bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low alpha‐fetoprotein hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Carr Brian I , Pancoska Petr , Branch Robert A
Published: February 2010

Background and Aim:  A large proportion of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients do not secrete elevated levels of the tumor marker alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP). There is little published guide to prognostic features of this patient subset.

Methods:  We interrogated a large HCC database in which all patients had been followed until death, to examine which features might be prognostically useful.

Results:  We found 413 biopsy‐proven unresectable HCC patients with low serum AFP values. Serum gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP) levels were one of the most significant factors for survival. This dichotomization into low and high GGTP levels separated the patients into distinctive survival ranges. Patients with GGTP levels < 110 U/100 mL and small tumors had longest survival > 795 days. Patients with GGTP ≥ 110 U/mL and large tumors with the presence of portal vein thrombosis had the shortest survival range of 300–560 days.

Conclusions:  Serum levels of the onco‐fetal protein GGTP represent a useful prognostic parameter in HCC patients with low AFP levels.
DO MERGERS REALLY REDUCE COSTS? EVIDENCE FROM HOSPITALS
Authors: HARRISON TERESA D.
Published: February 2010

In this paper, we compare potential and realized cost savings from hospital mergers. Our approach isolates changes in realized cost savings due to different output mixes from systematic changes due to time and also provides a measure of the potential cost savings due to scale economies. Our findings suggest that economies of scale are present for merging hospitals and they realize these cost savings immediately following a merger. However, we also show that over time, cost savings from the merger decrease and the proportion of hospitals experiencing positive cost savings declines. (JEL L1, I11, C14)
MULTIPRODUCT PRICING IN MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL: A PRINCIPAL COMPONENTS ANALYSIS
Authors: DEPKEN CRAIG A. , GRANT DARREN
Published: February 2010

The empirical analysis of multiproduct pricing lacks clear theoretical guidance and appropriate data, which often render traditional regression‐based analyses impractical. Under these circumstances the factors underlying price variation can be inferred using a new methodology based on principal components. Analyzing ticket, parking, and concession pricing in Major League Baseball with this methodology demonstrates that general demand shifts are the primary factor, but explain only half of overall price variation. Also important are price interactions deriving from demand interrelationships between goods and attempts to maximize the capture of consumer surplus in the presence of heterogeneous demand. (JEL D40, L11, L13)
Why Consistency of Accounting Standards Matters: A Contribution to the Rules‐Versus‐Principles Debate in Financial Reporting
Authors: WÜSTEMANN JENS , WÜSTEMANN SONJA
Published: February 2010

A cross‐firm consistent application of accounting standards is sought in all major accounting regimes. Since many transactions and events are only vaguely or not explicitly addressed in the standards managers must often use judgment when applying accounting standards to particular transactions or events. This analysis concludes that a consistent application of accounting standards can only be ensured if the accounting standards themselves are internally consistent. By contrast, inconsistent standards—in the absence of clear guidance—permit managers to (more or less arbitrarily) choose between different accounting methods. Moreover, it is found that a consistent application presupposes the existence of specific guidance (‘rules’) in order to frame management's judgment. It is argued that the reliance on principles only—as requested by many in the accounting literature—fails to ensure a consistent application because it allows management to exert judgment differently in identical cases. The assessment includes arguments and propositions from the international discussion in the accounting literature and also refers to other related fields of research, such as legal theory.
Accounting for the Business of Suffering: A Study of the Antebellum Richmond, Virginia, Slave Trade
Authors: HEIER JAN RICHARD
Published: February 2010

When the Congress barred the importation of slaves into the United States in 1808, it left the internal slave trade intact. The trade took on a new importance as the slave states of the Old South saw their agricultural economies shift to a point that holding large numbers of slaves became too expensive. During this time, the large agricultural concerns shifted to the New South, where cotton and sugar plantations needed the cheap labour provided by the institution of slavery. As this transition intensified, Richmond, Virginia, became a central slave market that facilitated the interstate slave trade as Old South planters chose the course of selling slaves as a valuable commodity rather than the course of manumission. The records of two businesses—Dickinson & Hill and Hector Davis & Company—which plied the slave trade in the Richmond market, have survived into the twenty‐first century. These records revealed a primitive, yet sophisticated, process to account for the consignment, purchase, and sales of human merchandise in this haunting story of the ‘business of suffering’.
An Evaluation of the Economic Approaches Used by Policy Actors towards Investment in Place‐Based Partnerships in Victoria
Authors: McDonald Chris , Frost Lionel , Kirk‐Brown Andrea , Rainnie Al , Van Dijk Pieter
Published: February 2010

Place‐based partnerships are supported by the state and include various organisations and interests within particular geographic areas. The Victorian government has established place‐based partnerships to plan and coordinate resource allocation decisions to meet objectives such as economic development and social inclusion. In the literature there are positive and negative views of these partnerships. One view is that they allow regions to build competitive advantage, while another is that they are a means of pursuing a neoliberal policy agenda that seeks to reduce government protection and investment. We help clarify the tensions between positive and negative views of partnerships by examining the economic approaches used by policy actors toward place‐based partnerships in Victoria. We find that policy actors combine neoclassical and institutionalist approaches to argue that partnerships generate networks that enable more efficient and equitable resource allocation within places.
Valuing Public Value: Recognising and Applying Knowledge About the Governmental Process*
Authors: Colebatch H.K.
Published: February 2010

