bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The extradomain a of fibronectin enhances the efficacy of lipopolysaccharide defective Salmonella bacterins as vaccines in mice
Authors: Román Beatriz San , Garrido Victoria , Muñoz Pilar-María , Arribillaga Laura , García Begoña , De Andrés Ximena , Zabaleta Virginia , Mansilla Cristina , Farrán Inmaculada , Lasa Iñigo , De Andrés Damián , Amorena Beatriz , Lasarte Juan-José , Grilló María-Jesús
Published: April 2012

The Extradomain A from fibronectin (EDA) has an immunomodulatory role as fusion protein with viral and tumor antigens, but its effect when administered with bacteria has not been assessed. Here, we investigated the adjuvant effect of EDA in mice immunizations against Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Enteritidis (Salmonella Enteritidis). Since lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a major virulence factor and the LPS O-polysaccharide (O-PS) is the immunodominant antigen in serological diagnostic tests, Salmonella mutants lacking O-PS (rough mutants) represent an interesting approach for developing new vaccines and diagnostic tests to differentiate infected and vaccinated animals (DIVA tests). Here, antigenic preparations (hot-saline extracts and formalin-inactivated bacterins) from two Salmonella Enteritidis rough mutants, carrying either intact (SEΔwaaL) or deep-defective (SEΔgal) LPS-Core, were used in combination with EDA. Biotinylated bacterins, in particular SEΔwaaL bacterin, decorated with EDAvidin (EDA and streptavidin fusion protein) improved the protection conferred by hot-saline or bacterins alone and prevented significantly the virulent infection at least to the levels of live attenuated rough mutants. These findings demonstrate the adjuvant effect of EDAvidin when administered with biotinylated bacterins from Salmonella Enteritidis lacking O-PS and the usefulness of BEDA-SEΔwaaL as non-live vaccine in the mouse model.
French-language version of the World Health Organization quality of life spirituality, religiousness and personal beliefs instrument
Authors: Mandhouj Olfa , Etter Jean-François , Courvoisier Delphine , Aubin Henri-Jean
Published: April 2012

Background

A valid assessment of spirituality and religiousness is necessary for clinical and research purposes. We developed and assessed the validity of a French-language version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Spirituality, Religiousness and Personal Beliefs Instrument (WHOQOL-SRPB).

Methods

The SRPB was translated into French according to the methods recommended by the WHOQOL group. An Internet survey was conducted in 561 people in 2010, with follow-up 2 weeks later (n = 231, 41%), to assess reliability, factor structure, social desirability bias and construct validity of this scale. Tests were performed based on item-response theory.

Results

A modal score of 1 (all answers=”not at all”) was observed for Faith (in 34% of participants), Connectedness (27%), and Spiritual Strength (14%). All scales had test-retest reliability coefficients ≥0.7. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were high for all subscales (0.74 to 0.98) and very high (>0.9) for three subscales (Connectedness, Spiritual Strength and Faith). Scores of Faith, Connectedness, Spiritual Strength and Meaning of Life were higher for respondents with religious practice than for those who had no religious practice. No association was found between SRPB and age or sex. The Awe subscale had a low information function for all levels of the Awe latent trait and may benefit from inclusion of an additional item.

Conclusions

The French language version of the SRPB retained many properties of the original version. However, the SRPB could be improved by trimming redundant items. The strength of SRPB relies on its multinational development and validation, allowing for cross-cultural comparisons.
Hypoglycemia associated with L-asparaginase in acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment: a case report
Authors: Tanaka Ryuma , Osumi Tomoo , Miharu Masashi , Ishii Tomohiro , Hasegawa Tomonobu , Takahashi Takao , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: April 2012

A patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia repeatedly developed hypoglycemia during chemotherapy. Comparison of serum glucose trends between chemotherapy with and without L-asparaginase (L-Asp) demonstrated a strong association between L-Asp and hypoglycemia. Critical blood sampling during hypoglycemia indicated hyperinsulinism, suggesting that L-Asp induced hypoglycemia in the patient through inappropriate insulin secretion. Identification of hypoglycemia as an adverse effect will enable clinicians to understand and develop appropriate strategies for L-Asp use in chemotherapy regimens.
The generation of chromosomal deletions to provide extensive coverage and subdivision of the Drosophila melanogaster genome
Authors: Cook R Kimberley , Christensen Stacey J , Deal Jennifer A , Coburn Rachel A , Deal Megan E , Gresens Jill M , Kaufman Thomas C , Cook Kevin R
Published: April 2012

Background

Chromosomal deletions are used extensively in Drosophila melanogaster genetics research. Deletion mapping is the primary method used for fine-scale gene localization. Effective and efficient deletion mapping requires both extensive genomic coverage and a high density of molecularly defined breakpoints across the genome.

