bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Earnings Management and the Post‐earnings Announcement Drift
Authors: Louis Henock , Sun Amy X.
Published: September 2011

We posit that the post‐earnings announcement drift (PEAD) is related to earnings management. Accordingly, we find that firms with large negative (positive) changes in operating cash flows manage accruals upward (downward). Most importantly, we find that PEAD is concentrated largely among those firms that are most likely to have smoothed their reported earnings and is generally associated with discretionary accruals as opposed to nondiscretionary accruals. There is no evidence of a positive (negative) PEAD for those firms with large positive (negative) earnings changes that are least likely to have managed earnings downward (upward).
Information Leakage Prior to Company Issued Guidance
Authors: Agapova Anna , Madura Jeff
Published: September 2011

We find that information leakages prior to public guidance issued by company management exist even after Regulation Fair Disclosure (FD), and are more pronounced when characteristics of the firm, the guidance, or the industry reflect higher levels of information asymmetry. Since public guidance is only partially leaked, this information leakage can be used to anticipate the information content of the impending public guidance. We simulate a trading strategy based on the preguidance leakage in the period after Regulation FD, which suggests that information leakage is an effective signal of the information content within impending public guidance.
Corporate Disclosure, Market Valuation, and Firm Performance
Authors: Jiao Yawen
Published: September 2011

In this paper, I study the relationship between the Association for Investment Management and Research disclosure rankings and several corporate performance measures. I find a positive relationship between these rankings and stock returns. Furthermore, disclosure rankings are highly correlated with firm value. Specifically, Qs of firms ranked at the top of disclosure rankings are 35% higher than those of firms ranked at the bottom. I also find positive associations between disclosure rankings and future net profit margins, sales growth, and research and development intensity. Finally, I document a positive correlation between changes in disclosure rankings and future earnings surprises.
Self‐Expropriation versus Self‐Interest in Dual‐Class Voting: The Pirelli Case Study
Authors: Bigelli Marco , Mengoli Stefano
Published: September 2011

Called to vote for a reduction in their dividend privileges, Pirelli's nonvoting shareholders appeared to expropriate themselves and favor the voting class of shares. However, what initially seemed to be self‐expropriation became self‐interest when the media coverage, voting decisions, and dual‐class ownership of 36,361 shareholders were investigated. Most of the institutional investors voting “for” the proposal were found to have ownership ties with controlling shareholders or to have held voting shares. Moreover, dual‐class ownership significantly increased the likelihood of shareholders voting to expropriate one class of shares if they benefited from the other class in their portfolios.
Sell‐Side Analyst Bias When Investment Banks Have Privileged Access to the Board
Authors: Carapeto Maria , Gietzmann Miles B.
Published: September 2011

Research on analyst bias typically identifies affiliation with reference to a subset of the mandates that could give rise to incentives for bias in a multifunction investment bank. This paper develops a new measure of affiliation based upon the UK practice of corporate broking. An advantage of this approach is that affiliation is no longer restricted to isolated equity issuance events as it is an ongoing activity. This research shows that prior US evidence regarding the “Global Settlement” is robust to this new measure and application in the United Kingdom rather than solely the United States. The paper uses a hazard rate methodology focusing on the timeliness of revisions to address selection bias concerns.
The Effects of Advertising on Mutual Fund Flows: Results from a New Database
Authors: Aydogdu Murat , Wellman Jay W.
Published: September 2011

We examine 471,000 mutual fund company advertisements from 1997 to 2003 to study advertising's effect on fund inflows. We find advertising is generally ineffective in attracting inflows but was more effective during the bear market despite smaller advertising expenditures during this time. The top 10 advertisers in our sample were most successful in capturing inflows. These companies generated inflows with mutual fund ads; other companies succeeded when advertising their other products and their brand image. Within a fund family, advertising affects the flagship fund differently than the other funds. Sample firms appeared unable to choose correctly between print and TV ads.
Efficacy and safety of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator and gas versus bevacizumab and gas for subretinal haemorrhage
Authors: Mayer Wolfgang J. , Hakim Imad , Haritoglou Christos , Gandorfer Arnd , Ulbig Michael , Kampik Anselm , Wolf Armin
Published: September 2011

Purpose:  To report the 12 months efficacy of initial intravitreal bevacizumab or intravitreal recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA) combined with expansile gas in patients with subretinal haemorrhage caused by neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods:  Forty‐five eyes of 45 patients with subretinal haemorrhage (1–5 disc diameters) involving the fovea secondary to neovascular AMD were evaluated retrospectively consecutively. Thirty‐two eyes underwent treatment with rtPA (50 μg/0.05 ml) combined with intravitreal sulphur hexafluoride (SF6). The other 13 eyes were treated with bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 ml) and SF6. Thereafter, all patients received Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (anti‐VEGF) treatment according to modified PrONTO criteria. Main outcome was change of best‐corrected visual acuity (VA) at 12 months as determined by Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy (ETDRS).

Results:  There was more improvement in patients initially treated with rtPA and gas (14 letters; bevacizumab and gas eight letters) and not suffering from adverse events. The incidence of vitreous haemorrhages was significantly higher in the rtPA group (nine of 32 versus one of 13, p < 0.01). In both groups, an average of 3.5 anti‐VEGF injections were performed per patient during 12 months (no difference between both groups).

