bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clear Cell Sarcoma-Like Tumor of the Gastrointestinal Tract, Presenting as a Second Malignancy after Childhood Hepatoblastoma
Authors: Thway Khin , Judson Ian , Fisher Cyril
Published: February 2014

Clear cell sarcoma-like tumor of the gastrointestinal tract (CCSLGT) is a rare malignant neoplasm arising within the wall of the small bowel, stomach, or large bowel, predominantly in children and young adults. It is an aggressive tumor with a high rate of local recurrence, metastases, and early death from disease. Histologically, it is composed of relatively monomorphic ovoid or round cells with clear to eosinophilic cytoplasm, arranged in sheets and sometimes papillary or alveolar architectures, often with CD68-positive osteoclast-like giant cells in variable numbers, and is associated withEWSR1-CREB1gene fusions. Its pathogenesis is unknown, and histologically it can be easily confused with a variety of intra-abdominal neoplasms. We describe a case of CCSLGT with molecular characterization, presenting as an acutely obstructing small bowel mass in a 33-year-old male, which occurred as a second malignant neoplasm 20 years after treatment with surgery, radiotherapy, and cisplatin and doxorubicin chemotherapy for childhood hepatoblastoma. This gives further insight into the clinical setting of this highly aggressive neoplasm and highlights the use of radiation therapy as a possible etiologic factor.
Structural System Identification with Extended Kalman Filter and Orthogonal Decomposition of Excitation
Authors: Ding Y. , Zhao B. Y. , Wu B.
Published: February 2014

Both the structural parameter and external excitation have coupling influence on structural response. A new system identification method in time domain is proposed to simultaneously evaluate structural parameter and external excitation. The method can be used for linear and hysteresis nonlinear structural condition assessment based on incomplete structural responses. In this method, the structural excitation is decomposed by orthogonal approximation. With this approximation, the strongly time‐variant excitation identification is transformed to gentle time‐variant, even constant parameters identification. Then the extended Kalman filter is applied to simultaneously identify state vector including the structural parameters and excitation orthogonal parameters in state space based on incomplete measurements. The proposed method is validated numerically with the simulation of three‐story linear and nonlinear structures subject to external force. The external force on the top floor and the structural parameters are simultaneously identified with the proposed system identification method. Results from both simulations indicate that the proposed method is capable of identifing the dynamic load and structural parameters fairly accurately with contaminated incomplete measurement for both of the linear and nonlinear structural systems.
New Strategies for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer—Deciphering the Heterogeneity
Authors: Mayer Ingrid A. , Abramson Vandana G. , Lehmann Brian D. , Pietenpol Jennifer A.
Published: February 2014

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease; gene expression analyses recently identified six distinct TNBC subtypes, each displaying a unique biology. Exploring novel approaches to treatment of these subtypes is critical because less than 30% of women with metastatic breast cancer survive five years and virtually all women with metastatic TNBC will ultimately die of their disease despite systemic therapy. To date, not a single targeted therapy has been approved for the treatment of TNBC and cytotoxic chemotherapy remains the standard treatment. We discuss the current and upcoming therapeutic strategies being explored in an attempt to “target” TNBC. Clin Cancer Res; 20(4); 782–90. ©2014 AACR.
HLA-G Expression as a Prognostic Indicator in B-Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Attia Mohamed A. , Nosair Nahla A. , Gawally Amro , Elnagar Gamal , Elshafey Eid M.
Published: February 2014

Background: The expression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G was studied in certain malignancies and its role in escaping from immunosurveillance in cancers was proposed since HLA-G is a non-conventional HLA class I molecule that protects the fetus from immunorecognition during pregnancy. Some particles involved in the regulation of an immune system might represent prognostic value for B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). The identification of novel prognostic factors in B-CLL may help define patient subgroups that may benefit from early therapeutic intervention. Objective: To evaluate the prognostic significance of HLA-G expression in B-CLL patients and its relationship with other well-established prognostic markers. Methodology: Thirty B-CLL patients diagnosed by clinical, morphological and immunophenotyping criteria were studied for HLA-G expression by flow cytometry. The relationship between HLA-G expression and some known prognostic markers was evaluated. Results: HLA-G was expressed in 36.7% of CLL patients at diagnosis, with a mean expression level of 35.31 ± 12.35%. A significant association between HLA-G expression and common prognostic markers of progressive disease was detected. The group of patients with positive HLA-G expression showed significantly higher absolute lymphocyte counts and serum levels of LDH and β2-microglobulin, lower platelet counts, positive CD38 expression and advanced stages of Binet clinical staging. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that HLA-G expression correlates with prognostic markers of a poor B-CLL outcome, mainly Binet clinical staging and CD38 expression by B-CLL cells, which indicates that this parameter may play a role as an important prognosticator of disease progression and consequently targeted therapy in B-CLL.
A Rare Case of Asherman's Syndrome after Open Myomectomy: Sonographic Investigations and Possible Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Papoutsis Dimitrios , Georgantzis Dimitrios , Daccò Maria Diletta , Halmos Gabor , Moustafa Mohsen , Mesquita Pinto Ana Rita , Magos Adam
Published: February 2014