Rhodes and Wanna (2007)
 have criticised Moore's argument for ‘public value’ as an organising construct for public managers, claiming that it is confused, ill‐informed, ignores the central dynamic of political life, and demands that public managers become ‘Platonic guardians’, making it totally inappropriate for use in Australia. This article examines Moore's analysis and Rhodes and Wanna's critique, and explores the relevance for the argument of the complex nature of authority in Australian government, recent developments in the social science understanding of governing, and the experiential knowledge of practitioners. It cites the governing of the Murray‐Darling Basin as an example, and discusses the different discourses that academics and practitioners use in making sense of complexity in governing.
The Queensland Health Royal Commissions
Authors: Prasser Scott
Published: February 2010

Utilisation of public inquiries and royal commissions in Westminster systems of government is a source of continuing interest. That royal commissions continue to be appointed when there is an increasing array of other institutions governments can now employ and given that royal commission reports often have very adverse impacts on the appointing governments, remains a key issue. So the appointment by the Queensland government of not one, but two royal commissions in 2005 into the same topic – the recruitment and performance of doctors recruited abroad working in Queensland public hospitals – provides a special opportunity to analyse the circumstances in which a royal commission mechanism is activated. That one of these royal commissions had to be disbanded because of legal action taken by several of those being investigated is another reason to assess these royal commissions. This is almost without precedent in Australia and has implications for the future conduct of such bodies. Lastly, how the Queensland government was able to minimise the blame from the subsequent royal commission's highly critical report, is also instructive and worthy of assessment.
ADOLESCENT AND PARENTAL PERCEPTIONS OF MEDICAL DECISION‐MAKING IN HONG KONG
Authors: HUI EDWIN
Published: February 2010

Objectives: To investigate whether Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong share similar perceptions with their Western counterparts regarding their capacity for autonomous decision‐making, and secondarily whether Chinese parents underestimate their adolescent children's desire and capacity for autonomous decision‐making.

Method:‘Healthy Adolescents’ and their parents were recruited from four local secondary schools, and ‘Sick Adolescents’ and their parents from the pediatric wards and outpatient clinics. Their perceptions of adolescents' understanding of illnesses and treatments, maturity in judgment, risk‐taking, openness to divergent opinions, pressure from parents and doctors, submission to parental authority and preference for autonomy in medical decision‐making are surveyed by a 50‐item questionnaire on a five‐point Likert scale.

Results: Findings indicate that Chinese adolescents aged 14–16 perceive themselves to possess the necessary cognitive abilities and maturity in judgment to be autonomous decision‐makers like their Western counterparts. Paradoxically, although they hesitate to assert their autonomy, they are also unwilling to surrender that autonomy to their parents even under coercion or intimidation. Parents tend to underestimate their adolescents' preferences for making autonomous decisions and overestimate the importance of parental authority in decision‐making.

Conclusion:‘14‐and‐above’ Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong perceive themselves as capable of autonomous decision‐making in medically‐related matters, but hesitate to assert their autonomy, probably because of the Confucian values of parental authority and filial piety that are deeply embedded in the local culture.
ON THE NEED FOR IMPROVED PROTECTIONS OF INCAPACITATED AND NON‐BENEFITING RESEARCH SUBJECTS
Authors: ERIKSSON STEFAN
Published: February 2010

In this article, it is claimed that the protective provisions for adults with impaired decision‐making capacity are misguided, insofar as they do not conclusively state whether research on this group should be permitted only as an exception, and as they arbitrarily allow for some groups to benefit from such research while others will not. Moreover, the presumed or former will of the subject is given insufficient weight, and the minimal risk standard does not make sense in this context. Because of these problems, the present guidelines allow for the possibility of vulnerable people being exploited, something that is hidden behind a guise of solidarity. Instead we need to address the real issues at stake by rewriting the present statutes. It is suggested that new guidelines should be in some continuity with earlier efforts. However, in order to protect these subjects there is additional need for appointed representatives who monitor research and for legal obligations to compensate for any injuries suffered. Without these or similar measures we won't have an adequate system in place for the protection of non‐benefiting persons who are unable to consent to research.
THE 2008 LAWRENCE R. KLEIN LECTURE—COMPARATIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: INSIGHTS FROM UNIFIED GROWTH THEORY*
Authors: Galor Oded
Published: February 2010

This article explores the implications of Unified Growth Theory for the origins of existing differences in income per capita across countries. The theory sheds light on three fundamental layers of comparative development. It identifies the factors that have governed the pace of the transition from stagnation to growth and have thus contributed to contemporary variation in economic development. It uncovers the forces that have sparked the emergence of multiple growth regimes and convergence clubs, and it underlines the persistent effects that variations in prehistorical biogeographical conditions have generated on the composition of human capital and economic development across the globe.
POLICY UNCERTAINTY, ELECTORAL SECURITIES, AND REDISTRIBUTION*
Authors: Mattozzi Andrea
Published: February 2010

