bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Corporate International Expansion Beyond the Home Region: An Empirical Examination of U.S. Multinational Enterprises Expansion to Europe and Asia‐Pacific
Authors: Mauri Alfredo , Song Sangcheol , Neiva de Figueiredo João
Published: January 2017

Research Summary

This study extends Rugman and Verbeke (2001)'s model by examining how firm‐specific advantages (FSAs) and host region conditions affect multinational enterprise expansion at the inter‐regional level. We examine the impact of their three constructs (non‐location‐bound FSAs, location‐bound FSAs, and complementary resources in the host regions) on U.S. MNEs’ sales in Europe and Asia/Pacific. We also suggest and examine the impact of two additional factors (host market efficiency and FSA fragmentation). For empirical testing, we use U.S. industry‐ and firm‐level panel data and compare results from both datasets. We find that location‐bound FSAs and fragmented FSAs hinder expansion to other regions, while non‐location‐bound FSAs, host region complementary resources, and host market efficiencies facilitate expansion to other regions. Results from the two datasets are highly consistent.

Managerial summary

This study aims to provide guidelines for multinational enterprise (MNE) managers seeking to expand to areas beyond their home region. Some firm capabilities “travel” well to distant countries, to different cultures, and across economic levels, i.e., they are transferable. Others are not, i.e., they are more embedded in the firm's home‐country environment. Expansion of U.S. MNEs to Europe and Asia/Pacific is facilitated by (a) higher levels of intrafirm transfers, (b) access to complementary resources abroad, and (c) relative host market efficiencies. In contrast, such expansion is hindered by (a) higher productivity of labor at home relative to that abroad and (b) fragmentation of its product portfolio. This analysis is helpful for managers interested in building the systems, conditions, and mechanisms that increase the MNE's geographic reach. Copyright © 2017 Strategic Management Society.
Role of testosterone and Y chromosome genes for the masculinization of the human brain
Authors: Savic Ivanka , Frisen Louise , Manzouri Amirhossein , Nordenstrom Anna , Lindén Hirschberg Angelica
Published: January 2017

Women with complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) have a male (46,XY) karyotype but no functional androgen receptors. Their condition, therefore, offers a unique model for studying testosterone effects on cerebral sex dimorphism. We present MRI data from 16 women with CAIS and 32 male (46,XY) and 32 female (46,XX) controls. Methods: FreeSurfer software was employed to measure cortical thickness and subcortical structural volumes. Axonal connections, indexed by fractional anisotropy, (FA) were measured with diffusion tensor imaging, and functional connectivity with resting state fMRI. Results: Compared to men, CAIS women displayed a “female” pattern by having thicker parietal and occipital cortices, lower FA values in the right corticospinal, superior and inferior longitudinal tracts, and corpus callosum. Their functional connectivity from the amygdala to the medial prefrontal cortex, was stronger and amygdala‐connections to the motor cortex weaker than in control men. CAIS and control women also showed stronger posterior cingulate and precuneus connections in the default mode network. Thickness of the motor cortex, the caudate volume, and the FA in the callosal body followed, however, a “male” pattern. Conclusion: Altogether, these data suggest that testosterone modulates the microstructure of somatosensory and visual cortices and their axonal connections to the frontal cortex. Testosterone also influenced functional connections from the amygdala, whereas the motor cortex could, in agreement with our previous reports, be moderated by processes linked to X‐chromosome gene dosage. These data raise the question about other genetic factors masculinizing the human brain than the SRY gene and testosterone. Hum Brain Mapp 38:1801–1814, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CCBE1 mutation causing sclerosing cholangitis: Expanding the spectrum of lymphedema‐cholestasis syndrome
Authors: Viveiros André , Reiterer Marion , Schaefer Benedikt , Finkenstedt Armin , Schneeberger Stefan , Schwaighofer Hubert , Moser Patrizia , Sprenger Rudolf , Glodny Bernhard , Vogel Wolfgang , Janecke Andreas R. , Zoller Heinz
Published: January 2017

A 52‐year old patient presented with lymphedema, protein loosing enteropathy, and sclerosing cholangitis and was diagnosed with lymphedema cholestasis syndrome (LCS). Cholangioscopy revealed dilated lymphatic vessels obstructing the bile duct and compound heterozygosity for collagen and calcium‐binding epidermal growth factor domain‐containing protein 1 (CCBE1) mutations was identified defining a novel type of LCS. (Hepatology 2017;66:286–288).
Protective role of endogenous plasmalogens against hepatic steatosis and steatohepatitis in mice
Authors: Jang Jung Eun , Park Han‐Sol , Yoo Hyun Ju , Baek In‐Jeoung , Yoon Ji Eun , Ko Myoung Seok , Kim Ah‐Ram , Kim Hyoun Sik , Park Hye‐Sun , Lee Seung Eun , Kim Seung‐Whan , Kim Su Jung , Leem Jaechan , Kang Yu Mi , Jung Min Kyo , Pack Chan‐Gi , Kim Chong Jai , Sung Chang Ohk , Lee In‐Kyu , Park Joong‐Yeol , Fernández‐Checa José C. , Koh Eun Hee , Lee Ki‐Up
Published: January 2017

