bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical analysis of 76 patients pathologically diagnosed with pulmonary cryptococcosis
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Li Nan , Zhang Yuxuan , Li Huiping , Chen Xueyuan , Wang Shanmei , Zhang Xia , Zhang Rongxuan , Xu Jinfu , Shi Jingyun , Yung Rex C.
Published: March 2012

The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical characteristics of pulmonary cryptococcosis patients in China, with analysis of immunocompetent and immunocompromised subjects.

We performed a retrospective review of 76 patients diagnosed with tissue-confirmed pulmonary cryptococcosis at the Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital (Shanghai, China) during a 10-yr period (2001–2010).

Of 76 patients (54 males and 22 females), 41 (53.95%) were immunocompetent and 35 out of the 41 were asymptomatic. Approximately 80% of the patients had histories suspicious of environmental fungal exposure. Radiological (computed tomography) findings showed predominantly peripheral findings (85.53%, 65 out of 76 patients) including nodular masses (55.26%, 42 out of 76), pneumonic infiltrates (23.68%, 18 out of 76) and mixed type (21.05%, 16 out of 76). 43.42% (33 out of 76) were initially misdiagnosed, often as cancer by false-positive18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18FDG-PET) (28 out of 46 cases). 51 patients received antifungal therapy, 25 patients were clinically observed without treatment. As of December 31, 2010, 71 cases showed total recovery and four cases showed improvement (efficacy rate of 98.68%, 75 out of 76). One HIV-positive case died of cryptococcal meningitis.

Incidence of pulmonary cryptococcosis in China may be related to environmental fungal exposures. Most presented as asymptomatic peripheral lung lesions. False-positive18FDG-PET examinations often lead to initial clinical misdiagnosis of cancer. Unlike immunocompromised or clinically symptomatic patients, all immunocompetent patients had a good response, either to fluconazole monotherapy or observation, with a tendency for spontaneous remissions in the asymptomatic immunocompetent subjects.
Nitric oxide in primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Walker Woolf T. , Jackson Claire L. , Lackie Peter M. , Hogg Claire , Lucas Jane S.
Published: March 2012

Nitric oxide is continually synthesised in the respiratory epithelium and is upregulated in response to infection or inflammation. Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is characterised by recurrent sinopulmonary infections due to impaired mucociliary clearance. Despite chronic infections, nasal nitric oxide in such patients is markedly reduced and is used as a screening test for this condition. These low levels were first described >15 yrs ago but the underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully elucidated. We review epithelial nitric oxide synthesis, release and measurement in the upper airways with particular reference to PCD. The key hypotheses that have been proposed to explain the low nitric oxide levels in this condition are explored and the potential benefits of augmenting airway nitric oxide levels are considered. Further work in these patients clarifying both whether the respiratory epithelium is able to biosynthesise normal levels of nitric oxide and the role played by abnormalities in the anatomy of the paranasal sinuses is essential. While nitric oxide augmentation is unlikely to be beneficial in common PCD phenotypes, it has potential in the treatment of secondary dyskinesias and may also improve treatment of bacterial infections, particularly where biofilms are implicated.
Severity assessment of healthcare-associated pneumonia and pneumonia in immunosuppression
Authors: Carrabba Maria , Zarantonello Marina , Bonara Paola , Hu Cinzia , Minonzio Francesca , Cortinovis Ivan , Milani Silvano , Fabio Giovanna
Published: March 2012

The study compares the ability of the PSI (pneumonia severity index), CURB-65 (confusion, urea >7 mol·L−1, respiratory rate ≥30 breaths·min−1, blood pressure <90 mmHg systolic or ≤60 mmHg diastolic, and age ≥65 yrs), CURB and CRB-65 scales and the Severe Community-Acquired Pneumonia (SCAP) score to predict 30-day mortality in healthcare-associated pneumonia (HCAP) patients, and analyses differences in the demographics, aetiology and outcomes of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), HCAP and pneumonia in immunocompromised patients.

629 consecutive patients admitted to a tertiary care university hospital were prospectively categorised as having CAP (n=322) or HCAP (n=307), and the HCAP patients were further sub-divided into those who were immunocompromised (n=219) or immunocompetent (n=88).

The 30-day mortality rate was 9.0% in the CAP group and 24.1% in the HCAP group. In the HCAP group, the PSI and SCAP scores had similar prognostic power (area under the curve (AUC) of 0.68 and 0.67, respectively) and performed better than the CURB-65 score (AUC ≤0.62). Among the immunocompetent HCAP patients, the PSI and CURB-65 scores were more sensitive than the others at every threshold, whereas SCAP was more specific than both of these. In the immunocompromised group, the PSI was highly sensitive but poorly specific at all thresholds.

Our results suggest that prognostic tools should be designed for subsets of HCAP patients.
High-intensity knee extensor training restores skeletal muscle function in COPD patients
Authors: Brønstad Eivind , Rognmo Øivind , Tjonna Arnt Erik , Dedichen Hans Henrich , Kirkeby-Garstad Idar , Håberg Asta K. , Bjørk Ingul Charlotte , Wisløff Ulrik , Steinshamn Sigurd
Published: March 2012

Improving reduced skeletal muscle function is important for optimising exercise tolerance and quality of life in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. By applying high-intensity training to a small muscle group, we hypothesised a normalisation of muscle function.

