. Some potential advantages of the GVF approach include operational simplicity, more stable sampling errors estimates and providing a convenient method of summarising results when a high number of survey variables is considered. In this paper, several parametric and nonparametric methods for GVF estimation with binary variables are proposed and compared. The behavior of these estimators is analysed under heteroscedasticity and in the presence of outliers and influential observations. An empirical study based on the annual survey of living conditions in Galicia (a region in the northwest of Spain) illustrates the behaviour of the proposed estimators.
Estimating a Single Shelf‐Life for Multiple Batches
Authors: Kiermeier Andreas , Verbyla Arūnas P. , Jarrett Richard G.
Published: December 2012

Pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers of food products are legally required to label the product's shelf‐life on the packaging. For pharmaceutical products the requirements for how to determine the shelf‐life are highly regulated. However, the regulatory documents do not specifically define the shelf‐life. Instead, the definition is implied through the estimation procedure. In this paper, the focus is on the situation where multiple batches are used to determine a label shelf‐life that is applicable to all future batches. Consequently, the short‐comings of existing estimation approaches are discussed. These are then addressed by proposing a new definition of shelf‐life and label shelf‐life, where greater emphasis is placed on within and between batch variability. Furthermore, an estimation approach is developed and the properties of this approach are illustrated using a simulation study. Finally, the approach is applied to real data.
An interview with Robert Lawler
Authors: Lawler Robert W. , Rushby Nick
Published: December 2012

Robert Lawler is one of the key figures in the development of thinkable models and educational games. In this interview, dedicated to Seymour Papert, Marvin Minsky and Oliver Selfridge, he comments on his research notes and provides fascinating insights into the early days of artificial intelligence applications in education.
Two Rare Variants Explain Association with Acute Myocardial Infarction in an Extended Genomic Region Including the Apolipoprotein(A) Gene
Authors: Koch Werner , Mueller Jakob C. , Schrempf Matthias , Wolferstetter Hannah , Kirchhofer Johannes , Schömig Albert , Kastrati Adnan
Published: December 2012

Relatively low numbers of kringle 4 type 2 repeats in apolipoprotein(a) and specific haplotypes of the SLC22A3‐LPAL2‐LPA region on chromosome 6 are associated with an increased risk of coronary disease. We examined the possibility that rs3798220 and rs10455872, short variations located in LPA [the apolipoprotein(a) gene], and related to the number of kringle 4 type 2 repeats, may serve as markers for the association between haplotypes and acute myocardial infarction. Genotypes were determined with TaqMan assays in a sample of 2136 cases and 1211 controls. The minor alleles of rs3798220 and rs10455872 were associated with increased risks (rs3798220‐C: adjusted OR 2.14, 95% CI, 1.37–3.33, P = 0.00080; rs10455872‐G: adjusted OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.36–2.24, P < 0.00001). After adjustments were made for potential confounders, none of nine polymorphisms included in a haplotype analysis were singly related to disease. Two risk haplotypes were identified; one (CCTTGTGTG; OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.08–1.45, P = 0.0022) was correlated with rs3798220‐C and the other (CCCTGGATC; OR 1.65, 95% CI 1.14–2.38, P = 0.0074) with rs10455872‐G. Thus, the findings allowed for a more precise definition of risk‐associated markers: specific nucleotides in LPA instead of standard haplotypes defined by noneffective variants from the extensive SLC22A3‐LPAL2‐LPA region.
Sonographic and electrodiagnostic features of hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies
Authors: Ginanneschi Federica , Filippou Georgios , Giannini Fabio , Carluccio Maria A. , Adinolfi Antonella , Frediani Bruno , Dotti Maria T. , Rossi Alessandro
Published: December 2012

In hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP), the increase in distal motor latencies (DMLs) is often out of proportion to the slowing of conduction velocities, but the pathophysiological mechanism is still unclear. We used a combined electrophysiological and ultrasonographic (US) approach to provide insight into this issue. Twelve HNPP subjects underwent extensive electrophysiological studies and US measurements of the cross‐sectional area (CSA) of several peripheral nerves. US nerve enlargement was only observed in the carpal tunnel, Guyon's canal, the elbow and the fibular head. We did not observe US abnormalities at sites where nerve entrapment is uncommon. An increase in DMLs was observed regardless of US nerve enlargement. The increased nerve CSA only in common sites of entrapment likely reflected the well‐documented nerve vulnerability to mechanical stress in HNPP. No morphometric changes were seen in the distal nerve segments where compression/entrapment is unlikely, despite the fact that the DMLs were increased. These data suggest that factors other than mechanical stress are responsible for the distal slowing of action potential propagation. We speculate that a mixture of mechanical insults and an axon‐initiated process in the distal nerves underlies the distal slowing and/or conduction failure in HNPP.
Unusual features of central nervous system involvement in CMTX associated with a novel mutation of GJB1 gene
Authors: Stancanelli Claudia , Taioli Federica , Testi Silvia , Fabrizi Gian Maria , Arena Maria Grazia , Granata Francesca , Russo Massimo , Gentile Luca , Vita Giuseppe , Mazzeo Anna
Published: December 2012

In this study, we report a novel connexin 32 (CX32) mutation associated with cognitive impairment and a differential degree of peripheral nerve involvement. We present clinical, electrophysiological, and neuroimaging data on a family with X‐linked Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease caused by a 41A>G mutation of the gap junction protein beta 1 (GJB1) gene. The proband and her sister presented with a severe neuropathy with subclinical cognitive impairment; the proband's brother showed severe cognitive impairment and a mild neuropathy. This family report confirms that Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth type X is a clinically heterogeneous group, with great variability of phenotypes, possible severe involvement in females and clinical signs of cognitive impairment. Thus, this novel mutation should be added to the group of CX32 mutations with a central nervous system phenotype.
Hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies. Diagnosis in the first family (1947) confirmed
Authors: Koehler Peter J. , Baas Frank
Published: December 2012

In 1947, the Dutch neurologist De Jong published the first family with, what later would be called, hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP). We recently found a new case from this family and were able to confirm the diagnosis by DNA analysis.
Two novel mutations of GARS in Korean families with distal hereditary motor neuropathy type V
Authors: Lee Hye Jin , Park Jin , Nakhro Khriezanou , Park Jin Mo , Hur Yoon‐Mi , Choi Byung‐Ok , Chung Ki Wha
Published: December 2012

Glycyl‐tRNA synthetase (GARS), which encodes the enzyme responsible for charging tRNA(Gly) with glycine in both the cytoplasm and mitochondria, is implicated to Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease 2D (CMT2D) and distal hereditary motor neuropathy type V (dHMN‐V). We performed whole exome sequencing (WES) to identify the genetic defects in the two dHMN families. WES revealed several decades of non‐synonymous variants in the CMT and aminoacyl‐tRNA synthetase genes. The subsequent capillary sequencing for family members and controls revealed two novel causative mutations, c.598G>A (D200N) and c.794C>T (S265F), in the GARS gene in each dHMN family. Both mutations were cosegregated with affected individuals in each family, and were not found in the 200 controls. The mutation sites were well conserved between the different species and in silico analysis predicted that both mutations may affect protein function. Therefore, we believe that these two novel GARS mutations are the underlying causes of the dHMN phenotype.
Evaluation of Fracture Resistance in Aqueous Environment of Four Restorative Systems for Posterior Applications. Part 1
Authors: Dhima Matilda , Assad Daniel A. , Volz John E. , An Kai‐Nan , Berglund Lawrence J. , Carr Alan B. , Salinas Thomas J.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

The goals of this study were to: (1) establish a range of the performance of four restorative systems for posterior single‐tooth crowns under single load to fracture submerged in an aqueous environment, (2) identify restorative system(s) of interest to be examined in the second study phase under sliding contact step‐stress fatigue as full‐contour anatomically appropriate single posterior tooth restoration(s), (3) establish a range for loading/testing for phase 2.

