bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VERY-HIGH ENERGY PROCESSES IN BLACK HOLE MAGNETOSPHERE: THE CASE OF M87
Authors: VINCENT STEPHANE
Published: March 2014

M87 is a nearby radio galaxy that is detected at energies ranging from radio to very high energy (VHE) γ-rays. Its proximity and its jet, misaligned from our line of sight, enable detailed morphological studies. The detection of rapidly variable TeV emissions on timescale of ~ 1 day implies a source of a few Schwarzschild radii R Sch . The γ-ray telescopes cannot provide images with a sufficient resolution to localize the sites of the γ-ray production. However, both X-ray and radio observations have shown evidence that charged particles are accelerated in the immediate vicinity of the black hole closer than 100 R Sch . We propose that the non-thermal particle acceleration and the VHE emission processes may occur in a pair-starved region of the black hole (BH) magnetosphere. We produce a broadband spectral energy distribution (SED) of the resulting radiation and compare the model with the observed fluxes from the nucleus of M87 for the high γ-ray activities.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN REAL AND PARTICLE-IN-CELL PLASMAS: EFFECTS OF COARSE-GRAINING
Authors: MELZANI MICKAËL , WALDER ROLF , FOLINI DORIS , WINISDOERFFER CHRISTOPHE
Published: March 2014

The PIC model relies on two building blocks. The first stems from the capability of computers to handle only up to ~ 1010 particles, while real plasmas contain from 104 to 1020 particles per Debye sphere: a coarse-graining step must be used, whereby of the order of p ~ 1010 real particles are represented by a single computer superparticle. The second is field storage on a grid with its subsequent finite superparticle size. We introduce the notion of coarse-graining dependent quantities, i.e. physical quantities depending on the number p. They all derive from the plasma parameter Λ, which we show to be proportional to 1/p.

We explore three examples: the rapid collision- and fluctuation-induced thermalization of plasmas with different temperatures, that scale with the number of superparticles per grid cell and are a factor p ~ 1010 faster than in real plasmas; the high level of electrostatic fluctuations in a thermal plasma, with corrections due to the finite superparticle sizes; and the blurring of the linear spectrum of the filamentation instability, where the fastest growing modes do not dominate the total energy because of a high level of fluctuations.

We stress that the enhanced collisions and correlations of PIC plasmas must be kept negligible toward kinetic physics.
OPTICAL PHOTOMETRIC MONITORING OF LS I +61 303
Authors: PAREDES-FORTUNY X. , RIBÓ M. , FORS O. , NÚÑEZ J. , BOSCH-RAMON V.
Published: March 2014

Three gamma-ray binaries, namely PSR B1259–63, HESS J0632+057 and LS I +61 303, contain compact objects orbiting around massive Be stars. Around periastron passage the compact objects should produce significant changes in the structure of the Be disks due to gravitational forces and eventually by ram pressure from the putative pulsar wind. Indeed, variability in the Hα emission line has been detected in all these systems, and optical periodic variability has been detected in one of them. However, there is lack of a systematic monitoring with accurate photometry, which could be used to constrain the shape of the disk during the periastron passage. This information is important to build accurate physical models to explain the broadband spectral energy distribution of these sources. Here we present an ongoing program to monitor the optical photometry of gamma-ray binaries and show preliminary results for the case of LS I +61 303.
MEAN FIELD DYNAMO IN THICK DISKS AROUND KERR BLACK HOLES: HIGH ORDER AXISYMMETRIC SIMULATIONS
Authors: BUGLI M. , DEL ZANNA L. , BUCCIANTINI N.
Published: March 2014

We present here a kinematic study of dynamo effects in thick accretion disks using the most recent version of the ECHO code. This allowed us to perform high-order simulations of a resistive plasma within the 3 + 1 GRMHD frame with a fully covariant mean-field dynamo closure for the Ohm's law. The magnetic field goes through an exponential growth within few orbital periods of the disk, and we derive butterfly diagrams qualitatively in the same fashion as in the Sun. Finally, a typical time-scale of the field evolution is found, that depends on the dynamo and resistivity parameters and that could be related to the periodicities observed in several accreting systems.
GIANT MAGNETO-ELECTROLUMINESCENCE FROM HYBRID SPIN-ORGANIC LIGHT EMITTING DIODES
Authors: SUN DALI , BASEL TEK P. , GAUTAM BHOJ R. , HAN WEI , JIANG XIN , PARKIN STUART S. P. , VARDENY Z. VALY
Published: March 2014

An important application that may boost the use of magnetic-field controlled organic devices is significant magnetically modulated electroluminescence (MEL) at room temperature (RT). Whereas inorganic magnetic tunnel junctions show RT magneto-resistance (MR)> 80%, these devices do not exhibit electroluminescence. In contrast, organic light-emitting diodes (OLED) show substantive electroluminescence. Alas, at RT both organic spin valves and spin-OLEDs have shown rather small MR and MEL. We report here a hybrid organic/inorganic magnetic-field controlled device (h-OLED) which comprises of an inorganic magnetic tunnel junction with large room temperature MR, and OLED having efficient electroluminescence. At RT the h-OLED devices exhibit up to 80% giant MEL in the red, green, and blue spectral ranges. Moreover studies of "white" h-OLED devices show a surprising magnetic-field controlled color manipulation. The h-OLED devices may open a new avenue in the application of multifunctional organic displays.
Systems-Level Analysis of Innate Immunity
Authors: Zak Daniel E. , Tam Vincent C. , Aderem Alan
Published: March 2014

