bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival of Alzheimer's Disease Patients in Korea
Authors: Go Seok Min , Lee Kang Soo , Seo Sang Won , Chin Juhee , Kang Sue J. , Moon So Young , Na Duk L. , Cheong Hae-Kwan
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: The natural history of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has rarely been studied in the Korean population. Our study on survival analyses in Korean AD patients potentially provides a basis for cross-cultural comparisons. Methods: We studied 724 consecutive patients from a memory disorder clinic in a tertiary hospital in Seoul, who were diagnosed as having AD between April 1995 and December 2005. Deaths were identified by the Statistics Korea database. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis, and a Cox proportional hazard model was used to assess factors related to patient survival. Results: The overall median survival from the onset of first symptoms and from the time of diagnosis was 12.6 years (95% confidence interval 11.7-13.4) and 9.3 years (95% confidence interval 8.7-9.9), respectively. The age of onset, male gender, history of diabetes mellitus, lower Mini-Mental State Examination score, and higher Clinical Dementia Rating score were negatively associated with survival. There was a reversal of risk of AD between early-onset and later-onset AD, 9.1 years after onset. Conclusions: The results of our study show a different pattern of survival compared to those studies carried out with western AD populations. Mortality risk of early-onset AD varied depending on the duration of follow-up.
A Novel Kernel for Correcting Size Bias in the Logistic Kernel Machine Test with an Application to Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Freytag Saskia , Bickeböller Heike , Amos Christopher I. , Kneib Thomas , Schlather Martin
Published: March 2013

Objectives: The logistic kernel machine test (LKMT) is a testing procedure tailored towards high-dimensional genetic data. Its use in pathway analyses of case-control genome-wide association studies results from its computational efficiency and flexibility in incorporating additional information via the kernel. The kernel can be any positive definite function; unfortunately, its form strongly influences the test's power and bias. Most authors have recommended the use of a simple linear kernel. We demonstrate via a simulation that the probability of rejecting the null hypothesis of no association just by chance increases with the number of SNPs or genes in the pathway when applying a simple linear kernel. Methods: We propose a novel kernel that includes an appropriate standardization in order to protect against any inflation of false positive results. Moreover, our novel kernel contains information on gene membership of SNPs in the pathway. Results: When applying the novel kernel to data from the North American Rheumatoid Arthritis Consortium, we find that even this basic genomic structure can improve the ability of the LKMT to identify meaningful associations. We also demonstrate that the standardization effectively eliminates problems of size bias. Conclusion: We recommend the use of our standardized kernel and urge caution when using non-adjusted kernels in the LKMT to conduct pathway analyses.
Synchronous Sporadic Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors in the Stomach and Jejunum: Report of a Case
Authors: Nakayama Yoshifumi , Kadowaki Kouji , Higure Aiichirou , Hisaoka Masanori , Yamaguchi Koji
Published: March 2013

This report describes a patient with synchronous sporadic gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) in the stomach and jejunum. A 71-year-old Japanese male presented with a 2-year history of occasional melena and general fatigue. Computed tomography of the abdomen demonstrated an enhanced extramural gastric tumor, 4 cm in diameter. Endoscopic examination revealed a jejunal submucosal tumor. He was referred to the surgical outpatient clinic for surgical treatment of an extramural gastric tumor and a jejunal submucosal tumor. Laparotomy allowed the identification of a nut-sized extramural tumor at the stomach and a thumb's head-sized tumor on the jejunum. Partial resections of the stomach and jejunum were performed. Histopathological and immunohistochemical examination revealed that these tumors were GISTs. Although no molecular analysis was performed, the immunohistochemical staining patterns of these two tumors were different from each other. Therefore, the final diagnosis was synchronous sporadic GISTs in the stomach and jejunum. This patient has survived without recurrence for approximately 12 years since complete resection.
Comparative Effectiveness of Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysm Therapies
Authors: McDonald Jennifer S. , McDonald Robert J. , Fan Jiaquan , Kallmes David F. , Lanzino Giuseppe , Cloft Harry J.
Published: March 2013

Background and Purpose—

Endovascular therapy has increasingly become the most common treatment for unruptured cerebral aneurysms in the United States. We evaluated a national, multi-hospital database to examine recent utilization trends and compare periprocedural outcomes between clipping and coiling treatments of unruptured aneurysms.

Methods—

The Premier Perspective database was used to identify patients hospitalized between 2006 to 2011 for unruptured cerebral aneurysm who underwent clipping or coiling therapy. A logistic propensity score was generated for each patient using relevant patient, procedure, and hospital variables, representing the probability of receiving clipping. Covariate balance was assessed using conditional logistic regression. Following propensity score adjustment using 1:1 matching methods, the risk of in-hospital mortality and morbidity was compared between clipping and coiling cohorts.

