bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do prior experience, gender, or level of study influence music students’ perspectives on master classes?
Authors: Long Marion , Hallam Susan , Creech Andrea , Gaunt Helena , Robertson Linnhe
Published: April 2011

The cyclic process of self-regulated learning has been identified as a predictor of achievement in musical skill acquisition and musical performance. Meta-cognition, intrinsic to the self-regulation process, develops as the student takes greater responsibility for their own learning. From this perspective we consider music students’ responses to a questionnaire exploring the value and purpose of master classes. Overall, students valued the opportunity to perform in master classes, to receive relevant expert advice and to engage with ideas about interpretation and style. Students with prior experience of performing in master classes were more likely than those lacking performing experience to learn by listening to their peers, to regard master classes as motivational and as an opportunity to perform. In addition, significantly more female than male students listened to master classes, used peer-learning strategies while listening and were more likely to report negative perceptions of the content of the master class. Large effect sizes were found for level of study on the extent of experience as a performer, as a listener and for overall experience in master classes. These findings are discussed in terms of making a successful transition from conservatoire music student to young professional musician.
Tradeoffs in Trade Data
Authors: Boehmer Charles R. , Jungblut Bernadette M.E. , Stoll Richard J.
Published: April 2011

Researchers investigating the link between trade and peace often face a severe problem of list-wise deletion from missing trade data. Attempts to mitigate this problem include assuming that most observations are zero or imputing the values of such flows. We compare two frequently used trade data sets (the Gleditsch data set and the Correlates of War Project data set). We classify individual observations as observed, constructed or missing. We demonstrate that state attributes are systematically related to different categories of trade data. Using Monte Carlo simulations, we also find that replacing some missing data with estimated values tends to inflate the effects of trade in conflict models, although the effects differ by data set.
Unraveling Medicare and Medicaid Prescription Drug Fraud and Abuse
Authors: Toothman Myranda , Moore Ken , Lee Doohee
Published: April 2011

With government spending on Medicare and Medicaid programs skyrocketing, their futures are questionable. Many politicians and political pundits are calling for intense oversight of these agencies to reduce fraud and abuse in the system and, consequently, rein in costs. Many medical providers’ fraudulent behaviors, which cost the medical community billions of dollars, stem from prescribing of pharmaceutical drugs to treat an illness or injury. Although this is part of the job of providers, some allow kickbacks from pharmaceutical companies or patient requests to cloud their clinical judgment. This article identifies several options for increased enforcement of laws concerning Medicaid and Medicare fraud and abuse of drug benefits, with great emphasis placed on the Integrated Data Repository currently under development by the federal government.
Optimizing pain relief in a specialized outpatient palliative radiotherapy clinic: Contributions of a clinical pharmacist
Authors: Gagnon L , Fairchild A , Pituskin E , Dutka J , Chambers C
Published: April 2011

Purpose. Bone metastases are the most common cause of cancer pain, with palliative radiotherapy (RT) the mainstay of treatment. However, relief from RT may be delayed, incomplete, or short-lived and therefore optimized pharmacologic therapy is essential. Our objective was to describe the contribution of the clinical pharmacist (CP) to an outpatient palliative RT clinic.

Methods. The Edmonton Symptom Assessment System, an 11-point scale for measuring nine symptoms, and other validated screening tools were administered, and a medication history performed by the CP. Baseline CP assessment also included opioid toxicity, need for supportive medications, and drug interactions. Anonymized clinical information was collected prospectively and descriptive statistics were compiled including themes of counselling performed by the CP.

Results. The CP reviewed 114 patients over 140 clinic visits (01/2007–12/2008). Median age was 68.3 years, 68.4% were male and 36.8% had prostate cancer. All symptoms improved or stabilized in ≥80% by 4 weeks. Median pain score was 6/10 (SD 2.6) at baseline, and 2.1/10 (SD 2.4) by week 4. Average morphine equivalent daily dose was 76.8 mg at baseline and 44.5 mg at week 4. CP assessment included screening for opioid toxicity (87.9%), recommending a change in analgesic (28.9%), and liaison with the community pharmacy (17.1%). Medication counselling took place in 84.3% of visits, on bowel routine (85.6% of the time), opioids (82.2%), and hydration (40.7%).

Conclusions. The CP plays a key role in holistic patient assessment and optimization of pharmacologic therapy, contributing to improved symptom control of patients receiving palliative RT.
Cerebellar Gray Matter Density in Females With ADHD Combined Type: A Cross-Sectional Voxel-Based Morphometry Study
Authors: Almeida Montes Luis Guillermo , Ricardo-Garcell Josefina , De la Torre Lázaro Barajas , Prado Alcántara Hugo , Martínez García Reyna Beatriz , Ávila Acosta David , Fernández Bouzas Antonio
Published: April 2011