Systems-level analysis of biological processes strives to comprehensively and quantitatively evaluate the interactions between the relevant molecular components over time, thereby enabling development of models that can be employed to ultimately predict behavior. Rapid development in measurement technologies (omics), when combined with the accessible nature of the cellular constituents themselves, is allowing the field of innate immunity to take significant strides toward this lofty goal. In this review, we survey exciting results derived from systems biology analyses of the immune system, ranging from gene regulatory networks to influenza pathogenesis and systems vaccinology.
Coworkers Behaving Badly: The Impact of Coworker Deviant Behavior upon Individual Employees
Authors: Robinson Sandra L. , Wang Wei , Kiewitz Christian
Published: March 2014

This article provides a review of the literature addressing the impact of coworkers’ deviant, dysfunctional, or counterproductive behaviors upon individual employees. We provide a framework for the collection of findings on this issue, revealing that coworker deviant behavior negatively impacts individual employees’ attitudes, affect, and actions through three routes: (a) direct impact, whereby an employee is the target of coworkers’ deviant behaviors; (b) vicarious impact, whereby an employee is impacted by witnessing or learning of coworkers’ deviant behaviors; and (c) ambient impact, whereby an employee is impacted by working in an environment characterized by collective coworker deviant behavior. In our discussion of these routes of influence, we outline the relevant empirical findings for and theoretical perspectives of each, as well as the moderators of these effects. We conclude our review by identifying recommended future research directions based upon our critical assessment of this literature.
Delineating and Reviewing the Role of Newcomer Capital in Organizational Socialization
Authors: Bauer Talya N. , Erdogan Berrin
Published: March 2014

In this article, the organizational socialization literature is reviewed through the lens of newcomer capital. We give an overview of the socialization literature and examine established and proposed linkages among four components of newcomer personal capital: human, social, psychological, and cultural capital. Then, we theoretically explore and discuss how the socialization adjustment process, consisting of newcomer experience, role clarity, social acceptance, and self-efficacy, is affected by these types of capital for newcomers, veteran employees, and organizations. We hope that identifying and summarizing these links in one review article will help to advance research in both the capital and organizational socialization literatures.
Epithelial VEGF signaling is required in the mouse liver for proper sinusoid endothelial cell identity and hepatocyte zonation in vivo
Authors: Walter Teagan J. , Cast Ashley E. , Huppert Kari A. , Huppert Stacey S.
Published: March 2014

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is crucial for vascular development in several organs. However, the specific contribution of epithelial-VEGF signaling in the liver has not been tested. We used a mouse model to specifically delete Vegf from the liver epithelial lineages during midgestational development and assessed the cell identities and architectures of epithelial and endothelial tissues. We find that without epithelial-derived VEGF, the zonal endothelial and hepatocyte cell identities are altered. We also find decreased portal vein and hepatic artery branching coincident with an increase in hepatic hypoxia postnatally. Together, these data indicate that VEGF secreted from the hepatic epithelium is required for normal differentiation of cells and establishment of three-dimensional vascular branching and zonal architectures in both epithelial and endothelial hepatic tissues.
Ventilation heterogeneity in obesity
Authors: Pellegrino Riccardo , Gobbi Alessandro , Antonelli Andrea , Torchio Roberto , Gulotta Carlo , Pellegrino Giulia Michela , Dellacà Raffaele , Hyatt Robert E. , Brusasco Vito
Published: March 2014

Obesity is associated with important decrements in lung volumes. Despite this, ventilation remains normally or near normally distributed at least for moderate decrements in functional residual capacity (FRC). We tested the hypothesis that this is because maximum flow increases presumably as a result of an increased lung elastic recoil. Forced expiratory flows corrected for thoracic gas compression volume, lung volumes, and forced oscillation technique at 5–11–19 Hz were measured in 133 healthy subjects with a body mass index (BMI) ranging from 18 to 50 kg/m2. Short-term temporal variability of ventilation heterogeneity was estimated from the interquartile range of the frequency distribution of the difference in inspiratory resistance between 5 and 19 Hz (R5–19_IQR). FRC % predicted negatively correlated with BMI ( r = −0.72, P < 0.001) and with an increase in slope of either maximal ( r = −0.34, P < 0.01) or partial flow-volume curves ( r = −0.30, P < 0.01). Together with a slight decrease in residual volume, this suggests an increased lung elastic recoil. Regression analysis of R5–19_IQRagainst FRC % predicted and expiratory reserve volume (ERV) yielded significantly higher correlation coefficients by nonlinear than linear fitting models ( r2= 0.40 vs. 0.30 for FRC % predicted and r2= 0.28 vs. 0.19 for ERV). In conclusion, temporal variability of ventilation heterogeneities increases in obesity only when FRC falls approximately below 65% of predicted or ERV below 0.6 liters. Above these thresholds distribution is quite well preserved presumably as a result of an increase in lung recoil.
Lymphocyte Telomere Length Is Long in BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutation Carriers Regardless of Cancer-Affected Status
Authors: Pooley Karen A. , McGuffog Lesley , Barrowdale Daniel , Frost Debra , Ellis Steve D. , Fineberg Elena , Platte Radka , Izatt Louise , Adlard Julian , Bardwell Julian , Brewer Carole , Cole Trevor , Cook Jackie , Davidson Rosemarie , Donaldson Alan , Dorkins Huw , Douglas Fiona , Eason Jacqueline , Houghton Catherine , Kennedy M. John , McCann Emma , Miedzybrodzka Zosia , Murray Alex , Porteous Mary E. , Rogers Mark T. , Side Lucy E. , Tischkowitz Marc , Walker Lisa , Hodgson Shirley , Eccles Diana M. , Morrison Patrick J. , Evans D. Gareth , Eeles Rosalind A. , Antoniou Antonis C. , Easton Douglas F. , Dunning Alison M.
Published: March 2014

Background: Telomere length has been linked to risk of common diseases, including cancer, and has previously been proposed as a biomarker for cancer risk. Germline BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations predispose to breast, ovarian, and other cancer types.

