bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SYNTHESIS, EXPERIMENTAL CHARACTERIZATION AND PARAMETRIC IDENTIFICATION OF IONIC-POLYMER METAL COMPOSITE BENDING ACTUATORS
Authors: ZHU ZICAI , LI HUIBIAO , CHEN HUALING , ZHOU JINXIONG
Published: June 2012

Ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC) actuator is a sandwiched structure with a thin polyelectrolyte strip or membrane plated with metal electrodes on both sides. Under a low applied voltage the IPMC strip bends toward either electrode depending on its polarity, forming a soft actuator for potential diverse applications. We report in details our methodologies for synthesizing IPMC with high quality electrode morphologies. We describe our experimental setup for measuring the physical and mechanical properties of IPMC. In conjunction with the experimental characterization, we finally present a parameter identification scheme to identify two key parameters for establishing relationship between unbalanced charge density and the associated electrostatic eigenstress, a constitutive law widely used in IPMC literature. The experimental and simulation procedures presented herein pave the avenue for fabrication, characterization and development of novel IPMC-based sensors and actuators.
Adaptive Source-Level Data Assignment to Dual Memory Banks
Authors: Murray Alastair , Franke Björn
Published: June 2012

Dual memory banks provide extra memory bandwidth to DSP applications and enable simultaneous access to two operands if the data is partitioned appropriately. Fully automated and compiler integrated approaches to data partitioning and memory bank assignment have, however, found little acceptance by DSP software developers. In this article we present a novel source-level approach that is more programmer friendly. Our scheme is based on soft graph coloring and highly adaptive heuristics generated by genetic programming. We have evaluated our scheme on an Analog Devices TigerSHARC TS-101 DSP and achieved speedups of up to 57% on 13 UTDSP benchmarks.
SSI Properties Revisited
Authors: Boissinot Benoit , Brisk Philip , Darte Alain , Rastello Fabrice
Published: June 2012

The static single information (SSI) form is an extension of the static single assignment (SSA) form, a well-established compiler intermediate representation that has been successfully used for numerous compiler analysis and optimizations. Several interesting results have also been shown for SSI form concerning liveness analysis and the representation of live-ranges of variables, which could make SSI form appealing for just-in-time compilation. Unfortunately, we have uncovered several mistakes in the previous literature on SSI form, which, admittedly, is already quite sparse. This article corrects the mistakes that are most germane to SSI form. We first explain why the two definitions of SSI form proposed in past literature, first by C. S. Ananian, then by J. Singer, are not equivalent. Our main result is then to prove that basic blocks, and thus program points, can be totally ordered so that live-ranges of variables correspond to intervals on a line, a result that holds for both variants of SSI form. In other words, in SSI form, the intersection graph defined by live-ranges is an interval graph, a stronger structural property than for SSA form for which the intersection graph of live-ranges is chordal. Finally, we show how this structure of live-ranges can be used to simplify liveness analysis.
Statistical Performance Modeling in Functional Instruction Set Simulators
Authors: Franke Björn
Published: June 2012

Despite the recent progress in improving the speed of
instruction-accurate
simulators
cycle-accurate
simulation is still prohibitively slow for all but the most basic programs. In this article we present a statistical machine learning approach to performance estimation in fast, instruction accurate simulators and evaluate our methodology comprehensively against three popular embedded RISC processors and about 300 embedded applications. We show that our methodology is capable of providing accurate performance estimations with an average error of less than 3.9% while, on average, operating ≈ 14.5 times faster than cycle-accurate simulation.
Statistical Extraction and Comparison of Pivot Words for Bilingual Lexicon Extension
Authors: Andrade Daniel , Matsuzaki Takuya , Tsujii Jun’ichi
Published: June 2012

Bilingual dictionaries can be automatically extended by new translations using comparable corpora. The general idea is based on the assumption that similar words have similar contexts across languages. However, previous studies have mainly focused on Indo-European languages, or use only a bag-of-words model to describe the context. Furthermore, we argue that it is helpful to extract only the statistically significant context, instead of using all context. The present approach addresses these issues in the following manner. First, based on the context of a word with an unknown translation (query word), we extract salient pivot words. Pivot words are words for which a translation is already available in a bilingual dictionary. For the extraction of salient pivot words, we use a Bayesian estimation of the point-wise mutual information to measure statistical significance. In the second step, we match these pivot words across languages to identify translation candidates for the query word. We therefore calculate a similarity score between the query word and a translation candidate using the probability that the same pivots will be extracted for both the query word and the translation candidate. The proposed method uses several context positions, namely, a bag-of-words of one sentence, and the successors, predecessors, and siblings with respect to the dependency parse tree of the sentence. In order to make these context positions comparable across Japanese and English, which are unrelated languages, we use several heuristics to adjust the dependency trees appropriately. We demonstrate that the proposed method significantly increases the accuracy of word translations, as compared to previous methods.
How to Fail When Using Internal Social Media
Authors: Jones Kevin D.
Published: June 2012

Advice on how to do internal social media is abundant. We constantly hear about best practices, case studies, and seminars, which relate successes. But as the industry has matured it has had its share of failures-companies who have badly botched their internal social media initiatives. From those, lessons are learned but rarely shared. This article shows five ways companies have failed implementing social media and extracts learnings from them. Studying these failures-and how to avoid them-help us to avoid the same fate.
eLearning in a Foreign Language
Authors: Geary Danielle
Published: June 2012