Seven patients with COPD performed 6 weeks (3 days·week−1) of high-intensity interval aerobic knee extensor exercise training. Five age-matched healthy individuals served as a reference group. Muscle oxygen uptake and mitochondrial respiration of the vastus lateralis muscle were measured before and after the 6-week training programme.

Initial peak work and maximal mitochondrial respiration were reduced in COPD patients and improved significantly after the training programme. Peak power and maximal mitochondrial respiration in vastus lateralis muscle increased to the level of the control subjects and were mainly mediatedviaimproved complex I respiration. Furthermore, when normalised to citrate synthase activity, no difference in maximal respiration was found either after the intervention or compared to controls, suggesting normal functioning mitochondrial complexes.

The present study shows that high-intensity training of a restricted muscle group is highly effective in restoring skeletal muscle function in COPD patients.
The mechanism of deep inspiration-induced bronchoprotection: evidence from a mouse model
Authors: Wong Russell S. , Larcombe Alexander N. , Fernandes Lynette B. , Zosky Graeme R. , Noble Peter B.
Published: March 2012

In healthy individuals, deep inspirations (DIs) taken prior to a bronchial challenge reduce the bronchoconstrictor response, which is termed “bronchoprotection”. The mechanism(s) of DI-induced bronchoprotection is unclear.

The forced oscillation technique was used to assess the effect of prior DI on subsequent bronchoconstriction to methacholine (MCh) in BALB/c mice. We assessed likely mechanisms for the bronchoprotective effects of DI including reduced airway narrowing (from changes in airway resistance) and/or closure (changes in tissue elastance) and enhanced bronchodilation to a subsequent DI (% reversal in airway narrowing).

DI prior to MCh challenge: 1) did not reduce but instead enhanced airway narrowing (p<0.05); 2) increased ventilation heterogeneity (p<0.05); 3) enhanced the subsequent bronchodilatory response to DI (p<0.05); and 4) reduced tissue elastance (p<0.05), suggesting opening of closed airways or alveoli units.

Our findings suggest that DI prior to MCh challenge may elicit a series of changes, some of which are beneficial to respiratory function (enhanced bronchodilation), while others place greater load on the system (enhanced bronchoconstriction and ventilation heterogeneity). It is proposed that the relative magnitudes of these opposing physiological and mechanical effects will determine the net effect on respiratory function in health and disease.
Macrolide effects on the prevention of COPD exacerbations
Authors: Yamaya Mutsuo , Azuma Arata , Takizawa Hajime , Kadota Jun-ichi , Tamaoki Jun , Kudoh Shoji
Published: March 2012

The number of senile patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has recently increased due to an increase in life expectancy, the habit of smoking and the inhalation of toxic particles. COPD exacerbations are caused by airway bacterial and viral infections, as well as the inhalation of oxidative substrates. COPD exacerbations are associated with the worsening of symptoms and quality of life, as well as an increased mortality rate.

Several drugs, including long-acting anti-cholinergic agents, long-acting β2-agonists and inhaled corticosteroids, have been developed to improve symptoms in COPD patients and to prevent COPD exacerbations. Treatment with macrolide antibiotics has been reported to prevent COPD exacerbations and improve patient quality of life and symptoms, especially in those patients who have frequent exacerbations. In addition to their antimicrobial effects, macrolides have a variety of physiological functions, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects, reduced sputum production, the inhibition of biofilm formation and the inhibition of bacterial virulence factor production. These unique activities may relate to the prevention of exacerbations in COPD patients who receive macrolides.

Herein, we review the inhibitory effects that macrolides have on COPD exacerbations and explore the possible mechanisms of these effects.
Clinical highlights from the 2011 ERS Congress in Amsterdam
Authors: Spruit Martijn A. , Chavannes Niels H. , Herth Felix J.F. , Poletti Venerino , Ley Sebastian , Burghuber Otto C. , Clini Enrico , Cottin Vincent
Published: March 2012

This article reports on selected papers pertinent to the most important clinical problems in the field of respiratory medicine. Expert authors from the Clinical Assembly of the European Respiratory Society (ERS) have selected updated reports related to presentations given at the 2011 ERS Annual Congress, which was held in Amsterdam (the Netherlands) and attended by more than 20,000 participants. The hot topics and selected abstracts from the scientific groups of the Clinical Assembly are discussed here in the context of recent literature.
Interobserver variability in the application of the novel IASLC/ATS/ERS classification for pulmonary adenocarcinomas
Authors: Warth Arne , Stenzinger Albrecht , von Brünneck Ann-Christin , Goeppert Benjamin , Cortis Judith , Petersen Iver , Hoffmann Hans , Schnabel Philipp A. , Weichert Wilko
Published: March 2012

Recently, a novel classification for pulmonary adenocarcinomas (ADCs) was published, the cornerstone of which is the quantification of growth patterns. Data on reproducibility in the routine diagnostic setting are lacking.