Methods: We investigated telomere length in BRCA mutation carriers and their non-carrier relatives and further examined whether telomere length is a modifier of cancer risk in mutation carriers. We measured mean telomere length in DNA extracted from whole blood using high-throughput quantitative PCR. Participants were from the EMBRACE study in United Kingdom and Eire (n = 4,822) and comprised BRCA1 (n = 1,628) and BRCA2 (n = 1,506) mutation carriers and their non-carrier relatives (n = 1,688).

Results: We find no significant evidence that mean telomere length is associated with breast or ovarian cancer risk in BRCA mutation carriers. However, we find mutation carriers to have longer mean telomere length than their non-carrier relatives (all carriers vs. non-carriers, Ptrend = 0.0018), particularly in families with BRCA2 mutations (BRCA2 mutation carriers vs. all non-carriers, Ptrend = 0.0016).

Conclusions: Our findings lend little support to the hypothesis that short mean telomere length predisposes to cancer. Conversely, our main and unexpected finding is that BRCA mutation carriers (regardless of cancer status) have longer telomeres than their non-mutation carrier, non–cancer-affected relatives. The longer telomere length in BRCA2 mutation carriers is consistent with its role in DNA damage response. Overall, it seems that increased telomere length may be a consequence of these mutations, but is not itself directly related to the increased cancer risk in carriers.

Impact: The finding that mutation carriers have longer mean telomere lengths than their non-carrier relatives is unexpected but biologically plausible and could open up new lines of research into the functions of the BRCA proteins. To our knowledge, this is the largest study of telomere length in BRCA mutation carriers and their relatives. The null cancer-risk association supports recent large prospective studies of breast and ovarian cancer and indicates that mean telomere length would not be a useful biomarker in these cancers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(6); 1018–24. ©2014 AACR.
Tailoring Peptidomimetics for Targeting Protein–Protein Interactions
Authors: Akram Omar N. , DeGraff David J. , Sheehan Jonathan H. , Tilley Wayne D. , Matusik Robert J. , Ahn Jung-Mo , Raj Ganesh V.
Published: March 2014

Protein–protein interactions (PPI) are a hallmark of cellular signaling. Such interactions occur abundantly within the cellular milieu and encompass interactions involved in vital cellular processes. Understanding the various types, mechanisms, and consequences of PPIs with respect to cellular signaling and function is vital for targeted drug therapy. Various types of small-molecule drugs and targeted approaches to drug design have been developed to modulate PPIs. Peptidomimetics offer an exciting class of therapeutics as they can be designed to target specific PPIs by mimicking key recognition motifs found at critical points in the interface of PPIs (e.g., hotspots). In contrast to peptides, peptidomimetics do not possess a natural peptide backbone structure but present essential functional groups in a required three-dimensional pattern complimentary to the protein-binding pocket. This design feature overcomes many limitations of peptide therapeutics including limited stability toward peptidases, poor transport across biologic membranes, and poor target specificity. Equally important is deciphering the structural requirements and amino acid residues critical to PPIs. This review provides an up-to-date perspective of the complexity of cellular signaling and strategies for targeting PPIs in disease states, particularly in cancer, using peptidomimetics, and highlights that the rational design of agents that target PPIs is not only feasible but is of the utmost clinical importance. Mol Cancer Res; 12(7); 967–78. ©2014 AACR.
Carvedilol Protects against Iron-Induced Microparticle Generation and Apoptosis of Endothelial Cells
Authors: Chan Shing , Chen Mei-pian , Cao Jia-min , Chan Godfrey C.F. , Cheung Yiu-fai
Published: March 2014

Background: Increased circulating endothelial microparticles (EMPs) have been shown to associate with endothelial dysfunction. We explored the effect of iron on EMP generation by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and the potential protective effect of carvedilol. Methods: FeCl3 was added to HUVEC culture. Iron entry into cells was monitored using fluorescent microscopic imaging, while the quantity of EMPs that was released was determined by flow cytometry. The apoptosis of HUVECs was assessed by annexin V/propidium iodide assay and caspase-3 expression. Membrane bleb formation was visualized using electron microscopy. Intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was also monitored. The effects of beta-blockers, carvedilol and propranolol on these processes were determined by co-incubation in a dose-dependent manner. Iron entry into HUVECs was not blocked by either beta-blocker. Iron induced the generation of EMPs, the formation of membrane blebs, the apoptosis of HUVECs and the production of ROS, each in a dose-dependent manner. Carvedilol, but not propranolol, ameliorated all of these processes. Results: Our result indicates that iron induces EMP generation and apoptosis of endothelial cells in association with increased oxidative stress. Conclusion: The protective effects of carvedilol, via its antioxidant effect, may have therapeutic potential in patients with iron overload.
An Epigenetic Screen Unmasks Metallothioneins as Putative Contributors to Renal Cell Carcinogenesis
Authors: Alkamal Imad , Ikromov Odiljon , Tölle Angelika , Fuller Tom Florian , Magheli Ahmed , Miller Kurt , Krause Hans , Kempkensteffen Carsten
Published: March 2014