Materials and Methods

Forty specimens (n = 10/group) of 2 mm uniform thickness were tested. Group 1: monolithic lithium disilicate IPS e.max Press; group 2: IPS e.max ZirPress, 0.8 mm zirconia core with 1.2 mm pressed veneering porcelain; group 3: IPS e.max ZirPress, 0.4 mm zirconia core with 1.6 mm pressed veneering porcelain; group 4: IPS InLine PoM. Specimens were bonded to a block of polycast acrylic resin on a 30° sloped surface with resin cement. Specimens were axially single loaded to failure while submerged under water.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in failure load among the four restorative systems. Lithium disilicate showed a mean failure load similar to mean maximum posterior bite forces (743.1 ± 114.3 N). IPS e.max Zirpress with a 0.4 mm zirconia core exhibited the lowest mean failure load (371.4 ± 123.0 N).

Conclusion

Fracture resistance of monolithic lithium disilicate in an aqueous environment is promising and requires second phase testing to evaluate the potential of various thicknesses appropriate for posterior single tooth applications. Doubling the IPS e.max Zirpress zirconia core from 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm increased the fracture resistance of this restorative system threefold.
FEA Evaluation of the Resistance Form of a Premolar Crown
Authors: Bowley John F. , Ichim Ionut P. , Kieser Jules A. , Swain Michael V.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of buccal and lingual wall convergence angles on the ability of the preparation to resist rotational displacement.

Materials and Methods

An intact premolar digitized by micro‐CT yielded a 3D reproduction of a human tooth. Simulated crown preparations with known buccolingual axial wall convergence angles (4°, 8°, 12°, 16°, 20°, 24°, 28° 32°), sloped‐shoulder marginal area, and occlusal reduction were created and restored with a ceramic crown. The tooth restoration was loaded with a 200 N force at 45° to the incline of the buccal cusp. The responses of the restored tooth with luting agents were analyzed using the 3D finite element method.

Results

This study demonstrated that a convergence angle of the preparation above 12° produced a decrease of the resistance of the crown to rotational effects. The study also showed that the use of luting agents that provide bonding between the restoration and dentine improved the rotational resistance of the crown on preparations with large convergence angles.

Conclusions

Use of buccolingual convergence angles greater than 12° reduced the resistance form of the preparation. Luting agents capable of delivering strong bonding between the crown and the preparation improved the resistance in highly tapered preparations.
Economics, Darwinism, and the Case of Disciplinary Imports
Authors: Cojanu Valentin
Published: December 2012

The problem of causality in economics is still contended by various epistemological alternatives. The article builds on the received view of Darwinism in economics and examines the way in which economics and biology find common ground in concepts and assumptions that reflect causal commonalities of the natural and the social world. We claim that the role the contingent pattern plays in understanding socioeconomic change provides reasons to concede corrections to a rule‐based causal mechanism. The article concludes on the merits of advancing the ontological equivalent of interdisciplinary studies as one possible standard in reference to which to judge the epistemic adequacy of any import.
Important Determinants of Child Labor: A Case Study for Lahore
Authors: Siddiqi Ahmed F.
Published: December 2012

Child labor is a persistent problem both for developing and developed countries. Academic literature holds a household responsible for this phenomenon where poverty, literacy level, and the de facto demography are considered important. A factor model is attempted in this study to investigate dynamics of child labor in a society in terms of these household characteristics. The model reveals that household‐poverty‐driven factors are the most serious while the household demography is the second most serious factor in the dynamics of child labor in Lahore. Shockingly, household literacy does not have any role to play, at least not in Lahore. The results will help policymakers to work in the domain of poverty to mitigate child labor, and also urge them to align societal factors, which shape household demography.
Task‐Related Variation in Computer‐Assisted Language Learning
Authors: Heift Trude , Rimrott Anne
Published: December 2012

