bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Effect of Damage on the Electrical Impedance of Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Epoxy Nanocomposites
Authors: Bekas Dimitrios G. , Paipetis Alkiviadis S.
Published: April 2015

Within the scope of this work is the study of the effect of damage on the electrical hysteretic behaviour of carbon nanotube (CNT) reinforced epoxy nanocomposites. For that purpose CNT reinforced epoxy nanocomposites were subjected to different levels of damage and their response to an AC voltage excitation was monitored. The correlation between frequency dependent impedance properties and level of damage was extensively studied. The AC frequency response of the interrogated specimens from 10 Hz up to 0.5 MHz revealed a strong correlation between the level of damage and the hysteresis of the studied materials.
Polymorphisms inC-Reactive ProteinandGlypican-5Are Associated with Lung Cancer Risk andGartrokine-1Influences Cisplatin-Based Chemotherapy Response in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Thakur Asmitananda , Liang Yiqian , Wang Ting , Gao Lei , Yang Tian , Li Yang , Geng Tingting , Jin Tianbo , Chen Tianjun , Liu Johnson J. , Chen Mingwei
Published: April 2015

The role of genetics in progression of cancer is an established fact, and susceptibility risk and difference in outcome to chemotherapy may be caused by the variation in low-penetrance alleles of risk genes. We selected seven genes (CRP, GPC5, ACTA2, AGPHD1, SEC14L5, RBMS3, andGKN1) that previously reported link to lung cancer (LC) and genotyped single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of these genes in a case-control study. A protective allele “C” was found in rs2808630 of the C-reactive protein (CRP). Model association analysis found genotypes “T/C” and “C/C” in the dominant model and genotype “T/C” in the overdominant model of rs2808630 associated with reduced LC risk. Gender-specific analysis in each model showed that genotypes “T/T” and “C/C” in rs2352028 of theGlypican 5(GPC5) were associated with increased LC risk in males. Logistic regression analysis showed “C/T” genotype carriers of rs4254535 in theGastrokine 1(GKN1) had less likelihood to have chemotherapy response. Our results suggest a potential association betweenCRPandGPC5variants with LC risk; variation inGKN1is associated with chemotherapy response in the Chinese Han population.
Rapid Identification of Pathogens in Positive Blood Culture of Patients with Sepsis: Review and Meta-Analysis of the Performance of the Sepsityper Kit
Authors: Morgenthaler Nils G. , Kostrzewa Markus
Published: April 2015

Sepsis is one of the leading causes of deaths, and rapid identification (ID) of blood stream infection is mandatory to perform adequate antibiotic therapy. The advent of MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry for the rapid ID of pathogens was a major breakthrough in microbiology. Recently, this method was combined with extraction methods for pathogens directly from positive blood cultures. This review summarizes the results obtained so far with the commercial Sepsityper sample preparation kit, which is now approved forin vitrodiagnostic use. Summarizing data from 21 reports, the Sepsityper kit allowed a reliable ID on the species level of 80% of 3320 positive blood culture bottles. Gram negative bacteria resulted consistently in higher ID rates (90%) compared to Gram positive bacteria (76%) or yeast (66%). No relevant misidentifications on the genus level were reported at a log(score)cut-off of 1.6. The Sepsityper kit is a simple and reproducible method which extends the MALDI-TOF technology to positive blood culture specimens and shortens the time to result by several hours or even days. In combination with antibiotic stewardship programs, this rapid ID allows a much faster optimization of antibiotic therapy in patients with sepsis compared to conventional workflows.
AirPrint Forensics: Recovering the Contents and Metadata of Printed Documents from iOS Devices
Authors: Gómez-Miralles Luis , Arnedo-Moreno Joan
Published: April 2015

Since its presentation by Apple, both the iPhone and iPad devices have achieved great success and gained widespread popularity. This fact, added to the given idiosyncrasies of these new portable devices and the kind of data they may store, opens new opportunities in the field of computer forensics. In 2010, version 4 of the iOS operating system introduced AirPrint, a simple and driverless wireless printing functionality supported by hundreds of printer models from all major vendors. This paper describes the traces left in the iOS device when AirPrint is used and presents a method for recovering content and metadata of documents that have been printed.
Life Cycle Analysis on Fossil Energy Ratio of Algal Biodiesel: Effects of Nitrogen Deficiency and Oil Extraction Technology
Authors: Jian Hou , Jing Yang , Peidong Zhang
Published: April 2015

Life cycle assessment (LCA) has been widely used to analyze various pathways of biofuel preparation from “cradle to grave.” Effects of nitrogen supply for algae cultivation and technology of algal oil extraction on life cycle fossil energy ratio of biodiesel are assessed in this study. Life cycle fossil energy ratio of Chlorella vulgaris based biodiesel is improved by growing algae under nitrogen‐limited conditions, while the life cycle fossil energy ratio of biodiesel production from Phaeodactylum tricornutum grown with nitrogen deprivation decreases. Compared to extraction of oil from dried algae, extraction of lipid from wet algae with subcritical cosolvents achieves a 43.83% improvement in fossil energy ratio of algal biodiesel when oilcake drying is not considered. The outcome for sensitivity analysis indicates that the algal oil conversion rate and energy content of algae are found to have the greatest effects on the LCA results of algal biodiesel production, followed by utilization ratio of algal residue, energy demand for algae drying, capacity of water mixing, and productivity of algae.
Uterine Necrosis Associated withFusobacterium necrophorumInfection
Authors: Widelock T. , Elkattah R. , Gibbs S. , Mashak Z. , Mohling S. , DePasquale S.
Published: April 2015