Background: MRI studies have shown a decreased cerebellum volume in individuals with ADHD. However, most of these studies were conducted with male children, many of whom were medicated with stimulants. As such, unmedicated, non-White girls are underrepresented in such MRI studies. Objective: The aim of the present study was to compare the density of gray matter (GM) in the cerebellar hemisphere between unmedicated, non-White female children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with ADHD combined type (ADHD-C) and healthy controls. Method: MRIs were performed on 11 Hispanic unmedicated ADHD-C children (6-10 years old), 8 Hispanic adolescents (14-17 years old), 10 Hispanic adults (25-35 years old), and the respective healthy controls. Image processing and statistical analyses were performed by Voxel Based Morphometry using the DARTEL algorithm to improve spatial normalization. Results: Reduced GM density located in the right cerebellar hemisphere was found in female children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD-C. Conclusions: These findings suggest that there is an anatomical abnormality in the right cerebellar hemisphere in unmedicated Hispanic girls with ADHD-C that is present from childhood to adulthood.
Sovereignty and political modernity: A genealogy of Agamben’s critique of sovereignty
Authors: Jennings Ronald C.
Published: April 2011

This essay is an examination of the implications of the largely uncritical taking up of the ascendant Agambenian paradigm in recent scholarship. Following Arendt, it is argued that the most important reason for the success of the polemical redefinition of political community as subjecthood by those who elaborated the project of political modernity (esp. Bodin and Hobbes) has been its success at getting its opponents (e.g. Locke, Bentham, Austin, Rousseau, Weber, Benjamin, Foucault, Derrida, and Agamben) to accept this definition of sovereignty as both an empirical reality and as the critical object against and through which future politics must be defined. As a result, the project of naming the sovereign — however rhetorically satisfying — has never failed to be deeply disabling for both scholarship and politics, as scholars accept its radical modern naturalization, rationalization, and unification of power as the basic concept of political organization and as the possibilities of political life come to be defined by the impossible task of deriving freedom from the concept of sovereignty. The most important recent example of this is Agamben’s work which, because it is based on Benjamin’s early writings in which this modern imbrication of sovereignty and political life is viewed as complete and irreversible, requires — if we are to get out of sovereignty — nothing less than that we reject every possibility of future political community and make a complete ontological break from political forms. This, it is argued here, is much too much to ask of either scholarship or of our political present.
Mapping embodiment: methodologies for representing pain and injury
Authors: Tarr Jen , Thomas Helen
Published: April 2011

This article examines the insights that visualization technologies such as 3D body scanning and mapping may provide for understanding embodied experience. The analysis draws on data from a research project on the socio-cultural contexts of dance injuries which used a mixed methodology including questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and body mapping with 205 dancers to explore how they distinguish between pain and injury and the consequences this has for their bodies and careers. The findings point to important differences between the data gained through the questionnaires and the data gathered in mapping and in-depth interviewing, suggesting that body mapping may point to the limitations of questionnaire methods in gathering data about experiences such as pain. Using a framework for understanding embodiment derived from cultural phenomenology, we argue that body mapping can be a useful tool for increasing awareness of embodied experiences such as pain which often recede from conscious perception.
Planning as agonistic communication in a trading zone: Re-examining Lindblom’s partisan mutual adjustment
Authors: Mäntysalo Raine , Balducci Alessandro , Kangasoja Jonna
Published: April 2011

The article re-examines Charles E Lindblom’s theory of partisan mutual adjustment (PMA), by reflecting on the recent ideas on cross-cultural cooperation and communication, developed in sociological studies of science and technology. While the critical arguments of the so-called communicative (or collaborative) planning theorists on PMA are well known and well placed, they may have overlooked the complexities of planning communication. Especially Peter Galison’s concept of ‘ trading zone’ offers a fresh outlook on these complexities. In the article, Lindblomian bargaining and compromise-seeking are re-interpreted in terms of creating a local trading zone between the stakeholders representing different cultures of meaning and value. This approach challenges two assumptions that have become commonplace in the planning theoretical debate around PMA: firstly, that trading between interests would not necessitate mutual dialogue and generation of a realm of shared understandings, and secondly, that approaching planning communication as trading between interests would mean adopting the political ideology of (neo)liberalism.
Exchange studies as actor-networks: Following Korean exchange students in Swedish higher education
Authors: Ahn Song-ee
Published: April 2011

This article explores how Korean exchange students organized their studies during exchange programs in Swedish higher education. For most students, the programs became a disordered period in relation to their education. The value of exchange studies seems mainly to be extra-curricular. Drawing upon actor network theory, the article argues that the students’ way of organizing their studies is based not only on individual choice but also on relations to other actors in a network.
Validation of a New Biomechanical Model to Measure Muscle Tone in Spastic Muscles
Authors: Lindberg Påvel G. , Gäverth Johan , Islam Mominul , Fagergren Anders , Borg Jörgen , Forssberg Hans
Published: April 2011