In this article, the author explores the challenges of learning a foreign language online and how the process differs from that of learning other subjects in one's native language. The author suggests adjusting first year credit hours to provide more language practice, increasing variety in lesson plans, and keeping up with instructional technology and the virtual classroom. Leadership themes and the magnitude of student autonomy in the virtual foreign language classroom are also discussed.
LinkedIn Password Leak: Salt Their Hide
Authors: Kamp Poul-Henning
Published: June 2012

6.5 million unsalted SHA1 hashed LinkedIn passwords have appeared in the criminal underground. There are two words in that sentence that should cause LinkedIn no end of concern: "unsalted" and "SHA1."
Cardiac Actions of Protein Kinase C Isoforms
Authors: Steinberg Susan F.
Published: June 2012

Protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms have emerged as important regulators of cardiac contraction, hypertrophy, and signaling pathways that influence ischemic/reperfusion injury. This review focuses on newer concepts regarding PKC isoform-specific activation mechanisms and actions that have implications for the development of PKC-targeted therapeutics.
Self-Expanding Metal Stenting for Palliation of Patients with Malignant Colonic Obstruction: Effectiveness and Efficacy on 255 Patients with 12-Month's Follow-up
Authors: Meisner Søren , González-Huix Ferran , Vandervoort Jo G. , Repici Alessandro , Xinopoulos Dimitrios , Grund Karl E. , Goldberg Paul , Registry Group The WallFlex Colonic
Published: June 2012

Background. Self-expanding metal stents can alleviate malignant colonic obstruction in incurable patients and avoid palliative stoma surgery.Objective. Evaluate stent effectiveness and safety on palliation of patients with malignant colorectal strictures.Design. Two prospective, one Spanish and one global, multicenter studies.Settings. 39 centers (22 academic, 17 community hospitals) from 13 countries.Patients. A total of 257 patients were enrolled, and 255 patients were treated with a WallFlex uncovered enteral colonic stent. Follow-up was up to 12 months or until death or retreatment.Interventions(s). Self-expanding metal stent placement.Main Outcome Measures. Procedural success, clinical success, and safety.Results. Procedural success was 98.4% (251). Clinical success rates were 87.8% at 30 days, 89.7% at 3 months, 92.8% at 6 months, and 96% at 12 months. Overall perforation rate was 5.1%. Overall migration rate was 5.5%. Overall death rate during follow-up was 48.6% (124), with 67.7% of deaths related to the patient’s colorectal cancer, unrelated in 32.3%. Only 2 deaths were related to the stent or procedure.Limitations. No control group.Conclusions. The primary palliative option for patients with malignant colonic obstruction should be self-expanding metal stent placement due to high rates of technical success and efficacy in symptom palliation and few complications.
Genome-Wide Association Study Identifies a Possible Susceptibility Locus for Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Long Jirong , Zheng Wei , Xiang Yong-Bing , Lose Felicity , Thompson Deborah , Tomlinson Ian , Yu Herbert , Wentzensen Nicolas , Lambrechts Diether , Dörk Thilo , Dubrowinskaja Natalia , Goodman Marc T. , Salvesen Helga B. , Fasching Peter A. , Scott Rodney J. , Delahanty Ryan , Zheng Ying , O'Mara Tracy , Healey Catherine S. , Hodgson Shirley , Risch Harvey , Yang Hannah P. , Amant Frederic , Turmanov Nurzhan , Schwake Anita , Lurie Galina , Trovik Jone , Beckmann Matthias W. , Ashton Katie , Ji Bu-Tian , Bao Ping-Ping , Howarth Kimberly , Lu Lingeng , Lissowska Jolanta , Coenegrachts Lieve , Kaidarova Dilyara , Dürst Matthias , Thompson Pamela J. , Krakstad Camilla , Ekici Arif B. , Otton Geoffrey , Shi Jiajun , Zhang Ben , Gorman Maggie , Brinton Louise , Coosemans An , Matsuno Rayna K. , Halle Mari K. , Hein Alexander , Proietto Anthony , Cai Hui , Lu Wei , Dunning Alison , Easton Douglas , Gao Yu-Tang , Cai Qiuyin , Spurdle Amanda B. , Shu Xiao-Ou
Published: June 2012

Background: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified more than 100 genetic loci for various cancers. However, only one is for endometrial cancer.

Methods: We conducted a three-stage GWAS including 8,492 endometrial cancer cases and 16,596 controls. After analyzing 585,963 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in 832 cases and 2,682 controls (stage I) from the Shanghai Endometrial Cancer Genetics Study, we selected the top 106 SNPs for in silico replication among 1,265 cases and 5,190 controls from the Australian/British Endometrial Cancer GWAS (stage II). Nine SNPs showed results consistent in direction with stage I with P < 0.1. These nine SNPs were investigated among 459 cases and 558 controls (stage IIIa) and six SNPs showed a direction of association consistent with stages I and II. These six SNPs, plus two additional SNPs selected on the basis of linkage disequilibrium and P values in stage II, were investigated among 5,936 cases and 8,166 controls from an additional 11 studies (stage IIIb).

Results: SNP rs1202524, near the CAPN9 gene on chromosome 1q42.2, showed a consistent association with endometrial cancer risk across all three stages, with ORs of 1.09 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.03–1.16] for the A/G genotype and 1.17 (95% CI, 1.05–1.30) for the G/G genotype (P = 1.6 × 10−4 in combined analyses of all samples). The association was stronger when limited to the endometrioid subtype, with ORs (95% CI) of 1.11 (1.04–1.18) and 1.21 (1.08–1.35), respectively (P = 2.4 × 10−5).