This article investigates how uncertainty about the adoption of a redistribution policy affects political support for redistribution when individuals can trade policy‐contingent securities in the stock market. In equilibrium the support for redistribution is smaller than where no “policy‐insurance market” is available. This implies that in economies with well‐developed financial markets redistribution decreases with the level of participation in these markets and with income inequality. Furthermore, the existence of a policy‐insurance market may lead to a less equal distribution of income than where no insurance is available even if a majority of individuals are redistributing resources through private transfers.
COURSE BIDDING AT BUSINESS SCHOOLS*
Authors: Sönmez Tayfun , Ünver M. Utku
Published: February 2010

Mechanisms that rely on course bidding are widely used at business schools in order to allocate seats at oversubscribed courses. Bids play two key roles under these mechanisms: to infer student preferences and to determine who have bigger claims on course seats. We show that these two roles may easily conflict, and preferences induced from bids may significantly differ from the true preferences. Therefore, these mechanisms, which are promoted as market mechanisms, do not necessarily yield market outcomes. We introduce a Pareto‐dominant market mechanism that can be implemented by asking students for their preferences in addition to their bids over courses.
DOUBLE‐SIDED ADVERSE SELECTION IN THE PRODUCT MARKET AND THE ROLE OF THE INSURANCE MARKET*
Authors: Hun Seog S.
Published: February 2010

I investigate the interrelation between a product market and an insurance market when adverse‐selection problems exist both in consumers and in firms. Firms offer warranties for product failures. Consumers may further purchase first‐party insurance for the residual risks of product failures. Given that the insurance market exists, two types of equilibria are possible: (a) Different firm types offer different pooling warranties attracting both good and bad consumer types or (b) good firms attract only bad consumers and bad firms attract both types of consumers. I discuss the existence and the efficiency implication of the insurance market.
THE WEALTH DISTRIBUTION WITH DURABLE GOODS*
Authors: Díaz Antonia , Luengo‐Prado María José
Published: February 2010

In the United States, the distribution of houses is less egalitarian than that of earnings for the total population, but these two distributions are remarkably similar for homeowners. Additionally, housing as a fraction of total wealth decreases with the level of wealth. In order to understand the different factors that account for these wealth composition patterns, we introduce illiquid houses and collateral credit in a general equilibrium model of heterogeneous agents with idiosyncratic uncertainty. A combination of very persistent shocks to earnings, frictions in the housing market, and a rental market is necessary to obtain numbers in line with the evidence.
TAXING FOREIGN PROFITS WITH INTERNATIONAL MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS*
Authors: Becker Johannes , Fuest Clemens
Published: February 2010

A large part of border crossing investment takes the form of international mergers and acquisitions. In this article, we ask how optimal repatriation tax systems look like in a world where investment involves a change of ownership, instead of a reallocation of real capital. We find that the standard results of international taxation do not carry over to the case of international mergers and acquisitions. The deduction system is no longer optimal from a national perspective and the foreign tax credit system fails to ensure global optimality. The tax exemption system is optimal if ownership advantage is a public good within the multinational firm. However, the cross‐border cash‐flow tax system dominates the exemption system in terms of optimality properties.
MANAGED TRADE WITH IMPERFECT INFORMATION*
Authors: Hochman Gal , Segev Ella
Published: February 2010

This article illustrates the importance of imperfect information in self‐enforcing trade agreements. It shows that expected welfare is higher with current period uncertainty, and a high level of uncertainty may even undermine the need for a safeguard clause. These results were derived by extending the seminal paper by Bagwell and Staiger (The American Economic Review 80 (1990), 779–95) to account for current period uncertainty.
COMMITTEES AS SUBSTITUTES FOR COMMITMENT*
Authors: Riboni Alessandro
Published: February 2010

In this article, policies are negotiated in a committee by playing a dynamic voting game with an endogenous default (or status quo) policy. I show that joining a committee by maintaining a strong agenda setting power is a way for a decision maker to commit to a policy that in absence of committees is not time consistent. The disciplinary role of the endogenous status quo and the heterogeneity of preferences within the committee are two crucial ingredients to obtain this result. As a motivating example, this article focuses on the time consistency of monetary policy.
GENERALIZED STOCHASTIC GRADIENT LEARNING*
Authors: Evans George W. , Honkapohja Seppo , Williams Noah
Published: February 2010

We study the properties of the generalized stochastic gradient (GSG) learning in forward‐looking models. GSG algorithms are a natural and convenient way to model learning when agents allow for parameter drift or robustness to parameter uncertainty in their beliefs. The conditions for convergence of GSG learning to a rational expectations equilibrium are distinct from but related to the well‐known stability conditions for least squares learning.
A DYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT, OCCUPATIONAL CHOICES, AND JOB SEARCH*
Authors: Sullivan Paul
Published: February 2010

This article examines career choices using a dynamic structural model that nests a job search model within a human capital model of occupational and educational choices. Wage growth occurs in the model because workers move between firms and occupations as they search for suitable job matches and because workers endogenously accumulate firm and occupation specific human capital. Simulations performed using the estimated model reveal that both self‐selection in occupational choices and mobility between firms account for a much larger share of total earnings and utility than the combined effects of firm and occupation specific human capital.
Role of Synchrotron infra red microspectroscopy in studying epidermotropism of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: El Bedewi A , El Anany G , El Mofty M
Published: February 2010

Background  The molecular mechanisms of epidermotropism in mycosis fungoides (MF) are not well understood to date.

