bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic variability of maternal effect on body measurements and its intra‐ and inter‐genetic relationship with direct effect in Japanese Black calves
Authors: MUNIM Tahmina , OIKAWA Takuro , IBI Takayuki , KUNIEDA Tetsuo , HOQUE Md. Azharul
Published: August 2011

This study was conducted to evaluate the importance of maternal effect on body measurement traits at an early stage of growth, and to estimate the genetic relationships between direct and maternal effects and among body measurement traits at 0 month (0‐mo) and 4 months (4‐mo) of age in a population of Japanese Black calves. Body measurements and body weight of 889 Japanese Black calves were estimated with the use of an animal model by the Residual Maximum Likelihood procedure. Direct heritabilities were low to moderate, ranging between 0.17 ± 0.09 and 0.48 ± 0.13 at 0‐mo, and slightly lower, ranging between 0.15 ± 0.07 and 0.33 ± 0.13 at 4‐mo. Estimated maternal heritabilities were low to moderate, ranging between 0.08 ± 0.07 and 0.33 ± 0.07 at 0‐mo and 0.13 ± 0.06 to 0.33 ± 0.06 at 4‐mo. The direct genetic correlations between 0‐mo and 4‐mo were moderate to highly positive, ranging from 0.53 ± 0.23 to 0.96 ± 0.09. The estimated direct genetic correlation of chest width with other width traits was low and positive at both ages, whereas with hip width it was high and positive (0.80 ± 0.09) at 0‐mo, suggesting that simultaneous improvement of body width of the front and back parts is possible. Maternal genetic effects were relatively independent of direct genetic effects for body measurement traits and can be considered in genetic evaluation.
Sexual dimorphism of sulcal length asymmetry in the cerebrum of adult cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Imai Noritaka , Sawada Kazuhiko , Fukunishi Katsuhiro , Sakata‐Haga Hiromi , Fukui Yoshihiro
Published: August 2011

The present study aimed to quantitatively clarify the gross anatomical asymmetry and sexual dimorphism of the cerebral hemispheres of cynomolgus monkeys. While the fronto‐occipital length of the right and left cerebral hemispheres was not different between sexes, a statistically significant rightward asymmetry was detected in the cerebral width at the perisylvian region in females, but not in males (narrower width of the left side in the females). An asymmetry quotient of the sulcal lengths revealed a rightward asymmetry in the inferior occipital sulcus and a leftward asymmetry in the central and intraparietal sulci in both sexes. However, the laterality of the lengths of other sulci was different for males and females. The arcuate sulcus was directed rightward in males but there was no rightward bias in females. Interestingly, the principle sulcus and lateral fissure were left‐lateralized in the males, but right‐lateralized in the females. The results suggest that lateralization patterns are regionally and sexually different in the cerebrum of cynomolgus monkeys. The present results provide a reference for quantitatively evaluating the normality of the cerebral cortical morphology in cynomolgus monkeys.
Protostellar outflows with smoothed particle magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Bürzle Florian , Clark Paul C. , Stasyszyn Federico , Dolag Klaus , Klessen Ralf S.
Published: August 2011

The protostellar collapse of a molecular cloud core is usually accompanied by outflow phenomena. The latter are thought to be driven by magnetorotational processes from the central parts of the protostellar disc. While several 3D adaptive mesh refinement/nested grid studies of outflow phenomena in collapsing magnetically supercritical dense cores have been reported in the literature, so far no such simulation has been performed using the smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method. This is mainly due to intrinsic numerical difficulties in handling magnetohydrodynamics within SPH, which only recently were partly resolved. In this work, we use an approach where we evolve the magnetic field via the induction equation, augmented with stability correction and divergence cleaning schemes. We consider the collapse of a rotating core of one solar mass, threaded by a weak magnetic field initially parallel to the rotation axis so that the core is magnetically supercritical. We show that smoothed particle magnetohydrodynamics is able to handle the magnetorotational processes connected with outflow phenomena, and to produce meaningful results which are in good agreement with findings reported in the literature. Especially, our numerical scheme allows for a quantitative analysis of the evolution of the ratio of the toroidal to the poloidal magnetic field, which we performed in this work.
Defining Boundaries with Notch
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: August 2011

Notch-mediated inhibition of the microRNA
bantam
helps to stabilize a compartment boundary by inhibiting cell proliferation and promoting actin polymerization.
An automatic version of a reading disorder test
Authors: Maier Andreas , Hönig Flonan , Steidl Stefan , Nöth Elmar , Horndasch Stefanie , Sauerhöfer Elisabeth , Kratz Oliver , Moll Gunther
Published: August 2011

We present a novel system to automatically diagnose reading disorders. The system is based on a speech recognition engine with a module for prosodic analysis. The reading disorder test is based on eight different subtests. In each of the subtests, the system achieves a recognition accuracy of at least 95%. As in the perceptual version of the test, the results of the subtests are then joined into a final test result to determine whether the child has a reading disorder. In the final classification stage, the system identifies 98.3% of the 120 children correctly. In the future, our system will facilitate the clinical evaluation of reading disorders.
Effects of aerobic vs. resistance training on visceral and liver fat stores, liver enzymes, and insulin resistance by HOMA in overweight adults from STRRIDE AT/RT
Authors: Slentz Cris A. , Bateman Lori A. , Willis Leslie H. , Shields A. Tamlyn , Tanner Charles J. , Piner Lucy W. , Hawk Victoria H. , Muehlbauer Michael J. , Samsa Greg P. , Nelson Rendon C. , Huffman Kim M. , Bales Connie W. , Houmard Joseph A. , Kraus William E.
Published: August 2011