Conclusions: Chromosome 1q42.2 may host an endometrial cancer susceptibility locus.

Impact: This study identified a potential genetic locus for endometrial cancer risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(6); 980–7. ©2012 AACR.
Converting Epidemiologic Studies of Cancer Etiology to Survivorship Studies: Approaches and Challenges
Authors: Berrington de González Amy , Morton Lindsay M.
Published: June 2012

There are nearly 12 million cancer survivors living in the United States, and the number continues to rise with ongoing improvements in treatment and screening. Assuring the long-term health of these patients poses both clinical and public health concerns. Survivorship research covers multiple aspects of life after a cancer diagnosis, including quality of life, acute and late effects of cancer treatment and mortality. Answering these questions requires a wide array of data, including information on the outcomes of interest, treatment history, and lifestyle. One potentially efficient approach to studying late effects and survivorship is to convert or extend existing epidemiologic studies of cancer etiology. In this article, we evaluate the different potential approaches for doing this and the challenges this entails. Our evaluation highlights the combinations of research topic and design most likely to succeed. We show that any question that relates to the existing information including prediagnosis lifestyle factors or genetics (if samples are available) could be efficiently studied, with an appropriate design. On the other hand, most, though not all converted studies would be ill-suited to the evaluation of the effect of treatment and postdiagnosis lifestyle changes. In terms of endpoints, hard outcomes including mortality and second cancers are more likely to be available within the existing study framework than other morbidities or quality of life. In light of the costs and time required to build new cohorts, appropriately leveraging the existing studies offers an important opportunity to gain new insights into cancer survivorship for both clinicians and patients. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(6); 875–80. ©2012 AACR.
Residential Radon Exposure, Histologic Types, and Lung Cancer Risk. A Case–Control Study in Galicia, Spain
Authors: Barros-Dios Juan Miguel , Ruano-Ravina Alberto , Pérez-Ríos Mónica , Castro-Bernárdez Margarita , Abal-Arca Jose , Tojo-Castro Marta
Published: June 2012

Background: Lung cancer is an important public health problem, and tobacco is the main risk factor followed by residential radon exposure. Recommended exposure levels have been progressively lowered. Galicia, the study area, has high residential radon concentrations. We aim (i) to assess the risk of lung cancer linked to airborne residential radon exposure, (ii) to ascertain whether tobacco modifies radon risk, and (iii) to know whether there is a lung cancer histologic type more susceptible to radon.

Methods: A hospital-based case–control design was conducted in two Spanish hospitals. Consecutive cases with histologic diagnosis of lung cancer and controls undergoing trivial surgery not tobacco-related were included. Residential radon was measured using standard procedures. Results were obtained using logistic regression.

Results: Three hundred and forty-nine cases and 513 controls were included. Radon exposure posed a risk even with a low exposure, with those exposed to 50 to 100 Bq/m3 having an OR of 1.87 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.21–2.88] and of 2.21 (95% CI, 1.33–3.69) for those exposed to 148 Bq/m3 or more. Tobacco increased appreciably the risk posed by radon, with an OR of 73 (95% CI, 19.88–268.14) for heavy smokers exposed to more than 147 Bq/m3. Less frequent histologic types (including large cell carcinomas), followed by small cell lung cancer, had the highest risk associated with radon exposure.

Conclusions: The presence of airborne radon even at low concentrations poses a risk of developing lung cancer, with tobacco habit increasing considerably this risk.

Impact: Public health initiatives should address the higher risk of lung cancer for smokers exposed to radon. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(6); 951–8. ©2012 AACR.
Association between Reproductive Factors and Urinary Estrogens and Estrogen Metabolites in Premenopausal Women
Authors: Fortner Renée T. , Hankinson Susan E. , Schairer Catherine , Xu Xia , Ziegler Regina G. , Eliassen A. Heather
Published: June 2012

Background: Little is known about relationships among reproductive factors, estrogens and estrogen metabolites (jointly referred to as EM), and estrogen metabolism patterns.

Methods: In a cross-sectional analysis, we examined the associations of age at menarche, menstrual cycle length and regularity, parity, age at first and last birth, breastfeeding, and duration of and time since use of oral contraceptives with mid-luteal phase urinary EM in a sample of 603 premenopausal women, ages 33 to 51 years, within the Nurses' Health Study II (NHSII). Fifteen individual urinary EMs were measured with liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) and analyzed both individually and in metabolic pathways.

Results: Compared with women with extremely regular cycles, those with irregular cycles had lower levels of total EM (percent difference = 24%; Ptrend = 0.01), estradiol (23%; Ptrend = 0.02), and 16-hydroxylation pathway EM (32%; Ptrend < 0.01). Longer menstrual cycles were associated with higher levels of estrone (percent difference ≥32 vs. <26 days: 25%; Ptrend = 0.03), estradiol (24%; Ptrend = 0.01), and 16-hydroxylation pathway EM (22%; Ptrend = 0.02). Among parous women, older age at first birth was associated with lower 16-hydroxylation pathway EM (percent difference age at first birth >35 vs. ≤25 years: 20%; Ptrend = 0.02). The other reproductive factors were not statistically significantly associated with individual urinary EM or EM pathways.