Conclusion:  Both initial treatment regimen lead to improved functional results after 1 year. However, patients, not suffering from adverse events, who underwent initial treatment with rtPA and gas showed better results. To maintain VA, controlling neovascular AMD by anti‐VEGF treatment regime after initial treatment with rtPA+gas is important for all cases.
Hyperlipemia in a Population of Aged Donkeys: Description, Prevalence, and Potential Risk Factors
Authors: Burden F.A. , Du Toit N. , Hazell‐Smith E. , Trawford A.F.
Published: September 2011

Background

Hyperlipemia is a common disorder of the donkey, with mortality rates of up to 80% reported. Such a poor prognosis makes prevention of this disorder or amelioration in the early stages crucial.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to describe and determine the prevalence of hyperlipemia in a population of donkeys and to determine risk factors for development of the disease.

Animals

A total of 449 cases were investigated from a population of 3829 donkeys; donkeys were resident at The Donkey Sanctuary, a charity providing refuge for unwanted donkeys in theUK. Animals were selected on the basis of presence of clinical disease.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study design was used, and all donkeys presenting with hyperlipemia over a 4‐year period were included. Each case was matched with 2 controls that had not suffered from hyperlipemia in the previous month. Multivariable analysis was carried out to determine risk factors.

Results

A total of 449 clinical cases of hyperlipemia were reported with an associated mortality rate of 48.5%. Concurrent disease was present in 72% of donkeys and was the greatest risk factor (OR = 76.98); others included cardboard bedding (OR = 3.86), movement (OR = 3.94), weight loss (OR = 6.4), dental disease (OR = 1.73), and concentrate feeding (OR = 1.87).

Conclusions

This study shows that this population of donkeys in theUKoften develops hyperlipemia, particularly in response to stress or primary illness, and provides useful insights in to health and management risk factors that may be addressed to decrease the risk of hyperlipemia both in the study population and in other similar donkey populations.
The Effect of Pimobendan on Left Atrial Pressure in Dogs with Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Authors: Suzuki S. , Fukushima R. , Ishikawa T. , Hamabe L. , Aytemiz D. , Huai‐Che H. , Nakao S. , Machida N. , Tanaka R.
Published: September 2011

Background

The effects of pimobendan on left atrial pressure (LAP) in dogs with mitral valve disease (MR) have not been documented in a quantitative manner.

Objective

The objective was to document and study the short‐term effects of pimobendan on LAP and echocardiographic parameters in MR dogs.

Animals

Eight healthy Beagle dogs weighing 10.0–14.7 kg (3 males and 5 females; aged 2 years) were used.

Methods

Experimental, cross‐over, and interventional study. Dogs with surgically induced MR received pimobendan at either 0.25 mg/kg or 0.50 mg/kg PO q12h for 7 days and then, after a 7‐day wash‐out period, the other dosage. LAP was measured for 30 minutes at baseline and again on days 1, 2, 4, and 7 of pimobendan administration.

Results

Mean LAP was significantly decreased after the administration of 0.25 mg/kg (15.81 ± 5.44 mmHg to 12.67 ± 5.71 mmHg, P < .001) and 0.50 mg/kg (15.76 ± 5.45 mmHg to 10.77 ± 5.23 mmHg, P < .001). Also, the 0.50 mg/kg group led to a significantly lower LAP (P < .01) compared with the 0.25 mg/kg group. Significant reduction was seen for the first time 4 days after the administration of 0.25 mg/kg and a day after the administration of 0.50 mg/kg.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Pimobendan decreased LAP in a dose‐dependent manner in dogs with acute MR caused by experimental chordal rupture. This study did not evaluate adverse effects of high‐dose pimobendan, and additional studies in clinical patients are warranted.
The case of biobank with the law: between a legal and scientific fiction
Authors: Sándor Judit , Bárd Petra , Tamburrini Claudio , Tännsjö Torbjörn
Published: September 2011

According to estimates more than 400 biobanks currently operate across Europe. The term ‘biobank’ indicates a specific field of genetic study that has quietly developed without any significant critical reflection across European societies. Although scientists now routinely use this phrase, the wider public is still confused when the word ‘bank’ is being connected with the collection of their biological samples. There is a striking lack of knowledge of this field. In the recent Eurobarometer survey it was demonstrated that even in 2010 two-thirds of the respondents had never even heard about biobanks. The term gives the impression that a systematic collection of biological samples can constitute a ‘bank’ of considerable financial worth, where the biological samples, which are insignificant in isolation but are valuable as a collection, can be preserved, analysed and put to ‘profitable use’. By studying the practices of the numerous already existing biobanks, the authors address the following questions: to what extent does the term ‘biobank’ reflect the normative concept of using biological samples for the purposes of biomedical research? Furthermore, is it in harmony with the so far agreed legal–ethical consensus in Europe or does it deliberately pull science to the territory of a new, ambiguous commercial field? In other words, do biobanks constitute a medico-legal fiction or are they substantively different from other biomedical research protocols on human tissues?
A fair trial? Assessment of liver transplant candidates with psychiatric illnesses
Authors: Cherkassky Lisa
Published: September 2011

