bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responsiveness of eyes with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy with choroidal hyperpermeability to intravitreal ranibizumab
Authors: Sonoda Shozo , Sakamoto Taiji , Otsuka Hiroki , Yoshinaga Narimasa , Yamashita Toshifumi , Ki-I Yuya , Okubo Akiko , Yamashita Takehiro , Arimura Noboru
Published: August 2013

Background

To determine the role played by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) based on an interventional immunology theory.

Methods

Eyes with PCV were divided in a masked fashion into those with choroidal hyperpermeability (HP group) and those with normal choroidal permeability (NP group) based on the indocyanine green angiograms. The inter-rater agreement rate was evaluated using Fleiss’ kappa. Patients were treated by intravitreal ranibizumab (IVB). The central choroidal thickness and central foveal thickness (CFT) at the baseline and 7 days after the treatment were measured by optical coherence tomography.

Results

Among the 57 consecutive eyes diagnosed with PCV, 42 eyes of 42 patients met the inclusion criteria (21 eyes/HP group vs 21 eyes /NP group). Central choroidal thickness in HP group was significantly thicker than that in the NP group (P < .001, Mann–Whitney U test). The inter-rater agreement was high with a Fleiss’ kappa = 0.95, P < .0001. The percentage reduction in the CFT in HP group (14.0%) was significantly less than that in NP group (20.4%; P = .013, Mann–Whitney U test).

Conclusions

Eyes with PCV that are associated with choroidal hyper-permeability may not be strongly associated with VEGF-related pathology, and may not respond favorably to anti-VEGF monotherapy.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis - a systematic review on methodology for the collection of epidemiological data
Authors: Kaunisto Jaana , Salomaa Eija-Riitta , Hodgson Ulla , Kaarteenaho Riitta , Myllärniemi Marjukka
Published: August 2013

Background

Recent studies suggest that the incidence of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is rising. Accurate epidemiological data on IPF, however, are sparse and the results of previous studies are contradictory. This study was undertaken to gain insight into the various methods used in the epidemiological research of IPF, and to get accurate and comparable data on these different methodologies.

Methods

A systematic database search was performed in order to identify all epidemiological studies on IPF after the previous guidelines for diagnosis and treatment were published in 2000. Medline (via Pubmed), Science Sitation Index (via Web of Science) and Embase databases were searched for original epidemiological articles published in English in international peer-reviewed journals starting from 2001. After pre-screening and a full-text review, 13 articles were accepted for data abstraction.

Results

Three different methodologies of epidemiological studies were most commonly used, namely: 1) national registry databases, 2) questionnaire-based studies, and 3) analysis of the health care system’s own registry databases. The overall prevalence and incidence of IPF varied in these studies between 0.5–27.9/100,000 and 0.22–8.8/100,000, respectively. According to four studies the mortality and incidence of IPF are rising.

Conclusions

We conclude that there are numerous ways to execute epidemiological research in the field of IPF. This review offers the possibility to compare the different methodologies that have been used, and this information could form a basis for future studies investigating the prevalence and incidence of IPF.
The interventional therapy for diabetic peripheral artery disease
Authors: Sun Nian-feng , Tian Ai-ling , Tian Yu-ling , Hu San-yuan , Xu Li
Published: August 2013

Background

Diabetic peripheral arterial disease is the main cause of lower limb amputation in patients with diabetes. To summarize the technique and experiences and evaluate the clinical effects of blood vessel intervention operation on diabetic peripheral artery disease.

Methods

81 patients with diabetic peripheral artery disease from October 2007 to September 2011, 81 cases of the observation group were treated by balloon PTA. By adopting the Seldinger puncture technology, intubation was placed into a cobra catheter or a pig tail artery catheter and directed to the ipsilateral lower extremity artery. A guidewire was used to reach the lesion part of patients and a long balloon with a diameter of 4–6 mm was used to expand the artery with a pressure of 6–10 atm.

Results

81 patients in the observation group received the PTA surgery. The technical succesful rate was 100%, no complication happened. The skin temperature increased after treatment. The blood supply improved significantly. The pulsation of the foot dorsal artery was strengthened. The numbness and pain symptoms were moderated significantly. We observed better results in the observation group in lower limb vessel diameter and foot ulceration healing. None of the patients received amputation surgery. Its short-term effects were satisfactory.

Conclusion

PTA is a feasible technique for diabetic peripheral artery disease. It has great clinical significance in treating diabetic peripheral arterial disease. Although its short-term effects is satisfactory, the long-term effects is necessary for follow up.
Promoting universal financial protection: evidence from the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) in Gujarat, India
Authors: Devadasan Narayanan , Seshadri Tanya , Trivedi Mayur , Criel Bart
Published: August 2013

Background

India’s health expenditure is met mostly by households through out-of-pocket (OOP) payments at the time of illness. To protect poor families, the Indian government launched a national health insurance scheme (RSBY). Those below the national poverty line (BPL) are eligible to join the RSBY. The premium is heavily subsidised by the government. The enrolled members receive a card and can avail of free hospitalisation care up to a maximum of US$ 600 per family per year. The hospitals are reimbursed by the insurance companies. The objective of our study was to analyse the extent to which RSBY contributes to universal health coverage by protecting families from making OOP payments.