Conclusions and Impact: These data, based on a LC/MS-MS assay with high specificity and precision, provide an initial, comprehensive evaluation of the associations between reproductive factors and estrogen metabolism patterns. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 21(6); 959–68. ©2012 AACR.
A Comparison of Two Immunoassay Methods for the Measurement of Maternal Serum Placental Growth Factor in Early Pregnancy
Authors: Cowans N.J. , Kisanga M. , Khan A. , Spencer K.
Published: June 2012

Objectives: To compare the DELFIA Xpress and Quantikine ELISA placental growth factor (PlGF) immunoassay platforms by analysing the same set of early first-trimester maternal serum samples from cases with trisomy 21 and euploid controls. Methods: Thirty-seven trisomy 21 cases and 243 euploid control serum samples, drawn at 8+0 to 10+6 weeks of gestation, were reanalysed by Quantikine PlGF ELISA following original analysis on the DELFIA Xpress platform. Results: PlGF levels increased with gestation in the euploid controls when measured on both platforms, although raw levels were in general lower on the DELFIA Xpress. After conversion to multiples of the median (MoMs), PlGF was increased in trisomy 21 cases when measured on the DELFIA Xpress platform (euploid: 1.00 MoM, trisomy 21: 1.32 MoM, p < 0.0001) but unchanged when measured on the Quantikine ELISA (euploid: 1.01 MoM, trisomy 21: 1.06 MoM, p = 0.84). Conclusions: Discrepancies exist in the measurement of PlGF when performed on these different platforms, which may to some extent contribute to the inconsistencies found in the literature with regard to PlGF in trisomy 21 pregnancies.
Apelin, Plasmatic Osmolality and Hypotension in Dialyzed Patients
Authors: Cernaro Valeria , Lacquaniti Antonio , Lorenzano Giuseppina , Loddo Saverio , Romeo Adolfo , Donato Valentina , Lupica Rosaria , Buemi Antoine , Buemi Michele
Published: June 2012

Background/Aims: To evaluate the balance between arginine-vasopressin (AVP) and apelin during hemodialysis and its role in hypotension onset and in the inflammation status. Methods: We enrolled 50 patients chronically treated with hemodialysis. We assessed plasmatic osmolality, AVP, apelin, mean blood pressure (BP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and β2-microglobulin. Results: Apelin rises during dialytic treatment (from 0.68 ± 0.34 to 1.89 ± 0.56 pg/ml, p < 0.0001), while plasmatic osmolality (from 325 ± 4.54 to 311 ± 1.20 mosm/kg H2O, p < 0.0001), AVP (from 4.28 ± 1.12 to 2.48 ± 0.50 pg/ml, p < 0.0001) and mean BP (from 124 ± 6 to 110 ± 7 mm Hg, p < 0.0001) decrease. At multivariate regression with respect to apelin, only mean BP remains (r = –0.95, p < 0.0001). We also correlated the AVP/apelin ratio with BP. Moreover, apelin is inversely related to hsCRP (r = –0.79, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The AVP/apelin balance changes with plasmatic osmolality variations induced by hemodialytic sessions and could represent a physiopathological marker of arterial hypo- and hypertension. Finally, apelin appears inversely related to inflammation markers.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Provide an Advantageous Tumor Microenvironment for the Restoration of Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Nishimura Kanako , Semba Shuho , Aoyagi Kazuhiko , Sasaki Hiroki , Yokozaki Hiroshi
Published: June 2012

Objective: Accumulating evidences suggest that cancer-associated fibroblasts are provided from bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs); however, little is known about the mechanism(s) by which BM-MSCs accelerate cancer aggressiveness. Methods: Gastric carcinoma (GC)-derived MKN-7 cells were cocultured with UE6E7T-12 BM-MSCs. The gene expression profile in MKN-7 cells was investigated by microarray analysis. Between two major types of GCs (intestinal- and diffuse-type), the expression of genes was detected by immunohistochemistry. Results: We found that direct attachment to UE6E7T-12 induced proliferation and cluster formation of MKN-7 cells. Coculture with UE6E7T-12 increased the population of CD133+ MKN-7 cells in vitro and coimplantation of these in mice resulted in subcutaneous tumors in vivo. The wingless-type MMTV integration site (WNT) family member 5A (WNT5A) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced (TGFBI) genes were found to be upregulated in MKN-7 cells directly attached to UE6E7T-12. Recruitment of CD271+ BM-MSC was detected preferentially in the stroma of the diffuse-type GC and this type of GC cell also showed frequent expression of WNT5A, TGF-β type I receptor and CD133. Conclusion: BM-MSC-mediated activations of the WNT and TGF-β signaling pathways were thought to provide advantageous microenvironments for cancer progression by supporting the reacquisition and maintenance of cancer stem cells.
Risk of Mental Disorders in Children of Parents with Alcohol or Heroin Dependence: A Controlled High-Risk Study
Authors: Vidal Sonia I. , Vandeleur Caroline , Rothen Stéphane , Gholam-Rezaee Mehdi , Castelao Enrique , Halfon Olivier , Aubry Jean-Michel , Ferrero François , Preisig Martin
Published: June 2012