This study investigates task‐related variation in learner performance in a computer‐assisted language learning (CALL) environment. For our study, we collected data from 15 beginner and then intermediate second language (L2) learners of German who worked on 3 distinct activity types over 16 months: free composition, translation, and sentence building. Study results reveal that grammatical accuracy with respect to German word order was significantly higher with the meaning‐focused task type (i.e., free composition) for both the beginner and intermediate levels. Moreover, proficiency level also had a significant effect on L2 word order accuracy: Beginner students performed significantly better than intermediate learners on the two form‐focused task types (i.e., translation and sentence building). With the ultimate goal of understanding learner performance as it relates to different task types and success in CALL, this article provides possible explanations of these study results and suggests areas for future development of task design in CALL.
The Zone of Proximal Development and the Genesis of Self‐Assessment
Authors: Poehner Matthew E.
Published: December 2012

Self‐assessment practices have become widespread in second language (L2) education, and while its proponents have long argued that such reflection enhances learner awareness of their abilities and promotes independent learning (Alderson, 2005; Chen, 2008; Little, 2007), others have questioned its value vis‐à‐vis other indicators of performance (Gipps, 1994; Ross, 1998). This article approaches learner self‐assessment from a Vygotskian perspective, and specifically the proposal of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD). According to this view, development is understood as transitioning from other‐regulated to self‐regulated functioning. Following Zuckerman (2003), engaging in reflective evaluation of performance is argued to be a critical feature of this process. Data from a study involving L2 learners of French participating in a Dynamic Assessment (Lantolf & Poehner, 2004) program are presented to explore how this development may occur and to examine challenges learners may experience as they endeavor to regulate not only their use of the L2 during completion of tasks but also while evaluating their performance. In keeping with the notion of the ZPD, it is argued that learner efforts to self‐assess must be carefully mediated as they move from a cooperative to an independent mode of self‐assessment.
Vocabulary and Grammar Knowledge in Second Language Reading Comprehension: A Structural Equation Modeling Study
Authors: ZHANG DONGBO
Published: December 2012

Using structural equation modeling analysis, this study examined the contribution of vocabulary and grammatical knowledge to second language reading comprehension among 190 advanced Chinese English as a foreign language learners. Vocabulary knowledge was measured in both breadth (Vocabulary Levels Test) and depth (Word Associates Test); grammatical measures focused on learners' implicit (timed grammaticality judgment task), as well as explicit knowledge (grammatical error correction task); reading comprehension had three indicators, namely, co‐reference, textual inference, and gist. Vocabulary knowledge related significantly to reading comprehension; grammatical knowledge showed a weak contribution to reading comprehension after controlling for the effect of vocabulary knowledge. In addition, learners' implicit knowledge of grammar had a stronger relationship to reading comprehension than explicit knowledge, over and above the effect of vocabulary size.
1. Introduction
Authors: Kristjánsson Jónas , Einarsson Bjarni F. , Jónasson Kristján , McAleese Kevin , Hjaltalín Þór
Published: December 2012

Two interwoven topics are dealt with, firstly a new interpretation of the Icelandic Sagas and historical written sources on the Viking age voyages to North America, leading to a theory on the location of Vínland, and secondly an archaeological survey of deer hunting pitfalls in Newfoundland, which were possibly dug by the Nordic voyagers a millenium ago. According the theory of the article, Vínland is the modern day Newfoundland, and the Straumfjord of the sagas, where Thorfinn Karlsefni and Gudríd Thorbjarnardóttir attempted settlement could be Sop’s Arm in White Bay on the North coast of Newfoundland. The system of pitfalls that was surveyed and excavated is close to Sop’s Arm. The pitfalls form an 82 metre long system that lies in an almost straight line. Individual pits are now 1.5–2.3 metres deep and 7–10 metres long. Two pitfalls were excavated by taking a section into them. Attempted radiocarbon dating of soil from two pitfalls was inconclusive. Considerable soil thickening of 55–110 centimetres since the pitfall construction was observed.
Introduction
Authors: O’Meadhra Uaininn
Published: December 2012