While the benefits of exercise are clear, many unresolved issues surround the optimal exercise prescription. Many organizations recommend aerobic training (AT) and resistance training (RT), yet few studies have compared their effects alone or in combination. The purpose of this study, part of Studies Targeting Risk Reduction Interventions Through Defined Exercise-Aerobic Training and/or Resistance Training (STRRIDE/AT/RT), was to compare the effects of AT, RT, and the full combination (AT/RT) on central ectopic fat, liver enzymes, and fasting insulin resistance [homeostatic model assessment (HOMA)]. In a randomized trial, 249 subjects [18–70 yr old, overweight, sedentary, with moderate dyslipidemia (LDL cholesterol 130–190 mg/dl or HDL cholesterol ≤40 mg/dl for men or ≤45 mg/dl for women)] performed an initial 4-mo run-in period. Of these, 196 finished the run-in and were randomized into one of the following 8-mo exercise-training groups: 1) RT, which comprised 3 days/wk, 8 exercises, 3 sets/exercise, 8–12 repetitions/set, 2) AT, which was equivalent to ∼19.2 km/wk (12 miles/wk) at 75% peak O2 uptake, and 3) full AT + full RT (AT/RT), with 155 subjects completing the intervention. The primary outcome variables were as follows: visceral and liver fat via CT, plasma liver enzymes, and HOMA. AT led to significant reductions in liver fat, visceral fat, alanine aminotransferase, HOMA, and total and subcutaneous abdominal fat (all P < 0.05). RT resulted in a decrease in subcutaneous abdominal fat ( P < 0.05) but did not significantly improve the other variables. AT was more effective than RT at improving visceral fat, liver-to-spleen ratio, and total abdominal fat (all P < 0.05) and trended toward a greater reduction in liver fat score ( P < 0.10). The effects of AT/RT were statistically indistinguishable from the effects of AT. These data show that, for overweight and obese individuals who want to reduce measures of visceral fat and fatty liver infiltration and improve HOMA and alanine aminotransferase, a moderate amount of aerobic exercise is the most time-efficient and effective exercise mode.
Impact of Nanograting Phase-Shift on Light Absorption
Enhancement in Plasmonics-Based Metal-Semiconductor-Metal
Photodetectors
Authors: Das Narottam , Karar Ayman , Tan Chee Leong , Alameh Kamal , Lee Yong Tak
Published: August 2011

The finite difference time-domain (FDTD) method is used to simulate the
light absorption enhancement in a plasmonic metal-semiconductor-metal
photodetector (MSM-PD) structure employing a metal nanograting with
phase shifts. The metal fingers of the MSM-PDs are etched at
appropriate depths to maximize light absorption through plasmonic
effects into a subwavelength aperture. We also analyse the
nano-grating phase shift and groove profiles obtained typically in our
experiments using focused ion beam milling and atomic force microscopy
and discuss the dependency of light absorption enhancement on the
nano-gratings phase shift and groove profiles inscribed into MSM-PDs.
Our simulation results show that the nano-grating phase shift
blue-shifts the wavelength at which the light absorption enhancement is
maximum, and that the combined effects of the nano-grating groove
shape and phase shift degrade the light absorption enhancement by up
to 50%.
New Strategies in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma: Translating Findings from Gene Expression Analyses into Clinical Practice
Authors: Friedberg Jonathan W.
Published: August 2011

Gene expression profiling has had a major impact on our understanding of the biology and heterogeneity of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Using this technology, investigators can identify biologic subgroups of DLBCL that provide unique targets for rational therapeutic intervention. This review summarizes these potential targets and updates the progress of clinical development of exciting novel agents for the treatment of DLBCL. Results of ongoing studies suggest that in the near future, we will be able to use gene expression profiling, or an accurate surrogate, to define the best therapeutic approach for individual patients with DLBCL. Clin Cancer Res; 17(19); 6112–7. ©2011 AACR.
Renal Insufficiency After Contrast Media Administration Trial II (REMEDIAL II)
Authors: Briguori Carlo , Visconti Gabriella , Focaccio Amelia , Airoldi Flavio , Valgimigli Marco , Sangiorgi Giuseppe Massimo , Golia Bruno , Ricciardelli Bruno , Condorelli Gerolama ,   for the REMEDIAL II Investigators
Published: August 2011

Background—

The RenalGuard System, which creates high urine output and fluid balancing, may be beneficial in preventing contrast-induced acute kidney injury.