Results—

A total of 4899 unruptured aneurysm patients (1388 clipping, 3551 coiling) treated at 120 hospitals were identified. Following propensity score adjustment, clipping patients had a similar likelihood of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR], 1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49–4.44;
P
=0.47) but a significantly higher likelihood of unfavorable outcomes, including discharge to long-term care (OR, 4.78; 95% CI, 3.51–6.58;
P
<0.0001), ischemic complications (OR, 3.42; 95% CI, 2.39–4.99;
P
<0.0001), hemorrhagic complications (OR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.33–3.57;
P
<0.0001), postoperative neurological complications (OR, 3.39; 95% CI, 2.25–5.22;
P
<0.0001), and ventriculostomy (OR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.01–4.61;
P
=0.0320) compared with coiling patients.

Conclusions—

Among patients treated for unruptured intracranial aneurysms in a large sample of hospitals in the United States, clipping was associated with similar mortality risk but significantly higher periprocedural morbidity risk compared with coiling.
Development of a Point-based Prediction Model for the Incidence of Total Stroke
Authors: Yatsuya Hiroshi , Iso Hiroyasu , Yamagishi Kazumasa , Kokubo Yoshihiro , Saito Isao , Suzuki Kazuo , Sawada Norie , Inoue Manami , Tsugane Shoichiro
Published: March 2013

Background and Purpose—

An individualized risk score for the development of stroke may be a useful tool to motivate patients to modify their risk behaviors. We developed and validated a point-based prediction model (risk score) for stroke incidence using a Japanese cohort of general men and women.

Methods—

The Japan Public Health Center-based prospective study cohort II (age range, 40–69 years at baseline in 1993–1994; n=15 672) was used to derive the point-based model according to Cox regression results. The model was externally validated using the Japan Public Health Center study cohort I and also by bootstrap methods within cohort II. The model discrimination was evaluated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, model calibration, by the Grønnesby–Borgan χ
2
statistic. Vascular age was also calculated.

Results—

During 14 years of follow-up, 790 incident stroke cases occurred. Variables selected for the model were age, sex, current smoking, body mass index, blood pressure, antihypertensive medication use, and diabetes mellitus. Interactions of sex with current smoking and of antihypertensive medication use with systolic blood pressure were statistically significant. The point-based model discriminated reasonably well (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.73). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the point-based model applied externally to cohort I was reasonably good: 0.69. A 50-year-old man with diabetes mellitus and hypertension has an estimated vascular age of 69 years. High normal blood pressure and grade 1 hypertension accounted for one third of the stroke incidence.

Conclusions—

We developed score to predict 10-year stroke risk using variables that are easily available in the community setting.
Beobachtungen zur Turfan-Chandoviciti
Authors: Chen Ruixuan
Published: March 2013

In 1958, a number of birchbark fragments in the Berlin collection of Turfan manuscripts were edited and published by Dieter Schlingloff under the title of Chandoviciti. He ascribed them to three independent texts on Sanskrit metrics, which contained numerous exemplary verses of a wide variety of Sanskrit meters. Therefore some scholars felt justified in assuming that the texts dated by Schlingloff in the second half of the fourth century ce were originally a collection of exemplary verses. Nevertheless the textual history of those texts remains obscure. This recent research is based on a scrutiny of the original source, while bringing about a correction of several readings. Furthermore, some palaeographical remarks might be able to suggest a somewhat later dating of the manuscripts in question than that proposed by Schlingloff. With regard to the title of this treatise, it follows from a historical perspective that Chandoviciti per se as a title would hardly be probable, if not impossible. In the last part of this article, light is shed on the internal diversity and inconsistency among those exemplary verses, which render it plausible that the so-called Turfan-Chandoviciti could have been a „mixed“ booklet compiled from at least four different sources which was then continuously abridged over the course of time from the very beginning of its spread along the Silk Road up to its final entry into Xinjiang.
Children's Perception of Aged Persons and Grandparents
Authors: Marcoen Alfons
Published: March 2013

Because results with regard to children's perception of the elderly contradict each other, it is necessary to differentiate between several groups of subjects, different groups of aged stimulus persons and various dimensions of the image or concept formed.

In this study an investigation is made of the characteristics and quality of the image children have of aged persons in general and of their grandparents. A sample of 114 second-, fourth-and sixth-graders, boys and girls, drew successively an aged man and woman and their grandfather and grandmother. Those figures are examined and compared with regard to the richness of the drawings (the number of characteristics drawn) and number of deficit and old age life style characteristics. An analysis of variance is made in order to examine the influence and interaction of two between-subject variables - sex (S) and age of child (A) -and two within-subject variables - sex (Ssp) and kinship of stimulus person (K). Relating to the richness of the drawings, S, A, and K show a principal effect, in relating to the proportion of deficit characteristics there is a principal influence of S, A, K and Ssp. Ssp and K show a principal effect relating to the old age life style characteristics. Some specific characteristics are more often used for one or two figures, or more often used by boys or girls, second-, fourth-or sixth-graders.
Research in Action Settings: A Sketch of Emerging Perspectives
Authors: Kessel Frank S.
Published: March 2013