Free cholesterol (FC) accumulation in the liver is an important pathogenic mechanism of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Plasmalogens, key structural components of the cell membrane, act as endogenous antioxidants and are primarily synthesized in the liver. However, the role of hepatic plasmalogens in metabolic liver disease is unclear. In this study, we found that hepatic levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)‐containing plasmalogens, expression of glyceronephosphate O‐acyltransferase (Gnpat; the rate‐limiting enzyme in plasmalogen biosynthesis), and expression of Pparα were lower in mice with NASH caused by accumulation of FC in the liver. Cyclodextrin‐induced depletion of FC transactivated Δ‐6 desaturase by increasing sterol regulatory element‐binding protein 2 expression in cultured hepatocytes. DHA, the major product of Δ‐6 desaturase activation, activated GNPAT, thereby explaining the association between high hepatic FC and decreased Gnpat expression. Gnpat small interfering RNA treatment significantly decreased peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α (Pparα) expression in cultured hepatocytes. In addition to GNPAT, DHA activated PPARα and increased expression of Pparα and its target genes, suggesting that DHA in the DHA‐containing plasmalogens contributed to activation of PPARα. Accordingly, administration of the plasmalogen precursor, alkyl glycerol (AG), prevented hepatic steatosis and NASH through a PPARα‐dependent increase in fatty acid oxidation. Gnpat
+/– mice were more susceptible to hepatic lipid accumulation and less responsive to the preventive effect of fluvastatin on NASH development, suggesting that endogenous plasmalogens prevent hepatic steatosis and NASH. Conclusion: Increased hepatic FC in animals with NASH decreased plasmalogens, thereby sensitizing animals to hepatocyte injury and NASH. Our findings uncover a novel link between hepatic FC and plasmalogen homeostasis through GNPAT regulation. Further study of AG or other agents that increase hepatic plasmalogen levels may identify novel therapeutic strategies against NASH. (Hepatology 2017;66:416–431).
The PNPLA3 I148M variant modulates the fibrogenic phenotype of human hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Bruschi Francesca Virginia , Claudel Thierry , Tardelli Matteo , Caligiuri Alessandra , Stulnig Thomas M. , Marra Fabio , Trauner Michael
Published: January 2017

The genetic polymorphism I148M of patatin‐like phospholipase domain–containing 3 (PNPLA3) is robustly associated with hepatic steatosis and its progression to steatohepatitis, fibrosis, and cancer. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are key players in the development of liver fibrosis, but the role of PNPLA3 and its variant I148M in this process is poorly understood. Here we analyzed the expression of PNPLA3 during human HSC activation and thereby explored how a PNPLA3 variant impacts hepatic fibrogenesis. We show that expression of PNPLA3 gene and protein increases during the early phases of activation and remains elevated in fully activated HSCs (P < 0.01). Knockdown of PNPLA3 significantly decreases the profibrogenic protein alpha‐smooth muscle actin (P < 0.05). Primary human I148M HSCs displayed significantly higher expression and release of proinflammatory cytokines, such as chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 5 (P < 0.01) and granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (P < 0.001), thus contributing to migration of immune cells (P < 0.05). Primary I148M HSCs showed reduced retinol (P < 0.001) but higher lipid droplet content (P < 0.001). In line with this, LX‐2 cells stably overexpressing I148M showed augmented proliferation and migration, lower retinol, and abolished retinoid X receptor/retinoid A receptor transcriptional activities but more lipid droplets. Knockdown of I148M PNPLA3 (P < 0.001) also reduces chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 5 and collagen1α1 expression (P < 0.05). Notably, I148M cells display reduced peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor gamma transcriptional activity, and this effect was attributed to increased c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, thereby inhibiting peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor gamma through serine 84 phosphorylation and promoting activator protein 1 transcription. Conversely, the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase inhibitor SP600125 and the peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor gamma agonist rosiglitazone decreased activator protein 1 promoter activity. Conclusions: These data indicate that PNPLA3 is required for HSC activation and that its genetic variant I148M potentiates the profibrogenic features of HSCs, providing a molecular mechanism for the higher risk of progression and severity of liver diseases conferred to patients carrying the I148M variant. (Hepatology 2017;65:1875‐1890).
A hospital‐based study of intimate partner violence during pregnancy
Authors: Jain Sandhya , Varshney Khushboo , Vaid Neelam B. , Guleria Kiran , Vaid Keya , Sharma Neha
Published: January 2017

Objective

To determine the prevalence and types of intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy, factors linked with IPV, and effects of IPV on maternal‐fetal outcomes.

Methods

In a prospective observational study at a tertiary care hospital in Delhi, India, 400 women at 20–28 weeks of pregnancy were screened for IPV between December 2013 and April 2015. The women completed a detailed questionnaire and were followed up until delivery.

Results

Overall, 49 (12.3%) women experienced IPV during pregnancy. The most prevalent type of IPV was emotional (43/400 [10.7%]), followed by physical (40/400 [10.0%]) and sexual (7/400 [1.8%]). The most prevalent factor triggering IPV was intimate partner's desire for a son (17/49 [34.7%]). Women and their intimate partners were older in the IPV group than in the control group, and duration of marriage was longer (P<0.05 for all). Multigravidity, lower socioeconomic status, low education level of intimate partner, and partners’ addiction were more common in the IPV group (P<0.05 for all). Obstetric outcomes were similar in both groups. Depression was diagnosed in 19 (46.3%) women affected by IPV.

