bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous Resolution of Residual Mitral Regurgitation in Patient With ALCAPA on ECMO
Authors: Makhija Zeena , Awasthy Neeraj , Mohera Anil , Sharma Rajesh , Kaushal Sunil
Published: October 2012

We describe a case of revascularization for anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) with severe left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and severe mitral regurgitation (MR). Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), later successfully converted to an indigenous left ventricular assist device (LVAD) functionally resulted in the spontaneous resolution of MR and satisfactory recovery of LV function.
Heat treatment method for making high strength and conductivity Cu–Cr–Zr alloy
Authors: Lin G B , Wang Z D , Zhang M K , Zhang H , Zhao M
Published: October 2012

In this paper, the heat treatment called ‘a two-step aging process’ with the feature of the first step aging at a low temperature for a long time and the second step aging at a higher temperature for a short time has been proposed. Applying this process, the Cu–Cr–Zr alloy possessing both high strength and high conductivity can be acquired due to the formation of numerous tiny particles precipitated fully out from Cu matrix.
Laser transformation hardening of carbon steel: microhardness analysis on microstructural phases
Authors: Qiu F , Uusitalo J , Kujanpää V
Published: October 2012

This study investigates the microhardness and microstructure of different steels hardened by a fibre laser. Rolled steel, quenched and tempered steel, annealed alloyed steel and conventionally through hardened steel were tested. Microhardness (HV0·01) was measured in martensite, pearlite, ferrite and cementite structures at different depths below the laser irradiated surface. The microhardness results were compared with the conventional macrohardness (HV5) results. The grain size of rolled ferritic–pearlitic steels had distinct effect on microhardness. The macrohardness of quenched and tempered steel might be markedly influenced by the homogeneity of alloy contents. In high carbon steel, cementite is ∼150 HV harder than pearlite. Annealed alloyed steels achieved high surface hardness but poor hardened depth. Dispersed granular pearlite did not affect the microhardness of soft annealed steel. The macrohardness of the base material was close to the microhardness of the softer phase structure. The measured microhardness was about 100–250 HV higher than the macrohardness.
Sinonasal inflammation in COPD: a systematic review
Authors: Håkansson Kåre , Konge Lars , Thomsen Simon F. , Backer Vibeke , von Buchwald Christian
Published: October 2012

In this review, we demonstrate that patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) frequently report sinonasal symptoms. Furthermore, we present evidence that smoking on its own can cause nasal disease and that, in COPD patients, nasal inflammation mimics that of the bronchi. All this evidence suggests that COPD-related sinonasal disease does exist and that smoking on its own rather than systemic inflammation triggers the condition. However, COPD-related sinonasal disease remains to be characterised in terms of symptoms and endoscopic findings. In addition, more studies are needed to quantify the negative impact of sinonasal symptoms on the quality of life in COPD patients.
Atlas2 Cloud: a framework for personal genome analysis in the cloud
Authors: Evani Uday S , Challis Danny , Yu Jin , Jackson Andrew R , Paithankar Sameer , Bainbridge Matthew N , Jakkamsetti Adinarayana , Pham Peter , Coarfa Cristian , Milosavljevic Aleksandar , Yu Fuli
Published: October 2012

Background

Until recently, sequencing has primarily been carried out in large genome centers which have invested heavily in developing the computational infrastructure that enables genomic sequence analysis. The recent advancements in next generation sequencing (NGS) have led to a wide dissemination of sequencing technologies and data, to highly diverse research groups. It is expected that clinical sequencing will become part of diagnostic routines shortly. However, limited accessibility to computational infrastructure and high quality bioinformatic tools, and the demand for personnel skilled in data analysis and interpretation remains a serious bottleneck. To this end, the cloud computing and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) technologies can help address these issues.

Results

We successfully enabled the Atlas2 Cloud pipeline for personal genome analysis on two different cloud service platforms: a community cloud via the Genboree Workbench, and a commercial cloud via the Amazon Web Services using Software-as-a-Service model. We report a case study of personal genome analysis using our Atlas2 Genboree pipeline. We also outline a detailed cost structure for running Atlas2 Amazon on whole exome capture data, providing cost projections in terms of storage, compute and I/O when running Atlas2 Amazon on a large data set.