Aim: To assess the specific effect of alcohol dependence (AD) or heroin dependence (HD) in patients and their spouses on the risk of psychopathology in their 276 6.0- to 17.9- year-old children (mean 11.3 years). Methods: The sample included 101 offspring of patients with AD, 23 of patients with HD, and 152 of medical controls, as well as their 2 parents. Participants were assessed using semistructured diagnostic interviews and family history reports by psychologists blind to patient diagnoses. Results: Children of HD and AD patients had largely elevated rates of recurrent major depressive disorder. Children of HD patients were also at an increased risk for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and substance use disorders (SUD). There were interactions between SUD in the 2 parents to increase the risk of SUD in offspring. Conclusions: These results emphasize the need for prompt identification and treatment of these children and highlight the need to pay clinical attention not only to the patient, but also to the co-parent in order to optimize prevention in offspring.
Inflammatory Cytokines in Heart Failure: Mediators and Markers
Authors: Gullestad Lars , Ueland Thor , Vinge Leif Erik , Finsen Alexandra , Yndestad Arne , Aukrust Pål
Published: June 2012

Evidence from both experimental and clinical trials indicates that inflammatory mediators are of importance in the pathogenesis of chronic heart failure (HF) contributing to cardiac remodeling and peripheral vascular disturbances. Several studies have shown raised levels of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 in HF patients in plasma and circulating leukocytes, as well as in the failing myocardium itself. There is strong evidence that these mediators are involved in processes leading to cardiac remodeling such as hypertrophy, fibrosis and apoptosis. Some of these cytokines can also give useful prognostic information as reliable biomarkers in this disorder. In general, immunomodulating treatments have, with a few exceptions, been neutral or even harmful. However, the negative results of anti-TNF studies, for instance, do not necessarily argue against the ‘cytokine hypothesis’. These studies just underscore the challenges in developing treatment modalities that can modulate the cytokine network in HF patients and result in beneficial net effects. Future studies should identify the crucial actors and their mechanisms of action in the immunopathogenesis of chronic HF and, in particular, clarify the balance between adaptive and maladaptive effects of these molecules. Such studies are a prerequisite for the development of new treatment strategies that target inflammatory and immunopathogenic mechanisms in HF. In this review article, these issues are thoroughly discussed, and we also argue for the possibility of future therapeutic targets such as mediators in innate immunity, chemokines and mediators in matrix remodeling.
Azithromycin Pulses for the Treatment of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor-Related Papulopustular Eruption: An Effective and Convenient Alternative to Tetracyclines
Authors: Nikolaou Vasiliki , Strimpakos Alexios S. , Stratigos Alexander , Katsambas Andreas , Antoniou Christina , Syrigos Kostas N.
Published: June 2012

Background: Papulopustular eruption (PPE) is the most common cutaneous side effect of epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs). Objective: To document the efficacy and safety of pulsed azithromycin doses in the treatment of EGFRI-related PPE. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients under EGFRIs who exhibited at least grade 2 PPE and were intolerant or resistant to tetracyclines was performed. Treatment consisted of pulsed azithromycin doses of 500 mg daily for 3 consecutive days per week for at least 2 weeks. Results: Treatment with azithromycin showed a significant reduction in the number of lesions in 18/20 patients, with 11 showing complete resolution of the rash. No significant side effects were recorded. We did not observe any interactions with the targeted biological agents or any obvious compromise of the anticancer treatment. Conclusions: Weekly pulses of azithromycin are effective and promote increased patient adhesion to the treatment. A prospective study is needed to confirm efficacy and safety of this convenient treatment.
A Longitudinal Study Comparing Mutans Streptococci and Lactobacilli Colonisation in Dentate Children Aged 6 to 24 Months
Authors: Plonka K.A. , Pukallus M.L. , Barnett A.G. , Walsh L.J. , Holcombe T.F. , Seow W.K.
Published: June 2012

This longitudinal study aimed to investigate variables associated with colonisation of mutans streptococci (MS) compared with lactobacilli (LB) colonisation in a cohort of children (n = 214) from the time of first tooth eruption at approximately 6 months until 24 months of age. Repeated plaque and salivary samples were collected from the same infants at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months and assayed for MS and LB using a microbiological culture kit. Children having both MS and LB increased from 4% at 6 months to 13% at 12 and 18 months to 20% at 24 months (p = 0.004). LB presence at 6 months was correlated with MS presence at 12, 18 and 24 months (r = 0.21 to r = 0.46, p = 0.02), while MS presence at 6 months correlated with LB presence at all other times (r = 0.19 to r = 0.31, p = 0.03). At 6 and 12 months, the key variables for MS colonisation included unrestored dental cavities in the mother (p = 0.03), mother not persisting with toothbrushing (p = 0.001) and bottle taken to bed at night (p = 0.033), while the only significant variable for LB colonisation was natural birth (p = 0.01). At 24 months, the significant variables for MS colonisation were condiments added to pacifier (p = 0.022) and child being uncooperative for toothbrushing (p = 0.025), while the significant variables for LB colonisation were pregnancy problems (p = 0.028) and child being uncooperative for toothbrushing (p = 0.013). The ages 6–12 months thus represent a time period when key variables may be controlled to reduce MS and LB colonisation.
Non-Sciuromorph Rodent Karyotypes in Evolution
Authors: Romanenko S.A. , Volobouev V.
Published: June 2012