Fusobacterium necrophorumis infrequently implicated as a pathogenic organism. When pathogenic, the typical clinical presentation is that of pharyngitis, cervical adenopathy, and unilateral thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein. Infections caused byFusobacterium necrophorumwithin the fields of obstetrics and gynecology have been infrequently reported. We describe a 19-year-old woman who underwent a cesarean delivery complicated by sepsis and purulent uterine necrosis secondary toFusobacterium necrophoruminfection.
Cytomegalovirus Glycoprotein B Genotypes in Mexican Children and Women
Authors: Gonzalez-Sanchez Hilda M. , Alvarado-Hernandez Diana L. , Guerra-Palomares Sandra , Garcia-Sepulveda Christian A. , Noyola Daniel E.
Published: April 2015

Objective: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is widely distributed and constitutes the main cause of congenital infections worldwide. CMV transmission during pregnancy represents one of the major impacts of this virus on public health. This study aimed at assessing glycoprotein B (gB) CMV genotypes in Mexican children and pregnant women, since there is limited information regarding CMV genomic diversity in Mexico. Methods: We analyzed CMV strains detected in Mexican children (n = 38) and women (n = 38) between 2001 and 2012. A fragment of the gB gene was amplified and sequenced, and genotypes were defined based on prototype sequences. Results: The gB1 genotype was detected more frequently in children (68.4%) compared to women (31.6%; p = 0.0028), while genotype 2 was more common in women (65.8%) compared to children (26.3%, p = 0.0012). Genotype 3 was uncommon in both groups (5.3 and 2.6%). Nucleotide sequences exhibited a high degree of similarity to prototype strains. However, we identified 17 distinct sequences that resulted in changes in the encoded amino acid sequence in four strains. Conclusions: gB1 and gB2 are the most common strains associated with CMV infection in Mexican children and women. In addition, we found that the frequency for each genotype differed amongst them, possibly due to variability in transmission or reactivation dynamics.
Effects of Pulmonary Rehabilitation in Patients with Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis: A Retrospective Analysis of Clinical and Functional Predictors of Efficacy
Authors: Zanini Andrea , Aiello Marina , Adamo Daniela , Cherubino Francesca , Zampogna Elisabetta , Sotgiu Giovanni , Chetta Alfredo , Spanevello Antonio
Published: April 2015

Background: International guidelines recommend the inclusion of patients with bronchiectasis in pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) to improve exercise capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). At present, the effect of PR in these patients has been poorly investigated. Objective: The aim of our retrospective analysis was to evaluate the effects and predictors of success for a PR program in patients with bronchiectasis not related to cystic fibrosis (non-CF bronchiectasis). Methods: One hundred and thirty-five non-CF bronchiectasis inpatients, allocated to a 3-week PR program, were retrospectively evaluated. Exercise capacity (6-min walk distance, 6MWD), dyspnea (Baseline/Transition Dyspnea Index, BDI/TDI), and HRQoL [EuroQol visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS)] were assessed before and after PR. The relationship between baseline parameters and changes in outcome measures after PR was assessed. Both univariate and multiple logistic analyses were performed to evaluate the presence of independent predictors of the efficacy of PR. Results: One hundred and eight patients [49 males, mean age 71 years, mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) 76% predicted] were included. After PR, there was a significant improvement in 6MWD, TDI, and EQ-VAS score (p < 0.001). Changes in 6MWD and EQ-VAS score correlated with baseline FEV1, FEV1/vital capacity (VC), residual volume, transfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide, and the number of exacerbations in the previous year. Both univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that male gender, baseline FEV1/VC <70%, and >2 exacerbations in the previous year were independent predictors of PR efficacy in terms of an improvement in 6MWD. Conclusions: Our study supports the inclusion of patients with bronchiectasis in PR programs. Clinical and functional baseline findings partially predict the response to PR in terms of exercise tolerance. Further prospective, randomized, controlled trials are needed.
Effect of Mirtazapine on Rat Bone Tissue after Orchidectomy
Authors: Fekete Sona , Simko Julius , Mzik Martin , Karesova Iva , Zivna Helena , Pavlíková Ladislava , Palicka Vladimir
Published: April 2015

Objective: Our study aimed to investigate the effect of mirtazapine on bone metabolism in the orchidectomized rat model. Methods: Rats were divided into three groups. A sham-operated control group (SHAM group) and a control group after orchidectomy (ORX group) received the standard laboratory diet (SLD). An experimental group after orchidectomy (ORX MIRTA group) received SLD enriched with mirtazapine for 12 weeks. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Bone marker concentrations of osteoprotegerin (OPG), amino-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I, bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP), sclerostin and bone morphogenetic protein 2 were examined in bone homogenate. The femurs were used for biomechanical testing. Results: Compared with the control ORX group, we found a lower BMD in the ORX MIRTA group. The differences were statistically significant, although not in the lumbar vertebrae. BMD was lower in the MIRTA group, suggesting a preferential effect on cortical bone. However, although the thickness of the diaphyseal cortical bone was not different, the fragility in the femoral neck area was statistically significantly different between the groups in biomechanical testing. Regarding the bone metabolism markers, there was a significant decrease in OPG and BALP levels, suggesting a reduction in osteoid synthesis. Conclusions: The results suggest that prolonged use of mirtazapine may have a negative effect on the synthesis of bone and on its mechanical strength, especially in the femoral neck. Further studies are warranted to establish whether mirtazapine may have a clinically significant adverse effect on bone exclusively in the model of gonadectomized rats, or whether the effect occurs also in the model of gonadally intact animals and in respective human models.
Pharmacokinetic Interaction Study Combining Lapatinib with Vorinostat in Rats
Authors: Lin Feiyan , Wang Shuanghu , Zhou Yunfang , Wu Chunmei , Zou Huilong , Geng Peiwu , Zhang Qingwei , Zhang Xiuhua
Published: April 2015

