bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A novel comprehensive analysis method for Staphylococcus aureus pathogenicity islands
Authors: Sato'o Yusuke , Omoe Katsuhiko , Ono Hisaya K. , Nakane Akio , Hu Dong‐Liang 
Published: December 2012

AbstractStaphylococcus aureus pathogenicity islands (SaPIs) form a growing family of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in Staphylococci. Horizontal genetic transfer by MGEs plays an important role in the evolution of S. aureus. Several SaPIs carry staphylococcal enterotoxin and SE‐like toxin genes. To comprehensively investigate the diversity of SaPIs, a series of primers corresponding to sequences flanking six SaPI insertion sites in S. aureus genome were designed and a long and accurate (LA)‐PCR analysis method established. LA‐PCR products of 13–17 kbp were observed in strains with seb, selk or selq genes. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis showed that the products have different RFLP characteristics than do previously described SaPIs; they were therefore predicted to include new SaPIs. Nucleotide sequencing analysis revealed seven novel SaPIs: seb‐harboring SaPIivm10, SaPishikawa11, SaPIivm60, SaPIno10 and SaPIhirosaki4, selk and selq‐harboring SaPIj11 and non‐superantigen‐harboring SaPIhhms2. These SaPIs have mosaic structures containing components of known SaPIs and other unknown genes. Strains carrying different SaPIs were found to have significantly different production of superantigen toxins. The present results show that the LA‐PCR approach can comprehensively identify SaPI diversity and is useful for investigating the evolution of S. aureus pathogenicity.
Temperature effects on pitfall catches of epigeal arthropods: a model and method for bias correction
Authors: Saska Pavel , van der Werf Wopke , Hemerik Lia , Luff Martin L. , Hatten Timothy D. , Honek Alois 
Published: December 2012

SummaryCarabids and other epigeal arthropods make important contributions to biodiversity, food webs and biocontrol of invertebrate pests and weeds. Pitfall trapping is widely used for sampling carabid populations, but this technique yields biased estimates of abundance (‘activity‐density’) because individual activity – which is affected by climatic factors – affects the rate of catch. To date, the impact of temperature on pitfall catches, while suspected to be large, has not been quantified, and no method is available to account for it. This lack of knowledge and the unavailability of a method for bias correction affect the confidence that can be placed on results of ecological field studies based on pitfall data.Here, we develop a simple model for the effect of temperature, assuming a constant proportional change in the rate of catch per °C change in temperature,r, consistent with an exponential Q10response to temperature. We fit this model to 38 time series of pitfall catches and accompanying temperature records from the literature, using first differences and other detrending methods to account for seasonality. We use meta‐analysis to assess consistency of the estimated parameterramong studies.The mean rate of increase in total catch across data sets was 0·0863 ± 0·0058 per °C of maximum temperature and 0·0497 ± 0·0107 per °C of minimum temperature. Multiple regression analyses of 19 data sets showed that temperature is the key climatic variable affecting total catch. Relationships between temperature and catch were also identified at species level. Correction for temperature bias had substantial effects on seasonal trends of carabid catches.Synthesis and Applications. The effect of temperature on pitfall catches is shown here to be substantial and worthy of consideration when interpreting results of pitfall trapping. The exponential model can be used both for effect estimation and for bias correction of observed data. Correcting for temperature‐related trapping bias is straightforward and enables population estimates to be more comparable. It may thus improve data interpretation in ecological, conservation and monitoring studies, and assist in better management and conservation of habitats and ecosystem services. Nevertheless, field ecologists should remain vigilant for other sources of bias.
Graft‐related complications and biaxial tensiometry following experimental vaginal implantation of flat mesh of variable dimensions
Authors: Manodoro S , Endo M , Uvin P , Albersen M , Vláčil J , Engels A , Schmidt B , De Ridder D , Feola A , Deprest J 
Published: December 2012