Allocating scarce organs to transplant candidates is only one stage in the long process of organ transplantation. Before being listed, all candidates must undergo a rigorous assessment by a multidisciplinary transplant team. The Department of Health and NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) are responsible for the development of detailed strategies to ensure a fair and objective assessment experience for all transplant candidates. Difficulties arise when particularly vulnerable candidates, such as candidates with psychiatric illnesses, are assessed. NHSBT has already developed unique assessment guidelines for alcoholic and substance-abusing liver transplant candidates to allow for a more comprehensive evaluation, but candidates with psychiatric illnesses are still assessed against general criteria. Should these candidates be assessed against their own criteria? On what clinical grounds do transplant teams justify excluding such candidates from transplantation? Is redress available for candidates who feel they have been unfairly refused a liver transplant simply because of their psychiatric illness? This essay will critically examine the provisions published by the Department of Health and NHSBT for the assessment of liver transplant candidates with psychiatric illnesses, and will provide a commentary as to whether enough is being done to protect these particularly vulnerable candidates from inconsistent assessment decisions.
‘Unbearable suffering’: a qualitative study on the perspectives of patients who request assistance in dying
Authors: Dees Marianne K , Vernooij-Dassen Myrra J , Dekkers Wim J , Vissers Kris C , van Weel Chris
Published: September 2011

Background

One of the objectives of medicine is to relieve patients' suffering. As a consequence, it is important to understand patients' perspectives of suffering and their ability to cope. However, there is poor insight into what determines their suffering and their ability to bear it.

Purpose

To explore the constituent elements of suffering of patients who explicitly request euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide (EAS) and to better understand unbearable suffering from the patients' perspective.

Patients and methods

A qualitative study using in-depth face-to-face interviews was conducted with 31 patients who had requested EAS. The grounded theory approach was used to analyse the data.

Results

Medical, psycho-emotional, socio-environmental and existential themes contributed to suffering. Especially fatigue, pain, decline, negative feelings, loss of self, fear of future suffering, dependency, loss of autonomy, being worn out, being a burden, loneliness, loss of all that makes life worth living, hopelessness, pointlessness and being tired of living were constituent elements of unbearable suffering. Only patients with a psychiatric (co)diagnosis suffered unbearably all the time.

Conclusions

Unbearable suffering is the outcome of an intensive process that originates in the symptoms of illness and/or ageing. According to patients, hopelessness is an essential element of unbearable suffering. Medical and social elements may cause suffering, but especially when accompanied by psycho-emotional and existential problems suffering will become ‘unbearable’. Personality characteristics and biographical aspects greatly influence the burden of suffering. Unbearable suffering can only be understood in the continuum of the patients' perspectives of the past, the present and expectations of the future.
Provider, patient and public benefits from a NICE appraisal of bevacizumab (Avastin)
Authors: Rhodes Catherine , Harris John , Sulston John , Spanswick Catherine
Published: September 2011

There are several good reasons for the UK Department of Health to recommend the appraisal of bevacizumab for the treatment of eye conditions by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. These reasons will extend to other drugs when similar situations arise in the future.
A fair share for the orphans: ethical guidelines for a fair distribution of resources within the bounds of the 10-year-old European Orphan Drug Regulation
Authors: Pinxten Wim , Denier Yvonne , Dooms Marc , Cassiman Jean-Jacques , Dierickx Kris
Published: September 2011

For a significant number of patients, there exists no, or only little, interest in developing a treatment for their disease or condition. Especially with regard to rare diseases, the lack of commercial interest in drug development is a burning issue. Several interventions have been made in the regulatory field in order to address the commercial disinterest in these conditions. However, existing regulations mainly focus on the provision of incentives to the sponsors of clinical trials of orphan drugs, and leave unanswered the overarching question about the rightful place of orphan drugs in resource allocation systems. In this article, we analyse the ethical aspects of funding research and development in the field of rare diseases. We then propose an ethical framework that can help health policy makers move forward in the difficult matter of fairly allocating resources for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases.
The role of the principle of double effect in ethics education at US medical schools and its potential impact on pain management at the end of life
Authors: Macauley Robert
Published: September 2011

Background

Because opioids can suppress respiratory drive, the principle of double effect (PDE) has been used to justify their use for terminally ill patients. Recent studies, however, suggest that the risk of respiratory depression in typical end-of-life (EOL) situations may be overstated and that heightened concern for this rare occurrence can lead to inadequate treatment of pain. The purpose of this study is to examine the role of the PDE in medical school ethics education, with specific reference to its potential impact on pain management at EOL.

Method

After obtaining institutional review board approval, an electronic survey was sent to ethics educators at every allopathic medical school in the USA.

