bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Different DNA Concentration Methods on Performance of Non-Invasive Fetal Y-Chromosomal Short Tandem Repeat Profiling from Maternal Plasma
Authors: Repiská Gabriela , Sedláčková Tatiana , Szemes Tomáš , Minárik Gabriel
Published: January 2015

Background: The accuracy and reliability of detection of free fetal DNA in plasma of pregnant women can be significantly improved by increasing the overall DNA concentration following the isolation from maternal plasma. The aim of our study was to compare DNA concentration methods on samples with free fetal DNA. Materials and Methods: DNA isolated from plasma samples of pregnant women carrying a male fetus were concentrated by 3 different methods: vacuum concentration, centrifugal filters and spin columns. Their performance was evaluated using PCR-based Y-chromosomal short tandem repeat (Y-STR) genotyping of the fetus. Results: A statistically significant difference was found between the 3 tested methods (F = 15.57, p < 0.0001). Using vacuum concentration 85.3% of paternally inherited Y-STR alleles were correctly identified. A significantly smaller proportion of alleles was correctly identified in samples concentrated by centrifugal filters and spin columns - 75.9 and 66.5%, respectively. Discussion: The highest proportion of paternally inherited Y-STR alleles was found in samples concentrated with the use of vacuum concentration. This concentration procedure does not require further handling of the sample either, which is an advantage because it avoids potential sample contamination. On the other hand, when automation is considered, vacuum concentration is less suitable because of an uneven and unpredictable sample evaporation rate.
Molecular Insights into the Possible Role of Kir4.1 and Kir5.1 in Thyroid Hormone Biosynthesis
Authors: Ramos Helton Estrela , Dias da Silva Magnus Régios , Carré Aurore , Silva Jr. Joaquim Custódio , Paninka Rolf Matias , Oliveira Taise Lima , Tron Elodie , Castanet Mireille , Polak Michel
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Thyroid morphogenesis is a complex process. Inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) genes play a role in hormone release, cell excitability, pH and K+ homeostasis in many tissues. Objectives: To investigate the thyroid developmental expression of three members, Kir4.1, Kir4.2 and Kir5.1, in mice. To postulate the K+ channel role in thyroid hormone secretion. Material and Methods: Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of Kir4.1, Kir4.2 and Kir5.1 in mice of different stages (E13.5-E18.5). Results: mRNA for Kir4.1, Kir4.2 and Kir5.1 were identified and increased with age in mice. Both Kir4.1 and Kir4.2 genes are better expressed after E16.5. Kir4.2 greatly increases from E13.5 to E16.5 (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Quantitative PCR shows that the mouse thyroid presents increased expression for Kir channels during development. The role of Kir in thyroid morphogenesis and differentiation might be understood in future studies. We speculate that thyroglobulin trafficking might be modulated by Kir4.1/5.1.
An Immunodiagnostic Assay for Quantitation of Specific IgE to the Major Pollen Allergen Component, Pas n 1, of the Subtropical Bahia Grass
Authors: Timbrell Victoria L. , Riebelt Lindsay , Simmonds Claire , Solley Graham , Smith William B. , Mclean-Tooke Andrew , van Nunen Sheryl , Smith Peter K. , Upham John W. , Langguth Daman , Davies Janet M.
Published: January 2015

Background: Pollens of the Panicoideae subfamily of grasses including Bahia (Paspalum notatum) are important allergen sources in subtropical regions of the world. An assay for specific IgE to the major molecular allergenic component, Pas n 1, of Bahia grass pollen (BaGP) would have immunodiagnostic utility for patients with pollen allergy in these regions. Methods: Biotinylated Pas n 1 purified from BaGP was coated onto streptavidin ImmunoCAPs. Subjects were assessed by clinical history of allergic rhinitis and skin prick test (SPT) to aeroallergens. Serum total, BaGP-specific and Pas n 1-specific IgE were measured. Results: Pas n 1 IgE concentrations were highly correlated with BaGP SPT (r = 0.795, p < 0.0001) and BaGP IgE (r = 0.915, p < 0.0001). At 0.23 kU/l Pas n 1 IgE, the diagnostic sensitivity (92.4%) and specificity (93.1%) for the detection of BaGP allergy was high (area under receiver operator curve 0.960, p < 0.0001). The median concentrations of Pas n 1 IgE in non-atopic subjects (0.01 kU/l, n = 67) and those with other allergies (0.02 kU/l, n = 59) showed no inter-group difference, whilst grass pollen-allergic patients with allergic rhinitis showed elevated Pas n 1 IgE (6.71 kU/l, n = 182, p < 0.0001). The inter-assay coefficient of variation for the BaGP-allergic serum pool was 6.92%. Conclusions: Pas n 1 IgE appears to account for most of the BaGP-specific IgE. This molecular component immunoassay for Pas n 1 IgE has potential utility to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of diagnosis of BaGP allergy for patients in subtropical regions.
End-Stage Renal Disease Attributed to Acute Tubular Necrosis in the United States, 2001-2010
Authors: Foley Robert N. , Sexton Donal J. , Reule Scott , Solid Craig , Chen Shu-Cheng , Collins Allan J.
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: Though end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is increasingly attributed to acute tubular necrosis (ATN), contemporary trends in the rates of incidence and recovery of renal function are poorly defined. Hence, we set out to describe the clinical epidemiology of ESRD due to ATN between 2001 and 2010. Methods: We examined United States Renal Data System data (n = 1,070,490) for 2001 through 2010 to calculate the incidence rates and rates of renal recovery and death for patients with ESRD due to ATN treated with renal replacement therapy (RRT, n = 27,603). Results: Standardized incidence ratios increased between 2001-2002 and 2009-2010 in the overall population (ratio 2.14), having risen in all demographic subgroups examined. Recovery of renal function was more likely in patients with ATN than in matched controls (cumulative incidence 23% vs. 2% at 12 weeks, 34% vs. 4% at 1 year), as was death (cumulative incidence 38% vs. 27% at 1 year). Hazards ratios for renal recovery increased stepwise with year of RRT inception to 1.34 (95% confidence interval 1.24-1.45) for 2009-2010 (vs. 2001-2002). In contrast, hazards ratios for death declined stepwise to 0.83 (0.79-0.87) in 2009-2010. Conclusion: While the incidence of ESRD attributed to ATN has increased, prospects of renal recovery and survival have also increased. Despite substantial mortality risk on RRT, renal recovery is not a rare occurrence.
Yes-Associated Protein Expression is a Predictive Marker for Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Liver Transplantation
Authors: Li Hua , Wang Shouhua , Wang Guoying , Zhang ZhiGang , Wu Xiaocai , Zhang Tong , Fu Binsheng , Chen Guihua
Published: January 2015