Referring specifically to early education programs this paper outlines the principal features of two broad paradigms of action research. The first, emphasizing summative evaluation through quantitative group comparisons of intelligence and achievement scores, characterized earlier action research efforts. The second, stressing formative evaluation, process-oriented observational methods, and qualitative information, has emerged more recently. The perspectives comprising this paradigm are discussed in the light of parallel developments in psychology, together with implications for international researchers, funding agencies, and policy-makers.
Personal and Situational Facilitation of the Observational Learning of Conservation
Authors: Vitaro Frank , Robert Michele
Published: March 2013

The purpose of the present experiment was to appraise the respective contribution of initial competence and of imitation of modeled response in the observational learning of conservation. Nonconservers were selected during a pretest: half succeeded and half failed an Anticipation Task. Anticipators and nonanticipators were subsequently exposed to one of five pretraining conditions which did not involve conservation: generalized imitation of modeled responses; generalized counterimitation; neutralization; contact with the pretraining setting; and no pretraining. Conservation was then demonstrated: one-third of the children were asked to repeat modeled responses during pauses in the demonstration; one-third rested during pauses; demonstration proceeded without pauses for the final third of the subjects. Posttesting was conducted immediately after and four weeks later. As predicted, performance of anticipators surpassed that of nonanticipators who showed no progress at all. Imitation pretraining provided optimal benefits. However, counterimitation pretraining did not prove detrimental as expected. Rehearsal manipulation, moreover, had no influence on acquisition. These results were discussed with reference to a hypothesized sequence of imitation and comprehension processes, the evolution of which is modified by the nonconserver's cognitive preparation and a situational encouragement of imitation.
Money and Children's Household Jobs: Parents' Views of their Interconnections
Authors: Warton Pamela M. , Goodnow Jacqueline J.
Published: March 2013

Parents' ideas and practices regarding monetary payments and children's household jobs have been considered as an index of more general values related to what children should learn and what parents should do. The present study explores (a) the acceptability to parents of a variety of practices, and (b) some general ideas about money in exchange for jobs that may provide a background for discussing actual practices. At issue are both the content of parents' ideas and the degree to which there is coherence or structure within the ideas held and between ideas and practices. The sample consisted of 118 Australian parents (mothers and fathers) each with a child aged either 9-11 or 14-16 years. The results indicate the value of exploring ideas about money as a route into parents' ideas about children and their development, together with the value of exploring both the extent to which ideas are shared by parents and the nature of departures from a coherent set of ideas.
Using Mixture Models in Temperament Research
Authors: Stern Hal S. , Arcus Doreen , Kagan Jerome , Rubin Donald B. , Snidman Nancy
Published: March 2013

Temperamental characteristics can be conceptualised as continuous dimensions or qualitative categories. The continuous versus categorical question concerns the underlying temperamental characteristics and not the measured variables, which can be recorded in either continuous or categorical forms. This paper argues for a categorical conceptualisation of temperamental characteristics and applies a finite mixture model appropriate to this view to two sets of longitudinal observations of infants and young children. This statistical approach provides a good description of the observed predictive relation between behavioural profiles of children at 4 months and the degree of behavioural signs of fear at 14 months. An advantage of the mixture model approach to this data, relative to more standard approaches to developmental data, is that because it takes into account an a-priori theory, it can be used to address improvements and refinements to theories and experimental designs in a straightforward manner.
Use of Pulsed Dye Laser in the Treatment of Sulcus Vocalis
Authors: Hwang Chi Sang , Lee Hyun Jin , Ha Jong Gyun , Cho Chang Il , Kim Na Hyun , Hong Hyun Jun , Choi Hong‐Shik
Published: March 2013

Objective

The pulsed dye laser (PDL) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloids in dermatology. On the basis of histopathologic similarities between sulcus vocalis and scar tissue and numerous reports on the treatment of laryngeal lesions, especially scar tissue, with PDL, we evaluated the efficacy of treating sulcus vocalis with PDL. We named this surgical procedure PDL glottoplasty.

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection.

Setting

A university‐based, tertiary care medical center.

Subjects and Methods

This study was conducted on 25 patients diagnosed with sulcus vocalis by videostroboscopy at the Gangnam Severance Hospital Otorhinolaryngology Department between August 2006 and February 2012. Energy delivery was fixed at 0.75 Joules (J) per pulse, and each vocal fold was administered 60 to 110 pulses (average 72.5 pulses) during each procedure. Aerodynamic, stroboscopic, and acoustic voice analyses were performed pre‐ and postoperatively.

Results

Although assessment was necessarily subjective, our study indicated that vocal folds showed decreased stiffness and improved mucosal wave properties after treatment, resulting in improved vibration and dysphonia. In the objective assessments, most patients who underwent PDL glottoplasty showed improvement in several postoperative voice analysis indices. The differences between preoperative and some postoperative voice parameter indices were statistically significant.