Background. There is no easy and reliable method to measure spasticity, although it is a common and important symptom after a brain injury. Objective. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a new method to measure spasticity that can be easily used in clinical practice. Methods. A biomechanical model was created to estimate the components of the force resisting passive hand extension, namely ( a) inertia (IC), ( b) elasticity (EC), ( c) viscosity (VC), and ( d) neural components (NC). The model was validated in chronic stroke patients with varying degree of hand spasticity. Electromyography (EMG) was recorded to measure the muscle activity induced by the passive stretch. Results. The model was validated in 3 ways: ( a) NC was reduced after an ischemic nerve block, ( b) NC correlated with the integrated EMG across subjects and in the same subject during the ischemic nerve block, and ( c) NC was velocity dependent. In addition, the total resisting force and NC correlated with the modified Ashworth score. According to the model, the neural and nonneural components varied between patients. In most of the patients, but not in all, the NC dominated. Conclusions. The results suggest that the model allows valid measurement of spasticity in the upper extremity of chronic stroke patients and that it can be used to separate the neural component induced by the stretch reflex from resistance caused by altered muscle properties.
Pharmacologic approaches to life-threatening asthma
Authors: Rogers Linda , Reibman Joan
Published: April 2011

Following a peak in asthma mortality in the late 1980s and early 1990s, we have been fortunate to see a substantial decrease in asthma deaths in recent years. Although most asthma deaths occur outside the hospital, near-fatal events are commonplace, with anywhere from 2–20% of patients with acute asthma admitted to intensive care, and 2-4% intubated for respiratory failure. Standard therapies for acute severe and near-fatal asthma include administration of systemic corticosteroids, and frequent or continuous inhaled beta agonists. Controversy remains regarding the optimal therapy of those who fail to respond to these initial treatments, those who remain at risk of acute respiratory failure, and patients requiring mechanical ventilation. There remain significant gaps in our knowledge regarding relative benefits of intravenous versus oral corticosteroids, intermittent versus continuous beta agonists, and the role of various adjunctive treatments including intravenous magnesium, systemic beta agonists, aminophylline, and helium-oxygen mixtures. Using models and radiolabeled aerosols, there is a greater understanding regarding effective administration of inhaled beta-agonists in ventilated patients. There is limited available evidence for treatment of near-fatal asthma, a fact reflected by the significant variability in asthma critical care practice. Much of the data guiding treatment in this setting has been generalized from studies of acute asthma in the ED and from general populations of hospitalized patients with acute asthma. This review will focus on pharmacologic approaches to life-threatening asthma by reviewing current guideline recommendations, reviewing the scientific basis of the guidelines, and highlighting gaps in our knowledge in treatment of refractory acute or near-fatal asthma.
Correction of Metatarsus Primus Varus Associated With Hallux Valgus Deformity Using the Arthrex Mini TightRope
Authors: Kayiaros Stephen , Blankenhorn Brad D , Dehaven Jordan , Van Lancker Hans , Sardella Peter , Pascalides James T , DiGiovanni Christopher W
Published: April 2011

Metatarsus primus varus must be addressed during correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity. As an alternative to proximal osteotomy or first tarsometatarsal fusion for hallux valgus correction, this study presents a series of patients treated using the Arthrex Mini TightRope. A total of 36 patients (44 operations) with hallux valgus and metatarsus primus varus underwent correction using the Arthrex Mini TightRope. Assessment included measurement of radiographic parameters, the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot outcomes score, and the SF-12. The average hallux valgus angle improved from 32.2° to 15.2° ( P < .0001). The average first intermetatarsal angle improved from 14.6° to 8.2° ( P < .0001). The average distal metatarsal articular angle improved from 17.0° to 9.6° ( P < .0001). The average AOFAS midfoot outcomes scores improved from 45.44 to 84.72 ( P < .0001). Postoperative SF-12 physical and mental scores averaged 52.99 and 56.63. Only one patient had recurrence of deformity. Correcting metatarsus primus varus in association with hallux valgus deformity using the Arthrex Mini TightRope should be considered a treatment option. This technique is less invasive and seems capable of maintaining correction while allowing for early weight bearing and avoiding the need for a proximal first metatarsal osteotomy or Lapidus procedure.
Cancerous inhibitor of PP2A (CIP2A) at diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia is a critical determinant of disease progression
Authors: Lucas Claire M. , Harris Robert J. , Giannoudis Athina , Copland Mhairi , Slupsky Joseph R. , Clark Richard E.
Published: April 2011

Prospective identification of patients whose chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) will progress to blast crisis is currently not possible. PP2A is a phosphatase and tumor suppressor that regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Cancerous inhibitor of PP2A (CIP2A) is a recently described inhibitor of PP2A in breast and gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate whether CIP2A played a role in CML and whether PP2A or its inhibitor proteins CIP2A or SET could predict clinical outcome. At the time of diagnosis of CML, patients who will later progress to blast crisis have significantly higher levels of CIP2A protein (P < .0001) than patients who do not progress, suggesting that PP2A is functionally inactive. We show that the potential mechanism for disease progression is via altered phosphorylation of the oncogene c-Myc. Knockdown of CIP2A results in increased PP2A activity, decreased c-Myc levels, and a decrease in BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase activity. We demonstrate that CIP2A levels at diagnosis can consistently predict patients who will progress to blast crisis. The data show that CIP2A is biologically and clinically important in CML and may be a novel therapeutic target.
Evaluation of compliance and outcomes of a management protocol for massive postpartum hemorrhage at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan
Authors: Sheikh Lumaan , Najmi Nida , Khalid Umair , Saleem Taimur
Published: April 2011

Background

Massive postpartum hemorrhage is a life threatening obstetric emergency. In order to prevent the complications associated with this condition, an organized and step-wise management protocol should be immediately initiated.