Results

One-third of ethics educators felt that opioids were ‘likely’ to cause significant respiratory depression that could hasten death. Educators' opinions of opioid effects did not influence their view of the relevance of the PDE, with approximately 70% deeming it relevant to EOL care. Only 15% of ethics educators believed that associating the PDE with opioid use might discourage clinicians from optimally treating pain, out of concern for respiratory depression.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that a significant minority of ethics educators believe, contrary to current evidence, that opioids are ‘likely’ to cause significant respiratory depression that could hasten death in terminally ill patients. Yet, many of those who do not feel this is likely still rely on the PDE to justify this possibility, potentially (and unknowingly) contributing to clinical misperceptions and underutilisation of opioids at EOL.
Use of an avirulent liveSalmonellaCholeraesuis vaccine to reduce the prevalence ofSalmonellacarrier pigs at slaughter
Authors: Schwarz P. , Kich J. D. , Kolb J. , Cardoso M.
Published: September 2011

This study evaluated the use of an avirulent liveSalmonella Choleraesuisvaccine to reduce the seroprevalence and number ofSalmonellacarrier pigs at slaughter. Seven batches of 500 pigs were included in each of the two study groups: the vaccinated group (VG) that was orally vaccinated and the control group (CG) that received a placebo on the first day of life. The groups were managed in a three‐site system and followed up from birth to slaughter. Blood samples (n=378) were collected from each VG and CG to monitor the on‐farm seroprevalence in both groups. Mesenteric lymph nodes and blood from animals (n=390) belonging to each group were collected at slaughter. At the first day of life, the seroprevalence in control batches ranged from 77.9 to 96.3 per cent, while in vaccinated batches, it ranged from 66.6 to 92.6 per cent. At weaning (21 days of age), the number of seropositives decreased in both groups (mean of 12 and 3.7 per cent for CG and VG, respectively). At slaughter, batches of VG had a significantly (P<0.0001) lower seroprevalence (46.6±5 per cent) and isolation ofSalmonellafrom lymph nodes (33.1±5 per cent) compared with CG batches (79.7±4 per cent and 59.5±5 per cent, respectively). The results indicate that administration of aSalmonella choleraesuis‐attenuated vaccine on the first day of life decreasesSalmonellaisolation and seroprevalence in pigs at slaughter.
ALPHA-REGULAR STICK UNKNOTS
Authors: FRAYER CHRISTOPHER , SCHAFHAUSER CHRISTOPHER
Published: September 2011

Suppose Pn is a regular n-gon in ℝ2. An embedding f : Pn ↪ ℝ3 is called an α-regular stick knot provided the image of each side of Pn under f is a line segment of length 1 and any two consecutive line segments meet at an angle of α. The main result of this paper proves the existence of α-regular stick unknots for odd n ≥ 7 with α in the range [Formula: see text]. All knots constructed will have trivial knot type, and we will show that any non-trivial α-regular stick knot must have [Formula: see text].
THREE-DIMENSIONAL COSSERAT CONTINUUM MODELING OF FRACTURED ROCK MASSES
Authors: STEFANOU IOANNIS , SULEM JEAN
Published: September 2011

The behavior of rock masses is influenced by the existence of discontinuities, which divide the rock in joint blocks making it an inhomogeneous anisotropic material. From the mechanical point of view, the geometrical and mechanical properties of the rock discontinuities define the mechanical properties of the rock structure. In the present paper we consider a rock mass with three joint sets of different dip angle, dip direction, spacing and mechanical properties. The dynamic behavior of the discrete system is then described by a continuum model, which is derived by homogenization. The homogenization technique applied here is called generalized differential expansion homogenization technique and has its roots in Germain's (1973) formulation for micromorphic continua. The main advantage of the method is the avoidance of the averaging of the kinematic quotients and the derivation of a continuum that maps exactly the degrees of freedom of the discrete system through a one-to-one correspondence of the kinematic measures. The derivation of the equivalent continuum is based on the identification for any virtual kinematic field of the power of the internal forces and of the kinetic energy of the continuum with the corresponding quantities of the discrete system. The result is an anisotropic three-dimensional Cosserat continuum.
A Simple Automated Method for the Determination of Nitrate and Nitrite in Infant Formula and Milk Powder Using Sequential Injection Analysis
Authors: Pistón Mariela , Mollo Alicia , Knochen Moisés
Published: September 2011

A fast and efficient automated method using a sequential injection analysis (SIA) system, based on the Griess, reaction was developed for the determination of nitrate and nitrite in infant formulas and milk powder. The system enables to mix a measured amount of sample (previously constituted in the liquid form and deproteinized) with the chromogenic reagent to produce a colored substance whose absorbance was recorded. For nitrate determination, an on-line prereduction step was added by passing the sample through a Cd minicolumn. The system was controlled from a PC by means of a user-friendly program. Figures of merit include linearity (r2> 0.999 for both analytes), limits of detection (0.32 mg kg-1NO3-N, and 0.05 mg kg-1NO2-N), and precision (sr%) 0.8–3.0. Results were statistically in good agreement with those obtained with the reference ISO-IDF method. The sampling frequency was 30 hour-1(nitrate) and 80 hour-1(nitrite) when performed separately.
Liposarcoma of the Spermatic Cord: A Case Report
Authors: Papageorgiou M. S. , Dadakas G. , Donev K.
Published: September 2011