100 constitutive cases of lung ADC resection specimens from our archives were classified independently by five pulmonary pathologists and two residents according to the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer/American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society classification.

The most frequent predominant pattern in our cohort was solid (37%), followed by acinar (35%), lepidic (20%), papillary (5%) and micropapillary (3%). κ-values for the denomination of the predominant pattern revealed substantial agreement for pulmonary pathologists (κ=0.44–0.72) and fair agreement for residents (κ=0.38–0.47). Interobserver variability was significantly higher in cases with higher slide numbers (p=0.028) and was considerably reduced after training. Intraobserver variability was low (κ=0.79–0.87). Papillary and micropapillary patterns were the most complicated patterns to evaluate, while evaluation of lepidic and solid tumour growth was straightforward.

Our data imply that the novel classification of pulmonary ADC is applicable with acceptable interobserver variability if performed by specifically trained pathologists. Additional efforts are needed to harmonise the application of this novel and clinically important classification scheme of pulmonary ADC.
Airway impedance entropy and exacerbations in severe asthma
Authors: Gonem Sherif , Umar Imraan , Burke Daniel , Desai Dhananjay , Corkill Steven , Owers-Bradley John , Brightling Christopher E. , Siddiqui Salman
Published: March 2012

Variability of peak flow measurements has been related to clinical outcomes in asthma. We hypothesised that the entropy, or information content, of airway impedance over short time scales may predict asthma exacerbation frequency.

66 patients with severe asthma and 30 healthy control subjects underwent impulse oscillometry at baseline and following bronchodilator administration. On each occasion, airway impedance parameters were measured at 0.2-s intervals for 150 s, yielding a time series that was then subjected to sample entropy (SampEn) analysis.

Airway impedance and SampEn of impedance were increased in asthmatic patients compared with healthy controls. In a logistic regression model, SampEn of the resistance at 5 Hz minus the resistance at 20 Hz, a marker of the fluctuation of the heterogeneity of airway constriction over time, was the variable most strongly associated with the frequent exacerbation phenotype (OR 3.23 for every 0.1 increase in SampEn).

Increased airway impedance and SampEn of impedance are associated with the frequent exacerbation phenotype. Prospective studies are required to assess their predictive value.
Generic phylogeny, historical biogeography and character evolution of the cosmopolitan aquatic plant family Hydrocharitaceae
Authors: Chen Ling-Yun , Chen Jin-Ming , Gituru Robert Wahiti , Wang Qing-Feng
Published: March 2012

Background

Hydrocharitaceae is a fully aquatic monocot family, consists of 18 genera with approximately 120 species. The family includes both fresh and marine aquatics and exhibits great diversity in form and habit including annual and perennial life histories; submersed, partially submersed and floating leaf habits and linear to orbicular leaf shapes. The family has a cosmopolitan distribution and is well represented in the Tertiary fossil record in Europe. At present, the historical biogeography of the family is not well understood and the generic relationships remain controversial. In this study we investigated the phylogeny and biogeography of Hydrocharitaceae by integrating fossils and DNA sequences from eight genes. We also conducted ancestral state reconstruction for three morphological characters.

Results

Phylogenetic analyses produced a phylogeny with most branches strongly supported by bootstrap values greater than 95 and Bayesian posterior probability values of 1.0. Stratiotes is the first diverging lineage with the remaining genera in two clades, one clade consists of Lagarosiphon, Ottelia, Blyxa, Apalanthe, Elodea and Egeria; and the other consists of Hydrocharis-Limnobium, Thalassia, Enhalus, Halophila, Najas, Hydrilla, Vallisneria, Nechamandra and Maidenia. Biogeographic analyses (DIVA, Mesquite) and divergence time estimates (BEAST) resolved the most recent common ancestor of Hydrocharitaceae as being in Asia during the Late Cretaceous and Palaeocene (54.7-72.6 Ma). Dispersals (including long-distance dispersal and migrations through Tethys seaway and land bridges) probably played major roles in the intercontinental distribution of this family. Ancestral state reconstruction suggested that in Hydrocharitaceae evolution of dioecy is bidirectional, viz., from dioecy to hermaphroditism, and from hermaphroditism to dioecy, and that the aerial-submerged leaf habit and short-linear leaf shape are the ancestral states.

Conclusions

Our study has shed light on the previously controversial generic phylogeny of Hydrocharitaceae. The study has resolved the historical biogeography of this family and supported dispersal as the most likely explanation for the intercontinental distribution. We have also provided valuable information for understanding the evolution of breeding system and leaf phenotype in aquatic monocots.
Pneumatosis intestinalis and portal venous gas secondary to Gefitinib therapy for lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lee Joo Young , Han Hye-Suk , Lim Sung-Nam , Shim Young Kwang , Choi Yong Hyeok , Lee Ok-Jun , Lee Ki Hyeong , Kim Seung Taik
Published: March 2012

Background

Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI), defined as the presence of gas in the bowel wall, and portal venous gas (PVG) are relatively rare radiological findings. Although several chemotherapeutic agents and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents are reported to be associated with PI and PVG, an association with anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) agents has not been described previously.