This article describes the finding, documentation and significance of the set of medieval logic diagrams and associated text, all in highly abbreviated Latin minuscule, sketched on an inside wall of the Romanesque tower of the parish church in Bro, near Visby. The diagrams depict the Square of Opposition, the basic concept to be mastered in introductory logic as taught at medieval schools and universities. A date c.1200-1225 is suggested by their being executed in the earliest plaster when wet (tower built c.1200), while up to 1350 is suggested by palaeography. Dating by textual content is still in progress. Either way the Bro diagrams are among the earliest logic texts written in Scandinavia, and this is the first time for such texts to be found outside a manuscript. They are also the earliest known physical evidence of a teaching session or a discourse in logic. Furthermore they contribute to a growing body of evidence of the high standard of learning that existed in medieval Gotland.
IVIG and PLEX in the treatment of myasthenia gravis
Authors: Bril Vera , Barnett‐Tapia Carolina , Barth David , Katzberg Hans D.
Published: December 2012

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasma exchange (PLEX) are used to treat myasthenia gravis (MG) but with little trial evidence. While a class I study provided evidence for the efficacy of IVIG treatment, the empirical support for PLEX has been less convincing until recently. In a randomized controlled single‐masked study of 84 MG patients with moderate to severe disease, IVIG and PLEX had comparable efficacy as demonstrated by reduction in the Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis Score (QMGS) for disease severity, percentage of responders, persistence of treatment effect, and tolerability, which were similar in both treatment arms. The change in QMGS was accompanied by improved disease‐specific quality of life. The only factor predicting response to treatment was baseline severity. FcR polymorphisms did not predict response to IVIG therapy, but an inhibitory polymorphism was associated with baseline disease severity. These studies support the choice of either IVIG or PLEX as comparable treatments in adult patients with moderate to severe MG.
Treatment in Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome
Authors: Maddison Paul
Published: December 2012

Besides antitumor therapy for patients with the paraneoplastic form of Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), the mainstay of symptomatic treatment in LEMS is 3,4‐diaminopyridine (3,4‐DAP). Data from four randomized, placebo‐controlled trials have revealed that muscle strength scores increased significantly with 3,4‐DAP. A limited meta‐analysis performed on two trials using the Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis score indicated that the clinical benefits seen were modest. Meta‐analysis of the mean change in compound muscle action potential amplitude following 3,4‐DAP treatment revealed a significant improvement compared to placebo. However, most patients with noncancer LEMS require long‐term immunosuppression, usually with prednisolone and azathioprine. A single crossover study has previously shown significant short‐term benefit in limb strength following intravenous immunoglobulin, and there are isolated case reports of medium term benefit from rituximab. Overall, a combination of symptomatic treatment with 3,4‐DAP and immunosuppression, with or without antitumor therapy, is often successful for most LEMS patients, with other more aggressive regimens rarely needed.
DOK7 congenital myasthenic syndrome
Authors: Palace Jacqueline
Published: December 2012

Despite being a fairly recent discovery, DOK7 congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) is the third most common form of CMS in the United Kingdom. DOK7 is a postsynaptic protein associated with the AChR clustering pathway. In contrast to AChR deficiency due to epsilon subunit mutations, onset of DOK7 CMS tends to be later—ages two to three years—and in DOK7 CMS eye movements are usually spared and anticholinesterases can exacerbate the weakness. The typical phenotype of DOK7 CMS is of a limb girdle weakness with associated nonspecific myopathic features. The presence of stridor in early onset cases and the observation of tongue wasting may be specific clues. Worsening in adulthood is common, particularly affecting bulbar and respiratory function. Treatment with ephedrine or oral salbutamol can result in a slow, steady, and often dramatic improvement over months.
Biomarker development for myasthenia gravis
Authors: Kaminski Henry J. , Kusner Linda L. , Wolfe Gil I. , Aban Inmaculada , Minisman Greg , Conwit Robin , Cutter Gary
Published: December 2012

