bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmentally Relevant Level of Aflatoxin B1 Dysregulates Human Dendritic Cells Through Signaling on Key Toll-Like Receptors
Authors: Mohammadi Azam , Mehrzad Jalil , Mahmoudi Mahmoud , Schneider Marion
Published: March 2014

Aflatoxins (AFs) are highly hazardous fungal biometabolites usually present in feeds and foods. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most toxic and a known carcinogen. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), highly expressed by myeloid dendritic cells (DC), are key innate immune-surveillance molecules. Toll-like receptors not only sense pathogen-associated molecular patterns but also contribute to infections and cancer. To assess AFB1–TLR interactions on human myeloid DC, pure CD11c+ DC were generated from monocytes isolated from healthy individuals and then exposed to relevant level of AFB1 for 2 hours. Both quantitative polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometric assays were used to quantify, respectively, expression of TLR2 and TLR4 at the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels in these DC. Levels of interleukin (IL) 1β, IL-6, and IL-10 were also analyzed in AFB1- and mock-treated DC. Compared to nontreated CD11c+ DC, expression levels of both TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA and proteins were significantly upregulated in AFB1-treated cells. Further, although IL-10 levels in AFB1-treated DC were similar to those in the mock-treated DC, the AFB1-exposed DC secreted higher amounts of IL-1β and IL-6. Dendritic cells are sensitive to environmentally relevant level of AFB1, and TLR2 and TLR4 are involved in sensing AFB1. Considering the broad roles of TLR2, TLR4, and DC in immunity and infections, our novel findings open a new door to understanding the molecular mechanisms and functional consequences of AFB1 in inducing immunodysregulation, immunotoxicity, and thus (non)infectious diseases in humans.
Prevalence of peripheral vascular disease and its association with carotid intima-media thickness and arterial stiffness in type 2 diabetes: The Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study (CURES 111)
Authors: Pradeepa Rajendra , Chella Sundarapandi , Surendar Jayagopi , Indulekha Karunakaran , Anjana Ranjit Mohan , Mohan Viswanathan
Published: March 2014

We investigated the prevalence of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and its association with preclinical atherosclerotic markers [intima-media thickness (IMT)] and arterial stiffness among 1755 urban south Indian type 2 diabetic subjects recruited from the Chennai Urban Rural Epidemiology Study (CURES). Doppler studies were performed, and PVD was defined as ankle–brachial index (ABI) of ≤0.9. IMT of the common carotid artery was determined using high-resolution B-mode ultrasonography, and augmentation index (AGI) was measured using the Sphygmocor apparatus. The overall prevalence of PVD was 8.3% (age-standardized 6.5%). The prevalence of PVD was higher among known diabetic subjects ( n = 1401) compared to newly detected diabetic subjects ( n = 354) (8.6% vs 6.8%, p = 0.250). The mean IMT and AGI in subjects with PVD were significantly higher compared to subjects without PVD (IMT: 0.99 ± 0.26 mm vs 0.83 ± 0.19 mm; AGI: 28.1 ± 9.6% vs 25.7 ± 9.8%, respectively). IMT was independently associated with PVD even after adjusting for age [odds ratio (OR) = 2.9 (1.2−6.7), p = 0.016 for second tertile and OR = 3.9 (1.7−9.3), p = 0.002 for third tertile compared to first tertile]. AGI was also associated with PVD in the unadjusted model [OR = 1.8 (1.1−3.1), p = 0.027 for second tertile compared to first tertile]. However, when adjusted for age, the significance was lost. In conclusion, among urban south Indian type 2 diabetic subjects, the prevalence of PVD is 8.3% and IMT is more strongly associated with PVD than AGI.
Management of prolapse in older women
Authors: Thiagamoorthy Ganesh , Cardozo Linda , Srikrishna Sushma , Toozs-Hobson Philip , Robinson Dudley
Published: March 2014

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common problem affecting 37% of women over the age of 80. Review by a specialist with the aid of a validated quality of life questionnaire will help assess bother, as well as the frequency and severity of urinary, bowel and sexual symptoms. Pelvic examination should be carried out to assess the extent of any prolapse and the compartments affected. The main aim of the treatment is to improve the woman’s quality of life. Treatment options may be conservative with lifestyle modifications and pelvic floor muscle therapy, use of a pessary or surgery. Treatment has previously been incorrectly limited in the elderly with the misconception that surgery should be avoided. Her current state of health and expectations are most important. Regardless of age, each patient should be assessed individually with a holistic multi-compartment approach and the risk benefit ratios of every treatment considered.
Thoracolumbar Spine Fractures in the Geriatric Fracture Center
Authors: Weerink L. B. M. , Folbert E. C. , Kraai M. , Smit R. S. , Hegeman J. H. , van der Velde D.
Published: March 2014

Introduction:

Thoracolumbar spine fractures are common osteoporotic fractures among elderly patients. Several studies suggest that these fractures can be treated successfully with a nonoperative management. The aim of this study is to evaluate the conservative treatment of elderly patients with a vertebral fracture.

Methods:

This study is a retrospective cohort study, which included all patients with an age of 65 years and older, who were diagnosed with a vertebral fracture and where therefore admitted to the Geriatric Fracture Center over a period of 2 years. Primary outcome was the level of functioning 6 weeks and 3 months after admission.