Results

A large-scale resource development project at the Bloomington Drosophila Stock Center has improved the choice of deletions beyond that provided by previous projects. FLP-mediated recombination between FRT-bearing transposon insertions was used to generate deletions, because it is efficient and provides single-nucleotide resolution in planning deletion screens. The 793 deletions generated pushed coverage of the euchromatic genome to 98.4%. Gaps in coverage contain haplolethal and haplosterile genes, but the sizes of these gaps were minimized by flanking these genes as closely as possible with deletions. In improving coverage, a complete inventory of haplolethal and haplosterile genes was generated and extensive information on other haploinsufficient genes was compiled. To aid mapping experiments, a subset of deletions was organized into a Deficiency Kit to provide maximal coverage efficiently. To improve the resolution of deletion mapping, screens were planned to distribute deletion breakpoints evenly across the genome. The median chromosomal interval between breakpoints now contains only nine genes and 377 intervals contain only single genes.

Conclusions

Drosophila melanogaster now has the most extensive genomic deletion coverage and breakpoint subdivision as well as the most comprehensive inventory of haploinsufficient genes of any multicellular organism. The improved selection of chromosomal deletion strains will be useful to nearly all Drosophila researchers.
EYA1 and SIX1 drive the neuronal developmental program in cooperation with the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex and SOX2 in the mammalian inner ear
Authors: Ahmed Mohi , Xu Jinshu , Xu Pin-Xian
Published: April 2012

Inner ear neurogenesis depends upon the function of the proneural basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors NEUROG1 and NEUROD1. However, the transcriptional regulation of these factors is unknown. Here, using loss- and gain-of-function models, we show that EYA1 and SIX1 are crucial otic neuronal determination factors upstream of NEUROG1 and NEUROD1. Overexpression of both Eya1 and Six1 is sufficient to convert non-neuronal epithelial cells within the otocyst and cochlea as well as the 3T3 fibroblast cells into neurons. Strikingly, all the ectopic neurons express not only Neurog1 and Neurod1 but also mature neuronal markers such as neurofilament, indicating that Eya1 and Six1 function upstream of, and in the same pathway as, Neurog1 and Neurod1 to not only induce neuronal fate but also regulate their differentiation. We demonstrate that EYA1 and SIX1 interact directly with the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling subunits BRG1 and BAF170 to drive neurogenesis cooperatively in 3T3 cells and cochlear nonsensory epithelial cells, and that SOX2 cooperates with these factors to mediate neuronal differentiation. Importantly, we show that the ATPase BRG1 activity is required for not only EYA1- and SIX1-induced ectopic neurogenesis but also normal neurogenesis in the otocyst. These findings indicate that EYA1 and SIX1 are key transcription factors in initiating the neuronal developmental program, probably by recruiting and interacting with the SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex to specifically mediate Neurog1 and Neurod1 transcription.
Crystal structure of the Rna14–Rna15 complex
Authors: Paulson Ashley R. , Tong Liang
Published: April 2012

A large protein machinery is required for 3′-end processing of mRNA precursors in eukaryotes. Cleavage factor IA (CF IA), a complex in the 3′-end processing machinery in yeast, contains four subunits, Rna14, Rna15, Clp1, and Pcf11. Rna14 has a HAT (half a TPR) domain at the N terminus and a region at the C terminus that mediates interactions with Rna15. Rna15 contains a RNA recognition module (RRM) at the N terminus, followed by a hinge region. These two proteins are homologs of CstF-77 and CstF-64 in the cleavage stimulation factor (CstF) of the mammalian 3′-end processing machinery. We report the first crystal structure of Rna14 in complex with the hinge region of Rna15, and the structures of the HAT domain of Rna14 alone in two different crystal forms. The complex of the C-terminal region of Rna14 with the hinge region of Rna15 does not have strong interactions with the HAT domain of Rna14, and this complex is likely to function independently of the HAT domain. Like CstF-77, the HAT domain of Rna14 is also a tightly associated dimer with a highly elongated shape. However, there are large variations in the organization of this dimer among the Rna14 structures, and there are also significant structural differences to CstF-77. These observations suggest that the HAT domain and especially its dimer may have some inherent conformational variability.
Money-Back Guarantees: Helping the Low-Quality Retailer
Authors: McWilliams Bruce
Published: April 2012

Existing literature, based on signaling theory, suggests that money-back guarantees (MBGs) will be utilized by high-quality firms, where high quality is defined as a low likelihood of product return. However, in today's world, MBGs are ubiquitous among major retailers, even when the likelihood of product return varies greatly between them. To understand this phenomenon, we explore a competitive environment between high- and low-quality retailers where consumers are fully informed and risk neutral, and retailers realize a salvage value for returned products. When MBGs are profitable, under continuous demand it is Nash equilibrium for both retailers to offer MBGs, and the low-quality retailer gains while the high-quality retailer loses relative to when MBGs are not offered. In contrast, if demand is lumpy, retailers can act monopolistically over their respective market segments, allowing both retailers to gain from MBGs, although the low-quality retailer still gains more.