Aims: To present a study on severe Asherman's syndrome after open myomectomy and investigate the possible reasons for this outcome. Methods: This study involves a rare case of a 38-year-old nulliparous woman who underwent a relatively minor and straightforward open myomectomy in a university hospital setting, during which the uterine cavity was not entered and there were no post-operative complications. Post-operatively the patient had oligomenorrhoea for over a year. The patient was investigated with three-dimensional power Doppler angiography of the uterus and underwent diagnostic/operative hysteroscopy. Main outcome measures were to sonographically assess the blood flow and vascularisation throughout the uterus and to hysteroscopically confirm diagnosis of Asherman's syndrome and treat the patient at the same time. Results: Sonographically there was reduced perfusion in the outer part of the uterus and the scarred areas of the endometrium. Upon hysteroscopic confirmation of diagnosis, the division of adhesions led to a normal sized uterine cavity. Conclusions: Among the predisposing and causal factors that have been implicated in post-operative adhesion formation, endometrial trauma, infection and tissue hypoxia are considered the most important. This case supports a role for tissue hypoxia in the development of Asherman's syndrome after open myomectomy.
Can Alcohol Dependent Patients Adhere to an ‘As-Needed' Medication Regimen?
Authors: Sinclair Julia , Chick Jonathan , Sørensen Per , Kiefer Falk , Batel Philippe , Gual Antoni
Published: February 2014

A pooled analysis of ‘as-needed medication use' data from 1,276 patients in two randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trials of nalmefene in the treatment of alcohol dependence was performed to explore whether an ‘as-needed' regimen is an acceptable and feasible strategy in patients seeking help for alcohol dependence. Adherence was defined as alcohol consumption and medication intake, or no alcohol consumption (with or without medication intake). Nalmefene was taken on approximately half of the study days; placebo was taken more often than nalmefene (52.8 vs. 64.5% of days, respectively). In each treatment group medication intake appeared to vary according to patients' needs in that intake correlated with the baseline drinking pattern. Sixty-eight percent of the nalmefene-treated patients (78% of the study completers) adhered to the as-needed treatment regimen on at least 80% of the study days. In conclusion, as-needed use is a feasible, patient-centred approach that engages patients with alcohol dependence in the active management of their illness.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Ezetimibe by Regulating NF-κB/MAPK Pathway in THP-1 Macrophages
Authors: Qin Li , Yang Yun-Bo , Yang Yi-Xin , Zhu Neng , Li Shun-Xiang , Liao Duan-Fang , Zheng Xi-Long
Published: February 2014

Inflammation plays a crucial role in atherosclerosis. Monocytes/macrophages are involved in the inflammatory process during atherogenesis. Here, we performed daily gavage of ezetimibe in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice fed with a high-fat diet and found that ezetimibe administration decreased the level of C-reactive protein significantly. To investigate the potential molecular mechanism, we employed microarray analysis on the cultured macrophages treated with Chol:MßCD in the presence or absence of ezetimibe. We found that ezetimibe dramatically down-regulated the expression of the tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) gene. Consistent with the microarray results, TNF-a protein levels were inhibited by ezetimibe. Moreover, ezetimibe suppressed the promoter activity of TNF-a but not TNF-a lacking the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) binding domain in THP-1 cells treated with phorbol myristate acetate and Chol:MßCD. Furthermore, treatment of THP-1 macrophages with ezetimibe resulted in the degradation of IκB and subsequently inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-κB and its transcriptional activity. Inhibition of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway using PD98059 attenuated the reduction effect of ezetimibe on the expression of NF-κB. Collectively, our results demonstrated that the anti-inflammatory properties of ezetimibe in THP-1 macrophages are, at least in part, through suppression of NF-κB activation via the MAPK pathway. These data provide direct evidence for the potential application of ezetimibe in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory diseases.
Donor Hemovigilance during Preparatory Plasmapheresis
Authors: Diekamp Ulrich , Gneißl Johannes , Rabe Angela , Kießig Stephan T.
Published: February 2014

Background: Reports on unexpected donor events (UEs) during preparatory plasmapheresis (PPP) are scarce, and rarely consider technical UEs. Methods: Defined local and systemic UEs were graded by severity; technical UEs were not graded. On January 1, 2008, E.B.P.S.-Logistics (EBPS) installed the UE module for plasma management software (PMS). Donor room physicians entered UEs daily into the PMS. Medical directors reviewed entries quarterly. EBPS compiled data on donors, donations and UEs from January 1, 2008 to June 30, 2011. Results: 66,822 UEs were observed during 1,107,846 PPPs for a corrected incidence of 6.55% (1.4% local, 0.55% systemic, 4.6% technical UEs). 3.36% of PPPs were accompanied by 1 UE and 1.18% by >1 UE (2-5). 13.7% of donors undergoing PPP for the first time, 9.7% of those having a second PPP and 4.0% of those having a third or more PPPs were associated with UEs. Most common UEs were repeated venipuncture, and broken-off collection due to venous access problems and small hematomas. Severe systemic UEs occurred at a rate of 36 per 100,000 PPPs. Conclusions: Technical UEs were common with PPP. UEs accompanied first and second donations significantly more frequently than for subsequent donations.
Red Blood Cell Storage Duration Is Associated with Various Clinical Outcomes in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Redlin Matthias , Habazettl Helmut , Schoenfeld Helge , Kukucka Marian , Boettcher Wolfgang , Kuppe Hermann , Salama Abdulgabar
Published: February 2014