Conclusion

IPV was documented in approximately 12% of participants. Population‐based surveys need to be done to investigate further.
Spontaneous Rupture of Uterus in Second Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Jafari Kianoosh , Ruiz Gustavo , Cooperman Norman R. , Vargas Juan
Published: January 2017

Jafari, K., Ruiz, G., Cooperman, N. R. and Vargas, J. (Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cook County Hospital, Chicago, Ill. and Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Health Sciences/The Chicago Medical School, Chicago, Ill., USA). Spontaneous rupture of uterus in second trimester of pregnancy.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 13: 219–221, 1975.

Spontaneous rupture of a pregnant uterus in the second trimester is a rare condition. Most reported cases of ruptured uteri have occurred in the third trimester. We are adding 2 cases of second trimester uterine rupture to the literature, one due to placenta ac‐creta and the other with no demonstrable cause.
Effect of Isoxuprine on Uteroplacental Blood Flow in Normal and Hypertensive Patients during the Last Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Suonio S. , Jalkanen M. , Olkkonen H. , Castrén O.
Published: January 2017

Suonio, S., Jalkanen, M., Olkkonen, H. & Castrén, O. (Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Central Hospital, Kuopio, Finland). Effect of isoxu‐prine on uteroplacental blood flow in normal and hypertensive patients during the last trimester of pregnancy.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 13: 225–228, 1975.

The uteroplacental blood flow was evaluated in 15 normal and 12 hypertensive patients in late pregnancy using the 99mTc accumulation method before and after a single i.m. dose of 5 mg of isoxuprine. In the group of normal patients there was a statistically significant 35 per cent mean increase in the accumulation rate, but in the group of hypertensive patients no significant change was found. Other haemodynamic variables measured were the maternal heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressures. There was a statistically significant increase in the heart rate in both patient groups after medication. No significant changes were observed in systolic pressure. In diastolic pressure a significant fall was found in normal, but not in hypertensive patients. According to the results, the therapeutically positive maternal vascular response to isoxuprine does not take place in pregnancy complicated by hypertensive disease.
Practicability of Ultrasonography for Assessing Fetal Age and Weight in Early Pregnancy
Authors: Mercer Jack P. , Brenner William E. , Bolan Jean C. , Dingfelder James R. , Edelman David A. , Staurovsky Linda G.
Published: January 2017

Mercer, J. P., Brenner, W. E., Bolan, J. C., Dingfelder, J. R., Edelman, D. A. and Staurovsky, L. G. (Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, and International Fertility Research Program, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA). Practicability of ultrasonography for assessing fetal age and weight in early pregnancy.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 14: 401–406, 1976.

This study was conducted to evaluate (1) the feasibility and accuracy of the B‐Scan technique for measuring biparietal diameter (BPD) in utero, (2) the accuracy of the B‐Scan technique for predicting fetal age and weight, and (3) parameters of fetal growth in pregnancies of less than 21 weeks’ gestation. Forty‐one subjects underwent diagnostic ultrasonography before induction of therapeutic abortion with Prostaglandin F2α. Following abortion, fetal crown‐to‐rump length (CRL), crown‐to‐heel length (CHL), BPD, and fetal weight were measured directly. After 13 menstrual weeks’ gestation the BPD could be accurately measured by ultrasound. The relationship of BPD to gestational age and fetal weight and the indices of fetal growth as measured by the CRL and CHL were established. It is concluded that ultrasound is a useful adjuvant to clinical assessment of fetal age and weight in patients from 13 to 21 menstrual weeks’ gestation.
A Technique for the Induction of Labor by the Extraovular Administration of Prostaglandin F2α
Authors: Ishikawa Yoshitsugu , Uneki Katsumi , Fukui Hideki , Futakawa Kiyoshi , Ogawa Tatsuhiro
Published: January 2017

Ishikawa, Y., Uneki, K., Fukui, H., Futakawa, K. and Ogawa, T. (Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kobe Red Cross Hospital, Kobe, Hyogo 650, Japan). A technique for the induction of labor by the extraovular administration of prostaglandin F2α.

Int J Gynaecol Obstet 14: 439–444, 1976.