Case presentation

The present report describes a case of PI and PVG secondary to treatment with an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. A 66-year-old woman who had been diagnosed with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma presented with nausea, vomiting and abdominal distension after commencing gefitinib. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen revealed PI extending from the ascending colon to the rectum, hepatic PVG, and infarction of the liver. Gefitinib therapy was discontinued immediately and the patient was managed conservatively. A follow-up CT scan 2 weeks later revealed that the PI and hepatic PVG had completely resolved.

Conclusion

This is the first report of PI and PVG caused by EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Although these complications are extremely rare, clinicians should be aware of the risk of PI and PVG in patients undergoing targeted molecular therapy.
Fermentation by Lactobacillus enhances anti-inflammatory effect of Oyaksungisan on LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 mouse macrophage cells
Authors: Oh You-Chang , Cho Won-Kyung , Oh Jin Hui , Im Ga Young , Jeong Yun Hee , Yang Min Cheol , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: March 2012

Background

Oyaksungisan (OY) has been used as a traditional drug in east-Asian countries. However, its effect on inflammation still remains unknown. In this study, to provide insight into the biological effects of OY and OY fermented by Lactobacillus, we investigated their effects on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated inflammation in the RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells.

Methods

The investigation was focused on whether OY and fermented OYs could inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin (PG) E2 as well as the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, nuclear factor (NF)-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells.

Results

We found that OY inhibits a little LPS-induced NO, PGE2, TNF-α and IL-6 productions as well as the expressions of iNOS and COX-2. Interestingly, the fermentation significantly increased its inhibitory effect on the expression of all pro-inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, the fermented OYs exhibited elevated inhibition on the translocation of NF-κB p65 through reduced IκBα degradation as well as the phosphorylations of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38 and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) MAPKs than untreated control or original OY.

Conclusions

Finally, the fermentation by Lactobacillus potentiates the anti-inflammatory effect of OY by inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK activity in the macrophage cells.
Number of prior episodes and the presence of depressive symptoms are associated with longer length of stay for patients with acute manic episodes
Authors: Martin-Carrasco Manuel , Gonzalez-Pinto Ana , Galan Jaime L , Ballesteros Javier , Maurino Jorge , Vieta Eduard
Published: March 2012

Background

Few studies have analyzed predictors of length of stay (LOS) in patients admitted due to acute bipolar manic episodes. The purpose of the present study was to estimate LOS and to determine the potential sociodemographic and clinical risk factors associated with a longer hospitalization. Such information could be useful to identify those patients at high risk for long LOS and to allocate them to special treatments, with the aim of optimizing their hospital management.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study recruiting adult patients with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, text revision (DSM-IV-TR) criteria) who had been hospitalized due to an acute manic episode with a Young Mania Rating Scale total score greater than 20. Bivariate correlational and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of LOS.

Results

A total of 235 patients from 44 centers were included in the study. The only factors that were significantly associated to LOS in the regression model were the number of previous episodes and the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score at admission (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with a high number of previous episodes and those with depressive symptoms during mania are more likely to stay longer in hospital. Patients with severe depressive symptoms may have a more severe or treatment-resistant course of the acute bipolar manic episode.
Intracortical injection of endothelin-1 induces cortical infarcts in mice: effect of neuronal expression of an adenosine transporter
Authors: Soylu Hanifi , Zhang Dali , Buist Richard , Martin Melanie , Albensi Benedict C , Parkinson Fiona E
Published: March 2012

Background

Activation of adenosine A1 receptors has neuroprotective effects in animal stroke models. Adenosine levels are regulated by nucleoside transporters. In vitro studies showed that neuron-specific expression of human equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1 (hENT1) decreases extracellular adenosine levels and adenosine A1 receptor activity. In this study, we tested the effect of hENT1 expression on cortical infarct size following intracerebral injection of the vasoconstrictor endothelin-1 (ET-1) or saline.

Methods

Mice underwent stereotaxic intracortical injection of ET-1 (1 μl; 400 pmol) or saline (1 μl). Some mice received the adenosine receptor antagonist caffeine (25 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) 30 minutes prior to ET-1. Perfusion and T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were used to measure cerebral blood flow (CBF) and subsequent infarct size, respectively.

Results

ET-1 reduced CBF at the injection site to 7.3 ± 1.3% (n = 12) in hENT1 transgenic (Tg) and 12.5 ± 2.0% (n = 13) in wild type (Wt) mice. At 48 hours following ET-1 injection, CBF was partially restored to 35.8 ± 4.5% in Tg and to 45.2 ± 6.3% in Wt mice; infarct sizes were significantly greater in Tg (9 ± 1.1 mm3) than Wt (5.4 ± 0.8 mm3) mice. Saline-treated Tg and Wt mice had modest decreases in CBF and infarcts were less than 1 mm3. For mice treated with caffeine, CBF values and infarct sizes were not significantly different between Tg and Wt mice.