Background: Recommendations on the use of fresh red blood cells (RBCs) in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery are based on limited information. Furthermore, the RBC storage time cut-off of fresh units remains unknown. Methods: Data from 139 pediatric patients who underwent cardiac surgery and received RBCs from a single unit within 14 days of storage were analyzed. To identify the optimal cut-off storage time of RBCs for transfusion, multiple multivariate analyses aimed at different outcome parameters were performed. Results: 26 patients received RBC units stored for ≤3 days, while 126 patients received RBCs that were stored for 4-14 days. The latter group required more RBC transfusions and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) than the former group (19 vs. 25 ml/kg, p = 0.003 and 73% vs. 35%, p = 0.0006, respectively). In addition, the odds for the administration of FFP increased with the transfusion of RBCs stored for more than 4 days. The optimal cut-off for post-operative morbidity was observed with a storage time of ≤6 days for length of ventilation (p = 0.02) and peak of C-reactive protein (CRP; p = 0.008). Conclusions: The obtained results indicate that the hazard of blood transfusion increased with increasing storage time of RBCs. The results of this study suggest that transfusion of fresh RBCs with a storage time of ≤2 or 4 days (concerning transfusion requirements) or ≤6 days (concerning postoperative morbidity) may be beneficial in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery. However, further prospective randomized studies are required in order to draw any final conclusions.
Observational Study of Surveillance Based on the Combination of Online Dialysance and Thermodilution Methods in Hemodialysis Patients with Arteriovenous Fistulas
Authors: Fontseré Néstor , Mestres Gaspar , Burrel Marta , Barrufet Marta , Montaña Xavier , Arias Marta , Ojeda Raquel , Maduell Francisco , Campistol Josep M.
Published: February 2014

Background/Aims: Online dialysance (Kt) and thermodilution (BTM-Qa) methods could be important components in vascular access monitoring programs. This study evaluated the efficiency of these two methods in reducing the thrombosis rate and access-related costs compared with a historic control group. Methods: We studied 148 hemodialysis patients with arteriovenous fistulas (control group, n = 74) for 2 years. During the study period, the indications for vascular treatments were the Kt reduction ≥20% with respect to baseline values or Qa <500 ml/min (or a decrease in flow >20%). Results: During the study period, we detected 16 cases of vascular dysfunction. The Kt value after vascular treatment was 71.1 liters (59 liters; p = 0.001) and BTM-Qa was 1,218.6 ml/min (519.7 ml/min; p = 0.001). Compared with the control group, the thrombosis rate was 0.027 versus 0.148 episodes/patient-year (p = 0.009) and the total access-related cost was EUR 22,293 versus 47,467 (p = 0.033). Conclusions: This study suggests that a combined monitoring program based on Kt and BTM-Qa represents an effective screening method that significantly reduces the thrombosis rate and economic costs of vascular treatments.
Effect of Exposure to Acute and Chronic High-Altitude Hypoxia on the Activity and Expression of CYP1A2, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and NAT2 in Rats
Authors: Li Xiangyang , Wang Xuejun , Li Yongping , Yuan Ming , Zhu Junbo , Su Xiaodong , Yao Xingchen , Fan Xueru , Duan Yabin
Published: February 2014

We investigated the effect of exposure to acute and chronic high-altitude hypoxia (AHH and CHH) on the activity and expression of CYP1A2, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and NAT2 in rats. The rats were divided into plain (400 m), acute middle-altitude hypoxia (2,800 m), chronic middle-altitude hypoxia (2,800 m), AHH (4,300 m) and CHH (4,300 m). After probe drugs had been orally administered to the rats of the 5 groups, the serum or urine concentration of the probe drug and its metabolite was determined by reversed-phase HPLC. The activity of cytochrome P450 isozyme and NAT2 was evaluated by the ratio of the metabolite to the probe drug. The ELISA and real-time PCR were used to analyze the protein and mRNA expression of cytochrome P450 isozyme and NAT2, respectively. AHH and CHH caused significant decreases in the activity and protein and mRNA expression of rat CYP1A2 in vivo. AHH downregulates the activity and mRNA expression of rat NAT2 in vivo, and CHH upregulates the activity and protein and mRNA expression of rat CYP2D6. AHH and CHH did not change the expression of CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 in rats. This study found significant changes in the activity and protein and mRNA expression of CYP1A2, CYP2D6 and NAT2 in rats in the special environment of high-altitude hypoxia.
Perceptions of Benefit of Complementary Therapy Use among People with Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Canaway Rachel , Manderson Lenore , Oldenburg Brian
Published: February 2014