Prostaglandin F2α (PG F2α) was administered to pregnant women at a dosage of 50 μg or 100 μg by extraovular route around the expected time of childbirth in order to induce labor. (1) PG F2α 50 μg or 100 μg dissolved in 10ml of physiological saline solution was infused by extraovular administration through the cervical canal of the uterus with the use of Nelaton catheter No. 9. The catheter was then immediately withdrawn and the patient allowed to return home. (2) Instillation of 10ml of physiological saline solution was carried out for control purposes. (3) Those who reported labor contractions within 24 hours after the infusion were regarded as cases of excellent response, and those who reported labor contractions more than 24 hours after the infusion, or those who showed dilatation and improvement in effacement of the uterine cervical canal though without the occurrence of labor contractions were deemed to be cases of good response. The overall positive response rate (excellent plus good) was 78.9% for Primiparae and 85.7% for multiparae in the group receiving 50 μg and 89.5% for primiparae and 100% for multiparae in the group receiving 100 μg. (4) Labor contractions were induced at a rate of almost 100% in those who showed dilatation of the cervical canal of the uterus to the extent of 3 cm or more and effacement to the extent of 50% or more. (5) It is advisable to perform reinfusion of PG F2α or instillation of PG F2α as a post‐treatment in patients with good responses. (6) The infusion of PG F2α is effective for the induction of labor in older Primiparae, cases of breech presentation and suspected cases of CPD. (7) There were some cases of enhanced response when PG F2αwas given as posttreatment.
Microbiology of the Female Genital Tract during Pregnancy and Parturition
Authors: Naderi Shahrokh , Gettner Seyedeh , Zeighami Elaine , Khairandish M. Hossein
Published: January 2017

To study the pattern of vaginal flora during pregnancy and parturition, high vaginal cultures were taken from three groups of women: (1) cultures were taken from 42 pregnant women during routine antenatal visits; (2) in 111 women admitted in labour, vaginal cultures were obtained upon admission, prior to delivery, just after completion of delivery and on the first and second postpartum day, and; (3) cultures were obtained from 55 normal non‐pregnant women. The type of microbial inhabitants of the female genital tract in the antepartum, intrapartum and postpartum periods did not differ from the vaginal flora found in the normal non‐pregnant condition. Pathogenic and opportunist organisms increased in frequency during labour and through the postpartum period. Lactobacillus, fungi and Staph. albus were the only organisms showing a decrease during the intrapartum and postpartum period. They were also the only organisms which were more frequently cultured in pregnant than in non‐pregnant women. The pattern of change in the presence of organisms in the vagina was analysed according to length of labour. Length of labour appeared to have little effect on the probability of any organism gaining entrance into the vagina.
Changes in Menstrual Cycle Length and Regularity After Use of Oral Contraceptives
Authors: Taylor Robert N. , Berger Gary S. , Treloar Alan E.
Published: January 2017

This is an analysis of changes in menstrual cycle length and regularity occurring for a group of 211 women who had discontinued use of oral contraceptives. The analysis is based on prospectively recorded histories from the Menstruation and Reproduction History Program. Post‐pill menstrual cycle length and regularity are compared with pre‐pill averages. In the first post‐pill cycle, there was an average increase of 6 days in cycle length. In subsequent cycles, however, cycle length and regularity were comparable to pre‐pill norms in most cases.
The Benefit of Lactation Amenorrhea as a Contraceptive
Authors: Hefnawi F. , Ismail H. , Younis N. , El‐Sheika Z. , Badraoui M. H. H.
Published: January 2017

A group of 148 lactating women who delivered normally at El‐Galaa Hospital, Cairo, were followed up monthly for 1 year to study the pattern of lactation amenorrhea, the return of menstruation and ovulation, and the incidence of pregnancy. By the end of the sixth week postpartum, only 1.3% of the women had begun menstruating; the percentage gradually increased to 60.2% by the end of the first year. The amount of blood loss and the duration of menstruation increased gradually until the fourth postpartum menstrual period. Ovulation had occurred in 58.1% and pregnancy in 26.1% of all cases at the end of the 12th postpartum month. Among menstruating, lactating mothers, ovulation occurred in 86.5% and pregnancy in 32.6%, while in amenorrheic, lactating mothers only 6.1% had become pregnant at 1 year postpartum.
Postoperative Staging of Vulvar Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Friedrich Eduard G. , diPaola Guillermo R.
Published: January 2017

The clinical staging of malignant disease is necessary before initiating nonsurgical therapy. Unfortunately, such staging does not help answer critical questions about the course and natural history of the cancerous process. Answers to these questions are crucial to the planning of future therapeutic programs. A postoperative staging system, amenable to computer analysis, that can be retrospectively applied to a large series of invasive squamous cell carcinomas of the vulva is presented. A review of the experience of a large oncologic service at the University of Buenos Aires, which used this new classification system, shows the system's applicability. Such a system could, in time, provide answers to many questions concerning invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva.
Alpha‐Fetoprotein Concentration in Maternal Serum and Abortion via VA and PGF2α
Authors: Sande H. A. , Fagerhol M.
Published: January 2017

Most women undergoing abortion by vacuum aspiration (VA), extraamniotic prostaglandin instillation or vaginal prostaglandin suppositories showed a significant rise in their serum alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) concentrations during the procedure. We suggest this rise is due to a fetomaternal hemorrhage during the abortion procedure. Few women undergoing VA before 9 weeks' gestation showed this rise in serum AFP. To avoid fetomaternal hemorrhage during pregnancy termination, we recommend abortion by VA in early pregnancy.
Menstrual Regulation in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Ladipo O. A. , Ojo O. A. , James Sylvia , Stewart Karen Robb
Published: January 2017