Objectives  The aim of this study was to differentiate between epidermal and dermal lymphocytes within the skin of MF patients.

Methods  This study was done on 10 MF patients with a mean age of 50 years diagnosed clinically in the Department of Dermatology, Cairo University, Egypt. A 6 mm biopsy was taken from each patient in order to confirm the diagnosis. Skin biopsies were cut, put on low e‐slides and then stained with H&E. Further examination with Synchrotron infrared (IR) microspectroscopy was done in National Synchrotron Light Source – Brookhaven National Laboratory, New York, USA. Immunophenotyping using antibodies CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20 and CD30 was also done. Statistical analysis was done by Student's t‐test and cluster analysis.

Results  Both epidermal and dermal lymphocytes were clustered separately. Also, Amide I and RNA and DNA within the lymphocytes were significantly different between the epidermis and the dermis.

Conclusions  The biochemical analysis of protein, RNA and DNA with Synchrotron IR microspectroscopy is a promising tool for studying epidermotropism in cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma.
Aggravating factors for melasma: a prospective study in 197 Tunisian patients
Authors: Guinot C , Cheffai S , Latreille J , Dhaoui MA , Youssef S , Jaber K , Nageotte O , Doss N
Published: February 2010

Background  Melasma is a frequent cause of consultations at dermatology departments by dark‐skinned patients in Tunisia.

Objective  To investigate factors that influence melasma severity in a large Tunisian population.

Methods  A total of 197 patients (188 women and 9 men), who attended Tunis Military Hospital for a consultation were included prospectively from August 2005 to August 2006. Disease severity was estimated using the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI). Aggravating factors were investigated using multiple logistic regressions.

Results  Of the women included, 14% presented phototype III, 45% phototype IV and 41% phototype V; 76% presented a centrofacial melasma phenotype, 23% a malar and 1% a mandibular phenotype. About 60% developed melasma before thirty. Sun exposure was reported as a triggering factor by 51% of women and as an aggravating factor by 84%. Pregnancy was reported as an aggravating factor by 51% of women who had been pregnant, and oral contraceptive use reported by 38% of women exposed to oral contraceptives. The risk of severe melasma was about three times higher for women with age at onset under 30, phototype V and major lifetime sun exposure and about 8 times higher for women exposed to oral contraceptives.

Conclusion  This study identifies a number of factors associated with the severity of melasma. Further epidemiological studies in this type of population, in particular, to investigate triggering factors, are justified by the aesthetic damage caused by melasma in dark‐skinned patients, lack of efficacy of existing treatments, non‐compliance with photoprotection recommendations and the challenge of treatment.
Prevalence and prognostic value of cutaneous manifestations in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Farah C , Bulai Livideanu C , Jegu J , Paul C , Viraben R , Lamant L , Delavigne K , Adoue D , Laurent G , Beyne Rauzy O
Published: February 2010

Background  Skin manifestations associated with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) may reveal bone marrow transformation into acute myeloid leukaemia.

Objective  The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of skin manifestations associated with MDS. In addition, we evaluated the risk of acute myeloid leukaemia transformation associated with skin manifestations.

Methods  We studied a cohort of 157 patients with primary MDS followed up prospectively for a median of 44 months. Skin lesions were prospectively assessed as part of medical examination every 6 months by a board certified dermatologist. Survival analyses were performed to assess the association between the presence of skin lesions and the risk of acute myeloid leukaemia.

Results  Fifteen patients (9.55%) experienced skin lesions previously reported as associated with MDS. These were neutrophilic dermatosis (7, 4.46%), specific lesions (5, 3.18%), cutaneous vasculitis (2, 1.27%) and Behçet disease (1, 0.63%). Survival analysis showed that the risk of transformation into acute myeloid leukaemia was slightly but not significantly increased in patients with skin lesions as compared with patients without skin lesions with a relative risk of 2.08 (95% CI 0.92–4.67).

Conclusion  The prevalence of skin lesions, mostly neutrophilic dermatosis and specific lesions, is relatively high in patients with MDS. There is a trend for a higher risk of transformation into acute myeloid leukaemia in patients with skin lesions.
Hemopressins and other hemoglobin‐derived peptides in mouse brain: comparison between brain, blood, and heart peptidome and regulation in Cpefat/fat mice
Authors: Gelman Julia S. , Sironi Juan , Castro Leandro M. , Ferro Emer S. , Fricker Lloyd D.
Published: February 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 871–880.