Objective: Functional epigenetic studies aimed to re-express transcriptionally silenced genes in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) may facilitate the ongoing search for appropriate markers supporting clinical decision-making. Methods: The RCC cell line A-498 was treated with the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor zebularine under low-cytotoxicity conditions. RNA chip analyses revealed several upregulated transcripts that were further validated by qPCR on 49 matched pairs of human kidney tissues to identify suitable marker candidates. Results: Members of the metallothionein (MT) group were remarkably downregulated in tumor tissues. MT1G and MT1H expression was decreased in 98% of cases, whereas MT2A expression was downregulated in 73% of all cases. Comparison of 308 reactivated transcripts upregulated more than 1.5-fold to published data revealed a high number of shared candidates, which supports the consistency of this experimental approach. Conclusion: MTs were found to be transcriptionally inactivated in human RCC. Our observations support the hypothesis of a possible involvement of these metalloproteins in renal cell carcinogenesis. Additional functional studies of these genes may provide clues for understanding renal cancers as essentially metabolic diseases.
Comparison of Potential Risks between Intracranial and Extracranial Vertebral Artery Dissections
Authors: Shin Dong Hoon , Hong Ji Man , Lee Jin Soo , Nasim Rezanejad , Sohn Sung Il , Kim Suk Jae , Bang Oh Young
Published: March 2014

Background/Aims: To better understand potential risks for vertebral artery (VA) dissection (VAD), we compared intracranial and extracranial VADs. Methods: We analyzed consecutively admitted VAD patients over a 9-year period in whom VAD was confirmed by angiography. All patients were categorized as having intracranial or extracranial VAD, and demographic and radiological characteristics of VAD were compared. We used multivariate analysis to predict the risks for intracranial and extracranial VADs. Results: The study population (n = 74) had a mean age of 46.0 ± 10.3 years. VAD was more frequent in the nondominant VA (n = 49, 66.2%). Vertical nidus of VAD was more common in the intracranial segment (81.1%), and more particularly it was most frequently located within a 2-mm perimeter of the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) orifice (60.0%). Absence of traumatic history (OR 13.1, 95% CI 1.6-107.4; p = 0.016), history of hypertension (OR 14.1, 95% CI 1.1-184.6; p = 0.043) and aging (OR 1.1 per 1-year increase, 95% CI 1.0-1.2; p = 0.038) were independent predictors of intracranial VAD. Conclusion: As compared to extracranial VAD, intracranial VAD was particularly frequent and particularly vulnerable at the perimeters of the PICA and nondominant VA and was associated with an absent trauma history, hypertension and aging. Formation of VAD appeared to be different according to intracranial or extracranial involvement.
Netrin-1 Promotes Epithelial Sodium Channel-Mediated Alveolar Fluid Clearance via Activation of the Adenosine 2B Receptor in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury
Authors: He Jing , Zhao Yan , Deng Wang , Wang Dao-xin
Published: March 2014

Background: The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is the driving force for pulmonary edema absorption in acute lung injury (ALI). Netrin-1 is a newly found anti-inflammatory factor that works by activating the adenosine 2B receptor (A2BAR). Meanwhile, activated A2BAR has the potential to enhance ENaC-dependent alveolar fluid clearance (AFC). However, whether netrin-1 can increase ENaC-mediated AFC by activating A2BAR remains unclear. Objectives: To investigate the effect of netrin-1 on AFC in ALI and clarify the pathway via which netrin-1 regulates the expression of ENaC in vivo and in vitro. Methods: An ALI model was established by intratracheal instillation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 5 mg/kg) in C57BL/J mice, followed by netrin-1 with or without pretreatment with PSB1115, via the caudal vein. Twenty-four hours later, the lungs were isolated for determination of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, the lung wet/dry weight (W/D) ratio, AFC, the expressions of α-, β-, and γ-ENaC, and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels. LPS-stimulated MLE-12 cells were incubated with netrin-1 with or without preincubation with PSB1115. Twenty-four hours later, the expressions of α-, β-, and γ-ENaC were detected. Results: In vivo, netrin-1 expression was significantly decreased during ALI. Substituted netrin-1 significantly dampened the lung injury, decreased the W/D ratio, and enhanced AFC, the expressions of α-, β-, and γ-ENaC, and cAMP levels in ALI, which were abolished by specific A2BAR inhibitor PSB1115. In vitro, netrin-1 increased the expressions of α-, β-, and γ-ENaC, which were prevented by PSB1115. Conclusion: These results indicate that netrin-1 dampens pulmonary inflammation and increases ENaC-mediated AFC to alleviate pulmonary edema in LPS-induced ALI by enhancing cAMP levels through the activation of A2BAR.
Comparison of Complications of the Suprameatal Approach and Mastoidectomy with Posterior Tympanotomy Approach in Cochlear Implantation: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xu Bai-Cheng , Wang Su-Yang , Liu Xiao-Wen , Yang Ke-Hu , Zhu Yi-Ming , Chen Xing-Jian , Du Wan , Li Yong , Chen Chi , Guo Yu-Fen
Published: March 2014