Menstrual regulation (MR) (i.e., vacuum aspiration of the uterus with a small diameter, flexible cannula before pregnancy can be determined by a conventional pregnancy test) has been proven safe and effective in many clinics around the world. The present study, which we believe is the first such study of MR in Subsaharan Africa, shows that, for women in an urban African setting, MR is an acceptable backup for other contraceptive methods. Data on 507 MR patients treated at the University College Hospital in Ibadan, Nigeria, between January 1974 and April 1976, showed that the procedure was both safe and effective for 93.4% of the study subjects: there was an overall complication rate of 3.4% and MR failed in seven cases (3.2%). Data also showed that MR is an effective method of recruiting new contraceptive acceptors, as well as an effective back‐up procedure in case of contraceptive failure.
Coarctation of the Umbilical Cord: A Cause of Intrauterine Fetal Death
Authors: Fortuna J. F. Tavares , Pratas M. Lourdes
Published: January 2017

This article presents 16 cases of coarctation of the umbilical cord, resulting in fetal death in utero in pregnant women of more than 6 months' gestation. Coarctation of the umbilical cord can occur in any phase of the gestational period and is not related to parity. The stricture of the cord is usually accompanied by torsion and characterized by a fibrosis of the Wharton's jelly and a thickening of the vascular walls which obstructs the fetoplacental circulation, leading to anoxia and fetal death. Although this entity must occur frequently, it is not often reported by obstetricians because the umbilical cord is not carefully examined in all cases of stillbirth.
Evaluation of 496 Menstrual Regulation and Abortion Patients in Calcutta
Authors: Lilaram D. , Basu S. , Khan P. K. , Dasgupta S.
Published: January 2017

From March to December 1975, 496 patients were studied to compare the safety and effectiveness of menstrual regulation (MR) performed with a Karman hand syringe and first trimester abortion performed with an electric vacuum aspirator. All procedures were done on an outpatient basis. The complication rate for the MR patients was significantly lower than that for the other first trimester abortion patients. Study results indicate that MR with the Karman syringe is a safer, simpler and less costly procedure than first trimester abortion with the electric vacuum aspirator. Further research and study are necessary to determine the effect of the initial and repeat MR procedures on women's menstrual patterns and future pregnancies, including any subsequent prematurity, stillbirths and Rh immunization.
Treating Dysmenorrhea with Anti‐inflammatory Agents: A Double‐Blind Trial With Naproxen Sodium
Authors: Sande H. A. , Salvesen T. , Izu A.
Published: January 2017

Thirty‐two dysmenorrheic patients participated in a double‐blind trial of naproxen sodium for three consecutive menstrual cycles. The women were divided into two groups: 15 women were given naproxen sodium (the sodium salt of d‐2‐(6‐methoxy‐2‐naphthyl) propionic acid) and 17 women received placebo tablets. The women were prescribed two tablets (550 mg) at the first sign of menstrual pain and one tablet (275 mg) thereafter every six hours, as required. There were no significant differences between the two groups in physical characteristics, obstetric and gynecologic histories, including the character of dysmenorrhea and pretreatment pain intensity scores (p = 0.7). Following intake of the drug or placebo, the participants rated the relief provided by the medication with a six‐point scoring system. When the scores for pain relief were tallied for the three treatment cycles, the naproxen sodium group averaged 13.7 ± 0.65 standard error, while the placebo group averaged 8.8 ± 0.95 standard error out of a possible maximum relief score of 18. The difference between the two groups was statistically significant at p = 0.0004. Few patients reported side effects.
Maternity Record: Initial Report on a National Experience (Colombia)
Authors: Lopez‐Escobar Guillermo , Fortney Judith A. , Riano‐Gamboa German , Daza Luis
Published: January 2017

The International Fertility Research Program, in cooperation with the Government of Colombia, drew a random sample of urban hospitals in which obstetric deliveries take place. Data were collected on a sample of the deliveries. Hospitals were divided into six types: university, university maternity, social security and three sizes of general hospitals. These groups of hospitals are compared with respect to the proportion of high‐risk patients admitted, intervention rates and perinatal mortality rates.
The Role of Traditional Birth Attendants in Family Planning Programs in Southeast Asia
Authors: Peng J. Y.
Published: January 2017

The training and utilization of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in maternal and child health and family planning programs in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Malaysia are discussed. Special efforts to organize and train TBAs for family planning in Malaysia are examined in detail. Import factors for successful utilization of TBAs include: (a) definite assignment of functions and tasks, (b) organization of good operational steps and (c) implementation of good supervisory activities.
Genital Tumor as a Presenting Symptom of Renal Hypernephroma: A Case Report
Authors: Levin Samuel , Glezerman Marek , Meisner Israel , Seidel Liliana , Beyar Hayim
Published: January 2017

A case of hypernephroma is presented in which the initial finding was heavy bleeding from a vaginal tumor. Fewer than 90 cases of genital metastases in males or females have previously been reported.
One Year's Experience with the Ypsilon‐Y IUD
Authors: Batár István , Thomas Michael N.
Published: January 2017