Rodents are, taxonomically, the most species-rich mammalian order. They display a series of special genomic features including the highest karyotypic diversity, frequent occurrence of complex intraspecies chromosome variability, and a variety of unusual chromosomal sex determination mechanisms not encountered in other mammalian taxa. Rodents also have an abundance of cytochemically heterogeneous heterochromatin. There are also instances of extremely rapid karyotype reorganization and speciation not accompanied by significant genetic differentiation. All these peculiarities make it clear that a detailed study of rodent genomic evolution is indispensable to understand the mode and tempo of mammalian evolution. The aim of this review is to update the data obtained by classical and molecular cytogenetics as well as comparative genomics in order to outline the range of old and emerging problems that remain to be resolved.
Chromosome Evolution in New World Monkeys (Platyrrhini)
Authors: de Oliveira E.H.C. , Neusser M. , Müller S.
Published: June 2012

During the last decades, New World monkey (NWM, Platyrrhini, Anthropoideae) comparative cytogenetics has shed light on many fundamental aspects of genome organisation and evolution in this fascinating, but also highly endangered group of neotropical primates. In this review, we first provide an overview about the evolutionary origin of the inferred ancestral NWM karyotype of 2n = 54 chromosomes and about the lineage-specific chromosome rearrangements resulting in the highly divergent karyotypes of extant NWM species, ranging from 2n = 16 in a titi monkey to 2n = 62 in a woolly monkey. Next, we discuss the available data on the chromosome phylogeny of NWM in the context of recent molecular phylogenetic analyses. In the last part, we highlight some recent research on the molecular mechanisms responsible for the large-scale evolutionary genomic changes in platyrrhine monkeys.
The Failure of Histidine and Vitamin C, and of Ether, to Improve the Peripheral Circulation
Authors: WEISMAN SYDNEY J. , ALLEN EDGAR V.
Published: June 2012

Clinical experience has not confirmed previous observations that intravenous injection of vitamin C and intramuscular injection of histidine monohydrochloride are useful in the treatment of peripheral ischemia observed in arteriosclerosis obliterans. Clinical experience with intravenous injection of ether has failed to indicate that this method of treatment is of value in improving the peripheral arterial circulation in thrombo-angiitis obliterans and arteriosclerosis obliterans.
Effect of Changes in Posture on Peripheral Circulation, with Special Reference to Skin Temperature Readings and the Plethysmogram
Authors: GOETZ R. H.
Published: June 2012

Effects of changes in posture upon plethysmogram and skin temperature are investigated. Since posture, by altering venous return, affects pulse volume and response of digital volume and skin temperature to procedures releasing sympathetic tone, these should not be interpreted solely in terms of arterial blood flow. In the normal elevated limb, e.g., the skin temperature response to body heating simulates organic arterial disease. The clinical significance of these findings is discussed with particular reference to interpretation of skin temperature readings, the diagnosis of thromboantiitis obliterans, indications for sympathectomy in poliomyelitis, the management of the edematous limb and other conditions.
The Electric Field of an Eccentric Dipole in a Homogeneous Spherical Conducting Medium
Authors: WILSON FRANK N. , BAYLEY ROBERT H.
Published: June 2012

The electrical position of the heart with reference to the electrodes used in studying its field is unknown. For reasons presented, it is more likely eccentric; hence, the equation defining the field of an eccentric dipole in a spherical medium might be useful for projected experimental studies and for better understanding of the way in which a given electrical position determines the electrode potentials. A method introduced by Helmholtz was used for deriving the desired equation. It is discussed since its concepts are of considerable importance to other electrocardiographic problems, too. The more simple mathematical example dealing with the centric dipole in the sphere is discussed. The equation for the field of the eccentric dipole is given and data based upon it are presented in numerical and map form. The Helmholtz equation for the field in the spherical conductor produced by two small spherical electrodes arbitrarily located is also presented and briefly discussed.
Life Stress and Cardiovascular Disorders
Authors: WOLFF HAROLD G.
Published: June 2012

An amassing body of data demonstrates further the growing importance to medicine of the recognition that, for man, reactions to threats in the form of symbols, especially when sustained, may be more important than response to assaults. Certainly, many aspects of cardiovascular disease may be looked upon as functions of man's goals, his methods of achieving them, and the conflicts they engender. In this paper the importance of life stress to the cardiovascular system in various conditions is discussed; case examples demonstrate the relationship between stressful situations and circulatory efficiency, faulty exercise tolerance in patients with or without structural heart disease, the hypodynamic response, cardiac arrhythmias, electrocardiogram, blood pressure, hypertension and renal blood flow.
Mechanism of the Auricular Arrhythmias
Authors: PRINZMETAL MYRON , CORDAY ELIOT , BRILL ISIDOR C. , SELLERS ALVIN L. , OBLATH ROBERT W. , FLIEG WALTER A. , KRUGER H. E.
Published: June 2012

The four auricular arrhythmias, premature systoles, paroxysmal tachycardia, flutter, and fibrillation, have been investigated in over 200 dogs by three methods: (1) high speed cinematography, (2) cathode-ray oscillography, and (3) multiple-channel electrocardiography. The hitherto unexplored body of the left auricle has been surgically exposed and thoroughly studied. Results indicate that all four arrhythmias are of unitary origin and may occur from one ectopic focus. The resulting arrhythmia depends largely upon the rate of discharge from that focus. There is no circus movement. Corroborative observations have been made on the arrhythmias in man. This conception of the auricular arrhythmias simplifies the understanding of their mechanism.
Membrane Resting and Action Potentials of Single Cardiac Muscle Fibers
Authors: WOODBURY L. A. , WOODBURY J. W. , HECHT H. H.
Published: June 2012