This paper was accepted by J. Miguel Villas-Boas, marketing.
Working When No One Is Watching: Motivation, Test Scores, and Economic Success
Authors: Segal Carmit
Published: April 2012

This paper provides evidence that scores on simple, low-stakes tests are associated with future economic success because the scores also reflect test takers' personality traits associated with their level of intrinsic motivation. To establish this, I use the coding speed test that was administered without incentives to participants in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY). I show that, controlling for cognitive ability, the coding speed scores are correlated with future earnings of male NLSY participants. I provide evidence that the coding speed scores relate to intrinsic motivation. I show that the scores of the highly motivated, though less educated, group (potential recruits to the U.S. military), are higher than the NLSY participants' scores. I use controlled experiments to show directly that intrinsic motivation is an important component of the unincentivized coding speed scores and that it relates to test takers' personality traits.

This paper was accepted by Teck Ho, behavioral economics.
Does Attention Constrain Developmental Trajectories in Fragile X Syndrome? A 3-Year Prospective Longitudinal Study
Authors: Cornish Kim , Cole Victoria , Longhi Elena , Karmiloff-Smith Annette , Scerif Gaia
Published: April 2012

Basic attentional processes and their impact on developmental trajectories in fragile X syndrome were assessed in a 3-year prospective study. Although fragile X syndrome is a monogenic X-linked disorder, there is striking variability in outcomes even in young boys with the condition. Attention is a key factor constraining interactions with the environment, so it is a perfect candidate to predict trajectories in cognitive and behavioral outcomes. In this study, 48 boys with fragile X syndrome were assessed 3 times over 24 months. Although nonverbal IQ declined, there were significant improvements in nonverbal growth scores and in cognitive attention. In contrast, behavioral difficulties (i.e., autistic symptomatology, hyperactivity–inattention) remained stable over this time frame. Attentional markers in the visual and auditory modalities predicted intellectual abilities and classroom behavior, whereas auditory markers alone predicted autistic symptomatology.
Do Autistic Symptoms Persist Across Time? Evidence of Substantial Change in Symptomatology Over a 3-year Period in Cognitively Able Children With Autism
Authors: Pellicano Elizabeth
Published: April 2012

This study investigated the extent and nature of changes in symptomatology in cognitively able children with autism over a 3-year period. Thirty-seven children diagnosed with an autism spectrum condition involved in an earlier study (M age  =  5 years, 7 months) were followed and reassessed 3 years later (M age  =  8 years, 4 months). Scores on the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ; M. Rutter, A. Bailey, & C. Lord, 2003) decreased significantly over time in all symptom domains but especially in the social domain, and correlational findings suggested the presence of 2 distinct developmental trajectories—social communication and repetitive behaviors—that interact across time. Furthermore, 7 children (19% of sample) made substantial changes to the extent that they failed to meet criteria on diagnostic instruments (the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule—Generic [ADOS-G; C. Lord, M. Rutter, P. C. DiLavore, & S. Risi, 1999] and the SCQ) 3 years later. Children showing diagnostic discontinuity were distinguishable from those who fulfilled ADOS-G criteria only in terms of the age at which they began receiving intervention. The presence of a significant proportion of children showing considerable progress over the 3-year period challenges assumptions of diagnostic continuity and highlights the potential long-term benefits of early intervention.
Clinical Implication of Elevated Human Cervical Cancer Oncogene-1 Expression in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Ying , Li Ke , Ren Zhonghai , Li Shenglei , Zhang Hongyan , Fan Qingxia
Published: April 2012

The human cervical cancer oncogene 1 (HCCR-1), a novel human oncoprotein, has been shown to be upregulated in various human tumors and plays a critical role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Here, the authors investigated HCCR-1 level in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) tissues and assessed the correlation between HCCR-1 level and prognosis of the patients with ESCC. HCCR-1 levels were investigated by immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, real-time quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting methods; Kaplan-Meier curve was used to evaluate the prognostic value of HCCR-1 level in patients with ESCC using log-rank test. HCCR-1 displayed high levels in ESCC tissues compared to squamous dysplasia tissues and normal esophageal epithelial tissues. No significant correlation was observed between the levels of HCCR-1 mRNA and protein and gender and age (all p>0.05) but obviously related to histological grade, clinical stage, and lymph node metastasis (all p<0.001). Moreover, the survival rate of the patients with low HCCR-1 levels was higher than that of the patients with high HCCR-1 levels (both p<0.05). These data demonstrate that HCCR-1 may be used as a novel predictor for the prognosis of the patients with ESCC.
Heterogeneous Fenton-like Degradation of Orange II in Water Using FeZSM-5 Zeolite Catalyst
Authors: Bolova Emre , Gunduz Gonul , Dukkanci Meral
Published: April 2012

In this study, Fenton-like degradation of Orange II in water was investigated over an FeZSM-5 zeolite catalyst prepared by ion exchange. A color removal of 99.99 % and a COD elimination of 55.0 % were achieved after a reaction time of 2h at 266.7 mM H2O2 at 323 K for 0.05 g/dm3 of Orange II solution at a pH around 7. Initial decolorization rate was described by an equation of -rAo = 6.4x103 e-30.7/RT COII,o CH2O2,o0.3 where R is in kJ/mol. No significant decay in decolorization efficiency of the used catalyst was observed.
“The Creative and the Resolvent”
Authors: Hurh Paul
Published: April 2012