Liposarcomas are malignant tumors derived embryologically from mesodermal tissues. An unusual site of presentation is the spermatic cord, presenting as an inguinal or scrotal mass. We report a rare case of a liposarcoma of the spermatic cord, mimicking a testicular tumor. The patient was operated, and an orchidectomy, including the tumor, was performed. To our knowledge, there are about 185 similar cases reported in the literature.
The Potential Interplay of Adipokines with Toll-Like Receptors in the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Shen-Nien , Wang Sen-Te , Lee King Teh
Published: September 2011

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are not only crucial to the initiation of the immune system, but also play a key role in several human inflammatory diseases. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among those human cancers, which arise from sites of chronic inflammation. Therefore, a number of studies have explored the potential contribution of TLRs to HCC occurrence, which is initiated by exposure to chronic hepatic inflammation of different etiologies (including ethanol, and chronic B and C viral infections). Recent epidemiological data have shown the association of obesity and HCC development. Given the fact that adipose tissues can produce a variety of inflammation-related adipokines, obesity has been characterized as a state of chronic inflammation. Adipokines are therefore considered as important mediators linking inflammation to several metabolic diseases, including cancers. More recently, many experts have also shown the bridging role of TLRs between inflammation and metabolism. Hopefully, to retrieve the potential interaction between TLRs and adipokines in carcinogenesis of HCC will shed a new light on the therapeutic alternative for HCC. In this paper, the authors first review the respective roles of TLRs and adipokines, discuss their mutual interaction in chronic inflammation, and finally anticipate further investigations of this interaction in HCC development.
Sporadic Hemiplegic Migraine with Seizures and Transient MRI Abnormalities
Authors: Bhatia Harsha , Babtain Fawzi
Published: September 2011

Hemiplegic migraines are characterised by attacks of migraine with aura accompanied by transient motor weakness. There are both familial and sporadic subtypes, which are now recognised as separate entities by the International Classification of Headache Disorders, edition II (ICHD-II). Sporadic hemiplegic migraine is a rare variant of migraine, We report a case of sporadic hemiplegic migraine and seizures with MRI features suggestive of cortical hyper intensity and edema on T2 and FLAIR images with no restriction pattern on diffusion and these changes completely resolving over time, suggesting that these changes are due prolonged neuronal depolarization and not of ischemic origin.
Giant Intrapulmonary Teratoma: A Rare Case
Authors: Dar Rayees Ahmad , Mushtaque Majid , Wani Sabiya Hamid , Malik Rayees Ahmed
Published: September 2011

Teratomas are tumors composed of tissues derived from more than one germ cell line. Pulmonary teratomas are rare and commonly involve the upper lobe of the left lung. Criteria for pulmonary origin are the exclusion of a gonadal or other extragonadal primary site and origin entirely within the lung. We report a case of a giant pulmonary teratoma in a 2-year-old male child and review the relevant literature.
Complications Using Bioabsorbable Cross-Pin Femoral Fixation: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hasan Saqib , Nayyar Samir , Onyekwelu Ikemefuna , Kalra Kunal , Gyftopoulos Soterios , Jazrawi Laith M.
Published: September 2011

The use of bioabsorbable cross-pin transcondylar fixation has remained a viable option for femoral fixation in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Although numerous biomechanical studies have demonstrated high fixation strength and minimal slippage with use of this method of fixation, there have been increasing reports of a variety of clinical complications associated with these implants. We reviewed the literature for all complications associated with the Bio-TransFix implant and present a case report of a patient status after ACL reconstruction using Bio-TransFix cross-pin femoral fixation with iliotibial band friction syndrome from a broken cross-pin four month post-operatively.
Early FDI Based on Residuals Design According to the Analysis of Models of Faults: Application to DAMADICS
Authors: Kourd Yahia , Lefebvre Dimitri , Guersi Noureddine
Published: September 2011

The increased complexity of plants and the development of sophisticated control systems have encouraged the parallel development of efficient rapid fault detection and isolation (FDI) systems. FDI in industrial system has lately become of great significance. This paper proposes a new technique for short time fault detection and diagnosis in nonlinear dynamic systems with multi inputs and multi outputs. The main contribution of this paper is to develop a FDI schema according to reference models of fault‐free and faulty behaviors designed with neural networks. Fault detection is obtained according to residuals that result from the comparison of measured signals with the outputs of the fault free reference model. Then, Euclidean distance from the outputs of models of faults to the measurements leads to fault isolation. The advantage of this method is to provide not only early detection but also early diagnosis thanks to the parallel computation of the models of faults and to the proposed decision algorithm. The effectiveness of this approach is illustrated with simulations on DAMADICS benchmark.
Isolation and Characterization of Adhesive Secretion from Cuvierian Tubules of Sea Cucumber Holothuria forskåli (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea)
Authors: Baranowska Malgorzata , Schloßmacher Ute , McKenzie J. Douglas , Müller Werner E. G. , Schröder Heinz C.
Published: September 2011

