bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of an Oxaliplatin Sensitivity Predictor in a Preclinical Murine Model of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kim Mickey K. , Osada Takuya , Barry William T. , Yang Xiao Yi , Freedman Jennifer A. , Tsamis Katherine A. , Datto Michael , Clary Bryan M. , Clay Timothy , Morse Michael A. , Febbo Philip G. , Lyerly H. Kim , Hsu David S.
Published: February 2012

Despite advances in contemporary chemotherapeutic strategies, long-term survival still remains elusive for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. A better understanding of the molecular markers of drug sensitivity to match therapy with patient is needed to improve clinical outcomes. In this study, we used in vitro drug sensitivity data from the NCI-60 cell lines together with their Affymetrix microarray data to develop a gene expression signature to predict sensitivity to oxaliplatin. To validate our oxaliplatin sensitivity signature, patient-derived colorectal cancer explants (PDCCE) were developed in nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient (NOD/SCID) mice from resected human colorectal tumors. Analysis of gene expression profiles found similarities between the PDCCEs and their parental human tumors, suggesting their utility to study drug sensitivity in vivo. The oxaliplatin sensitivity signature was then validated in vivo with response data from 14 PDCCEs treated with oxaliplatin and was found to have an accuracy of 92.9% (sensitivity = 87.5%; specificity = 100%). Our findings suggest that PDCCEs can be a novel source to study drug sensitivity in colorectal cancer. Furthermore, genomic-based analysis has the potential to be incorporated into future strategies to optimize individual therapy for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(7); 1500–9. ©2012 AACR.
The TP53 16-bp Duplication Polymorphism Is Enriched in Endometriosis Patients
Authors: Gallegos-Arreola M.P. , Valencia-Rodríguez L.E. , Puebla-Pérez A.M. , Figuera L.E. , Zúñiga-González G.M.
Published: February 2012

Background/Aim: The TP53 tumor suppressor gene encodes the nuclear phosphoprotein p53, which plays an important role in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, DNA repair and angiogenesis. The TP53 gene contains common genetic polymorphisms that influence gene activity. Clinical implications of TP53 polymorphisms have been reported for several diseases, including a variety of solid tumors and endometriosis. We evaluated the association of a TP53 duplication polymorphism with endometriosis. Methods: We evaluated the role of the TP53 16-bp duplication polymorphism by comparing the genotypes of 204 healthy women (controls with surgically excluded endometriosis) to the genotypes of 151 women with endometriosis in the Mexican population. Results: The observed genotype frequencies for controls and endometriosis patients were 0.5 and 5% for 16 bp+/+, 11 and 21% for 16 bp+/–, and 88.5 and 77% for 16 bp–/–, respectively. The odds ratio (OR) was 9.8 (95% CI 1.2–446.8; p = 0.01). The association was more evident when we compared the distribution of genotype 16 bp+/+ to genotype 16 bp+/–. In patients with moderate/severe endometriosis, the OR was 4.0 (95% CI 1.6–9.8; p = 0.003). Conclusion: Our data suggest that the 16-bp duplication polymorphism in TP53 contributes significantly to endometriosis susceptibility in the Mexican population.
Type-Specific Human Papillomavirus DNA Detected in Atypical Glandular Cell Pap Tests
Authors: Mulhem Elie , Amin Mitual , Copeland Jonathan , Sharma John , Hunter Sue
Published: February 2012

Objectives: To evaluate the presence of type-specific human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA in atypical glandular cells (AGCs) from cervical liquid-based cytology and to report the relationship between HPV types and cervical histological abnormalities. Study Design: We used a nested multiplex polymerase chain reaction assay to test AGC Papanicolaou (Pap) tests for the presence of 14 high-risk (HR) HPV types. Results: HR HPV types were detected in 33 of 161 AGC Pap tests (20.3%). Types 16 and/or 18 were detected in 13 samples (8%). Eight other HPV types were detected in 1–4 samples each. HPV-associated disease was diagnosed in 8 AGC cases (8%) with available histology results. The sensitivity and specificity of the HR HPV test were 87.5 and 90%, respectively, and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 99%. For a test that can isolate HPV types 16 and 18, the sensitivity and specificity were 62.5 and 100%, respectively, the positive predictive value (PPV) was 100% and the NPV was 97%. Conclusion: HPV 16 and 18 were the most common types detected in AGC Paps. We found high specificity, PPV and NPV with a test that can isolate these 2 HPV types. These results indicate a possible role for type-specific HPV testing in the management of AGC Pap tests.
Cyclin D1 Induction Preceding Neuronal Death via the Excitotoxic NMDA Pathway Involves Selective Stimulation of Extrasynaptic NMDA Receptors and JNK Pathway
Authors: Efthimiadi L. , Farso M. , Quirion R. , Krantic S.
Published: February 2012