In 1975, a two‐year study designed to test the new Ypsilon IUD was initiated by the Family Planning Center (Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University), Debrecen, Hungary. From November 1975 through September 1976, Ypsilon‐Y intrauterine devices (IUDs) were inserted in 300 women who had not previously used IUDs. The control group consisted of 300 Lippes Loop D users, all of whom were also first‐time IUD users. The selection was made by randomization. After one year, the relevant rates (pregnancy, expulsion, medical removals) for the study group were: 3.9, 10.4 and 7.8, respectively. The corresponding values for the Lippes Loop D group were: 2.8, 5.7 and 7.8 per 100 women. Although the pregnancy rate for the control population was lower, the difference was not statistically significant. The frequency of expulsion in the Ypsilon‐Y users was higher than that of the Lippes Loop D acceptors, but the difference was not statistically significant at the 0.05 level. The medical removal rates were almost the same in both groups. The total number of bleeding, pain and dysmenorrheic complaints in the two groups were also compared and showed that the Ypsilon‐Y users did not report complaints as often as did the women wearing the Lippes Loop D. The difference was statistically significant. The relevant termination rates of the Ypsilon‐Y were higher than those for the Lippes Loop D; however, the lower frequency of complaints in the study group suggests that the shape of the Y may be more suitable for the uterine cavity than the Loop D.
Effects of Bilateral Ligation of the Uterine and Ovarian Vessels in Dogs
Authors: O'Leary James A.
Published: January 2017

Devascularization of the nonpregnant uterus and oviducts by ligation of both uterine and both ovarian arteries was studied in 48 mongrel dogs. There were no postoperative complications or morbidity. At the time of the second laparotomy, the tissues appeared to be viable. This report suggests that bilateral uterine and ovarian artery ligation is without hazard. Whether this observation can be applied to the pregnant human uterus remains to be proven.
Cardiac Failure in Pregnant Northern Nigerian Women
Authors: Abengowe C. U. , Das C. K. , Siddique A. K.
Published: January 2017

Thirty‐nine gravidae with congestive cardiac failure and ten pregnant patients with acute pulmonary edema treated at the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Kaduna, Nigeria, over a five‐year period are presented. Congestive cardiac failure occurred more frequently in the postnatal period, and parity and socioeconomic class were not significantly related to cardiac failure. Maternal mortality was low in spite of all patients being in functional grades III and IV. Idiopathic cardiomegaly and chronic rheumatic heart disease were the most common underlying causes of heart failure in pregnancy. The dominant valvular lesion in the patients with rheumatic heart disease was mitral incompetence.
A Simple Technique to Increase Success Rate of Artificial Insemination
Authors: Makler Amnon
Published: January 2017

A simple technique to increase the success rate of artificial insemination is described: most of the cervical mucus is aspirated prior to the endocervical injection of the husband's or donor's semen. The bulk of seminal fluid is kept in place; its back flow into the vagina is prevented by gentle pressing of the syringe by the patient. Sixty‐six women underwent treatment by this technique. The pregnancy rate was significantly higher, and fewer cycles of treatment per pregnancy were required, as compared to 65 women inseminated by simple endocervical injection. No side effects except mild transitory abdominal pain were encountered.
A Comparison of the Lippes Loop and Two Copper‐Bearing Intrauterine Devices
Authors: Cole Lynda P. , Edelman David A.
Published: January 2017

A review of published studies and studies conducted through the International Fertility Research Program on the Lippes Loop D, TCu and Cu‐7 shows that none of the three devices evaluated is better with respect to continuation and all types of event rates. There is a trend toward lower expulsion rates for the copper‐bearing IUDs, but other factors such as the cost of devices and the need for replacement must be considered in determining the merits of the devices for large‐scale programs.
Bacteriologic Study of IUDs Removed from Nigerian Igbo Women
Authors: Chukudebelu W. O.
Published: January 2017

Intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) removed from 50 Igbo women were subjected to bacteriologic studies. High vaginal swabs from the women were cultured simultaneously. In 49 of the 50 IUDs, the culture was negative. The author concludes that the African IUD wearer, like her Caucasian peer, can safely combat any bacterial nidus introduced during device insertion.
The Role of Surgery in the Treatment of Trophoblastic Disease
Authors: Ilancheran A. , Ratnam S. S.
Published: January 2017

Over 600 of the 850 cases of gestational trophoblastic disease that have been treated in our department during the last 20 years were reviewed to determine the role of surgery in the management of the disease. The surgical procedures employed included hysterectomy, both as a prophylactic and definitive procedure, thoracotomy, excision of vaginal nodules and neurosurgical removal of cerebral secondaries. It was found that removal of a large tumor mass improved the response to subsequent chemotherapy. Removal of vaginal nodules usually was not necessary unless there was hemorrhage. Chemotherapy with precise hormonal monitoring remains the most important means of treating choriocarcinoma.
A New Uterine Manipulator for Gynecologic Laparoscopy
Authors: De Grandi P.
Published: January 2017

The various disadvantages of the uterine manipulators currently used for gynecologic laparoscopy are reviewed. A new, reliable and atraumatic manipulator is presented.
Complete Inversion of the Urinary Bladder Through a Vesicovaginal Fistula
Authors: Mukherjee Kalyani , Goswami Bimal
Published: January 2017