Background: Because lapatinib and vorinostat [suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA)] are both new anticancer drugs, interactions between SAHA and lapatinib remain unclear. This study examines pharmacokinetic interactions in simultaneous oral administration of SAHA and lapatinib to rats. Methods: Twenty-four rats were divided randomly into 3 groups: a lapatinib group (lapatinib 25 mg/kg, n = 8), a SAHA group (SAHA 25 mg/kg, n = 8), and a coadministration group (SAHA 25 mg/kg and lapatinib 25 mg/kg, n = 8). Using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, the concentrations of lapatinib and SAHA were determined in the plasma of the test rats. Results: Statistically significant pharmacokinetic differences appeared for lapatinib levels between the lapatinib and the coadministration group. When lapatinib was coadministered with SAHA, the AUC0-t decreased from 39,816.6 to 23,712.8 ng/ml∙h (p < 0.05), while the mean residence time (MRT)0-t increased from 7.0 to 10.3 h (p < 0.05) and t1/2 increased from 3.5 to 6.4 h (p < 0.05). Between the SAHA levels for the SAHA group and those for the coadministration group, there appeared to be no statistically significant differences. Conclusion: The resulting data indicate that, when administered together, lapatinib does not influence the pharmacokinetic profile of SAHA in rats, while, in contrast, SAHA influences the pharmacokinetic profile of lapatinib.
Irinotecan Induces Cell Cycle Arrest, but Not Apoptosis or Necrosis, in Caco-2 and CW2 Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Kaku Yoshiko , Tsuchiya Ayako , Kanno Takeshi , Nishizaki Tomoyuki
Published: April 2015

Irinotecan, a topoisomerase I inhibitor, is clinically used as an anticancer drug. The present study investigated the anticancer effect of irinotecan on p53-negative Caco-2 and p53-positive CW2 human colorectal cancer cell lines. Cell viability for both Caco-2 and CW2 cells was little affected by treatment with irinotecan at concentrations ranging from 0.3 to 30 μmol/l for 24-48 h. Irinotecan did not increase the number of TUNEL-positive cells and did not affect the population of propidium iodide (PI)-positive and annexin V-negative cells, corresponding to primary necrosis, or that of PI-positive and annexin-positive cells, corresponding to late apoptosis/secondary necrosis, in either of the two cell lines. In the cell cycle analysis, irinotecan significantly increased the proportions at the S and G2/M phases of cell cycling in parallel with a decreased population at the G1 phase in both cell lines. Irinotecan significantly inhibited tumor growth in mice inoculated with CW2 cells. Taken together, these results indicate that irinotecan induces cell cycle arrest, but not apoptosis or necrosis, both in Caco-2 and CW2 cells, leading to suppression of cell proliferation.
Retinoblastoma in Chinese Children Aged Five to Fourteen Years
Authors: Chang Ying , Shi Jitong , Zhao Junyang , Xu Xiaolin , Ma Jianmin , Shen Ling , Bai Haixia , Gao Fei , Zhang Zhibao , Li Bin , Jonas Jost B.
Published: April 2015

Objective: To assess the characteristics of retinoblastomas enucleated from Chinese children aged 5-14 years. Methods: This retrospective hospital-based study included all eyes with retinoblastomas consecutively enucleated in the Beijing Tongren Hospital between August 2003 and July 2013. Results: Out of 1,205 patients, 47 (3.9%) were 5 years or older. All tumors in this age group occurred unilaterally, the patients had a negative family history, and the tumors were detected at an age of 6.9 ± 1.8 years (range: 5-14). The main clinical features at the time of examining the as yet untreated children aged 5-7 years (n = 30) or >7-14 years (n = 10) were leukocoria, strabismus, pseudohypopyon, hypertension, vitreous seeds (‘snowballs'), and calcifications. In 12 patients (26%), the retinoblastoma had not initially been diagnosed as a tumor. Histopathology revealed tumor invasion into nonretinal tissue in 19 eyes (40%). Therapy included enucleation only (n = 22; 47%), adjuvant systemic chemotherapy (n = 24; 51%), and additional orbital exenteration (n = 1). After a mean follow-up of 3.0 ± 2.1 years (range: 0.2-9.8), which was done for 40 children, none of these children showed a tumor recurrence. Conclusions: Of the children undergoing enucleation for retinoblastoma in Beijing, 3.9% were aged 5 years or more. As in Western countries, the tumor occurrence was unilateral, their family history was negative, and the survival rate was relatively high in these children. In 1 out of 4 children, the tumor had initially been misdiagnosed due to a masquerade syndrome. Retinoblastoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any unclear intraocular situation in children.
A Novel Molecular Cytogenetic Finding of Leiomyomatosis Peritonealis Disseminata
Authors: Wu Yan-Ting , Wu Yan , Chen Song-Chang , Zhou Feng , Yang Chun-Bo , Xie Zhen-Wei , Xu Chen-Ming , Jin Hang-Mei
Published: April 2015