Results:

We included 106 patients with 143 vertebral fractures, of which 61 patients were evaluated after 3 months. In our population, 53% of the patients had a fracture involving both middle and anterior columns. The majority of the patients functioned sufficiently 6 weeks and 3 months after admission. Analysis showed that age <80 years is an independent predictor of a sufficient level of functioning after 6 weeks.

Discussion:

The nonoperative treatment of elderly patients with a vertebral fracture leads to a sufficient level of functioning 6 weeks and 3 months after admission. In our population, only age <80 years is an independent predictor for a sufficient level of functioning 6 weeks after admission. The level of functioning at 6 weeks predicts the level of functioning 3 months after admission. On comparison, the level of functioning after early ambulation is equal to the level of functioning after immobilization. Where immobilization may lead to complications, early ambulation was not associated with new complications or neurological damage. Based on these advantages, the treatment of elderly patients with a fracture involving both middle and anterior columns may be altered from immobilization to mobilization in the future.
Do Elderly Patients Fare Worse Following Operative Treatment of Distal Femur Fractures Using Modern Techniques?
Authors: Shulman Brandon S. , Patsalos-Fox Bianka , Lopez Nicole , Konda Sanjit R. , Tejwani Nirmal C. , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: March 2014

Background:

The purpose of this study was to compare the functional outcomes and quality of life of older and younger patients with similarly treated distal femur fractures.

Methods:

We conducted an assessment of 57 patients who sustained distal femur fractures (Orthopaedic Trauma Association Type 33B, C) and underwent surgical treatment at our academic medical center. Patients were divided into 2 groups for analysis: an elderly cohort of patients aged 65 or older and a comparison cohort of patients younger than age of 65. A retrospective review of demographics, preoperative ambulatory status, radiographic data, and physical examination data was collected from the medical records. Follow-up functional data were collected via telephone at a mean of 2.5 years (range 6 months-8 years) using a Short Musculoskeletal Functional Assessment (SMFA). All patients underwent standard operative treatment of either nail or plate fixation.

Results:

There was no statistical difference in gender, fracture type, surgical technique, surgeon, or institution where the surgery was performed. The percentage of patients with healed fractures at 6-months follow-up was not significantly different between the cohorts. The elderly cohort had slightly worse knee range of motion at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively but there was not a statistically significant difference between the groups. The SMFA Daily Activity, Functional, and Bother indices were significantly worse in the older cohort ( P < .01, P = .01, P = .02, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in the SMFA Emotional or Mobility indices.

Conclusion:

Despite lower quality of life and functional scores, this study suggests that relatively good clinical outcomes can be achieved with surgical fixation of distal femoral fractures in the elderly patients. Age should not be used as a determinate in deciding against operative treatment of distal femur fractures in the elderly patients.
Right ventricular reverse remodelling after balloon pulmonary angioplasty
Authors: Fukui Shigefumi , Ogo Takeshi , Morita Yoshiaki , Tsuji Akihiro , Tateishi Emi , Ozaki Kumi , Sanda Yoshihiro , Fukuda Tetsuya , Yasuda Satoshi , Ogawa Hisao , Nakanishi Norifumi
Published: March 2014

Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) has been reported to improve haemodynamics and functional capacity, with an acceptable risk, in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) who are not candidates for pulmonary endarterectomy. However, right ventricular (RV) function, an important predictor in CTEPH, remains to be elucidated. We aimed to examine the impact of BPA on RV remodelling and dysfunction relative to haemodynamic improvements in patients with inoperable CTEPH.

20 consecutive patients with inoperable CTEPH who underwent BPA with cardiovascular magnetic resonance before and after BPA were retrospectively studied.

BPA led to significant amelioration of the mean pulmonary arterial pressure, cardiac index and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), without death or major complications. Furthermore, BPA significantly ameliorated right-sided heart failure symptoms and signs, and exercise capacity. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance revealed a marked improvement in RV end-diastolic and end-systolic volume index, with concomitant improvements in RV ejection fraction, mass and interventricular septal bowing after BPA. Changes in RV volumes strongly correlated with changes in cardiac index and PVR.

BPA induced RV reverse remodelling and improved systolic dysfunction safely by ameliorating haemodynamics in patients with inoperable CTEPH. Evaluating RV function with cardiovascular magnetic resonance may be effective for noninvasively monitoring BPA efficacy.
Upfront triple combination therapy in pulmonary arterial hypertension: a pilot study
Authors: Sitbon Olivier , Jaïs Xavier , Savale Laurent , Cottin Vincent , Bergot Emmanuel , Macari Elise Artaud , Bouvaist Hélène , Dauphin Claire , Picard François , Bulifon Sophie , Montani David , Humbert Marc , Simonneau Gérald
Published: March 2014

Patients with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class (FC) III/IV have a poor prognosis, despite survival benefits being demonstrated with intravenous epoprostenol. In this pilot study, the efficacy and safety of a triple combination therapy regimen in patients with severe PAH was investigated.

Data from newly diagnosed NYHA FC III/IV PAH patients (n=19) initiated on upfront triple combination therapy (intravenous epoprostenol, bosentan and sildenafil) were collected retrospectively from a prospective registry.