Methods

An evidence based management protocol for massive postpartum hemorrhage was implemented at Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan after an audit in 2005. We sought to evaluate the compliance and outcomes associated with this management protocol 3 years after its implementation. A review of all deliveries with massive primary postpartum hemorrhage (blood loss ≥ 1500 ml) between January, 2008 to December, 2008 was carried out. Information regarding mortality, mode of delivery, possible cause of postpartum hemorrhage and medical or surgical intervention was collected. The estimation of blood loss was made via subjective and objective assessment.

Results

During 2008, massive postpartum hemorrhage occurred in 0.64% cases (26/4,052). No deaths were reported. The mean blood loss was 2431 ± 1817 ml (range: 1500 - 9000 ml). Emergency cesarean section was the most common mode of delivery (13/26; 50%) while uterine atony was the most common cause of massive postpartum hemorrhage (14/26; 54%). B-lynch suture (24%) and balloon tamponade (60%) were used more commonly as compared to our previously reported experience. Cesarean hysterectomy was performed in 3 cases (12%) for control of massive postpartum hemorrhage. More than 80% compliance was observed in 8 out of 10 steps of the management protocol. Initiation of blood transfusion at 1500 ml blood loss (89%) and overall documentation of management (92%) were favorably observed in most cases.

Conclusion

This report details our experience with the practical implementation of a management protocol for massive postpartum hemorrhage at a tertiary care hospital in a developing country. With the exception of arterial embolization, relatively newer, simpler and potentially safer techniques are now being employed for the management of massive postpartum hemorrhage at our institution. Particular attention should be paid to the documentation of the management steps while ensuring a stricter adherence to the formulated protocols and guidelines in order to further ameliorate patient outcomes in emergency obstetrical practice. More audits like the one we performed are important to recognize and rectify any deficiencies in obstetrical practice in developing countries. Dissemination of the same is pivotal to enable an open discourse on the improvement of existing obstetrical strategies.
Effect of multiple micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy on maternal and birth outcomes
Authors: Haider Batool Azra , Yakoob Mohammad Yawar , Bhutta Zulfiqar A
Published: April 2011

Objectives/background

Given the widespread prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies in developing countries, supplementation with multiple micronutrients rather than iron-folate alone, could be of potential benefit to the mother and the fetus. These benefits could relate to prevention of maternal complications and reduction in other adverse pregnancy outcomes such as small-for-gestational age (SGA) births, low birth weight, stillbirths, perinatal and neonatal mortality. This review evaluates the evidence of the impact of multiple micronutrient supplements during pregnancy, in comparison with standard iron-folate supplements, on specific maternal and pregnancy outcomes of relevance to the Lives Saved Tool (LiST).

Data sources/review methods

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials was conducted. Search engines used were PubMed, the Cochrane Library, the WHO regional databases and hand search of bibliographies. A standardized data abstraction and Child Health Epidemiology Reference (CHERG) adaptation of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) technique were used for data abstraction and overall quality of evidence. Meta-analyses were performed to calculate summary estimates of utility to the LiST model for the specified outcome of incidence of SGA births. We also evaluated the potential impact of multiple micronutrients on neonatal mortality according to the proportion of deliveries occurring in facilities (using a threshold of 60% to indicate functionality of health systems for skilled births).

Results

We included 17 studies for detailed data abstraction. There was no significant benefit of multiple micronutrients as compared to iron folate on maternal anemia in third trimester [Relative risk (RR) = 1.03; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.87 – 1.22 (random model)]. Our analysis, however, showed a significant reduction in SGA by 9% [RR = 0.91; 95% CI: 0.86 – 0.96 (fixed model)]. In the fixed model, the SGA outcome remained significant only in women with mean body mass index (BMI) ≥ 22 kg/m2. There was an increased risk of neonatal mortality in studies with majority of births at home [RR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.13-1.92]; such an effect was not evident where ≥ 60% of births occurred in facility settings [RR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.81-1.09]. Overall there was no increase in the risk of neonatal mortality [RR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.92 – 1.19 (fixed model)].

Conclusion

This review provides evidence of a significant benefit of MMN supplementation during pregnancy on reducing SGA births as compared to iron-folate, with no significant increase in the risk of neonatal mortality in populations where skilled birth care is available and majority of births take place in facilities. Given comparability of impacts on maternal anemia, the decision to replace iron-folate with multiple micronutrients during pregnancy may be taken in the context of available services in health systems and birth outcomes monitored.
Impact of vitamin A supplementation on infant and childhood mortality
Authors: Imdad Aamer , Yakoob Mohammad Yawar , Sudfeld Christopher , Haider Batool A , Black Robert E , Bhutta Zulfiqar A
Published: April 2011

Introduction

Vitamin A is important for the integrity and regeneration of respiratory and gastrointestinal epithelia and is involved in regulating human immune function. It has been shown previously that vitamin A has a preventive effect on all-cause and disease specific mortality in children under five. The purpose of this paper was to get a point estimate of efficacy of vitamin A supplementation in reducing cause specific mortality by using Child Health Epidemiology Reference Group (CHERG) guidelines.