Purpose: To explore the expression of Yes-associated protein (YAP) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients, and assess its prognostic value to recurrence of HCC after liver transplantation (LT). Methods: Collected data of 105 consecutive patients undergoing LT for HCC were analyzed retrospectively. The immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of YAP, Mst1, Lats1/2, pYAP, pLats1/2 and pMst1/2 in tumor tissues. Contingency table and χ2-test were used to investigate the correlation between expression of YAP, Mst1, Lats1/2 and clinical characteristics. Univariate survival analysis and Multivariate Cox regression analysis were also performed to analyze the correlation of clinical and pathological factors with tumor recurrence after LT. The Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used to analyze HCC-specific disease-free survival (DFS) rate. Results: Forty patients fulfilled Milan criteria with 1-, 2-, 3- and 5-years DFS of 86.7, 84.6, 84, 84%, respectively. The positive rates of YAP, Lats1/2, Mst1 in HCC were 51.4, 45.7, 64.8%, respectively. YAP expression in HCC tumors was significantly associated with tumor size (p = 0.041), venous infiltration (p = 0.002), AJCC tumor stage (p = 0.027). Lats1/2 expression was significantly associated with tumor size (p = 0.001) and AJCC tumor stage (p = 0.019). Mst1 expression was also significantly associated with tumor size (p = 0.042). HCC-specific DFS was significantly longer for patients with YAP negative expression compared with patients with YAP positive expression (1-, 2-, 3- and 5-years DFS of 71.7, 65.3, 65.3, 65.3 vs. 42.5, 36.6, 32.5, 30.4%, respectively, log-rank = 12.89, p < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that YAP expression (HR = 2.011, p = 0.020) in HCC was an independent prognostic factor for HCC-specific DFS after liver transplantation. Conclusions: YAP is an independent prognostic marker for tumor recurrence for HCC patients after liver transplantation.
Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment to Enhance Skin Permeation of Tranexamic Acid with Minimal Skin Disruption
Authors: Hsiao Chien-Yu , Sung Hsin-Ching , Hu Sindy , Huang Chun-Hsun
Published: January 2015

Background: Topical tranexamic acid has been used to treat melasma and as a skin whitener. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the skin histology and permeation of tranexamic acid after fractional and conventional CO2 laser pretreatment. Methods: The effect of treatment with different strengths of fractional and conventional CO2 laser treatment was examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Permeation of tranexamic acid through porcine skin was tested in vitro using a Franz diffusion chamber. Results: Four passes of fractional laser treatment caused less skin damage than conventional laser treatment at the same fluency. Fractional laser treatment caused at least 85% of the cumulative tranexamic aid permeation at the same fluency, and as fluency increased, the number of passes needed to achieve this goal decreased. Conclusion: Fractional laser treatment is as effective as conventional laser treatment in enhancing tranexamic acid delivery and causes less skin damage.
Positive Reactions to Nickel on a Patch Test Do Not Predict Clinical Outcome of Nickel Alloy-Based Atrial Septal Defect Occluder Implantation
Authors: Kim Hee Joo , Shin Jung U. , Lee Jungsoo , Lee Hemin , Jin Shan , Kim Seo Hyeong , Noh Ji Yeon , Lee Kwang Hoon
Published: January 2015