Methods

A two-stage stratified sampling technique was used to identify eligible BPL families in Patan district of Gujarat, India. Initially, all 517 villages were listed and 78 were selected randomly. From each of these villages, 40 BPL households were randomly selected and a structured questionnaire was administered. Interviews and discussions were also conducted among key stakeholders.

Results

Our sample contained 2,920 households who had enrolled in the RSBY; most were from the poorer sections of society. The average hospital admission rate for the period 2010–2011 was 40/1,000 enrolled. Women, elderly and those belonging to the lowest caste had a higher hospitalisation rate. Forty four per cent of patients who had enrolled in RSBY and had used the RSBY card still faced OOP payments at the time of hospitalisation. The median OOP payment for the above patients was US$ 80 (interquartile range, $16–$200) and was similar in both government and private hospitals. Patients incurred OOP payments mainly because they were asked to purchase medicines and diagnostics, though the same were included in the benefit package.

Conclusions

While the RSBY has managed to include the poor under its umbrella, it has provided only partial financial coverage. Nearly 60% of insured and admitted patients made OOP payments. We plea for better monitoring of the scheme and speculate that it is possible to enhance effective financial coverage of the RSBY if the nodal agency at state level would strengthen its stewardship and oversight functions.
Morphological evolution, growth mechanism, and magneto-transport properties of silver telluride one-dimensional nanostructures
Authors: Li GaoMin , Tang XiaoBing , Zhou ShaoMin , Li Ning , Yuan XianYou
Published: August 2013

Single crystalline one-dimensional (1D) nanostructures of silver telluride (Ag2Te) with well-controlled shapes and sizes were synthesized via the hydrothermal reduction of sodium tellurite (Na2TeO3) in a mixed solution. The morphological evolution of various 1D nanostructures was mainly determined by properly controlling the nucleation and growth process of Ag2Te in different reaction times. Based on the transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy studies, the formation mechanism for these 1D nanostructures was rationally interpreted. In addition, the current–voltage (I-V) characteristics as a function of magnetic field of the highly single crystal Ag2Te nanowires were systematically measured. From the investigation of I-V characteristics, we have observed a rapid change of the current in low magnetic field, which can be used as the magnetic field sensor. The magneto-resistance behavior of the Ag2Te nanowires with monoclinic structure was also investigated. Comparing to the bulk and thin film materials, we found that there is generally a larger change in R (T) as the sample size is reduced, which indicates that the size of the sample has a certain impact on magneto-transport properties. Simultaneously, some possible reasons resulting in the observed large positive magneto-resistance behavior are discussed.
Evaluation of seven DNA barcodes for differentiating closely related medicinal Gentiana species and their adulterants
Authors: Wong Ka-Lok , But PaulPui-Hay , Shaw Pang-Chui
Published: August 2013

Background

Species identification of living organisms by standard DNA sequences has been well-accepted. Consortium for the Barcode of Life (CBOL) recommends chloroplast regions rbcL and matK as the DNA barcodes for the land plants. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and limitations of rbcL, matK, and 5 other commonly used regions as the DNA barcodes for the medicinal Gentiana and their adulterants, Gentiana. rhodantha and Podophyllum hexandrum.

Methods

The species differentiation power of rbcL, matK, nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and 5S rRNA intergenic spacer, and chloroplast trnH-psbA, trnL-F and rpl36-rps8 intergenic spacers were tested in different medicinal Gentiana, including Gentiana scabra, Gentiana triflora, Gentiana manshurica and Gentiana rigescens, from common adulterants such as Gentiana rhodantha and Podophyllum hexandrum (a toxic herb producing podophyllotoxin).

Results

All seven tested loci could be used to differentiate medicinal Gentiana species from their adulterants, and to distinguish Guanlongdan from Jianlongdan. In terms of general differentiation powers, rbcL and matK had no significant advantages over the other five loci. Only the 5S rRNA and trnL-F intergenic spacers were able to discriminate the closely related species G. triflora, G. scabra and G. manshurica.

Conclusion

The DNA barcodes rbcL and matK are useful in differentiation of closely related medicinal species of Gentiana, but had no significant advantages over the other five tested loci.
Thermal behaviour of procaine and benzocaine Part II: compatibility study with some pharmaceutical excipients used in solid dosage forms
Authors: Fuliaş Adriana , Ledeţi Ionuţ , Vlase Gabriela , Popoiu Călin , Hegheş Alina , Bilanin Mihai , Vlase Titus , Gheorgheosu Dorina , Craina Marius , Ardelean Simona , Ferechide Dumitru , Mărginean Otilia , Moş Liana
Published: August 2013

Background

The compatibility study of active substances with excipients finds an important role in the domain of pharmaceutical research, being known the fact that final formulation is the one administered to the patient. In order to evaluate the compatibility between active substance and excipients, different analytical techniques can be used, based on their accuracy, reproducibility and fastness.