Methods

A literature search was done on PubMed, Cochrane Library and WHO regional data bases using various free and Mesh terms for vitamin A and mortality. Data were abstracted into standardized forms and quality of studies was assessed according to standardized guidelines. Pooled estimates were generated for preventive effect of vitamin A supplementation on all-cause and disease specific mortality of diarrhea, measles, pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis. We did a subgroup analysis for vitamin A supplementation in neonates, infants 1-6 months and children aged 6-59 months. In this paper we have focused on estimation of efficacy of vitamin A supplementation in children 6-59 months of age. Results for neonatal vitamin A supplementation have been presented, however no recommendations are made as more evidence on it would be available soon.

Results

There were 21 studies evaluating preventive effect of vitamin A supplementation in community settings which reported all-cause mortality. Twelve of these also reported cause specific mortality for diarrhea and pneumonia and six reported measles specific mortality. Combined results from six studies showed that neonatal vitamin A supplementation reduced all-cause mortality by 12 % [Relative risk (RR) 0.88; 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.79-0.98]. There was no effect of vitamin A supplementation in reducing all-cause mortality in infants 1-6 months of age [RR 1.05; 95 % CI 0.88-1.26]. Pooled results for preventive vitamin A supplementation showed that it reduced all-cause mortality by 25% [RR 0.75; 95 % CI 0.64-0.88] in children 6-59 months of age. Vitamin A supplementation also reduced diarrhea specific mortality by 30% [RR 0.70; 95 % CI 0.58-0.86] in children 6-59 months. This effect has been recommended for inclusion in the Lives Saved Tool. Vitamin A supplementation had no effect on measles [RR 0.71, 95% CI: 0.43-1.16], meningitis [RR 0.73, 95% CI: 0.22-2.48] and pneumonia [RR 0.94, 95% CI: 0.67-1.30] specific mortality.

Conclusion

Preventive vitamin A supplementation reduces all-cause and diarrhea specific mortality in children 6-59 months of age in community settings in developing countries.
The effect of providing skilled birth attendance and emergency obstetric care in preventing stillbirths
Authors: Yakoob Mohammad Yawar , Ali Mahrukh Ayesha , Ali Mohammad Usman , Imdad Aamer , Lawn Joy E , Van Den Broek Nynke , Bhutta Zulfiqar A
Published: April 2011

Background

Of the global burden of 2.6 million stillbirths, around 1.2 million occur during labour i.e. are intrapartum deaths. In low-/middle-income countries, a significant proportion of women give birth at home, usually in the absence of a skilled birth attendant. This review discusses the impact of skilled birth attendance (SBA) and the provision of Emergency Obstetric Care (EOC) on stillbirths and perinatal mortality.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Database and the WHO regional libraries. Data of all eligible studies were extracted into a standardized Excel sheet containing variables such as participants’ characteristics, sample size, location, setting, blinding, allocation concealment, intervention and control details and limitations. We undertook a meta-analysis of the impact of SBA on stillbirths. Given the paucity of data from randomized trials or robust quasi-experimental designs, we undertook an expert Delphi consultation to determine impact estimates of provision of Basic and Comprehensive EOC on reducing stillbirths if there would be universal coverage (99%).

Results

The literature search yielded 871 hits. A total of 21 studies were selected for data abstraction. Our meta-analysis on community-based skilled birth attendance based on two before-after studies showed a 23% significant reduction in stillbirths (RR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.69 – 0.85). The overall quality grade of available evidence for this intervention on stillbirths was ‘moderate’. The Delphi process supported the estimated reduction in stillbirths by skilled attendance and experts further suggested that the provision of Basic EOC had the potential to avert intrapartum stillbirths by 45% and with provision of Comprehensive EOC this could be reduced by 75%. These estimates are conservative, consistent with historical trends in maternal and perinatal mortality from both developed and developing countries, and are recommended for inclusion in the Lives Saved Tool (LiST) model.

Conclusions

Both Skilled Birth Attendance and Emergency/or Essential Obstetric Care have the potential to reduce the number of stillbirths seen globally. Further evidence is needed to be able to calculate an effect size.
N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide is decreased in insulin dependent gestational diabetes mellitus: a prospective cohort trial
Authors: Andreas Martin , Zeisler Harald , Handisurya Ammon , Franz Maximilian B , Gottsauner-Wolf Michael , Wolzt Michael , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra
Published: April 2011

Background

N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is elevated in gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. This trial aimed to generate data for gestational diabetes mellitus patients, who are at risk to develop these complications.

Methods

We have measured NT-proBNP in 223 otherwise healthy women between gestational week 24 and 32 referred to the outpatient diabetes unit in a cross-sectional study.