Methods and Results—

The Renal Insufficiency After Contrast Media Administration Trial II (REMEDIAL II) trial is a randomized, multicenter, investigator-driven trial addressing the prevention of contrast-induced acute kidney injury in high-risk patients. Patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤30 mL · min
−1
· 1.73 m
−2
and/or a risk score ≥11 were randomly assigned to sodium bicarbonate solution and N-acetylcysteine (control group) or hydration with saline and N-acetylcysteine controlled by the RenalGuard System and furosemide (RenalGuard group). The primary end point was an increase of ≥0.3 mg/dL in the serum creatinine concentration at 48 hours after the procedure. The secondary end points included serum cystatin C kinetics and rate of in-hospital dialysis. Contrast-induced acute kidney injury occurred in 16 of 146 patients in the RenalGuard group (11%) and in 30 of 146 patients in the control group (20.5%; odds ratio, 0.47; 95% confidence interval, 0.24 to 0.92). There were 142 patients (48.5%) with an estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤30 mL · min
−1
· 1.73 and 149 patients (51.5%) with only a risk score ≥11. Subgroup analysis according to inclusion criteria showed a similarly lower risk of adverse events (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤30 mL · min
−1
· 1.73 m
−2
: odds ratio, 0.44; risk score ≥11: odds ratio, 0.45;
P
for interaction=0.97). Changes in cystatin C at 24 hours (0.02±0.32 versus −0.08±0.26;
P
=0.002) and 48 hours (0.12±0.42 versus 0.03±0.31;
P
=0.001) and the rate of in-hospital dialysis (4.1% versus 0.7%;
P
=0.056) were higher in the control group.

Conclusion—

RenalGuard therapy is superior to sodium bicarbonate and N-acetylcysteine in preventing contrast-induced acute kidney injury in high-risk patients.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrial.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01098032.
Irwin Keller: A Performer of Parts
Authors: Schor Esther
Published: August 2011

Irwin Keller performs on the pulpit as Reb Irwin of Congregation Ner Shalom in Cotati, California, but his better-known role is as Winnie with the Kinsey Sicks, “America's Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet.” Keller speaks in an interview about performing a double life.
Idealizing and Unraveling the Possibilities of Virtual Realities in Kevin Kerr's SPINE
Authors: Chui Jane Wong Yeang
Published: August 2011

Kevin Kerr's SPINE explores alternate (virtual) worlds and the part they play in the development of modern technology. The interaction between “real” and virtual worlds questions the benefits and threats of cyber-reality: What is left of human communication and desire when reality can be manipulated with machines?
Improved Madden–Julian Oscillations with Improved Physics: The Impact of Modified Convection Parameterizations
Authors: Zhou Lei , B. Neale Richard , Jochum Markus , Murtugudde Raghu
Published: August 2011

Two modifications are made to the deep convection parameterization in the NCAR Community Climate System Model, version 3 (CCSM3): a dilute plume approximation and an implementation of the convective momentum transport (CMT). These changes lead to significant improvement in the simulated Madden–Julian oscillations (MJOs). With the dilute plume approximation, temperature and convective heating perturbations become more positively correlated. Consequently, more available potential energy is generated and the intraseasonal variability (ISV) becomes stronger. The organization of ISV is also improved, which is manifest in coherent structures between different MJO phases and an improved simulation of the eastward propagation of MJOs with a reasonable eastward speed. The improved propagation can be attributed to a better simulation of the low-level zonal winds due to the inclusion of CMT. The authors posit that the large-scale zonal winds are akin to a selective conveyor belt that facilitates the organization of ISVs into highly coherent structures, which are important features of observed MJOs. The conclusions are supported by two supplementary experiments, which include the dilute plume approximation and CMT separately.
Questions asked and answered in pilot and feasibility randomized controlled trials
Authors: Shanyinde Milensu , Pickering Ruth M , Weatherall Mark
Published: August 2011

Background

In the last decade several authors have reviewed the features of pilot and feasibility studies and advised on the issues that should be addressed within them. We extend this literature by examining published pilot/feasibility trials that incorporate random allocation, examining their stated objectives, results presented and conclusions drawn, and comparing drug and non-drug trials.

Methods

A search of EMBASE and MEDLINE databases for 2000 to 2009 revealed 3652 papers that met our search criteria. A random sample of 50 was selected for detailed review.

Results

Most of the papers focused on efficacy: those reporting drug trials additionally addressed safety/toxicity; while those reporting non-drug trials additionally addressed methodological issues. In only 56% (95% confidence intervals 41% to 70%) were methodological issues discussed in substantial depth, 18% (95% confidence interval 9% to 30%) discussed future trials and only 12% (95% confidence interval 5% to 24%) of authors were actually conducting one.

Conclusions

Despite recent advice on topics that can appropriately be described as pilot or feasibility studies the large majority of recently published papers where authors have described their trial as a pilot or addressing feasibility do not primarily address methodological issues preparatory to planning a subsequent study, and this is particularly so for papers reporting drug trials. Many journals remain willing to accept the pilot/feasibility designation for a trial, possibly as an indication of inconclusive results or lack of adequate sample size.
Effects of acute adult and early-in-life bladder inflammation on bladder neuropeptides in adult female rats
Authors: Shaffer Amber D , Ball Chelsea L , Robbins Meredith T , Ness Timothy J , Randich Alan
Published: August 2011

Background

The purpose of the present study was to determine how acute adult and/or prior early-in life (EIL; P14-P16) exposure to bladder inflammation affects bladder content of calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP). Estrous cycle influences were also studied in the adult-treatment conditions.

Methods

In Experiment 1, intravesical zymosan or isoflurane anesthesia alone was administered to adult female rats. Bladders and serum were collected 24 hours later during each phase of the estrous cycle. In Experiment 2, zymosan or anesthesia alone was administered EIL and as adults, with bladder tissue collection 24 h later.

Results

In general, Experiment 1 showed that bladder content of both CGRP and SP was increased by inflammation. This effect was significant when data were collapsed across all phases of the estrous cycle, but was only significant during proestrus when individual comparisons were made during each phase of estrous. Also, adult bladder inflammation significantly reduced estradiol levels. In Experiment 2, bladder content of CGRP and SP was significantly increased in rats receiving EIL and/or adult inflammation. Bladder weights were also significantly increased by inflammation.