Many hemoglobin‐derived peptides are present in mouse brain, and several of these have bioactive properties including the hemopressins, a related series of peptides that bind to cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Although hemoglobin is a major component of red blood cells, it is also present in neurons and glia. To examine whether the hemoglobin‐derived peptides in brain are similar to those present in blood and heart, we used a peptidomics approach involving mass spectrometry. Many hemoglobin‐derived peptides are found only in brain and not in blood, whereas all hemoglobin‐derived peptides found in heart were also seen in blood. Thus, it is likely that the majority of the hemoglobin‐derived peptides detected in brain are produced from brain hemoglobin and not erythrocytes. We also examined if the hemopressins and other major hemoglobin‐derived peptides were regulated in the Cpefat/fat mouse; previously these mice were reported to have elevated levels of several hemoglobin‐derived peptides. Many, but not all of the hemoglobin‐derived peptides were elevated in several brain regions of the Cpefat/fat mouse. Taken together, these findings suggest that the post‐translational processing of alpha and beta hemoglobin into the hemopressins, as well as other peptides, is up‐regulated in some but not all Cpefat/fat mouse brain regions.
Nicotine self‐administration differentially modulates glutamate and GABA transmission in hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus to enhance the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal response to stress
Authors: Yu Guoliang , Chen Hao , Wu Xingjun , Matta Shannon G. , Sharp Burt M.
Published: February 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)113, 919–929.

The mechanisms by which chronic nicotine self‐administration augments hypothalamo–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) responses to stress are only partially understood. Nicotine self‐administration alters neuropeptide expression in corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) neurons within paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and increases PVN responsiveness to norepinephrine during mild footshock stress. Glutamate and GABA also modulate CRF neurons, but their roles in enhanced HPA responsiveness to footshock during chronic self‐administration are unknown. We show that nicotine self‐administration augmented footshock‐induced PVN glutamate release, but further decreased GABA release. In these rats, intra‐PVN kynurenic acid, a glutamate receptor antagonist, blocked enhanced adrenocorticotropic hormone and corticosterone responses to footshock. In contrast, peri‐PVN kynurenic acid, which decreases activity of GABA afferents to PVN, enhanced footshock‐induced corticosterone secretion only in control rats self‐administering saline. Additionally, in rats self‐administering nicotine, footshock‐induced elevation of corticosterone was significantly less than in controls after intra‐PVN saclofen (GABA‐B receptor antagonist). Therefore, the exaggerated reduction in GABA release by footshock during nicotine self‐administration disinhibits CRF neurons. This disinhibition combined with enhanced glutamate input provides a new mechanism for HPA sensitization to stress by chronic nicotine self‐administration. This mechanism, which does not preserve homeostatic plasticity, supports the concept that smoking functions as a chronic stressor that sensitizes the HPA to stress.
YOU CAN USE MY NAME; YOU DON'T HAVE TO STEAL MY STORY – A CRITIQUE OF ANONYMITY IN INDIGENOUS STUDIES
Authors: SVALASTOG ANNA‐LYDIA , ERIKSSON STEFAN
Published: February 2010

Our claim in this paper is that not being identified as the data source might cause harm to a person or group. Therefore, in some cases the default of anonymisation should be replaced by a careful deliberation, together with research subjects, of how to handle the issues of identification and confidentiality. Our prime example in this article is community participatory research and similar endeavours on indigenous groups. The theme, content and aim of the research, and the question of how to handle property rights and ownership of research results, as well as who should be in charge of the research process, including the process of creating anonymity, should all be answered, before anonymity is accepted.
Deoxyuridine analog nucleotides in deoxycytidine analog treatment: secondary active metabolites?
Authors: Jansen Robert S , Rosing Hilde , Schellens Jan HM , Beijnen Jos H
Published: February 2010