Significant improvements in 6-min walk distance and haemodynamics were observed after 4 months’ triple combination therapy in 18 patients (p<0.01); 17 patients had improved to NYHA FC I or II. One patient was not included in the month 4 assessment (due to an emergency lung transplant in month 3). At the final evaluation (mean±sd32±19 months), all 18 patients had sustained clinical and haemodynamic improvement. Overall survival estimates for the triple combination cohort were 100% at 1, 2 and 3 years. Expected survival calculated from the French equation was 75% (95% CI 68–82%), 60% (95% CI 50–70%) and 49% (95% CI 38–60%) at 1, 2 and 3 years, respectively.

This pilot study provides preliminary evidence of the long-term benefits of upfront triple combination therapy in patients with severe PAH.
Validation of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide cut-off values for risk stratification of pulmonary embolism
Authors: Lankeit Mareike , Jiménez David , Kostrubiec Maciej , Dellas Claudia , Kuhnert Katherina , Hasenfuß Gerd , Pruszczyk Piotr , Konstantinides Stavros
Published: March 2014

The optimal N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) cut-off value for risk stratification of pulmonary embolism remains controversial.

In this study we validated and compared different proposed NT-proBNP cut-off values in 688 normotensive patients with pulmonary embolism.

During the first 30 days, 28 (4.1%) patients reached the primary outcome (pulmonary embolism-related death or complications) and 29 (4.2%) patients died. Receiver operating characteristic analysis yielded an area under the curve of 0.70 (0.60–0.80) for NT-proBNP. A cut-off value of 600 pg·mL−1was associated with the best prognostic performance (sensitivity 86% and specificity 50%) and the highest odds ratio (6.04 (95% CI 2.07–17.59), p=0.001) compared to the cut-off values of 1000, 500 or 300 pg·mL−1. Using multivariable logistic regression analysis, NT-proBNP ≥600 pg·mL−1had a prognostic impact on top of that of the simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index and right ventricular dysfunction on echocardiography (OR 4.27 (95% CI 1.22–15.01); p=0.024, c-index 0.741). The use of a stepwise approach based on the simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index, NT-proBNP ≥600 pg·mL−1and echocardiography helped optimise risk assessment.

Our findings confirm the prognostic value of NT-proBNP and suggest that a cut-off value of 600 pg·mL−1is most appropriate for risk stratification of normotensive patients with pulmonary embolism. NT-proBNP should be used in combination with a clinical score and an imaging procedure for detecting right ventricular dysfunction.
Human rhinovirus infection during naturally occurring COPD exacerbations
Authors: George Sîobhán N. , Garcha Davinder S. , Mackay Alexander J. , Patel Anant R.C. , Singh Richa , Sapsford Raymond J. , Donaldson Gavin C. , Wedzicha Jadwiga A.
Published: March 2014

Human rhinovirus (HRV) infection is an important trigger of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but its role in determining exacerbation frequency phenotype or the time-course of HRV infection in naturally occurring exacerbations is unknown.

Sputum samples from 77 patients were analysed by real-time quantitative PCR for both HRV (388 samples), andStreptococcus pneumoniae,Haemophilus influenzaeandMoraxella catarrhalis(89 samples). Patients recorded worsening of respiratory symptoms on daily diary cards, from which exacerbations were identified.

HRV prevalence and load at exacerbation presentation were significantly higher than in the stable state (prevalence 53.3%versus17.2%, respectively; p<0.001) but 0% by day 35 post-exacerbation. HRV load was higher in patients with cold symptoms (p=0.046) or sore throats (p=0.006) than those without. 73% of bacterium-negative but HRV-positive exacerbations were bacterium-positive by day 14. Patients with HRV detected at exacerbation had a higher exacerbation frequency (interquartile range) of 3.01 (2.02–5.30) per year compared with patients without HRV (2.51 (2.00–3.51)) (p=0.038).

HRV prevalence and load increased at COPD exacerbation, and resolved during recovery. Frequent exacerbators were more likely to experience HRV infection. Secondary bacterial infection is common after HRV infection, and provides a possible mechanism for exacerbation recurrence and a potential target for novel therapies.
Role of PAX8 in the regulation of MET and RON receptor tyrosine kinases in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Kanteti Rajani , El-Hashani Essam , Dhanasingh Immanuel , Tretiakova Maria , Husain Aliya N , Sharma Sherven , Sharma Jay , Vokes Everett E , Salgia Ravi
Published: March 2014

Background

Non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) are highly heterogeneous at the molecular level and comprise 75% of all lung tumors. We have previously shown that the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) MET frequently suffers gain-of-function mutations that significantly promote lung tumorigenesis. Subsequent studies from our lab also revealed that PAX5 transcription factor is preferentially expressed in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and promotes MET transcription. PAX8, however, is also expressed in NSCLC cell lines. We therefore investigated the role of PAX8 in NSCLC.

Methods

Using IHC analysis, PAX8 protein expression was determined in archival NSCLC tumor tissues (n = 254). In order to study the effects of PAX8 knockdown on NSCLC cellular functions such as apoptosis and motility, siRNA against PAX8 was used. Confocal fluorescence microscopy was used to monitor the localization of MET, RON and PAX8. The combinatorial effect of PAX8 knockdown and MET inhibition using SU11274 was investigated in NSCLC cell viability assay.

