bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Up- and down-regulation of angiotensin II AT1-A and AT1-B receptors in afferent and efferent rat kidney arterioles
Authors: Razga Zsolt , Nyengaard Jens Randel
Published: January 2009

Introduction. The contractile effect of angiotensin II via AT1 receptors on the kidney arterioles is a crucial element in the kidney microcirculation.Angiotensin II also plays a role as an inhibitor via the AT1 receptors in the renin granulation of the arterioles.We have previously demonstrated that the AT1 receptors are downregulated in the renin-positive smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in contrast to renin-negative SMCs. In this study, we estimated the numbers of the AT1 receptor sub-types separately in the afferent and efferent arterioles and the renin-positive and renin-negative SMCs.

Methods. The immunohistochemical signals of theAT1-A and AT1-B receptors were counted by stereological methods.1

Results. The number of AT1-B receptors in the efferent arterioles (expressed in signals/µm 3; mean (CV): 0.32 (0.33)) was significantly higher (78%; p<0.05) as compared with the number in the afferent arterioles (0.18 (0.11)). No differences were found in the AT1-A receptors. In a number ofAT 1-A receptors, significant differences (p<0.01) were detected between the afferent arteriolar renin-positive SMCs (0.13 (0.36)) and the number in renin-negative SMCs (0.25 (0.34)).The AT1-B receptors did not display any differences.

Conclusions. These results indicate that the AT1 receptor sub-types are regulated independently in the SMCs of the normal kidney arterioles.
The Dynamics of Performance Over the Duration of Major League Baseball Long-Term Contracts
Authors: Krautmann Anthony C. , Solow John L.
Published: January 2009

We re-examine incentives in Major League Baseball contracts by considering performance over the duration of the contract. We consider both the incentive to perform in order to maximize the subsequent contract and the disincentive of a fixed salary. We isolate the effect of the latter by controlling for the probability that the contract is the player's last. We find that players who are less likely to sign a subsequent contract have a large and statistically significant reduction in performance compared to expectations. The incentive to perform well in anticipation of signing the next contract is equally large and offsetting so that players who expect to sign another contract largely perform to expectations.
Analyzing the Relationship Between Team Success and MLB Attendance With GARCH Effects
Authors: Davis Michael C.
Published: January 2009

This research extends the analysis of the importance of winning on attendance. The author assumes that fan's reactions differ across teams and estimates separate attendance models for each Major League Baseball team in the sample. Results from generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) models indicate winning is an important determinant of attendance for the 12 National League teams in the sample, although some variation exists in the magnitude of the effect across teams. Results from the GARCH models are similar in magnitude to results from other alternative estimation procedures. The study also finds a boost in attendance from playing an interleague opponent.
NCAA ``Point Shaving'' as an Artifact of the Regression Effect and the Lack of Tie Games
Authors: Johnson Neal
Published: January 2009

Wolfers concluded that point shaving may occur in 6% of NCAA Division I basketball games involving a team favored by more than 12 points. His analysis is flawed on two counts. First, a regression effect is introduced when the definition of a strong favorite is based on the betting market's estimate of the winning margin. Second, the effect that a lack of tie games has on the resulting distribution of game outcomes relative to the Vegas spread is mistaken as a shift in the distribution because of point shaving. When combined, the regression effect and the lack of ties generate the observed data patterns. Numerical analysis indicates that even if the betting market makes unbiased estimates of the winning margin, an error with a standard deviation of 1.35 points is sufficient to generate the observed data pattern.
Globalization and Factor Mobility
Authors: Frick Bernd
Published: January 2009

Since the 1960s, increasing numbers of football players from Eastern Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia have been migrating to the top leagues in Western Europe (England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain). This development has been massively fostered by the ``Bosman ruling'' of the European Court of Justice in December 1995. Perhaps surprisingly, the decreasing playing time that is now available to ``local players'' has not yet resulted in an increasing competitive balance of the national teams of countries importing players and those exporting players.
Cross-Cultural Similarities and Differences in Characteristics Attributed to Entrepreneurs
Authors: Gupta Vishal , Fernandez Cheryl
Published: January 2009

This study examines characteristics attributed to entrepreneurs in three countries and identifies similarities and differences in entrepreneurial characteristics across countries. Business students ( N = 424) from India, Turkey, and the United States rated 92 descriptors of human attributes and behaviors. For each attribute, respondents rated how characteristic it was of an entrepreneur. We found that though some characteristics were attributed to entrepreneurs across national cultures, there were also important differences in characteristics attributed to entrepreneurs in the three cultures. Following from prior literature, we did not assume the North American perspective of the entrepreneur as universal, allowing us to better understand how people in different cultures view entrepreneurs. The identification of country-specific entrepreneurship concepts can be useful for researchers interested in studying entrepreneurship internationally and practitioners interested in encouraging and training entrepreneurs in different countries. Implications of our findings and directions for future research are discussed.
Authentic Leadership and Positive Psychological Capital
Authors: Clapp-Smith Rachel , Vogelgesang Gretchen R. , Avey James B.
Published: January 2009