Background: Cochlear implantation (CI) is a popular procedure to preserve hearing in patients with severe-to-profound hearing loss. Evidence shows that the suprameatal approach (SMA) may help reducing the risk of the incidence of complications and shortening the surgery time, but there is still dispute. Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of complications of SMA and the mastoidectomy with posterior tympanotomy approach (MPTA), and to find whether SMA yields better outcomes than MPTA. Methods: We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, the Web of Science and Chinese Biomedical Literature databases, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Chinese Science and Technology Journal Full-Text database, and Wangfang database. The latest data was accessed in March 2013. Review Manager 5.1 software was used for comprehensive quantification data analysis. Results: Three studies were included in the meta-analysis, composed of 799 participants and reporting major and minor complications. The meta-analysis indicated no statistically significant difference in major and minor complications between the two approaches, except for facial nerve and chorda tympani injuries (OR = 0.13; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.67; p = 0.02; I2 = 0%). Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that SMA may be clearly a good alternative to the classical surgery technique for CI in terms of reducing the incidence of facial nerve injury and chorda tympani sacrifice.
Histomorphology and Immunohistochemistry of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter of the Least Shrew (Cryptotis Parva)
Authors: Al-Tikriti Mohammed S. , Khamas Wael , Chebolu Seetha , Darmani Nissar A.
Published: March 2014

The biochemical and histopathological changes in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in the pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease have gained interest. The least shrew is able to vomit in response to emetogens and provides a good model to study the histology of this phenomenon relative to the published reports in the commonly used but vomit-incompetent laboratory species. The LES is located at the junction of the esophagus and stomach. It typically closes at rest and opens in response to swallowing. Our findings demonstrate that the least shrew does not have a well-defined LES, lacks esophageal glands and has a mucosal valve-like projection from the terminal end of the esophagus before joining the gastric epithelium at the lesser curvature. In addition, the least shrew has thoracic and abdominal components prior to joining the gastric epithelium. The mucosal lining of the esophagus is folded, becoming clearly convoluted and forming a bucket-like structure at the level of the esophageocardiac junction (ECJ). No significant differences are to be found between the structure and thickness of the wall before and after the ECJ. Thus, the ECJ forming the LES is relatively less complex than those of other mammals including man. The distribution of enterochromaffin (EC) cells is confined to the lamina propria of the junction and is not associated with the cardiac glands, suggesting its functional involvement with the smooth muscle in and around the ECJ. In conclusion, the least shrew's anatomical sphincter appears ill-defined and is replaced by a less sturdy valve-like mucosal flap.
Severe Gangrene Accompanied by Varicella Zoster Virus-Related Vasculitis Mimicking Rheumatoid Vasculitis
Authors: Tanaka Aya , Hayaishi Nagako , Kondo Yukari , Kurachi Kishiro , Tanemura Atsushi , Katayama Ichiro
Published: March 2014

Herpes zoster infection occurs more frequently and severely in immunosuppressed populations. However, the condition sometimes presents with atypical clinical manifestations of the skin, which makes it difficult to reach a correct diagnosis. We experienced a case of acral gangrene caused by varicella zoster virus (VZV)-related vasculitis in a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patient. Histologically, necrotic vasculitis was observed; however, there were initially no findings in the epidermis suggestive of a viral infection. We thought that the skin ulcer was related to rheumatoid vasculitis. However, an immunohistochemical analysis for VZV confirmed VZV infection in the vascular endothelium of the dermis, leading to effective treatment with intravenous acyclovir. Since various pathogenic skin phenotypes are observed in RA patients, modified according to the status of immunosuppression, clinicians must recognize the variation in typical and atypical manifestations in order to manage these patients.
Circulating Tumor Cell Data: Integration with Imaging and Serum Tumor Markers for Metastatic Breast Cancer Patient Management
Authors: Marsland Thomas , Schuur Eric R.
Published: March 2014

Management of metastatic breast cancer is critical to maximizing survival with good quality of life. Circulating tumor cell (CTC) levels in the peripheral blood hold promise for enabling improved patient care. We describe a case of a 47-year-old female with infiltrating ductal carcinoma who developed metastatic disease. Serum tumor markers were discordant with imaging studies at several time points. CTC levels were used to support decision making in light of the discordant data. The use of this tool enabled prompt changes in therapy with progressive disease and supported suspending therapy to enable recovery from treatment adverse effects when a significant response was detected by imaging and CTCs were absent from the peripheral circulation. The additional information provided by CTC enumeration helped clarify disease status and provided support for treatment decisions.
Circulating Osteoglycin and NGAL/MMP9 Complex Concentrations Predict 1-Year Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events After Coronary Angiography
Authors: Cheng Jin M. , Akkerhuis K. Martijn , Meilhac Olivier , Oemrawsingh Rohit M. , Garcia-Garcia Hector M. , van Geuns Robert-Jan , Piquer Dominique , Merle Delphine , du Paty Emilie , Galéa Pascale , Jaisser Frederic , Rossignol Patrick , Serruys Patrick W. , Boersma Eric , Fareh Jeannette , Kardys Isabella
Published: March 2014

Objective—

Previous proteomics experiments have demonstrated that several proteins are differentially expressed in vulnerable human carotid plaques compared with stable plaques. This study aims to investigate the prognostic value of 13 such circulating biomarkers in patients with coronary artery disease.