Results

Relative levels of PAX8 protein were elevated (≥ + 2 on a scale of 0–3) in adenocarcinoma (58/94), large cell carcinoma (50/85), squamous cell carcinoma (28/47), and metastatic NSCLC (17/28; lymph node). Utilizing early progenitors isolated from NSCLC cell lines and fresh tumor tissues, we observed robust overexpression of PAX8, MET, and RON. PAX8 knockdown A549 cells revealed abrogated PAX8 expression with a concomitant loss in MET and the related RON kinase expression. A dramatic colocalization between the active form of MET (also RON) and PAX8 upon challenging A549 cells with HGF was visualized. A similar colocalization of MET and EGL5 (PAX8 ortholog) proteins was found in embryos of C. elegans. Most importantly, knockdown of PAX8 in A549 cells resulted in enhanced apoptosis (~6 fold) and decreased cell motility (~45%), thereby making PAX8 a potential therapeutic target. However, the combinatorial approach of PAX8 knockdown and treatment with MET inhibitor, SU11274, had marginal additive effect on loss of NSCLC cell viability.

Conclusion

PAX8 provides signals for growth and motility of NSCLC cells and is necessary for MET and RON expression. Further investigations are necessary to investigate the therapeutic potential of PA8 in NSCLC.
Comparison of alternative mixture model methods to analyze bacterial CGH experiments with multi-genome arrays
Authors: Cardoso Liliana Sofia , Suissas Cláudia Elvas , Ramirez Mário , Antunes Marília , Pinto Francisco Rodrigues
Published: March 2014

Background

Microarray-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) is used for rapid comparison of genomes of different bacterial strains. The purpose is to evaluate the distribution of genes from sequenced bacterial strains (control) among unsequenced strains (test). We previously compared the use of single strain versus multiple strain control with arrays covering multiple genomes. The conclusion was that a multiple strain control promoted a better separation of signals between present and absent genes.

Findings

We now extend our previous study by applying the Expectation-Maximization (EM) algorithm to fit a mixture model to the signal distribution in order to classify each gene as present or absent and by comparing different methods for analyzing aCGH data, using combinations of different control strain choices, two different statistical mixture models, with or without normalization, with or without logarithm transformation and with test-over-control or inverse signal ratio calculation. We also assessed the impact of replication on classification accuracy. Higher values of accuracy have been achieved using the ratio of control-over-test intensities, without logarithmic transformation and with a strain mix control. Normalization and the type of mixture model fitted by the EM algorithm did not have a significant impact on classification accuracy. Similarly, using the average of replicate arrays to perform the classification does not significantly improve the results.

Conclusions

Our work provides a guiding benchmark comparison of alternative methods to analyze aCGH results that can impact on the analysis of currently ongoing comparative genomic projects or in the re-analysis of published studies.
Culture bag systems for clinical applications of adult human neural crest-derived stem cells
Authors: Greiner Johannes FW , Grunwald Lena-Marie , Müller Janine , Sudhoff Holger , Widera Darius , Kaltschmidt Christian , Kaltschmidt Barbara
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Facing the challenging treatment of neurodegenerative diseases as well as complex craniofacial injuries such as those common after cancer therapy, the field of regenerative medicine increasingly relies on stem cell transplantation strategies. Here, neural crest-derived stem cells (NCSCs) offer many promising applications, although scale up of clinical-grade processes prior to potential transplantations is currently limiting. In this study, we aimed to establish a clinical-grade, cost-reducing cultivation system for NCSCs isolated from the adult human nose using cGMP-grade Afc-FEP bags.

Methods

We cultivated human neural crest-derived stem cells from inferior turbinate (ITSCs) in a cell culture bag system using Afc-FEP bags in human blood plasma-supplemented medium. Investigations of viability, proliferation and expression profile of bag-cultured ITSCs were followed by DNA-content and telomerase activity determination. Cultivated ITSCs were introduced to directed in vitro differentiation assays to assess their potential for mesodermal and ectodermal differentiation. Mesodermal differentiation was determined using an enzyme activity assay (alkaline phosphatase, ALP), respective stainings (Alizarin Red S, Von Kossa and Oil Red O), and RT-PCR, while immunocytochemistry and synaptic vesicle recycling were applied to assay neuroectodermal differentiation of ITSCs.

Results

When cultivated within Afc-FEP bags, ITSCs grew three-dimensionally in a human blood plasma-derived matrix, thereby showing unchanged morphology, proliferation capability, viability and expression profile in comparison to three dimensionally-cultured ITSCs growing in standard cell culture plastics. Genetic stability of bag-cultured ITSCs was further accompanied by unchanged telomerase activity. Importantly, ITSCs retained their potential to differentiate into mesodermal cell types, particularly including ALP-active, Alizarin Red S-, and Von Kossa-positive osteogenic cell types, as well as adipocytes positive in Oil Red O assays. Bag culture further did not affect the potential of ITSCs to undergo differentiation into neuroectodermal cell types coexpressing β-III-tubulin and MAP2 and exhibiting the capability for synaptic vesicle recycling.