Background: Patch testing is thought to be necessary prior to metal device implantation to rule out metal allergy-related complications; however, there are controversies over the effects of nickel allergy on the outcome of nickel alloy-based device implantation. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the adverse events in a Korean population of nickel allergy patients who underwent atrial septal defect (ASD) closure with a nickel-titanium alloy-based device. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent ASD closure with a nitinol device. Results: Among 38 patients who had ASD closure, 4 of 5 nickel-allergic patients and 10 of the 33 non-nickel-allergic patients had post-closure complications. All patients fared well, without device failure culminating in device removal. Conclusion: In this study, positive reactions to nickel in a patch test were not associated with adverse early or late outcomes following ASD closure with a nickel alloy-based device.
Low-Dose RATG with or without Basiliximab in Renal Transplantation: A Matched-Cohort Observational Study
Authors: Gentile Giorgio , Somma Chiara , Gennarini Alessia , Mastroluca Daniela , Rota Giovanni , Lacanna Francesco , Locatelli Bruno , Remuzzi Giuseppe , Ruggenenti Piero
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: In renal transplantation, peri-operative low-dose rabbit-antithymocyte-globulin (RATG) plus basiliximab induction prevented acute allograft rejection more effectively than post-operative RATG plus basiliximab induction. We investigated the specific antirejection contribution of basiliximab in this context. Methods: This single-center, observational, matched-cohort study evaluated allograft rejections (primary outcome), steroid exposure and side effects, GFR (iohexol plasma clearance) and treatment costs in 16 deceased-donor renal transplant recipients induced with RATG (0.5 mg/kg/day) and 32 age-, gender- and treatment-matched reference-patients given RATG plus basiliximab (20 mg on days 0 and 4). Results: Induction was well tolerated. At 18 months, 8 patients (50%) vs. 3 reference-patients (9.4%) rejected the graft [HR (95% CI): 6.53 (1.73-24.70), p = 0.006]. Difference was significant (p < 0.01) even after adjusting for recipient/donor age and gender, cold ischemia time and HLA mismatches. There were 1 antibody-mediated rejection and 2 moderate cellular rejections in patients vs. none in reference-patients (p = 0.032). The median (interquartile range) prednisone cumulative dose was remarkably higher in patients than reference-patients [4.78 (1.12-6.10) vs. 0.19 (0.18-3.81) grams, p = 0.002]. Three patients vs. 24 reference-patients were off-steroid at study end (p < 0.001). Three patients vs. no reference-patient developed new-onset diabetes (p = 0.003). Both inductions similarly depleted B-cells. Outcomes of AZA- vs. MMF-treated participants were similar. GFR was similar in all groups. Compared to MMF, AZA therapy saved ≈ EUR 2,500/year and by month 14.3 post-transplant compensated basiliximab costs. Conclusion: In renal transplantation, basiliximab plus peri-operative low-dose RATG more efficiently prevented allograft rejection than RATG monotherapy, and minimized steroid exposure and toxicity. AZA- vs MMF-based maintenance immunosuppression largely compensated the extra costs of basiliximab.
Beneficial Outcome of Losartan Therapy Depends on Type of
FBN1
Mutation in Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Franken Romy , den Hartog Alexander W. , Radonic Teodora , Micha Dimitra , Maugeri Alessandra , van Dijk Fleur S. , Meijers-Heijboer Hanne E. , Timmermans Janneke , Scholte Arthur J. , van den Berg Maarten P. , Groenink Maarten , Mulder Barbara J.M. , Zwinderman Aeilko H. , de Waard Vivian , Pals Gerard
Published: January 2015

Background—

It has been shown that losartan reduces aortic dilatation in patients with Marfan syndrome. However, treatment response is highly variable. This study investigates losartan effectiveness in genetically classified subgroups.

Methods and Results—

In this predefined substudy of COMPARE, Marfan patients were randomized to daily receive losartan 100 mg or no losartan. Aortic root dimensions were measured by MRI at baseline and after 3 years.
FBN1
mutations were classified based on fibrillin-1 protein effect into (1) haploinsufficiency, decreased amount of normal fibrillin-1, or (2) dominant negative, normal fibrillin-1 abundance with mutant fibrillin-1 incorporated in the matrix. A pathogenic
FBN1
mutation was found in 117 patients, of whom 79 patients were positive for a dominant negative mutation (67.5%) and 38 for a mutation causing haploinsufficiency (32.5%). Baseline characteristics between treatment groups were similar. Overall, losartan significantly reduced aortic root dilatation rate (no losartan, 1.3±1.5 mm/3 years, n=59 versus losartan, 0.8±1.4 mm/3 years, n=58;
P
=0.009). However, losartan reduced only aortic root dilatation rate in haploinsufficient patients (no losartan, 1.8±1.5 mm/3 years, n=21 versus losartan 0.5±0.8 mm/3 years, n=17;
P
=0.001) and not in dominant negative patients (no losartan, 1.2±1.7 mm/3 years, n=38 versus losartan 0.8±1.3 mm/3 years, n=41;
P
=0.197).

Conclusions—

Marfan patients with haploinsufficient
FBN1
mutations seem to be more responsive to losartan therapy for inhibition of aortic root dilatation rate compared with dominant negative patients. Additional treatment strategies are needed in Marfan patients with dominant negative
FBN1
mutations.

Clinical Trial Registration—

http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/index.asp
; Unique Identifier: NTR1423.
Optical Coherence Tomographic Observation of In-Stent Neoatherosclerosis in Lesions With More Than 50% Neointimal Area Stenosis After Second-Generation Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation
Authors: Lee Seung-Yul , Hur Seung-Ho , Lee Sang-Gon , Kim Sang-Wook , Shin Dong-Ho , Kim Jung-Sun , Kim Byeong-Keuk , Ko Young-Guk , Choi Donghoon , Jang Yangsoo , Hong Myeong-Ki
Published: January 2015

Background—

Despite the enhanced properties of the second-generation drug-eluting stent (DES), its association with neoatherosclerosis has not been sufficiently evaluated. Therefore, we sought to evaluate and compare neoatherosclerosis in second-generation DESs to first-generation DESs.