Background: Little is known about why and how people with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) use CAM, or of the perceived benefits of CAM use. The CAMELOT study explored care-seeking, self-management, costs, barriers and benefits of CAM use among this population. We report here on CAM used for treatment of diabetes and CVD, and non-clinical outcomes of CAM use. Methods: Data were collected in 2009-2010 via in-depth interviews (n = 69) and a self-report questionnaire (n = 2,915) among people with diabetes and/or CVD, throughout an Australian state. Analysis included contingency tables, chi-square analysis and thematic coding of interview and long answer survey data. Results: CAM use was generally part of a multi-component approach to chronic condition management. Choice of CAM practitioners and products varied and included CAM not usually associated with diabetes or CVD treatment, such as massage or manipulative therapies (44%). Most survey respondents perceived that CAM consultations resulted in symptom relief, improved general health and increased knowledge, understanding and confidence in condition management. Few people reported that they experienced any side effects from CAM. Economic barriers were significant in limiting access to CAM. Conclusion: More research is required to understand how the appropriate use and perceived benefits of CAM can be reinforced by stronger interaction or integration with mainstream health service delivery for chronic condition management and illness prevention.
Clinical Effects of Needle-Pricking Therapy on Peripheral Facial Paralysis
Authors: Kwon You-Jung , Lee Seunghoon , Park Sangmin , Lee Ungin , Lim Sung-Keun , Nam Dongwoo , Lee Sanghoon
Published: February 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of needle-pricking therapy on peripheral facial paralysis. Methods: This study included 162 patients with peripheral facial paralysis, 107 of whom were treated with usual care (conventional and alternative treatments) and 55 of whom were additionally treated with needle-pricking therapy on 3 specific extra-meridian acupuncture points known as ‘Samjoong' (Sānchóng in Chinese). We evaluated changes in facial motor functions and sequelae using the Yanagihara and gross House-Brackmann grading systems before and after treatments. Results: Yanagihara score and House-Brackmann grade significantly improved after treatments in both groups. However, the needle-pricking therapy group showed greater improvements in Yanagihara score and House-Brackmann grade than the usual care group. Conclusion: Our results suggest that Samjoong needle-pricking therapy could be applied as an adjunct therapy to usual care for patients with peripheral facial paralysis.
Psychometrische Verfahren in der Psychotherapie
Authors: Stieglitz Rolf-Dieter
Published: February 2014

Psychotherapie als zielgerichteter Prozess beinhaltet die Notwendigkeit der Überprüfung der Zielerreichung, wozu in den letzten Jahrzehnten vielfältige Entwicklungen erkennbar sind. Die Entwicklung psychometrischer Verfahren allgemein wie speziell für einzelne Störungsgruppen ist hier zu nennen. Instrumente können in verschiedenen Phasen der Therapie in Abhängigkeit von den jeweiligen Assessmentzielen zur Anwendung kommen. Sie dienen vor allem der Kontrolle des Therapieverlaufs und des Therapieerfolgs. Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick zu Instrumenten und ihren Anwendungsmöglichkeiten und weist auf bestehende Defizite hin.
Clinical Presentation of a Patient with Congenital Cutis Laxa and Abnormal Thyroid Hormone Levels
Authors: Ma Yan , Zhang Jin-yu , Wang Chen , Cen Wen , Liu Xin , Feng Wen-li
Published: February 2014

We describe a case of generalized cutis laxa (CL) in a 7-year-old female child. At 2 months of age, she was found to have a hoarse voice, and at 3 years, she was much smaller than her peers. Her aging face and short stature caught our attention, and the treatment of the patient was accepted by our hospital. She underwent a thorough examination. X-ray of the wrist bone showed a markedly delayed bone age, and thyroid function tests revealed significantly elevated free triiodothyronine 3 and free thyroxine 4 levels, but thyrotropin was within the normal range. Thyroid dysfunction and CL can be associated with lagged growth and development. Whether her abnormal development was due to thyroid dysfunction or CL could not be ascertained. CL is possibly more complex than it has been supposed so far, and is therefore worth to be further studied.
Remission of an Intracardiac Melanoma Metastasis after Tremelimumab Therapy
Authors: Spethmann Sebastian , Trefzer Uwe , Knebel Fabian
Published: February 2014

Tremelimumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody specific for human cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4. Administration of tremelimumab to patients with locally advanced and metastatic melanoma has resulted in a subset of patients with durable objective tumour regressions. Our echocardiographic images impressively show the effects of this new antibody in a patient with cardiac metastatic malignant melanoma.
Perforated Sigmoid Diverticulitis in the Presence of Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Authors: Heye P. , Descloux A. , Singer G. , Rosenberg R. , Kocher T.
Published: February 2014

Even though the incidence of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is low, it is also associated with a high mortality rate. The condition predominantly affects the skin, but may also affect the gastrointestinal tract, dramatically increasing mortality. We present a case of perforated sigmoid diverticulitis in the presence of TEN. The patient was taking medication, known to be a risk factor, and presented an affected total body surface area and temporal development similar to previously reported cases of TEN. Characteristic abdominal symptoms, however, were missing. Gastrointestinal involvement in TEN appears to be a poor prognostic factor; medical staff must therefore be alert to patients with TEN who complain of abdominal discomfort. The exact pathogenesis, however, remains unclear.
The Black-tailed Antechinus, Antechinus arktos sp. nov.: a new species of carnivorous marsupial from montane regions of the Tweed Volcano caldera, eastern Australia
Authors: Baker ANDREW M , Mutton THOMAS Y , Hines Harry B , DYCK STEVE VAN
Published: February 2014