Background: Leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD) is a rare disease characterised by the subperitoneal proliferation of smooth muscle cells that form benign nodules. A few studies have aimed to reveal the pathogenesis of LPD without reaching a clear explanation. Methods: Karyotype analysis and array-comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) of a human LPD case were performed to evaluate the role of chromosomal abnormalities in LPD pathogenesis. Results: The LPD nodules showed a 45, XX, del(7p), t(11; 17) (q23;q25),-22 de novo karyotype, and the aCGH analysis confirmed these deletions at 7p22.3-p12.1 (1,862,362-52,766,911 bp) and 22q11.23-q13.33 (21,973,915-49,265,116 bp) with lengths of 50.9 Mb and 27.3 Mb, respectively. Conclusion: In this study, we described two large novel aberrations - deletions in chromosome 7 and 22 - that might play an important role in LPD disease. These findings might contribute to new insights to unravel the pathogenesis of LPD and develop further clinical treatments.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Isolation of Aspergillus and Candida from Sputum in Patients with Non-Cystic Fibrosis Bronchiectasis
Authors: Máiz Luis , Vendrell Montserrat , Olveira Casilda , Girón Rosa , Nieto Rosa , Martínez-García Miguel Ángel
Published: April 2015

Background: Information on the role of fungi in non-cystic fibrosis (CF) bronchiectasis is lacking. Objectives: Our aim was to determine the prevalence of and factors associated with the isolation and persistence of fungi from sputum in these patients. Methods: We performed a multicenter observational study comprising adult patients with non-CF bronchiectasis. Persistence of Aspergillus spp. and Candida albicans was defined as the presence of ≥2 positive sputum cultures taken at least 6 months apart within a period of 5 years. Results: A total of 252 patients (62.7% women with a mean ± SD age of 55.3 ± 16.7 years) were included in the study. All patients had at least 1 sputum sample cultured for fungi, with a mean ± SD of 7 ± 6 cultures per patient. Eighteen (8.7%) and 71 (34.5%) patients had persistent positive cultures for Aspergillus spp. and C. albicans, respectively. Patients with persistence of Aspergillus spp. and C. albicans were older and had more daily purulent sputum. In addition, patients with persistent C. albicans had worse postbronchodilator forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), more frequent cystic bronchiectasis, and more hospital-treated exacerbations. They were also more frequently treated with long-term antibiotics. Multivariate analysis showed that daily purulent sputum (OR = 3.75, p = 0.045) and long-term antibiotics (OR = 2.37, p = 0.005) were independently associated with persistence of Aspergillus spp. and C. albicans, respectively. Conclusions: Isolation and persistence of Aspergillus spp. and C. albicans are frequent in patients with non-CF bronchiectasis. Daily purulent sputum and chronic antibiotic treatment were associated with persistence of Aspergillus spp. and C. albicans, respectively.
Normal-Appearing Endometrial Cells in Pap Tests of Women Aged Forty Years or Older and Cytohistological Correlates
Authors: Izadi-Mood Narges , Sarmadi Soheila , Sanii Sanaz , Sadidi Hossein
Published: April 2015

Objective: The Bethesda System 2001 for reporting cervical cytology recommends reporting benign-appearing, exfoliated endometrial cells in women aged 40 years or older. The objective of this study was to determine the significance of normal endometrial cells in conventional Papanicolaou (Pap) tests of women aged 40 years and older and to correlate this finding with histological follow-up. Study Design: Over a period of 5 years, all Pap tests showing endometrial cells in women aged ≥40 years were identified. Histological follow-up and outcome were evaluated. Results: Out of 17,275 Pap tests, 199 (1.15%) showed benign endometrial cells. Forty-seven of these 199 patients had subsequent tissue sampling by surgical procedures including endometrial curettage (n = 31), lower genital tract biopsy (n = 30) and hysterectomy (n = 2). Overall, out of 47 cases, 3 (6.4%) had significant endometrial pathology including 2 simple hyperplasias without atypia and 1 complex hyperplasia with atypia. Conclusion: The incidence of clinically significant endometrial lesions associated with the presence of endometrial cells in Pap tests of women aged 40 years and older was very low. Considering this finding, women aged between 40 and 50 years with benign endometrial cells in a Pap test should undertake endometrial sampling only when additional clinical indicators are recognized.
Factors Influencing the Reliability of Thyroid Fine-Needle Aspiration: Analysis of Thyroid Nodule Size, Guidance Mode for Aspiration and Preparation Method
Authors: Guo Hui-qin , Zhang Zhi-hui , Zhao Huan , Niu Li-juan , Chang Qing , Pan Qin-Jing
Published: April 2015