Beginning with the influential readings by Jacques Lacan and Jacques Derrida, poststructuralist fascination with Edgar Allan Poe's detective tales has treated them as fables of analytical method and exposed them as posing an insoluble challenge to totalizing frameworks of interpretive analysis. These studies overlook an excised paragraph from Poe's first detective tale in which Poe displays the debt his model of analysis owes to historical sources. This essay discovers the origins of Poe's model of analysis by recovering its discursive context and argues that the poststructuralist conclusions are anticipated in part by Poe's deliberate attempts to translate that model into narrative. This model, inherited from scientific debates in Renaissance history, defines analysis as comprised of two reciprocal processes—the process of resolution and the process of composition. The first part of this essay addresses the original first paragraph of “The Murders in the Rue Morgue” (1841) and the definition of analysis that its restoration enables. The discoveries there lead to a reading of “The Man of the Crowd” (1841) as a failed first attempt to translate the dynamic processes of resolution and composition into a narrative system. By recovering a first paragraph that the poststructuralist criticism misses, this study finds “The Man of the Crowd” central to Poe's strategies of narrative deferral and yields an important pre-history of the deconstructive critical aporia that is their legacy.
The biology and the genetics of Hürthle cell tumors of the thyroid
Authors: Máximo Valdemar , Lima Jorge , Prazeres Hugo , Soares Paula , Sobrinho-Simões Manuel
Published: April 2012

The biology and the genetics of Hürthle cell tumors are reviewed starting from the characterization and differential diagnosis of the numerous benign and malignant, neoplastic and nonneoplastic lesions of the thyroid in which Hürthle cell transformation is frequently observed. The clinicopathologic and molecular evidence obtained from the comparative study of the aforementioned conditions indicate that Hürthle cell appearance represents a phenotype that is superimposed on the genotypic and conventional histopathologic features of the tumors. Hürthle cell tumors differ from their non-Hürthle counterparts regarding the prevalence of large deletions of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), mutations of mtDNA genes coding for oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) proteins (namely mutations of complex I subunit genes) and mutations of nuclear genes coding also for mitochondrial OXPHOS proteins. Such mitochondrial alterations lead to energy production defects in Hürthle cell tumors; the increased proliferation of mitochondria may reflect a compensatory mechanism for such defects and is associated with the overexpression of factors involved in mitochondrial biogenesis. The mitochondrial abnormalities are also thought to play a major role in the predisposition for necrosis instead of apoptosis which seems to be blocked in most Hürthle cell tumors. Finally, the results obtained in experimental models using cybrid cell lines and the data obtained from histopathologic and molecular studies of familial Hürthle cell tumors are used, together with the aforementioned genetic and epigenetic alterations, to progress in the understanding of the mechanisms through which mitochondrial abnormalities may be involved in the different steps of thyroid carcinogenesis, from tumor initiation to metastization.
Evaluation of Protective Gloves and Working Techniques for Reducing Hand‐arm Vibration Exposure in the Workplace
Authors: Milosevic Matija , Mcconville Kristiina M. Valter
Published: April 2012

Evaluation of Protective Gloves and Working Techniques for Reducing Hand‐arm Vibration Exposure in the Workplace: Matija MILOSEVIC, et al. Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Ryerson University, Canada—

Objectives

Operation of handheld power tools results in exposure to hand‐arm vibrations, which over time lead to numerous health complications. The objective of this study was to evaluate protective equipment and working techniques for the reduction of vibration exposure.

Methods

Vibration transmissions were recorded during different work techniques: with one‐ and two‐handed grip, while wearing protective gloves (standard, air and anti‐vibration gloves) and while holding a foam‐covered tool handle. The effect was examined by analyzing the reduction of transmitted vibrations at the wrist. The vibration transmission was recorded with a portable device using a triaxial accelerometer.

Results

The results suggest large and significant reductions of vibration with appropriate safety equipment. Reductions of 85.6% were achieved when anti‐vibration gloves were used.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that transmitted vibrations were affected by several factors and could be measured and significantly reduced.
A Comparative Study on Substituted Polyanilines for Supercapacitors
Authors: Basnayaka Punya A. , Alvi Farah , Ram Manoj K. , Tufts Robert , Kumar Ashok
Published: April 2012

The effect of two substituent groups, ortho-methoxy (-OCH3) and methyl (-CH3) in aniline, have been studied for supercapacitor applications. The polyaniline (PANI), poly (o-anisidine) (POA) and poly (o-toluidine) (POT) have been synthesized by oxidative polymerization method, and characterized by Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), UV–visible spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) techniques. The specific capacitance, charging/discharging and electrochemical impedance characteristics of the supercapacitor fabricated using PANI, POA, as well as POT electrodes are evaluated in 2M H2SO4electrolytic media. The highest specific capacitance of 400 F/g is calculated for PANI, whereas, POA and POT have exhibited 360 F/g and 325 F/g capacitance in supercapacitor studies.
Shaping of Diamonds in 1D Nanostructures and Strategies for Fabrication of All-Diamond Microcomponents
Authors: Orlanducci S. , Guglielmotti V. , Sessa V. , Tamburri E. , Terranova M.L. , Toschi F. , Rossi M.
Published: April 2012