Approach and Results—

Between 2008 and 2011, 768 patients who underwent coronary angiography for acute coronary syndrome or stable angina pectoris were included in a prospective biomarker study. Plasma concentrations of 13 biomarkers were measured in 88 patients who experienced a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) within 1 year and 176 control patients without MACE who were matched on age, sex, and number of diseased coronary vessels. MACE comprised all-cause mortality, acute coronary syndrome, unplanned coronary revascularization, and stroke. After adjustment for established cardiovascular risk factors, osteoglycin (OGN; odds ratio per SD increase in ln-transformed OGN, 1.53; 95% confidence interval, 1.11–2.11;
P
=0.010) and neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin/matrix metalloproteinase 9 (NGAL/MMP9; odds ratio per SD increase in ln-transformed NGAL/MMP9, 1.37; 95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.85;
P
=0.042) complex were independently associated with MACE during follow-up. These associations were independent of C-reactive protein levels. Adding OGN or NGAL/MMP9 to a model containing conventional risk factors did not significantly improve discriminatory power (OGN: area under receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.75 versus 0.67; NGAL/MMP9: 0.73 versus 0.67) but did significantly improve risk reclassification (OGN: net reclassification index=0.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.05–0.53;
P
<0.019; NGAL/MMP9: net reclassification index=0.44; 95% confidence interval, 0.20–0.69;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Circulating OGN and NGAL/MMP9 complex are promising biomarkers that are expressed in vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques and may have incremental value for prediction of MACE within 1 year after coronary angiography.
Incidence and Clinical Impact of Stent Fracture After the Nobori Biolimus‐Eluting Stent Implantation
Authors: Kuramitsu Shoichi , Iwabuchi Masashi , Yokoi Hiroyoshi , Domei Takenori , Sonoda Shinjo , Hiromasa Takashi , Morinaga Takashi , Kobayashi Yohei , Ohe Kensuke , Goya Kaoru , Yamaji Kyohei , Hyodo Makoto , Soga Yoshimitsu , Kondo Katsuhiro , Shirai Shinichi , Ando Kenji , Sakai Koyu , Nobuyoshi Masakiyo
Published: March 2014

Background

Stent fracture (
SF
) after drug‐eluting stent implantation has become an important concern. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence, predictors, and clinical impact of
SF
after biolimus‐eluting stent.

Methods and Results

A total of 1026 patients with 1407 lesions undergoing the Nobori biolimus‐eluting stent implantation and follow‐up angiography within 9 months after index procedure were analyzed.
SF
was defined as complete or partial separation of the stent, as assessed by using plain fluoroscopy, intravascular ultrasound, or optical coherence tomography during the follow‐up. We assessed the rate of
SF
and the cumulative incidence of clinically driven target lesion revascularization and definite stent thrombosis within 9 months.
SF
was observed in 58 (4.1%) of 1407 lesions and 57 (5.5%) of 1026 patients. Lesions with hinge motion (
OR
8.90, 95%
CI
3.84 to 20.6,
P
<0.001), tortuosity (
OR
4.16, 95%
CI
1.75 to 9.88,
P
=0.001), and overlapping stents (
OR
2.41, 95%
CI
0.95 to 6.10,
P
=0.06) were predictors of
SF
. Cumulative incidence of clinically driven target lesion revascularization within 9 months was numerically higher in the
SF
group than that in the non‐
SF
group (12.0% versus 1.0%). Cumulative incidence of definite stent thrombosis within 9 months tended to be higher in the
SF
group than that in the non‐
SF
group (1.7% versus 0.5%).

Conclusions

SF
after biolimus‐eluting stent occurs in 4.1% of lesions and appears to be associated with clinically driven target lesion revascularization.
A Randomized Pilot Study of Aortic Waveform Guided Therapy in Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Borlaug Barry A. , Olson Thomas P. , Abdelmoneim Mohamed Sahar , Melenovsky Vojtech , Sorrell Vincent L. , Noonan Kelly , Lin Grace , Redfield Margaret M.
Published: March 2014

Background

Medication treatment decisions in heart failure (
HF
) are currently informed by measurements of brachial artery pressure, but ventricular afterload is more accurately represented by central aortic pressure, which differs from brachial pressure. We sought to determine whether aggressive titration of vasoactive medicines beyond goal‐directed heart failure medical therapy (
GDMT
) based upon aortic pressure improves exercise capacity and cardiovascular structure‐function.

Methods and Results

Subjects with chronic
HF
(n=50) underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing, echocardiography, and arterial tonometry to measure aortic pressure and augmentation index, and were then randomized to aortic pressure‐guided treatment (active, n=23) or conventional therapy (control, n=27). Subjects returned for 6 monthly visits wherein
GDMT
was first optimized. Additional vasoactive therapies were then sequentially added with the goal to reduce aortic augmentation index to 0% (active) or if brachial pressure remained elevated (control). Subjects randomized to active treatment experienced greater improvement in peak oxygen consumption compared with controls (1.37±3.76 versus −0.65±2.21 mL min
−1
 kg
−1
,
P
=0.025) though reductions in aortic augmentation index were similar (−7±9% versus −5±6%,
P
=0.46). Forward stroke volume increased while arterial elastance and left ventricular volumes decreased in all participants, with no between‐group difference. Subjects randomized to active treatment were more likely to receive additional vasoactive therapies including nitrates, aldosterone antagonists and hydralazine, with no increased risk of hypotension or worsening renal function.