Conclusions

These data indicate that bladder CGRP and SP are maximally increased during the proestrus phase of the estrous cycle in inflamed adult female rats. EIL exposure to bladder inflammation alone can also produce an increase in CGRP and SP lasting into adulthood. Therefore, EIL experience with bladder inflammation may predispose an organism to experience a painful bladder disorder as an adult by increasing primary afferent content of CGRP and/or SP.
Murine mammary tumor cells with a claudin-low genotype
Authors: Campbell Craig I , Thompson Devan E , Siwicky Megan D , Moorehead Roger A
Published: August 2011

Background

Molecular classification of human breast cancers has identified at least 5 distinct tumor subtypes; luminal A, luminal B, Her2-enriched, basal-like and claudin-low. The claudin-low subtype was identified in 2007 and is characterized by low expression of luminal differentiation markers and claudins 3, 4 and 7 and high levels of mesenchymal markers. Claudin-low tumors have a reported prevalence of 7-14% and these tumors have a poor prognosis.

Results

In this study we report the characterization of several cell lines established from mammary tumors that develop in MTB-IGFIR transgenic mice. Two lines, RM11A and RJ348 present with histological features and gene expression patterns that resemble claudin-low breast tumors. Specifically, RM11A and RJ348 cells express high levels of the mesenchymal genes Zeb1, Zeb2, Twist1 and Twist2 and very low levels of E-cadherin and claudins 3, 4 and 7. The RM11A and RJ348 cells are also highly tumorigenic when re-introduced into the mammary fat pad of mice.

Conclusions

Mammary tumor cells established from MTB-IGFIR transgenic mice can be used as in vitro and in vivo model systems to further our understanding of the poorly characterized, claudin-low, breast cancer subtype.
Polycation stabilization of graphene suspensions
Authors: ul Hasan Kamran , Sandberg Mats O , Nur Omer , Willander Magnus
Published: August 2011

Graphene is a leading contender for the next-generation electronic devices. We report a method to produce graphene membranes in the solution phase using polymeric imidazolium salts as a transferring medium. Graphene membranes were reduced from graphene oxides by hydrazine in the presence of the polyelectrolyte which is found to be a stable and homogeneous dispersion for the resulting graphene in the aqueous solution. A simple device with gold contacts on both sides was fabricated in order to observe the electronic properties.
Decline of influenza-specific CD8+ T cell repertoire in healthy geriatric donors
Authors: Lee Jessica B , Oelke Mathias , Ramachandra Lakshmi , Canaday David H , Schneck Jonathan P
Published: August 2011

Background

While influenza vaccination results in protective antibodies against primary infections, clearance of infection is primarily mediated through CD8+T cells. Studying the CD8+T cell response to influenza epitopes is crucial in understanding the disease associated morbidity and mortality especially in at risk populations such as the elderly. We compared the CD8+T cell response to immunodominant and subdominant influenza epitopes in HLA-A2+control, adult donors, aged 21-42, and in geriatric donors, aged 65 and older.

Results

We used a novel artificial Antigen Presenting Cell (aAPC) based stimulation assay to reveal responses that could not be detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISpot). 14 younger control donors and 12 geriatric donors were enrolled in this study. The mean number of influenza-specific subdominant epitopes per control donor detected by ELISpot was only 1.4 while the mean detected by aAPC assay was 3.3 (p = 0.0096). Using the aAPC assay, 92% of the control donors responded to at least one subdominant epitopes, while 71% of control donors responded to more than one subdominant influenza-specific response. 66% of geriatric donors lacked a subdominant influenza-specific response and 33% of geriatric donors responded to only 1 subdominant epitope. The difference in subdominant response between age groups is statistically significant (p = 0.0003).

Conclusion

Geriatric donors lacked the broad, multi-specific response to subdominant epitopes seen in the control donors. Thus, we conclude that aging leads to a decrease in the subdominant influenza-specific CTL responses which may contribute to the increased morbidity and mortality in older individuals.
An evaluation of the preoperative hemoglobin level as a prognostic factor for oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Cordella Claudia , Luebbers Heinz-Theo , Rivelli Valentina , Grätz Klaus W , Kruse Astrid L
Published: August 2011

Background

Hypoxia seems to be an influencing factor for oral squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), and several immunohistochemical markers have been discussed in this regard. The aim of the present study was to evaluate preoperative hemoglobin levels as a prognostic factor for oral SCC.

Materials and methods

The files of 287 patients who had been treated for oral SCC between 1999 and 2008 were studied retrospectively. Hemoglobin levels between 1 and 5 days prior to surgical treatment were compared to Tumor (T)- and Nodal (N)- status, local recurrence, and lymph node metastases rate. The minimum follow-up period was 12 months.

Results

From a total of 287 patients with oral SCC, 205 (71.4%) were in the normal hemoglobin (Hb) group (female Hb≥12.0 g/dl; male Hb≥13.0 g/dl), 53 (18.5%) in the mild anemia (female Hb = 11.0-11.9 g/dl; male Hb = 11.0-12.9 g/dl), and 29 (10.1%) in the severe anemia group (female & male Hb<11.0 g/dl). Anemia was significant for the development of lymph node metastasis (p = 0.005) as well as for local recurrence (p = 0.001). No significant correlation was found to the initial T status (p = 0.183).