This is the case of an Indian woman who was hospitalized after a diagnosis of chronic inversion of the uterus with a vesicovaginal fistula. She suffered from urinary incontinence for 40 years, the condition having developed following a difficult labor. Ultimately, she proved to have a complete inversion of the bladder through a vesicovaginal fistula.
Use‐Effectiveness of Standard‐Dose and Low‐Dose Oral Contraceptives in Dacca
Authors: Measham Anthony R. , Khan Atiqur R. , Measham Carol D. , Khanum Ferdousi , Akbar Jalaluddin
Published: January 2017

Five hundred women accepting oral contraceptives at an urban clinic were alternately prescribed standard‐dose (50 μg of estrogen) or low‐dose (30 μg of estrogen) combined pills. Life‐table continuation rates at 12 months were approximately 40% for both groups, with no significant differences between or within the two groups after controlling for sociodemographic variables and nutritional status. Approximately three fifths of those who discontinued using both formulations cited medical reasons, especially dizziness. The low‐dose oral contraceptive appeared to be as acceptable to these urban Bangladeshi women as the higher‐dose pill.
A Simple and Highly Sensitive Method for Quantitative Detection of Methyl Paraben and Phenol in Cosmetics Using Derivative Spectrophotometry and Multivariate Chemometric Techniques
Authors: Esteki Mahnaz , Nouroozi Siavash , Amanifar Setareh , Shahsavari Zahra
Published: January 2017

This paper presents a simple and sensitive method for the simultaneous determination of methyl paraben (MP) and phenol (PO) based on the application of successive projections algorithm (SPA) to the first derivative spectra (200–350 nm). SPA is used for variables selection in order to obtain multiple linear regression (MLR) models using a small subset of wavelengths. The starting vector and the number of variables are optimized and the best variables are selected according to the sequence of projection operations on the spectral data matrix of the calibration set. Principal component regression and partial least squares models are also developed for comparison. The best models are found to be SPA‐MLR using seven wavelengths from the first‐derivative spectra with a root‐mean‐square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.08 for MP and eight wavelengths with RMSEP of 0.31 for the determination of PO. The accuracy of the proposed method is confirmed by spiked recovery test on cosmetic samples with satisfactory results (86–110%). Analysis results of the cosmetic samples are also statistically compared with those obtained from the HPLC method, showing no significant difference regarding accuracy and precision. The results indicate the potential of SPA‐MLR and derivative spectrophotometry for rapid and sensitive analysis of cosmetic samples.
A silicon‐based dual‐material double‐gate tunnel field‐effect transistor with optimized performance
Authors: Noor Samantha Lubaba , Safa Samia , Khan Md. Ziaur Rahman
Published: January 2017

The work focuses on optimizing the device parameters of a Si‐based dual‐material double‐gate tunnel field‐effect transistor for maximizing its efficiency. The efficiency is measured in terms of drain current, subthreshold swing, ION/IOFF ratio, and electron concentration in Si body. A numerical model of dual‐material double‐gate tunnel field‐effect transistor is developed using Silvaco, Atlas. Simulations are performed in Technology Computer Aided Design (TCAD) using Kane's band‐to‐band tunneling model. Based on the simulation results, optimum values of gate workfunctions, doping levels in different regions, ratio of gate lengths, and Si body thickness are suggested for the device. The proposed optimized device shows subthreshold swing of 15 − 41mV/dec, on current of 1.4 × 10 − 4A/μm and ION/IOFF ratio on the order of 1012.
Stationarity of major flood frequencies and heights on the Ba River, Fiji, over a 122‐year record
Authors: McAneney John , van den Honert Robin , Yeo Stephen
Published: January 2017

The economic impact of natural disasters on developing economies can be severe with the recovery diverting scarce funds that might otherwise be targeted at development projects and stimulating the need for international aid. In view of the likely sensitivity of low‐lying Pacific Islands to anticipated changes in climate, a 122‐year record of major flooding depths at the Rarawai Sugar Mill on the Ba River in the northwest of the Fijian Island of Viti Levu is analysed. Reconstructed largely from archived correspondence of the Colonial Sugar Refining Company, the time series comprises simple measurements of height above the Mill floor. It exhibits no statistically significant trends in either frequency or flood heights, once the latter have been adjusted for average relative sea‐level rise. This is despite persistent warming of air temperatures as characterized in other studies. There is a strong dependence of frequency (but not magnitude) upon El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phase, with many more floods in La Niña phases. The analysis of this long‐term data series illustrates the difficulty of detecting a global climate change signal from hazard data, even given a consistent measurement methodology (cf HURDAT2 record of North Atlantic hurricanes) and warns of the strong dependence of any statistical significance upon choices of start and end dates of the analysis.
Sex differences in tendon structure and function
Authors: Sarver Dylan C. , Kharaz Yalda Ashraf , Sugg Kristoffer B. , Gumucio Jonathan P. , Comerford Eithne , Mendias Christopher L.
Published: January 2017