The N-methyl-D-aspartate subtype of ionotropic glutamate receptors (NMDARs) signals both prosurvival and death-inducing (excitotoxic) neuronal responses via synaptically (synaptic NMDAR) and extrasynaptically (extrasynaptic NMDAR) located receptor pools, respectively. Both receptor pools share similar, though not identical, postreceptor signaling molecules. The activation of the extrasynaptic NMDAR pathway is predominant. Therefore, in order to inhibit the extrasynaptic death pathway while sparing synaptic responses, it is critical to identify selective postreceptor effectors of extrasynaptic NMDARs. The present study addressed these issues by using primary cultures of rat hippocampal neurons and a pharmacological protocol of selective NMDAR stimulation for Western blot and immunocytochemistry analyses. We found that the activation of extrasynaptic NMDARs, either alone or together with synaptic NMDARs, triggers cyclin-D1-associated re-entry into the cell cycle, which does not proceed beyond the S-phase. This aberrant cell cycle re-entry is particularly associated with neuronal death triggered specifically via extrasynaptic NMDAR-induced c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK). In addition, NMDA-elicited neuronal death was significantly inhibited by pharmacological blockade of JNK-mediated cyclin D1 expression or by silencing cyclin D1 RNA. Taken together, these data suggest a causal relationship between cyclin D1 induction and extrasynaptic NMDAR-triggered neuronal death along the excitotoxic NMDA pathway. Therefore, cyclin D1 may be a putative target for the development of neuroprotective strategies sparing physiological synaptic NMDAR signaling.
Sorafenib Dose Escalation in the Treatment of Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kim Jeong Eun , Ryoo Baek-Yeol , Ryu Min-Hee , Chang Heung-Moon , Suh Dong Jin , Lee Han Chu , Lim Young-Suk , Kim Kang Mo , Kang Yoon-Koo
Published: February 2012

Objective: Although sorafenib has shown survival benefits in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), many patients require discontinuation or dose reduction due to adverse events (AEs). We applied a dose escalation scheme to increase patient compliance and avoid AEs. Methods: Of 267 HCC patients treated with first-line sorafenib, 25 at increased risk of AEs, including those with advanced liver cirrhosis, a history of liver transplantation, or cytopenia, received the dose escalation scheme. They started on a reduced dose of sorafenib which increased to the standard dosage according to tolerance in each patient. We analyzed the efficacy and safety of the dose escalation scheme. Results: Patients with risk factors showed a lower disease control rate, shorter survival, and more frequently grade 3/4 AEs. Among patients presenting risk factors, the dose scheme did not affect the efficacy of sorafenib or survival, but reduced the incidence of grade 3/4 AEs. Rates of sorafenib discontinuation and dose reduction related to AEs were also lower in the dose escalation group. Dose escalation to the standard dose of sorafenib was achieved in 16 of the 25 patients in the dose escalation group (64.0%). After 2 weeks, the dose intensity of sorafenib did not differ between the two dose schemes. Conclusions: The sorafenib dose escalation scheme may increase patient compliance and tolerance to prolonged treatment, thus enhancing the efficacy of sorafenib in patients at high risk of AEs or with poor tolerance. Further prospective analyses are needed to determine the usefulness of the dose escalation scheme.
Functional Overlap Between Chondroitin and Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans During VEGF-Induced Sprouting Angiogenesis
Authors: Jan Sébastien Le , Hayashi Makoto , Kasza Zsolt , Eriksson Inger , Bishop Joseph R. , Weibrecht Irene , Heldin Johan , Holmborn Katarina , Jakobsson Lars , Söderberg Ola , Spillmann Dorothe , Esko Jeffrey D. , Claesson-Welsh Lena , Kjellén Lena , Kreuger Johan
Published: February 2012

Objective—

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans regulate key steps of blood vessel formation. The present study was undertaken to investigate if there is a functional overlap between heparan sulfate proteoglycans and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans during sprouting angiogenesis.

Methods and Results—

Using cultures of genetically engineered mouse embryonic stem cells, we show that angiogenic sprouting occurs also in the absence of heparan sulfate biosynthesis. Cells unable to produce heparan sulfate instead increase their production of chondroitin sulfate that binds key angiogenic growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor A, transforming growth factor β, and platelet-derived growth factor B. Lack of heparan sulfate proteoglycan production however leads to increased pericyte numbers and reduced adhesion of pericytes to nascent sprouts, likely due to dysregulation of transforming growth factor β and platelet-derived growth factor B signal transduction.

Conclusion—

The present study provides direct evidence for a previously undefined functional overlap between chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans and heparan sulfate proteoglycans during sprouting angiogenesis. Our findings provide information relevant for potential future drug design efforts that involve targeting of proteoglycans in the vasculature.
Dietary Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Susceptibility to Ventricular Fibrillation
Authors: Billman George E. , Carnes Cynthia A. , Adamson Philip B. , Vanoli Emilio , Schwartz Peter J.
Published: February 2012

Background—

Recent clinical studies that evaluated the effects of supplemental omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) on sudden cardiac death have yielded conflicting results. Our aim was to clarify this issue using an established and clinical relevant canine model of sudden cardiac death.