Objective: We aimed to clarify the influence of ThinPrep preparation, nodule size and guidance mode on the accuracy of thyroid fine-needle aspiration (FNA). Methods: A total of 1,240 thyroid FNAs were reviewed and 489 cases with histological correlations were enrolled in this study. Results: Of the 489 total cases examined, 101 were processed with both ThinPrep and conventional preparation and 388 entirely with ThinPrep. The overall nondiagnostic rate, sensitivity and accuracy of FNA were 2.0, 91.0 and 89.4%, respectively. The cases with a preoperative ultrasound (n = 469) were grouped according to nodule size. The nondiagnostic rate, sensitivity and accuracy of FNA did not differ significantly with nodule size (p1 = 0.339, p2 = 0.179, p3 = 0.119). A total of 101 resections were performed with palpation-guided FNA and 388 were performed with ultrasound-guided FNA. The nondiagnostic rates, sensitivity and accuracy of FNA were similar in these two groups. Conclusions: The ThinPrep technique is a valid method for thyroid FNA and is effective for thyroid nodules ≥0.5 cm. The reliability of FNA results is not reduced with larger nodules. The use of palpation-guided FNA for palpable solid nodules is also effective.
The Prevalence of Human Bocavirus, Human Coronavirus-NL63, Human Metapneumovirus, Human Polyomavirus KI and WU in Respiratory Tract Infections in Kuwait
Authors: Essa Sahar , Owayed Abdullah , Altawalah Haya , Khadadah Mousa , Behbehani Nasser , Al-Nakib Widad
Published: April 2015

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of human coronavirus (HCoV)-NL63, human metapneumovirus (hMPV), human bocavirus (Boca), human polyomavirus KI (KIV) and human polyomavirus WU (WUV) in respiratory tract infections (RTI) in Kuwait. Materials and Methods: Respiratory samples from 735 hospitalized patients with RTI from September 2010 to April 2013 were evaluated for the presence of HCoV-NL63, hMPV, Boca, KIV and WUV using molecular assays, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse-transcription PCR. Results: Of the 735 patients, 285 (38.8%) were diagnosed with viral RTI. The distribution of respiratory viruses was hMPV: 15 (5.3%), Boca: 14 (4.9%), WUV: 10 (3.5%) and KIV: 4 (1.4%). HCoV-NL63 was not detected in any of the samples. Conclusions: These newly discovered viruses were associated with the development of RTI in Kuwait. The rapid identification of these viral infections could aid in the control of nosocomial transmission, reduce the use of antibiotics and improve treatment and management strategies.
Increased Prevalence of Sleep Apnea in Children with Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1a
Authors: Landreth Hannah , Malow Beth A. , Shoemaker Ashley H.
Published: April 2015

Background/Aims: Pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1a (PHP1a) is a rare genetic disorder. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sleep apnea in children with PHP1a. Methods: Nineteen patients with PHP1a between the age of 2 and 21 years were enrolled prospectively using online advertisements. Parents completed a medical history and surveys to assess sleep behavior. Polysomnography records were obtained when available. In addition, 18 subjects were identified in a retrospective chart review of de-identified medical records with 2.3 million patient charts. Results: Parents reported sleep disturbance (94%) and daytime somnolence (81%) in their children with PHP1a. In the retrospective chart review, 39% had a history of sleep apnea versus 8.8% of a similarly obese control group. In the combined analysis (n = 31), 52% had a history of snoring and 45% had a diagnosis of sleep apnea. Patients were obese with a mean BMI z-score of 2.20 ± 0.59. Patients with sleep apnea were significantly younger than those without a diagnosis (8.1 ± 5.4 vs. 12.8 ± 5.0 years, p = 0.02). Conclusions: Children with PHP1a have a 4.4-fold greater relative risk of sleep apnea than similarly obese children. Screening for sleep apnea in this population may be warranted to prevent adverse health outcomes.
Deletion of 4.4 Mb at 2q33.2q33.3 May Cause Growth Deficiency in a Patient with Mental Retardation, Facial Dysmorphic Features and Speech Delay
Authors: Papoulidis Ioannis , Paspaliaris Vassilis , Papageorgiou Elena , Siomou Elissavet , Dagklis Themistoklis , Sotiriou Sotirios , Thomaidis Loretta , Manolakos Emmanouil
Published: April 2015

A patient with a rare interstitial deletion of chromosomal band 2q33.2q33.3 is described. The clinical features resembled the 2q33.1 microdeletion syndrome (Glass syndrome), including mental retardation, facial dysmorphism, high-arched narrow palate, growth deficiency, and speech delay. The chromosomal aberration was characterized by whole genome BAC aCGH. A comparison of the current patient and Glass syndrome features revealed that this case displayed a relatively mild phenotype. Overall, it is suggested that the deleted region of 2q33 causative for Glass syndrome may be larger than initially suggested.
Optimizing Exposure Therapy for Anxiety Disorders: An Inhibitory Learning and Inhibitory Regulation Approach
Authors: Craske Michelle
Published: April 2015

Exposure-based cognitive-behavioral therapy is the treatment of choice for anxiety disorders. Unfortunately, many individuals fail to benefit from treatment or demonstrate a return of fear. Inhibitory learning and inhibitory regulation models provide a parsimonious and unifying framework from which to situate exposure therapy and provide useful strategies to augment exposure therapy, especially as individuals with anxiety disorders show inhibitory deficits. This paper provides an overview of our application of inhibitory learning from the science of extinction, and inhibitory regulation from the neuroscience of emotion regulation, to exposure therapy for anxiety disorders.
Nephrogenic Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuresis in a Female Neonate: Review of the Clinical Presentation in Females
Authors: Brachet Cécile , Vandergheynst Frédéric , Heinrichs Claudine
Published: April 2015