Conclusions

Maximization of goal‐directed medical therapy in heart failure patients may enhance afterload reduction and lead to reverse remodeling, while additional medicine titration based upon aortic pressure data improves exercise capacity in patients with heart failure.
Difference in Aneurysm Characteristics Between Ruptured and Unruptured Aneurysms in Patients With Multiple Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Backes Daan , Vergouwen Mervyn D.I. , Velthuis Birgitta K. , van der Schaaf Irene C. , Bor A. Stijntje E. , Algra Ale , Rinkel Gabriel J.E.
Published: March 2014

Background and Purpose—

Prediction of the risk of rupture of unruptured intracranial aneurysms is mainly based on aneurysm size and location. Previous studies identified features of aneurysm shape and flow angles as additional risk factors for aneurysm rupture, but these studies were at risk for confounding by patient-specific risk factors such as hypertension and age. In this study, we avoided this risk by comparing characteristics of ruptured and unruptured aneurysms in patients with both aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and multiple intracranial aneurysms.

Methods—

We included patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and multiple aneurysms who presented to our hospital between 2003 and 2013. We identified the ruptured aneurysm based on bleeding pattern on head computed tomography or surgical findings. Aneurysm characteristics (size, location, shape, aspect ratio [neck-to-dome length / neck-width], flow angles, sidewall or bifurcation type, and contact with bone) were evaluated on computed tomographic angiograms. We calculated odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals with conditional univariable logistic regression analysis. Analyses were repeated after adjustment for aneurysm size and location.

Results—

The largest aneurysm had not ruptured in 36 (29%) of the 124 included patients with 302 aneurysms. Odds ratios for aspect ratio ≥1.3 was 3.3 (95% confidence intervals [1.3–8.4]) and odds ratios for irregular shape was 3.0 (95% confidence intervals [1.0–8.8]), both after adjustment for aneurysm size and location.

Conclusions—

Aspect ratio ≥1.3 and irregular shape are associated with aneurysm rupture independent of aneurysm size and location, and independent of patient characteristics. Additional studies need to assess to what extent these factors increase the risks of rupture of small aneurysms in absolute terms.
The Increasing Complementarity between Cognitive and Social Skills
Authors: Weinberger Catherine J.
Published: March 2014

Data linking 1972 and 1992 adolescent skill endowments to adult outcomes reveal increasing complementarity between cognitive and social skills. In fact, previously noted growth in demand for cognitive skills affected only individuals with strong endowments of both social and cognitive skills. These findings are corroborated using Census and CPS data matched with Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) job task measures; employment in and earnings premia to occupations requiring high levels of both cognitive and social skill grew substantially compared with occupations that require only one or neither type of skill, and this emerging feature of the labor market has persisted into the new millennium.
A New Sahidic Fragment of the Gospel of Luke from the Michigan Collection
Authors: Jones Brice C.
Published: March 2014

Abstract

This article publishes for the first time the extant remains of a Sahidic Coptic manuscript containing portions of Luke 17-19. Almost all of the special Lukan pericope concerning Jesus and Zacchaeus is preserved (19:1-10), as well as most of the parable of the Dishonest Judge (18:1-8). The edition includes a transcription, translation, palaeographical analysis, critical apparatus, as well as images of the fragment.
Hapax Legomena and the Idiolect of John
Authors: Mardaga Hellen
Published: March 2014

Abstract

The present contribution treats hapax legomena in the Fourth Gospel. The author presents three important findings. First, John has few hapaxes in his gospel (84) and only five hapaxes are unique (i.e. these words are mainly used after the composition of the Fourth Gospel). Second, the presence of hapaxes could be an indicator of orality and memory. Third, in several instances John uses hapaxes in conjunction with repetitions in two ways: 1) In John 2:14-16; 12:14; 18:3; 19:39-40 a hapax is followed by a (more) common word that belongs to the same semantic domain as the hapax. The common word repeats and clarifies the meaning of the hapax to the audience; 2) In John 4:7, 11, 15, 20-24; 9:1-2, 6, 8; 11:11-13; 13:5 a hapax is created by means of a stem-related word. The alteration between repetition and hapaxes helps the audience to focus on the narrative and follow the line of thought.
Beyond Moa’s Ark and Wallace’s Line: extralimital distribution of new species of Austronothrus (Acari, Oribatida, Crotoniidae) and the endemicity of the New Zealand oribatid mite fauna
Authors: COLLOFF MATTHEW J. , CAMERON STEPHEN L.
Published: March 2014

The genus Austronothrus was previously known from three species recorded only from New Zealand. Austronothrus kinabalu sp. nov. is described from Sabah, Borneo and A. rostralis sp. nov. from Norfolk Island, south-west Pacific. A key to Austronothrus is included. These new species extend the distribution of Austronothrus beyond New Zealand and confirms that the subfamily Crotoniinae is not confined to former Gondwanan landmasses. The distribution pattern of Austronothrus spp., combining Oriental and Gondwanan localities, is indicative of a curved, linear track; consistent with the accretion of island arcs and volcanic terranes around the plate margins of the Pacific Ocean, with older taxa persisting on younger island though localised dispersal within island arc metapopulations. Phylogenetic analysis and an area cladogram are consistent with a broad ancestral distribution of Austronothrus in the Oriental region and on Gondwanan terranes, with subsequent divergence and distribution southward from the Sunda region to New Zealand. This pattern is more complex than might be expected if the New Zealand oribatid fauna was derived from dispersal following re-emergence of land after inundation during the Oligocene (25 mya), as well as if the fauna emanated from endemic, relictual taxa following separation of New Zealand from Gondwana during the Cretaceous (80 mya).
Convection over Tropical Africa and the East Atlantic during the West African Monsoon: Regional and Diurnal Variability
Authors: Janiga Matthew A. , Thorncroft Chris D.
Published: March 2014