Conclusions

We find that providing a web interface and an optimized pipeline clearly facilitates usage of cloud computing for personal genome analysis, but for it to be routinely used for large scale projects there needs to be a paradigm shift in the way we develop tools, in standard operating procedures, and in funding mechanisms.
Mathematical modeling and stability analysis of macrophage activation in left ventricular remodeling post-myocardial infarction
Authors: Wang Yunji , Yang Tianyi , Ma Yonggang , Halade Ganesh V , Zhang Jianqiu , Lindsey Merry L , Jin Yu-Fang
Published: October 2012

Background

About 6 million Americans suffer from heart failure and 70% of heart failure cases are caused by myocardial infarction (MI). Following myocardial infarction, increased cytokines induce two major types of macrophages: classically activated macrophages which contribute to extracellular matrix destruction and alternatively activated macrophages which contribute to extracellular matrix construction. Though experimental results have shown the transitions between these two types of macrophages, little is known about the dynamic progression of macrophages activation. Therefore, the objective of this study is to analyze macrophage activation patterns post-MI.

Results

We have collected experimental data from adult C57 mice and built a framework to represent the regulatory relationships among cytokines and macrophages. A set of differential equations were established to characterize the regulatory relationships for macrophage activation in the left ventricle post-MI based on the physical chemistry laws. We further validated the mathematical model by comparing our computational results with experimental results reported in the literature. By applying Lyaponuv stability analysis, the established mathematical model demonstrated global stability in homeostasis situation and bounded response to myocardial infarction.

Conclusions

We have established and validated a mathematical model for macrophage activation post-MI. The stability analysis provided a possible strategy to intervene the balance of classically and alternatively activated macrophages in this study. The results will lay a strong foundation to understand the mechanisms of left ventricular remodelling post-MI.
Dengue hemorrhagic fever and severe thrombocytopenia in a patient on mandatory anticoagulation; balancing two life threatening conditions; a case report
Authors: Gamakaranage Champika , Rodrigo Chaturaka , Samarawickrama Sincy , Wijayaratne Dilushi , Jayawardane Malaka , Karunanayake Panduka , Jayasinghe Saroj
Published: October 2012

Background

Managing a severe dengue infection is a challenge specially when complicated by other comorbidities. We report a patient with dengue haemorrhagic fever and spontaneous bleeding who required mandatory anticoagulation for a prosthetic mitral valve replacement. This is the first case report in published literature describing this therapeutic dilemma.

Case presentation

A fifty one year old Sri Lankan woman was diagnosed with dengue haemorrhagic fever with bleeding manifestations. During the critical phase of her illness, the platelet count dropped to 5,000/ɥl. She was also on warfarin 7 mg daily following a prosthetic mitral valve insertion. In managing the patient, the risk of bleeding had to be balanced against the risk of valve thrombosis without anticoagulation. Warfarin was withheld when the platelet count dropped to 100,000/ɥl and restarted when it recovered above 50,000/ɥl. The patient was off anticoagulation for 10 days.

Conclusions

We managed this patient with close observation and continuous risk benefit assessments of management decisions. However, experience with one patient cannot be generalized to others. Therefore, it is essential that clinicians share their experiences in managing such difficult patients.
Hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy of limited brain metastases: a single-centre individualized treatment approach
Authors: Märtens Bettina , Janssen Stefan , Werner Martin , Frühauf Jörg , Christiansen Hans , Bremer Michael , Steinmann Diana
Published: October 2012

Background

We retrospectively report treatment results of our single-centre experience with hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (hfSRT) of limited brain metastases in primary and recurrence disease situations. Our aim was to find the most effective and safe dose concept.

Methods

From 04/2006 to 12/2010, 75 patients, with 108 intracranial metastases, were treated with hfSRT. 52 newly diagnosed metastases (48%), without up-front whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT), received hfSRT as a primary treatment. 56 metastases (52%) received a prior WBRT and were treated in this study in a recurrence situation. Main fractionation concepts used for primary hfSRT were 6-7x5 Gy (61.5%) and 5x6 Gy (19.2%), for recurrent hfSRT 7-10x4 Gy (33.9%) and 5-6x5 Gy (33.9%).