Conclusion

We found PDL glottoplasty to be beneficial in the treatment of sulcus vocalis. Objective measurements of voice quality and normalization of vocal fold vibration improved after PDL treatment in most cases. Our results warrant further studies with larger numbers of participants and longer follow‐up periods.
Invited Commentary on “Issues in Differential Response”
Authors: Vaughan-Eden Viola , Vandervort Frank E.
Published: March 2013

Ronald Hughes and his colleagues have written a groundbreaking article on child welfare’s use of differential response. Their research addresses the matter from a “lessons learned” and “ways to improve” approach. Our comments focused on three key issues: (1) the importance of evidence-based practice; (2) the recognition that no one practice modality can be a cure-all for child protection; and (3) the necessity of better quality training for child welfare professionals. We believe the value of this article goes beyond theoretical and ideological discussion, but should be used to promote and support research-informed knowledge in policy and practice.
Glucocorticosteroids in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and approaches to minimizing systemic activity
Authors: Prantera Cosimo , Marconi Stefano
Published: March 2013

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are a group of inflammatory conditions characterized by chronic, uncontrolled inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Reported prevalence is high in the United States and northern Europe, while the incidence varies greatly across the rest of Europe. Glucocorticosteroids are the standard treatment for IBD, but due to adverse events their use can be limited. However, new formulations of glucocorticosteroids have been developed to reduce systemic activation. The aim of this review was to assess and summarize the efficacy and safety of new formulations of glucocorticosteroids. A MEDLINE search identified publications focused on new formulations of nonsystemic steroid-based drugs for IBD and benefits and limitations of each of the new glucocorticosteroid formulations were identified. Budesonide has good efficacy and is an established treatment for Crohn’s disease; it has been shown to be beneficial for the induction of remission in these patients, although it is not recommended for the maintenance of induced remission. Glucocorticosteroids are not recommended for the maintenance of remission in patients with IBD. However, a recent study suggested that beclomethasone dipropionate may be effective for prolonged treatment in patients in the postacute phase of Crohn’s disease who were treated with a short course of systemic steroids. The efficacy of fluticasone propionate and prednisolone metasulphobenzoate in IBD is not well established given the small number of patients enrolled in the few published clinical trials. While the tolerability of these glucocorticosteroids is favourable, more research comparing these new agents with traditional systemic glucocorticosteroids is warranted.
What Meaning do Responsible Consumers Give to Their Consumption? An Approach by Narratives
Authors: Özçağlar-Toulouse Nil
Published: March 2013

Current ethical, social and environmental concerns are reviving the topic of meaning in consumption practices. In order to improve our understanding of responsible consumers, this article studies the meaning of responsible consumption using the method of narratives and a structural analysis. The results show a set of common features among narrators: escaping ill-being, searching for the authentic self, avoiding isolation and controlling one's own life. Three meanings of responsible consumption have also been observed: liberation act, political act and moral conformity act.
Higher bone marrow LGALS3 expression is an independent unfavorable prognostic factor for overall survival in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Cheng Chieh-Lung , Hou Hsin-An , Lee Ming-Cheng , Liu Chieh-Yu , Jhuang Jie-Yang , Lai Yan-Jun , Lin Chung-Wu , Chen Huan-Yuan , Liu Fu-Tong , Chou Wen-Chien , Chen Chien-Yuan , Tang Jih-Luh , Yao Ming , Huang Shang-Yi , Ko Bor-Sheng , Wu Shang-Ju , Tsay Woei , Tien Hwei-Fang
Published: March 2013

Key Points

Bone marrow LGALS3 expression is associated with distinct clinical and biological features in patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Higher bone marrow LGALS3 expression is an independent poor prognostic factor for overall survival and may serve as a potential therapeutic target.
PacC and pH–dependent transcriptome of the mycotrophic fungus Trichoderma virens
Authors: Trushina Naomi , Levin Michal , Mukherjee Prasun K , Horwitz Benjamin A
Published: March 2013

Background

In fungi, environmental pH is an important signal for development, and successful host colonization depends on homeostasis. Surprisingly, little is known regarding the role of pH in fungal-fungal interactions. Species of Trichoderma grow as soil saprobes but many are primarily mycotrophic, using other fungi as hosts. Therefore, Trichoderma spp. are studied for their potential in biocontrol of plant diseases. Particularly in alkaline soil, pH is a critical limiting factor for these biofungicides, whose optimal growth pH is 4–6. Gaining an understanding of pH adaptability is an important step in broadening the activity spectrum of these economically important fungi.