Deoxycytidine analogs (dCa’s) are nucleosides widely used in anticancer and anti (retro) viral therapies. Intracellularly phosphorylated dCa anabolites are considered to be their main active metabolites. This article reviews the literature on the formation and pharmacological activity of deaminated dCa nucleotides. Most dCa’s are rapidly deaminated into deoxyuridine analogs (dUa’s) which are only slowly phosphorylated and therefore relatively inactive. dUa nucleotides are, however, also formed via deamination of dCa monophosphates by deoxycytidine monophosphate deaminase (dCMPD). dUa‐monophosphates can interact with thymidylate synthase (TS), whereas dUa‐triphosphates are incorporated into nucleic acids and interfere with polymerases. Administration of dCa’s as monophosphate prodrugs or co‐administration of the cytidine deaminase inhibitor tetrahydrouridine (THU) does not prevent dUa nucleotide formation which is, on the other hand, influenced by the dose and dCMPD activity. Taken together, these observations show that the formation of dUa nucleotides is a common phenomenon in treatment with dCa’s and these compounds may play a role in treatment outcome. We conclude that more attention should be given to these relatively unknown, but potentially important metabolites.
Sheet‐Metal Assessment at Medium Strain‐Rates by Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Broggiato G. B. , Ferrari D. , Fischer M. , Veglianti V.
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  The aim of the paper is to present an experimental test methodology able to investigate the strain‐rate influence on the mechanical behaviour of thin sheet metals at large strains. Dynamic tensile tests at medium strain rate were carried out using an electromechanical material testing machine and a specifically developed clamping device, which is able to create a traction pulse on the specimen by releasing the energy stored in a set of preloaded viscoelastic springs by means of the rupture of a sacrificial element. A numerical model of the testing system has been created to optimise the shape of the strain rate pulse. Due to sheet metal anisotropic behaviour, it is advisable to measure both axial and transverse strains and to assure that the stress field is purely axial. To fulfil both requirements, digital image correlation technique has been used for strain measurement on specimen surface. In fact, this method is capable to return full‐field maps of all in‐plane strain components. In addition, strain map analysis allows to detect when transverse stress components arise. To make use of image processing for strain and strain rate measurement, the specimen surface has been speckle‐prepared and, because of the dynamic nature of the phenomenon in exam, a high speed camera, able to grab and store 1024 × 1024 pixel images at 1000 fps, was used. To verify the functionality of the testing system, tests on DP 600 and AISI 304 steels have been run in which strain rates up to 150 s−1 have been reached.
Local Anisotropy and Elastic Properties in a Short Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composite
Authors: Cosmi F.
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  In short glass fibre reinforced polymers parts obtained by injection moulding, processing conditions produce complex orientation patterns that influence the mechanical properties of the component. In this work, the problem of whether a morphological description can be predictive of the elastic behaviour of these materials is addressed, with particular reference to the shell and core zones identified in a PA6‐GF 30 sample. Morphological parameters considered include fibre volume fraction, Mean Intercept Length (MIL) fabric tensor eigenvalues and principal directions. Apparent elastic moduli values in different sites within the sample were computed by simulations using a numerical model based on the Cell Method. Both morphological and numerical methods were able to capture the principal directions of anisotropy and the differences between shell and core and among the volumes of interest within each region. Even if the fabric tensor, normalised, eigenvalues did not show a significant correlation to the apparent elastic moduli, approximately 92% of stiffness components variance could be accounted for by changes in MIL eigenvalues once normalised values were used for elastic moduli as well.
Effect of Sodium Ascorbate and the Time Lapse before Cementation after Internal Bleaching on Bond Strength between Dentin and Ceramic
Authors: May Liliana G. , Salvia Ana C. R. , Souza Rodrigo O. A. , Michida Silvia M. A. , Valera Márcia C. , Takahashi Fernando E. , Bottino Marco Antonio
Published: February 2010

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of the elapsed time (ET) after nonvital bleaching (NVB) and sodium ascorbate application (10%) (SAA) on the shear bond strength of dentin to ceramic.

Materials and Methods: Bovine incisors were selected, internally bleached (35% carbamide peroxide) for 9 days and submitted to the following treatments (n = 10): G1, G2, G3—luting after 1, 7, and 14 days; G4, G5, and G6—luting after SAA, 1, 7, and 14 days, respectively. G7 and G8 were not bleached: G7—luting 24 hours after access cavity sealing; G8—luting 24 hours after access cavity sealing after SAA. After NVB, the vestibular dentin was exposed and flattened. The SAA was applied to the dentin (G4, G5, G6, G8) for 10 minutes, and it was then washed and dried. The dentin was etched (37% phosphoric acid), and an adhesive system (Single Bond 2) was applied. Feldspathic ceramic discs (VM7; 4‐mm diameter, 3‐mm thick) were luted with a dual‐resin agent (RelyX ARC, 3M ESPE Dental Products, St. Paul, MN). After 24 hours, specimens were submitted to shear test on a universal testing machine. The data (MPa) were submitted to ANOVA and Dunnet's test (5%).

Results: The means (± SD) obtained were (MPa): G1 (14 ± 4.5), G2 (14.6 ± 3.1), G3 (14 ± 3.7), G4 (15.5 ± 4.6), G5 (19.87 ± 4.5), G6 (16.5 ± 3.7), G7 (22.8 ± 6.2), and G8 (18.9 ± 5.4). SAA had a significant effect on bond strength (p= 0.0054). The effect of ET was not significant (p= 0.1519). G5 and G6 presented higher values than the other bleached groups (p < 0.05) and similar to G7 and G8 (p > 0.05).

Conclusions: After NVB, adhesive luting to dentin is recommended after 7 days if sodium ascorbate has been applied prior to dentin hybridization.
Five‐Year Follow‐Up Treatment of an Ectodermal Dysplasia Patient with Maxillary Anterior Composites and Mandibular Denture: A Clinical Report
Authors: Khazaie Reza , Berroeta Eva M. , Borrero Camila , Torbati Arman , Chee Winston
Published: February 2010

This clinical report describes the 5‐year follow‐up treatment of an 11‐year‐old boy with ectodermal dysplasia. The dentition was initially restored with a combination of maxillary anterior‐bonded composite restorations and a mandibular complete denture. This individualized approach allowed successful management of the patient.
An Unusual Case of Congenitally Unguarded Tricuspid Valve Orifice Associated with Pulmonary Valve Atresia and Intact Ventricular Septum
Authors: Takawira Farirai F. , Mitchell Belinda J. , Du Plessis Dirk J.
Published: February 2010

We report on a premature neonate who presented with cyanosis soon after birth. She was found on echocardiography to have an unguarded tricuspid valve orifice associated with pulmonary valve atresia and an intact interventricular septum. Owing to the small‐sized pulmonary arteries, she was initially managed conservatively with prostaglandin infusion, and at one year of age underwent a successful bidirectional cavo‐pulmonary (Glenn) shunt operation.

(ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY 2010;27:202‐204)
Pericardial Fat Masquerading as Tumor
Authors: Pressman Gregg , Verma Nitin
Published: February 2010

A 65‐year‐old woman was evaluated for fatigue, malaise, and atypical chest pain. One year prior she had undergone subtotal gastrectomy and jejunostomy in treatment of a large gastrointestinal stromal tumor. Two‐dimensional echocardiography was performed, which showed a small circumferential pericardial effusion with a soft tissue echo density attached to the right atrial/right ventricular junction that extended over the right ventricle. Because of concern about possible malignant disease, thoracoscopy and biopsy of the pericardial mass were recommended. Normal fibro‐adipose tissue was found with no evidence of neoplasm. Pericardial fat deposition is common in multiple conditions. It can be found in any location but is most common over the anterior portion of the heart. In this case, the concomitant presence of a small pericardial effusion and prominent fat pad at the right atrial/right ventricular junction gave the appearance of pericardial tumor. (Echocardiography 2010;27:E18‐E20)
A Sticky Situation
Authors: Friedman Mark , Ahuja Kartikya , Christian Ann J. , Taub Cynthia C.
Published: February 2010

(Echocardiography 2010;27:205)
Aortic Root Bentall Graft Disarticulation Following Repair of Type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Stiver Kevin , Bayram Melike , Orsinelli David
Published: February 2010

A 47‐year‐old man presented with chest pain and was found to have an ascending aortic dissection. He underwent aortic arch resection and replacement with a hemishield tube graft with a valve conduit, better known as the Bentall technique. Five months later he presented with shortness of breath. A transesophageal echocardiogram revealed near‐complete dehiscence of the mechanical valve conduit and a periaortic root abscess. He underwent removal of the conduit and placement of a homograft aortic root and valve. One month later he developed rigors. A transthoracic echocardiogram showed worsening systolic function and a periaortic hematoma or abscess. Serial transthoracic echocardiograms revealed increasing size in the periaortic echogenic free space and subsequent evidence of flow from the left ventricle into the periaortic space. He was determined not to be a surgical candidate and discharged to hospice in fair condition. He subsequently expired. (Echocardiography 2010;27:E27‐E29)
Aortic Tumor or Mobile Thrombus?
Authors: Loiselle Andrea , Agrwal Neera , Ingall Timothy J. , Chaliki Hari P.
Published: February 2010

Isolated large mobile mass in the thoracic aorta can be due to thrombus or, rarely, aortic tumor. We report the case of a 61‐year‐old man with no history of medical problems presenting with neurologic deficits and in whom a large mobile echogenic mass in the distal aortic arch was found with transesophageal echocardiography. Given his few cardiovascular risk factors and absence of other systemic symptoms, he received anticoagulant therapy. Subsequent resolution of the aortic mass suggested a diagnosis of thrombus. This case illustrates an unusual manifestation of aortic arch atherosclerosis and underscores the utility of transesophogeal echocardiography for patients with ischemic stroke. (Echocardiography 2010;27:E21‐E22)
Customized Exercise Echocardiography: Beyond Detection of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Shizukuda Yukitaka , Plummer Sandra L. , Harrelson Allan
Published: February 2010

Exercise echocardiography has been established as a reliable diagnostic tool for assessment of myocardial ischemia. However, more recent advances in its technique have expanded its routine clinical use to include quantification of exercise‐induced diastolic dysfunction, exercise‐induced pulmonary hypertension, and dynamic assessment of mitral and aortic valve function. The indications for exercise echocardiography have increased to include cardiac symptoms such as exertional dyspnea, fatigue, and limited exercise capacity. In light of its expanded capability for evaluating cardiovascular function, we believe that exercise echocardiography should be utilized in a new paradigm of personalized cardiology, in which we regularly investigate individual patient symptoms for endpoints beyond critical myocardial ischemia, for example, exercise‐induced pulmonary hypertension. We refer to this refocused use of exercise echocardiography as “customized exercise echocardiography.” In this review article, we present current scientific evidence to support our proposed role and discuss the logistical requirements for proper test performance of customized exercise echocardiography. (Echocardiography 2010;27:186‐194)
Perimembranous Ventricular Septal Defect and Gerbode Defect
Authors: Blanco Adolfo A. , Haddy Steven , Baker Craig J.
Published: February 2010