Results

Median overall survival (OS) of all patients summed up to 9.1 months, actuarial 6-and 12-month-OS was 59% and 35%, respectively. Median local brain control (LC) was 11.9 months, median distant brain control (DC) 3.9 months and intracranial control (IC) 3.4 months, respectively. Variables with significant influence on OS were Gross Tumour Volume (GTV) (p = 0.019), the biological eqivalent dose (calculated on a 2 Gy single dose, EQD2, α/β = 10) < and ≥ median of 39 Gy (p = 0.012), extracerebral activity of the primary tumour (p < 0.001) and the steroid uptake during hfSRT (p = 0.03). LC was significantly influenced by the EQD2, ≤ and > 35 Gy (p = 0.004) in both uni- and multivariate Cox regression analysis. Median LC was 14.9 months for EQD2 >35 Gy and 3.4 months for doses ≤35 Gy, respectively. Early treatment related side effects were usually mild. Nevertheless, patients with a EQD2 >35 Gy had higher rates of toxicity (31%) than ≤35 Gy (8.3%, p=0.026).

Conclusion

Comparing different dose concepts in hfSRT, a cumulative EQD2 of ≥35 Gy seems to be the most effective concept in patients with primary or recurrent limited brain metastases. Despite higher rates of only mild toxicity, this concept represents a safe treatment option.
Substrate cycles in Penicillium chrysogenum quantified by isotopic non-stationary flux analysis
Authors: Zhao Zheng , ten Pierick Angela , de Jonge Lodewijk , Heijnen Joseph J , Wahl S Aljoscha
Published: October 2012

Background

Penicillium chrysogenum, the main production strain for penicillin-G, has a high content of intracellular carbohydrates, especially reduced sugars such as mannitol, arabitol, erythritol, as well as trehalose and glycogen. In previous steady state13C wash-in experiments a delay of labeling enrichments in glycolytic intermediates was observed, which suggests turnover of storage carbohydrates. The turnover of storage pools consumes ATP which is expected to reduce the product yield for energy demanding production pathways like penicillin-G.

Results

In this study, a13C labeling wash-in experiment of 1 hour was performed to systematically quantify the intracellular flux distribution including eight substrate cycles. The experiments were performed using a mixed carbon source of 85% CmolGlc/CmolGlc+EtOHlabeled glucose (mixture of 90% [1-13C1] and 10% [U-13C6]) and 15% ethanol [U-13C2]. It was found, that (1) also several extracellular pools are enriched with13C labeling rapidly (trehalose, mannitol, and others), (2) the intra- to extracellular metabolite concentration ratios were comparable for a large set of metabolites while for some carbohydrates (mannitol, trehalose, and glucose) the measured ratios were much higher.

Conclusions

The fast enrichment of several extracellular carbohydrates and a concentration ratio higher than the ratio expected from cell lysis (2%) indicate active (e.g. ATP consuming) transport cycles over the cellular membrane. The flux estimation indicates, that substrate cycles account for about 52% of the gap in the ATP balance based on metabolic flux analysis.
Spin injection in n-type resonant tunneling diodes
Authors: Orsi Gordo Vanessa , Herval Leonilson KS , Galeti Helder VA , Gobato Yara Galvão , Brasil Maria JSP , Marques Gilmar E , Henini Mohamed , Airey Robert J
Published: October 2012

We have studied the polarized resolved photoluminescence of n-type GaAs/AlAs/GaAlAs resonant tunneling diodes under magnetic field parallel to the tunnel current. Under resonant tunneling conditions, we have observed two emission lines attributed to neutral (X) and negatively charged excitons (X−). We have observed a voltage-controlled circular polarization degree from the quantum well emission for both lines, with values up to −88% at 15 T at low voltages which are ascribed to an efficient spin injection from the 2D gases formed at the accumulation layers.
Self-adapting root-MUSIC algorithm and its real-valued formulation for acoustic vector sensor array
Authors: Wang Peng , Zhang Guo-jun , Xue Chen-yang , Zhang Wen-dong , Xiong Ji-jun
Published: October 2012