Conclusions

Here, we report for the first time the successful cultivation of human NCSCs within cGMP-grade Afc-FEP bags using a human blood plasma-supplemented medium. Our findings particularly demonstrate the unchanged differentiation capability and genetic stability of the cultivated NCSCs, suggesting the great potential of this culture system for future medical applications in the field of regenerative medicine.
A Beta Distribution Model for Characterizing Earthquake Damage State Distribution
Authors: Lallemant David , Kiremidjian Anne
Published: March 2014

This study investigates methods for modeling the distribution of post-earthquake damage among categorical damage states. Specifically, it is demonstrated that the beta distribution is a good model for characterizing the complete probability distribution of damage states conditioned on ground-motion intensity. Based on extensive post-earthquake damage surveys following the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, the paper proposes the method-of-moments and maximum likelihood estimate-based formulations to fit a beta distribution model to grouped categorical damage data. The beta distribution model is further compared with one based on the binomial distribution, often used to estimate damage state distribution. The study demonstrates that the beta distribution results in little bias and variance in predictions of damage and loss. This model can be the basis for developing damage probability matrices, fragility curves, post-disaster damage estimations, risk assessments, and more.
Elaboration of Multi-Hazard Zoning and Qualitative Risk Maps of Pakistan
Authors: Siddique Muhammad Shahid , Schwarz Jochen
Published: March 2014

Pakistan is situated in one of the highest seismic zones of the world, with the 1935 Quetta earthquake and the 2005 Kashmir earthquake as the most devastating earthquakes in the country. Pakistan has also recently suffered from severe flood events, in 2010 to 2012. Recent experiences in the above-mentioned events emphasize the need for a multi-hazard approach to assess the vulnerability of typical building types in Pakistan. The multi-hazard map is classified into four hazard-dominated areas: earthquake-, flood-, combined-, and no hazard–dominated areas in Pakistan. The distribution of the typical building types of Pakistan is globalized in terms of few, many, and most ranges to make a regional map of Pakistan. This map shows seven regions all over Pakistan, indicating the groups with certain predominant building types in each region. A multi-hazard risk map of Pakistan is the final outcome of the study.
Update of the Chiou and Youngs NGA Model for the Average Horizontal Component of Peak Ground Motion and Response Spectra
Authors: Chiou Brian S.-J. , Youngs Robert R.
Published: March 2014

We present an update to our 2008 NGA model for predicting horizontal ground motion amplitudes caused by shallow crustal earthquakes occurring in active tectonic environments. The update is based on analysis of the greatly expanded NGA-West2 ground motion database and numerical simulations. The updated model contains minor adjustments to our 2008 functional form related to style of faulting effects, hanging wall effects, scaling with the depth to top of rupture, scaling with sediment thickness, and the inclusion of additional terms for the effects of fault dip and rupture directivity. In addition, we incorporate regional differences in far-source distance attenuation and site effects between California and other active tectonic regions. Compared to our 2008 NGA model, the predicted medians by the updated model are similar for M > 7 and are lower for M < 5. The aleatory variability is larger than that obtained in our 2008 model.
Oncologist Factors That Influence Referrals to Subspecialty Palliative Care Clinics
Authors: Schenker Yael , Crowley-Matoka Megan , Dohan Daniel , Rabow Michael W. , Smith Cardinale B. , White Douglas B. , Chu Edward , Tiver Greer A. , Einhorn Sara , Arnold Robert M.
Published: March 2014

Improving provision of palliative care in oncology may require efforts beyond increasing service availability. Developing ways for oncologists and palliative care physicians to collaborate and integrate their respective skills may help.
Actionable Data Analytics in Oncology: Are We There Yet?
Authors: Barkley Ronald , Greenapple Rhonda , Whang John
Published: March 2014

The authors suggest action items for oncology providers to consider in pursuit of a value-based agenda, such as developing an enabling information technology and analytic platform.
Blood Thrombogenicity Is Independently Associated With Serum TSH Levels in Post–Non-ST Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Viswanathan Girish , Balasubramaniam Karthik , Hardy Richard , Marshall Sally , Zaman Azfar , Razvi Salman
Published: March 2014

Context:

Higher serum TSH levels, both within the reference range and in those with subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), have been associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular (CV) events in a number of cross-sectional and longitudinal studies.

Objective:

Our objective was to evaluate blood thrombogenicity in patients post–non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) in relation to their thyroid function.

Design, Patients, and Outcome Measure:

At 1 week after troponin-positive NSTE-ACS, 70 patients who had been treated with optimal antiplatelet and secondary prevention therapy were studied. Patients with known thyroid disease or on medications affecting thyroid function were excluded. Blood thrombogenicity was assessed using the ex vivo Badimon perfusion chamber.

Results:

Serum TSH was associated with higher thrombus burden (β = .30; P = .01) independent of other well-established CV risk factors. Patients with SCH (n = 12; 17%) had a higher thrombus burden than euthyroid individuals as evidenced by the area of the thrombus: mean (SD) 23 608 (10 498) vs 16 661 (10 902) μm2/mm (P = .02). However, this association was not evident when the analysis was limited to patients with serum TSH within the reference range. In addition, neither serum free T4 nor free T3 had any significant association with thrombus area.