Biomarkers are defined as characteristics (e.g., proteins, RNA, single nucleotide polymorphisms, imaging) that are objectively measured and evaluated as indicators of pathogenic processes or pharmacologic responses to therapeutic intervention. Biomarkers are important in clinical trials where the robust biomarker reflects the underlying disease process in a sensitive and reliable manner. For myasthenia gravis (MG), acetylcholine receptor and muscle‐specific kinase antibodies, as well as single‐fiber electromyography, serve as excellent biomarkers for diagnosis but do not adequately substitute for clinical evaluations to predict treatment response. New technologies are emerging that enable broad biomarker discovery in biological fluids. Biomarker evaluation is ideally done in the context of longitudinal clinical trials. The MGTX trial has collected plasma and serum for RNA and protein analysis and thymus, which will allow robust biomarker discovery. The ultimate goal will be to identify candidates for a reliable substitute for a clinically meaningful end point that is a direct measure of the effectiveness of a therapy in the context of a continuum of disease natural history and a patient's overall well‐being.
Pathogenic IgG4 subclass autoantibodies in MuSK myasthenia gravis
Authors: Plomp Jaap J. , Huijbers Maartje G. , van der Maarel Silvère M. , Verschuuren Jan J.
Published: December 2012

Autoantibodies against muscle‐specific kinase (MuSK), a protein essential for clustering of acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), are detected in the serum of a proportion of myasthenia gravis (MG) patients. In most MuSK MG patients the anti‐MuSK activity resides in the IgG4 subclass, a minor IgG component without very well‐defined, but presumably anti‐inflammatory, roles in immunity. In recent years, several animal model studies showed that anti‐MuSK autoantibodies can cause muscle weakness by directly affecting NMJ function and, therefore, are likely not simply bystander disease markers in MuSK MG patients. In passive transfer mice, we recently provided proof that MuSK MG patient IgG4 is severely myasthenogenic, causing functional defects at NMJs. Against the clinical, serological, and pharmacological background of MuSK MG, here we discuss the MuSK MG animal models generated by our laboratory and others that have been instrumental in elucidating the etiological and pathophysiological roles of anti‐MuSK antibodies.
Further developments with antisense treatment for myasthenia gravis
Authors: Sussman Jon , Argov Zohar , Wirguin Yitzhak , Apolski Slobodan , Milic‐Rasic Vedrana , Soreq Hermona
Published: December 2012

We present further developments in the study of the antisense oligonucleotide EN101. Ongoing in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate that EN101 is a TLR9‐specific ligand that can suppress pro‐inflammatory functions and shift nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) from the pro‐inflammatory canonical pathway to the anti‐inflammatory alternative pathway, which results in decreases acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity. Preliminary results of a double‐blinded phase II cross‐over study compared 10, 20, and 40 mg EN101 administered to patients with myasthenia gravis. Patients were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups in weeks 1, 3, and 5 and received their pretreatment dose of pyridostigmine in weeks 2 and 4. Thus far, all doses show a decrease in QMG scores, with a greater response to higher doses.
Neuromuscular transmission failure in myasthenia gravis: decrement of safety factor and susceptibility of extraocular muscles
Authors: Serra Alessandro , Ruff Robert L. , Leigh Richard John
Published: December 2012