The fabrication of low-dimensional diamond materials in form of nanowires is a stringent requirement for advanced electronic applications. However, the nanometric control of diamond materials into desired and tailored geometries, as those ones required for applications in the field of nano-photonics, is a really challenging and complex task using currently available processes. In the present paper we describe some recent results obtained using plasma-induced processes for the shaping of diamond films in fascinating 1D structures, such as nanowires, nanowhiskers and nanopillars, to be integrated in devices of technological interest.
Seed Biology of the Invasive Species Buffalobur (Solanum rostratum) in Northwest China
Authors: Shalimu Dilinuer , Qiu Juan , Tan Dunyan , Baskin Carol C. , Baskin Jerry M.
Published: April 2012

Buffalobur is an invasive summer annual species in Xinjiang Province, China. Our purpose was to investigate certain aspects of the seed biology of this weedy species that might be useful in controlling it. In contrast to a previous report that fresh seeds have physical (water-impermeable seed coat) plus physiological (low growth potential of embryo) dormancy, our results, along with those of others, verify that the seeds have only physiological dormancy. The seed's coat is water-permeable, the embryo is fully developed at seed maturity, and dormancy can be broken by cold stratification in the field during winter and early spring. Fifty-five percent of seeds buried in the soil in autumn germinated in the soil the following May, and 53% of the remaining nongerminated seeds germinated when tested in light in the laboratory. Thus, about 20% of the seeds did not germinate but were viable, demonstrating that the species forms at least a short-lived persistent seed bank. This information will be useful in planning a management strategy for this highly invasive species in northwest China.
Effects of fibres and rice husk ash on properties of heated HSC
Authors: Cifuentes Héctor , Leiva Carlos , Medina Fernando , Fernández-Pereira Constantino
Published: April 2012

This paper describes experimental research to study the influence of rice husk ash and polypropylene fibres of different lengths (6 and 24 mm) on the residual fracture mechanical behaviour of high-strength concrete (HSC). The evolution of residual mechanical properties with temperature (room temperature, 100°, 300°, 500° and 700°C) was analysed in various HSCs and compared with a non-reinforced reference concrete. The evolution of pore level with temperature was also studied and subsequently compared with the effect of adding fibres to HSC on preventing spalling at high temperatures. Concrete ductility was analysed through the residual characteristic length of concrete, as the characteristic length of HSC increases with high temperatures. Further study of the rice husk ash and other materials used in this study did not reveal any environmental problems.
The Health Care Home Model: Primary Health Care Meeting Public Health Goals
Authors: Grant Roy , Greene Danielle
Published: April 2012

In November 2010, the American Public Health Association endorsed the health care home model as an important way that primary care may contribute to meeting the public health goals of increasing access to care, reducing health disparities, and better integrating health care with public health systems. Here we summarize the elements of the health care home (also called the medical home) model, evidence for its clinical and public health efficacy, and its place within the context of health care reform legislation. The model also has limitations, especially with regard to its degree of involvement with the communities in which care is delivered. Several actions could be undertaken to further develop, implement, and sustain the health care home.
Geographic Poverty and Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Cervical Cancer Precursor Rates in Connecticut, 2008–2009
Authors: Niccolai Linda M. , Julian Pamela J. , Bilinski Alyssa , Mehta Niti R. , Meek James I. , Zelterman Daniel , Hadler James L. , Sosa Lynn
Published: April 2012

Objectives. We examined associations of geographic measures of poverty, race, ethnicity, and city status with rates of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or higher and adenocarcinoma in situ (CIN2+/AIS), known precursors to cervical cancer.

Methods. We identified 3937 cases of CIN2+/AIS among women aged 20 to 39 years in statewide surveillance data from Connecticut for 2008 to 2009. We geocoded cases to census tracts and used census data to calculate overall and age-specific rates. Poisson regression determined whether rates differed by geographic measures.

Results. The average annual rate of CIN2+/AIS was 417.6 per 100 000 women. Overall, higher rates of CIN2+/AIS were associated with higher levels of poverty and higher proportions of Black residents. Poverty was the strongest and most consistently associated measure. However, among women aged 20 to 24 years, we observed inverse associations between poverty and CIN2+/AIS rates.

Conclusions. Disparities in cervical cancer precursors exist for poverty and race, but these effects are age dependent. This information is necessary to monitor human papillomavirus vaccine impact and target vaccination strategies.
Neighborhood Social Inequalities in Road Traffic Injuries: The Influence of Traffic Volume and Road Design
Authors: Morency Patrick , Gauvin Lise , Plante Céline , Fournier Michel , Morency Catherine
Published: April 2012

Objectives. We examined the extent to which differential traffic volume and road geometry can explain social inequalities in pedestrian, cyclist, and motor vehicle occupant injuries across wealthy and poor urban areas.

Methods. We performed a multilevel observational study of all road users injured over 5 years (n = 19 568) at intersections (n = 17 498) in a large urban area (Island of Montreal, Canada). We considered intersection-level (traffic estimates, major roads, number of legs) and area-level (population density, commuting travel modes, household income) characteristics in multilevel Poisson regressions that nested intersections in 506 census tracts.