Methods and Results—

A total of 212 DES-treated patients with >50% percent neointimal cross-sectional area stenosis were retrospectively enrolled from the Korean multicenter optical coherence tomography (OCT) registry. Within this population, 111 patients had a second-generation DES (40 zotarolimus, 36 everolimus, and 35 biolimus) and 101 patients had a first-generation (65 sirolimus and 36 paclitaxel) DES. Neoatherosclerosis on OCT was defined as neointima formation with the presence of lipids or calcification. OCT-determined neoatherosclerosis was identified in 27.4% (58/212) of all DES-treated lesions. The frequency of neoatherosclerosis increased with the stent age. Stent age was shorter in the second-generation DES group (12.4 months versus 55.4 months,
P
<0.001), and neoatherosclerosis was less frequently observed in that group (10.8% versus 45.5%,
P
<0.001). However, after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors, chronic kidney disease (odds ratio, 4.113; 95% confidence interval, 1.086–15.575;
P
=0.037), >70 mg/dL of low-density cholesterol at follow-up OCT (odds ratio, 2.532; 95% confidence interval, 1.054–6.084;
P
=0.038), and stent age (odds ratio, 1.710; 95% confidence interval, 1.403–2.084;
P
<0.001) were all independent predictors for neoatherosclerosis, whereas the type of DES (first- versus second-generation) was not. Patients with neoatherosclerosis showed a higher rate of acute coronary syndrome at follow-up OCT (19.0% versus 3.9%, respectively,
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

The second-generation DES is not more protective against neoatherosclerosis compared with the first-generation DES.
Neurological Complications and Outcomes in the Berlin Heart EXCOR
®
Pediatric Investigational Device Exemption Trial
Authors: Jordan Lori C. , Ichord Rebecca N. , Reinhartz Olaf , Humpl Tilman , Pruthi Sumit , Tjossem Christine , Rosenthal David N.
Published: January 2015

Background

The Berlin Heart
EXCOR
®
ventricular assist device has been approved for use in the United States as a bridge to heart transplantation in children. We sought to characterize neurological events in children supported with the Berlin Heart
EXCOR
®
device.

Methods and Results

The multicenter prospective cohort consisted of all 204 children implanted with the Berlin Heart
EXCOR
®
device at 47 centers in North America between May 2007 and December 2010. There were 73 neurological events in 59 patients, with 29% of the cohort experiencing ≥1 neurological event. Events included 52 strokes in 43 patients (21% of the cohort). The neurological event rate was 0.51 events per 100 patient‐days. Many of the neurological events occurred early in the course of support, with 30 events recorded during the first 14 days of support. The mortality rate in participants with at least 1 neurological event was 42% (25 of 59), significantly higher than the 18% mortality rate (26 of 145) for those who did not have a neurological event (
P
=0.0006). Risk‐factor analysis did not identify significant preimplantation predictors of neurological injury.

Conclusions

Of children treated with the Berlin Heart
EXCOR
®
device as a bridge to transplant, 29% experienced at least 1 neurological event. The majority of neurological events were ischemic strokes, and many of those occurred early in the course of support. Neurological injury was the leading cause of death after implantation of the Berlin Heart
EXCOR
®
device. Risk stratification for stroke or neurological injury is not possible based on baseline preimplantation characteristics.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique Identifier:
NCT
00583661.
The spring-dwelling amphipod genus Lyurella (Peracarida, Amphipoda): systematics, distribution, and affinity, with description of the second representative from the Black Sea coast region
Authors: Sidorov D. A.
Published: January 2015

The hitherto monotypic, crangonyctid genusLyurellaDerzhavin, 1939, despite belonging to one of the most diverse and widely distributed amphipod families in the fresh waters of the Holarctic, is poorly studied due to its rarity and its limited distribution in the Caucasian region. Until now, it has been solely represented by its type species,Lyurella hyrcanaDerzhavin, 1939 from the Lankaran lowlands of Azerbaijan and from Lahidjan in northern Iran. In this paper, a new species,Lyurella shepsiensis, is described from a spring in the Shepsi River basin in the Tuapse District of Russia. This is the first representative of this genus from Russia. The new species is closely similar toL. hyrcana, differing mainly in the morphology of the gnathopods and pereopods. This latter species is also redescribed herein, based on new collections that extend its known geographic range.
Genetic diversity and differentiation in the swimming crab, Portunus trituberculatus (Miers, 1876) (Decapoda, Brachyura) along the coast of China based on fluorescent AFLP markers: implications for conservation and genetic improvement
Authors: Li Xiaoying , Dong Zhiguo , Su Hongbo , Zhang Qingqi , Gao Huan , Yan Binlun
Published: January 2015

Using fluorescent AFLP-markers, the genetic diversity and structure of six geographical populations of the swimming crab,Portunus trituberculatus(Miers, 1876), from the coast of China were analysed to assess their genetic resource state. Eight primer combinations generated 925 loci among 85 individuals, and revealed a high polymorphism within these populations that varied from 57.41% (Zhoushan population) to 76.86% (Dalian population). According to the combination of percentage of polymorphic loci (PPL) and Shannon’s information index (I), the populations from Zhangzhou, Dongying and Dalian showed more genetic variation than the Lianyungang, Zhanjiang and Zhoushan populations. The gene flow () and across all populations overall were 1.935 and 0.205, respectively, showing moderate genetic differentiation. Differentiation was highest in the Zhoushan and Zhanjiang populations, and the geographical distribution and UPGMA cluster tree were not fully accordant. Neutrality test results revealed that the Zhangzhou population faced a smaller selective pressure than the other five populations (). In general, a high genetic diversity among theP. trituberculatuspopulations was observed along the coast of China, especially in the Zhangzhou, Dongying, Dalian and Lianyungang populations, while a pronounced level () of genetic differentiation has occurred between the Zhoushan population and the other populations. Therefore, these findings have the following implications for conservation and genetic improvement: (1) high diversity levels and good genetic resources, especially in the Zhangzhou population, which could lay the foundations for breeding research and genetic improvement; (2) the importance of preventing species escape and gene pool contamination in ex-situ conservation and species introduction programs in the Zhoushan population.
The reinstatement and rediagnosis of the madagascan genus Rhodocodon (Asparagaceae, Scilloideae), with validation and remarks on H. Perrier’s taxa
Authors: Knirsch Walter , Martínez Azorín Mario , Pfosser Martin , Wetschnig Wolfgang
Published: January 2015