Results

Compatibility study of two well-known active substances, procaine and benzocaine, with four commonly used excipients, was carried out employing thermal analysis (TG/DTG/HF) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (UATR-FT-IR). The selected excipients were microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate and talc. Equal proportion of active substance and excipients (w/w) was utilized in the interaction study. The absolute value of the difference between the melting point peak of active substances and the one corresponding for the active substances in the analysed mixture, as well the absolute value of the difference between the enthalpy of the pure active ingredient melting peak and that of its melting peak in the different analysed mixtures were chosen as indexes of the drug-excipient interaction degree. All the results obtained through thermal analysis were also sustained by FT-IR spectroscopy.

Conclusions

The corroboration of data obtained by thermal analysis with the ones from FT-IR spectroscopy indicated that no interaction occurs between procaine and benzocaine, with microcrystalline cellulose and talc, as well for the benzocaine-lactose mixture. Interactions were confirmed between procaine and benzocaine respectively and magnesium stearate, and for procaine and lactose.
A comparative study of Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence in three healthy Chinese populations detected using native and recombinant antigens
Authors: Sun Xiaojing , Lu Huijun , Jia Boyin , Chang Zhiguang , Peng Shuai , Yin Jigang , Chen Qijun , Jiang Ning
Published: August 2013

Background

Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common parasitic zoonoses. The seroprevalence ofToxoplasma gondiiinfection in humans varies widely worldwide. Detection ofToxoplasma-specific antibodies has been a gold standard method for both epidemiological investigation and clinical diagnosis. Genetic investigation indicated that there is a wide distribution of different genome types or variants of the parasite prevalent in different areas. Thus the reliability of using antigens from parasites of a single genome type for diagnosis and epidemiology purposes needs to be extensively evaluated.

Methods

In this study, the prevalence ofT. gondiiinfection among 880 clinically healthy individuals in China was systematically tested using crude soluble native antigens and purified recombinant antigens of type I and IIT. gondii. TheT. gondii-specific IgG and IgM in the sera was further confirmed using commercial Toxoplasmosis Diagnosis Kits and Western blot assays.

Results

The sero-prevalence ofT. gondii-specific IgG detected with crude native Type I and type II antigens was 12.2% and 11.3% respectively. Whereas the overall prevalence was more than 20% when combined with the results obtained with recombinant tachyzoite and bradyzoite antigens. There was an obvious variation in immune-recognition of parasite antigens among the individuals studied.

Conclusions

The general prevalence of anti-T. gondiiIgG in the study population was likely much higher than previously reported. The data also suggested that there is more genetic diversity among theT. gondiiisolates in China. Further, combination of recombinant antigens with clear immuno-recognition will be able to generate more sensitive diagnostic results than those obtained with crude antigens ofT. gondiitachyzoites.
Renal cancer-selective Englerin A induces multiple mechanisms of cell death and autophagy
Authors: Williams Richard T , Yu Alice L , Diccianni Mitchell B , Theodorakis Emmanuel A , Batova Ayse
Published: August 2013

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the most common malignancy of the kidney, is refractory to standard therapy and has an incidence that continues to rise. Screening of plant extracts in search of new agents to treat RCC resulted in the discovery of englerin A (EA), a natural product exhibiting potent selective cytotoxicity against renal cancer cells. Despite the establishment of synthetic routes to the synthesis of EA, very little is known about its mechanism of action. The results of the current study demonstrate for the first time that EA induces apoptosis in A498 renal cancer cells in addition to necrosis. The induction of apoptosis by EA required at least 24 h and was caspase independent. In addition, EA induced increased levels of autophagic vesicles in A498 cells which could be inhibited by nonessential amino acids (NEAA), known inhibitors of autophagy. Interestingly, inhibition of autophagy by NEAA did not diminish cell death suggesting that autophagy is not a cell death mechanism and likely represents a cell survival mechanism which ultimately fails. Apart from cell death, our results demonstrated that cells treated with EA accumulated in the G2phase of the cell cycle indicating a block in G2/M transition. Moreover, our results determined that EA inhibited the activation of both AKT and ERK, kinases which are activated in cancer and implicated in unrestricted cell proliferation and induction of autophagy. The phosphorylation status of the cellular energy sensor, AMPK, appeared unaffected by EA. The high renal cancer selectivity of EA combined with its ability to induce multiple mechanisms of cell death while inhibiting pathways driving cell proliferation, suggest that EA is a highly unique agent with great potential as a therapeutic lead for the treatment of RCC.
A preliminary study of motivational interviewing as a prelude to intensive treatment for an eating disorder
Authors: Weiss Carmen V , Mills Jennifer S , Westra Henny A , Carter Jacqueline C
Published: August 2013

Background

Engaging patients with an eating disorder in change is difficult and intensive treatment programs have high drop-out rates. The purpose of the study was to determine whether Motivational Interviewing (MI) in the form of a brief, pre-treatment intervention would be associated with higher completion rates in subsequent intensive treatment for an eating disorder.