An appropriate density of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) and Na+channels (NaChs) in the normal neuromuscular junction (NMJ) determines the magnitude of safety factor (SF) that guarantees fidelity of neuromuscular transmission. In myasthenia gravis (MG), an overall simplification of the postsynaptic folding secondary to NMJ destruction results in AChRs and NaChs depletion. Loss of AChRs and NaChs accounts, respectively, for 59% and 40% reduction of the SF at the endplate, which manifests as neuromuscular transmission failure. The extraocular muscles (EOM) have physiologically less developed postsynaptic folding, hence a lower baseline SF, which predisposes them to dysfunction in MG and development of fatigue during “high performance” eye movements, such as saccades. However, saccades in MG show stereotyped, conjugate initial components, similar to normal, which might reflect preserved neuromuscular transmission fidelity at the NMJ of the fast, pale global fibers, which have better developed postsynaptic folding than other extraocular fibers.
Nutritional Potential of Rice Bean (Vigna Umbellata): An Underutilized Legume
Authors: Katoch Rajan
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  Rice bean, a less known and underutilized legume, has emerged as a potential legume because of its nutritional potential. The nutritional quality of rice bean is higher as compared to many other legumes of Vigna family. In the present study, 16 diverse rice bean genotypes were evaluated for major nutritional constituents viz; protein content, total lipids, dietary fiber, total carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, protein fractions, amino acid, and fatty acid profile. The protein content to the extent of 25.57% was observed in the genotype BRS‐2 with in vitro digestibility of 54.23%. The fatty acid profile revealed the higher percentage of unsaturated fatty viz., linoleic and linolenic acid, which are nutritionally desirable in the diet. Albumins (6.13% to 7.47%) and globulins (13.11% to 15.56%) constituted the major portion of proteins. Anti‐nutritional factors were in the range of: total phenolics (1.63% to 1.82%), total tannins (1.37% to 1.55%), condensed tannins (0.75% to 0.80%), hydrolysable tannins (0.56% to 0.79%), trypsin inhibitor (24.55 to 37.23 mg/g), phytic acid (7.32 to 8.17 mg/g), lipoxygenase activity (703 to 950 units/mg), and saponin content (1.2 to 3.1 mg/100 g). The oligosaccharides associated with the production of flatulence viz., raffinose, stachyose, and verbascose were in the limits of 1.66% to 2.58%, 0.94% to 1.88%, and 0.85% to 1.23%, respectively. In vitro protein digestibility up to 55.57% was observed in rice bean genotypes. The present study has revealed that rice bean is a nutritionally rich legume as compared to many other legumes of the category. Among different genotypes BRS‐2 was observed superior and could be advocated for consumption as well as for inclusion in crop improvement programs.

Practical Application:  Rice bean is nutritionally rich legume, but despite its nutritional excellence, it has been put in underutilized category. Because of this and several other reasons the people are not aware of its nutritional benefits. Moreover, the complete nutritional details are also not available on this pulse. The present study gives the vivid description of nutritional attributes of this legume for making people aware of its nutritional excellence and provoking improved work in rice bean.
Influence of Galactooligosaccharides and Modified Waxy Maize Starch on Some Attributes of Yogurt
Authors: Prasad Laxmi N. , Sherkat Frank , Shah Nagendra P.
Published: December 2012

Abstract: This study examined the influence of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and modified waxy maize starch (MWMS) addition on the growth of starter cultures, and syneresis and firmness of low‐fat yogurt during storage for 28 d at 4 °C. The control yogurt (CY) was prepared without any prebiotics. Incorporation of 2.0% (w/v) GOS improved the growth ofL. delbrueckiissp.bulgaricusATCC 11842 resulting in a shorter fermentation time. There was a significant (P< 0.05) increase in proteolysis in yogurt made with GOS (GOSY) as measured by absorbance value (0.728). Addition of GOS resulted in higher (P< 0.05) concentration of lactic and acetic acids in comparison with that of MWMSY and the CY up to day 14, thereafter, the product showed a decrease in lactic acid content in all 3 batches until the end of storage. The level of syneresis was the lowest (2.14%) in MWMSY as compared with that of GOSY (2.35%) and CY (2.53%). There was no statistically significant (P> 0.05) difference in the firmness among the 3 types of yogurt.
Multiplex Real‐Time PCR Method for Detection and Quantification of Mycotoxigenic Fungi Belonging to Three Different Genera
Authors: Vegi Anuradha , Wolf‐Hall Charlene E.
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  Cereal crop plants are colonized by many fungal species such as Aspergillus ochraceus and Penicillium verrucosum, which produce ochratoxins, and Fusarium graminearum, which produces trichothecene mycotoxins. A multiplex real‐time PCR method using TaqMan probes was developed to simultaneously detect and quantify these mycotoxigenic Fusarium, Penicillium and Aspergillus species in cereal grains. Primers and probes used in this method were designed targeting the trichothecene synthase (Tri5) gene in trichothecene‐producing Fusarium, rRNA gene in Penicillium verrucosum, and polyketide synthase gene (Pks) in Aspergillus ochraceus. The method was highly specific in detecting fungal species containing these genes and was sensitive, detecting up to 3 pg of genomic DNA. These PCR products were detectable over five orders of magnitude (3 pg to 30 ng of genomic DNA). The method was validated by evaluating sixteen barley culture samples for the presence of deoxynivalenol (DON) and ochratoxin A (OTA) producing fungi. Among the barley culture samples tested, 9 were positive for Fusarium spp, 5 tested positive for Penicillium spp, and 2 tested positive for Aspergillus spp. Results were confirmed by traditional microbiological methods. These results indicate that DON‐ and OTA‐producing fungi can be detected and quantified in a single reaction tube using this multiplex real‐time PCR method.