Background: Nephrogenic syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (NSIAD) is a rare X-linked disease due to gain-of-function mutations in the AVP V2 receptor gene. Hemizygous males present with recurrent episodes of severe hyponatremia in infancy. Heterozygous females are usually asymptomatic. Case Report: We report on a 23-day-old female neonate, born at term with 3,260 g that presented with recurrent hyponatremia (Na between 124 and 134 mmol/l) due to NSIAD. She was a heterozygous carrier of the c.409 C>T mutation in the AVPR2 gene. Conclusions: This is the first report of a female neonate presenting with hyponatremia due to NSIAD. The diagnosis of NSIAD should not be limited to male infants and should also be considered in female infants with the clinical picture of inappropriate antidiuresis.
In vitro and in vivo Anticancer Effects of a Novel 9-Phenyldibenzo[a,c]phenazin-9-ium Cation and Its Ligands
Authors: Das Satyajit , Banerjee Kaushik , Biswas Manas Kumar , Bhadra Ranjan , Ghosh Prasanta , Choudhuri Soumitra Kumar
Published: April 2015

Background: Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major problem in cancer treatment. Cu complexes possess the ability to overcome MDR in cancer. Therefore, the search for new Cu complexes is of great clinical significance and we address the anticancer effects of a previously synthesized novel 9-phenyldibenzo[a,c]phenazin-9-ium cation [1+] as [1] [CuCl2] and as [1] [I]. Methods: The existence of the monovalent Cu(I) in [1] [CuCl2] was proven by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies and in vivo anticancer effects were studied in animals. Results: The monovalent nature of the Cu ion in [1] [CuCl2] was determined through EPR. The mean survival time of mice bearing doxorubicin-resistant Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells is longer when [1] [I] is injected intraperitoneally whereas [1] [CuCl2] does not significantly increase the median survival in tumor-bearing mice. Compounds do not follow the immunomodulatory route and only [1] [I] shows cytotoxic activity in both MDR and drug-sensitive leukemia cell lines. Conclusion: An organic iodide complex rather than a cupric complex possesses direct cytotoxic potential.
The Genetics of IgA Nephropathy: An Overview from Western Countries
Authors: Feehally John , Barratt Jonathan
Published: April 2015

Background: IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the commonest primary glomerulonephritis worldwide and a significant cause of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. It is widely accepted that genetic factors play a role in the pathogenesis of IgAN. However, the identity of these genetic factors remains uncertain. Summary: Critical to all genetic studies is a precise phenotypic definition of the disease. It is well recognised that IgAN displays striking phenotypic variation, raising the possibility that it may not be a single disease and it may not be the same disease in different parts of the world. In this review, we discuss the challenges that this phenotypic variation poses to interpreting genetic data and the current evidence for specific gene involvement in IgAN, focusing particularly on data from European IgAN cohorts. Key Messages: With advances in genetic techniques, in particular next-generation sequencing, and an increased understanding of the importance of copy number variations, epigenetics and transcriptomics, it is likely that we will gain a greater understanding of the genetic basis for IgAN. However, due to the lack of consistency in epidemiological clinicopathological studies both within and between continents, this will only be achieved if we are able to more precisely phenotype IgAN populations. Facts from East and West: The reported prevalence of IgAN is higher in Asia than in Europe and North America. However, differences in use of biopsy for the diagnosis of IgAN should be taken into account in analysing data from both East and West. In Europe, IgAN affects men more frequently than women; this is not the case in Asia. Familial IgAN has been more frequently reported in Europe than in Asia. Within Europe, familial IgAN is more evident in southern than in northern populations. Changes in the pattern of serum IgA1 O-glycosylation is a common finding in IgAN patients in the East and West. SNPs within the gene coding for the enzyme C1GALT1 have been reported in Chinese and European patients. However, there is no evidence for a role of gene polymorphism of the C1GALT1 chaperone cosmc in Europeans. Genetic variants in the HLA gene family have been observed in populations from the East and West. Associations between IgAN and variants of the TAP1/PSMB and DEFA genes were observed in Asian but not in Western patients. Association with the angiotensin-converting enzyme gene was seen only in Asian patients.
Breast Lesions during Pregnancy - a Diagnostic Challenge: Case Report
Authors: Beyer Ines , Mutschler Nikola , Blum Katrin S. , Mohrmann Svjetlana
Published: April 2015

Background: Palpable masses of the breast often occur during pregnancy and should be further investigated. The standard diagnostic during pregnancy is an ultrasound combined, if needed, with a core needle biopsy. Most lesions are benign in younger women but, nevertheless, the incidence of pregnancy-associated breast cancer is 1 in 3,000 deliveries and rising. Case Report: We report the case of a 24-year-old patient diagnosed with a palpable breast lesion at 37 weeks of gestation. An ultrasound was performed and the lesion was rated BI-RADS 4. The initial core needle biopsy showed a ductal carcinoma in situ. After delivery and ablactating, a mammography, breast magnetic resonance imaging and a second ultrasound-guided biopsy was performed. Due to the inconclusive imaging and histological results, a wide excision was performed and a juvenile papillomatosis was confirmed. No further resection was necessary as the initial margins were sufficient. Conclusion: This case suggests that the diagnosis of masses of the breast during pregnancy and lactation can be quite difficult. Diagnosis should be confirmed by an excision biopsy and by histological examination through an experienced pathologist. As a significant proportion of papillomas contain malignant regions, an argument exists for the complete excision of all papillary tumours.
The Total Calvarial Remodeling with Transsutural Distraction Osteogenesis of 21 Cases of Craniosynostosis: New, Efficient, Safe and Natural Method in Craniosynostosis Surgery
Authors: Park Dong Ha , Yoon Soo Han
Published: April 2015