Conclusion

Our data suggests that an Hb of below 11 g/dl contributes to and is an indicator for a poor prognosis. Consequently, pre-treatment Hb corrections may significantly improve outcome, but further investigations, including blood transfusion/application of erythropoietin due to tumor anemia, independent of intraoperative blood-loss are necessary to ascertain their role in an improved survival.
Cardiovascular events in early RA are a result of inflammatory burden and traditional risk factors: a five year prospective study
Authors: Innala Lena , Möller Bozena , Ljung Lotta , Magnusson Staffan , Smedby Torgny , Södergren Anna , Öhman Marie-Louise , Rantapää-Dahlqvist Solbritt , Wållberg-Jonsson Solveig
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Co-morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular disease (CVD) are increased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Most published studies in this field are retrospective or cross sectional. We investigated the presence of traditional and disease related risk factors for CVD at the onset of RA and during the first five years following diagnosis. We also evaluated their potential for predicting a new cardiovascular event (CVE) during the five-year follow-up period and the modulatory effect of pharmacological treatment.

Methods

All patients from the four northern-most counties of Sweden with early RA are, since December 1995, consecutively recruited at diagnosis (T0) into a large survey on the progress of the disease. Information regarding cardiovascular co-morbidity and related predictors was collected from clinical records and supplemented with questionnaires. By April 2008, 700 patients had been included of whom 442 patients had reached the five-year follow-up (T5).

Results

Among the 442 patients who reached T5 during the follow-up period, treatment for hypertension increased from 24.5 to 37.4% (P < 0.001)), diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM) from 7.1 to 9.5% (P < 0.01) whilst smoking decreased from 29.8 to 22.4% (P < 0.001) and the BMI from 26.3 to 25.8 (P < 0.05), respectively. By T5, 48 patients had suffered a new CVE of which 12 were fatal. A total of 23 patients died during the follow-up period. Age at disease onset, male sex, a previous CVE, DM, treatment for hypertension, triglyceride level, cumulative disease activity (area under the curve (AUC) disease activity score (DAS28)), extra-articular disease, corticosteroid use, shorter duration of treatment with disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and use of COX-2 inhibitors increased the hazard rate for a new CVE. A raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) at inclusion and AUC DAS28 at six months increased the hazard rate of CVE independently whilst DMARD treatment was protective in multiple Cox extended models adjusted for sex and CV risk factors. The risk of a CVE due to inflammation was potentiated by traditional CV risk factors.

Conclusions

The occurrence of new CV events in very early RA was explained by traditional CV risk factors and was potentiated by high disease activity. Treatment with DMARDs decreased the risk. The results may have implications for cardio-protective strategies in RA.
The non-protein coding breast cancer susceptibility locus Mcs5a acts in a non-mammary cell-autonomous fashion through the immune system and modulates T-cell homeostasis and functions
Authors: Smits Bart MG , Sharma Deepak , Samuelson David J , Woditschka Stephan , Mau Bob , Haag Jill D , Gould Michael N
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Mechanisms underlying low-penetrance, common, non-protein coding variants in breast cancer risk loci are largely undefined. We showed previously that the non-protein coding mammary carcinoma susceptibility locus Mcs5a/MCS5A modulates breast cancer risk in rats and women. The Mcs5a allele from the Wistar-Kyoto (WKy) rat strain consists of two genetically interacting elements that have to be present on the same chromosome to confer mammary carcinoma resistance. We also found that the two interacting elements of the resistant allele are required for the downregulation of transcript levels of the Fbxo10 gene specifically in T-cells. Here we describe mechanisms through which Mcs5a may reduce mammary carcinoma susceptibility.

Methods

We performed mammary carcinoma multiplicity studies with three mammary carcinoma-inducing treatments, namely 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) and N-nitroso-N-methylurea (NMU) carcinogenesis, and mammary ductal infusion of retrovirus expressing the activated HER2/neu oncogene. We used mammary gland and bone marrow transplantation assays to assess the target tissue of Mcs5a activity. We used immunophenotyping assays on well-defined congenic rat lines carrying susceptible and resistant Mcs5a alleles to identify changes in T-cell homeostasis and function associated with resistance.

Results

We show that Mcs5a acts beyond the initial step of mammary epithelial cell transformation, during early cancer progression. We show that Mcs5a controls susceptibility in a non-mammary cell-autonomous manner through the immune system. The resistant Mcs5a allele was found to be associated with an overabundance of gd T-cell receptor (TCR)+ T-cells as well as a CD62L (L-selectin)-high population of all T-cell classes. In contrast to in mammary carcinoma, gdTCR+ T-cells are the predominant T-cell type in the mammary gland and were found to be overabundant in the mammary epithelium of Mcs5a resistant congenic rats. Most of them simultaneously expressed the CD4, CD8, and CD161α markers. In cultured T-cells of Mcs5a resistant congenic rats we found increased mitogen-induced proliferation and production of Th1 cytokines IFNg, IL-2, and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), but not Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-6, or Th17 cytokine IL-17 when compared with susceptible control rats.