Results

We studied the pH-responsive transcription factor PacC by gene knockout and by introduction of a constitutively active allele (pacC

c
). ΔpacC mutants exhibited reduced growth at alkaline pH, while pacC

c
strains grew poorly at acidic pH. In plate confrontation assays ΔpacC mutants showed decreased ability to compete with the plant pathogens Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotium rolfsii. The pacC

c
strain exhibited an overgrowth of R. solani that was comparable to the wild type, but was unable to overgrow S. rolfsii. To identify genes whose expression is dependent on pH and pacC, we designed oligonucleotide microarrays from the transcript models of the T. virens genome, and compared the transcriptomes of wild type and mutant cultures exposed to high or low pH. Transcript levels from several functional classes were dependent on pacC, on pH, or on both. Furthermore, the expression of a set of pacC-dependent genes was increased in the constitutively-active pacC

c
strain, and was pH-independent in some, but not all cases.

Conclusions

PacC is important for biocontrol-related antagonism of other fungi by T. virens. As much as 5% of the transcriptome is pH-dependent, and of these genes, some 25% depend on pacC. Secondary metabolite biosynthesis and ion transport are among the relevant gene classes. We suggest that ΔpacC mutants may have lost their full biocontrol potential due to their inability to adapt to alkaline pH, to perceive ambient pH, or both. The results raise the novel possibility of genetically manipulating Trichoderma in order to improve adaptability and biocontrol at alkaline pH.
Chondroblastoma associated with aneurysmal cyst of the navicular bone: a case report
Authors: Fang Zhenhua , Chen Ming
Published: March 2013

Chondroblastoma is a rare tumor. It is usually benign; however, it can have an aggressive course before or after operative treatment, even resulting in pulmonary metastases. The foot is a rare location for chondroblastoma, and to our knowledge, chondroblastoma occurring in the navicular bone has not been reported previously in the English literature. We describe a case of navicular chondroblastoma case associated with an aneurysmal bone cyst. Treatment consisted of aggressive curettage, phenolization, and bone allograft. The patient was able to resume normal activities after treatment, and there was no recurrence of the chondroblastoma during a follow-up of 3 years.
Cathepsin B: a potential prognostic marker for inflammatory breast cancer
Authors: Nouh Mohamed A , Mohamed Mona M , El-Shinawi Mohamed , Shaalan Mohamed A , Cavallo-Medved Dora , Khaled Hussein M , Sloane Bonnie F
Published: March 2013

Background

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most aggressive form of breast cancer. In non-IBC, the cysteine protease cathepsin B (CTSB) is known to be involved in cancer progression and invasion; however, very little is known about its role in IBC.

Methods

In this study, we enrolled 23 IBC and 27 non-IBC patients. All patient tissues used for analysis were from untreated patients. Using immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting, we assessed the levels of expression of CTSB in IBC versus non-IBC patient tissues. Previously, we found that CTSB is localized to caveolar membrane microdomains in cancer cell lines including IBC, and therefore, we also examined the expression of caveolin-1 (cav-1), a structural protein of caveolae in IBC versus non-IBC tissues. In addition, we tested the correlation between the expression of CTSB and cav-1 and the number of positive metastatic lymph nodes in both patient groups.

Results

Our results revealed that CTSB and cav-1 were overexpressed in IBC as compared to non-IBC tissues. Moreover, there was a significant positive correlation between the expression of CTSB and the number of positive metastatic lymph nodes in IBC.

Conclusions

CTSB may initiate proteolytic pathways crucial for IBC invasion. Thus, our data demonstrate that CTSB may be a potential prognostic marker for lymph node metastasis in IBC.
Transmigration of polymorphnuclear neutrophils and monocytes through the human blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier after bacterial infection in vitro
Authors: Steinmann Ulrike , Borkowski Julia , Wolburg Hartwig , Schröppel Birgit , Findeisen Peter , Weiss Christel , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Schwerk Christian , Schroten Horst , Tenenbaum Tobias
Published: March 2013

Background

Bacterial invasion through the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) during bacterial meningitis causes secretion of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines followed by the recruitment of leukocytes into the CNS. In this study, we analyzed the cellular and molecular mechanisms of polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) and monocyte transepithelial transmigration (TM) across the BCSFB after bacterial infection.

Methods

Using an inverted transwell filter system of human choroid plexus papilloma cells (HIBCPP), we studied leukocyte TM rates, the migration route by immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy and focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy, the secretion of cytokines/chemokines by cytokine bead array and posttranslational modification of the signal regulatory protein (SIRP) α via western blot.

Results

PMNs showed a significantly increased TM across HIBCPP after infection with wild-typeNeisseria meningitidis(MC58). In contrast, a significantly decreased monocyte transmigration rate after bacterial infection of HIBCPP could be observed. Interestingly, in co-culture experiments with PMNs and monocytes, TM of monocytes was significantly enhanced. Analysis of paracellular permeability and transepithelial electrical resistance confirmed an intact barrier function during leukocyte TM. With the help of the different imaging techniques we could provide evidence for para- as well as for transcellular migrating leukocytes. Further analysis of secreted cytokines/chemokines showed a distinct pattern after stimulation and transmigration of PMNs and monocytes. Moreover, the transmembrane glycoprotein SIRPα was deglycosylated in monocytes, but not in PMNs, after bacterial infection.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that PMNs and monoctyes differentially migrate in a human BCSFB model after bacterial infection. Cytokines and chemokines as well as transmembrane proteins such as SIRPα may be involved in this process.
Mesenchymal stem cell derived hematopoietic cells are permissive to HIV-1 infection
Authors: Nazari-Shafti Timo Z , Freisinger Eva , Roy Upal , Bulot Christine T , Senst Christiane , Dupin Charles L , Chaffin Abigail E , Srivastava Sudesh K , Mondal Debasis , Alt Eckhard U , Izadpanah Reza
Published: March 2013