Thirty-two participants diagnosed with an eating disorder participated in the study. All participants were on the waitlist for admission to an intensive, hospital-based treatment program. Sixteen participants were randomly assigned to four individual sessions of MI that began prior to entrance into the treatment program (MI condition) and 16 participants were assigned to treatment as usual (control condition). The main outcome was completion of the intensive treatment program. Participants also completed self-report measures of motivation to change.

Results

Participants in the MI condition were significantly more likely to complete intensive treatment (69% completion rate) than were those in the control condition (31%).

Conclusions

MI can be a useful intervention to engage individuals with severe eating disorders prior to participation in intensive treatment. MI as a brief prelude to hospital-based treatment for an eating disorder may help to improve completion rates in such programs. Further research is required to determine the precise therapeutic mechanisms of change in MI.
Accelerated Aging, Decreased White Matter Integrity, and Associated Neuropsychological Dysfunction 25 Years After Pediatric Lymphoid Malignancies
Authors: Schuitema Ilse , Deprez Sabine , Van Hecke Wim , Daams Marita , Uyttebroeck Anne , Sunaert Stefan , Barkhof Frederik , van Dulmen-den Broeder Eline , van der Pal Helena J. , van den Bos Cor , Veerman Anjo J.P. , de Sonneville Leo M.J.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

CNS-directed chemotherapy (CT) and cranial radiotherapy (CRT) for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia or lymphoma have various neurotoxic properties. This study aimed to assess their impact on the maturing brain 20 to 30 years after diagnosis, providing a much stronger perspective on long-term quality of life than previous studies.

Patients and Methods

Ninety-three patients treated between 1978 and 1990 at various intensities, with and without CRT, and 49 healthy controls were assessed with magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and neuropsychological tests. Differences in fractional anisotropy (FA)—a DTI measure describing white matter (WM) microstructure—were analyzed by using whole brain voxel-based analysis.

Results

CRT-treated survivors demonstrated significantly decreased FA compared with controls in frontal, parietal, and temporal WM tracts. Trends for lower FA were seen in the CT-treated survivors. Decreases in FA correlated well with neuropsychological dysfunction. In contrast to the CT group and controls, the CRT group showed a steep decline of FA with age at assessment. Younger age at cranial irradiation and higher dosage were associated with worse outcome of WM integrity.

Conclusion

CRT-treated survivors show decreased WM integrity reflected by significantly decreased FA and associated neuropsychological dysfunction 25 years after treatment, although effects of CT alone seem mild. Accelerated aging of the brain and increased risk of early onset dementia are suspected after CRT, but not after CT.
How Do Social Factors Explain Outcomes in Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer Among Hispanics in California? Explaining the Hispanic Paradox
Authors: Patel Manali I. , Schupp Clayton W. , Gomez Scarlett L. , Chang Ellen T. , Wakelee Heather A.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Hispanics in the United States have lower age-adjusted mortality resulting from non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compared with non-Hispanic whites (NHWs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate individual, clinical, and neighborhood factors in survival among Hispanics with NSCLC.

Patients and Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of NHWs and Hispanics with NSCLC between 1998 and 2007 in the California Cancer Registry (follow-up to December 2009). Kaplan-Meier curves depict survival by nativity for Hispanics with NSCLC. Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard of mortality by race with adjustment for individual (age, sex, marital status), clinical (histologic grade, surgery, irradiation, chemotherapy), and neighborhood factors (neighborhood socioeconomic status, ethnic enclave).

Results

We included 14,280 Hispanic patients with NSCLC. Foreign-born Hispanics had 15% decreased risk of disease-specific mortality resulting from NSCLC compared with NHWs (hazard ratio [HR], 0.85; 95% CI, 0.83 to 0.88) after adjustment for individual, clinical, and neighborhood factors. After adjustment for individual factors, compared with US-born Hispanics, foreign-born Hispanics had 10% decreased risk of disease-specific mortality (HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.87 to 0.96). Clinical and neighborhood factors slightly moderated the survival benefit for foreign-born patients. A modestly more pronounced survival advantage was seen for foreign-born Hispanics living in low socioeconomic and high Hispanic enclave neighborhoods as compared with US-born Hispanics (HR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.81 to 0.90).

Conclusion

Foreign-born Hispanics with NSCLC have a decreased risk of disease-specific mortality compared with NHWs and US-born Hispanics with NSCLC. Neighborhood factors slightly moderate this survival advantage. This survival advantage is slightly more pronounced in lower socioeconomic and higher Hispanic enclave neighborhoods.
Maternal Obesity Enhances White Adipose Tissue Differentiation and Alters Genome-Scale DNA Methylation in Male Rat Offspring
Authors: Borengasser Sarah J. , Zhong Ying , Kang Ping , Lindsey Forrest , Ronis Martin J. J. , Badger Thomas M. , Gomez-Acevedo Horacio , Shankar Kartik
Published: August 2013