This study investigates the relationship between authentic leadership, trust, positive psychological capital (PsyCap), and performance at the group level of analysis. Data were collected from a small Midwestern chain of retail clothing stores, a context in which the needs for both authentic leadership and a positive sales staff are integral to the firm's performance. Constructs were aggregated to the store (group) level to test relationships between perceptions of authentic leadership, trust in management, positive psychological capital, and performance. Trust in management was found to mediate the relationship between PsyCap and performance and to partially mediate the relationship between authentic leadership and performance. Future discussions and implications are discussed.
Prospective Study of Ambulation After Open and Laparoscopic Colorectal Resection
Authors: Lin Jennifer H. , Whelan Richard L. , Sakellarios Nicholas E. , Cekic Vesna , Forde Kenneth A. , Bank Jonathan , Feingold Daniel L.
Published: January 2009

Purpose. Open and laparoscopic surgical approaches each have specific advantages. This study compares ambulation, hospital length of stay (LOS), and incision length after open and laparoscopic colorectal resection. Methods. All consecutive patients undergoing colorectal resection over a 2 year period ending August 2002 were followed prospectively. Ambulation, LOS, and incision length were recorded. Hybrid low anterior resection (LAR) patients had laparoscopic splenic flexure takedown, vessel ligation, and proximal rectal mobilization followed by planned inferior laparotomy to complete the case. Groups were compared using Student's t test. Results. Equivalent open and laparoscopic groups were comparable in terms of gender, age, body mass index, ASA class, indication for operation, and resection performed. Seventy open colectomy patients were compared with 99 laparoscopic-assisted colectomy patients. On average, patients in the open and laparoscopic groups ambulated 67 and 390 feet, respectively, on postoperative day 1 ( P < .001), 290 and 752 feet on day 2 ( P < .001), and 495 and 965 feet on day 3 ( P < .001). The average LOS in the open group was 9.3 days compared with 5.9 days in the laparoscopic group ( P < .001). The average incision length in the open group was 19.7 cm compared with 5.3 cm in the laparoscopic group ( P < .001). Seventeen open LAR patients were compared with 30 hybrid LAR patients. On average, patients in the open and hybrid groups ambulated 22 and 150 feet, respectively, on postoperative day 1 ( P = .003), 105 and 433 feet on day 2 ( P = .003), and 369 and 488 feet on day 3 ( P = .43). The average LOS in the open group was 10 days compared with 8.5 days in the hybrid group ( P = .46). The average incision length in the open group was 19.8 cm compared with 10.8 cm in the hybrid group ( P < .001). When all 216 patients were considered, the 91 patients with incisions shorter than 8 cm (average 4.6 cm) ambulated 396, 752, and 956 feet on consecutive days whereas the 125 patients with incisions 8 cm or longer (average 16.9 cm, P < .001) ambulated 101, 334, and 521 feet on consecutive days (all P values <.001). Average LOS in the <8-cm group was 6 days compared with 8.9 days in the ≥8-cm group ( P < .001). Conclusions. Patients undergoing minimal-access colorectal surgery ambulated significantly further than equivalent open patients in the early postoperative period and had a shorter LOS.
120-Day Comparative Analysis of Adhesion Grade and Quantity, Mesh Contraction, and Tissue Response to a Novel Omega-3 Fatty Acid Bioabsorbable Barrier Macroporous Mesh After Intraperitoneal Placement
Authors: Pierce Richard A. , Perrone Juan M. , Nimeri Abdelrahman , Sexton Jennifer A. , Walcutt Julie , Frisella Margaret M. , Matthews Brent D.
Published: January 2009

Purpose. This study aimed to evaluate adhesion formation, mesh contraction, and tissue response to an omega-3 fatty acid barrier—coated lightweight polypropylene mesh (C-Qur) after intra-abdominal placement, and compare these properties to those of other commercially available meshes. Materials and methods. After randomization, 3 × 3 cm pieces of Atrium C-Qur, Mesh ProLite Ultra, Composix, Parietex, Proceed, Sepramesh, and DualMesh were sewn to the intact peritoneum on either side of a midline incision in 41 New Zealand white rabbits. Necropsy was performed at 120 days, and explants were evaluated for adhesion grade, adhesion amount, and mesh contraction. Histologic evaluation included extent of capsule formation, abdominal wall tissue ingrowth, degrees of inflammation and vascularization of the surrounding tissue, and the presence of mesothelialization. Results. There were no significant differences between the C-Qur mesh and the commercially available meshes tested with regard to adhesion grade or amount, although percentage adhesion coverage for the C-Qur mesh was much less than for Composix and Proceed. The C-Qur mesh contracted less than all meshes, significantly less ( P < .05) than DualMesh or Proceed. DualMesh exhibited the greatest amount of capsule formation and inflammation on its parietal side as compared with the other meshes. Conclusions. Placing lightweight polypropylene mesh with an omega-3 fatty acid barrier coating intraperitoneally results in more favorable adhesion characteristics compared with Composix and Proceed meshes at 120-day explantation after intraperitoneal placement. The minimal amount of contraction and favorable tissue response in comparison to other commercially available meshes makes C-Qur mesh a practical alternative for laparoscopic and open ventral hernia repair.
Lost in NSM Translation
Authors: Strauss Claudia
Published: January 2009