Conclusions

These data support a hypothesis that Mcs5a displays a non-mammary cell-autonomous mechanism of action to modulate breast cancer risk through the immune system. The resistant Mcs5a allele is associated with alterations in T-cell homeostasis and functions, and overabundance of γδTCR+ T-cells in carcinogen-exposed mammary epithelium.
Statin pre-treatment is associated with lower platelet activity and favorable outcome in patients with acute non-cardio-embolic ischemic stroke
Authors: Tsai Nai-Wen , Lin Tsu-Kung , Chang Wen-Neng , Jan Chung-Ren , Huang Chi-Ren , Chen Shang-Der , Cheng Kuei-Yueh , Chiang Yi-Fang , Wang Hung-Chen , Yang Tzu-Ming , Lin Yu-Jun , Lin Wei-Che , Chang Hsueh-Wen , Lee Lian-Hui , Lu Cheng-Hsien
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Statins reportedly have anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic effects aside from cholesterol-lowering. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of pre-existing statin use on platelet activation markers and clinical outcome in acute ischemic stroke patients.

Methods

This prospective study evaluated 172 patients with acute ischemic stroke divided in two groups: patients with pre-existing statin (n = 43) and without pre-existing statin (66 cases with statins initiated post-stroke and 63 without statin treatment). Platelet activation markers (CD62P and CD63) were measured by flow cytometry at different time points after stroke and analyzed with clinical outcome.

Results

The CD62P and CD63 expressions on platelets were significantly lower in the patients with pre-existing statin use compared to the patients without pre-existing statin use on Day 1 post-stroke (p < 0.05). The CD62P expression was significantly lower in the patients with pre-existing statin use on 90 days after the acute stroke (p < 0.05). Patients with pre-existing statin use had lower incidences of early neurologic deterioration (END) than those without treatment (p < 0.05). Among several baseline clinical variables, admission NIHSS score, history of coronary artery disease, and pre-existing statin use were independent predictions of good clinical outcome at three months.

Conclusions

Pre-existing statin use is associated with decreased platelet activity as well as improved clinical outcome and reduced END in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Succinylcholine versus rocuronium for rapid sequence intubation in intensive care: a prospective, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Marsch Stephan C , Steiner Luzius , Bucher Evelyne , Pargger Hans , Schumann Martin , Aebi Timothy , Hunziker Patrick R , Siegemund Martin
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Succinylcholine and rocuronium are widely used to facilitate rapid sequence induction (RSI) intubation in intensive care. Concerns relate to the side effects of succinylcholine and to slower onset and inferior intubation conditions associated with rocuronium. So far, succinylcholine and rocuronium have not been compared in an adequately powered randomized trial in intensive care. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to compare the incidence of hypoxemia after rocuronium or succinylcholine in critically ill patients requiring an emergent RSI.

Methods

This was a prospective randomized controlled single-blind trial conducted from 2006 to 2010 at the University Hospital of Basel. Participants were 401 critically ill patients requiring emergent RSI. Patients were randomized to receive 1 mg/kg succinylcholine or 0.6 mg/kg rocuronium for neuromuscular blockade. The primary outcome was the incidence of oxygen desaturations defined as a decrease in oxygen saturation ≥ 5%, assessed by continuous pulse oxymetry, at any time between the start of the induction sequence and two minutes after the completion of the intubation. A severe oxygen desaturation was defined as a decrease in oxygen saturation ≥ 5% leading to a saturation value of ≤ 80%.

Results

There was no difference between succinylcholine and rocuronium regarding oxygen desaturations (succinylcholine 73/196; rocuronium 66/195; P = 0.67); severe oxygen desaturations (succinylcholine 20/196; rocuronium 20/195; P = 1.0); and extent of oxygen desaturations (succinylcholine -14 ± 12%; rocuronium -16 ± 13%; P = 0.77). The duration of the intubation sequence was shorter after succinycholine than after rocuronium (81 ± 38 sec versus 95 ± 48 sec; P = 0.002). Intubation conditions (succinylcholine 8.3 ± 0.8; rocuronium 8.2 ± 0.9; P = 0.7) and failed first intubation attempts (succinylcholine 32/200; rocuronium 36/201; P = 1.0) did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions

In critically ill patients undergoing emergent RSI, incidence and severity of oxygen desaturations, the quality of intubation conditions, and incidence of failed intubation attempts did not differ between succinylcholine and rocuronium.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00355368.
Integrated miRNA and mRNA expression profiling of mouse mammary tumor models identifies miRNA signatures associated with mammary tumor lineage
Authors: Zhu Min , Yi Ming , Kim Chang Hee , Deng Chuxia , Li Yi , Medina Daniel , Stephens Robert M , Green Jeffrey E
Published: August 2011

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding, endogenous RNAs involved in regulating gene expression and protein translation. miRNA expression profiling of human breast cancers has identified miRNAs related to the clinical diversity of the disease and potentially provides novel diagnostic and prognostic tools for breast cancer therapy. In order to further understand the associations between oncogenic drivers and miRNA expression in sub-types of breast cancer, we performed miRNA expression profiling on mammary tumors from eight well-characterized genetically engineered mouse (GEM) models of human breast cancer, including MMTV-H-Ras, -Her2/neu, -c-Myc, -PymT, -Wnt1 and C3(1)/SV40 T/t-antigen transgenic mice, BRCA1
fl/fl
;p53+/-;MMTV-cre knock-out mice and the p53
fl/fl
;MMTV-cre transplant model.