We describe a new species of dasyurid marsupial within the genus Antechinus that was previously known as a northern outlier of Dusky Antechinus (A. swainsonii). The Black-tailed Antechinus, Antechinus arktos sp. nov., is known only from areas of high altitude and high rainfall on the Tweed Volcano caldera of far south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales, Australia. Antechinus arktos formerly sheltered under the taxonomic umbrella of A. swainsonii mimetes, the widespread mainland form of Dusky Antechinus. With the benefit of genetic hindsight, some striking morphological differences are herein resolved: A. s. mimetes is more uniformly deep brown-black to grizzled grey-brown from head to rump, with brownish (clove brown—raw umber) hair on the upper surface of the hindfoot and tail, whereas A. arktos is more vibrantly coloured, with a marked change from greyish-brown head to orange-brown rump, fuscous black on the upper surface of the hindfoot and dense, short fur on the evenly black tail. Further, A. arktos has marked orange-brown fur on the upper and lower eyelid, cheek and in front of the ear and very long guard hairs all over the body; these characters are more subtle in A. s. mimetes. There are striking genetic differences between the two species: at mtDNA, A. s. mimetes from north-east New South Wales is 10% divergent to A. arktos from its type locality at Springbrook NP, Queensland. In contrast, the Ebor A. s. mimetes clades closely with conspecifics from ACT and Victoria. A. arktos skulls are strikingly different to all subspecies of A. swainsonii. A. arktos are markedly larger than A. s. mimetes and A. s. swainsonii (Tasmania) for a range of craniodental measures. Antechinus arktos were historically found at a few proximate mountainous sites in south-east Queensland, and have only recently been recorded from or near the type locality. Even there, the species is likely in low abundance. The Black-tailed Antechinus has plausibly been detrimentally affected by climate change in recent decades, and will be at further risk with increasing warming trends.
Palaearctic Hoplitis bees of the subgenera Chlidoplitis and Megahoplitis (Megachilidae, Osmiini): biology, taxonomy and key to species
Authors: Müller Andreas
Published: February 2014

Chlidoplitis and Megahoplitis are closely related Palaearctic subgenera of the osmiine bee genus Hoplitis (Megachilidae) containing nine and two species, respectively. Analysis of female pollen loads and field observations suggest that all species are pollen specialists. Whereas the H. (Chlidoplitis) species are probably all narrowly oligolectic and exclusively collect pollen on Allium (Alliaceae), Haplophyllum (Rutaceae), Reseda (Resedaceae), Teucrium (Lamiaceae), Trifolium (Fabaceae) or Hedysareae (Fabaceae), the H. (Megahoplitis) species show a close affinity to Carduoideae (Asteraceae) as pollen hosts. The few data available suggest that the H. (Chlidoplitis) species nest in preexisting insect burrows in the ground and use either chewed leaves or mud as nesting material. The nesting biology of the subgenus Megahoplitis remains unknown. The taxonomic revision of the subgenera Chlidoplitis and Megahoplitis revealed the existence of two undescribed species: H. (Chlidoplitis) haplophylli spec. nov. from southeastern Central Asia and Hoplitis (Chlidoplitis) allii spec. nov. from the Levant. Identification keys for the species of both subgenera are given including the hitherto unknown male of H. (Megahoplitis) bombiformis.
Two new quill mite species of the family Syringophilidae (Acari: Prostigmata) parasitising the house sparrow Passer domesticus (L.) (Aves: Passeriformes)
Authors: SKORACKI MACIEJ , SIKORA BOZENA
Published: February 2014

Two new quill mite species of the family Syringophilidae, Picobia passeri sp. nov. and Krantziaulonastus dubinini sp. nov., are described from quills of the body feathers of the house sparrow Passer domesticus (L.) (Passeriformes: Passeridae) from the European part of Russia.
Branding Atrocity: Narrating Dark Sides and Managing Organizational Image
Authors: Muhr Sara Louise , Rehn Alf
Published: February 2014

Research on the dark side of organizations has usually focused on atrocities committed by organizations or specific persons within them. Less attention has been paid to how organizations can utilize atrocities they had no part in creating. In this article, the manner in which atrocities can be utilized, managed and narrated in corporate image-work is discussed through two empirical illustrations: The Body Shop’s campaign against trafficking, and a campaign by a social movement organization to curb violence towards women in Congo. The article argues that analyzing differences in how organizations choose and position external atrocities in their branding can benefit our understanding of both organizational image-work and the dark side of organization.
Diesel Exhaust Particle-Induced Airway Responses are Augmented in Obese Rats
Authors: Moon Kuk-Young , Park Moo-Kyun , Leikauf George D. , Park Choon-Sik , Jang An-Soo
Published: February 2014

Air pollutants and obesity are important factors that contribute to asthma. The aim of this study was to assess the airway responsiveness and inflammation in Otsuka-Long Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) obese rats and Long Evans Tokushima-Otsuka (LETO) nonobese rats exposed to diesel exhaust particles (DEPs). Otsuka Long Evans Tokushima fatty rats and LETO rats were exposed intranasally to DEP and then challenged with aerosolized DEP on days 6 to 8. Body plethysmography, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and histology were performed. Enhanced pause (Penh) was measured as an indicator of airway resistance on day 9 and samples were collected on day 10. After exposure to DEP, the OLETF group exhibited a greater increase in Penh compared to that in the LETO group. Moreover, the BAL fluid in mice showed an increase in the total and differential cell counts in the DEP-exposed OLETF group compared to that in the DEP-exposed LETO group. Histological assessment of lung tissue from each group revealed that the DEP-exposed OLETF group tended to have increased inflammatory cell infiltrations in the prebronchial area. Increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, coactivator 1β messenger RNA was observed in the lungs of obese rats compared to that in nonobese rats following DEP exposure. These data indicate that the DEP-exposed OLETF group had increased airway responses and inflammation compared to the DEP-exposed LETO group, indicating that diesel particulates and obesity may be co-contributors to asthma.
Extending Theory on Job Stress
Authors: Sur Sujit , Ng Eddy S.
Published: February 2014