The sea cucumber Holothuria forskåli possesses a specialized system called Cuvierian tubules. During mechanical stimulation white filaments (tubules) are expelled and become sticky upon contact with any object. We isolated a protein with adhesive properties from protein extracts of Cuvierian tubules from H. forskåli. This protein was identified by antibodies against recombinant precollagen D which is located in the byssal threads of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. To find out the optimal procedure for extraction and purification, the identified protein was isolated by several methods, including electroelution, binding to glass beads, immunoprecipitation, and gel filtration. Antibodies raised against the isolated protein were used for localization of the adhesive protein in Cuvierian tubules. Immunostaining and immunogold electron microscopical studies revealed the strongest immunoreactivity in the mesothelium; this tissue layer is involved in adhesion. Adhesion of Cuvierian tubule extracts was measured on the surface of various materials. The extracted protein showed the strongest adhesion to Teflon surface. Increased adhesion was observed in the presence of potassium and EDTA, while cadmium caused a decrease in adhesion. Addition of antibodies and trypsin abolished the adhesive properties of the extract.
A Pilot Study of a Creative Bonding Intervention to Promote Nursing Students' Attitudes towards Taking Care of Older People
Authors: Lamet Ann R. , Sonshine Rosanne , Walsh Sandra M. , Molnar David , Rafalko Sharon
Published: September 2011

Although numbers of older people are increasing, nursing students have negative attitudes towards older people and do not plan to care for them following graduation. Multiple strategies have been implemented to reverse students' attitudes with mixed results. The purpose of this pilot quasi-experimental study was to test a Creative-Bonding Intervention (CBI) with students implementing art activities with older people to promote students' willingness to take care of them. Using a self-transcendence conceptual framework, control () and experimental () student groups were pre- and post-tested on attitudes toward older people, self-transcendence, and willingness to serve. The CBI improved attitudes towards older people with negative attitudes significantly changed () but with no significant differences on self-transcendence and willingness to serve. However, willingness to serve results approached significance (). The willingness measure (one question) should be expanded. Curricula changes that incorporate creative activities such as the CBI with larger and equal numbers in student groups and longitudinal follow up to determine long-term results after graduation are suggested.
Atypical Focal Osteomyelitis as Initial Manifestation of AIDS
Authors: Akiki A. , Bilde Y.
Published: September 2011

Persistent pain development after a skeletal contusion rarely poses the diagnosis of osteomyelitis. We report the case of a fibular head contusion as an initial manifestation of a focal abscess development in a healthy young patient. The traditional treatment of surgical drainage revealed the presence of an atypicalMycobacterium haemophilumisolates in the abscess. This lead to further investigations that concluded and established the diagnosis of AIDS.Conclusion. Isolation of an atypicalMycobacterium haemophilumin any abscess should lead the physician to accomplish further investigations and look for AIDS even in young healthy subjects.
A Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Pleura Revealed by Hiccups
Authors: Chafik A. , Alaoui M. , Benjelloune A. , Qamouss Y.
Published: September 2011

Solitary fibrous tumors of the pleura are rare and benign primary localized tumors; they possess a malignant potential and thus should be excised. We report a case of a 43-year-old woman, who had suffered for 5 years from right basithoracic pain associated with progressive dyspnea and persistent hiccups during the last 6 months. We have not found any similar case in the literature. Further testing after excision by thoracotomy revealed a solitary fibrous pleural tumor. A brief discussion of the clinical presentation and incidence of these tumors is included.
Use of BODIPY (493/503) to Visualize Intramuscular Lipid Dropletsin Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Spangenburg Espen E. , Pratt Stephen J. P. , Wohlers Lindsay M. , Lovering Richard M.
Published: September 2011

Triglyceride storage is altered across various chronic health conditions necessitating various techniques to visualize and quantify lipid droplets (LDs). Here, we describe the utilization of the BODIPY (493/503) dye in skeletal muscle as a means to analyze LDs. We found that the dye was a convenient and simple approach to visualize LDs in both sectioned skeletal muscle and cultured adult single fibers. Furthermore, the dye was effective in both fixed and nonfixed cells, and the staining seemed unaffected by permeabilization. We believe that the use of the BODIPY (493/503) dye is an acceptable alternative and, under certain conditions, a simpler method for visualizing LDs stored within skeletal muscle.
Reduced Formation of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Migration of Mononuclear Phagocytes in the Cochleae of Chinchilla after Antioxidant Treatment in Acute Acoustic Trauma
Authors: Du Xiaoping , Choi Chul-Hee , Chen Kejian , Cheng Weihua , Floyd Robert A. , Kopke Richard D.
Published: September 2011

Objective. Inhibition of inflammation and free radical formation in the cochlea may be involved in antioxidant treatment in acute acoustic trauma.Procedure. Chinchilla were exposed to 105 dB sound pressure level octave band noise for 6 hours. One group of chinchilla was treated with antioxidants after noise exposure. Auditory brainstem responses, outer hair cell counts, and immunohistochemical analyses of biomarkers in the cochlea were conducted.Results. The antioxidant treatment significantly reduced hearing threshold shifts, outer hair cell loss, numbers of CD45+cells, as well as 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal and nitrotyrosine formation in the cochlea.Conclusion. Antioxidant treatment may provide protection to sensory cells by inhibiting formation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen products and migration of mononuclear phagocytes in the cochlea. The present study provides further evidence of effectiveness of antioxidant treatment in reducing permanent hearing loss.
Rac1 and Stathmin but Not EB1 Are Required for Invasion of Breast Cancer Cells in Response to IGF-I
Authors: Morimura Shigeru , Takahashi Kazuhide
Published: September 2011