My commentary poses two questions for Wierzbicka: one about her semantic theory, the other about her theory of emotions.
Mad, Bad, and Beyond: Iago Meets Qü Yuan
Authors: Sundararajan Louise
Published: January 2009

This commentary offers an alternative interpretation of Iago's resentment based on clinical psychology and a cross-cultural perspective, thereby revisiting the fundamental question of what is emotion.
On Literary Works as Simulations that Run on Minds
Authors: Reisenzein Rainer
Published: January 2009

This commentary discusses Oatley's proposal that literary works considered as simulations that run on minds can fulfill similar epistemic functions as computer simulations of mental processes. Whereas in computer simulation, both the input data and the computations to be performed on these data are explicit, only the input is explicitly known in the case of mental simulation. For this reason, literary simulations cannot play exactly the same epistemic role as computer simulations. Still, literary simulations can provide knowledge (e.g., about the phenomenal quality of emotions or about possible emotional dynamics) that is relevant for emotion science: it adds to the corpus of facts about emotions that need to be explained, and it may suggest hypotheses about the constitution of the mechanisms that generate emotions. In addition, the hypotheses suggested by a literary simulation can be tested in new mental simulations. However, at least for the purpose of hypothesis testing, the simulation of a multiplicity of experimentally manipulated scenarios should be more revealing than that of a single literary work describing only one possible course of events.
How the Object of Affect Guides its Impact
Authors: Clore Gerald L. , Huntsinger Jeffrey R.
Published: January 2009

In this article, we examine how affect influences judgment and thought, but also how thought transforms affect. The general thesis is that the nature and impact of affective reactions depends largely on their objects. We view affect as a representation of value, and its consequences as dependent on its object or what it is about. Within a review of relevant literature and a discussion of the nature of emotion, we focus on the role of the object of affect in governing both the nature of emotional reactions and the impact of affect and emotion on cognition and action. Although emotion is always about the here and now, the capacity for abstract thought means that the human here and now includes imagination as well as perception. Indeed, the hopes and fears that dominate human lives often involve things only imagined.
New and Improved, but Still Cold and Symbolic
Authors: Winkielman Piotr
Published: January 2009

My commentary applauds the authors' cognitive framework for capturing the inferential complexity and flexibility of emotion processing. The framework offers generative powers, as demonstrated by new studies, and an insightful perspective on classic studies. However, at the core, the framework is still symbolic and cold—reflecting its origins in amodal views of the mind. This leads to two troubles. First, the framework cannot incorporate evidence for embodied, modal processing of emotion. Second, the framework overemphasizes conceptual and conscious processing, leading to dismissal of unconscious emotion. I question whether simply updating a symbolic cognitive framework is sufficient to capture the recent empirical and theoretical developments in emotion research. It might be time for a new modal and embodied theory of emotion.
More on the Social Sharing of Emotion: In Defense of the Individual, of Culture, of Private Disclosure, and in Rebuttal of an Old Couple of Ghosts Known as “Cognition and Emotion”
Authors: Rimé Bernard
Published: January 2009

Though the commentaries on my review welcomed its focus on the social dimension of emotion and emotion regulation, they also revealed important misinterpretation. The social standpoint was not developed at the expense of the individual. On the contrary, this perspective is in line with dynamic emotions systems views. Despite variations in modalities, I argue that emotion sharing is universal because it concerns culturally-shaped knowledge and constructions when they are shattered by emotional events. Predictions regarding the recovery effects of private disclosure are formulated, particularly in reference to the notions of speech styles and psychological differentiation. Finally, differentiating cognition and emotion is becoming more and more foggy and I agree that the time has come for new, less fuzzy, concepts.
Varieties of Emotional Experience: Differences in Object or Computation?
Authors: Cunningham William A. , Van Bavel Jay J.
Published: January 2009

Discovering the taxonomies that best describe emotional experience has been surprisingly challenging. Clore and Huntsinger propose that by exploring the objects of emotion, such as standards or actions, we may better understand differences in emotion that emerge for similarly valenced reactions. We are sympathetic to this idea, although we suggest here that greater attention should be given to the computations that accompany affective processing, such as the discrepancy between different hedonic states, rather than the object per se.
Effects of heat treatment processes on microstructure and properties of 2·25Cr–1Mo–0·25V HSLA steels
Authors: Fu R. D. , Wu S. F. , Zhou W. H. , Zhang W. H. , Yang Y. Q. , Zhang F. C.
Published: January 2009