ObjectiveTo compare the occurrence of graft‐related complications (GRCs) and biomechanical properties of meshes implanted vaginally and abdominally.DesignIn vivo animal experiment.SettingCentre for Surgical Technologies, Medical Faculty, KU Leuven, Belgium.PopulationTwenty adult parous Texel ewes.MethodsSheep were implanted with Gynemesh M, a 28‐g/m² polypropylene mesh reinforced with polyglecaprone fibres, under general anaesthesia. Dissection into the rectovaginal septum was performed to accommodate a flat 50 × 50 mm (n = 10) or 35 × 35 mm (n = 10) mesh, which was sutured to the underlying tissues. A 50 × 50 mm mesh was laid over a primarily sutured, full‐thickness, 40‐mm longitudinal abdominal wall incision. Sacrifice was at 60 days (n = 10) or 90 days (n = 5).Main outcome measuresThe occurrence of exposure, the degree of contraction and examination of the biomechanical properties of explants with a minimum radius of 32 mm via biaxial tensiometry.ResultsInsertion of a 50 × 50 mm mesh led to exposures in 30% (3/10) of cases, and the average contraction rate was 52 ± 14%. In the 35 × 35 mm implants, there were no exposures, and the contraction rate was 25 ± 26.3%. Vaginal explants with no GRCs and of sufficient size had biomechanical properties that were comparable with those of abdominal explants.ConclusionVaginal mesh insertion is associated with GRCs, such as exposure and contraction. Although other factors probably play a role, this study illustrates that mesh size may also induce these complications. In a vaginal surgery model, clinically occurring GRCs can be reproduced. In addition, biomechanics of uncomplicated vaginal explants are comparable with those measured on abdominal explants.
Vaginal degeneration following implantation of synthetic mesh with increased stiffness
Authors: Liang R , Abramowitch S , Knight K , Palcsey S , Nolfi A , Feola A , Stein S , Moalli PA 
Published: December 2012

ObjectiveTo compare the impact of the prototype prolapse mesh Gynemesh PS with that of two new‐generation lower stiffness meshes, UltraPro and SmartMesh, on vaginal morphology and structural composition.DesignA mechanistic study employing a nonhuman primate model.SettingMagee‐Womens Research Institute at the University of Pittsburgh.PopulationParous rhesus macaques, with similar age, weight, parity and Pelvic Organ Prolapse‐Questionnaire scores.MethodsFollowing Institutional Animal Care Use Committee approval, 50 rhesus macaques were implanted with Gynemesh PS (n = 12), UltraPro with its blue line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of vagina (n = 10), UltraPro with its blue line parallel to the longitudinal axis of vagina (n = 8) or SmartMesh (n = 8) via sacrocolpopexy following hysterectomy. Sham‐operated animals (n = 12) served as controls.Main outcome measuresThe mesh–vagina complex was removed after 12 weeks and analysed for histomorphology, in situ cell apoptosis, total collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycan content and total collagenase activity. Appropriate statistics and correlation analyses were performed accordingly.ResultsRelative to sham and the two lower stiffness meshes, Gynemesh PS had the greatest negative impact on vaginal histomorphology and composition. Compared with sham, implantation with Gynemesh PS caused substantial thinning of the smooth muscle layer (1557 ± 499 μm versus 866 ± 210 μm, P = 0.02), increased apoptosis particularly in the area of the mesh fibres (P = 0.01), decreased collagen and elastin content (20%, P = 0.03 and 43%, P = 0.02, respectively) and increased total collagenase activity (135%, P = 0.01). Glycosaminoglycan, a marker of tissue injury, was highest with Gynemesh PS compared with sham and other meshes (P = 0.01).ConclusionMesh implantation with the stiffer mesh Gynemesh PS induced a maladaptive remodelling response consistent with vaginal degeneration.
Principles‐Based Reasoning about Accounting Estimates
Authors: Smieliauskas Wally 
Published: December 2012

AbstractThis article proposes a key principle and related concepts for reasoning about accounting estimates. The reasoning is consistent with a principles‐based professional judgment framework proposed by Ross Skinner and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland. The principle deals with reasonable ranges and related risk assessments in the audit of accounting estimates. It does so by using concepts first introduced by Boritz and Skinner and updates them for the requirements of CAS/ISA No. 540 and International Financial Reporting Standards. The article identifies the conditions for the existence of the benchmark ranges proposed by Smieliauskas in identifying fairly presented estimates. The need for a professional judgment framework and related guidance has been recognized recently by the International Federation of Accountants, a 2010 EU Green Paper, and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board as a result of challenges auditors have been facing in the current reporting environment. This recognition echoes calls first made by Ross Skinner in his pioneering 1995 article, and reinforced by the FASB/IASB 2006 proposal for principles‐based accounting standards.
Condominium Townhouse Investment
Authors: Wakil Gulraze , Petruska Karin 
Published: December 2012