The genus Rhodocodon is here reinstated based on morphological, biogeographical and molecular evidence. On the basis of the work presented by H. Perrier de la Bâthie in Flora of Madagascar, one subgenus and ten species of Rhodocodon are validated here. Furthermore, Rhodocodon madagascariensis and R. urgineoides are lectotypified, and Hyacinthus cryptopodus and Urginea mascarenensis are transferred to Rhodocodon. A complete morphological description for all 13 accepted species of Rhodocodon is provided, including data on biology, ecology and distribution. Furthermore, an identification key for the Rhodocodon species is presented.
Drimia edwardsii (Asparagaceae, Scilloideae), a new urgineoid species from the Mkhomazi River Valley of eastern South Africa
Authors: Crouch Neil R. , Martinez-Azorin Mario
Published: January 2015

A new species endemic to South Africa, Drimia edwardsii, is described and illustrated, with data provided on its morphology, ecology and distribution. The species appears to be closely related to Drimia delagoensis and Urginea lydenburgensis, and whereas all are synanthous and produce small, pale-brownish campanulate flowers, several leaf and bulb features clearly distinguish the new species.
Sensitivity of C-Band Polarimetric Radar–Based Drop Size Estimates to Maximum Diameter
Authors: Carey Lawrence D. , Petersen Walter A.
Published: January 2015

Estimating raindrop size has been a long-standing objective of polarimetric radar–based precipitation retrieval methods. The relationship between the differential reflectivity Zdr and the median volume diameter D0 is typically derived empirically using raindrop size distribution observations from a disdrometer, a raindrop physical model, and a radar scattering model. Because disdrometers are known to undersample large raindrops, the maximum drop diameter Dmax is often an assumed parameter in the rain physical model. C-band Zdr is sensitive to resonance scattering at drop diameters larger than 5 mm, which falls in the region of uncertainty for Dmax. Prior studies have not accounted for resonance scattering at C band and Dmax uncertainty in assessing potential errors in drop size retrievals. As such, a series of experiments are conducted that evaluate the effect of Dmax parameterization on the retrieval error of D0 from a fourth-order polynomial function of C-band Zdr by varying the assumed Dmax through the range of assumptions found in the literature. Normalized bias errors for estimating D0 from C-band Zdr range from −8% to 15%, depending on the postulated error in Dmax. The absolute normalized bias error increases with C-band Zdr, can reach 10% for Zdr as low as 1–1.75 dB, and can increase from there to values as large as 15%–45% for larger Zdr, which is a larger potential bias error than is found at S and X band. Uncertainty in Dmax assumptions and the associated potential D0 retrieval errors should be noted and accounted for in future C-band polarimetric radar studies.
Bridging Past and Future Climate across Paleoclimatic Reconstructions, Observations, and Models: A Hydroclimate Case Study
Authors: Smerdon Jason E. , Cook Benjamin I. , Cook Edward R. , Seager Richard
Published: January 2015

Potential biases in tree-ring reconstructed Palmer drought severity index (PDSI) are evaluated using Thornthwaite (TH), Penman–Monteith (PM), and self-calibrating Penman–Monteith (SC) PDSI in three diverse regions of the United States and tree-ring chronologies from the North American drought atlas (NADA). Minimal differences are found between the three PDSI reconstructions and all compare favorably to independently reconstructed Thornthwaite-based PDSI from the NADA. Reconstructions are bridged with model-derived PDSI_TH and PDSI_PM, which both closely track modeled soil moisture (near surface and full column) during the twentieth century. Differences between modeled moisture-balance metrics only emerge in twenty-first-century projections. These differences confirm the tendency of PDSI_TH to overestimate drying when temperatures exceed the range of the normalization interval; the more physical accounting of PDSI_PM compares well with modeled soil moisture in the projection interval. Remaining regional differences in the secular behavior of projected soil moisture and PDSI_PM are interpreted in terms of underlying physical processes and temporal sampling. Results demonstrate the continued utility of PDSI as a metric of surface moisture balance while additionally providing two recommendations for future work: 1) PDSI_PM (or similar moisture-balance metrics) compare well to modeled soil moisture and are an appropriate means of representing soil-moisture balance in model simulations and 2) although PDSI_PM is more physically appropriate than PDSI_TH, the latter metric does not bias tree-ring reconstructions of past hydroclimate variability and, as such, reconstructions targeting PDSI_TH can be used with confidence in data–model comparisons. These recommendations and the collective results of this study thus provide a framework for comparing hydroclimate variability within paleoclimatic, observational, and modeled data.
Venom ophthalmia from Naja mossambica in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa: a reminder to all that for ocular chemical injury, dilution is the solution
Authors: Hoffman Jeremy
Published: January 2015

Venom ophthalmia caused by venoms of spitting elapids such as the Mozambique Spitting Cobra ( Naja mossambica) is seen in regions where people live in close proximity to elapids, such as in the KwaZulu Natal region of South Africa. We report such a case in a 43-year-old woman who presented to Mosvold Hospital, a district hospital in South Africa. Clinical features and best practice management of venom ophthalmia will be discussed.
Assessment of spontaneous hemopneumothorax: Indications for surgery
Authors: Inafuku Kenji , Maehara Takamitsu , Yamamoto Taketsugu , Masuda Munetaka
Published: January 2015

Background

Although spontaneous hemopneumothorax is rare, emergency surgery may be necessary if massive bleeding is present.