In the present paper, the effects of the heat treatment processes with two conditioning treatments and four quenching–tempering processes on the mechanical properties of 2·25Cr–1Mo–0·25V high strength low alloyed (HSLA) steel are investigated. The results show that the conditioning treatments have obvious effects on the low temperature impact energy but little effect on the tensile strength. The elevation of the final austenitising temperature increases the strength, whereas it results in the decrease in the low temperature impact energy due to the coarse microstructure. The results of the fracture surfaces analysis further make sure that the fracture surfaces of tensile specimens all exhibit ductile characters with a lot of dimples. However, the fracture surfaces of impact specimens exhibit two typical fracture characters, i.e. the ductile and brittle fracture surface corresponding to the fine and coarse microstructures respectively. In addition, the elongation and reduction in area seem to be insensitive to the heat treatments. Meanwhile, the impact fracture mode is more sensitive to the grain size and not to the low temperature impact energy.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for core binding factor acute myeloid leukemia: t(8;21) and inv(16) represent different clinical outcomes
Authors: Kuwatsuka Yachiyo , Miyamura Koichi , Suzuki Ritsuro , Kasai Masaharu , Maruta Atsuo , Ogawa Hiroyasu , Tanosaki Ryuji , Takahashi Satoshi , Koda Kyuhei , Yago Kazuhiro , Atsuta Yoshiko , Yoshida Takashi , Sakamaki Hisashi , Kodera Yoshihisa
Published: January 2009

We analyzed 338 adult patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with t(8;21) and inv(16) undergoing stem cell transplantation (SCT) who were registered in the Japan Society for Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation database. At 3 years, overall survival (OS) of patients with t(8;21) and inv(16) was 50% and 72%, respectively (P = .002). Although no difference was observed when restricted to allogeneic SCT in first complete remission (CR; 84% and 74%), OS of patients with t(8;21) and inv(16) undergoing allogeneic SCT in second or third CR (45% and 86% at 3 years; P = .008) was different. OS was not different between patients in first CR who received allogeneic SCT and those who received autologous SCT for both t(8;21) AML (84% vs 77%; P = .49) and inv(16) AML (74% vs 59%; P = .86). Patients with inv(16) not in CR did better after allogeneic SCT than those with t(8;21) (70% and 18%; P = .03). Patients with t(8;21) and inv(16) should be managed differently as to the application of SCT. SCT in first CR is not necessarily recommended for inv(16). For t(8;21) patients in first CR, a prospective trial is needed to clarify the significance of autologous SCT and allogeneic SCT over chemotherapy.
Improved outcome of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation due to breastfeeding-induced tolerance to maternal antigens
Authors: Aoyama Kazutoshi , Koyama Motoko , Matsuoka Ken-ichi , Hashimoto Daigo , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Harada Mine , Akashi Koichi , Tanimoto Mitsune , Teshima Takanori
Published: January 2009

Exposure of offspring to noninherited maternal antigens (NIMAs) during pregnancy may have an impact on transplantations performed later in life. Using a mouse model, we recently showed that bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from NIMA-exposed offspring to the mother led to a reduction of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). Since offspring can also be exposed to NIMAs by breastfeeding after birth, we tested whether breast milk could mediate the tolerogenic NIMA effect. We found that oral exposure to NIMAs by breastfeeding alone was sufficient to reduce GVHD, and that in utero exposure to NIMAs is required for maximum reduction of GVHD. The tolerogenic milk effects disappeared when donor mice were injected with CD25 monoclonal antibodies during the lactation period, suggesting a CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cell–dependent mechanism. Our results suggest a previously unknown impact of breastfeeding on the outcome of transplantation.
p21-activated kinase regulates mast cell degranulation via effects on calcium mobilization and cytoskeletal dynamics
Authors: Allen Jayme D. , Jaffer Zahara M. , Park Su-Jung , Burgin Sarah , Hofmann Clemens , Sells Mary Ann , Chen Shi , Derr-Yellin Ethel , Michels Elizabeth G. , McDaniel Andrew , Bessler Waylan K. , Ingram David A. , Atkinson Simon J. , Travers Jeffrey B. , Chernoff Jonathan , Clapp D. Wade
Published: January 2009

Mast cells are key participants in allergic diseases via activation of high-affinity IgE receptors (FcϵRI) resulting in release of proinflammatory mediators. The biochemical pathways linking IgE activation to calcium influx and cytoskeletal changes required for intracellular granule release are incompletely understood. We demonstrate, genetically, that Pak1 is required for this process. In a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis experiment, Wsh/Wsh mast cell–deficient mice locally reconstituted with Pak1−/− bone marrow–derived mast cells (BMMCs) experienced strikingly decreased allergen-induced vascular permeability compared with controls. Consistent with the in vivo phenotype, Pak1−/− BMMCs exhibited a reduction in FcϵRI-induced degranulation. Further, Pak1−/− BMMCs demonstrated diminished calcium mobilization and altered depolymerization of cortical filamentous actin (F-actin) in response to FcϵRI stimulation. These data implicate Pak1 as an essential molecular target for modulating acute mast cell responses that contribute to allergic diseases.
Genome sequence analysis of Helicobacter pylori strains associated with gastric ulceration and gastric cancer
Authors: McClain Mark S , Shaffer Carrie L , Israel Dawn A , Peek Richard M , Cover Timothy L
Published: January 2009

Background

Persistent colonization of the human stomach byHelicobacter pyloriis associated with asymptomatic gastric inflammation (gastritis) and an increased risk of duodenal ulceration, gastric ulceration, and non-cardia gastric cancer. In previous studies, the genome sequences ofH. pyloristrains from patients with gastritis or duodenal ulcer disease have been analyzed. In this study, we analyzed the genome sequences of anH. pyloristrain (98-10) isolated from a patient with gastric cancer and anH. pyloristrain (B128) isolated from a patient with gastric ulcer disease.