Results. There were significantly more injured pedestrians, cyclists, and motor vehicle occupants at intersections in the poorest than in the richest areas. Controlling for traffic volume, intersection geometry, and pedestrian and cyclist volumes greatly attenuated the event rate ratios between intersections in the poorest and richest areas for injured pedestrians (−70%), cyclists (−44%), and motor vehicle occupants (−44%).

Conclusions. Roadway environment can explain a substantial portion of the excess rate of road traffic injuries in the poorest urban areas.
“Here Man Learns About Himself”
Authors: McLeary Erin , Toon Elizabeth
Published: April 2012

When the American Museum of Health (AMH) opened in 1939 at the World’s Fair, its popularity convinced its organizers that the AMH was merely the first in a nationwide network of health museums. The AMH’s organizers had imported an approach to health education developed in Germany, which promoted health as a positive attribute through interactive, visually impressive displays that relied on clarity and simplicity—as epitomized by the “Transparent Man”—to encourage a feeling of wonder among exhibit goers. However, other museum professionals rejected this approach, and the AMH failed to catalyze a broad health museum movement. Nevertheless, the notion that presenting the body as an object of wonder will improve the public’s health has reappeared in the more recent past, as popular anatomical shows claim that exposing the interior of the human body will convince viewers to live healthier lives.
Community Health Workers as Drivers of a Successful Community-Based Disease Management Initiative
Authors: Peretz Patricia J. , Matiz Luz Adriana , Findley Sally , Lizardo Maria , Evans David , McCord Mary
Published: April 2012

In 2005, local leaders in New York City developed the Washington Heights/Inwood Network for Asthma Program to address the burden of asthma in their community. Bilingual community health workers based in community organizations and the local hospital provided culturally appropriate education and support to families who needed help managing asthma. Families participating in the yearlong care coordination program received comprehensive asthma education, home environmental assessments, trigger reduction strategies, and clinical and social referrals. Since 2006, 472 families have enrolled in the yearlong program. After 12 months, hospitalizations and emergency department visits decreased by more than 50%, and caregiver confidence in controlling the child's asthma increased to nearly 100%. Key to the program's success was the commitment and involvement of community partners from program inception to date.
Usage of "smart" glass panels in commercial and residential buildings
Authors: Gavrilovic Dragan , Stojic Jasmina
Published: April 2012

This paper examines specific conceptual approach to the implementation of new
"smart" materials having phase-changing own characteristics and maximum
potential for their installation and exploitation of their performance in the
commercial and residential buildings architecture. Such approach somewhat
changes the usual traditional practice of installing "classical" materials,
i.e. installable components into the architectural structure. The
immeasurably superior performance of new elements installed in the
architectural system is thus utilized, to the total energy benefit of the
structural system. Using new "smart" components would result in energy
cost-effective impact, reflected in the reduced the overall energy
consumption of a given structure as well as in better effect sustainability
of buildings in bioclimatic terms at the micro and macro levels in
comparisonto the usual performance of traditionally constructed buildings.
Planning regulations in the USA and their implications on urban design in the central city zone
Authors: Dinic Milena , Mitkovic Petar
Published: April 2012

At the beginning of the 20th century, urban planning of the American cities
was founded on the strong capitalist system and vast available land area.
After a long period of planning, which was suited for the use of automobiles,
nowadays the deficiencies both in the urban structure and social sphere are
very obvious. Modern planning is striving to prescribe guidelines for urban
design and thus create a continuity of cityscape and emphasize the pedestrian
character of the area, particularly in central city zones. Town planning in
the USA comprises local regulations which are suited to the needs of
individual cities. Particularly important are the implications which certain
town planning regulations have on the design of physical structures in the
central city zone, which is the research goal of this paper.
Application of benchmarking method in the construction companies
Authors: Markovic Ljubo , Dutina Velimir , Kovacevic Miljan
Published: April 2012

The paper presents a benchmarking method dealing with identification of
measurable business performance indicators in order to make comparison with
the "Best in Class". Fields of application, some classifications in use and
benchmarking process phases are outlined. The paper describes systems used in
construction companies in different countries (Chile (CDT), USA (CII), Brazil
(SISIN) and United Kingdom (KPI)) which indicate the requirements related to
the use of performance measures for benchmarking in the construction industry
and identify key factors of effective design and implementation of
performance measurement system.
The environmental revitalization of the space for children
Authors: Stankovic Danica
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this study is to deal with the problem of establishing
specific child-environment relations. The goal of this paper is to indicate
the relation children's developing needs and features such space has to have.
The paper gives recommendations for revitalization of environmental values of
this area as particularly important in the development of children. Through
definition and reconsideration of spatial and functional structure of the
space for stay in the context of the impact on the psychological needs of
children, it proposes measures for redefinition of the existing concept of
the space for stay in order to investigate its improvement.
Cone whose directrix is a cylindrical helix and the vertex of the directrix is: A cochleoid cone
Authors: Nikolic Vladan , Krasic Sonja , Nikolic Olivera
Published: April 2012