Methods

We examined therapeutic strategies and outcomes as well as background factors in 16 patients with spontaneous hemopneumothorax treated at our hospital between April 2002 and August 2013.

Results

Emergency surgery was performed in 3 patients, all of whom were hemodynamically unstable. Elective surgery was performed in 7 patients, all of whom showed continuous bleeding from a pleural cavity drain. The surgery consisted of intrapleural hematoma removal, hemostasis, and bullectomy; 3-port thoracoscopy was used in all of the surgical cases. Six patients, none of whom showed continuous bleeding, recovered with conservative therapy. Comparing the conservative therapy and surgery groups revealed the mean continuous bleeding volume and total blood loss to be significantly greater in the latter, but no significant difference was noted between the two groups in terms of the initial bleeding volume following tube thoracostomy. None of the cases required a blood transfusion.

Conclusions

Spontaneous hemopneumothorax is not necessarily an indication for surgery, and even when the initial volume of blood drained through the chest tube is large, some patients can still be treated conservatively with careful monitoring of vital signs and continuous bleeding volumes. However, it is important not to miss the optimal timing of surgery in order to avoid administering unnecessary blood transfusions to young patients.
Use of Inertial Sensors to Predict Pivot-Shift Grade and Diagnose an ACL Injury During Preoperative Testing
Authors: Borgstrom Per Henrik , Markolf Keith L. , Wang Yan , Xu Xiaoyu , Yang Paul R. , Joshi Nirav B. , Yeranosian Michael G. , Petrigliano Frank A. , Hame Sharon L. , Kaiser William J. , McAllister David R.
Published: January 2015

Background:

The pivot-shift (PS) examination is used to demonstrate knee instability and detect anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Prior studies using inertial sensors identified the ACL-deficient knee with reasonable accuracy, but none addressed the more difficult problem of using these sensors to determine whether a subject has an ACL deficiency and to correctly assign a PS grade to a patient’s knee.

Hypothesis:

Inertial sensor data recorded during a PS examination can accurately predict ACL deficiency and the PS score assigned by the examining physician.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 32 patients with unilateral ACL deficiency and 29 with intact ACLs in both knees had inertial sensor modules strapped to the tibia and femur of each limb for preoperative PS testing under anesthesia. Support vector machine (SVM) methods assessed PS grades on the basis of these data, with the examiner’s clinical grading shift used as ground truth. A fusion of regression and SVM classification techniques diagnosed ACL deficiency.

Results:

The clinically determined PS grades of all 122 knees were as follows: 0 (n = 69), +1 (n = 23), +2 (n = 27), and +3 (n = 3). The SVM classification analysis was 77% accurate in correctly classifying these grades, with 98% of computed PS grades falling within ±1 grade of the clinically determined value. The system fusion algorithm diagnosed ACL deficiency in an individual with an overall accuracy of 97%. This method yielded 6% false negatives and 0% false positives.

Conclusion:

This study used inertial sensor technology with SVM algorithms to accurately determine clinically assigned PS grades in ACL-intact and ACL-deficient knees. By extending the assessment to a separate group of patients without ACL injury, the inertial sensor data demonstrated highly accurate diagnosis of ACL deficiency.
Evaluating Reading and Mathematics Instruction for Students With Learning Disabilities
Authors: McKenna John William , Shin Mikyung , Ciullo Stephen
Published: January 2015

Systematically observing instruction for students with learning disabilities (LD) provides information regarding the quality of school-based interventions, allocation of instructional time, and other implementation variables associated with student outcomes. In this synthesis, observation studies of reading and mathematics instruction from 2000 to 2013 were identified through a systematic literature search. The purpose was to understand findings from observations of typical practice for students with LD during an era of increased exposure to evidence-based practices, educational policy reforms, and reports on reading and mathematics designed to influence instruction, and amid a period of increased academic expectations. Eleven studies focusing on academic instruction for students with LD were identified and reviewed. Cognitive strategy instruction, differentiated instruction, and opportunities for independent application (i.e., text reading, problem solving) were reported infrequently across the published observational research. However, findings provide some evidence of improved teacher use of effective instructional practices in several areas compared with earlier observation study syntheses. Implications for practice and areas for future research are discussed.
Concerns About Crime for Self and Others
Authors: Haynes Stacy H. , Rader Nicole E.
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine how individual- and contextual-level factors affect both personal concerns about crime and concerns about crime for one’s spouse or significant other, family, and friends. We were also interested in whether and how these factors differed by gender. We combined individual-level data from a telephone survey of U.S. adults ( N = 1,207) with contextual-level data from the U.S. Census, the American Community Survey, and the Uniform Crime Reports. We found that respondents were more concerned about crime for others than for themselves. Results from our ordered logit models showed that concerns about crime for self and others were greater for respondents who felt less safe from crime and for respondents who used constrained behaviors. Personal concerns about crime were greater for women and concerns about crime for one’s spouse or significant other were greater for men. Contextual-level factors had little or no effect on concerns about crime. Regarding concerns about crime for one’s self and one’s spouse or significant other, there were also important differences by gender. For example, weapons behaviors mattered only for women and quality of life mattered only for men.
The bioactive composite film prepared from bacterial cellulose and modified by hydrolyzed gelatin peptide
Authors: Lin Shih-Bin , Chen Chia-Che , Chen Li-Chen , Chen Hui-Huang
Published: January 2015