Results

Based on multilocus sequence typing, strain 98-10 was most closely related toH. pyloristrains of East Asian origin and strain B128 was most closely related to strains of European origin. Strain 98-10 contained multiple features characteristic of East Asian strains, including a type s1cvacAallele and acagAallele encoding an EPIYA-D tyrosine phosphorylation motif. A core genome of 1237 genes was present in all five strains for which genome sequences were available. Among the 1237 core genes, a subset of alleles was highly divergent in the East Asian strain 98-10, encoding proteins that exhibited <90% amino acid sequence identity compared to corresponding proteins in the other four strains. Unique strain-specific genes were identified in each of the newly sequenced strains, and a set of strain-specific genes was shared amongH. pyloristrains associated with gastric cancer or premalignant gastric lesions.

Conclusion

These data provide insight into the diversity that exists amongH. pyloristrains from diverse clinical and geographic origins. Highly divergent alleles and strain-specific genes identified in this study may represent useful biomarkers for analyzing geographic partitioning ofH. pyloriand for identifying strains capable of inducing malignant or premalignant gastric lesions.
Mining for single nucleotide polymorphisms in pig genome sequence data
Authors: Kerstens Hindrik HD , Kollers Sonja , Kommadath Arun , del Rosario Marisol , Dibbits Bert , Kinders Sylvia M , Crooijmans Richard P , Groenen Martien AM
Published: January 2009

Background

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are ideal genetic markers due to their high abundance and the highly automated way in which SNPs are detected and SNP assays are performed. The number of SNPs identified in the pig thus far is still limited.

Results

A total of 4.8 million whole genome shotgun sequences obtained from the NCBI trace-repository with center name "SDJVP", and project name "Sino-Danish Pig Genome Project" were analysed for the presence of SNPs. Available BAC and BAC-end sequences and their naming and mapping information, all obtained from SangerInstitute FTP site, served as a rough assembly of a reference genome. In 1.2 Gb of pig genome sequence, we identified 98,151 SNPs in which one of the sequences in the alignment represented the polymorphism and 6,374 SNPs in which two sequences represent an identical polymorphism. To benchmark the SNP identification method, 163 SNPs, in which the polymorphism was represented twice in the sequence alignment, were selected and tested on a panel of three purebred boar lines and wild boar. Of these 163 in silico identified SNPs, 134 were shown to be polymorphic in our animal panel.

Conclusion

This SNP identification method, which mines for SNPs in publicly available porcine shotgun sequences repositories, provides thousands of high quality SNPs. Benchmarking in an animal panel showed that more than 80% of the predicted SNPs represented true genetic variation.
Cytokinesis is blocked in mammalian cells transfected with Chlamydia trachomatis gene CT223
Authors: Alzhanov Damir T , Weeks Sara K , Burnett Jeffrey R , Rockey Daniel D
Published: January 2009

Background

The chlamydiae alter many aspects of host cell biology, including the division process, but the molecular biology of these alterations remains poorly characterized. Chlamydial inclusion membrane proteins (Incs) are likely candidates for direct interactions with host cell cytosolic proteins, as they are secreted to the inclusion membrane and exposed to the cytosol. The inc gene CT223 is one of a sequential set of orfs that encode or are predicted to encode Inc proteins. CT223p is localized to the inclusion membrane in all tested C. trachomatis serovars.

Results

A plasmid transfection approach was used to examine the function of the product of CT223 and other Inc proteins within uninfected mammalian cells. Fluorescence microscopy was used to demonstrate that CT223, and, to a lesser extent, adjacent inc genes, are capable of blocking host cell cytokinesis and facilitating centromere supranumeracy defects seen by others in chlamydiae-infected cells. Both phenotypes were associated with transfection of plasmids encoding the carboxy-terminal tail of CT223p, a region of the protein that is likely exposed to the cytosol in infected cells.

Conclusion

These studies suggest that certain Inc proteins block cytokinesis in C. trachomatis-infected cells. These results are consistent with the work of others showing chlamydial inhibition of host cell cytokinesis.
Design of FitFor2 study: the effects of an exercise program on insulin sensitivity and plasma glucose levels in pregnant women at high risk for gestational diabetes
Authors: Oostdam Nicolette , van Poppel Mireille NM , Eekhoff Elisabeth MW , Wouters Maurice GAJ , van Mechelen Willem
Published: January 2009

Background

Pregnancy is a period in the life of women that is often associated with decreased daily physical activity and/or exercise. However, maintaining adequate levels of daily physical activity during pregnancy is important for mother and child. Studies suggest that moderate daily physical activity and exercise during pregnancy are associated with reductions in the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, at present, physical activity is not routinely advised to pregnant women at risk for gestational diabetes in the Netherlands. In FitFor2-study we aim to assess whether an exercise program can improve insulin sensitivity and fasting plasma glucose levels of women at high risk for gestational diabetes, assuming that this will lower their risk of gestational diabetes.