Cell migration is considered necessary for the invasion that accompanies the directional formation of the cellular protrusions termed lamellipodia. In invasive breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells, lamellipodia formation is preceded by translocation of the actin cytoskeletal regulatory protein WAVE2 to the leading edge. WAVE2 translocation and lamellipodia formation require many signaling molecules, including PI3K, Rac1, Pak1, IRSp53, stathmin, and EB1, but whether these molecules are necessary for invasion remains unclear. In noninvasive breast cancer MCF7 cells, no lamellipodia were induced by IGF-I, whereas in MDA-MB-231 cells, Rac1, stathmin, and EB1 were overexpressed. Depletion of Rac1 or stathmin by small interfering RNA abrogated the IGF-I-induced invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells; however, depletion of EB1 did not, indicating the necessity of Rac1 and stathmin but not EB1 for invasion. The signaling pathway leading to cell invasion may not be identical but shares some common molecules, leading to cell migration through lamellipodia formation.
Intussusception Secondary to a Meckel's Diverticulum in an Adolescent
Authors: Morrison John , Jeanmonod Rebecca
Published: September 2011

A 13-year-old girl presented to the Emergency Department with vomiting and abdominal pain. On examination, she had only mild abdominal tenderness, but a mass was palpable in her right lower quadrant. Intussusception was diagnosed on ultrasound and confirmed on computed tomography (CT) scan, and operative findings revealed a jejunojejunal intussusception secondary to Meckel's diverticulum. Intussusception is a surgical abdominal emergency, which can present in all ages but is the most common reason for small bowel obstruction in childhood. It is a well-known cause of abdominal pain, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea in infancy but often not considered when evaluating the older child with similar symptoms. However, consideration of this diagnosis is important, as more than 1/3 of cases present beyond the age of 7. In older children, intussusception is more likely to be related to underlying pathology, such as Meckel's diverticulum, malignancy, or polyp. Intussusception should be on the differential in any patient with isolated abdominal complaints, and when it is diagnosed in an older child, it should be recognized that it is likely secondary to underlying pathology.
Role of HER2-Targeted Agents in Adjuvant Treatment for Breast Cancer
Authors: Mukohara Toru
Published: September 2011

Approximately 20% of breast cancers overexpress human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein, mainly as a result of gene amplification. The receptor tyrosine kinase is believed to play a critical role in the pathogenesis and further proliferation of these tumors. The application of trastuzumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against the extracellular domain of HER2 protein, to HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer has significantly improved treatment outcomes. Following this success, several phase III trials have evaluated the role of trastuzumab in the adjuvant setting, with the result that trastuzumab use is now the standard of care for most HER2-positive early breast cancer patients. In this paper, we review these pivotal phase III trials. We also discuss unresolved issues in adjuvant treatment with trastuzumab, including target patient population, sequential or concurrent use with chemotherapy or radiation, treatment duration, cardiotoxicity, and the possibility of eliminating chemotherapy. Following confirmation of its ability to partially overcome trastuzumab resistance, we also discuss the role of lapatinib in adjuvant use.
Quality of Life Following Permanent Neurological Damage after Subarachnoid Block
Authors: Buowari Yvonne Dabota
Published: September 2011

Introduction. Caesarean section is the commonest operation carried out in females of the reproductive age group. Spinal anaesthesia is commonly used for caesarean section with its risk. Permanent paralysis of the lower limbs following subarachnoid block is a rare complication but can occur even in the best of hands.Case Summary. This is a 29-year-old final-year university student now 34 years old who had emergency caesarean section for cephalopelvic disproportion in 2005 under spinal anaesthesia in a low-resource setting in a developing country. She developed permanent neurological deficit thereafter. She had urinary and faecal incontinence for one year. She lost one academic session at her school because of long hospital stay and is now confined to a wheel chair. She celebrated her daughter's fifth birthday in October, 2010. Although there is ability in inability, she is now disabled.Conclusion. It is important for clinicians to recognise the complications of subarachnoid block promptly to avoid delay in treatment and severe neurological deficits.
An External Calibration Method for Compensating for the Mutual Coupling Effect in Large Interferometric Aperture Synthesis Radiometers
Authors: Dong Jian , Shi Ronghua , Chen Ke , Li Qingxia , Lei Wentai
Published: September 2011

This paper deals with the antenna mutual coupling effect in interferometric aperture synthesis radiometers (IASRs), which degrades the system radiometric performance. First, the conventional mutual impedance (CMI) is adopted to analyze the mutual coupling effect on the performance of IASR and a practical model of the coupled visibilities is developed. Based on the model, an external calibration method is then proposed to compensate for the mutual coupling effect. In this method, the measured visibilities are decoupled through the difference measurement between the original scene and a naturally occurring reference scene. Compared to the previous methods, the proposed method requires no extra additional hardware cost and has easier implementation and, therefore, fits for the large interferometric array radiometers. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Involvement of Prohibitin Upregulation in Abrin-Triggered Apoptosis
Authors: Liu Yu-Huei , Peck Konan , Lin Jung-Yaw
Published: September 2011