Methods and Results—

Susceptibility to ventricular fibrillation (VF) was evaluated using a 2-minute left circumflex artery occlusion during the last minute of an exercise test in 76 dogs (from 2 independent studies) with healed myocardial infarctions (MI); 44 developed VF (susceptible, VF+), whereas 32 did not (resistant, VF–). These dogs were then randomly assigned to either placebo (1 g/d, corn oil; 15 VF+, 11 VF–) or n-3 PUFA (1–4 g/d, docosahexaenoic acid+eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl esters, 29 VF+, 21 VF–) groups. Seven sham (no-MI) dogs were also treated with n-3 PUFA (4 g/d). After treatment (3 months), the exercise+ischemia test was repeated. Dietary n-3 PUFAs produced significant (
P
<0.01) increases in red blood cell and left ventricular n-3 PUFA levels. Nine post-MI (5 placebo versus 4 n-3 PUFA) and 2 sham dogs died suddenly during the 3-month treatment period. The n-3 PUFA treatment failed to prevent arrhythmias in VF+ dogs (decreased in 27% placebo versus 24% n-3 PUFA,
P
=0.5646) but induced VT/VF in VF– animals (n-3 PUFA 33% versus placebo 0%,
P
=0.0442).

Conclusions—

Despite large increases in cardiac tissue n-3 PUFA content, dietary n-3 PUFAs did not prevent ischemiainduced VF and actually increased arrhythmia susceptibility in both noninfarcted and low-risk post-MI dogs.
In Vivo Assessment of Ergonovine-Induced Coronary Artery Spasm by 64-Slice Multislice Computed Tomography
Authors: Ito Tsuyoshi , Terashima Mitsuyasu , Kaneda Hideaki , Nasu Kenya , Ehara Mariko , Kinoshita Yoshihisa , Ito Tatsuya , Kimura Masashi , Tanaka Nobuyoshi , Habara Maoto , Tsuchikane Etsuo , Suzuki Takahiko
Published: February 2012

Background—

The potential of multislice CT (MSCT) to predict coronary spasm has not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the morphological features observed on MSCT at the site of ergonovine-induced epicardial spasm could be used as diagnostic criteria for coronary spasm.

Methods and Results—

A total of 296 plaques in 199 patients with clinically suspected coronary spastic angina without coronary stenosis (<75%) who underwent invasive angiography with intravenous ergonovine provocative testing were analyzed by MSCT. Calcification, CT attenuation, and patterns of vascular remodeling were evaluated in each plaque by MSCT. Plaques were divided into spasm group or nonspasm group based on the results of the ergonovine provocative test. On a per-plaque basis, noncalcified plaques were more frequently observed in the spasm group (96% versus 20%,
P
<0.01). Intermediate attenuation plaques (CT density ≥53.8 Hounsfield units identified by receiver operating characteristic analysis) were more common in the spasm group (93% versus 28%,
P
<0.01), as was negative remodeling (67% versus 11%,
P
<0.01). Multivariable analysis revealed noncalcified (odds ratio [OR], 48.7; 95% CI, 8.81–269;
P
<0.01), intermediate attenuation (OR, 19.3; 95% CI, 4.96–75.4;
P
<0.01); negative remodeling (OR, 8.83; 95% CI, 2.87–27.2;
P
<0.01); and male sex (OR, 4.55; 95% CI, 1.24–16.6;
P
=0.02) as predictors of the plaque associated with coronary spasm.

Conclusions—

MSCT can detect differences in individual plaque composition and morphology among atherosclerotic plaques without significant luminal narrowing in areas of inducible vasospasm compared to areas without vasospasm.
The Role of Bolus Delay and Dispersion in Predictor Models for Stroke
Authors: Willats Lisa , Connelly Alan , Christensen Soren , Donnan Geoffrey A. , Davis Stephen M. , Calamante Fernando
Published: February 2012

Background and Purpose—

In combination with diffusion-weighted imaging, perfusion-weighted imaging parameters are hypothesized to detect tissue at risk of infarction in patients with acute stroke. Recent studies have suggested that in addition to perfusion deficits, vascular flow parameters indicating bolus delay and/or dispersion may also contain important predictive information. This work investigates the infarct risk associated with delay/dispersion using multiparametric predictor models.

Methods—

Predictor models were developed using specific combinations of perfusion parameters calculated using global arterial input function deconvolution (where perfusion is biased by dispersion), local arterial input function deconvolution (where perfusion has minimal dispersion bias), and parameters approximating bolus delay/dispersion. We also compare predictor models formed using summary parameters (which primarily reflect delay/dispersion). The models were trained on 15 patients with acute stroke imaged at 3 to 6 hours.

Results—

The global arterial input function models performed significantly better than their local arterial input function counterparts. Furthermore, in a paired comparison, the models including the delay/dispersion parameter performed significantly better than those without. There was no significant difference between the best deconvolution model and the best summary parameter model.