Methods

The FitFor2-study is a randomised controlled trial. Women who visit one of the participating hospitals or midwifery practices and who are at risk for gestational diabetes are eligible to participate. After baseline measurement they are randomly allocated to in the intervention or control group. The intervention group receives an exercise program twice a week in addition to usual care. The exercise program consist of aerobic and strength exercises and takes place under close supervision of a physiotherapist. Data are collected at 15, 24 and 32 weeks of pregnancy and 12 weeks after delivery. Primary maternal outcome measures are fasting plasma glucose and relative increase in insulin resistance. Primary neonatal outcome is birth weight. Secondary outcome measures are: maternal serum triglycerides, HDL, cholesterol, HbA1c, maternal weight gain during pregnancy, maternal physical activity level, foetal growth.

Discussion

If the FitFor2 intervention program proves to be effective, obstetricians and midwives should refer women at risk for GDM to a special exercise program. Exercise programs for pregnant women under supervision of an experienced trainer are already available in the Netherlands, and these programs could be adjusted easily for this target group. Furthermore, the costs of these programs should be refunded by including them in the basic health care cost reimbursement schemes.

Trial registration

NTR1139
Pancreatic and multiorgan resection with inferior vena cava reconstruction for retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Stauffer John A , Fakhre G Peter , Dougherty Marjorie K , Nakhleh Raouf E , Maples William J , Nguyen Justin H
Published: January 2009

Background

Inferior vena cava (IVC) leiomyosarcoma is a rare tumor of smooth muscle origin. It is often large by the time of diagnosis and may involve adjacent organs. A margin-free resection may be curative, but the resection must involve the tumor en bloc with the affected segment of vena cava and locally involved organs. IVC resection often requires vascular reconstruction, which can be done with prosthetic graft.

Case presentation

We describe a 39-year-old man with an IVC leiomyosarcoma that involved the adrenal gland, distal pancreas, and blood supply to the spleen and left kidney. Tumor excision involved en bloc resection of all involved organs with reimplantation of the right renal vein and reconstruction of the IVC with a polytetrafluoroethylene graft. The patient recovered without renal insufficiency, graft infection, or other complications. Follow-up abdominal imaging at 1 year showed a patent IVC graft and no locally recurrent tumor. Prosthetic graft provides a sufficient diameter and length for replacement conduit in extensive resection of IVC leiomyosarcoma.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first case of resection of an IVC sarcoma with prosthetic graft reconstruction in combination with pancreatic resection. Aggressive surgical resection including vascular reconstruction is warranted for select IVC tumors to achieve a potentially curative outcome.
Differential effects of 24-hydroxycholesterol and 27-hydroxycholesterol on β-amyloid precursor protein levels and processing in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Prasanthi Jaya RP , Huls Amber , Thomasson Sarah , Thompson Alex , Schommer Eric , Ghribi Othman
Published: January 2009

Background

Activation of the liver × receptors (LXRs) by exogenous ligands stimulates the degradation of β-amyloid 1–42 (Aβ42), a peptide that plays a central role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The oxidized cholesterol products (oxysterols), 24-hydroxycholesterol (24-OHC) and 27-hydroxycholesterol (27-OHC), are endogenous activators of LXRs. However, the mechanisms by which these oxysterols may modulate Aβ42 levels are not well known.

Results

We determined the effect of 24-OHC and/or 27-OHC on Aβ generation in SH-SY5Y cells. We found that while 27-OHC increases levels of Aβ42, 24-OHC did not affect levels of this peptide. Increased Aβ42 levels with 27-OHC are associated with increased levels of β-amyloid precursor protein (APP) as well as β-secretase (BACE1), the enzyme that cleaves APP to yield Aβ. Unchanged Aβ42 levels with 24-OHC are associated with increased levels of sAPPα, suggesting that 24-OHC favors the processing of APP to the non-amyloidogenic pathway. Interestingly, 24-OHC, but not 27-OHC, increases levels of the ATP-binding cassette transporters, ABCA1 and ABCG1, which regulate cholesterol transport within and between cells.

Conclusion

These results suggest that cholesterol metabolites are linked to Aβ42 production. 24-OHC may favor the non-amyloidogenic pathway and 27-OHC may enhance production of Aβ42 by upregulating APP and BACE1. Regulation of 24-OHC: 27-OHC ratio could be an important strategy in controlling Aβ42 levels in AD.
A visual data-mining methodology for seismic facies analysis: Part 1 — Testing and comparison with other unsupervised clustering methods
Authors: Marroquín Iván Dimitri , Brault Jean-Jules , Hart Bruce S.
Published: January 2009