This article proposes that the variation in perceived job stress by individuals is explained by the interaction between the situational “Other 3” dimensions (locus of control, self-monitoring, and self-efficacy) and the “Big 5” personality traits. Situational stressors primarily impact the “Other 3” dimensions in the general model. The “Other 3” dimensions mediate the stressor–job stress relationship, while the “Big 5” dimensions moderate the “Other 3”–job stress relationship. In the sequential process model, the “Other 3” dimensions and job stress are cross-lagged related to define subsequent variations in the “Other 3” dimensions of personality and job stress. This perspective is consistent with the interactional perspective, wherein personality mediates the relationship of the individual with the environment. We offer several research propositions and conclude with implications for research and practice.
The Berry-Esséen bound of sample quantiles for NA sequence
Authors: Liu Tingting , Zhang Zhimian , Hu Shuhe , Yang Wenzhi
Published: February 2014

By using the exponential inequality, we investigate the Berry-Esséen bound of sample quantiles for negatively associated (NA) random variables and obtain the rate

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Effect of statins on cardiovascular events in patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Xiang Chun , Zhou Yu-Hao , Jiang An , Qin Ying-Yi , He Jia
Published: February 2014

Background

Statins are commonly used to lower total cholesterol levels in the general population to prevent cardiovascular events. However, the effects of statins in patients with chronic kidney disease remain unclear. We therefore performed a meta-analysis to assess the effects of statin therapy on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, EmBase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, proceedings of major meetings, and reference lists of articles for relevant literature. Only randomized clinical trials were included. Outcomes analysed included cardiovascular disease, total mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiovascular death, and possible drug-related adverse events. Subgroup analyses were also performed based on the population characteristics and clinical indexes.

Results

Twelve trials met our inclusion criteria. Overall, statin therapy resulted in a 24% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease (RR = 0.76,95% confidence interval [CI], 0.72– 0.80), a 21% reduction in the risk of total mortality (RR = 0.79,95% CI, 0.72–0.86), a 34% reduction in the risk of myocardial infarction (RR = 0.66,95% CI, 0.52–0.83), a 30% reduction in the risk of stroke (RR = 0.70,95% CI, 0.57–0.85), and a 17% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular mortality (RR = 0.83,95% CI, 0.73– 0.93). No statistically significant drug-related adverse events were noted. Subgroup analysis indicated that some important factors such as baseline creatinine level ≥1.5 mg/dL, baseline glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and cardiovascular disease history could affect cardiovascular outcomes.

Conclusion

Statin therapy had a clear effect on cardiovascular disease, total mortality, stroke, and myocardial infarction in patients with mild to moderate renal disease. Subgroup analysis indicated that baseline GFR, baseline creatinine level, and a history of cardiovascular disease might play an important role in the cardiovascular outcomes.
Decreased GATA5 mRNA expression associates with CpG island methylation and shortened recurrence-free survival in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Peters Inga , Dubrowinskaja Natalia , Kogosov Michael , Abbas Mahmoud , Hennenlotter Jörg , von Klot Christoph , Merseburger Axel S , Stenzl Arnulf , Scherer Ralph , Kuczyk Markus A , Serth Jürgen
Published: February 2014

Background

GATA-5, a zinc-finger transcription factor and member of the GATA family proteins 1–6, is known to be involved in cellular differentiation. We recently found that tumor-specific hypermethylation of the GATA5 CpG island (CGI) occurs in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and is associated with an adverse clinical outcome. In this study, we investigated whether epigenetic GATA5 alterations may result in changes in GATA5 mRNA expression levels and correlate with the observed prognostic impact of epigenetic changes in GATA5 in RCC.

Methods

Quantitative real-time reverse-transcribed polymerase chain reaction was applied to measure relative GATA5 mRNA expression levels in 135 kidney tissue samples, including 77 clear cell RCC (ccRCC) tissues and 58 paired adjacent normal renal tissue samples. Relative GATA5 expression levels were determined using the ΔΔCt method and detection of three endogenous control genes then compared to previously measured values of relative methylation.

Results

The mean relative GATA5 mRNA expression level exhibited an approximately 31-fold reduction in tumor specimens compared with corresponding normal tissues (p < 0.001, paired t-test). Decreased GATA5 mRNA expression was inversely correlated with increased GATA5 CGI methylation (p < 0.001) and was associated with shortened recurrence-free survival in ccRCC patients (p = 0.023, hazard ratio = 0.25).

Conclusion

GATA5 mRNA expression is decreased in ccRCC, likely due to gene silencing by methylation of the GATA5 CGI. Moreover, reduced GATA5 mRNA levels were associated with a poor clinical outcome, indicating a possible role of GATA5 for the development of aggressive ccRCC phenotypes.
Family planning practice and predictors of risk of inconsistent condom use among HIV-positive women on anti-retroviral therapy in Cambodia
Authors: Nakaie Naomi , Tuon Sovanna , Nozaki Ikuma , Yamaguchi Fuzuki , Sasaki Yuri , Kakimoto Kazuhiro
Published: February 2014

Background

In Cambodia, while anti-retroviral therapy (ART) services are increasingly available, the unmet needs of family planning among general population are high. These facts raise concern on possible exposure of many HIV-positive women on ART to the potential risk of unintended pregnancy. This study aimed to clarify family planning practices in Cambodia and determine predictors of risk of inconsistent condom use among women on ART.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey with a structured questionnaire was conducted at five government-run health centers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from June to September, 2012. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of risk of inconsistent condom use among regular users of contraceptive methods.