Introduction: The majority of the present distraction osteogenesis techniques involve local site expansion that only produces localized decompression and affords limited decompression and cosmetic results. We designed a new surgical procedure, total calvarial transsutural distraction osteogenesis (TSuDO). Methods: We performed total calvarial TSuDO surgical procedures in 21 children. The total calvarial TSuDO method consisted of suturectomy and distraction for the sagittal, bicoronal and bilambdoid sutures. Results: The mean surgery duration was 110 ± 16 min, the mean transfusion volume was 38 ± 45 ml, an average 4.1 ± 0.4 distractors were applied with a mean latency period of 3.3 ± 0.9 days. The mean activation period was 45 ± 18 days with a consolidation period of 54 ± 23 days. There were 3 complication cases of early removal of the distractors: 1 boy with transient 6th cranial nerve palsy accompanied by fever and 2 children with mild pus discharge from the distractor sites. Preoperative lumbar puncture pressures decreased significantly after distractor removal secondary to surgery (p < 0.001). The preoperative cranium size increased significantly (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Total calvarial TSuDO is a simple and safe procedure that may produce wide generalized decompression and good cranial configurations that most closely resemble normal skulls.
Brown-McLean Syndrome in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Tourkmani Abdo Karim , Martinez Jaime D. , Berrones David , Juárez-Domínguez Brenda Y. , Beltrán Francisco , Galor Anat
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this manuscript is to report the case of a 12-year-old patient who presented for routine ophthalmic examination after congenital cataract surgery performed at 2 months of age. The patient was diagnosed with bilateral Brown-McLean syndrome by slit lamp examination. No treatment was required because the patient was asymptomatic and had a clear central cornea. This is the first described case of Brown-McLean syndrome in a pediatric patient, representing the importance of clinical examination in the pediatric age group after cataract surgery because of the risk for patients of developing peripheral edema.
Intimate Relationships Affected by Breast Cancer: Interventions for Couples
Authors: Zimmermann Tanja
Published: April 2015

A cancer diagnosis imposes significant emotional distress on a substantial proportion of patients and their partners, posing many challenges for both members of a couple. Facing a breast cancer diagnosis, couples may experience psychosocial distress, which might also affect their individual and dyadic functioning. Coping with cancer from a couple-based perspective as a dyadic stressor can profoundly influence psychosocial adjustment as well as individual and dyadic functioning of patients and spouses. Dyadic coping allows a better matching of needs, sharing of worries, and mutual support, resulting in higher relationship satisfaction. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the issues faced by women diagnosed with breast cancer and their spouses, with particular emphasis on interventions for couples coping with cancer. The effectiveness of couple-based interventions is summarized with a critical discussion. For further research, a better understanding of the challenges couples coping with cancer may face and more insights on how to improve interventions for couples might facilitate improvements in the quality of cancer care.
Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products: How to Bring Cell-Based Medicinal Products Successfully to the Market - Report from the CAT-DGTI-GSCN Workshop at the DGTI Annual Meeting 2014
Authors: Celis Patrick , Ferry Nicolas , Hystad Marit , Schüßler-Lenz Martina , Doevendans Pieter A. , Flory Egbert , Beuneu Claire , Reischl Ilona , Salmikangas Paula
Published: April 2015

On September 11, 2014, a workshop entitled ‘Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products: How to Bring Cell-Based Medicinal Product Successfully to the Market' was held at the 47th annual meeting of the German Society for Transfusion Medicine and Immunohematology (DGTI), co-organised by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the DGTI in collaboration with the German Stem Cell Network (GSCN). The workshop brought together over 160 participants from academia, hospitals, small- or medium-sized enterprise developers and regulators. At the workshop, speakers from EMA, the Committee for Advanced Therapies (CAT), industry and academia addressed the regulatory aspects of development and authorisation of advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs), classification of ATMPs and considerations on cell-based therapies for cardiac repair. The open forum discussion session allowed for a direct interaction between ATMP developers and the speakers from EMA and CAT.
Bridging the Research-Practice Divide in Youth Psychotherapy: The Deployment-Focused Model and Transdiagnostic Treatment
Authors: Weisz John R.
Published: April 2015

Five decades of research have produced scores of empirically tested psychotherapies for youths who have mental health problems and disorders. These empirically supported treatments (ESTs), most of them focused on single disorders or single problem domains (e.g., depressive disorders), have shown substantial effects in randomized controlled efficacy trials. However, the ESTs do not fare as well when tested against usual clinical care with clinically referred youths treated in clinically representative conditions. One reason may be that referred youths and their clinical care contexts are sometimes more complex than the ESTs. For example, most youths referred for treatment have multiple problems and disorders, and their treatment needs shift over time. To address the differences between efficacy research conditions and clinical practice, we have proposed a deployment-focused model of treatment development and testing, recommending research that focuses on the kinds of individuals and intervention contexts for which the treatments are ultimately intended. Our work with colleagues consistent with the deployment-focused model has led to a transdiagnostic intervention approach, Child STEPs. STEPs uses an integrative modular treatment protocol derived from the psychotherapy evidence base, with treatment guided by frequent feedback to clinicians on youth treatment response. In a multisite randomized trial of this approach, applied to youths with anxiety, depression, and conduct problems, STEPs markedly outperformed usual clinical care on measures of clinical symptoms and diagnosis. The findings illustrate the potential of the deployment-focused approach to narrow the gap between clinical science and everyday clinical care.
Suggestions for a Parametric Typology of Dance
Authors: Napoli Donna Jo , Kraus Lisa
Published: April 2015