Background

Tissue resident mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent, self-renewing cells known for their differentiation potential into cells of mesenchymal lineage. The ability of single cell clones isolated from adipose tissue resident MSCs (ASCs) to differentiate into cells of hematopoietic lineage has been previously demonstrated. In the present study, we investigated if the hematopoietic differentiated (HD) cells derived from ASCs could productively be infected with HIV-1.

Results

HD cells were generated by differentiating clonally expanded cultures of adherent subsets of ASCs (CD90+, CD105+, CD45-, and CD34-). Transcriptome analysis revealed that HD cells acquire a number of elements that increase their susceptibility for HIV-1 infection, including HIV-1 receptor/co-receptor and other key cellular cofactors. HIV-1 infected HD cells (HD-HIV) showed elevated p24 protein andgagandtatgene expression, implying a high and productive infection. HD-HIV cells showed decreasedCD4, but significant increase in the expression ofCCR5,CXCR4,Nef-associated factorHCK, andVpu-associated factorBTRC. HIV-1 restricting factors like APOBEC3F and TRIM5 also showed up regulation. HIV-1 infection increased apoptosis and cell cycle regulatory genes in HD cells. Although undifferentiated ASCs failed to show productive infection, HIV-1 exposure increased the expression of several hematopoietic lineage associated genes such asc-Kit,MMD2, andIL-10.

Conclusions

Considering the presence of profuse amounts of ASCs in different tissues, these findings suggest the possible role that could be played by HD cells derived from ASCs in HIV-1 infection. The undifferentiated ASCs were non-permissive to HIV-1 infection; however, HIV-1 exposure increased the expression of some hematopoietic lineage related genes. The findings relate the importance of ASCs in HIV-1 research and facilitate the understanding of the disease process and management strategies.
EMT is the dominant program in human colon cancer
Authors: Loboda Andre , Nebozhyn Michael V , Watters James W , Buser Carolyne A , Shaw Peter Martin , Huang Pearl S , Van't Veer Laura , Tollenaar Rob AEM , Jackson David B , Agrawal Deepak , Dai Hongyue , Yeatman Timothy J
Published: March 2013

Background

Colon cancer has been classically described by clinicopathologic features that permit the prediction of outcome only after surgical resection and staging.

Methods

We performed an unsupervised analysis of microarray data from 326 colon cancers to identify the first principal component (PC1) of the most variable set of genes. PC1 deciphered two primary, intrinsic molecular subtypes of colon cancer that predicted disease progression and recurrence.

Results

Here we report that the most dominant pattern of intrinsic gene expression in colon cancer (PC1) was tightly correlated (Pearson R = 0.92, P < 10-135) with the EMT signature-- both in gene identity and directionality. In a global micro-RNA screen, we further identified the most anti-correlated microRNA with PC1 as MiR200, known to regulate EMT.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that the biology underpinning the native, molecular classification of human colon cancer--previously thought to be highly heterogeneous-- was clarified through the lens of comprehensive transcriptome analysis.
Clustering revisited: A spectral analysis of microseismic events
Authors: Fagan Deborah , van Wijk Kasper , Rutledge James
Published: March 2013

Identifying individual subsurface faults in a larger fault system is important to characterize and understand the relationship between microseismicity and subsurface processes. This information can potentially help drive reservoir management and mitigate the risks of natural or induced seismicity. We have evaluated a method of statistically clustering power spectra from microseismic events associated with an enhanced oil recovery operation in southeast Utah. Specifically, we were able to provide a clear distinction within a set of events originally designated in the time domain as a single cluster and to identify evidence of en echelon faulting. Subtle time-domain differences between events were accentuated in the frequency domain. Power spectra based on the Fourier transform of the time-domain autocorrelation function were used, as this formulation results in statistically independent intensities and is supported by a full body of statistical theory upon which decision frameworks can be developed.
Driving and dementia: a clinician's guide
Authors: Wilson Sarah , Pinner Gill
Published: March 2013

With an ageing population and more drivers on the road, the number of drivers with dementia is due to grow exponentially over the next 50 years. Although decisions regarding possession of a driving licence in the UK are made by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), psychiatrists have a duty to advise patients who are unfit to drive to cease driving and to inform the DVLA of patients who pose a risk to the public by continuing to drive when advised not to. This article offers a review of the literature on dementia and driving and summarises the evidence and advice for navigating this minefield. The use of psychological test batteries in clinical practice is discussed, along with the most useful questions to ask in memory clinics. Legal guidance for various countries is considered, as is the important (but often overlooked) issue of helping older people prepare for retirement from driving.
Affective disorders and risk of developing dementia: systematic review
Authors: da Silva Joaquim , Gonçalves-Pereira Manuel , Xavier Miguel , Mukaetova-Ladinska Elizabeta B.
Published: March 2013

Background

Affective disorders are associated with cognitive disturbances but their role as risk factors for dementia is still not fully investigated.