Conclusions—

Delay and dispersion information is important to achieve accurate infarct prediction in the acute time window.
The Measures of Effective Teaching Project: An Experiment to Build Evidence and Trust
Authors: Cantrell Steven M.
Published: February 2012

The Measures of Effective Teaching project has collected performance data using multiple indicators from over three thousand teachers across six urban districts. In the second year of the study, classes of students were randomly assigned to teachers in order to assess the impact of assignment bias on performance judgments. This article discusses the project rationale, design, preliminary findings, justification for the experiment, and details of the random assignment process. Results from the randomized trial will be released in a subsequent report.
Considerable Model–Data Mismatch in Temperature over China during the Mid-Holocene: Results of PMIP Simulations
Authors: Jiang Dabang , Lang Xianmei , Tian Zhiping , Wang Tao
Published: February 2012

Using the experiments undertaken by 36 climate models participating in the Paleoclimate Modeling Intercomparison Project (PMIP), this study examines annual and seasonal surface temperatures over China during the mid-Holocene. Compared to the present or preindustrial climate, 35 out of the 36 PMIP models reproduced colder-than-baseline annual temperature, with an average cooling of 0.4 K, during that period. Seasonal temperature change followed closely the change in incoming solar radiation at the top of the atmosphere over China during the mid-Holocene. Temperature was reduced (elevated) in boreal winter and spring (summer) in all of the PMIP models, with an average of 1.4 K (1.0 K) at the national scale. Colder (warmer)-than-baseline temperatures were derived from 14 of the 16 atmosphere-only (18 of the 20 coupled) models during the mid-Holocene boreal autumn. Interactive ocean was found to lead to a warming effect on annual (0.3 K), boreal winter (0.5 K), and boreal autumn (0.7 K) temperatures, with reference to the atmosphere-only models. Interactive vegetation had little impact in terms of six pairs of coupled models with and without vegetation effects. The above results are in stark contrast to warmer-than-present annual and winter climate conditions as derived from multiproxy data for the mid-Holocene. Coupled models generally perform better than atmosphere-only models.
Variability of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation in CCSM4
Authors: Danabasoglu Gokhan , Yeager Steve G. , Kwon Young-Oh , Tribbia Joseph J. , Phillips Adam S. , Hurrell James W.
Published: February 2012

Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) variability is documented in the Community Climate System Model, version 4 (CCSM4) preindustrial control simulation that uses nominal 1° horizontal resolution in all its components. AMOC shows a broad spectrum of low-frequency variability covering the 50–200-yr range, contrasting sharply with the multidecadal variability seen in the T85 × 1 resolution CCSM3 present-day control simulation. Furthermore, the amplitude of variability is much reduced in CCSM4 compared to that of CCSM3. Similarities as well as differences in AMOC variability mechanisms between CCSM3 and CCSM4 are discussed. As in CCSM3, the CCSM4 AMOC variability is primarily driven by the positive density anomalies at the Labrador Sea (LS) deep-water formation site, peaking 2 yr prior to an AMOC maximum. All processes, including parameterized mesoscale and submesoscale eddies, play a role in the creation of salinity anomalies that dominate these density anomalies. High Nordic Sea densities do not necessarily lead to increased overflow transports because the overflow physics is governed by source and interior region density differences. Increased overflow transports do not lead to a higher AMOC either but instead appear to be a precursor to lower AMOC transports through enhanced stratification in LS. This has important implications for decadal prediction studies. The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is significantly correlated with the positive boundary layer depth and density anomalies prior to an AMOC maximum. This suggests a role for NAO through setting the surface flux anomalies in LS and affecting the subpolar gyre circulation strength.
Evaluating Primary Marine Aerosol Production and Atmospheric Roll Structures in Hawaii’s Natural Oceanic Wind Tunnel*
Authors: Kapustin Vladimir N. , Clarke Antony D. , Howell Steven G. , McNaughton Cameron S. , Brekhovskikh Vera L. , Zhou Jingchuan
Published: February 2012

Topography-induced steady-state accelerated wind flow in the Alenuihaha Channel between the islands of Hawaii and Maui provides about 100 km of fetch with winds that can nearly double over trade wind speed. Here ship- and aircraft-based observations of meteorological parameters and aerosols in Hawaii’s orographic natural “wind tunnel” are used for the study of sea salt aerosol (SSA) production, evolution, and related optical effects under clean oceanic conditions. There are certain advantages of channel measurements, such as a broad and uniform upstream area usually filled with background aerosol, stationary flow, and known fetch, but also some difficulties, like vigorous entrainment and persistent presence of organized structures (rolls). It is found that marine boundary layer (MBL) rolls are a common occurrence near the Hawaiian Islands even when cloud streets are not visible in satellite imagery. The presence of rolls tends to enhance the variability of ambient aerosol concentration and probably affects production of primary sea salt aerosol and entrainment from above. The possibility of channel measurements of the size-dependent flux of SSA is explored using a concentration buildup method as surface wind speeds range from 7 to 11 m s−1. Production of SSA particles with dry diameter as small as 0.18 μm was observed. General agreement with reported SSA fluxes was found.
Climate Change, Justice, and Adaptation among African American Communities in the Chesapeake Bay Region
Authors: Paolisso Michael , Douglas Ellen , Enrici Ashley , Kirshen Paul , Watson Chris , Ruth Matthias
Published: February 2012