A 27‐year‐old male presented with a known history of congenital ventricular septal defect (VSD). A Gerbode‐type defect was discovered intraoperatively that was originally misinterpreted as pulmonary hypertension. The case report will review the Gerbode defect and the transesophageal echocardiography findings. It is important, in patients with history of perimembranous VSD, to consider Gerbode‐type defect when the tricuspid regurgitation jet velocity is high (Echocardiography 2010;27:215‐217)
Environmental Pollen Trapped by Tobacco Leaf as Indicators of the Provenance of Counterfeit Cigarette Products: A Preliminary Investigation and Test of Concept
Authors: Donaldson Margaret P. , Stephens William E.
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  The global trade in counterfeit tobacco products is increasingly taking market share from legal brands in many parts of the developed world, with attendant adverse economic, health, criminal, and other societal impacts. Knowing the geographical source is central to developing new strategies for curbing this illicit trade, and here, the potential of environmental pollen extracted from manufactured cigarettes is examined. Two samples representing U.S. and Chinese brands were investigated for their pollen content. Results indicate that tobacco leaf very efficiently captures environmental pollen (about 1800 and 12,600 grains per cigarette, respectively) with no detectable self‐contamination by the tobacco plant. In both cases, the flora is typical of open space environments, but pollen type counts indicate very different distributions of species. This preliminary investigation indicates that palynology has the potential to constrain geographical source(s) of tobacco, particularly if regionally localized species can be recognized among the pollen.
DETECHIP®: A Sensor for Drugs of Abuse*
Authors: Burks Raychelle M. , Pacquette Shari E. , Guericke Mike A. , Wilson Mark V. , Symonsbergen David J. , Lucas Kerry A. , Holmes Andrea E.
Published: February 2010

Abstract: The design and preliminary characterization of a novel sensor for drugs of abuse, DETECHIP®, is described in this proof‐of‐concept note. Combining both colorimetric and fluorimetric assays, DETECHIP®is suitable for lab and field use. More than a conventional spot test which provides a single “yes or no” answer, DETECHIP®provides twenty responses for a more complete characterization of suspect material. This is accomplished by visually noting colorimetric and fluorescent changes of carefully selected dyes upon the addition of test analytes, including drugs of abuse, with respect to controls. Color and fluorescence changes are recorded numerically so that a 20 digit identification code can be constructed for comparison of test analytes and known compounds. DETECHIP®is applicable to a variety of drugs, both plant‐derived and synthetic, addressing the need to use several different spot tests simultaneously for a single sample.
Age Estimation by Racemization Method in Teeth: Application of Aspartic Acid, Glutamate, and Alanine
Authors: Arany Szilvia , Ohtani Susumu
Published: February 2010

Abstract: Here, we report on an experimental approach of simultaneous determination of various amino acids racemization (AAR) rates in teeth. We evaluated the measurements of aspartic acid (Asp), glutamate (Glu), and alanine (Ala) isolated from dentin. Asx D/L rates from total amino acid fraction, generally used for age estimation, showed high correlation (r = 0.98) with age. As Glx and Ala showed very slow racemization kinetics in TA, we performed further analysis of the acid‐soluble protein (SP) fraction. The results supported improved correlation between age and D/L rates for Glu (r = 0.84) and Ala (r = 0.85), as well as for Asp (r = 0.98). By providing further elucidation on dentin protein racemization, the technique offers a considerable opportunity to involve other amino acids in age estimation studies. As the process does not require additional separation steps, the method can be easily adapted to existing protocols.
Evaluation of Tamm‐Horsfall Protein and Uroplakin III for Forensic Identification of Urine
Authors: Akutsu Tomoko , Ikegaya Hiroshi , Watanabe Ken , Fukushima Hisayo , Motani Hisako , Iwase Hirotaro , Sakurada Koichi
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  In this study, Tamm‐Horsfall protein (THP), a major component of urinary protein, and uroplakin III (UPIII), a transmembrane protein widely regarded as a urothelium‐specific marker, were evaluated for forensic identification of urine by ELISA and/or immunohistochemistry. THP was detected in urine, but not in plasma, saliva, semen, vaginal fluid, or sweat by the simple ELISA method developed in this study. In addition, most aged urine stains showed positive results. The urine specificity of THP was confirmed by gene expression analysis. Therefore, as reported previously, ELISA detection of THP can be used as a presumptive test for urine identification. UPIII was specific for immunohistochemical staining of cells in centrifuged precipitate of urine. However, ELISA and RT‐PCR for UPIII were not specific for urine. UPIII may be applicable for forensic urine identification by immunohistochemistry.
The 10‐year course of psychosocial functioning among patients with borderline personality disorder and axis II comparison subjects
Authors: Zanarini M. C. , Frankenburg F. R. , Reich D. Bradford , Fitzmaurice G.
Published: February 2010

Zanarini MC, Frankenburg FR, Bradford Reich D, Fitzmaurice G. The 10‐year course of psychosocial functioning among patients with borderline personality disorder and axis II comparison subjects.

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to determine the 10‐year course of the psychosocial functioning of patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Method:  The social and vocational functioning of 290 inpatients meeting both the Revised Diagnostic Interview for Borderlines (DIB‐R) and DSM‐III‐R criteria for BPD and 72 axis II comparison subjects were carefully assessed during their index admission. Psychosocial functioning was reassessed using similar methods at five contiguous 2‐year time periods.

Results:  Borderline patients without good psychosocial functioning at baseline reported difficulty attaining it for the first time. Those who had such functioning at baseline reported difficulty retaining and then regaining it. In addition, over 90% of their poor psychosocial functioning was due to poor vocational but not social performance.

Conclusion:  Good psychosocial functioning that involves both social and vocational competence is difficult for borderline patients to achieve and maintain over time. In addition, their vocational functioning is substantially more compromised than their social functioning.