Aims

To evaluate the risk of developing dementia in individuals with a history of affective disorder.

Method

We conducted a systematic review of case-control and cohort studies addressing the risk of developing dementia in people with affective disorders. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review that has included studies evaluating this risk specifically in people with bipolar disorder.

Results

Fifty-one studies were included. Most of the studies found an increased risk for developing dementia in individuals with depression. Greater frequency and severity of depressive episodes seem to increase this risk. The evidence is contradictory regarding whether there is a difference in risk in people with early- or late-onset depression. The few available risk estimates for dementia in people with bipolar disorder suggest an even higher risk than for those with depression.

Conclusions

Affective disorders appear to be associated with an increased risk of developing dementia, and one that is dependent on clinical and demographic variables. Depression may be both a prodrome and a risk factor for dementia. Future research should aim to elucidate the mechanisms that mediate these links.
Narrative review of the impact of clinical psychiatry attachments on attitudes to psychiatry
Authors: Qureshi Henna , Carney Stuart , Iversen Amy
Published: March 2013

Aims and method

Psychiatry in the UK has long-standing issues in recruiting UK-trained doctors. A key potential influence on interest in psychiatry during medical school is the clinical attachment. This narrative review investigates how the clinical experience of psychiatry affects medical students' attitudes towards the specialty.

Results

We identified 107 studies, of which 46 were included. They showed that clinical attachments in psychiatry did result in more positive attitudes towards the specialty and increased career interest. There was inconsistent evidence on whether interest was maintained, with some studies indicating that the increase is transient. Factors which may influence attitudes include attachment setting, duration and student demographics.

Clinical implications

The results suggest a need to actively maintain interest in psychiatry throughout medical school. Research with long-term follow-up and evaluation of schemes to maintain students' interest is needed.
Kinase Inhibitors: Adverse Effects Related to the Endocrine System
Authors: Lodish Maya B.
Published: March 2013

Context:

The use of kinase inhibitors (KIs) in the treatment of cancer has become increasingly common, and practitioners must be familiar with endocrine-related side effects associated with these agents. This review provides an update to the clinician regarding the management of potential endocrinological effects of KIs.

Evidence Acquisition:

PubMed was employed to identify relevant manuscripts. A review of the literature was conducted, and data were summarized and incorporated.

Evidence Synthesis:

KIs, including small molecule KIs and monoclonal antibodies directed against kinases, have emerged over the past decade as an important class of anticancer agents. KIs specifically interfere with signaling pathways that are dysregulated in certain types of cancers and also target common mechanisms of growth, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis. Currently, at least 20 KIs are approved as cancer therapeutics. However, KIs may affect a broad spectrum of targets and may have additional, unidentified mechanisms of action at the cellular level due to overlap between signaling pathways in the tumor cell and endocrine system. Recent reports in the literature have identified side effects associated with KIs, including alterations in thyroid function, bone metabolism, linear growth, gonadal function, fetal development, adrenal function, and glucose metabolism.

Conclusions:

Clinicians need to monitor the thyroid functions of patients on KIs. In addition, bone density and vitamin D status should be assessed. Special care should be taken to follow linear growth and development in children taking these agents. Clinicians should counsel patients appropriately on the potential adverse effects of KIs on fetal development.
Cancer Protection Elicited by a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Close to the Adrenomedullin Gene
Authors: Martínez-Herrero Sonia , Martínez Alfredo
Published: March 2013

Context:

The risk of developing cancer is regulated by genetic variants, including polymorphisms. Characterizing such variants may help in developing protocols for personalized medicine.

Objective:

Adrenomedullin is a regulatory peptide involved in cancer promotion and progression. Carriers of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the proximity of the adrenomedullin gene have lower levels of circulating peptide. The aim of the present work was to investigate whether carriers of this SNP (rs4910118) are protected against cancer.

Design:

This was a retrospective study. DNA samples were obtained from the Carlos III DNA National Bank (University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain).

Setting:

Samples represent a variety of donors and patients from Spain.

Patients or Other Participants:

DNA from patients with breast cancer (n = 238), patients with lung cancer (n = 348), patients with cardiac insufficiency (n = 474), and healthy donors of advanced age (n = 500) was used.

Interventions:

All samples were genotyped using double-mismatch PCR, and confirmation was achieved by direct sequencing.

Main Outcome Measures:

The minor allele frequency was calculated in all groups. The Pearson χ2 was used to compare SNP frequencies.