In this paper, the authors present results from a study of climate change and community adaptation, focusing on two African American communities on the Eastern Shore of the Chesapeake Bay. These two communities are representative of small, resource-poor communities that are particularly prone to increased flooding, storms, and erosion accompanying climate change. The authors frame their research within a focus on distributive and procedural justice, including considerations of the role of adaptation capacity and vulnerability. They use methods from cognitive–environmental anthropology and psychometrics to ground a participatory and multidisciplinary approach that emphasizes community participation and the sharing of scientific and program information on climate change and adaptation. Their results suggest that community members have a holistic understanding of climate change, recognize a wide range of potential community and individual impacts, face specific vulnerabilities, and are organized through their churches to engage in efforts to reduce the impacts of increased flooding and storms on their communities.
Modeling the Influence of School Leaders on Student Achievement
Authors: ten Bruggencate Gerdy , Luyten Hans , Scheerens Jaap , Sleegers Peter
Published: February 2012

Purpose: The aim of this study was to examine the means by which principals achieve an impact on student achievement. Research Design: Through the application of structural equation modeling, a mediated-effects model for school leadership was tested, using data from 97 secondary schools in the Netherlands. Findings: The results showed a small positive effect of school leadership on the mean promotion rate in schools, mediated by a development-oriented school organization and favorable classroom practices. The promotion rate may be considered as a measure of efficiency. No indications of direct positive effects of school leader activities on student achievement were found. This might be the result of the relatively small differences in overall student achievement and school leader behavior between the schools studied. Conclusions: The results underline the important role school leaders play in school effectiveness and offer valuable insight in how school leaders actually can make a difference. School leaders were found to have a strong influence on development orientation in schools, which shows similarities with the idea of the “learning organization.” This study points to the importance of school context. The results show that contextual variables have considerable effects on several variables in the model.
Cost Considerations in the Treatment of Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Moore Eric J. , Hinni Michael L. , Olsen Kerry D. , Price Daniel L. , Laborde Rebecca R. , Inman Jared C.
Published: February 2012

Objectives

To determine the cost of treatment of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OP SCCA) with transoral surgery with concomitant neck dissection (TOS), TOS with adjuvant radiation therapy (TOS + RT), TOS with adjuvant chemoradiation therapy (TOS + CRT), and primary chemoradiation therapy (CRT).

Study Design

Case series.

Setting

Two tertiary care teaching hospitals.

Subjects and Methods

Using the databases of 2 teaching hospitals, patients were identified who had OP SCCA treated with TOS, TOS + RT, TOS + CRT, and primary CRT in 2009 to 2010. Costs were analyzed from an institutional perspective looking at reimbursement. Patients with government payers and patients with private payers in each group were identified, and net revenue data obtained for the 3‐month period from diagnosis were calculated and averaged for each group. Cost was defined as the reimbursement for all charges surrounding the 3‐month episode of treatment. All revenue associated with inpatient and outpatient care, including pharmacy charges, was included.

Results

The mean cost of TOS (private payers/government payers) was $37,435/$15,664 (range, $22,486‐$48,746/$13,325‐$16,885). The mean cost of TOS + RT (private payers/government payers) was $74,484/$34,343 (range, $72,400‐$84,825/$31,565‐$40,810). The mean cost of TOS + CRT (private payers/government payers) was $191,780/$53,245 (range, $145,450‐$217,220/$49,400‐$58,325). The mean cost of CRT (private payers/government payers) was $198,285/$57,429 (range, $168,216‐$298,945/$52,900‐$59,545).

Conclusion

An algorithm of transoral surgical treatment of OP SCCA with adjuvant treatment as indicated by pathology is more cost conscious than an algorithm of treatment of all OP SCCA with CRT.
Control of atmospheric particles on diffuse radiation and terrestrial plant productivity
Authors: Kanniah Kasturi Devi , Beringer Jason , North Peter , Hutley Lindsay
Published: February 2012

Terrestrial plant productivity tends to increase under increasing but non-saturating photosynthetically active solar radiation when water, temperature and nutrients are not limiting. However, studies have shown that photosynthesis can also be higher under enhanced diffuse light despite a decrease in total irradiance. Clouds and atmospheric aerosols are two important variables that determine the total and proportion of diffuse light reaching the surface and thereby the rate of photosynthesis and carbon accumulation in plants. In addition to these factors, the response of plants to diffuse radiation is also dependant on plant characteristics such as functional types, leaf physiology, leaf area, leaf inclination, canopy structure and shape (i.e. clumping). Local environmental conditions (i.e. temperature, soil moisture, vapour pressure deficit, etc.) then modulate these plant responses. Changes in solar radiation as a consequence of clouds and aerosols thus can modify the carbon balance of terrestrial ecosystems. Therefore, understanding the role of solar radiation in terrestrial carbon processes has become one of the goals in terrestrial carbon cycle studies. It can help to identify the control and mechanisms of carbon processes and determines the geographical and temporal distribution of the major pools and fluxes in the global carbon cycle. Here we review the role of clouds and aerosols in partitioning solar radiation and their interactions with carbon processes of terrestrial plants. We also focus our review on vegetation characteristics that control the impact of radiation partitioning on vegetation carbon processes and the role of modelling approach to study this impact. We identify gaps in this field of research and further propose recommendations to bridge the gap.
Reputation for Resolve, Interests, and Conflict
Authors: Clare Joe , Danilovic Vesna
Published: February 2012