Seismic facies analysis aims to identify clusters (groups) of similar seismic trace shapes, where each cluster can be considered to represent variability in lithology, rock properties, and/or fluid content of the strata being imaged. Unfortunately, it is not always clear whether the seismic data has a natural clustering structure. Cluster analysis consists of a family of approaches that have significant potential for classifying seismic trace shapes into meaningful clusters. The clustering can be performed using a supervised process (assigning a pattern to a predefined cluster) or an unsupervised process (partitioning a collection of patterns into groups without predefined clusters). We evaluate and compare different unsupervised clustering algorithms (e.g., partition, hierarchical, probabilistic, and soft competitive models) for pattern recognition based entirely on the characteristics of the seismic response. From validation results on simple data sets, we demonstrate that a self-organizing maps algorithm implemented in a visual data-mining approach outperforms all other clustering algorithms for interpreting the cluster structure. We apply this approach to 2D seismic models generated using a discrete, known number of different stratigraphic geometries. The visual strategy recovers the correct number of end-member seismic facies in the model tests, showing that it is suitable for pattern recognition in highly correlated and continuous seismic data.
A visual data-mining methodology for seismic facies analysis: Part 2 — Application to 3D seismic data
Authors: Marroquín Iván Dimitri , Brault Jean-Jules , Hart Bruce S.
Published: January 2009

A visual data-mining approach to unsupervised clustering analysis can be an effective tool for visualizing and understanding patterns inherent in seismic data (i.e., seismic facies). The unsupervised clustering analysis is completely data-driven, requiring no external information (e.g., well logs) to guide the seismic-trace classification. We demonstrate the application of the visual data-mining approach to seismic facies analysis on a real 3D seismic data volume. We select two stratigraphic intervals, the first including a Devonian pinnacle reef system and the second containing a Jurassic siliciclastic channel system. Both analyses show major stratigraphic features that can be defined in horizon slices or other types of visualization. However, the visual data-mining approach creates seismic facies maps with improved visual detail, distinguishing seismic trace-shape variability in the data. We also compare the facies maps with those obtained from a commercial package for seismic facies classification. Both approaches created similar facies maps, but the visual strategy better depicts subtle stratigraphic changes in the bodies being imaged, offering insight into the nature of these features.
Are Cancer-Related Decision Aids Effective? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: O'Brien Mary Ann , Whelan Timothy J. , Villasis-Keever Miguel , Gafni Amiram , Charles Cathy , Roberts Robin , Schiff Susan , Cai Wenjie
Published: January 2009

Purpose

Decision aids (DAs) have been developed to improve communication between health professionals and patients, and to involve patients in decisions about their health care. Cancer-related decisions can be difficult due to problems in communicating complex information about prognosis and the modest benefits of available treatments. We conducted a systematic review of cancer-related DAs.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of cancer-related DAs about screening, prevention, and treatment decision making were included. We completed a comprehensive literature search and conducted both qualitative and quantitative analyses. We also conducted a meta regression to explore heterogeneity of effect estimates.

Results

We identified 34 RCTs of DAs in a screening (n = 22 trials) or preventive/treatment (n = 12 trials) context. DAs significantly improved knowledge about screening options when compared to usual practice (weighted average effect size, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.73; P < .0001). A similar effect on knowledge was also found for preventive/treatment options (weighted average effect size, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.31 to 0.70; P < .0001). Overall, general anxiety was not increased in most trials and was significantly reduced in a screening context. Decisional conflict was reduced overall but not when screening and preventive/treatment studies were analyzed separately. There were few differences between different types of DAs.

Conclusion

Cancer-related DAs are effective in increasing patient knowledge compared with usual practice without increasing anxiety particularly in the area of cancer screening. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of DAs in the prevention and treatment context.
Accelerated Telomere Shortening Precedes Development of Therapy-Related Myelodysplasia or Acute Myelogenous Leukemia After Autologous Transplantation for Lymphoma
Authors: Chakraborty Sujata , Sun Can-Lan , Francisco Liton , Sabado Melanie , Li Liang , Chang Karen L. , Forman Stephen , Bhatia Smita , Bhatia Ravi
Published: January 2009

Purpose

Therapy-related myelodysplasia or acute myelogenous leukemia (t-MDS/AML) is a lethal complication of autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (aHCT) for Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Here, we investigated the hypothesis that accelerated telomere shortening after aHCT could contribute to the development of t-MDS/AML.

Patients and Methods

A prospective longitudinal cohort was constructed to investigate the sequence of cellular and molecular abnormalities leading to development of t-MDS/AML after aHCT for HL/NHL. This cohort formed the sampling frame for a nested case-control study to compare changes in telomere length in serial blood samples from patients who developed t-MDS/AML with matched controls who did not develop t-MDS/AML.

Results

An initial increase in telomere length at day 100 after aHCT was followed by an accelerated telomere shortening in t-MDS/AML patients when compared with controls. These telomere alterations preceded the onset of t-MDS and were independent of other known risk factors associated with development of t-MDS/AML on multivariate analysis. Additionally, we observed reduced generation of committed progenitors in patients who developed t-MDS/AML, indicating that these telomere alterations were associated with reduced regenerative capacity of hematopoietic stem cells.