Conclusions

ET-1 produced greater ischemic injury in hENT1 Tg than in Wt mice. This genotype difference was not observed in mice that had received caffeine. These data indicate that hENT1 Tg mice have reduced ischemia-evoked increases in adenosine receptor activity compared to Wt mice.
Translational Control of Glucose-Induced Islet Amyloid Polypeptide Production in Pancreatic Islets
Authors: Alarcon Cristina , Verchere C. Bruce , Rhodes Christopher J.
Published: March 2012

Dysfunctional islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) biosynthesis and/or processing are thought contribute to formation of islet amyloid in type 2 diabetes. However, it is unclear how normal pro-IAPP biosynthesis and processing are regulated to be able to define such dysfunction. Here, it was found that acute exposure to high glucose concentrations coordinately regulated the biosynthesis of pro-IAPP, proinsulin, and its proprotein convertase PC1/3 in normal isolated rat islets, without affecting their respective mRNA levels. Pro-7B2 biosynthesis, like that of pro-PC2, did not appreciably change, but this was likely due to a much higher expression in pancreatic α-cells masking glucose regulation of their biosynthesis in β-cells. Biosynthesis of pro-SAAS, the putative PC1/3 chaperone, was unaffected by glucose, consistent with its scarce expression in β-cells. We conclude that translational control of pro-IAPP biosynthesis, in parallel to the pro-PC1/3, pro-PC2, and pro-7B2 proprotein-processing endopeptidases/chaperones, is the predominate mechanism to produce IAPP in islet β-cells.
Experiences of non-UK-qualified doctors working within the UK regulatory framework: a qualitative study
Authors: Slowther A , Lewando Hundt GA , Purkis J , Taylor R
Published: March 2012

Objective

To explore the experience of non-UK-qualified doctors in working within the regulatory framework of the General Medical Council (GMC) document Good Medical Practice.

Design

Individual interviews and focus groups.

Setting

United Kingdom.

Participants

Non-UK-qualified doctors who had registered with the GMC between 1 April 2006 and 31 March 2008, doctors attending training/induction programmes for non-UK-qualified doctors, and key informants involved in training and support for non-UK-qualified doctors.

Main outcome measures

Themes identified from analysis of interview and focus group transcripts.

Results

Information and support for non-UK qualified doctors who apply to register to work in the UK has little reference to the ethical and professional standards required of doctors working in the UK. Recognition of the ethical, legal and cultural context of UK healthcare occurs once doctors are working in practice. Non-UK qualified doctors reported clear differences in the ethical and legal framework for practising medicine between the UK and their country of qualification, particularly in the model of the doctor–patient relationship. The degree of support for non-UK-qualified doctors in dealing with ethical concerns is related to the type of post they work in. European doctors describe similar difficulties with working in an unfamiliar regulatory framework to their non-European colleagues.

Conclusions

Non-UK-qualified doctors experience a number of difficulties related to practising within a different ethical and professional regulatory framework. Provision of information and educational resources before registration, together with in-practice support would help to develop a more effective understanding of GMP and its implications for practice in the UK.
Neonatal hypothyroidism despite maternal tri-iodothyronine toxicosis: a management problem?
Authors: V Shenoy Vasant , Nisbet Janelle , G Petersen Scott , David Mcintyre H
Published: March 2012

A primigravida was referred with hyperthyroidism in early pregnancy from longstanding Graves’ disease treated with propylthiouracil. She had selective elevation of free tri-iodothyronine (fT3) levels, low normal free tetra-iodothyronine (fT4) and suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Given her symptoms of thyrotoxicosis and elevated TSH receptor antibodies, therapy was tailored towards maintaining clinical and biochemical euthyroidism. However the fetus developed a goitre secondary to hypothyroidism. This case highlights the dilemmas in managing maternal T3 toxicosis while aiming for a high normal fT4 to prevent fetal hypothyroidism including the role of fetal ultrasound monitoring and amniocentesis.
A Review of Reality-Based 3D Model Generation, Segmentation and Web-Based Visualization Methods
Authors: Manferdini A.M. , Remondino F.
Published: March 2012

The tremendous improvements in data capturing technologies and in the related processing methodologies are opening more and more possibilities in different fields of applications. In particular the Cultural Heritage field is taking great advantages from the latest reality-based 3D modelling developments. One of the most significant consequences of the introduction of digital 3D modelling in the heritage field is the great opportunity of using 3D models as highly effective and intuitive means of communication or as interfaces to share and visualize information collected e.g. in databases. Unstructured 3D data recorded with photogrammetry or laser scanning techniques are generally converted in polygonal textured 3D models, subdivided and organized using automated and manual methods and finally visualized using web-based tools in order to allow remote access and data retrieval to a wider range of users, with evident advantages in enlarging knowledge and education. The paper presents the state-of-the-art in 3D surveying and modelling, segmentation and web-based access for heritage sites and objects (Fig. 1). The most reliable and practical approaches are presented with references and best practices. Some future perspectives are also addressed.
Measuring the Classic Marathon Course
Authors: Georgopoulos A. , Papageorgaki I. , Tapinaki S. , Ioannidis Ch.
Published: March 2012