Schelling’s work laid the foundation for a reputational theory of conflict behavior, claiming that a state’s reputation for resolve, as established through its past behavior, should provide it with bargaining leverage in future conflicts. This argument is scrutinized both theoretically and empirically in this study and also juxtaposed to an alternative framework that modifies the impact of “face-saving” stakes with those of a more inherent nature, such as the interests in a dispute. We advance an argument about the interplay between a state’s reputation from past behavior and its current interests in order to predict its crisis behavior. Our empirical expectations are subsequently tested in a quantitative analysis of deterrence crises for the period 1895–1985. The findings indicate that, while reputation matters, its impact is indirect at best and contingent on a state’s interests. Given the strong empirical support, we expect the interaction between reputation and interests as specified in our analysis to further contribute to a better understanding of conflict behavior.
Mass political polarization and attitudes towards education as part of the welfare state in Norway, Sweden and Finland
Authors: Fladmoe Audun
Published: February 2012

The education systems of the Nordic countries have long been regarded as integral parts of the welfare state. The argument here is that this welfare dimension is ideologically controversial at the elite level, and that recent trends in international academic assessments may have intensified a conflict between the academic and welfare dimensions in education. Two central aspects of the welfare dimension are explored through survey evidence from Norway, Sweden and Finland: (1) the ability of schools to integrate all children, independent of social background, and (2) the extent to which schools should focus on teaching social skills as opposed to academic skills. The results generally support the argument. Mass political polarization is evident in all three countries. Sympathizers of left-wing parties express higher expectations concerning the welfare dimension in education, and are more inclined to support a focus on social skills in schools.
Everyday human (in)security: Rescaling for the Southern city
Authors: Lemanski Charlotte
Published: February 2012

While human security approaches emphasize top-down security concerns and strategies, urban dwellers in the global South experience (in)security in much more immediate and tangible forms, grounded, for example, in citizens’ perceptions and fears related to the security of their lifestyles and cultures, as well as their physical, financial and tenure security. Thus, while human security research and policy focuses on security concerns that occur at the global scale, are linked to spectacular events, and result in security strategies that concentrate on collective human needs and state-led responses, citizens’ security experiences take place primarily at the local scale, in terms of everyday practices and individual subjectivities, resulting in citizen-led mitigation strategies. The ‘gap’ between the security agenda’s global scale and urban citizens’ local scale is the primary focus of this article, which uses empirical examples from the global South to highlight the ways in which urban citizens from diverse socioeconomic groups demonstrate scales of human (in)security that are under-addressed by the conceptual or policy framework. The article concludes with a call to rescale the human security agenda within the context of the Southern city – to consider the local alongside the global.
Surveying the landscape: The first 15 years of Accounting History as an international journal
Authors: Bisman Jayne Elizabeth
Published: February 2012

Accounting History celebrated a milestone at the end of 2010 – its first 15 years as an international refereed journal. This paper examines and provides commentary on the articles that have appeared in the journal from 1996 to 2010 using a series of thematic landscapes depicting dominant research trends and trajectories. Addressed are issues connected with the emergence of new themes, methods and topics, and the relative decline of other areas of historical accounting research. The investigation of these landscapes also provided the opportunity to explore and advance ideas concerning some unanswered calls and prospects in mapping the future content and profile of Accounting History.
Graph standardization and management accounting at AT&T during the 1920s
Authors: Chandar Nandini , Collier Deirdre , Miranti Paul
Published: February 2012

Drawing principally on archival resources, this study examines the standardization of graphical representations of managerial accounting information at the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T) during the 1920s. This innovation in management practice promoted operational efficiency by reducing the uncertainty associated with internal informational asymmetries that frequently arise in enterprises of great scale, scope and complexity. This change also invigorated management accounting and reduced risk perceptions by providing clearer delineation of important trends and relationships in a dynamic business environment. The innovative practices extended the vision of top management and, thus, strengthened their ability to coordinate and control the enterprise’s business activities. This new form of organizational learning was also adaptive, drawing on well established approaches followed in the firm’s extensive range of scientific and engineering endeavors. It shaped corporate culture in important ways by establishing norms for the accumulation, analysis and application of firm-specific economic information.
Moth-inspired plume tracing via multiple autonomous vehicles under formation control
Authors: Kang Xiaodong , Li Wei
Published: February 2012

The moth-inspired plume-tracing strategies on a single REMUS underwater vehicle successfully tracked a Rhodamine dye plume over 100 m and declared its source location in near-shore ocean environments that are characterized by turbulence, tides, and waves. This paper expands moth-inspired plume tracing via a single vehicle to multiple vehicles. The new strategy includes a mechanism determining a leader vehicle to perform moth-inspired plume-tracing maneuvers and a formation algorithm controlling non-leaders to follow the leader during plume-tracing missions. The Monte Carlo studies evaluate the strategy in a virtual environment where a simulated plume with significant filament intermittency and meander is developed. Considering our application, our simulation studies address an autonomous underwater vehicle’s kinematics and dynamics. The results demonstrate plume-tracing performance achieved by multiple vehicles, which automatically switch their roles superior to the single vehicle.
Angiolipoma of the Breast in a Male
Authors: Noel Jean-Christophe , Van Geertruyden Jean , Engohan-Aloghe Corinne
Published: February 2012

Objective: Angiolipoma is an unusual variant of lipoma involving subcutaneous tissues on trunk and extremities. This tumor is rarely described in the breast and particularly in breast male.