The risk of obesity (OB) in adulthood is strongly influenced by maternal body composition. Here we examined the hypothesis that maternal OB influences white adipose tissue (WAT) transcriptome and increases propensity for adipogenesis in the offspring, prior to the development of OB, using an established model of long-term metabolic programming. Employing an overfeeding-based rat model, in which exposure to OB is limited to preconception and gestation alone, we conducted global transcriptomic profiling in WAT, and gene/protein expression analysis of lipogenic and adipogenic pathways and examined adipogenic differentiation of WAT stromal-vascular cells ex vivo. Using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing we also evaluated genome-scale changes in DNA methylation in offspring WAT. Maternal OB led to extensive changes in expression of genes (±1.8-fold, P ≤ .05), revealing a distinct up-regulation of lipogenic pathways in WAT. mRNA expression of a battery of sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1-regulated genes was increased in OB-dam offspring, which were confirmed by immunoblotting. In conjunction with lipogenic gene expression, OB-dam offspring showed increased glucose transporter-4 mRNA/protein expression and greater AKT phosphorylation following acute insulin challenge, suggesting sensitization of insulin signaling in WAT. Offspring of OB dams also exhibited increased in vivo expression of adipogenic regulators (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, CCAAT enhancer binding protein α [C/EBP-α] and C/EBP-β), associated with greater ex vivo differentiation of WAT stromal-vascular cells. These transcriptomic changes were associated with alterations in DNA methylation of CpG sites and CGI shores, proximal to developmentally important genes, including key pro-adipogenic factors (Zfp423 and C/EBP-β). Our findings strongly suggest that the maternal OB in utero alters adipocyte commitment and differentiation via epigenetic mechanisms.
Molecular Evolution of Kiss2 Genes and Peptides in Vertebrates
Authors: Osugi Tomohiro , Ohtaki Naohito , Sunakawa Yuya , Son You Lee , Ohkubo Makoto , Iigo Masayuki , Amano Masafumi , Tsutsui Kazuyoshi
Published: August 2013

The kiss1 peptide (kisspeptin), a product of the kiss1 gene, is one of the key neuropeptides regulating vertebrate reproduction. In 2009, we identified a paralogous gene of kiss1 in the brain of amphibians and named it kiss2. Currently, the presence of the kiss2 gene and the kiss2 peptide is still obscure in amniotes compared with that in other vertebrates. Therefore, we performed genome database analyses in primates and reptiles to investigate the molecular evolution of the kiss2 gene in vertebrates. Because the mature kiss2 peptide has been identified only in amphibians, we further performed immunoaffinity purification and mass spectrometry to identify the mature endogenous kiss2 peptide in the brains of salmon and turtle that possessed the kiss2 gene. Here we provide the first evidence for the presence of a kiss2-like gene in the genome database of primates including humans. Synthetic amidated human KISS2 peptide activated human GPR54 expressed in COS7 cells, but nonamidated KISS2 peptide was inactive. The endogenous amidated kiss2 peptide may not be produced in primates because of the lack of an amidation signal in the precursor polypeptide. The kiss2-like gene may be nonfunctional in crocodilians because of premature stop codons. We identified the mature amidated kiss2 peptide in turtles and fish and analyzed the localization of kiss2 peptide mRNA expression in fish. The present study suggests that the kiss2 gene may have mutated in primates and crocodilians and been lost in birds during the course of evolution. In contrast, the kiss2 gene and mature kiss2 peptide are present in turtles and fish.
Kisspeptin, Neurokinin B, and Dynorphin Act in the Arcuate Nucleus to Control Activity of the GnRH Pulse Generator in Ewes
Authors: Goodman Robert L. , Hileman Stanley M. , Nestor Casey C , Porter Katrina L. , Connors John M. , Hardy Steve L. , Millar Robert P. , Cernea Maria , Coolen Lique M. , Lehman Michael N.
Published: August 2013

Recent work has led to the hypothesis that kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin (KNDy) neurons in the arcuate nucleus play a key role in GnRH pulse generation, with kisspeptin driving GnRH release and neurokinin B (NKB) and dynorphin acting as start and stop signals, respectively. In this study, we tested this hypothesis by determining the actions, if any, of four neurotransmitters found in KNDy neurons (kisspeptin, NKB, dynorphin, and glutamate) on episodic LH secretion using local administration of agonists and antagonists to receptors for these transmitters in ovariectomized ewes. We also obtained evidence that GnRH-containing afferents contact KNDy neurons, so we tested the role of two components of these afferents: GnRH and orphanin-FQ. Microimplants of a Kiss1r antagonist briefly inhibited LH pulses and microinjections of 2 nmol of this antagonist produced a modest transitory decrease in LH pulse frequency. An antagonist to the NKB receptor also decreased LH pulse frequency, whereas NKB and an antagonist to the receptor for dynorphin both increased pulse frequency. In contrast, antagonists to GnRH receptors, orphanin-FQ receptors, and the N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor had no effect on episodic LH secretion. We thus conclude that the KNDy neuropeptides act in the arcuate nucleus to control episodic GnRH secretion in the ewe, but afferent input from GnRH neurons to this area does not. These data support the proposed roles for NKB and dynorphin within the KNDy neural network and raise the possibility that kisspeptin contributes to the control of GnRH pulse frequency in addition to its established role as an output signal from KNDy neurons that drives GnRH pulses.
“It Felt Like Community”: Social Movement Unionism and the Chicago Teachers Union Strike of 2012
Authors: Alter Tom
Published: August 2013