Abrin (ABR), a protein purified from the seeds ofAbrus precatorius, induces apoptosis in various types of cancer cells. However, the detailed mechanism remains largely uncharacterized. By using a cDNA microarray platform, we determined that prohibitin (PHB), a tumor suppressor protein, is significantly upregulated in ABR-triggered apoptosis. ABR-induced upregulation of PHB is mediated by the stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK) pathway, as demonstrated by chemical inhibitors. In addition, ABR significantly induced the expression of Bax as well as the activation of caspase-3 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) in Jurkat T cells, whereas the reduction of PHB by specific RNA interference delayed ABR-triggered apoptosis through the proapoptotic genes examined. Moreover, our results also indicated that nuclear translocation of the PHB-p53 complex may play a role in the transcription of Bax. Collectively, our data show that PHB plays a role in ABR-induced apoptosis, which may be helpful for the development of diagnostic or therapeutic agents.
Perspectives on the Role of Photodynamic Therapy in the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Li Wei , Ma Qingyong , Wu Erxi
Published: September 2011

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a noninvasive procedure involving a photosensitizing agent that is activated by light to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) that selectively destroy tumor cells. In recent years, PDT has been used in the treatment of pancreatic cancer (PC). The antitumor effects of PDT include three main mechanisms: direct tumor cell death (necrosis, apoptosis, and autophagy), vascular destruction, and immune system activation. The present paper systematically summarizes the effects of PDT in the treatment of PC from the experimental studies to the clinical studies and discusses the mechanisms of PDT-induced PC destruction.
Periosteum: A Highly Underrated Tool in Dentistry
Authors: Mahajan Ajay
Published: September 2011

The ultimate goal of any dental treatment is the regeneration of lost tissues and alveolar bone. Under the appropriate culture conditions, periosteal cells secrete extracellular matrix and form a membranous structure. The periosteum can be easily harvested from the patient's own oral cavity, where the resulting donor site wound is invisible. Owing to the above reasons, the periosteum offers a rich cell source for bone tissue engineering; hence, the regenerative potential of periosteum is immense. Although the use of periosteum as a regenerative tool has been extensive in general medical field, the regenerative potential of periosteum is highly underestimated in dentistry; therefore, the present paper reviews the current literature related to the regenerative potential of periosteum and gives an insight to the future use of periosteum in dentistry.
Understanding Postprandial Inflammation and Its Relationship to Lifestyle Behaviour and Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Klop Boudewijn , Proctor Spencer D. , Mamo John C. , Botham Kathleen M. , Castro Cabezas Manuel
Published: September 2011

Postprandial hyperlipidemia with accumulation of remnant lipoproteins is a common metabolic disturbance associated with atherosclerosis and vascular dysfunction, particularly during chronic disease states such as obesity, the metabolic syndrome and, diabetes. Remnant lipoproteins become attached to the vascular wall, where they can penetrate intact endothelium causing foam cell formation. Postprandial remnant lipoproteins can activate circulating leukocytes, upregulate the expression of endothelial adhesion molecules, facilitate adhesion and migration of inflammatory cells into the subendothelial space, and activate the complement system. Since humans are postprandial most of the day, the continuous generation of remnants after each meal may be one of the triggers for the development of atherosclerosis. Modulation of postprandial lipemia by lifestyle changes and pharmacological interventions could result in a further decrease of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. This paper will provide an update on current concepts concerning the relationship between postprandial lipemia, inflammation, vascular function, and therapeutic options.
Nicotine-induced anxiogenic-like behaviours of rats in the elevated plus-maze: possible role of NMDA receptors of the central amygdala
Authors: Zarrindast Mohammad Reza , Aghamohammadi-Sereshki Arash , Rezayof Ameneh , Rostami Parvin
Published: September 2011

The objective of the present study was to investigate the possible role of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor system of the central amygdala (CeA) in the anxiogenic-like effect of nicotine. Male Wistar rats with cannulas aimed to the CeA were submitted to the elevated plus-maze (EPM). Intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of nicotine (0.6 and 0.8 mg/kg) decreased percentage open arm time spent (%OAT) and percentage open arm entries (%OAE), but not locomotor activity, indicating an anxiogenic-like response. Bilateral intra-CeA microinjection of NMDA (0.005–0.1 μ g/rat) decreased %OAT, but not %OAE and locomotor activity. Moreover, intra-CeA microinjection of NMDA (0.05 μ g) with an ineffective dose of nicotine (0.4 mg/kg, i.p.) reduced %OAT and %OAE without effect on locomotor activity. On the other hand, intra-CeA microinjection of the NMDA receptor antagonist D-AP5 (0.05–0.5 μ g/rat) increased both %OAT and %OAE, showing an anxiolytic-like effect of the drug. Co-administration of the same doses of D-AP5 with nicotine (0.6 mg/kg, i.p.) increased %OAT and %OAE, but not locomotor activity. Intra-CeA microinjection of D-AP5 reversed the response induced by NMDA (0.1 μ g/rat) in the EPM. The results may support the possible involvement of glutamate transmission, through NMDA receptors of central amygdala in the anxiogenic-like effect of nicotine in the EPM task.