The geographic and diurnal variability of moist convection over tropical Africa and the east Atlantic is examined using the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite and related to the variability of the convective environment. The stratiform rain fraction is highest within oceanic and continental regions just north of the equator. Both regions have high column relative humidity (CRH). In both monsoon and semiarid continental regions, stratiform rain fractions are significantly higher on days when the CRH is high, which suggests a relationship between these quantities. Large convective systems with high echo tops dominate the rainfall over the Sahel. The importance of CAPE and shear to the development of these types of systems is suggested by the fact these systems are especially common on days when the CAPE and shear are unusually high.

Both deep convective and stratiform conditional rain rates increase with the size and echo-top height of convective systems. According to the TRMM Precipitation Radar (PR) near-surface rain rate, the highest deep convective and stratiform conditional rain rates occur off the coast of West Africa. However, comparisons between the PR near-surface rain rate and rain rates computed from Z–R relationships from the literature suggest that deep convective conditional rain rates over the Sahel are underestimated by the TRMM precipitation algorithm. Over the Sahel, small (large) convective systems produce most of the rainfall in the afternoon (early morning). This is associated with enhanced convective rainfall in the afternoon and stratiform in the early morning. The transition from small to large convective systems as convection propagates away from topographic features is also observed.
Going home: Social work across and about borders
Authors: Wehbi Samantha , Parada Henry , George Purnima , Lessa Iara
Published: March 2014

This article explores the idea of returning home to the South to practise social work. Through our experiences as members of diasporic communities living in the North, we examine how we are implicated in the tensions that surround social work practice and research as efforts to internationalize continue to grow. Specifically, we explore the following themes: the neo-managerial underpinnings of the internationalization of social work; neocolonialism embedded in occupying the role of the reluctant expert; and what we carry with us to help us negotiate the tensions that we experience in navigating our practices across borders.
The Drugs–Violence Nexus
Authors: Seffrin Patrick M. , Domahidi Bianca I.
Published: March 2014

Research on drug use often fails to account for drug dealing in most analyses of violence and other systemic risks associated with illegal drugs. The current study examined whether drug dealing, independent of its connection to drug use, increases involvement with delinquent peers, violence, weapons, and other drug-related conflicts. Data were drawn from the first two waves of the Toledo Adolescent Relationships Study ( N = 1,148). Hierarchical linear models were used to investigate changes in these behaviors that resulted from the respondents’ involvement in drug dealing and drug use. Results indicate that involvement in drug dealing, controlling for drug use, increases violence and other systemic risks to a level that drug use alone is not likely to achieve. Findings also show, however, that drug use among dealers may reduce violence and limit contact with delinquent peers.
A dictator’s toolkit
Authors: Frantz Erica , Kendall-Taylor Andrea
Published: March 2014

A dictator’s motivation for using repression is fairly clear, but why some repress more than others or favor particular types of repressive strategies is less obvious. Using statistical analysis, this article demonstrates that a dictator’s reliance on co-optation fundamentally alters how repression is used. Specifically, it finds that co-optation through the use of political parties and a legislature creates incentives that lead dictators to decrease empowerment rights restrictions, like censorship, while increasing physical integrity rights violations, like torture and political imprisonment. This occurs because, by creating parties and a legislature, a dictator draws his potential opposition out of the general public and into state institutions, making it easier to identify who these opponents are, to monitor their activities, and to gauge the extent of their popular support. This reduces the need to impose broad types of repressive measures, like empowerment rights restrictions, that breed discontent within the overall population. At the same time, co-optation creates the risk that rivals, once co-opted, will use their positions within the system to build their own bases of support from which to seek the dictator’s overthrow, generating incentives for dictators to increase physical integrity violations to limit the threat posed by these individuals.
Operationalizing burnout in the Maslach Burnout Inventory–Student Survey: personal efficacy versus personal inefficacy
Authors: Morgan Brandon , de Bruin Gideon P , de Bruin Karina
Published: March 2014

Burnout is conceptualized and measured as a three-dimensional construct consisting of emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and personal efficacy. Research suggests that the personal efficacy scale be replaced by a personal inefficacy scale. The purpose of this study was to explore (a) differences in the general factor saturation of the Maslach Burnout Inventory–Student Survey when efficacy or inefficacy items are included, (b) the strength of the correlations of the efficacy versus inefficacy scales with emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, and (c) the reliabilities of the different subscales. Two unrestricted maximum likelihood item factor analyses with bifactor rotations were conducted on data collected from 522 South African university students. The results indicate that the inefficacy scale loads more strongly on a general burnout factor than does the efficacy scale, the inefficacy scale correlates more strongly with the exhaustion and cynicism scales, and the inefficacy scale is more reliable than the efficacy scale. Jointly this implies that the inefficacy scale, rather than the efficacy scale, should be used in the measurement of burnout.