Results

Of 408 respondents, 40, 17 and 10 used the pill, IUD, and injection, respectively, while 193 used condoms. 374 were not planning to have a child. Among 238 sexually active women who were not planning to have a baby, 59 were exposed to the risk of unintended pregnancy. Multivariate logistic regression analysis that did not include variables related to partners identified "seeking family planning information" (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.6, 95% confidence intervals (95% CI): 1.1-6.2), awareness of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) (AOR: 4.7, 95% CI: 1.9-11.6) and "having a son" (AOR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.1-3.9) were significant predictors of inconsistent condom use. Another model that included all variables identified “able to ask a partner to use condom at every sexual intercourse” was the only predictor (AOR: 23.7, 95% CI: 5.8-97.6).

Conclusions

About one-quarter of women on ART are at risk to unintended pregnancy although most do not plan to get pregnant. Furthermore, women on ART could be more empowered through improvement of communication and negotiation skills with partners to demand the use of condom during sexual intercourse. The use of other contraceptive methods that do not need partner involvement should be promoted.
Time-resolved photoluminescence studies of annealed 1.3-μm GaInNAsSb quantum wells
Authors: Baranowski Michal , Kudrawiec Robert , Syperek Marcin , Misiewicz Jan , Sarmiento Tomas , Harris James S
Published: February 2014

Time-resolved photoluminescence (PL) was applied to study the dynamics of carrier recombination in GaInNAsSb quantum wells (QWs) emitting near 1.3 μm and annealed at various temperatures. It was observed that the annealing temperature has a strong influence on the PL decay time, and hence, it influences the optical quality of GaInNAsSb QWs. At low temperatures, the PL decay time exhibits energy dependence (i.e., the decay times change for different energies of emitted photons), which can be explained by the presence of localized states. This energy dependence of PL decay times was fitted by a phenomenological formula, and the average value of E
0, which describes the energy distribution of localized states, was extracted from this fit and found to be smallest (E
0 = 6 meV) for the QW annealed at 700°C. In addition, the value of PL decay time at the peak energy was compared for all samples. The longest PL decay time (600 ps) was observed for the sample annealed at 700°C. It means that based on the PL dynamics, the optimal annealing temperature for this QW is approximately 700°C.
Proteomic analysis of human osteoarthritis synovial fluid
Authors: Balakrishnan Lavanya , Nirujogi Raja Sekhar , Ahmad Sartaj , Bhattacharjee Mitali , Manda Srikanth S , Renuse Santosh , Kelkar Dhanashree S , Subbannayya Yashwanth , Raju Rajesh , Goel Renu , Thomas Joji Kurian , Kaur Navjyot , Dhillon Mukesh , Tankala Shantal Gupta , Jois Ramesh , Vasdev Vivek , Ramachandra YL , Sahasrabuddhe Nandini A , Prasad TS Keshava , Mohan Sujatha , Gowda Harsha , Shankar Subramanian , Pandey Akhilesh
Published: February 2014

Background

Osteoarthritis is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder characterized mainly by progressive degradation of the hyaline cartilage. Patients with osteoarthritis often postpone seeking medical help, which results in the diagnosis being made at an advanced stage of cartilage destruction. Sustained efforts are needed to identify specific markers that might help in early diagnosis, monitoring disease progression and in improving therapeutic outcomes. We employed a multipronged proteomic approach, which included multiple fractionation strategies followed by high resolution mass spectrometry analysis to explore the proteome of synovial fluid obtained from osteoarthritis patients. In addition to the total proteome, we also enriched glycoproteins from synovial fluid using lectin affinity chromatography.

Results

We identified 677 proteins from synovial fluid of patients with osteoarthritis of which 545 proteins have not been previously reported. These novel proteins included ADAM-like decysin 1 (ADAMDEC1), alanyl (membrane) aminopeptidase (ANPEP), CD84, fibulin 1 (FBLN1), matrix remodelling associated 5 (MXRA5), secreted phosphoprotein 2 (SPP2) and spondin 2 (SPON2). We identified 300 proteins using lectin affinity chromatography, including the glycoproteins afamin (AFM), attractin (ATRN), fibrillin 1 (FBN1), transferrin (TF), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1) and vasorin (VSN). Gene ontology analysis confirmed that a majority of the identified proteins were extracellular and are mostly involved in cell communication and signaling. We also confirmed the expression of ANPEP, dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor 3 (DKK3) and osteoglycin (OGN) by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) analysis of osteoarthritis synovial fluid samples.

Conclusions

We present an in-depth analysis of the synovial fluid proteome from patients with osteoarthritis. We believe that the catalog of proteins generated in this study will further enhance our knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis and should assist in identifying better biomarkers for early diagnosis.
Streptococcus acidominimus causing invasive disease in humans: a case series
Authors: Wu Chaoneng , Liang Buqing , Gong Yunguo , Zhang Lan , Zou Yunzeng , Ge Junbo
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Streptococcus acidominimus is a member of the viridans group streptococci and is rarely pathogenic in humans, making it difficult to assess its epidemiologic and clinical significance.