In this article Tom Alter analyzes the Chicago Teachers Union Strike of September 2012. He views the strike as a return to social movement unionism reminiscent of the unionism developed during the 1930s and argues that for today's labor movement to survive it must return to such social movement unionism, leaving behind the business union model that has guided the labor movement in the United States since the 1950s.
The Company's Voice in the Workplace: Labor Spies, Propaganda, and Personnel Management, 1918 – 1920
Authors: Robertson Stephen
Published: August 2013

During World War I, a new form of labor spying developed in addition to spying on unions and strikers and doing “efficiency work,” namely, doing “propaganda work.” As a result of the emergence of propaganda combined with increased interest in personnel management, labor spies became the employer's voice in the workplace, repeating arguments drawn from management literature and seeking to change how workers thought about their relationship with their employer. Propaganda work also required labor spies to develop sufficiently intimate friendships with employees, so that they would listen to the spies' arguments. Propaganda work was thus more tied to ideas about management and economic circumstances and was more invasive of everyday life than the other practices of labor spies. By examining the reports of two operatives hired to do propaganda work in Fulton Bag and Cotton Mill Company plants in Atlanta and Brooklyn, in 1918 and 1920, respectively, Stephen Robertson explores the development of this form of labor spying and how the circumstances of war and peace affected its practice. He compares the reports of the two operatives, one male and one female, and highlights how gender shaped propaganda work.
Onshore and Offshore Hedge Funds: Are They Twins?
Authors: Aragon George , Liang Bing , Park Hyuna
Published: August 2013

Contrary to offshore hedge funds, U.S.-domiciled (“onshore”) funds are subject to strict marketing prohibitions, accredited investor requirements, a limited number of investors, and taxable accounts. We exploit these differences to test predictions about organizational design, investment strategy, capital flows, and fund performance. We find that onshore funds are associated with greater share restrictions, more liquid assets, and a reduced sensitivity of capital flows to superior past performance. We also find some evidence that onshore funds outperform offshore funds, depending on the sample period. The results suggest that a fund's investment and financial policies reflect differences in investor clienteles and the regulatory environment.

This paper was accepted by Wei Xiong, finance.
Optimal Software Reuse in Incremental Software Development: A Transfer Pricing Approach
Authors: Ceran Yasin , Dawande Milind , Liu Dengpan , Mookerjee Vijay
Published: August 2013

This study develops optimal transfer pricing schemes that manage software reuse in incremental software development, namely, a development regime wherein users begin utilizing parts of the system that are released to them even before the system is entirely completed. In this setting, conflicts can arise between developers and users from divergent interests concerning the release of functionalities in the project. The release of functionalities is influenced by reuse, i.e., the effort spent by the development team to write code that can be reused within the same project or in future projects. For example, the development team may choose to spend extra effort to make certain portions of the system reusable because doing so could reduce the effort needed to develop the entire system. However, the additional effort spent on reuse could delay the release of certain critical functionality, making such a strategy suboptimal for the users. Thus, optimal reuse decisions for developers and users could be different. In addition, from the firm's perspective, reuse decisions must not only balance the objectives of developers and users for the current project, but reuse effort may be spent to benefit future projects. Our study also highlights the fact that reuse may not always be beneficial for the firm. To this end, we consider different instances of the user–developer conflict and provide transfer pricing schemes that operate under information asymmetry and achieve two key properties: firm-level optimality and truth revelation.

This paper was accepted by Sandra Slaughter, information systems.
Identification of novel nucleus pulposus markers
Authors: Rodrigues-Pinto R. , Richardson S. M. , Hoyland J. A.
Published: August 2013

Mesenchymal stem-cell based therapies have been proposed as novel treatments for intervertebral disc degeneration, a prevalent and disabling condition associated with back pain. The development of these treatment strategies, however, has been hindered by the incomplete understanding of the human nucleus pulposus phenotype and by an inaccurate interpretation and translation of animal to human research. This review summarises recent work characterising the nucleus pulposus phenotype in different animal models and in humans and integrates their findings with the anatomical and physiological differences between these species. Understanding this phenotype is paramount to guarantee that implanted cells restore the native functions of the intervertebral disc.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2013;2:169–78.
MicroRNA Signature Helps Distinguish Early from Late Biochemical Failure in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lichner Zsuzsanna , Fendler Annika , Saleh Carol , Nasser Aurfan N , Boles Dina , Al-Haddad Sahar , Kupchak Peter , Dharsee Moyez , Nuin Paulo S , Evans Kenneth R , Jung Klaus , Stephan Carsten , Fleshner Neil E , Yousef George M
Published: August 2013

PURPOSE

Prostate-specific antigen testing has led to overtreatment of prostate cancer (PCa). Only a small subset of PCa patients will have an aggressive disease that requires intensive therapy, and there is currently no biomarker to predict disease aggressiveness at the time of surgery. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are reported to be involved in PCa pathogenesis.