Results

miRNA expression patterns classified mouse mammary tumors according to luminal or basal tumor subtypes. Many miRNAs found in luminal tumors are expressed during normal mammary development. miR-135b, miR-505 and miR-155 are expressed in both basal human and mouse mammary tumors and many basal-associated miRNAs have not been previously characterized. miRNAs associated with the initiating oncogenic event driving tumorigenesis were also identified. miR-10b, -148a, -150, -199a and -486 were only expressed in normal mammary epithelium and not tumors, suggesting that they may have tumor suppressor activities. Integrated miRNA and mRNA gene expression analyses greatly improved the identification of miRNA targets from potential targets identified in silico.

Conclusions

This is the first large-scale miRNA gene expression study across a variety of relevant GEM models of human breast cancer demonstrating that miRNA expression is highly associated with mammary tumor lineage, differentiation and oncogenic pathways.
Strotz Meets Allais: Diminishing Impatience and the Certainty Effect: Comment
Authors: Saito Kota
Published: August 2011

Halevy (2008) states the equivalence between diminishing impatience (i.e., quasi–hyperbolic discounting) and the common ratio effect. The present paper shows that one way of the equivalence is false and shows the correct and general relationships: diminishing impatience is equivalent to the certainty effect and that strong diminishing impatience (i.e., hyperbolic discounting) is equivalent to the common ratio effect. JEL: D81
Model World: On the Evolution of Operations Research
Authors: Gass Saul I.
Published: August 2011

No abstarct available.
Book Reviews
Authors: Rand Graham K.
Published: August 2011

In Book Reviews, we review an extensive and diverse range of books. They cover theory and applications in operations research, statistics, management science, econometrics, mathematics, computers, and information systems. In addition, we include books in other fields that emphasize technical applications. The editor would be pleased to receive e-mails from those willing to be reviewers, with an indication of specific areas of interest. If you are aware of a specific book that you would like to review, or that you think should be reviewed, please contact the editor.
Cooking Up Color
Authors: stewart jude
Published: August 2011

The article compares recipes to make food with recipes to make color, specifically recipes to make natural dyes and paints before the era of synthetic industrial color. After reviewing conceptual definitions of recipes from food writers and scholars, the article discusses common ingredients for natural color-making, as well as “cooks” or creators of color, the preparations, and the desired results of these preparations. Ingredients include the cochineal beetle to make red, lapis lazuli for ultramarine blue, murex snails to make purple, as well as lesser-known ingredients and preparations. The article also reprises key historical texts in the history of making color. Unlike the present day, natural color-making was an often costly, difficult, uncertain exercise, much like food preparation on a nonindustrial scale. The author argues the results of recipes, whether food or color, may be more deeply appreciated according to that heightened difficulty.
Use of Models to Identify Cost-effective Interventions: Pertussis Vaccination for Pediatric Health Care Workers
Authors: Greer Amy L. , Fisman David N.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE:

Acellular pertussis vaccine is safe and effective in adults. An explicit recommendation for pertussis booster vaccination in pediatric health care workers is based on the importance of health care workers as a potential source of infection for patients. However, limited information is available on the economic attractiveness of this intervention. We sought to evaluate the health-economic attractiveness of a diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis booster vaccination program for health care workers in a pediatric intensive care setting.

METHODS:

We developed a Markov model to calculate the cost-effectiveness of vaccinating NICU health care workers in different proportions ranging from the current strategy of no pertussis booster vaccination program to a vaccination program that achieves between 25% and 95% vaccine coverage.

RESULTS:

Implementation of a vaccination program that achieves 25% coverage was projected to be cost-saving compared with no vaccine program. At all coverage levels the intervention reduced costs, increased life expectancy, and was cost-effective. Projections were most sensitive to the risk of a pertussis introduction via an infected health care worker. Once the monthly risk of an introduction exceeded ∼0.3%, implementation of an immunization program with at least 25% coverage provided both greater health and greater economic benefits than having no vaccine program.

CONCLUSIONS:

The implementation of a hospital-based and funded diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis vaccine program administered through an occupational health program is cost-effective or cost-saving in the context of pediatric health care facilities in which many of the patients are at risk of serious morbidity and mortality should they acquire pertussis while hospitalized.
Light-Activated, Sensor-Controlled Sprayer Provides Effective Postemergence Control of Broadleaf Weeds in Fallow
Authors: Riar Dilpreet S. , Ball Daniel A. , Yenish Joseph P. , Burke Ian C.
Published: August 2011

A study was conducted in summer fallow fields near Davenport, WA, and Pendleton, OR, in 2007 and 2008 to evaluate the POST weed control efficacy of herbicide treatments applied with a light-activated, sensor-controlled (LASC) sprayer compared to the broadcast application of glyphosate. The LASC application of glyphosate alone (at all rates) and in mixture with pyrasulfotole plus bromoxynil or 2,4-D had weed control (≥ 88%) and dry weight (≤ 6% of control) similar to the broadcast application of glyphosate across locations and years. Tumble pigweed and prickly lettuce control with bromoxynil, 2,4-D, or carfentrazone plus dicamba, was 12 to 85% less than glyphosate applied alone with LASC or broadcast sprayer. Overall, none of the tested alternate herbicides was promising enough to replace glyphosate under present conditions.
Significance of Atrazine as a Tank-Mix Partner with Tembotrione
Authors: Williams Martin M. , Boydston Rick A. , Peachey R. Ed , Robinson Darren
Published: August 2011