In this paper, based on the root-MUSIC algorithm for acoustic pressure sensor array, a new self-adapting root-MUSIC algorithm for acoustic vector sensor array is proposed by self-adaptive selecting the lead orientation vector, and its real-valued formulation by Forward-Backward(FB) smoothing and real-valued inverse covariance matrix is also proposed, which can reduce the computational complexity and distinguish the coherent signals. The simulation experiment results show the better performance of two new algorithm with low Signal-to-Noise (SNR) in direction of arrival (DOA) estimation than traditional MUSIC algorithm, and the experiment results using MEMS vector hydrophone array in lake trails show the engineering practicability of two new algorithms.
Preclinical Alzheimer disease: identification of cases at risk among cognitively intact older individuals
Authors: Lazarczyk Maciej J , Hof Patrick R , Bouras Constantin , Giannakopoulos Panteleimon
Published: October 2012

Since the first description of the case of Auguste Deter, presented in Tübingen in 1906 by Alois Alzheimer, there has been an exponential increase in our knowledge of the neuropathological, cellular, and molecular foundation of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The concept of AD pathogenesis has evolved from a static, binary view discriminating cognitive normality from dementia, towards a dynamic view that considers AD pathology as a long-lasting morbid process that takes place progressively over years, or even decades, before the first symptoms become apparent, and thus operating in a continuum between the two aforementioned extreme states. Several biomarkers have been proposed to predict AD-related cognitive decline, initially in cases with mild cognitive impairment, and more recently in cognitively intact individuals. These early markers define at-risk individuals thought to be in the preclinical phase of AD. However, the clinical relevance of this preclinical phase remains controversial. The fate of such individuals, who are cognitively intact, but positive for some early AD biomarkers, is currently uncertain at best. In this report, we advocate the point of view that although most of these preclinical cases will evolve to clinically overt AD, some appear to have efficient compensatory mechanisms and virtually never develop dementia. We critically review the currently available early AD markers, discuss their clinical relevance, and propose a novel classification of preclinical AD, designating these non-progressing cases as 'stable asymptomatic cerebral amyloidosis'.
The placental analogue and the pattern of sexual reproduction in the cheilostome bryozoan Bicellariella ciliata (Gymnolaemata)
Authors: Moosbrugger Martin , Schwaha Thomas , Walzl Manfred G , Obst Matthias , Ostrovsky Andrew N
Published: October 2012

Background

Matrotrophy or extraembryonic nutrition – transfer of nutrients from mother to embryo during gestation – is well known and thoroughly studied among vertebrates, but still poorly understood in invertebrates. The current paper focuses on the anatomy and ultrastructure of the oogenesis and placentotrophy as well as formation of the brood chamber (ovicell) in the cheilostome bryozoanBicellariella ciliata(Linnaeus, 1758). Our research aimed to combine these aspects of the sexual reproduction into an integral picture, highlighting the role of the primitive placenta-like system in the evolution of bryozoan reproductive patterns.

Results

Follicular and nutrimentary provisioning of the oocyte occur during oogenesis. Small macrolecithal oocytes are produced, and embryos are nourished in the ovicell via a simple placental analogue (embryophore). Every brooding episode is accompanied by the hypertrophy of the embryophore, which collapses after larval release. Nutrients are released and uptaken by exocytosis (embryophore) and endocytosis (embryo). Embryos lack specialized area for nutrient uptake, which occurs through the whole epidermal surface. The volume increase between the ripe oocyte and the larva is ca. 10-fold.