METHODS

This study involved 105 participants. For the discovery phase, prostatectomy samples were dichotomized to high-risk (n = 27, biochemical failure <36 months after prostatectomy) and low-risk groups (n = 14, ≥36 months without biochemical failure). Expression of 754 mature miRNAs was compared between the 2 groups. Linear regression models were built to accurately predict biochemical failure risk. miRNA mimics were transfected into PCa model cell lines to test effects on proliferation and to deduce responding signaling pathways.

RESULTS

We identified 25 differentially expressed miRNAs between the biochemical failure risk groups. Based on the expression of 2–3 miRNAs, 3 logistic regression models were developed, each with a high positive predictive value. Candidate miRNAs and the best-performing model were also verified on an independent PCa set. miRNA-152, featured in the models, was further investigated by using cell line models and was shown to affect cell proliferation. Predicted interaction between miR-152 and (mRNA)ERBB3 (erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 3) was experimentally validated in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

miRNAs can help to predict biochemical failure risk at the time of prostatectomy.
Zahlen, Daten, Fakten – ein Forschungsinformationssystem als Grundlage des Qualitätsmanagements für die Forschung am Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)
Authors: Fondermann Philipp , Köppen Dominique
Published: August 2013

Der Beitrag zeigt zunächst, wie sehr ein Qualitätsmanagement-Regelkreis für die Forschung auf die Dokumentation von Forschungsinformationen mithilfe eines Forschungsinformationssystems (FIS) angewiesen ist. Nach einem Überblick über die generellen Einsatzmöglichkeiten dieser Systeme wird als Fallstudie das Projekt KIM-FIS vorgestellt, in dessen Rahmen die Bibliothek des Karlsruher Instituts für Technologie (KIT) derzeit ein Forschungsinformationssystem als Grundlage eines Qualitätsmanagements für die Forschung implementiert.
Surface Modification of Polyetheretherketone by Helium/nitrogen and Nitrous Oxide Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition
Authors: Kluska Stanisława , Pamuła Elżbieta , Jonas Stanisława , Grzesik Zbigniew
Published: August 2013

The surface of the polyetheretherketone (PEEK) samples was modified by the plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) in the mixture of He and N2 as well as in the N2O atmosphere. Morphological characterization of the PEEK as well as its surface roughness, chemical structure, and surface free energy were investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and sessile drop technique, respectively. The highest increase in the polar component of the total surface energy was observed for PEEK modified by He+N2 plasma, which correlated with significant increase in the concentration of oxygen and nitrogen-containing chemical functionalities as revealed by XPS. For PEEK submitted to N2O plasma treatment significant changes in surface topography and increase in roughness were observed, but changes in surface chemistry and surface free energy were mild.
Reduction of FeO in EAF Steelmaking Slag by Blends of Metallurgical Coke and Waste Polypropylene
Authors: Dankwah James R. , Koshy Pramod
Published: August 2013

The reduction of FeO-containing slag by blends of metallurgical coke and waste polypropylene (PP) has been investigated through experiments conducted in a laboratory scale horizontal tube furnace. Composite pellets of EAF slag (47.1% FeO) with coke, PP and blends of coke/PP (in three different proportions) were rapidly heated at 1500 °C under high purity argon gas and the off gas was continuously analysed for CO and CO2 using an online infrared gas analyser (IR). The extent of reduction after fifteen minutes, level of carburisation and desulphurization were determined for each carbonaceous reductant. The results show that FeO can be effectively reduced from EAF slag to produce metallic iron using waste PP and its blends with coke as reductants; improvements in the extent of reduction and levels of carburisation and desulphurisation of the reduced metal were observed when coke was blended with PP.
Effects of Lanthanum and Boron on the Microstructure and Magnetic Properties of Non-oriented Electrical Steels
Authors: Wan Yong , Chen Wei-qing , Wu Shao-jie
Published: August 2013

The effects of lanthanum and boron on the inclusion size distribution, microstructure, texture and magnetic properties of three non-oriented electrical steels have been studied. After final annealing, lanthanum effectively inhibited the precipitation of MnS precipitates and promoted the growth of grains, an addition of 0.0041 wt.% boron led to the precipitation of Fe2B particles and inhibited grain growth. On the other hand, steel containing 0.0055 wt.% lanthanum had the strongest {100} and {111} fiber texture and the weakest {112}〈110〉 texture among the steels. Compared to steel without lanthanum and boron, steel with 0.0050 wt.% lanthanum and 0.0041 wt.% boron obtained slightly stronger intensities of {100} and {111} fiber texture, and a little weaker intensity of {112}〈110〉 texture. Steel containing 0.0055 wt.% lanthanum achieved the best magnetic properties, whose core loss and magnetic flux density were 4.268 W/kg and 1.768 T, respectively.
Death at Diamond Mountain
Authors: Immergut Matthew
Published: August 2013