The paper treated a cone with a cylindrical helix as a directrix and the
vertex on it. Characteristic elements of a surface formed in such way and the
basis are identified, and characteristic flat intersections of planes are
classified. Also considered is the potential of practical application of such
cone in architecture and design.
Internal Control Reporting and Audit Report Lags: Further Evidence
Authors: Munsif Vishal , Raghunandan K , Rama Dasaratha V.
Published: April 2012

Internal control reporting continues to be of significant interest to regulators and legislators, as evidenced by the internal control-related requirements of the Dodd-Frank Act (2010) and the JOBS Act (2012) to exempt smaller firms from the requirements of Section 404. We extend prior research on the association between internal control weaknesses and audit report lag by (1) using data from 2008 and 2009, (2) comparing accelerated and non-accelerated filers, and (3) examining the impact of remediation of previously disclosed internal control problems. We find that (1) in 2008, the increase in audit report lag in the presence of material weaknesses in internal control is lower for non-accelerated filers as compared to accelerated filers, and (2) while the effect of a material internal control weakness on audit report lag is significantly lower in 2009 than in 2008 for accelerated filers, there is no such change for non-accelerated filers. We also find that for firms remediating previously disclosed internal control problems, there is a significant decline in audit report lag; yet, the remediating firms continue to have higher reporting lags than firms that had clean Section 404 opinions in both years. We also find that, at least with respect to the effect of internal control problems on audit report lag, the “small accelerated filers” (defined as those with market capitalization less than $250 million) are treated by the auditors as being (1) substantively similar to other accelerated filers, and (2) quite distinct from non-accelerated filers.
The Role of Liver Fructose-1,6-Bisphosphatase in Regulating Appetite and Adiposity
Authors: Visinoni Sherley , Khalid Nurul Fathiah Izzati , Joannides Christos N. , Shulkes Arthur , Yim Mildred , Whitehead Jon , Tiganis Tony , Lamont Benjamin J. , Favaloro Jenny M. , Proietto Joseph , Andrikopoulos Sofianos , Fam Barbara C.
Published: April 2012

Liver fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) is a regulatory enzyme in gluconeogenesis that is elevated by obesity and dietary fat intake. Whether FBPase functions only to regulate glucose or has other metabolic consequences is not clear; therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the importance of liver FBPase in body weight regulation. To this end we performed comprehensive physiologic and biochemical assessments of energy balance in liver-specific transgenic FBPase mice and negative control littermates of both sexes. In addition, hepatic branch vagotomies and pharmacologic inhibition studies were performed to confirm the role of FBPase. Compared with negative littermates, liver-specific FBPase transgenic mice had 50% less adiposity and ate 15% less food but did not have altered energy expenditure. The reduced food consumption was associated with increased circulating leptin and cholecystokinin, elevated fatty acid oxidation, and 3-β-hydroxybutyrate ketone levels, and reduced appetite-stimulating neuropeptides, neuropeptide Y and Agouti-related peptide. Hepatic branch vagotomy and direct pharmacologic inhibition of FBPase in transgenic mice both returned food intake and body weight to the negative littermates. This is the first study to identify liver FBPase as a previously unknown regulator of appetite and adiposity and describes a novel process by which the liver participates in body weight regulation.
Serum Levels of Receptors for Advanced Glycation End Products in Normal-Weight and Obese Children Born Small and Large for Gestational Age
Authors: Chiavaroli Valentina , D’Adamo Ebe , Giannini Cosimo , de Giorgis Tommaso , De Marco Stefania , Chiarelli Francesco , Mohn Angelika
Published: April 2012

OBJECTIVE

To assess potential alterations in soluble and endogenous secretory receptors for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE and esRAGE) in normal-weight (NW) and obese (Ob) children born small (SGA) and large (LGA) compared with appropriate for gestational age (AGA) subjects and to explore if birth weight (BW), insulin resistance (IR), and obesity represent independent risk factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We categorized 130 prepubertal children into six groups according to BW and obesity and evaluated sRAGE, esRAGE, and homeostasis model assessment of IR.

RESULTS

sRAGE and esRAGE were lower in Ob SGA and LGA children than Ob AGA subjects (all P < 0.05), and in NW SGA and LGA children than NW AGA subjects (all P < 0.05). Interestingly, BW and IR were significantly and independently related to RAGE.

CONCLUSIONS

sRAGE and esRAGE are decreased in SGA and LGA children, and BW and IR seem to play an important role in the reduction of RAGE.
Defining Insulin Resistance From Hyperinsulinemic-Euglycemic Clamps
Authors: Tam Charmaine S. , Xie Wenting , Johnson William D. , Cefalu William T. , Redman Leanne M. , Ravussin Eric
Published: April 2012

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to determine a cutoff point for identifying insulin resistance from hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies performed at 120 mU/m2 ⋅ min in a white population and to generate equations from routinely measured clinic and blood variables for predicting clamp-derived glucose disposal rate (GDR), i.e., insulin sensitivity.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We assembled data from hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps (120 mU/m2 ⋅ min insulin dose) performed at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center between 2001 and 2011. Subjects were divided into subjects with diabetes (n = 51) and subjects without diabetes (n = 116) by self-report and/or fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL.