Conclusions

The ovicell is a complex organ (not a special polymorph as often thought) consisting of an ooecium (protective capsule) and an ooecial vesicle (plugging the entrance to the brooding cavity) that develop from the distal and the fertile zooid correspondingly. Combination of macrolecithal oogenesis and extraembryonic nutrition allows attributingB. ciliatato species with reproductive pattern IV. However, since its oocytes are small, this species represents a previously undescribed variant of this pattern, which appears to represent a transitional state from the insipient matrotrophy (with large macrolecithal eggs) to substantial one (with small microlecithal ones). Altogether, our results substantially added and corrected the data obtained by the previous authors, providing a new insight in our understanding of the evolution of matrotrophy in invertebrates.
Proton therapy versus photon radiation therapy for the management of a recurrent desmoid tumor of the right flank: a case report
Authors: Kil Whoon Jong , Nichols R Charles , Kilkenny John W , Huh Soon Y , Ho Meng Wei , Gupta Pratibha , Marcus Robert B , Indelicato Daniel J
Published: October 2012

Desmoid tumors are benign mesenchymal tumors with a strong tendency for local recurrence after surgery. Radiotherapy improves local control following incomplete resection, but nearby organs at risk may limit the dose to the target volume. The patient in this report presented with a recurrent desmoid tumor of the right flank and underwent surgery with microscopically positive margins. Particular problems presented in this case included that the tumor bed was situated in close proximity to the liver and the right kidney and that the right kidney was responsible for 65% of the patient’s renal function. Intensity-modulated radiation therapy plans delivering 54 Gy necessarily exposed the right kidney to a V18 of 98% and the liver to a V30 of 55%. Proton therapy plans significantly reduced the right kidney V18 to 32% and the liver V30 to 28%. In light of this, the proton plan was utilized for treatment of this patient. Proton therapy was tolerated without gastrointestinal discomfort or other complaints. Twenty-four months after initiation of proton therapy, the patient is without clinical or radiographic evidence of disease recurrence. In this setting, the improved dose distribution associated with proton therapy allowed for curative treatment of a patient who arguably could not have been safely treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy or other methods of conventional radiotherapy.
Design of optimal solvent for extraction of bio–active ingredients from six varieties of Medicago sativa
Authors: Caunii Angela , Pribac George , Grozea Ioana , Gaitin Dorin , Samfira Ionel
Published: October 2012

Background

Extensive research has been performed worldwide and important evidences were collected to show the immense potential of plants used in various traditional therapeutic systems. The aim of this work is to investigate the different extracting solvents in terms of the influence of their polarity on the extracting ability of bioactive molecules (phenolic compounds) from the M. sativa flowers.

Results

The total phenolic content of samples was determined using the Folin Ciocalteu (FC) procedure and their antioxidant activity was assayed through in vitro radical decomposing activity using the radical DPPH° assay (IUPAC name for DPPH is (phenyl)–(2,4,6–trinitrophenyl) iminoazanium). The results showed that water was better than methanol and acetic acid for extracting bioactive compounds, in particular for total phenolic compounds from the flowers of alfalfa. The average content of bioactive molecules in methanol extract was 263.5±1.02 mg GAE/100g of dry weight lyophilized extract. The total phenolic content of the tested plant extracts was highly correlated with the radical decomposing activity. However, all extracts were free–radical inhibitors, but the water extract was more potent than the acetic and the methanol ones. The order of inhibitor effectiveness (expressed by IC50) proved to be: water extract (0.924mg/mL) > acetic acid extract (0.154mg/mL) > methanol (0.079mg/mL). The profiles of each extract (fingerprint) were characterized by FT–MIR spectroscopy.

Conclusions

The present study compares the fingerprint of different extracts of the M. sativa flowers, collected from the wild flora of Romania. The total phenolic content of the tested plant extracts was highly correlated with the radical decomposing activity. The dependence of the extract composition on the solvent polarity (acetic acid vs. methanol vs. water) was revealed by UV–VIS spectrometry and Infrared fingerprint.
Multimodality cardiac imaging of a ventricular septal rupture post myocardial infarction: a case report
Authors: Dhaliwal Surinder , Ducas Robin , Shuangbo Liu , Horne David , Lee John , Hussain Farrukh , Kirkpatrick Iain DC , Jassal Davinder S
Published: October 2012

Background

Ventricular septal rupture (VSR), a mechanical complication following an acute myocardial infarction (MI), is thought to result from coagulation necrosis due to lack of collateral reperfusion. Although the gold standard test to confirm left-to-right shunting between ventricular cavities remains invasive ventriculography, two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with color flow Doppler and cardiac MRI (CMR) are reliable tests for the non-invasive diagnosis of VSR.