Conclusion

The development of t-MDS/AML after aHCT is associated with and preceded by markedly altered telomere dynamics in hematopoietic cells. Accelerated telomere loss in patients developing t-MDS/AML may reflect increased clonal proliferation and/or altered telomere regulation in premalignant cells. Genetic instability associated with shortened telomeres may contribute to leukemic transformation in t-MDS/AML.
Evidence for Cure by Adjuvant Therapy in Colon Cancer: Observations Based on Individual Patient Data From 20,898 Patients on 18 Randomized Trials
Authors: Sargent Daniel , Sobrero Alberto , Grothey Axel , O'Connell Michael J. , Buyse Marc , Andre Thierry , Zheng Yan , Green Erin , Labianca Roberto , O'Callaghan Chris , Seitz Jean Francois , Francini Guido , Haller Daniel , Yothers Greg , Goldberg Richard , de Gramont Aimery
Published: January 2009

Purpose

Limited data are available on the time course of treatment failures (recurrence and/or death), the nature and duration of adjuvant treatment benefit, and long-term recurrence rates in patients with resected stage II and III colon cancer.

Methods

The data set assembled by the Adjuvant Colon Cancer Endpoints Group, a collection of individual patient data from 18 trials and more than 20,800 patients testing fluorouracil-based adjuvant therapy in patients with stage II or III colon cancer, was analyzed.

Results

A significant overall survival (OS) benefit of adjuvant therapy was consistent over the 8-year follow-up period. The risk of recurrence in patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy never exceeds that of control patients, signifying that adjuvant therapy cures some patients, as opposed to delaying recurrence. After 5 years, recurrence rates were less than 1.5% per year, and after 8 years, they were less than 0.5% per year. Significant disease-free survival (DFS) benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy was observed in the first 2 years. After 2 years, DFS rates in treated and control patients were not significantly different, and after 4 years, no trend toward benefit was demonstrated. This benefit was primarily driven by patients with stage III disease.

Conclusion

Adjuvant chemotherapy provides significant DFS benefit, primarily by reducing the recurrence rate, within the first 2 years of adjuvant therapy with some benefit in years 3 to 4, translating into long-term OS benefit. This reflects the curative role of chemotherapy in the adjuvant setting. After 5 years, recurrence rates in patients treated on clinical trials are low, and after 8 years, they are minimal; thus, long-term follow-up for recurrence is of little value.
Effects of E-Waste Regulation on New Product Introduction
Authors: Plambeck Erica , Wang Qiong
Published: January 2009

This paper investigates the impact of e-waste regulation on new product introduction in a stylized model of the electronics industry. Manufacturers choose the development time and expenditure for each new version of a durable product, which together determine its quality. Consumers purchase the new product and dispose of the last-generation product, which becomes e-waste. The price of a new product strictly increases with its quality and consumers' rational expectation about the time until the next new product will be introduced. “Fee-upon-sale” types of e-waste regulation cause manufacturers to increase their equilibrium development time and expenditure, and thus the incremental quality for each new product. As new products are introduced (and disposed of) less frequently, the quantity of e-waste decreases and, even excluding the environmental benefits, social welfare may increase. Consumers pay a higher price for each new product because they anticipate using it for longer, which increases manufacturers' profits. Unfortunately, existing “fee-upon-sale” types of e-waste regulation fail to motivate manufacturers to design for recyclability. In contrast, “fee-upon-disposal” types of e-waste regulation such as individual extended producer responsibility motivate design for recyclability but, in competitive product categories, fail to reduce the frequency of new product introduction.
Robust Management of Motion Uncertainty in Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy
Authors: Bortfeld Thomas , Chan Timothy C. Y. , Trofimov Alexei , Tsitsiklis John N.
Published: January 2009

Radiation therapy is subject to uncertainties that need to be accounted for when determining a suitable treatment plan for a cancer patient. For lung and liver tumors, the presence of breathing motion during treatment is a challenge to the effective and reliable delivery of the radiation. In this paper, we build a model of motion uncertainty using probability density functions that describe breathing motion, and provide a robust formulation of the problem of optimizing intensity-modulated radiation therapy. We populate our model with real patient data and measure the robustness of the resulting solutions on a clinical lung example. Our robust framework generalizes current mathematical programming formulations that account for motion, and gives insight into the trade-off between sparing the healthy tissues and ensuring that the tumor receives sufficient dose. For comparison, we also compute solutions to a nominal (no uncertainty) and margin (worst-case) formulation. In our experiments, we found that the nominal solution typically underdosed the tumor in the unacceptable range of 6% to 11%, whereas the robust solution underdosed by only 1% to 2% in the worst case. In addition, the robust solution reduced the total dose delivered to the main organ-at-risk (the left lung) by roughly 11% on average, as compared to the margin solution.
Cross-Selling in a Call Center with a Heterogeneous Customer Population
Authors: Gurvich Itay , Armony Mor , Maglaras Constantinos
Published: January 2009

Cross-selling is becoming an increasingly prevalent practice in call centers, due, in part, to its unique capability to allow firms to dynamically segment their callers and customize their product offerings accordingly. This paper considers a call center with cross-selling capability that serves a pool of customers that are differentiated in terms of their revenue potential and delay sensitivity. It studies the operational decisions of staffing, call routing, and cross-selling under various forms of customer segmentation. It derives near-optimal controls in each of the settings analyzed, and characterizes the impact of a more refined customer segmentation on the structure of these policies and the center's profitability.