Conclusion:

Serum TSH levels, particularly in the SCH range, are associated with higher thrombus burden despite optimal recommended secondary prevention therapy after NSTE-ACS. This may explain the higher CV risk seen in SCH patients. Future trials to assess the effect of individualized antithrombotic as well as thyroid hormone replacement therapy to reduce atherothrombotic risk in this population are needed.
Skeletal Muscle Fuel Selection Occurs at the Mitochondrial Level
Authors: Kuzmiak-Glancy Sarah , Willis Wayne T.
Published: March 2014

Mammals exponentially increase the rate of carbohydrate oxidation as exercise intensity rises, while birds combust lipid almost exclusively while flying at high percentages of aerobic capacity. The fuel oxidized by contracting muscle depends on many factors: whole body fuel storage masses, mobilization, blood transport, cellular uptake, and substrate selection at the level of the mitochondrion. We examined the fuel preferences of mitochondria isolated from mammalian and avian locomotory muscles using two approaches. First, the influence of substrates on the kinetics of respiration (KMADP and Vmax) was evaluated. For all substrates and combinations, KMADP was generally two-fold higher in avian mitochondria. Second, fuel competition between pyruvate, glutamate, and/or palmitoyl-l-carnitine at three levels of ATP free energy was determined using the principle of mass balance and the measured rates of O2 consumption and metabolite accumulation/utilization. Avian mitochondria strongly spared pyruvate from oxidation when another substrate was available and fatty acid was the dominant substrate, regardless of energy state. Mammalian mitochondria exhibited some preference for fatty acid over pyruvate at lower flux (higher energy state), but exhibited much greater tendency to select pyruvate and glutamate when available. Studies in sonicated mitochondria revealed two-fold higher electron transport chain electron conductance in avian mitochondria. We conclude that substantial fuel selection occurs at the level of the mitochondrial matrix and that avian flight muscle mitochondria are particularly biased toward the selection of fatty acid, possibly by facilitating high β-oxidation flux by maintaining a more oxidized matrix.
Nonadiabatic Electronic Dynamics in Isolated Molecules and in Solution Studied by Ultrafast Time–Energy Mapping of Photoelectron Distributions
Authors: Suzuki Toshinori
Published: March 2014

Nonadiabatic electronic dynamics contribute to the diversity of chemical reactions. We investigate nonadiabatic dynamics in isolated molecules and aqueous solutions by time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy. For isolated molecules in the gas phase, we combine two-dimensional imaging detection of electrons and a sub-20 fs deep UV and vacuum UV light source to measure time-evolution of the photoelectron kinetic energy and angular distributions. Time–energy mapping of photoelectron angular anisotropy reveals the S2 → S1 internal conversion dynamics through conical intersection in pyrazine, benzene, and toluene. The time–energy mapping is also employed to extract the photoelectron angular distribution in the molecular frame for nitric oxide. For electronic dynamics in aqueous solution, we employ time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy using a liquid beam and an electrostatic or a time-of-flight electron energy analyzer. Successful observation of ultrafast electron-transfer reactions in aqueous solutions and measurement of electron binding energies of solvated species suggest promising future developments of this very young field.
Postoperative visual loss following cerebral arteriovenous malformation surgery: a case report
Authors: Goettel Nicolai , Ghosh Jayati , Tymianski Michael , Manninen Pirjo H
Published: March 2014

We report the case of a 46 year-old woman presenting with unilateral postoperative visual loss after right frontal craniotomy for resection of an arteriovenous malformation in the supine position.

The intraoperative course was uneventful with maintenance of hemodynamic stability. Blood loss was 300 ml; postoperative hemoglobin was 12.4 g/dl. In the recovery room, the patient reported loss of vision in her right eye. Ophthalmologic examination revealed decreased visual acuity, color vision, and visual field. Assessment of the retina was normal, but the patient showed a relative afferent pupillary defect consistent with the clinical diagnosis of ischemic optic neuropathy. Postoperative computer tomogram showed normal perfusion of ophthalmic artery and vein, no hemorrhage or signs of cerebral ischemia or edema. The patient recovered most of her vision 3 months after surgery.

Anesthesiologists should be aware that this condition may follow uncomplicated intracranial surgeries in the supine position, and should obtain prompt ophthalmologic consultation when a patient develops postoperative visual loss.
The Long-Run Role of the Media: Evidence from Initial Public Offerings
Authors: Liu Laura Xiaolei , Sherman Ann E. , Zhang Yong
Published: March 2014

The unique characteristics of the U.S. initial public offering (IPO) process, particularly the strict quiet period regulations, allow us to explore the effects of media coverage when the coverage does not contain genuine news (i.e., hard information that was previously unknown). We show that a simple, objective measure of pre-IPO media coverage is positively related to the stock's long-term value, liquidity, analyst coverage, and institutional investor ownership. Our results are robust to additional controls for size, to using abnormal or excess media, and to an instrumental variable approach. We also find that pre-IPO media coverage is negatively related to future expected returns, measured by the implied cost of capital. In all, we find a long-term role for media coverage, consistent with Merton's attention or investor recognition hypothesis.