Case presentation

A 62-year-old Caucasian female presented with a late case of a VSR post inferior MI diagnosed by multimodality cardiac imaging including TTE, CMR and ventriculography.

Conclusion

We review the presentation, diagnosis and management of VSR post MI.
Eating lizards: a millenary habit evidenced by Paleoparasitology
Authors: Sianto Luciana , Teixeira-Santos Isabel , Chame Marcia , Chaves Sergio M , Souza Sheila M , Ferreira Luiz Fernando , Reinhard Karl , Araujo Adauto
Published: October 2012

Background

Analyses of coprolites have contributed to the knowledge of diet as well as infectious diseases in ancient populations. Results of paleoparasitological studies showed that prehistoric groups were exposed to spurious and zoonotic parasites, especially food-related. Here we report the findings of a paleoparasitological study carried out in remote regions of Brazil’s Northeast.

Findings

Eggs of Pharyngodonidae (Nematoda, Oxyuroidea), a family of parasites of lizards and amphibians, were found in four human coprolites collected from three archaeological sites. In one of these, lizard scales were also found.

Conclusions

Through the finding of eggs of Pharyngodonidae in human coprolites and reptile

scales in one of these, we have provided evidence that humans have consumed reptiles at least 10,000 years ago. This food habit persists to modern times in remote regions of Brazil’s Northeast. Although Pharyngodonidae species are not known to infect humans, the consumption of raw or undercooked meat from lizards and other reptiles may have led to transmission of a wide range of zoonotic agents to humans in the past.
The existence and uniqueness of solutions to boundary value problems of fractional difference equations
Authors: Pan Yuanyuan , Han Zhenlai , Sun Shurong , Huang Zhiqing
Published: October 2012

In this paper, we study the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the boundary value problem

−

Δ

ν
−
μ

ν

y
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=
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(
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,

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is a given function. We give a representation for the solution to this problem, and we prove the existence and uniqueness of solution to this problem by contraction mapping theorem and Brouwer theorem.
Changes in pain catastrophizing predict later changes in fibromyalgia clinical and experimental pain report: cross-lagged panel analyses of dispositional and situational catastrophizing
Authors: Campbell Claudia M , McCauley Lea , Bounds Sara C , Mathur Vani A , Conn Lora , Simango Mpepera , Edwards Robert R , Fontaine Kevin R
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Fibromyalgia (FM), characterized by wide-spread diffuse pain and sensory abnormalities, is associated with elevated indices of distress and pain-related catastrophizing compared to both pain-free samples and those with chronic pain conditions. Catastrophizing is a pervasive negative mental set, and is a strong predictor of negative pain-related outcomes such as clinical pain intensity, and physical disability. Situational catastrophizing, measured in the context of experimentally-induced pain, is strongly related to enhanced pain sensitivity, a core aspect of the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia. However, little is known regarding the temporal course of the association between catastrophizing and pain-related "outcomes". Most studies involve only static assessments of pain and catastrophizing at a single time point, which provides little insight into the direction of the observed associations. We sought to investigate the temporal relationships between catastrophizing and indices of both clinical pain (substudy 1) and experimentally-induced pain (substudy 2) in a larger randomized controlled longitudinal trial.

Methods

Fifty-seven patients with FM completed catastrophizing, depression, and pain questionnaires as well as laboratory cold pressor pain testing at baseline, post-intervention and three month follow-up during a lifestyle physical activity study. Cross-lagged panel analyses were used to address these temporal relationships.

Results

In substudy 1, analyses revealed that pre-to-post changes in dispositional catastrophizing ratings prospectively accounted for unique variance in subsequent post-to-follow-up changes in clinical pain ratings (p = 0.005), while pre-to-post changes in pain ratings did not account for unique variance in post-to-follow-up changes in catastrophizing ratings. An identical pattern was observed experimentally in substudy 2, with pre-to-post changes in situational catastrophizing ratings prospectively accounting for unique variance in subsequent post-to-follow-up changes in experimental pain ratings (p = 0.014), while pre-to-post changes in pain ratings did not account for unique variance in post-to-follow-up changes in catastrophizing ratings. Specifically, initial alterations in catastrophizing were associated with subsequent alterations in clinical and experimentally induced pain. Controlling for levels of depression did not affect the results.