For the past five years, I have engaged in fieldwork and filming a documentary about Diamond Mountain, a community of Western converts to Tibetan Buddhism in southern Arizona under the leadership of Geshe Michael Roach and Lama Christie McNally. The latter was retreat master and, along with her husband Ian Thorson, in the middle of guiding forty students through a three-year, three-month, three-day silent meditation retreat. But when McNally stabbed Thorson, the Diamond Mountain Board asked both to leave. Feigning departure, the couple sneaked into a small cave just outside the Diamond Mountain property, where two months later Thorson died of dehydration. Stories of scandal, cult and death flooded the media. This essay provides an account of these events, the mistrust of my research that emerged because of the media’s stigmatization of the group, and the type of trust-building necessary to continue my research.
The Prevalence and Extent of Coronary Atherosclerosis among Patients with a Zero Calcium Score and the Influence of Patient Characteristics
Authors: Oncel Guray , Oncel Dilek
Published: August 2013

Purpose: Coronary artery calcium (CAC) is a specific indicator of and an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis; however, calcium scoring may miss noncalcified plaques, which may have clinical importance. The aim of this study was both to identify the presence and extent of coronary plaques during computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) in patients with a zero CAC score and to evaluate the effect of risk factors and symptom status on the presence of noncalcified plaques.

Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, we analyzed the cases of 842 consecutive patients between October 2006 and November 2011. Of these patients, we included 357 with a zero calcium score in the study. Information regarding patient age, sex, coronary risk factors, and symptom status were recorded. Coronary calcium-scoring scans were followed by CTCA. The calcium scores were calculated, and the presence of noncalcified plaques and significant stenoses (>50% of vessel diameter) was evaluated.

Results: Of the 357 patients with a zero calcium score, 37 (10.36%) had atherosclerotic plaques; 9 patients (2.52%) had significant coronary stenosis. Among coronary risk factors, only diabetes mellitus was significantly correlated with any risk factors (presence of atherosclerosis and obstructive coronary artery disease; P = .030 and .013, respectively).

Conclusion: Although CAC scoring is a safe and a reliable test to exclude obstructive coronary artery disease, the absence of CAC does not definitively exclude the presence of atherosclerosis. CTCA is a more appropriate method for determining the atheroma burden.
Progression of Aortic Regurgitation in Asian Patients with Congenital Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm
Authors: Li Zhi-Qiang , Liu Ai-Jun , Li Xiao-Feng , Zhu Yao-Bin , Liu Ying-Long
Published: August 2013

Background: We reviewed the experience of An Zhen and Fu Wai Hospital for congenital sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) to determine risk factors for aortic valve replacement (AVR) and postoperative progression of aortic regurgitation (AR).

Methods: Over a 7-year period, 255 patients underwent surgical repair of an SVA. Aneurysms originated from the right sinus and the noncoronary sinus in 212 patients (83.1%) and 38 patients (14.9%), respectively, and protruded into the right ventricle and right atrium in 171 patients (67.1%) and 80 patients (31.4%), respectively. AR presented in 142 patients (55.7%), 60 patients underwent AVR, and 13 patients underwent aortic valvuloplasty (3 patients eventually received AVR for valvuloplasty failure).

Results: All patients survived the operation. Late death occurred in 2 patients (0.8%), and 2 patients (0.8%) experienced anticoagulation-related complications. Logistic regression analysis revealed that infective endocarditis, the cardiothoracic ratio, and a nonruptured SVA were risk factors for AVR. Late follow-up of 150 patients by echocardiographic assessment revealed that AR improved in 17 patients and worsened in 20 patients. Cox regression analysis revealed AR at discharge to be an independent risk factor for AR aggravation at late follow-up.

Conclusions: SVA can be repaired with low mortality and excellent long-term results. AR at discharge is an important factor in determining AR aggravation at late follow-up after the operation. We recommend early diagnosis and aggressive treatment for SVA.
Bisphenol A and Chronic Disease Risk Factors in US Children
Authors: Eng Donna S. , Lee Joyce M. , Gebremariam Achamyeleh , Meeker John D. , Peterson Karen , Padmanabhan Vasantha
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the relationship between urinary bisphenol A (BPA) levels and measures of adiposity and chronic disease risk factors for a nationally representative US pediatric sample.

METHODS:

We used the NHANES 2003–2010 to evaluate cross-sectional associations between urinary BPA and multiple measures of adiposity, cholesterol, insulin, and glucose for children aged 6 to 18 years, adjusting for relevant covariates (eg, demographics, urine creatinine, tobacco exposure, and soda consumption).

RESULTS:

We found a higher odds of obesity (BMI ≥95th percentile) with increasing quartiles of BPA for quartiles 2 vs 1 (odds ratio [OR] 1.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17–2.60, P = .008), 3 vs 1 (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.09–2.47, P = .02), and 4 vs 1 (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.36–2.98, P = .001). We also found a higher odds of having an abnormal waist circumference–to–height ratio (quartiles 2 vs 1 [OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.98–1.93, P = .07], 3 vs 1 [OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.07–1.87, P = .02], and 4 vs 1 [OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.12–2.15, P = .01]). We did not find significant associations of BPA with any other chronic disease risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS:

Higher levels of urinary BPA were associated with a higher odds of obesity (BMI >95%) and abnormal waist circumference–to–height ratio. Longitudinal analyses are needed to elucidate temporal relationships between BPA exposure and the development of obesity and chronic disease risk factors in children.