The hydrolyzed gelatin peptides, obtained from the hydrolysis of Tilapia nilotica skin gelatin with alcalase and pronase E, were fractionated using an ultrafiltration system into hydrolyzed gelatin peptides-a (10 kDa membrane), hydrolyzed gelatin peptides-b1, and hydrolyzed gelatin peptides-b2 (5 kDa membrane) fractions. The highest oxygen radical absorbance capacity was observed in hydrolyzed gelatin peptides-b2, which contained more nonpolar amino acids than the other hydrolyzed gelatin peptides. Hydrolyzed gelatin peptides-b2 at a concentration of 12.5 mg/ml exhibited the highest proliferation ability and increased the expression of Type I procollagen mRNA, which indicated an enhanced collagen synthesis. Hydrolyzed gelatin peptides protected Detroit 551 cells from 2,2′-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride-induced oxidative damage and increased cell viability. Hydroxylpropylmethyl cellulose-modified bacterial cellulose and dried fabricated biofilm were less eligible for Detroit 551 cell proliferation than bacterial cellulose. The release of hydrolyzed gelatin peptides in bacterial cellulose film was slower than that in hydroxylpropylmethyl cellulose-modified bacterial cellulose and dried fabricated biofilm; thus, bacterial cellulose film and hydroxylpropylmethyl cellulose-modified bacterial cellulose and dried fabricated biofilm are suitable candidates for applications in delayed release type and rapid release type biofilms, respectively.
Federal Economic Development Transfers to State and Local Governments
Authors: Doamekpor Francois K. , Beckett Julia
Published: January 2015

This study examines the contribution of the federal government to community and regional economic development by exclusively analyzing data on intergovernmental transfers to state and local governments. The study covers the years 1940 through 2010. The intent is to explore and define the patterns and trends within the community and regional development data and establish the extent to which incrementalism served as a basis for setting aside resources for accomplishing economic development objectives. Our findings indicate that the data patterns, trends, and relationships are nonlinear and unsupportive of the “incrementalist” perspective to resource allocation commonly found in major funds within the public sector.
Educational Attainment
Authors: Pink-Harper Stephanie A.
Published: January 2015

In today’s globalized economy, universities serve as economic growth hubs and as facilitators of higher education. However, the perils of the most recent economic crisis have caused these institutions and their surrounding regional communities to experience an array of challenges. An abundance of the economic development literature consistently illustrates the vital role that human capital can have on a region’s economic prosperity. Thus, this research explores the role that human capital theoretical perspectives have in the production of the long-term stability of a region’s economic growth and development efforts. This research seeks to determine if the level of educational attainment affects the economic growth and development efforts of nonmetropolitan areas with or without a research university. The results of this research provide marginal empirical support for the human capital and institutional intellectual capital theoretical perspectives as promoting economic growth and development.
Luminal Toxin-Binding Agents for Clostridium difficile Infection
Authors: McCoy Ryan M. , Klick Andrew , Hill Steven , Dull Ryan B.
Published: January 2015

Objective:

To systematically search the literature for trials evaluating luminal toxin-binding agents (LTBAs) for Clostridium difficile infection (CDI).

Methods:

A systematic search was conducted utilizing PubMed and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts with the following terms: anion-exchange resins, C difficile, cholestyramine, tolevamer, and colestipol. Articles were included if published in the English language and reported clinical outcomes of more than 5 adult humans with CDI treated with LTBAs.

Results:

Nearly all clinical trials evaluated LTBA as monotherapy for CDI and LTBAs are inferior to standard therapy. In contemporary practice, LTBAs are employed as adjunctive or sequential therapy for which there is a paucity of data. Some data suggest potential efficacy for recurrent CDI. Current guidelines for CDI assert LTBAs are contraindicated due to drug–drug interactions with vancomycin. However, the impact of this interaction on clinical outcomes has not been evaluated, and it is unknown whether higher doses of vancomycin or separating the administration of LTBAs from vancomycin would mitigate this interaction.

Conclusion:

LTBA monotherapy is inferior to vancomycin and metronidazole for CDI. Some data indicate possible benefit in reducing recurrent CDI, but outcomes with adjunctive and/or sequential LTBAs are unavailable. Further studies are needed to investigate the role of LTBAs for CDI.
Modeling, parametric analysis and optimization of an anode-supported planar solid oxide fuel cell
Authors: Borji Mehdi , Atashkari Kazem , Nariman-zadeh Nader , Masoumpour Mehdi
Published: January 2015