An initial report is made on the electrocardiogram of a single heart muscle cell in vivo. The potential variations obtained by electrodes placed on opposite sides of the membrane of a heart muscle fibre are 50 to 100 times as large as those recorded by standard limb leads. The observations support the assumption that during activation the cell interior becomes positive with respect to its surrounding (depolarization, followed by polarization reversal). Induced alterations in shape and form of the action current of a single heart muscle fiber should provide further insight into the nature of the normal and abnormal electrocardiogram.
The Use of Tetraethylammonium Chloride in Treatment of Phantom Limb
Authors: WINSTON BURTON J.
Published: June 2012

The increased number of amputees resulting from World War II has undoubtedly produced many cases of phantom leg symptoms, a condition difficult to manage at best. One is tempted to try every available means to alleviate it, as will be seen in the case reported. In this instance tetraethylammonium chloride proved to be of some value.
Further Studies of the Cardiodynamics of Experimental Intraventricular Communications
Authors: HAWLEY JOHN G. , LITTLE ROBERT C. , FEIL HAROLD
Published: June 2012

This communication deals with the altered ventricular dynamics occasioned by temporary opening of a large artificial interventricular shunt. Since the left ventricular discharge into the right ventricle begins some time after ejection of blood into the aorta, the left ventricle assists the right in propelling larger quantities of blood through the pulmonary circuit. This late systolic flow through a shunt causes characteristic deformations of central arterial pressure pulses and a midsystolic murmur similar to those observed in several clinical cases.
Experimental Hypervolemic Heart Failure: Its Bearing on Certain General Principles of Heart Failure
Authors: HUCKABEE WILLIAM , CASTEN GUS , HARRISON T. R.
Published: June 2012

Infusion of large volumes of fluid into normal dogs produces a progressive rise in venous pressure with an initial parallel rise in cardiac output succeeded by a fall. On the basis of these experiments and other considerations which are discussed, it is concluded that the cardinal hemodynamic defect common to all types of heart failure is a disproportion between inflow load and cardiac output. The various general circulatory disorders are classified as primary disorders of filling and primary disorders of emptying with various subgroups.
Dissecting Aneurysm of the Aorta: Its Clinical, Electrocardiographic and Laboratory Features
Authors: LEVINSON DAVID C. , EDMEADES DONALD T. , GRIFFITH GEORGE C.
Published: June 2012

The literature has been reviewed, and 58 autopsied cases of dissecting aneurysm of the aorta observed at the Los Angeles County Hospital over a ten year period have been carefully studied. Clinical-pathologic correlation has been attempted whenever possible, with emphasis on diagnostic features. The increasing incidence of accurate diagnosis of dissecting aneurysm has been noted, and it is hoped that this review will help solidify the clinical syndrome or syndromes of the condition and thus facilitate diagnosis in dubious instances.
Sustained Hypertension due to Pheochromocytoma
Authors: SMITH HUGH P. , LOGUE R. BRUCE , BEARD DONALD E.
Published: June 2012

Report of a case of sustained arterial hypertension due to an adrenal medullary tumor, excision of which resulted in return of the blood pressure to normal levels and relief of all symptoms. A brief discussion of the symptoms and signs and several useful diagnostic tests is included.
Electrokymographic Studies in Insufficiency of the Aortic and Pulmonic Valves
Authors: HEYER HOWARD E. , POULOS ERNEST , ACKER JULIAN H.
Published: June 2012

The following paper describes the results of electrokymographic studies performed on patients with proved aortic insufficiency. Alterations in the shape of the aortic ejection curve were found and were accompanied by a diminution or absence of the incisura in the presence of insufficiency of the aortic valves. Alterations in heart border motion of the ventricles were also found. The possible dynamic factors responsible for these changes are discussed and the clinical application of the electrokymograph to aortic and pulmonic valvular disease is pointed out.
Increasing Congestive Heart Failure: A Manifestation of Digitalis Toxicity
Authors: BATTERMAN ROBERT C. , GUTNER LEONARD B.
Published: June 2012

While it has been widely appreciated that myocardial function is increased with optimal digitalis dosage, it is not well recognized that toxic concentration may impair myocardial efficiency to the point of producing increased signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure. This was demonstrated in 15 patients who could be adequately maintained with a digitalis preparation. Upon increase in dosage, all patients presented an increase in congestive heart failure which subsided upon stopping or decreasing the digitalis dosage.
Acute Myocarditis with Bundle Branch Block due to Sulfonamide Sensitivity
Authors: LILIENFELD ALFRED , HOCHSTEIN ELLIOT , WEISS WILLIAM
Published: June 2012

This is a case report of a patient who developed generalized manifestations of sulfonamide sensitivity, with evidence of involvement of the skin, mucous membrane, central nervous system, liver, and myocardium. Special attention is directed to the myocardial involvement, and particularly to the development of bundle branch block. The changes were reversible and complete recovery ensued.
Cardiac Tamponade Associated with the Administration of Dicumarol
Authors: LEEDHAM CHARLES L. , ORBISON JAMES A.
Published: June 2012