This paper was accepted by Brad Barber, finance.
Climate impact on 100-year foliage chronologies of Scots pine and Ponderosa pine in the northeast lowlands of Brandenburg, Germany
Authors: Insinna Patrick , Jalkanen Risto , Götz Bernhard
Published: March 2014

Due to differences in the high-frequency signal and mean sensitivity of needle parameters in Scots pine and Ponderosa pine revealed in previous investigations, variance caused by climate factors at a dry site in the northeast lowlands of Brandenburg was investigated. Although water is the general limiting factor for both tree species, there are evident differences in the climate-driven impact on individual needle parameters. Autumn precipitation of the previous year was equally important for Scots pine and Ponderosa pine, but summer precipitation was more significant for the needle parameters of Scots pine. In contrast to precipitation, temperature seems to have a minor impact on needle parameters. Although January temperatures are significant predictors for both species, intercorrelations between needle parameters and summer temperatures were found only for Ponderosa pine. Striking correlation was also found between sun activity and needle production in Ponderosa pine, but not Scots pine, indicating possible adaptation to solar radiation.
The effect of annual ring orientation and drying method on deformations, casehardening and colour of silver birch (Betula pendula) boards
Authors: Luostarinen Katri
Published: March 2014

Deformations of timber, caused mainly by anisotropic shrinkage, can be partially directed by controlling annual ring orientation through different sawing patterns. Ring orientation also affects the movement of water from within the board to its surface, with rapidity of drying having implications for the wood colour. Here sawn silver birch (Betula pendula Roth) timber was classed into two groups according to ring orientation. Two drying methods were used. The final moisture content was lower and the colour lighter in dried boards with radial than with tangential flats, but deformations were larger in radial than in tangential boards. Both drying and ring orientation affected the final moisture content and moisture gradient of the boards. Very small differences in board sizes or shape had an effect on both colour and deformations. The results support the need for accurate sawing and for classing silver birch timber sawn into parquet billets according to ring orientation in order to optimise the drying quality.
Effects of early thinning regime and tree status on the radial growth and wood density of Scots pine
Authors: Peltola Heli , Kilpeläinen Antti , Sauvala Kari , Räisänen Tommi , Ikonen Veli-Pekka
Published: March 2014

In this work, we studied the effects of early thinning on the radial growth and wood density over a 12-year post-thinning period in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) trees grown on a site with a rather poor nutrient supply. Ring width, early and late wood width and early wood percentage, mean intra-ring wood density and early- and late wood density were analyzed in 98 sample trees using X-ray microdensitometry. For the analyses, ten different thinning plots with post-thinning stand density varying from 575 to 3400 stems ha were grouped into four classes representing heavy thinning, moderate thinning, light thinning and no thinning. We found that the radial growth in the thinned treatments increased significantly compared to that of the unthinned treatment. Despite this, the mean intra-ring wood density did not decrease significantly as a result of heavy thinning, although it was 2% less, on average (with a range of 1â4% in large and small trees), compared to that of the unthinned treatment. In the lightly thinned treatment, the mean intra-ring wood density even increased by 5%, on average (with a range 4â7% in small and large trees), but in the moderately thinned treatment, the level of change was not as clear. The thinning response of trees representing different status in a stand differed significantly and was also affected by the post-thinning stand density. Altogether, observed simultaneous increases in early and late wood widths and late wood density, but a decrease in early wood density indicate that as a result of heavy thinning, especially, un-uniformity of wood density will increase. On the other hand, although heavy thinning increased tree growth by 9â20%, on average, compared to moderate thinning, which corresponds quite well with business-as-usual management, mean wood density decreased only 0â4% depending on tree status in a stand (from large to small trees). Thus, the decrease observed in wood density was less than expected as a result of heavy thinning at an early stage of stand development, which has recently been recommended as one possible management option in Scots pine in Finland.â1
Economic impacts on the forest sector of increasing forest biodiversity conservation in Finland
Authors: Hänninen Riitta , Kallio A.
Published: March 2014

In the next coming years, political decisions will be made upon future actions to safeguard forest biodiversity in Southern Finland. We address the economic consequences on the Finnish forest sector of conserving additional 0.5% to 5% of the old growth forest land in Southern Finland. The impacts on supply, demand and prices of wood and forest industry production are analysed employing a partial equilibrium model of the Finnish forest sector. An increase in conservation raises wood prices and thus the production costs of the forest industry. This makes sawnwood production fall, but does not affect paper and paperboard production. The forest ownersâ aggregated wood sales income is unaffected or slightly increased, because an increase in stumpage prices offsets the decrease in the harvests. If conservation increases wood imports, negative effects on forest industry become smaller whereas aggregated forest ownersâ income may decline depending on the magnitude of import substitution.
Possibilities to aggregate raster cells through spatial optimization in forest planning
Authors: Heinonen Tero , Kurttila Mikko , Pukkala Timo
Published: March 2014

This study divided the forest into raster cells and used these cells as calculation units in optimisation instead of predefined stand compartments. It was hypothesized that raster cells would result in feasible treatment units and more efficient utilization of the production potential of the forest when spatial optimisation is used to compile the plan. The optimization problems of this study included both ecological and economic objectives. The raster cells were hexagons (721 m) and their data were derived from traditionally defined forest compartments. Three forest plans were developed by using the rasterized forest, and they were compared to the corresponding forest plans developed by using compartments. Cutting areas were aggregated in all plans, by maximizing the proportion of the boundaries between two adjacent calculation units that were both cut during the same management period, and by minimizing the proportion of cut-uncut boundaries. In the first plan, only cutting areas were aggregated. In the second and third plan, also old forests were aggregated by using two different spatial objectives. The first maximized the proportion of the boundary between adjacent calculation units that were both considered as old forest. The second objective maximized the mean of the neighbourhood minima of the calculation unitsâ old forest indices. The neighbourhood included the calculation unit itself and all the adjacent calculation units. The growing stock volume targets at the end of the 60-year planning period and the cutting volume targets of the three 20-year management periods were set to the same levels in all plans. The results showed that the raster approach was able to aggregate old forest patches and cutting areas similar in shape and size as the conventional approach. When the aggregation of old forest was a management objective, the total old forest area was larger in the raster forest but the mean size of the old forest patches was larger with predefined compartments. The trade-off curve between harvested volume and old forest area was further from the origin for the raster forest.2
Modeling the Dispersion of a Tracer Gas in a Model Room: Comparison Between the Large Eddy Simulation Method and a Euler Approach
Authors: Chafi F. Z. , Hallé S.
Published: March 2014