The Classic Marathon Course in the greater Athens area is an important cultural heritage item, both tangible and intangible, as it also signifies the mentality of the ancient Greeks of the 5th c. BC. Moreover it is one of the more difficult Marathon courses in the modern era and for that reason many runners desire to compete on this course. Road courses are measured by certified experts using internationally approved methods. In this paper an alternative method for measuring the Classic Marathon Course using photogrammetric methodology is presented. The course is surveyed in a stereoscopic environment and therefore the measurement is performed directly in 3D space. Its accuracy is thoroughly investigated and its performance is compared to the approved conventional method and assessed for its efficiency and accuracy.
Long Term Monitoring of Air Pollution on Monuments and Cultural Heritage Sites in Cyprus Using Satellite Remote Sensing
Authors: Themistocleous K. , Nisantzi A. , Agapiou A. , Alexakis D. D. , Hadjimitsis D. G. , Lysandrou V. , Perdikou S. , Retalis A. , Chrysoulakis N.
Published: March 2012

Although cultural heritage sites are documented and preserved, to date there has been limited monitoring and documentation of how cultural heritage sites are affected by air pollution. This paper aims to introduce a new approach for monitoring air pollution for areas near cultural heritage sites by using satellite remotely sensed data. This approach provides a cost-effective tool for local authorities and government agencies to identify the most polluted cultural heritage sites and make decisions regarding the conservation of these sites. Archived data may be used in order to study long term the impact of air pollution to cultural heritage sites. The study area includes significant open air monuments of Cyprus located in the four main cities of the island. In this paper the Limassol Castle is used as a focused case study. Three years of MODIS satellite data was evaluated and analyzed in order to categorize high risk long-term areas. Ground measurements using sun-photometers, spectro-radiometers and particulate matter (PM10) laser photometer were also utilized in the study. The darkest pixel atmospheric correction in conjunction with the use of the radiative transfer equation was applied to retrieve the aerosol optical thickness (AOT) from Landsat TM/ETM+ satellite images in order also to cross-validate the AOT values found from MODIS and sun-photometers. The results of the study indicate that air pollution is high in all the major cities in Cyprus near cultural heritage sites. The results also found that the Limassol castle was most affected by air pollution, while the other cultural heritage sites exhibited similar results.
Processing Paths from Integrating Multimodal 3D Measurement of Shape, Color and BRDF
Authors: Sitnik R. , Krzesłowski J. , Mαczkowski G.
Published: March 2012

In this paper a description of multimodal measurement procedure, together with a complete processing path is provided as a demonstration of methods developed to perform integrated measurement and to generate a realistic 3D model. The shape and appearance of the resulting model is supposed to resemble objects behaviour in arbitrary illumination conditions. To accomplish this, the described integrated measuring device allows for accurate estimation of the 3D surface geometry, while a set of spectral filters and directional illuminators allows for multispectral color calculation and estimation of angular reflectance characteristics. The processing path is described with examples of visualized data at several stages for demonstration. Typical setup parameters and the overall time costs are also given for consideration. A real time rendering of the model is provided from several viewing directions to reveal the advantage of multimodal processing and the resemblance of object's non-trivial appearance.
E.Stone, An Archive for the Sardinia Monumental Witnesses
Authors: Verdiani Giorgio , Columbu Stefano
Published: March 2012

The “E.Stone” project is based on the survey, documentation investigation and physical, geochemical and petrographic characterisation of the great zoomorphic and phytomorphic stones of Sardinia. The name chosen to indicate this project means the full value of these stones, standing before the beginning of human history. The main task of this project is the investigation and the documentation, both based on an accurate digital survey, taken using laser scanner units supported by topographical survey and integrated by GPS tracing and photographic and photogrammetric survey, with a meaningful research aimed to specific investigations on the rock characteristics. The further development of the collected data will be aimed to the definition of a digital “state of the knowledge” about the stone. This research will produce the following main benefits: the creation of a pilot monitoring station documenting the decay processes of stones for make the future projections on based on current alteration trends; the creation of a clear and stable archive of these monuments oriented to be a preservation tool; the opportunity to allow the reply, at any distance, a copy in any material of the original item.
Three-Way Complementarities: Performance Pay, Human Resource Analytics, and Information Technology
Authors: Aral Sinan , Brynjolfsson Erik , Wu Lynn
Published: March 2012

We test for three-way complementarities among information technology (IT), performance pay, and human resource (HR) analytics practices. We develop a principal–agent model examining how these practices work together as an incentive system that produces a larger productivity premium when the practices are implemented in concert rather than separately. We assess our model by combining fine-grained data on human capital management (HCM) software adoption over 11 years with detailed survey data on incentive systems and HR analytics practices for 189 firms. We find that the adoption of HCM software is greatest in firms that have also adopted performance pay and HR analytics practices. Furthermore, HCM adoption is associated with a large productivity premium when it is implemented as a system of organizational incentives, but has less benefit when adopted in isolation. The system of three-way complements produces disproportionately greater benefits than pairwise interactions, highlighting the importance of including all three complements. Productivity increases significantly when the HCM systems “go live” but not when they are purchased, which can be years earlier. This helps rule out reverse causality as an explanation for our findings.