Case report: We report here the case of angiolipoma of the breast in a 55-year-old man complained of tenderness in the left breast. Ultrasonography showed a homogenously, well circumscribed, hyperechoic mass in the internal quadran of breast. The surgically resected tumor showed mature fat cells separated by proliferating branched vessels and intravascular hyaline thrombi.

Conclusion: The existence of angiolipoma of the breast in the male must not to be forgotten because this tumor may be confused clinically, radiologically and pathologically with a malignant tumor.
Study on the microstructure and properties of graphite-like carbon films deposited by unbalanced magnetron sputtering
Authors: Wang Yongjun , Li Hongxuan , Ji Li , Zhao Fei , Li Jian , Liu Xiaohong , Wu Yanxia , Lv Yanhong , Fu Yingying , Zhou Huidi , Chen Jianmin
Published: February 2012

A series of graphite-like amorphous carbon films were deposited by unbalanced magnetron sputtering system with different sputtering currents. The microstructure, morphology, contact angle, and tribological properties of the resultant carbon films were subsequently investigated by means of different characterization techniques. Raman analysis shows that the resultant amorphous carbon films are dominated by sp2 sites, and the intensity ratio of the D and G peaks increases gradually from ∼4.1 to ∼5.4 with decrease in the sputtering current from 16 to 4 A, which is one order of magnitude larger than that of diamond-like carbon films with high sp3 content, indicating a more graphite-like structure. The surface of the resulting carbon films is composed of granular structure with different diameters and heights, and the root mean square roughness of the studied films monotonically increases from 3.5 nm at a sputtering current of 4 A to 8.2 nm at 16 A. The contact angle of graphite-like carbon films with water changes from 43.4° to 89.5° with decrease in the sputtering current. Besides, these graphite-like carbon films demonstrate superior tribological properties with high load-bearing capacity and low friction coefficient in humid atmosphere. The superior tribological behaviors of this graphite-like carbon film are promising for a wide range of applications such as gears, cutting tools, automobile parts, etc.
Composing Our Lives—As Women and As Leaders
Authors: Hertneky Robbie P.
Published: February 2012

The Problem.

Career paths have traditionally been seen as linear progressions, discrete steps along a well-traveled avenue, and leadership development articulated as a list of winning skills and behaviors. Alternate models are needed, in particular those relevant to the career and leadership development of women.

The Solution.

This article looks at women’s career paths and development as leaders through the lens of Bateson’s (1989) concept of composing a life. Drawing on the findings of research on the leadership self-identity of women college presidents, a new perspective of composing a career and a leadership identity is offered.

The Stakeholders.

With implications for career planning and leadership education, this research may be useful for human resource development (HRD) professionals, leadership development and career consultants, and educators—faculty, student advisors, and administrators. It may also be informative, supportive, and inspiring to women in higher education, wherever they stand in their careers.
Mentoring Experiences of High-Achieving Women
Authors: Tolar Mary Hale
Published: February 2012

The Problem.

Organizations in all sectors invest resources in mentoring programs to attract, develop, and retain employees. Colleges and universities do so to retain students, staff, and faculty, often with the explicit aspiration of achieving a diverse, quality learning, and working environment. Mentoring is expected to be a positive influence in one’s development. Yet high-achieving women in this qualitative study describe the presence of mentors as both a help and a hindrance and the absence of mentors as both benefit and deficit.

The Solution.

Reflections shared by women in this collective case study contribute to the discussion of the benefits and challenges of mentoring relationships. Findings suggest modifications and alternatives to traditional, formal mentoring programs will benefit a broader range of high-achieving women.

The Stakeholders.

This study’s findings concern practitioners and scholars in human resource development, higher education administration, and leadership development, along with the women mentoring programs intend to serve.
Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine Physicians Lack Accurate Knowledge of Current CDC HIV Testing Recommendations and Infrequently Offer HIV Testing
Authors: Mohajer Mayar Al , Lyons Michael , King Eileen , Pratt Jesse , Fichtenbaum Carl J.
Published: February 2012

Objectives: To evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of residents and attendings in emergency medicine (EM) and internal medicine (IM) about HIV. Methods: An electronic anonymous 41-question survey of IM and EM physicians at the University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center. Results: The survey was completed by 232 physicians (71.6%). EM residents were more likely to routinely offer HIV testing compared to IM residents (60.7% vs. 27.8%, P = 0.0009). Overall, there was no difference in offering HIV testing by sex (32% vs. 35.6%) or by residents versus attendings (33.8% vs. 33.3%). Only 70 physicians (30.9%) were aware of current CDC recommendations of HIV screening with attendings more knowledgeable than residents (41.7% vs. 26%, P = 0.017). Conclusion: EM and IM residents and attendings fail to offer HIV testing or assess for HIV transmission risk factors with sufficient frequency. There is also a gap in knowledge of the current CDC recommendations.
From 3-Port to New Laparoendoscopic Single-Site (LESS) Cholecystectomy
Authors: Puzziello Alessandro , Orlando Giulio , Siani Claudio , Gervasi Rita , Lerose Maria A. , Lucisano Ada M. , Vescio Giuseppina , Sacco Rosario
Published: February 2012