Conclusions

These findings provide empirical evidence that catastrophizing processes might precede and contribute to subsequent alterations in the pain experience for FM patients.

Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00383084.
Empirical use of fluoroquinolones improves the survival of critically ill patients with tuberculosis mimicking severe pneumonia
Authors: Tseng Yu-Tzu , Chuang Yu-Chung , Shu Chin-Chung , Hung Chien-Ching , Hsu Chiung-Fang , Wang Jann-Yuan
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Empirical use of fluoroquinolones may delay the initiation of appropriate therapy for tuberculosis (TB). This study aimed to evaluate the impact of empirical fluoroquinolone use on the survival of patients with pulmonary TB that mimicked severe community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) requiring intensive care.

Methods

Patients aged >18 years with culture-confirmed pulmonary TB who presented as severe CAP and were admitted to the ICU were divided into fluoroquinolone (FQ) and nonfluoroquinolone (non-FQ) groups based on the type of empirical antibiotics used. Those patients with previous anti-TB treatment or those who died within 3 days of hospitalization were excluded. The primary end point was 100-day survival.

Results

Of the 77 patients identified, 43 (56%) were in the FQ group and 34 (44%) were in the non-FQ group. The two groups had no statistically significant difference in co-morbidities (95% vs. 97%, P > 0.99) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores (21.2 ± 7.1 vs. 22.5 ± 7.5, P = 0.46) on ICU admission. Overall, 91% and 82% of patients in the FQ and non-FQ groups, respectively, had sputum examinations for TB within 1 week of admission (P = 0.46), and results were positive in 7% and 15% (P = 0.47), respectively. For both groups, 29% received appropriate anti-TB therapy within 2 weeks after ICU admission. The 100-day mortality rate was 40% and 68% for the FQ and non-FQ groups, respectively (P = 0.02). By Cox regression analysis, APACHE score <20, no bacteremia during the ICU stay, and empirical fluoroquinolone use were independently associated with survival.

Conclusion

Empirical use of fluoroquinolones may improve the survival of ICU patients admitted for pulmonary TB mimicking severe CAP.
A Robust Method for Assessing 3-D Topographic Site Effects: A Case Study at the LSBB Underground Laboratory, France
Authors: Maufroy Emeline , Cruz-Atienza Víctor M. , Gaffet Stéphane
Published: October 2012

By means of three-dimensional (3-D) numerical simulations, including the Laboratoire Souterrain à Bas-Bruit (LSBB) topography, we carefully analyze site effects assessments yielded by two approaches: the classical site to reference spectral-ratio method (SRM) and the statistical median reference method (MRM). We show for both isotropic and double-couple point sources that a 94% reduction in the number of stations of a regularly spaced array yields MRM site-effect estimates within 5% of those obtained from the absolute regional median, and within 20% using a 98% station reduction with irregularly located sites. In contrast, the SRM yielded site-effect overestimates greater than 50% in some areas and up to 100% in specific sites, which makes the MRM much more robust than the SRM. We determined a 33% probability to exceed an amplification factor of 2, and an 8% probability to exceed a factor of 3 due to topography in the surroundings of the sharpest summit of the LSBB area.
In-Plane Behavior of the Dhajji-Dewari Structural System (Wooden Braced Frame with Masonry Infill)
Authors: Ali Qaisar , Schacher Tom , Ashraf Mohammad , Alam Bashir , Naeem Akhtar , Ahmad Naveed , Umar Muhammad
Published: October 2012