Practical Application:  This method would be helpful in detecting and quantifying the mycotoxin producing fungi such as Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium in cereal grains and cereal‐based foods.
Geochronology and Ore‐Forming Fluids of the Baizhangyan W–Mo Deposit in the Chizhou Area, Middle‐Lower Yangtze Valley, SE‐China
Authors: Song Guoxue , Qin Kezhang , Li Guangming , Li Xianhua , Qu Wenjun
Published: December 2012

The Baizhangyan skarn‐porphyry type W–Mo deposit is located in a newly defined Mo–W–Pb–Zn metallogenic belt, which is in the south of Middle‐Lower Yangtze Valley Cu–Fe–Au polymetallic metallogenic belt in SE China. The W–Mo orebodies occur mainly within the contact zone between fine‐grained granite and Sinian limestone strata. There are two types of W–Mo mineralization: major skarn W–Mo mineralization and minor granite‐hosted disseminated Mo mineralization which was traced by drilling at depth. Eight molybdenite samples from Mo‐bearing ores yield Re–Os dates that overlap within analytical error, with a weighted average age of 134.1 ± 2.2 Ma. These dates are in close agreement with SIMS U–Pb concordant zircon age for fine‐grained granite at 133.3 ± 1.3 Ma, indicating that crystallization of the granite and hydrothermal molybdenite formation were coeval and likely cogenetic. The Baizhangyan W–Mo deposit formed in the Early Cretaceous extensional tectonic setting at the Middle‐Lower Yangtze Valley metallogenic belt and the Jaingnan Ancient Continent. Based on mineral compositions and crosscutting relationships of veinlets, hydrothermal alteration and mineralization, the ore mineral paragenesis of the Baizhangyan deposit is divided into four stages: skarn stage (I), oxide stage (II), sulfide stage (III), and carbonate stage (IV). Fluid inclusions in garnet, scheelite, quartz and calcite from W–Mo ores are mainly aqueous‐rich (L + V) type inclusions. Following garnet deposition at stage I, the high‐temperature fluids gave way to progressively cooler, more dilute fluids associated with tungsten–molybdenite–base metal sulfide deposition (stage II and stage III) (162–360°C, 2.7–13.2 wt % NaCl equivalent) and carbonate deposition (stage IV) (137–190°C, 0.9–5 wt % NaCl equiv.). Hydrogen‐oxygen isotope data from minerals of different stages suggest that the ore‐forming fluids consisted of magmatic water, mixed in various proportions with meteoric water. From stage I to stage IV, there is a systematic decrease in the homogenization temperature of the fluid‐inclusion fluids and calculated δ18O values of the fluids. These suggest that increasing involvement of formation water or meteoric water during the fluid ascent resulted in successive deposition of scheelite and molybdenite at Baizhangyan.