RESULTS

We found that 75% of individuals with a GDR <5.6 mg/kg fat-free mass (FFM) + 17.7 ⋅ min were truly insulin resistant. Cutoff values for GDRs normalized for body weight, body surface area, or FFM were 4.9 mg/kg ⋅ min, 212.2 mg/m2 ⋅ min, and 7.3 mg/kgFFM ⋅ min, respectively. Next, we used classification tree models to predict GDR from routinely measured clinical and biochemical variables. We found that individual insulin resistance could be estimated with good sensitivity (89%) and specificity (67%) from the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) >5.9 or 2.8< HOMA-IR <5.9 with HDL <51 mg/dL.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a cutoff for defining insulin resistance from hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps. Moreover, we now provide classification trees for predicting insulin resistance from routinely measured clinical and biochemical markers. These findings extend the clamp from a research tool to providing a clinically meaningful message for participants in research studies, potentially providing greater opportunity for earlier recognition of insulin resistance.
Fasting Insulin Level Is Positively Associated With Incidence of Hypertension Among American Young Adults
Authors: Xun Pengcheng , Liu Kiang , Cao Wenhong , Sidney Stephen , Williams O. Dale , He Ka
Published: April 2012

OBJECTIVE

Although hyperinsulinemia, a surrogate of insulin resistance, may play a role in the pathogenesis of hypertension (HTN), the longitudinal association between fasting insulin level and HTN development is still controversial. We examined the relation between fasting insulin and incidence of HTN in a large prospective cohort.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective cohort of 3,413 Americans, aged 18–30 years, without HTN in 1985 (baseline) were enrolled. Six follow-ups were conducted in 1987, 1990, 1992, 1995, 2000, and 2005. Fasting insulin and glucose levels were assessed by a radioimmunoassay and hexokinase method, respectively. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs of incident HTN (defined as the initiation of antihypertensive medication, systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg, or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg).

RESULTS

During the 20-year follow-up, 796 incident cases were identified. After adjustment for potential confounders, participants in the highest quartile of insulin levels had a significantly higher incidence of HTN (HR 1.85 [95% CI 1.42–2.40]; Ptrend < 0.001) compared with those in the lowest quartile. The positive association persisted in each sex/ethnicity/weight status subgroup. A similar dose-response relation was observed when insulin-to-glucose ratio or homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance was used as exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Fasting serum insulin levels or hyperinsulinemia in young adulthood was positively associated with incidence of HTN later in life for both men and women, African Americans and Caucasians, and those with normal weight and overweight. Our findings suggested that fasting insulin ascertainment may help clinicians identify those at high risk of HTN.
Influence of Inward Pressure of the Transducer on Lateral Abdominal Muscle Thickness During Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Ishida Hiroshi , Watanabe Sususmu
Published: April 2012

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study, technical note.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to quantify changes in the thickness of the transversus abdominis, internal oblique, and external oblique muscles induced by different inward pressures of the transducer during ultrasound imaging (USI).

Background

USI of the lateral abdominal muscles is increasingly used in managing musculoskeletal dysfunction. However, to the best of our knowledge, no study has evaluated the influence of different inward pressures of the transducer on the lateral abdominal muscle thickness during USI.

Methods

Thirty healthy male volunteers participated in this study. The thickness of the transversus abdominis, internal oblique, and external oblique muscles was measured with USI by the same rater in 4 conditions of inward pressures of 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 N. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC1,1), with 95% confidence intervals, were calculated, and a repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to assess the influence of inward pressure on the thickness of the lateral abdominal muscles.

Results

The thickness of the transversus abdominis, internal oblique, and external oblique muscles was significantly different among the 4 conditions (P<.038). The mean difference between the 0.5-N and 4.0-N conditions was greater than the minimal detectable change of the 0.5-N condition in the lateral abdominal muscles.

Conclusion

The difference in magnitude produced by the forces under different conditions was meaningful. When using a technique that involves a handheld transducer, the examiner should attempt to maintain consistent inward pressure of the transducer during USI to quantify the thickness of lateral abdominal muscles. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(9):815–818, Epub 19 April 2012. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.4064
Eighteenth-Century Literary Precursors ofMrs Warren’s Profession
Authors: Kent Brad
Published: April 2012

Bernard Shaw’s Mrs Warren’s Profession is almost solely discussed in terms of its portrayal of prostitution in relation to the theatre of its day. In this light, his work is defined as a decisive break with what came before it. But Shaw warned against this tendency to label literature that challenges contemporary norms as necessarily original. Instead, he called on his audience to recognize the cyclical nature of literature, noting that what is new to one generation is most often merely that which was discarded by the previous one. By adopting the longer view, this essay examines Mrs Warren’s Profession alongside some well-known prostitute narratives of the eighteenth century to argue that while Shaw might have overturned one tradition, there is much to suggest that he concurrently tapped into another.