AbstractThis accounting case involves the evaluation of various alternatives based on a real‐life personal property investment. The Condominium Townhouse Investment (CTI) case uses introductory management accounting concepts and analyses to introduce students to the case method of learning. The main concepts reinforced are relevant costs and revenues, including differentiating between opportunity and sunk costs. Students are not only asked to define and identify these items, but to consider choices centered on the decision alternatives in their role as accountants in public practice. This case is especially valuable because it offers students the chance to become engaged in an analysis and decision‐making situation that they can relate to both personally and professionally because, one day, they themselves are likely to become involved in a home ownership decision. The case focuses on real estate as a personal business investment, and requires both qualitative and quantitative analysis, with more emphasis on the qualitative aspect. In addition, the teaching notes include methods and strategies for students to use in an introductory managerial accounting class or level‐1 MBA class.
Phenological growth stages of Camellia japonica
Authors: Vela P. , Salinero C. , Sainz M.J. 
Published: December 2012

AbstractCamellia japonica is the most important ornamental species within the genus Camellia, with over 32 000 cultivars. On the basis of data from 72 cultivars maintained in a live camellia germplasm bank in Pontevedra (NW Spain), the phenological growth stages of C. japonica are described using the Biologische Bundesantalt and Chemische scale. The main stages of development for buds, leaves, shoots, harvestable vegetative plant parts, flowers and fruits are given. Eight main stages were defined, with a total of 42 secondary stages. This scale provides growers and researchers with uniform criteria on the selection and description of phenological stages for best management and study of C. japonica.
Ultrasound‐guided infragluteal sciatic nerve block: a comparison between four different techniques
Authors: TAMMAM T. F. 
Published: December 2012

ObjectiveUltrasound guided sciatic block can be performed by different techniques. We compared namely short or long axis views of the sciatic nerve with in‐plane or out‐of‐plane needle insertion techniques for the infragluteal sciatic nerve block (ISNB).MethodsOne hundred twenty patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I–III, scheduled for foot surgery were assigned into four groups. Group SI: patients received ultrasound‐guided SNB using short axis (S) view of the SN and in‐plane (I) insertion of needle. Group LI: patients received SNB using long axis (L) view of SN and (I) insertion of the needle. Group SO: patients received SNB using (S) view of SN and out‐of‐plane (O) insertion of the needle. Group LO: patients received SNB using (L) view of SN and (O) insertion of the needle. Primary outcomes included the time to perform the block (recognition and performance time) and the level of patient discomfort during block placement.ResultsThe recognition time and performance time were shortest in LI group (51 ± 16.4 and 87.7 ± 14.8 s), while they were longest in LO group (138.7 ± 21.4 and 160.3 ± 17.5 s). There were no significant differences between the groups as regards the number of attempts and needle redirections to elicit sciatic motor response. The level of patient discomfort was significantly less in the LI group in comparison with the SI and LO groups.ConclusionThe LI approach required less time to complete the infragluteal sciatic nerve block procedure and it was more comfortable for the patients in comparison to the SO, SI and LO approaches.
Parker Flex‐Tip or standard tracheal tube for percutaneous emergency airway access?
Authors: BAKER P. A. , FERNANDEZ T. M. A. , HAMAEKERS A. E. , THOMPSON J. M. D. 
Published: December 2012