Tendons play a critical role in the transmission of forces between muscles and bones, and chronic tendon injuries and diseases are among the leading causes of musculoskeletal disability. Little is known about sex‐based differences in tendon structure and function. Our objective was to evaluate the mechanical properties, biochemical composition, transcriptome, and cellular activity of plantarflexor tendons from 4 month old male and female C57BL/6 mice using in vitro biomechanics, mass spectrometry‐based proteomics, genome‐wide expression profiling, and cell culture techniques. While the Achilles tendons of male mice were approximately 6% larger than female mice (p < 0.05), the cell density of female mice was around 19% greater than males (p < 0.05). No significant differences in mechanical properties (p > 0.05) of plantaris tendons were observed. Mass spectrometry proteomics analysis revealed no significant difference between sexes in the abundance of major extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as collagen types I (p = 0.30) and III (p = 0.68), but female mice had approximately twofold elevations (p < 0.05) in less abundant ECM proteins such as fibronectin, periostin, and tenascin C. The transcriptome of male and female tendons differed by only 1%. In vitro, neither the sex of the serum that fibroblasts were cultured in, nor the sex of the ECM in which they were embedded, had profound effects on the expression of collagen and cell proliferation genes. Our results indicate that while male mice expectedly had larger tendons, male and female tendons have very similar mechanical properties and biochemical composition, with small increases in some ECM proteins and proteoglycans evident in female tendons. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 35:2117–2126, 2017.
Deer leather: analysis of the microstructure affecting pebble
Authors: Wells Hannah C , Sizeland Katie H , Cooper Sue M , Kirby Nigel , Hawley Adrian , Mudie Stephen , Haverkamp Richard G
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND

Deer leather has a characteristic pattern, referred to as ‘pebble’, which is accorded such importance that a lack of it renders a leather defective. Synchrotron‐based small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS), ultrasonic imaging, scanning electron microscopy, and tear tests were used to investigate the structural characteristics of well‐pebbled and poorly pebbled cervine leathers.

RESULTS

Poorly pebbled leather has a less open structure in the upper grain region than well‐pebbled leather. The orientation index (OI) of leather with a poor pebble is less than that of the well‐pebbled leather, particularly in the corium. The tear strength is also less for the poorly pebbled leather.

CONCLUSIONS

The differences in structure between well‐ and poorly pebbled cervine leathers are not the same as the structural differences between tight and loose bovine leathers, to which they are sometimes compared. On the contrary, good pebble may reflect an internal structure similar to that of looseness. It is hoped that methods to prevent a reduction in pebbling during the processing of cervine leather may be developed by applying this knowledge of cervine leather's structural characteristics. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Stable spline deconvolution for dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI
Authors: Peruzzo Denis , Castellaro Marco , Pillonetto Gianluigi , Bertoldo Alessandra
Published: January 2017

Purpose

To present the stable spline (SS) deconvolution method for the quantification of the cerebral blood flow (CBF) from dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI.

Methods

The SS method was compared with both the block‐circulant singular value decomposition (oSVD) and nonlinear stochastic regularization (NSR) methods. oSVD is one of the most popular deconvolution methods in dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI (DSC‐MRI). NSR is an alternative approach that we proposed previously. The three methods were compared using simulated data and two clinical data sets.

Results

The SS method correctly reconstructed the dispersed residue function and its peak in presence of dispersion, regardless of the delay. In absence of dispersion, SS performs similarly to oSVD and does not correctly reconstruct the residue function and its peak. SS and NSR better differentiate healthy and pathologic CBF values compared with oSVD in all simulated conditions. Using acquired data, SS and NSR provide more clinically plausible and physiological estimates of the residue function and CBF maps compared with oSVD.

Conclusion

The SS method overcomes some of the limitations of oSVD, such as unphysiological estimates of the residue function and NSR, the latter of which is too computationally expensive to be applied to large data sets. Thus, the SS method is a valuable alternative for CBF quantification using DSC‐MRI data. Magn Reson Med 78:1801–1811, 2017. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Biological Kinship, Postmarital Residence and the Emergence of Cemetery Formalisation at Prehistoric Marathon
Authors: Prevedorou E. , Stojanowski C. M.
Published: January 2017

This paper examines the role of kinship and postmarital residence in the emergence of organised cemeteries during the transition from the Final Neolithic to the Early Bronze Age at Marathon, Attica. Focusing on the cemetery of Tsepi, we performed intra‐cemetery biodistance analysis to test whether biological relatedness structured spatial organisation of tombs, and whether postmarital residence was matrilocal or patrilocal. Dental metric, dental morphological and cranial non‐metric data were collected from 293 individuals and subjected to multivariate analysis (principal component analysis, Euclidean distance ordination via multidimensional scaling), binomial probability calculations, Ripley's K analysis and determinant ratio analysis. Results indicated phenotypic similarity among some tomb co‐interments; however, outliers suggested that within‐tomb burial depended on a variety of factors that could include affinal, fictive or practical kinship. There was strong evidence for phenotypic patterning by tomb row, indicating that cemetery structure at Tsepi was organised according to biological lineages. This was especially evident for females. Male phenotypic variation was higher than that of females, though not significantly so. The results of intra‐cemetery biodistance analysis at Tsepi reveal a complex mortuary programme that emphasised biological kinship within an exogamous and likely matrilocal system of mate exchange. When considered in light of ethnographic evidence, the practice of male exogamy may correlate with the coastal location of the community and the maritime activities that structured the economy during the emergence of social complexity in the region. This paper illustrates the potential of biodistance analyses for elucidating aspects of social life in the Aegean. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.