Results

88 control subjects, 45 patients with indication for medical nutrition therapy (MNT) alone and 90 patients who required insulin therapy were included. Groups of women were comparable regarding gestational week. Body mass index before pregnancy and at blood draw was significantly higher in subjects with insulin dependent gestational diabetes mellitus compared to MNT controlled gestational diabetes mellitus. NT-proBNP was significantly lower in patients with insulin dependent gestational diabetes mellitus (35 ± 25 pg/ml) compared to controls (53 ± 43 pg/ml, p = 0.012).

Conclusions

NT-proBNP is within the reference range of normal subjects in women with gestational diabetes mellitus. Differences in body mass index, changes in glomerular filtration rate and haemodynamics may explain lower NT-proBNP concentrations in insulin dependent gestational diabetes mellitus. A false negative interpretation needs to be considered in these women.
Anisotropic Ti
x
Sn1-

x
O2 nanostructures prepared by magnetron sputter deposition
Authors: Chen Shutian , Li Zhengcao , Zhang Zhengjun
Published: April 2011

Regular arrays of Ti
x
Sn1-
x
O2 nanoflakes were fabricated through glancing angle sputter deposition onto self-assembled close-packed arrays of 200-nm-diameter polystyrene spheres. The morphology of nanostructures could be controlled by simply adjusting the sputtering power of the Ti target. The reflectance measurements showed that the melon seed-shaped nanoflakes exhibited optimal properties of antireflection in the entire visible and ultraviolet region. In addition, we determined their anisotropic reflectance in the direction parallel to the surface of nanoflakes and perpendicular to it, arising from the anisotropic morphology.
A comparative study of non-covalent encapsulation methods for organic dyes into silica nanoparticles
Authors: Auger Aurélien , Samuel Jorice , Poncelet Olivier , Raccurt Olivier
Published: April 2011

Numerous luminophores may be encapsulated into silica nanoparticles (< 100 nm) using the reverse microemulsion process. Nevertheless, the behaviour and effect of such luminescent molecules appear to have been much less studied and may possibly prevent the encapsulation process from occurring. Such nanospheres represent attractive nanoplatforms for the development of biotargeted biocompatible luminescent tracers. Physical and chemical properties of the encapsulated molecules may be affected by the nanomatrix. This study examines the synthesis of different types of dispersed silica nanoparticles, the ability of the selected luminophores towards incorporation into the silica matrix of those nanoobjects as well as the photophysical properties of the produced dye-doped silica nanoparticles. The nanoparticles present mean diameters between 40 and 60 nm as shown by TEM analysis. Mainly, the photophysical characteristics of the dyes are retained upon their encapsulation into the silica matrix, leading to fluorescent silica nanoparticles. This feature article surveys recent research progress on the fabrication strategies of these dye-doped silica nanoparticles.
Fabrication of complete titania nanoporous structures via electrochemical anodization of Ti
Authors: Ali Ghafar , Chen Chong , Yoo Seung Hwa , Kum Jong Min , Cho Sung Oh
Published: April 2011

We present a novel method to fabricate complete and highly oriented anodic titanium oxide (ATO) nano-porous structures with uniform and parallel nanochannels. ATO nano-porous structures are fabricated by anodizing a Ti-foil in two different organic viscous electrolytes at room temperature using a two-step anodizing method. TiO2nanotubes covered with a few nanometer thin nano-porous layer is produced when the first and the second anodization are carried out in the same electrolyte. However, a complete titania nano-porous (TNP) structures are obtained when the second anodization is conducted in a viscous electrolyte when compared to the first one. TNP structure was attributed to the suppression of F-rich layer dissolution between the cell boundaries in the viscous electrolyte. The structural morphologies were examined by field emission scanning electron microscope. The average pore diameter is approximately 70 nm, while the average inter-pore distance is approximately 130 nm. These TNP structures are useful to fabricate other nanostructure materials and nanodevices.
Sensitive and molecular size-selective detection of proteins using a chip-based and heteroliganded gold nanoisland by localized surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Hong Surin , Lee Suseung , Yi Jongheop
Published: April 2011

A highly sensitive and molecular size-selective method for the detection of proteins using heteroliganded gold nanoislands and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) is described. Two different heteroligands with different chain lengths (3-mercaptopionicacid and decanethiol) were used in fabricating nanoholes for the size-dependent separation of a protein in comparison with its aggregate. Their ratios on gold nanoisland were optimized for the sensitive detection of superoxide dismutase (SOD1). This protein has been implicated in the pathology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Upon exposure of the optimized gold nanoisland to a solution of SOD1 and aggregates thereof, changes in the LSPR spectra were observed which are attributed to the size-selective and covalent chemical binding of SOD1 to the nanoholes. With a lower detection limit of 1.0 ng/ml, the method can be used to selectively detect SOD1 in the presence of aggregates at the molecular level.
Protein synthesis of the pro-inflammatory S100A8/A9 complex in plasmacytoid dendritic cells and cell surface S100A8/A9 on leukocyte subpopulations in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lood Christian , Stenström Martin , Tydén Helena , Gullstrand Birgitta , Källberg Eva , Leanderson Tomas , Truedsson Lennart , Sturfelt Gunnar , Ivars Fredrik , Bengtsson Anders A
Published: April 2011

Introduction

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with chronic or episodic inflammation in many different organ systems, activation of leukocytes and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The heterodimer of the cytosolic calcium-binding proteins S100A8 and S100A9 (S100A8/A9) is secreted by activated polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) and monocytes and serves as a serum marker for several inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, S100A8 and S100A9 have many pro-inflammatory properties such as binding to Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). In this study we investigated if aberrant cell surface S100A8/A9 could be seen in SLE and if plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) could synthesize S100A8/A9.