The case history is presented of a man 22 years of age who developed cardiac tamponade in association with anticoagulant therapy and nonpenetrating trauma of the heart. Included is a commentary on the delayed appearance of signs indicative of pericardial and/or myocardial damage following severe trauma and the value of serial electrocardiographic observations in the diagnosis thereof. The importance of interpretation of the results of prothrombin testing is discussed and comparative data are presented which indicate the desirability for standardization of methods employed in reporting prothrombin values when used to control anticoagulant therapy with dicumarol.
Studies on Thiomerin—A Subcutaneously Administerable Mercurial Diuretic
Authors: GROSSMAN J. , WESTON R. E. , EDELMAN I. S. , LEITER L.
Published: June 2012

Results of clinical and physiologic studies with Thiomerin, a new subcutaneously administered mercurial diuretic, are presented. The data indicate a clinical diuretic efficacy comparable to that of other mercurials and a negligible systemic toxicity. Renal clearance studies demonstrate that it acts by producing a reversible depression in tubular reabsorption of electrolyte and water. The effects of intravenous and subcutaneous administration are compared.
The Prolonged Use of an Oral Mercurial Diuretic in Ambulatory Patients with Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: VEER JOSEPH B. VANDER , CLARK THOMAS W. , MARSHALL DAVID S.
Published: June 2012

Tablets of an oral mercurial diuretic were utilized in the management of patients with severe congestive failure over a prolonged period of time. The need for parenteral mercurial diuretics was eliminated or greatly decreased by this therapy. The individual dosage was established by clinical trial. Minor toxic effects were encountered in several patients but in all instances it was possible to resume the therapy. Severe toxicity was not seen and there were no symptoms of salt depletion. Ease of administration, a more sustained diuresis, and good patient cooperation are advantages of this type of therapy.
Studies of Plasma Quinidine Content
Authors: KALMANSOHN RICHARD W. , SAMPSON JOHN J.
Published: June 2012

The gastrointestinal symptoms of quinidine toxicity occurred without relation to plasma concentration, suggesting that most examples are due to individual local gastrointestinal sensitivity and some, associated with giddiness, occur only at higher levels and may be due to nervous system effects. Tinnitus, visual disturbances and marked hypotension generally occurred at relatively high plasma quinidine concentrations. It is suggested that hypotension is due to a nervous system effect rather than to myocardial incompetence, but nonetheless warrants cessation of administration.
Blood Quinidine Concentrations as a Guide in the Treatment of Cardiac Arrhythmias
Authors: SOKOLOW MAURICE , EDGAR A. L.
Published: June 2012

Blood quinidine determinations by the photofluorometric method were made in 30 patients with auricular fibrillation or flutter in whom conversion to sinus rhythm was attempted. Successful conversion occurred in 82 per cent of the patients, with a mean blood level of 5.9 mg./liter. Vomiting and, in one case, ventricular tachycardia were the most important toxic manifestations. Doses of 0.4 to 0.6 Gm. every two hours for five doses daily were usually adequate to obtain the average conversion blood level. The importance of the quantitative aspects of quinidine therapy and the relation of time, dose and concentration of quinidine in the blood are discussed.
Arteriovenous Fistulas of the Lungs
Authors: BAER SAMUEL , BEHREND ALBERT , GOLDBURGH HAROLD L.
Published: June 2012

Two cases of pulmonary arteriovenous fistula (or aneurysm) are presented, one of which is reported in detail. Twenty-three other cases of pulmonary arteriovenous aneurysm or fistula previously reported in the American literature are reviewed, and the clinical, laboratory, radiologic, physiologic, pathologic and hereditary features of this condition discussed. Clubbing of the fingers and toes, polycythemia and cyanosis are almost constant findings. The imnportance of differentiating this condition from polycythemia vera and congenital heart disease is emphasized.
Influence of Saline, Papaverine, Nitroglycerin and Ethyl Alcohol on Electrocardiographic Response to Standard Exercise in Coronary Disease
Authors: RUSSEK HENRY I. , SMITH RICHARD H. , BAUM WILLIAM S. , NAEGELE CHARLES F. , REGAN FREDERIC D.
Published: June 2012

Much disagreement exists regarding the value of vasodilator agents in the treatment of coronary disease. Opinions have largely been based upon observations of pharmacologic action of drugs in animals, uncontrolled clinical studies and analyses of a purely subjective index, that of pain, in patients with angina pectoris. A technic was devised, therefore, to study the modifying action of various drugs upon the electrocardiographic response to standard exercise. To have validity, the procedure could be carried out only in a patient showing constant electrocardiographic changes with each performance of the standard test. The present communication records the findings in such a patient who was studied in this manner.
Observations on the Daily Changes in Venous Pressure and Weight in a Case of Chronic Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: NEWMAN WALTER , FISHEL LEO
Published: June 2012

A study of the effect of salt administration and digitalis withdrawal as separate factors in the production of congestive heart failure in the same patient is presented. The results indicate two different types of congestive failure relating to these modes of precipitation. Additional information is obtained as to the temporal precedence of weight and venous pressure in congestive heart failure induced by the aforementioned methods.
Infarction of The Right Ventricle Caused by Multiple Coronary Vein Ligation
Authors: MCALLISTER FERDINAND F. , LEIGHNINGER DAVID S.
Published: June 2012

Ligation of the coronary sinus and all the visible anterior cardiac veins led to death in 5 out of 24 dogs. In 15 out of 17 of these dogs coming to autopsy, varying degrees of infarction of the right ventricle were found. The work emphasizes the importance of the superficial venous system in the drainage of the myocardium and reveals the inadequacy of the intramural system when the latter is forced to assume the entire outflow load.