Manufacturers of several POST corn herbicides recommend tank-mixing their herbicides with atrazine to improve performance; however, future regulatory changes may place greater restrictions on atrazine use and limit its availability to growers. Our research objectives were to quantify the effects of tank-mixing atrazine with tembotrione compared to tembotrione alone on (1) weed control, (2) variability in weed control, and (3) sweet corn yield components and yield variability. Field studies were conducted for 2 yr each in Illinois, Oregon, Washington, and Ontario, Canada. Tembotrione at 31 g ha−1 was applied alone and with atrazine at 370 g ha−1 POST at the four- to five-collar stage of corn. The predominant weed species observed in the experiment were common to corn production, including large crabgrass, wild-proso millet, common lambsquarters, and velvetleaf. For nearly every weed species and species group, the addition of atrazine improved tembotrione performance by increasing mean levels of weed control 3 to 45% at 2 wk after treatment. Adding atrazine reduced variation (i.e., standard deviation) in control of the weed community by 45%. Sweet corn ear number and ear mass were 9 and 13% higher, respectively, and less variable when atrazine was applied with tembotrione, compared to tembotrione alone. Additional restrictions or the complete loss of atrazine for use in corn will necessitate major changes in sweet corn weed management systems.
Response ofMiscanthus × giganteusandMiscanthus sinensisto Postemergence Herbicides
Authors: Everman Wesley J. , Lindsey Alexander J. , Henry Gerald M. , Glaspie Calvin F. , Phillips Kristin , McKenney Cynthia
Published: August 2011

Studies were conducted under greenhouse conditions at Michigan State University and Texas Tech University to investigate the tolerance ofMiscanthus × giganteusandMiscanthus sinensisto POST herbicides.Miscanthus sinensisandM. × giganteuswere treated with 10 and 18 POST herbicide treatments, respectively. Plants were evaluated for injury as well as dry aboveground and belowground biomass production 28 days after treatment. Imazethapyr at 0.069 kg ai ha−1caused 5% injury toM. sinensis, which was greater than the nontreated check. Imazethapyr, imazamox at 0.044 kg ai ha−1, and rimsulfuron at 0.017 kg ai ha−1reduced aboveground biomass ofM. sinensiscompared with the nontreated check. Dicamba at 0.56 kg ai ha−1and halosulfuron at 0.035 kg ai ha−1resulted inM. sinensisaboveground biomass similar to the nontreated check. Injury exhibited byM. × giganteuswas greater than the nontreated check with glyphosate at 0.84 kg ae ha−1(54%), foramsulfuron at 0.037 kg ai ha−1(32%), nicosulfuron at 0.035 kg ai ha−1(28%), and imazamox at 0.044 kg ai ha−1(10%). These treatments also yielded the lowest aboveground biomass values. The results of this study demonstrate thatM. sinensisis more tolerant of the POST herbicides tested here thanM.×x. giganteus. Several herbicide options may be available for weed management inM. sinensisandM. × giganteusstands following additional field trials to validate initial findings.
Developing Palliative Care Competencies for the Education of Entry Level Baccalaureate Prepared Canadian Nurses
Authors: Jacono Brenda , Young Lynne , Baker Cynthia , Richardson Holly R L , Cable-Williams Beryl , Jewers Heather , Lavoie Mireille , Librach Larry , Bidgood Darcee , Mitchell Mitzi Grace
Published: August 2011

Educational preparation of health professionals for Palliative and End of Life Care (PEOLC) is inadequate, and nurses are no exception. In 2004, the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing struck a Task Force to develop PEOLC competencies to address this issue. The development of national PEOLC nursing competencies involved a multi-step, emergent, interactive, and iterative process. An overarching principle guiding this process was building national consensus about the essential PEOLC specific competencies for nurses among experts in this field while simultaneously generating, revising, and refining them. There have been three stages in this iterative, multi-step process: 1) Generating a preliminary set of competencies, 2) Building a national consensus among educators and experts in the field on PEOLC specific competencies for nurses, and 3) Refining the consensus based competencies for curriculum development. Ongoing follow up work for this project is focusing on the integration of these competencies into nursing curricula.
The Future of Gerontological Nursing
Authors: Nannini Angela
Published: August 2011

Spring 2010 marked the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; however, soon after this landmark legislation passed, legal and political challenges ensued to change key features of the law. In this environment of proposed changes to transform the U.S. health care system, the Institute of Medicine released its report titled
The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health
in October 2010. The groundbreaking consensus report calls for a transformation of nursing at practice, education, and leadership levels. This article briefly summarizes findings and key recommendations with an emphasis on areas most relevant to the future of gerontological nursing. In addition, various implementation actions promoted through the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Future of Nursing Campaign and the AARP Center to Champion Nursing are discussed to encourage gerontological nurses to participate in current and future debates.
Lubrication Mode and Selection of the Helicopter Transmission System Roller Bearing
Authors: Qiu Jun Peng , Yin Mei , Guo Ling Song
Published: August 2011

The bearings will directly affect the performance of helicopter transmission system whether they are in normal work or not. Lubrication is the essential element for the normal work of bearings. Under the condition of the bearing design and manufacture technique, material technique is becoming more and more advanced, and lubricant becomes “the fifth main part”, which has been got a wide-ranged agreement. One of the most critical factors to improve bearing life is lubricant. This paper analyzes lubrication type and mode, and the failure of helicopter transmission system roller bearing caused by improper lubrication. It further explains the importance of lubrication to the bearings. And how to select lubrication mode and lubricant to improve the bearing life is also summed up.