Methods

Flow cytometry, confocal microscopy and real-time PCR of flow cytometry-sorted cells were used to measure cell surface S100A8/A9, intracellular S100A8/A9 and mRNA levels of S100A8 and S100A9, respectively.

Results

Cell surface S100A8/A9 was detected on all leukocyte subpopulations investigated except for T cells. By confocal microscopy, real-time PCR and stimulation assays, we could demonstrate that pDCs, monocytes and PMNs could synthesize S100A8/A9. Furthermore, pDC cell surface S100A8/A9 was higher in patients with active disease as compared to patients with inactive disease. Upon immune complex stimulation, pDCs up-regulated the cell surface S100A8/A9. SLE patients had also increased serum levels of S100A8/A9.

Conclusions

Patients with SLE had increased cell surface S100A8/A9, which could be important in amplification and persistence of inflammation. Importantly, pDCs were able to synthesize S100A8/A9 proteins and up-regulate the cell surface expression upon immune complex-stimulation. Thus, S100A8/A9 may be a potent target for treatment of inflammatory diseases such as SLE.
A quantitative literature-curated gold standard for kinase-substrate pairs
Authors: Sharifpoor Sara , Nguyen Ba Alex N , Young Ji-Young , van Dyk Dewald , Friesen Helena , Douglas Alison C , Kurat Christoph F , Chong Yolanda T , Founk Karen , Moses Alan M , Andrews Brenda J
Published: April 2011

We describe the Yeast Kinase Interaction Database (KID, http://www.moseslab.csb.utoronto.ca/KID/), which contains high- and low-throughput data relevant to phosphorylation events. KID includes 6,225 low-throughput and 21,990 high-throughput interactions, from greater than 35,000 experiments. By quantitatively integrating these data, we identified 517 high-confidence kinase-substrate pairs that we consider a gold standard. We show that this gold standard can be used to assess published high-throughput datasets, suggesting that it will enable similar rigorous assessments in the future.
Poaching on Crusoe's Island: Popular Reading and Chapbook Editions of Robinson Crusoe
Authors: O'Malley Andrew
Published: April 2011

In this essay, the author argues that chapbook editions of Robinson Crusoe should be viewed not simply as impoverished abridgments of Defoe's novel, but as striking examples of the popular “appropriation” of an elite text by plebeian readers. The ruthless editorial decisions required to reduce a 400-page novel to a 24-page chapbook with woodcut illustrations may appear haphazard at times, omitting such vital scenes as Crusoe's discovery of the footprint, for instance, but actually express the preferences, interests, and reading practices of common readers. Popular reading often challenges and confounds the aesthetic and narrative expectations of experienced readers. Similarly, popular chapbook editions of Robinson Crusoe contest, dispute, and sometimes reject the ideological underpinnings of their elite source text.
SMAD4-mediated WNT signaling controls the fate of cranial neural crest cells during tooth morphogenesis
Authors: Li Jingyuan , Huang Xiaofeng , Xu Xun , Mayo Julie , Bringas Pablo , Jiang Rulang , Wang Songling , Chai Yang
Published: April 2011

TGFβ/BMP signaling regulates the fate of multipotential cranial neural crest (CNC) cells during tooth and jawbone formation as these cells differentiate into odontoblasts and osteoblasts, respectively. The functional significance of SMAD4, the common mediator of TGFβ/BMP signaling, in regulating the fate of CNC cells remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of SMAD4 in regulating the fate of CNC-derived dental mesenchymal cells through tissue-specific inactivation of Smad4. Ablation of Smad4 results in defects in odontoblast differentiation and dentin formation. Moreover, ectopic bone-like structures replaced normal dentin in the teeth of Osr2-IresCre;Smad4fl/fl mice. Despite the lack of dentin, enamel formation appeared unaffected in Osr2-IresCre;Smad4fl/fl mice, challenging the paradigm that the initiation of enamel development depends on normal dentin formation. At the molecular level, loss of Smad4 results in downregulation of the WNT pathway inhibitors Dkk1 and Sfrp1 and in the upregulation of canonical WNT signaling, including increased β-catenin activity. More importantly, inhibition of the upregulated canonical WNT pathway in Osr2-IresCre;Smad4fl/fl dental mesenchyme in vitro partially rescued the CNC cell fate change. Taken together, our study demonstrates that SMAD4 plays a crucial role in regulating the interplay between TGFβ/BMP and WNT signaling to ensure the proper CNC cell fate decision during organogenesis.
HD Supply Facilities Maintenance Uses Diluted Discounts to Optimize Purchasing Opportunities
Authors: Buquid Jude , Gibson David , Huppert Paul
Published: April 2011