In recent years, laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) has gained greater interest and diffusion for the treatment of gallstones. This critical review aims to evaluate the feasibility and safety of LESS cholecystectomy versus the 3-port technique (TPT) through a comparative analysis of 5 parameters: mean operative time, intraoperative and postoperative complications, conversion to open, conversion to the 4-trocar technique and postoperative hospital stay. The authors performed a systematic search of the medical literature through a search of PubMed and Ovid EMBASE. Inclusion criteria were as follows: publication date between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2010; English or Italian language; human participants and series of 20 operations or more. There were 5 manuscripts meeting the inclusion criteria for TPT and 23 for LESS. Only one prospective randomized controlled trial comparing TPT and LESS was identified. Operative time is significantly longer in the single-incision group. Complications and conversion rates to the 4-port technique are higher in LESS. Postoperative hospital stay is similar in the 2 groups. Rate of conversion to open is higher in TPT. Despite the number of publications on LESS cholecystectomy, the vast majority of data available in the literature are from small case series without any comparative data. Although LESS cholecystectomy is a fashionable technique there are few data available for an evidence-based determination as to the real benefits of this technique. Well-designed comparative studies are suggested to validate the clinical benefits and ensure that there are no new complications or added costs associated with the new technique.
Design of the Value of Imaging in Enhancing the Wellness of Your Heart (VIEW) trial and the impact of uncertainty on power
Authors: Ambrosius Walter T , Polonsky Tamar S , Greenland Philip , Goff David C , Perdue Letitia H , Fortmann Stephen P , Margolis Karen L , Pajewski Nicholas M
Published: February 2012

Background Although observational evidence has suggested that the measurement of coronary artery calcium (CAC) may improve risk stratification for cardiovascular events and thus help guide the use of lipid-lowering therapy, this contention has not been evaluated within the context of a randomized trial. The Value of Imaging in Enhancing the Wellness of Your Heart (VIEW) trial is proposed as a randomized study in participants at low intermediate risk of future coronary heart disease (CHD) events to evaluate whether CAC testing leads to improved patient outcomes.

Purpose To describe the challenges encountered in designing a prototypical screening trial and to examine the impact of uncertainty on power.

Methods The VIEW trial was designed as an effectiveness clinical trial to examine the benefit of CAC testing to guide therapy on a primary outcome consisting of a composite of nonfatal myocardial infarction, probable or definite angina with revascularization, resuscitated cardiac arrest, nonfatal stroke (not transient ischemic attack (TIA)), CHD death, stroke death, other atherosclerotic death, or other cardiovascular disease (CVD) death. Many critical choices were faced in designing the trial, including (1) the choice of primary outcome, (2) the choice of therapy, (3) the target population with corresponding ethical issues, (4) specifications of assumptions for sample size calculations, and (5) impact of uncertainty in these assumptions on power/sample size determination.

Results We have proposed a sample size of 30,000 (800 events), which provides 92.7% power. Alternatively, sample sizes of 20,228 (539 events), 23,138 (617 events), and 27,078 (722 events) provide 80%, 85%, and 90% power. We have also allowed for uncertainty in our assumptions by computing average power integrated over specified prior distributions. This relaxation of specificity indicates a reduction in power, dropping to 89.9% (95% confidence interval (CI): 89.8–89.9) for a sample size of 30,000. Samples sizes of 20,228, 23,138, and 27,078 provide power of 78.0% (77.9–78.0), 82.5% (82.5–82.6), and 87.2% (87.2–87.3), respectively.

Limitations These power estimates are dependent on form and parameters of the prior distributions.

Conclusions Despite the pressing need for a randomized trial to evaluate the utility of CAC testing, conduct of such a trial requires recruiting a large patient population, making efficiency of critical importance. The large sample size is primarily due to targeting a study population at relatively low risk of a CVD event. Our calculations also illustrate the importance of formally considering uncertainty in power calculations of large trials as standard power calculations may tend to overestimate power.
Pirfenidone treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Azuma Arata
Published: February 2012

Pirfenidone is the first antifibrotic agent to be approved for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is one of the idiopathic interstitial pneumonias with the worst prognoses; approximately half of patients die within 3–5 years, and the need for an effective treatment has been unmet until recently. The etiology of IPF is still unknown and its pathogenesis is poorly understood. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as corticosteroids and some immunosuppressants, have been empirically used to treat IPF, although they have not been objectively proven to be effective by large-scale randomized, controlled trials. Pirfenidone is an agent that can inhibit the decline of forced vital capacity (FVC)/vital capacity (VC) and that thereby can be hoped to decrease the mortality rate. The number of clinical trials of pirfenidone completed, ongoing, or planned is growing, and the present status of pirfenidone as treatment for IPF is summarized in this review.