Dance and language are produced and performed by the body and governed by cognitive faculties. Yet regrettably little scholarship applies the tools of formal analysis from one field to the other. This article aims to enrich the dialogue between the two fields. The authors introduce an approach to dance typology informed by an analogy with the parametric theory of language analysis, which is useful in typologizing languages. This initial exploration paves the way for a physiological typology of dance that does not reference culture.
Perceptual Learning, the Mere Exposure Effect and Aesthetic Antirealism
Authors: Nanay Bence
Published: April 2015

It has been argued that some recent experimental findings about the mere exposure effect can be used to argue for aesthetic antirealism: the view that there is no fact of the matter about aesthetic value. The aim of this article is to assess this argument and point out that this strategy, as it stands, does not work. But we may still be able to use experimental findings about the mere exposure effect in order to engage with the aesthetic realism/antirealism debate. However, this argument would need to proceed very differently and would only support a much more modest version of aesthetic antirealism.
The Effects of Surface Kinetics on Crystal Growth and Homogeneous Freezing in Parcel Simulations of Cirrus
Authors: Zhang Chengzhu , Harrington Jerry Y.
Published: April 2015

The uptake of water vapor excess by ice crystals is a key process regulating the supersaturation in cold clouds. Both the ice crystal number concentration and depositional growth rate control the vapor uptake rate and are sensitive to the deposition coefficient . The deposition coefficient depends on temperature and supersaturation; however, cloud models either ignore or assume a constant .

In this study, the effects of on crystal growth and homogeneous freezing of haze solution drops in simulated cirrus are examined. A Lagrangian parcel model is used with a new ice growth model that predicts the deposition coefficients along two crystal growth axes. Parcel model results indicate that predicting can be critical for predicting ice nucleation and supersaturation at different stages of cloud development. At cloud base, model results show that surface kinetics constrain the homogeneous freezing rate primarily through the growth impact of small particle sizes in comparison to the mean free path. The deposition coefficient has little effect on homogeneous freezing rates, because the high cloud-base supersaturation produces near unity. Above the cloud-base nucleation zone, decreasing supersaturation causes to decrease to values as low as 0.001. These low values of lead to higher steady-state supersaturation. Also, the low values of produce substantial impacts on particle shape evolution and particle size, both of which are dependent on updraft strength.
The Development of Upper-Tropospheric Wind over the Western Hemisphere in Association with MJO Convective Initiation
Authors: Sakaeda Naoko , Roundy Paul E.
Published: April 2015

This study examines the structure and driving mechanisms of upper-tropospheric intraseasonal zonal wind anomalies over the Western Hemisphere (WH) during the convective initiation of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) over the Indian Ocean using composite and budget analyses. The initiating MJO convection is more often associated with WH upper-tropospheric intraseasonal easterly wind anomalies, and when it is, it tends to develop a stronger and zonally broader envelope of enhanced convection than events associated with westerly wind anomalies. The WH upper-tropospheric zonal wind anomaly associated with the MJO is often described as a dry Kelvin wave radiated from MJO convection, but the results show that both the structure and driving mechanisms are different from the ones of theoretical Kelvin waves. Unlike the theoretical Kelvin wave, the zonal wind anomaly is not driven mainly by the zonal pressure gradient force and it is strongly coupled with rotational wind associated with subtropical and equatorward-propagating midlatitude Rossby waves. The intraseasonal zonal wind anomaly amplifies over the eastern Pacific and Atlantic basins because of advection of the background wind by intraseasonal wind in the presence of background zonal wind convergence, which allows acceleration in the same sign of the present intraseasonal zonal wind anomaly. A part of the WH intraseasonal easterly wind initiates in the lower stratosphere and is advected downward as it merges with eastward-propagating easterly wind in the upper troposphere. The initial sources of the lower-stratospheric intraseasonal easterly wind include equatorward intrusion of midlatitude waves and an equatorial Rossby wave.
Entropy Production and Climate Efficiency
Authors: Bannon Peter R.
Published: April 2015

Earth’s climate system is a heat engine, absorbing solar radiation at a mean input temperature Tin and emitting terrestrial radiation at a lower, mean output temperature Tout < Tin. These mean temperatures, defined as the ratio of the energy to entropy input or output, determine the Carnot efficiency of the system. The climate system, however, does no external work, and hence its work efficiency is zero. The system does produce entropy and exports it to space. The efficiency associated with this entropy production is defined for two distinct representations of the climate system. The first defines the system as the sum of the various material subsystems, with the solar and terrestrial radiation fields constituting the surroundings. The second defines the system as a control volume that includes the material and radiation systems below the top of the atmosphere. These two complementary representations are contrasted using a radiative–convective equilibrium model of the climate system. The efficiency of Earth’s climate system based on its material entropy production is estimated using the two representations.