BackgroundPercutaneous emergency airway access (PEAA) can be established utilising a scalpel, bougie and cuffed tracheal tube. The study compared the Parker Flex‐Tip tracheal tube with a standard tracheal tube for PEAA in cadavers. We hypothesised that a standard tracheal tube would be more likely to advance over a bougie into the trachea during a PEAA procedure than a Parker Flex‐Tip tracheal tube.MethodsThree anaesthetists performed a PEAA with a scalpel, bougie and cuffed tracheal tube, 12 times each. Recorded times included: loading the tracheal tube onto the bougie and advancing the tube over the bougie to the skin, advancing the tube through the skin into the trachea and completion of the whole procedure. Subjective opinion regarding the ease of tube insertion was recorded by visual analogue scoring.ResultsSubjective opinion, overall time and time to complete each component of the procedure were not significantly affected by the type of tube used. The mean time for three novice anaesthetists to complete PEAA on a cadaver was 37.5 (8.8) s, after 1 h of training. In two of the 12 cadavers, the cricothyroid membrane could not be palpated or located with the scalpel.ConclusionThe Parker Flex‐Tip tube and a standard tracheal tube perform equally well during PEAA procedures on adult cadavers.
Approaching the Prevalence of the Full Spectrum of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders in a South African Population‐Based Study
Authors: May Philip A. , Blankenship Jason , Marais Anna‐Susan , Gossage J. Phillip , Kalberg Wendy O. , Barnard Ronel , De Vries Marlene , Robinson Luther K. , Adnams Colleen M. , Buckley David , Manning Melanie , Jones Kenneth L. , Parry Charles , Hoyme H. Eugene , Seedat Soraya 
Published: December 2012

BackgroundThe prevalence and characteristics of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) were determined in this fourth study of first‐grade children in a South African community.MethodsActive case ascertainment methods were employed among 747 first‐grade pupils. The detailed characteristics of children within the continuum of FASD are contrasted with randomly selected, normal controls on (i) physical growth and dysmorphology; (ii) cognitive/behavioral characteristics; and (iii) maternal risk factors.ResultsThe rates of specific diagnoses within the FASD spectrum continue to be among the highest reported in any community in the world. The prevalence (per 1,000) is as follows: fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)—59.3 to 91.0; partial fetal alcohol syndrome (PFAS)—45.3 to 69.6; and alcohol‐related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND)—30.5 to 46.8. The overall rate of FASD is therefore 135.1 to 207.5 per 1,000 (or 13.6 to 20.9%). Clinical profiles of the physical and cognitive/behavioral traits of children with a specific FASD diagnosis and controls are provided for understanding the full spectrum of FASD in a community. The spectral effect is evident in the characteristics of the diagnostic groups and summarized by the total (mean) dysmorphology scores of the children: FAS = 18.9; PFAS = 14.3; ARND = 12.2; and normal controls, alcohol exposed = 8.2 and unexposed = 7.1. Documented drinking during pregnancy is significantly correlated with verbal (r = −0.253) and nonverbal ability (r = −0.265), negative behaviors (r = 0.203), and total dysmorphology score (r = 0.431). Other measures of drinking during pregnancy are significantly associated with FASD, including binge drinking as low as 3 drinks per episode on 2 days of the week.ConclusionsHigh rates of specific diagnoses within FASD were well documented in this new cohort of children. FASD persists in this community. The data reflect an increased ability to provide accurate and discriminating diagnoses throughout the continuum of FASD.
Expression of HIV gp120 protein increases sensitivity to the rewarding properties of methamphetamine in mice
Authors: Kesby James P. , Hubbard David T. , Markou Athina , Semenova Svetlana 
Published: December 2012