Solid oxide fuel cell is a promising tool for distributed power generation systems. This type of power system will experience different conditions during its operating life. The present study aims to simulate mathematically a direct internal reforming planar type anode supported solid oxide fuel cell considering mass and energy conservation equations along with a complete electrochemical model. Two main reactions, namely water–gas shift reaction and methane steam reforming reaction, are considered as two dominant reactions occurring in a fuel cell. Such a model may be employed to examine the effect of different operating conditions on main solid oxide fuel cell parameters, such as temperature gradients, power, and efficiency. Furthermore, using such mathematical model, a multi-objective optimization procedure can be applied to determine maximum cell efficiency and output power under constraints such as the allowable temperature difference and limited operating potential. The selected design variables are air ratio, fuel utilization, average current density, steam to carbon ratio, and pre-reforming rate of methane. It has been revealed that any increase in pre-reforming rate of methane and steam to carbon ratio of the entering fuel will lead to efficiency penalty and more uniform temperature distribution along the cell. In addition, the more average current density increases, the less electric efficiency is achieved, and on the other hand, the more temperature difference along the cell is seen. Besides, it is shown that some interesting and important relationships as useful optimal design principles involved in the performance of solid oxide fuel cells can be discovered by Pareto based multi-objective optimization of the mathematically obtained model representing their electric performance. Such important optimal principles would not have been obtained without the use of both mathematical modeling and the Pareto optimization approach.
Incident syphilis infection among people who inject drugs in Tijuana, Mexico
Authors: Pines Heather A , Rusch Melanie L , Vera Alicia , Rangel Gudelia , Magis-Rodriguez Carlos , Strathdee Steffanie A
Published: January 2015

Summary

Given that syphilis is associated with HIV infection among people who inject drugs (PWID), we examined syphilis incidence among PWID in Tijuana, Mexico. From 2006 to 2007, 940 PWID (142 women and 798 men) were recruited via respondent-driven sampling and followed for 18 months. At semi-annual visits, participants were tested for syphilis and completed surveys, which collected information on socio-demographics, sexual behaviours, substance use and injection behaviours. Poisson regression was used to estimate syphilis incidence rates (IRs), incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Twenty-one participants acquired syphilis during follow-up (IR = 1.57 per 100 person-years, 95% CI: 1.02–2.41). In a multivariate analysis, syphilis incidence was higher among women (IRR = 3.90, 95% CI: 1.37–11.09), HIV-positive participants (IRR = 4.60, 95% CI: 1.58–13.39) and those who reported ever exchanging sex for drugs, money, or other goods (IRR = 2.74, 95% CI: 0.97–7.76), while syphilis incidence was lower among those living in Tijuana for a longer duration (IRR = 0.95 per year, 95% CI: 0.91–1.00) and those reporting at least daily injection drug use (past 6 months) (IRR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.09–0.54). Our findings suggest interventions that address the destabilising conditions associated with migration and integrate sexual and drug-related risk reduction strategies may help reduce syphilis incidence among PWID along the Mexico–US border.
Stepping up to strike: a union mobilization case study of Polish migrant workers in the Netherlands
Authors: Berntsen Lisa
Published: January 2015

This article examines a union mobilization of Polish temporary agency workers in the Netherlands. The case study contributes to the migrant organizing literature a micro-level account of the dynamics of mobilization from the viewpoint of the migrants and organizers involved. The findings emphasize the importance of key actors in building solidarities within and between different groups of workers in fragmented workplaces, with implications for unions seeking new ways to respond to changing employment practices. This study highlights some of the possibilities and limitations of organizing among contractually fragmented workforces.
Periductal Stromal Sarcoma of the Breast With Liposarcomatous Differentiation
Authors: White Sherrie Renee , Auguste Louis J. , Guo Hua , Bhuiya Tawfiqul
Published: January 2015

A biphasic tumor with features of benign ductal elements and a malignant stromal component that lacks the architecture of a phylloides tumor represents a diagnostic challenge. A 35-year-old woman presented with a painful mass located in the upper inner quadrant of the right breast. A biopsy revealed histologically that the tumor had a multinodular architecture with malignant spindle cells forming cuffs around multiple open benign ducts. No leaf-like architecture was present. In addition, liposarcomatous differentiation was seen in focal areas. Immunohistochemical staining showed positive for CD34, vimentin and CDK4, and negative for ER, PR, Her2/neu, CD10, CD117, p63, bcl-2, cytokeratin, and MDM2. A diagnosis of periductal stromal sarcoma with liposarcomatous differentiation was established. Following excision with mastectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy, the patient was disease-free for 10 years. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of periductal stromal sarcoma showing liposarcomatous differentiation.
Histopathology of Disseminated Mycobacterium bovis Infection Complicating Intravesical BCG Immunotherapy for Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Larsen Brandon T. , Smith Maxwell L. , Grys Thomas E. , Vikram Holenarasipur R. , Colby Thomas V.
Published: January 2015

Intravesical instillation of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is a mainstay of adjunctive therapy for superficial bladder cancer. Disseminated BCG infection (“BCG-osis”) after this therapy is rare and potentially life-threatening; only isolated case reports detail the histopathologic findings thereof, few of which had a diagnosis confirmed by molecular testing. We report 3 additional cases of BCG-osis complicating BCG therapy, all confirmed by cultures and molecular assays, including the first cases of wedge biopsy-confirmed BCG pneumonia and BCG olecranon bursitis. When suggested by a relevant clinical history, recognition of randomly distributed granulomas in any organ should prompt consideration of BCG-osis and liberal performance of AFB stains, aided by targeted molecular assays. Physicians should maintain a high index of suspicion when miliary infiltrates arise after intravesical BCG instillation, and close multidisciplinary communication is essential. Pathologist awareness of this rare cause of granulomatous inflammation aids recognition of BCG-osis and facilitates prompt initiation of antimycobacterial therapy.