In this paper, indoor tracer-gas concentration and temperature profiles obtained by a large-eddy simulation (LES) and an inviscid model based on Euler equations are presented. The numerical results from these two approaches are compared with experimental results, available in the literature, for both mixing jet and displacement ventilation strategies. The numerical results reveal that the ventilation strategy changes the dispersion of the tracer gas in the model room to a significant degree. Comparison between LES, Euler, and experimental data shows that the LES model can simulate the tracer-gas concentration and temperature distribution relatively well. Comparison between LES models, Euler, and experimental data show that the LES models simulate the concentration of the tracer gas and the temperature distribution reasonably well. The results of this model coincide well with the experimental results. The same finding was observed by the Euler model. Performance of this approach for evaluation of indoor air quality has been verified for two ventilation strategies. Differences from 3 to 4.7 % were observed between the Euler model and experimental results. The efficiency of ventilation obtained from the Euler model is almost identical to the experimental values with a calculation time less than that obtained by the LES model. The Euler model has its limits only when it comes to high velocities (near air outlets). Generally, a room's air flows are low so in this case, the Euler model can predict the concentration of pollutants effectively.
Crystal structure of ethyl 6-methyl-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylate, C13H13NO3
Authors: Garudachari B. , Islor Arun M. , Satyanarayan M. N. , Gerber Thomas , Hosten Eric , Betz Richard
Published: March 2014

C13H13NO3, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 22.886(3) Å, b = 12.763(2) Å, c = 8.175(1) Å, β = 107.756(4)°, V = 2274.3 Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0599, wRref(F2) = 0.1487, T = 200 K.
Crystal structure of dichlorido[tris(pyrazolyl)borate]triphenylphosphinerhenium(III), C27H25BCl2N6PRe
Authors: Zhang Ran , Nie Jing , Zhang Li-Fang
Published: March 2014

C27H25BCl2N6PRe, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 10.404(2) Å, b = 20.006(4) Å, c = 13.391(3) Å, β = 92.74(3)°, V = 2784.2 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0205, wRref(F2) = 0.0449, T = 123 K.
Crystal structure of (benzoylacetonato-κ2O,O')dichloridodimethoxidotantalum(V), C12H15Cl2O4Ta
Authors: Herbst Leandra , Visser Hendrik G. , Roodt Andreas
Published: March 2014

C12H15Cl2O4Ta, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 15.318(5) Å, b = 12.194(4) Å, c = 7.982(5) Å, β = 93.990(4)°, V = 1487.3 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0296, wRref(F2) = 0.0639, T = 100 K.
Crystal structure of bis(triphenylphospine-κP)(methanol-κO)(tetrafluoroborate-κF)silver(I), [Ag(PPh3)2(CH3OH)BF4], C37H34AgBF4OP2
Authors: Gao Sen , Qiu Qi-Ming , Liu Min , Jiang Yu-Han , Jin Qiong-Hua
Published: March 2014

C37H34AgBF4OP2, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 13.748(1) Å, b = 12.757(1) Å, c = 19.716(2) Å, β = 92.657(1)°, V = 3454.1 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0361, wRref(F2) = 0.1018, T = 298 K.
The pseudosymmetric crystal structure of bis((dimethylphosphoryl)-methanaminium oxonium tribromide, C6H25Br3N2O3P2
Authors: Reiss Guido J.
Published: March 2014

C6H25Br3N2O3P2, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 10.4183(3) Å, b = 11.5741(3) Å, c = 14.0587(4) Å, α = 87.417(2)°, β = 89.011(3)°, γ = 89.044(2)°, V = 1693.04(9) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0418, wRref(F2) = 0.0752, T = 109 K.
Crystal structure of (S)-N-benzyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-3-carboxamide, C17H20N2O2
Authors: Cele Zamani E. D. , Bhatt Pralav , Govender Thavendran , Kruger Hendrik G. , Maguire Glenn E. M.
Published: March 2014

C17H20N2O2, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 7.1759(1) Å, b = 13.2258(2) Å, c = 15.6553(3) Å, V = 1485.8 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0283, wRref(F2) = 0.0797, T = 173 K.
Field-Assembled Polymer Composites
Authors: Martin James E.
Published: March 2014

In this paper we show that a wide variety of composite structures can be obtained from structuring with multiaxial fields. The properties of these composites are highly responsive to field structuring and so significant increases in a variety of properties can be obtained. These composites have application as high-strain actuators, strain and temperature sensors, chemical sensors, and as thermal interface materials. We discuss these issues and provide a general summary of the research we have done in this area.