Results:

Of 1560 samples, 14 had the minor allele, with a minor allele frequency in healthy donors of 0.90%. Patients with cancer had a statistically significantly lower frequency than healthy donors (odds ratio = 0.216, 95% confidence interval = 0.048–0.967, P = .028).

Conclusions:

Carriers of the minor allele have a 4.6-fold lower risk of developing cancer than homozygotes for the major allele. Knowledge of the rs4910118 genotype may be useful for stratifying patients in clinical trials and for designing prevention strategies.
Phosphorylation regulates coilin activity and RNA association
Authors: Broome Hanna J. , Carrero Zunamys I. , Douglas Heather E. , Hebert Michael D.
Published: March 2013

The Cajal body (CB) is a domain of concentrated components found within the nucleus of cells in an array of species that is functionally important for the biogenesis of telomerase and small nuclear ribonucleoproteins. The CB is a dynamic structure whose number and size change during the cell cycle and is associated with other nuclear structures and gene loci. Coilin, also known as the marker protein for the CB, is a phosphoprotein widely accepted for its role in maintaining CB integrity. Recent studies have been done to further elucidate functional activities of coilin apart from its structural role in the CB in an attempt to explore the rationale for coilin expression in cells that have few CBs or lack them altogether. Here we show that the RNA association profile of coilin changes in mitosis with respect to that during interphase. We provide evidence of transcriptional and/or processing dysregulation of several CB-related RNA transcripts as a result of ectopic expression of both wild-type and phosphomutant coilin proteins. We also show apparent changes in transcription and/or processing of these transcripts upon coilin knockdown in both transformed and primary cell lines. Additionally, we provide evidence of specific coilin RNase activity regulation, on both U2 and hTR transcripts, by phosphorylation of a single residue, serine 489. Collectively, these results point to additional functions for coilin that are regulated by phosphorylation.
WholeSoldier Performance Appraisal to Support Mentoring and Personnel Decisions
Authors: Dees Robert A. , Nestler Scott T. , Kewley Robert
Published: March 2013

We present a multiattribute model called WholeSoldier Performance that measures the performance of junior enlisted soldiers in the U.S. Army; currently there is no formal performance appraisal system in place. The application is unique to decision analysis in that we utilize a common constructed scale and single-dimensional value function for all attributes to match the natural framework of model users and based on operability concerns. Additionally, we discuss model validation in both the terms of decision analysis and psychometrics in models that are used for repeated or routine assessments and thus generate significant quantities of data. We highlight visualization of data for use to support mentoring and personnel decisions to better train, assign, retain, promote, and separate current personnel. Last, we address common cultural concerns related to performance appraisals in organizations by offering a method to standardize ratings and hold raters accountable for their responsibility to mentor subordinates as well as identify their performance to the larger organization.
Organizational Learning and the Technology of Foolishness: The Case of Virtual Worlds at IBM
Authors: Dodgson Mark , Gann David M. , Phillips Nelson
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we examine how and why organizational learning is affected by virtualization technologies. The literature on organizational learning has identified its many constraints, and the influence of information technologies on overcoming these restraints has also received attention. Little research, however, has addressed how organizational learning is affected by a new type of technology associated with “virtuality”: the characterization of people, objects, and processes by digital representations, providing enhanced opportunities for the interpersonal and organizational interactivity and engagement that stimulates organizational learning. We present an exploratory case study of the engagement with, and use of, virtual worlds at IBM, a leading user of this virtualization technology. Virtual worlds are associated with games; we explore their use in the novel conduct of social interactions in meetings, rehearsals, and brainstorming, and we argue that organizational learning results from forms of play. We explain how such a playful, game-like technology came to be accepted in a serious for-profit science and engineering organization through a process we refer to as convergent recognition. We find organizational learning results from the interrelated processes behind the adoption of the technology and its application. By reference to the distinction between technologies of rationality and foolishness, we theorize how their reconciliation occurs through the mutually reinforcing ways organizations learn to engage with and use new technologies.
The Impact of Dynamic Capabilities on Resource Access and Development
Authors: Stadler Christian , Helfat Constance E. , Verona Gianmario
Published: March 2013

This study analyzes dynamic capabilities that support activities directed toward accessing resources and further developing resources to make them commercially usable. We develop theory and empirically investigate the impact of dynamic capabilities on the amount and success of these activities and whether the impact of dynamic capabilities differs between the two types of activities. Using unique data from the upstream oil industry, we develop an objective measure of dynamic capability that is distinct from the outcomes of utilizing these capabilities. We find that firms with more sophisticated dynamic capabilities undertake greater amounts of activity to access resources and further develop them prior to commercial use; they also have greater success in these activities. Finally, these effects of dynamic capabilities are larger for activities directed toward initially accessing resources than those directed toward further developing them, which is consistent with the potential for firms to rely on knowledge gained through resource access activity when conducting subsequent activity to further develop resources.