At HD Supply Facilities Maintenance, as in many organizations, internal departments often have goals and incentives that seem diametrically opposed to those of other departments or, at the very least, in conflict. Many companies use this approach to balance overall goals, such as sales growth versus profitability. However, a conflict can arise when a decision, on which stakeholders hold differing viewpoints, must be made. In this paper, we discuss a situation in which a supplier has offered to sell HD Supply Facilities Maintenance a product at a discount. Accepting this offer can create a potential overstock situation. Merchandising, whose incentives include growth in gross profit margin dollars, is eager to buy and hold discounted inventory, because it will eventually sell the product at a greater profit level than it could otherwise. Inventory management seeks to keep a minimal amount of inventory on hand to maximize inventory turnover, thus reducing the working capital required to maintain operations. The solution that we developed to maximize value for the enterprise uses a diluted discount approach to assign merit to a forward buy-in deal. Our solution led to a period of debate and education across stakeholder departments and the eventual adoption of an automated, self-service tool that all practitioners can use.
Averaging Model Forecasts and Expert Forecasts: Why Does It Work?
Authors: Franses Philip Hans
Published: April 2011

This paper addresses a situation in which a manager has forecasts of country-specific stock-keeping unit (SKU)-level sales data from both a statistical model and from a range of experts. Empirical evidence suggests that averaging model forecasts and expert forecasts could give more accuracy than the individual forecasts do. At the same time, empirical evidence demonstrates that expert forecasts tend to be biased. So, why is it that this average could work? This paper assumes that expert forecasts can be decomposed into a judgmental bootstrapping equation, to be created by the manager, and a part based on unobserved intuition. When the bootstrapping equation dominates the intuition, it is this underlying model for the expert that can make the combined average forecast more accurate. An illustration for no less than 1,221 cases supports this conjecture.
Braids and crossed modules
Authors: Huebschmann J.
Published: April 2011

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The Advantages of Using Color to Represent Constraints in Collaborative Planning Representations
Authors: Elizabeth Lerner Papautsky , Shalin Valerie L.
Published: April 2011

The present study concerns the representation of plans that incorporate constraints behind the intended activities for team planning tasks. The experimental task was a modification of a game entitled 10 Days in Africa in which the players must complete a journey through the continent of Africa. Dyad members constructed their own planning representations and determined meeting places collaboratively. We augmented the representation of a timeline with representations for the constraints between adjacent events by using color and text. Although both forms of constraint representation improve performance, color is a perceptual feature that is effective without attentional resources. The presence of color resulted in generally improved process and performance as captured by various measures, including verbal interaction. Our finding is consistent with research on color but at a much larger time scale and in the presence of a more complicated cognitive task. Color facilitates planning strategies by drawing attention to opportunities and supporting the chunking of sub-goals. Representing constraints explicitly via color is advantageous in collaborative planning, by halving completion time and reducing discussion concerning constraint compliance, consistent with the view that discussion compensates for display limitations.
Listening to the Self: The Shawshank Redemption and the Technology of Music
Authors: Chua Daniel K. L.
Published: April 2011

Music has often been used to symbolize and express ontological experiences. This article explores a mode of nineteenth-century self-audition where music captures a glimpse of the freedom that lies at the core of the subject. This mode of listening has intensified with the development of modern technology and is still prevalent in constructing the identity of the self. The opera scene from the Shawshank Redemption not only is an example of this special effect, but provides a narrative of how music achieves this affect, creating an ideal and virtual self through sound technology.
Thyroid hormone and recovery of cardiac function in patients with acute myocardial infarction: a strong association?
Authors: Lymvaios Ioannis , Mourouzis Iordanis , Cokkinos Dennis V , Dimopoulos Meletios A , Toumanidis Savvas T , Pantos Constantinos
Published: April 2011

Objective

This study investigated whether changes in thyroid hormone (TH) in plasma are associated with the recovery of cardiac function in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Previous experimental studies have provided evidence of potential implication of TH signaling in post-ischemic recovery of cardiac function.

Methods

A total of 47 patients with AMI and early reperfusion therapy were included in this study. Myocardial injury was analyzed by peak creatinine kinase–MB (CKMB) and cardiac function was assessed by echocardiographic left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF%). Recovery of function (ΔEF%) was estimated as the difference of LVEF% between 48 h and 6 months (6 mo) after AMI. Total triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), and TSH were measured in plasma at different time points (24 h, 48 h, 5 d, and 6 mo).

Results

A significant correlation between LVEF% and T3 (r=0.5, P=0.0004) was found early after AMI (48 h), whereas no correlation was observed between CKMB and T3 (r=−0.04, P=0.81). A strong correlation was found between ΔEF% and total T3 (r=0.64, P=10−6) at 6 mo after AMI. Furthermore, multivariate regression analysis revealed that T3 at 6 mo (r=0.64, r2=0.41, P=10−6) was an independent determinant of ΔEF%.

Conclusion

Changes in T3 levels in plasma are closely correlated with the early and late recovery of cardiac function after AMI. T3 levels at 6 mo appear to be an independent predictor of late functional recovery.