This paper was accepted by Sandra Slaughter, information systems.
Information Technology and Trademarks: Implications for Product Variety
Authors: Gao Guodong (Gordon) , Hitt Lorin M.
Published: March 2012

This paper examines the relationship between information technology (IT) and trademarks. Using an 11-year panel data set (1987–1997) of IT capital stock, trademark holdings, and other measures for 116 Fortune 1000 manufacturing firms, we find that IT contributes to higher trademark holdings. Further, we find evidence suggesting that firms with more IT capital tend to apply for more new trademarks and retire existing trademarks more quickly, leading to a shorter trademark life cycle. Because trademarks are mainly used by firms to communicate differences among similar products to the marketplace, these results suggest that the business value of IT can be realized in greater product variety.

This paper was accepted by Barrie Nault, information systems.
The Strategic Perils of Low Cost Outsourcing
Authors: Feng Qi , Lu Lauren Xiaoyuan
Published: March 2012

The existing outsourcing literature has generally overlooked the cost differential and contract negotiations between manufacturers and suppliers (by assuming identical cost structures and adopting the Stackelberg framework). One fundamental question yet to be addressed is whether upstream suppliers' cost efficiency is always beneficial to downstream manufacturers in the presence of competition and negotiations. In other words, does low cost outsourcing always lead to a win–win outcome? To answer this question, we adopt a multiunit bilateral bargaining framework to investigate competing manufacturers' sourcing decisions. We analyze two supply chain structures: one-to-one channels, in which each manufacturer may outsource to an exclusive supplier; and one-to-two channels, in which each manufacturer may outsource to a common supplier. We show that, under both structures, low cost outsourcing may lead to a win–lose outcome in which the suppliers gain and the manufacturers lose. This happens because suppliers' cost advantage may backfire on competing manufacturers through two negative effects. First, a decrease of upstream cost weakens a manufacturer's bargaining position by reducing her disagreement payoff (i.e., her insourcing profit) because the competing manufacturer can obtain a low cost position through outsourcing. Second, in one-to-two channels, the common supplier's bargaining position is strengthened with a lower cost because his disagreement payoff increases (i.e., his profit from serving only one manufacturer increases). The endogeneity of disagreement payoffs in our model highlights the importance of modeling firm negotiations under competition. Moreover, we identify an interesting bargaining externality between competing manufacturers when they outsource to a common supplier. Because the supplier engages in two negotiations, his share of profit from the trade with one manufacturer affects the total surplus of the trade with the other manufacturer. Because of this externality, surprisingly, as a manufacturer's bargaining power decreases, her profit under outsourcing may increase and it may be more likely for her to outsource.

This paper was accepted by Yossi Aviv, operations management.
Hiring Cheerleaders: Board Appointments of “Independent” Directors
Authors: Cohen Lauren , Frazzini Andrea , Malloy Christopher J.
Published: March 2012

We provide evidence that firms appoint independent directors who are overly sympathetic to management, while still technically independent according to regulatory definitions. We explore a subset of independent directors for whom we have detailed, microlevel data on their views regarding the firm prior to being appointed to the board: sell-side analysts who are subsequently appointed to the boards of companies they previously covered. We find that boards appoint overly optimistic analysts who are also poor relative performers. The magnitude of the optimistic bias is large: 82.0% of appointed recommendations are strong buy/buy recommendations, compared with 56.9% for all other analyst recommendations. We also show that appointed analysts' optimism is stronger at precisely those times when firms' benefits are larger. Last, we find that appointing firms are more likely to have management on the board nominating committee, appear to be poorly governed, and increase earnings management and chief executive officer compensation following these board appointments.

This paper was accepted by Brad Barber, finance.
Quantifying Managerial Ability: A New Measure and Validity Tests
Authors: Demerjian Peter , Lev Baruch , McVay Sarah
Published: March 2012

We propose a measure of managerial ability, based on managers' efficiency in generating revenues, which is available for a large sample of firms and outperforms existing ability measures. We find that our measure is strongly associated with manager fixed effects and that the stock price reactions to chief executive officer (CEO) turnovers are positive (negative) when we assess the outgoing CEO as low (high) ability. We also find that replacing CEOs with more (less) able CEOs is associated with improvements (declines) in subsequent firm performance. We conclude with a demonstration of the potential of the measure. We find that the negative relation between equity financing and future abnormal returns documented in prior research is mitigated by managerial ability. Specifically, more able managers appear to utilize equity issuance proceeds more effectively, illustrating that our more precise measure of managerial ability will allow researchers to pursue studies that were previously difficult to conduct.