Case presentation

We report the cases of five Han Chinese patients with invasive diseases caused by S. acidominimus over a one-year time frame. Three of the patients developed continuous fever after surgery, consisting of a successful elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy (case 1), a laparoscopic esophageal resection and gastroesophageal anastomosis (case 2), and a liver transplant in a patient with liver cancer (case 3). For these three patients, cultures of the purulent drainage material grew S. acidominimus. Case 4 concerns a 52-year-old man who developed sepsis 48 hours after hospitalization for hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatitis-related glomerulonephritis. Case 5 concerns a 55-year-old woman receiving regular hemodialysis who had low-grade fever for one month. For these two patients, blood cultures grew S. acidominimus. An antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that S. acidominimus was resistant to clindamycin and, to some degree, beta-lactam or macrolides. The S. acidominimus from the patient on hemodialysis was resistant to multiple antibiotics.

Conclusion

S. acidominimus is an ever-increasing cause of disease, especially in patients who are critically ill. It is showing increased resistance to antimicrobial agents, so in patients with viridans group streptococci infections, it is necessary to identify the species to improve the clinical management of S. acidominimus.
Replication of linkage at chromosome 20p13 and identification of suggestive sex-differential risk loci for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Werling Donna M , Lowe Jennifer K , Luo Rui , Cantor Rita M , Geschwind Daniel H
Published: February 2014

Background

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are male-biased and genetically heterogeneous. While sequencing of sporadic cases has identifiedde novorisk variants, the heritable genetic contribution and mechanisms driving the male bias are less understood. Here, we aimed to identify familial and sex-differential risk loci in the largest available, uniformly ascertained, densely genotyped sample of multiplex ASD families from the Autism Genetics Resource Exchange (AGRE), and to compare results with earlier findings from AGRE.

Methods

From a total sample of 1,008 multiplex families, we performed genome-wide, non-parametric linkage analysis in a discovery sample of 847 families, and separately on subsets of families with only male, affected children (male-only, MO) or with at least one female, affected child (female-containing, FC). Loci showing evidence for suggestive linkage (logarithm of odds ≥2.2) in this discovery sample, or in previous AGRE samples, were re-evaluated in an extension study utilizing all 1,008 available families. For regions with genome-wide significant linkage signal in the discovery stage, those families not included in the corresponding discovery sample were then evaluated for independent replication of linkage. Association testing of common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was also performed within suggestive linkage regions.

Results

We observed an independent replication of previously observed linkage at chromosome 20p13 (P < 0.01), while loci at 6q27 and 8q13.2 showed suggestive linkage in our extended sample. Suggestive sex-differential linkage was observed at 1p31.3 (MO), 8p21.2 (FC), and 8p12 (FC) in our discovery sample, and the MO signal at 1p31.3 was supported in our expanded sample. No sex-differential signals met replication criteria, and no common SNPs were significantly associated with ASD within any identified linkage regions.

Conclusions

With few exceptions, analyses of subsets of families from the AGRE cohort identify different risk loci, consistent with extreme locus heterogeneity in ASD. Large samples appear to yield more consistent results, and sex-stratified analyses facilitate the identification of sex-differential risk loci, suggesting that linkage analyses in large cohorts are useful for identifying heritable risk loci. Additional work, such as targeted re-sequencing, is needed to identify the specific variants within these loci that are responsible for increasing ASD risk.
Process optimization and production kinetics for cellulase production by Trichoderma viride VKF3
Authors: Nathan Vinod Kumar , Esther Rani Mary , Rathinasamy Gunaseeli , Dhiraviam Kannan Narayanan , Jayavel Sridhar
Published: February 2014

Microbial cellulases are the enzymes widely studied due to their enormous applications in biochemical industry. Among 12 fungal isolates isolated from mangrove plant debris and soil sample collected from Valanthakad Mangroves, Kerala, India, 3 of them were found to exhibit cellulolytic activity. Among them, the most potent isolate which exhibited maximum cellulolytic activity was identified asTrichoderma virideVKF3 [Gene bank accession number- JX683684.1] based on colony morphology, microscopic observation and molecular centeracterization using D1/D2 region amplification. The isolateT. virideVKF3 was found to be non-phytopathogenic against the selected plants. Neighbour joining tree depicted its least divergence rate from the root taxon HM466686.1.T. virideVKF3 was grown under dynamic carbon, nitrogen sources, pH and temperature of the medium to draw out the optimum conditions for cellulase production. Protein stability kinetics and biomass production was also studied upto 11thday of incubation. It was evident from the study, that dextrose and beef extract could be used as major carbon and nitrogen sources in submerged fermentation at pH 9.0 and incubation temperature of 25°C to get maximum CMCase yield. Optimum enzyme recovery period was identified between 5thto 9thdays of incubation beyond which the enzyme activity was reduced. By comparing two fermentation methods, submerged fermentation was found to be the best for maximum enzyme production. But utilization of substrates like sugarcane bagasse and cassava starch waste in the SSF offers a better scope in biodegradation of solid waste contributing to solid waste management.