AbstractMethamphetamine abuse and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection induce neuropathological changes in corticolimbic brain areas involved in reward and cognitive function. Little is known about the combined effects of methamphetamine and HIV infection on cognitive and reward processes. The HIV/gp120 protein induces neurodegeneration in mice, similar to HIV‐induced pathology in humans. We investigated the effects of gp120 expression on associative learning, preference for methamphetamine and non‐drug reinforcers, and sensitivity to the conditioned rewarding properties of methamphetamine in transgenic (tg) mice expressing HIV/gp120 protein (gp120‐tg). gp120‐tg mice learned the operant response for food at the same rate as non‐tg mice. In the two‐bottle choice procedure with restricted access to drugs, gp120‐tg mice exhibited greater preference for methamphetamine and saccharin than non‐tg mice, whereas preference for quinine was similar between genotypes. Under conditions of unrestricted access to methamphetamine, the mice exhibited a decreased preference for increasing methamphetamine concentrations. However, male gp120‐tg mice showed a decreased preference for methamphetamine at lower concentrations than non‐tg male mice. gp120‐tg mice developed methamphetamine‐induced conditioned place preference at lower methamphetamine doses compared with non‐tg mice. No differences in methamphetamine pharmacokinetics were found between genotypes. These results indicate that gp120‐tg mice exhibit no deficits in associative learning or reward/motivational function for a natural reinforcer. Interestingly, gp120 expression resulted in increased preference for methamphetamine and a highly palatable non‐drug reinforcer (saccharin) and increased sensitivity to methamphetamine‐induced conditioned reward. These data suggest that HIV‐positive individuals may have increased sensitivity to methamphetamine, leading to high methamphetamine abuse potential in this population.
Courtship and mating in the crusader bug, Mictis profana (Fabricius)
Authors: Tatarnic Nikolai J , Spence John R 
Published: December 2012

AbstractMating behaviour in the crusader bug, Mictis profana (Heteroptera: Miridae) is described. Using scan samples of marked individuals in outdoor enclosures, it is shown that larger males secure more matings than do small males. From videotaped recordings of captive individuals, a series of stereotyped male courtship behaviours are documented, which appear to include the use of a putative weapon – the median abdominal tubercle – in tactile stimulation of the female. The fighting behaviour of this species based on videotaped observations of male–male combat over access to females was also described.
Australian survey of current practice and guideline use in adult cancer pain assessment and management: Perspectives of oncologists
Authors: Luckett Tim , Davidson Patricia Mary , Boyle Frances , Liauw Winston , Agar Meera , Green Anna , Lovell Melanie ,   ImPaCCT (Improving Palliative Care through Clinical Trials) and PoCoG (Psycho‐oncology Co‐operative Research Group) Symptom Cluster Collaborative
Published: December 2012

AbstractAimsCancer pain continues to be undertreated in up to half of cases, despite the availability of evidence‐based guidelines. This study aimed to: (i) identify barriers and facilitators to adult cancer pain assessment and management, as perceived by Australian health professionals; (ii) establish the perceived need for new Australian guidelines and implementation strategy; (iii) identify which guidelines are used; (iv) identify barriers and facilitators to guideline use. This article focuses on the perceptions of responding oncologists.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey was administered online. Invitations were circulated via peak bodies and clinical leaders. Comments were coded independently by two researchers.ResultsIn all 76 oncologists self‐reported high concordance with evidence‐based recommendations, except validated pain scales. Perceived barriers to pain management included insufficient non‐pharmacological interventions, access to /coordination between services, and time. Only 22 percent of respondents reported using pain guidelines. Perceived barriers to guideline use included lack of access, awareness and any single standard. Respondents were generally supportive of new Australian guidelines and especially an implementation strategy.ConclusionBarriers to evidence‐based practice and guideline use identified by our survey might be addressed via a clinical pathway that gives step‐by‐step guidance on evidence‐based practice along with a framework for evaluation. Particular attention should be paid to promoting use of validated scales, patient education and non‐pharmacological interventions, training of an appropriately skilled workforce and improving care coordination. Challenges are discussed.
Risk Premium and Convexity Premium in the Stock Return
Authors: Park Keehwan , Choi Pilsun , Kim Saekwon 
Published: December 2012

AbstractWe model and estimate equity premium in a general equilibrium setting. It is done by reframing the Merton's model (1974) in the context of general equilibrium models such as Ahn and Thompson (1988) and Bates (1991). Our approach is novel in its attempt to derive equity premium by evaluating the equity returns dynamics in equilibrium and to thereby estimate non‐risk convexity premium for equity as well as its risk premium. While risk premium is generally due to systematic risk, convexity premium is due to the option‐like feature of equity, and exists under returns discontinuity and risk neutrality. We model equity premium such that the convexity premium pays for the liquidity and information costs of equity. We calibrate our equity premium model and report that the convexity premium counts for about one third of our predicted equity premium. We find relevance for our non‐risk convexity premium in relation to the premium puzzle and anomalies in the stock market.