This paper was accepted by Mary E. Barth, accounting.
On Fair Routing from Emergency Departments to Hospital Wards: QED Queues with Heterogeneous Servers
Authors: Mandelbaum Avishai , Momčilović Petar , Tseytlin Yulia
Published: March 2012

The interface between an emergency department and internal wards is often a hospital's bottleneck. Motivated by this interaction in an anonymous hospital, we analyze queueing systems with heterogeneous server pools, where the pools represent the wards, and the servers are beds. Our queueing system, with a single centralized queue and several server pools, forms an inverted-V model. We introduce the randomized most-idle (RMI) routing policy and analyze it in the quality- and efficiency-driven regime, which is natural in our setting. The RMI policy results in the same server fairness (measured by idleness ratios) as the longest-idle-server-first (LISF) policy, which is commonly used in call centers and considered fair. However, the RMI policy utilizes only the information on the number of idle servers in different pools, whereas the LISF policy requires information that is unavailable in hospitals on a real-time basis.

This paper was accepted by Assaf Zeevi, stochastic models and simulation.
Pioglitazone increases bone marrow fat in type 2 diabetes: results from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Grey Andrew , Beckley Vaughan , Doyle Anthony , Fenwick Sheryl , Horne Anne , Gamble Greg , Bolland Mark
Published: March 2012

Objective

To determine the effect of pioglitazone on bone marrow fat in humans.

Design

Twenty participants in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of the skeletal effects of pioglitazone 30 mg daily in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) entered a 6-month substudy evaluating bone marrow fat. Main outcome measures were bone marrow fat in lumbar spine (L4) and proximal femur (intertrochanteric region), measured using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and bone mineral density (BMD), measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Results

After 6 months, change in the fourth lumbar vertebra (L4) bone marrow lipid fraction, assessed using two different methods, was greater in the pioglitazone group than in the placebo group (Dixon method: mean (95% CI) change from baseline pioglitazone 1.3% (−0.3, 2.9), placebo −0.2% (−0.8, 0.4), P=0.06; MR spectroscopy: pioglitazone 2.5% (0.4, 4.7), placebo −1.1% (−3.7, 1.4), P=0.02). Similarly, the change in lipid fraction in the intertrochanteric region was greater in the pioglitazone group (Dixon method: mean (95% CI) change from baseline pioglitazone 1.3% (0.6, 1.9), placebo −0.8% (−1.8, 0.2), P=0.001). Within the pioglitazone group, there was no evidence of a significant relationship between change in marrow lipid fraction and BMD.

Conclusions

Short-term treatment with pioglitazone increases bone marrow fat in patients with T2DM.
Liposomal doxorubicin-based treatment in a preclinical model of adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Hantel Constanze , Lewrick Felicitas , Reincke Martin , Süss Regine , Beuschlein Felix
Published: March 2012

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare endocrine tumor entity with poor prognosis. Medical treatment is limited to common cytotoxic agents, which are associated with low treatment responses. Thus, lack of therapeutic efficacy demands innovative treatment options for patients with advanced ACC. Recently, we have developed and characterized anti-IGF1 receptor (IGF1-R) immunoliposomes (SSLD-1H7) for the treatment of neuroendocrine tumors of the gastroenteropancreatic system. As previous results indicated putative applicability also for other IGF1-R-overexpressing tumor entities, we initiated testing of liposomal preparations inin vitroandin vivomodels of ACC. Adrenocortical NCIh295 cells were used forin vitroassociation studies with different liposomal formulations. Thereby, flow cytometry revealed high cellular association and internalization of anti-IGF1-R immunoliposomes (soy phosphatidylcholine (SPC)/cholesterol (Chol)–polyethyleneglycol (PEG)-1H7, 50.1±2.2%). Moreover, internalization of pegylated liposomes (SPC/Chol–PEG, 57.1±2.4%) and an even higher uptake of plain liposomes (84.6±0.8%;P<0.0001) were detectable in adrenocortical tumor cells.In vivo, liposomal treatments were investigated on NCIh295 tumor xenografts in pharmacokinetic and therapeutic experiments. A significant reduction in tumor size was detectable in NCIh295 tumor-bearing mice after a single treatment with SSLD-1H7 (0.89±0.15 cm;P=0.006) and a diminished efficacy for SSLD–PEG+ (1.01±0.19 cm;P=0.04) in comparison with untreated controls (1.5±0.0 cm). Thus, anti-IGF1-R immunoliposomes have been successfully testedin vitroandin vivoin a preclinical model for ACCs and could, therefore, represent a promising therapeutic approach for this tumor entity. Moreover, a combination of mitotane plus liposomally encapsulated cytostatic agents instead of free drugs could also be an interesting novel treatment option for ACC in the future.
The mutual dependence between bone and gonads
Authors: Karsenty Gerard
Published: March 2012

It has long been known that sex steroid hormones regulate bone mass accrual. This observation raises the testable hypothesis that bone may in turn regulate the synthesis and secretion of sex steroid hormones in one or both genders. This hypothesis is comprised within a more general hypothesis that bone mass, energy metabolism, and reproduction are regulated coordinately. The identification of osteocalcin as an osteoblast-specific secreted molecule allows us to address this question in molecular terms. This review details how the regulation of male fertility by osteocalcin was unraveled, and how osteocalcin signaling in Leydig cells of the testis occurs. It also discusses the implication of this novel mode of regulation of testosterone synthesis observed in males but not in females.