This paper presents experimental and numerical investigations conducted on typical dhajji buildings found in the northern mountainous areas of Kashmir and surrounding regions to evaluate their in-plane lateral load response. The experimental work included an in-plane quasistatic cyclic test on three full-scale walls as well as monotonic tension and bend tests on main connections. The test results show that the dhajji-dewari system of buildings possesses tremendous resilience against lateral forces. The function of connections, especially the connections between the vertical posts and bottom plate, control the performance of the system. The test results also indicate that although masonry infill does not contribute to lateral load capacity, it significantly increases the energy dissipation capacity of system. The data accrued from the tests has been used in nonlinear static push-over analysis of the numerical models to develop simplified analytical tools for facilitating lateral load performance evaluation of dhajji structures.
Site Effects in Structural Response Predictions of Inelastic SDOF Oscillators
Authors: Assimaki Dominic , Li Wei , Fragiadakis Michalis
Published: October 2012

We study how the inelastic structural response predicted via synthetic seismograms is affected by the selection of site response models in ground motion simulations. We first generate synthetics for multiple scenarios and site conditions in Southern California using attenuation relations, site specific linear, vis-coelastic and nonlinear analyses, and estimate the ground motion variability that results from the soil model selection. We next use bilinear single degree-of-freedom oscillators to demonstrate how this variability propagates to the inelastic structural response predictions. Results show high bias and scatter of the inelastic displacement ratio predicted using the empirical and linear elastic site response models relative to the nonlinear, for periods close to the fundamental period of the site. For the synthetic motions and sites used, we derive empirical correlations between the amount of bias and period range where it manifests, and selected input motion and site parameters.
A Comparative Study of Design Base Shear for RC Buildings in Selected Seismic Design Codes
Authors: Khose Vijay Namdev , Singh Yogendra , Lang Dominik H.
Published: October 2012

Modern seismic building design codes tend to converge on issues of design methodology and the state-of-the-art. However, significant differences exist in basic provisions of various codes. This paper compares important provisions related to the seismic design of RC buildings in some of the major national seismic building codes viz. ASCE 7, Eurocode 8, NZS 1170.5, and IS 1893. Code provisions regarding the specification of hazard, site classification, design response spectrum, ductility classification, response reduction factors, and minimum design base shear are compared and their cumulative effect on design base shear is studied. The objective component of overstrength contributed by the material and load factors is considered to normalize the design base shear. It is observed that every code has merit over the other codes in some aspect. The presented discussion highlights the major areas of differences which need attention in the process of harmonization of different codes of the world.
Seismic Design Factors for Steel Moment Frames with Masonry Infills: Part 1
Authors: Ravichandran Shiv Shanker , Klingner Richard E.
Published: October 2012

In this two-part work, seismic behavior and design of steel moment frames with masonry infills are investigated systematically. In this first part, the “infill strength ratio” (the ratio of the story shear strength of infills to the story shear strength of the bare frame) is shown to have a fundamental effect on the seismic behavior of an infilled frame. This fundamental effect is demonstrated using pushover analysis of an example steel moment frame with masonry infills in uniformly infilled and open ground story configurations. In general, infill strength ratios greater than about 0.35 are associated with progressive deterioration of seismic performance, leading to story mechanisms concentrated in the lower stories. Greater infill strength ratios can also lead to local shear failures in frame members.
On the Nature of Logic Trees in Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment
Authors: Musson Roger
Published: October 2012

An objection sometimes made against treating the weights of logic tree branches as probabilities relates to the Kolmogorov axioms, but these are only an obstacle if one believes that logic tree branches represent a seismic source model or ground motion model as being “true.” Models are never true, but some models are better than others. It is argued here that a logic tree weight represents the probability that the model in question is better than the others considered. Only one branch can be the best one, and one branch must be the best one. It is also argued that there are situations in PSHA where uncertainty exists but the analyst lacks the means to express it. Therefore it is not necessarily the case that more information increases uncertainty; it may be that more information increases the possibility of expressing uncertainty that was previously unmanageable.
Quasi-Static Cyclic Tests on Masonry Spandrels
Authors: Beyer Katrin , Dazio Alessandro
Published: October 2012

This paper presents the results of an experimental campaign on masonry spandrels. Within this campaign, four masonry spandrels were subjected to quasi-static cyclic loading. Two different spandrel configurations were tested. The first configuration comprised a masonry spandrel with a timber lintel, and the second configuration, a masonry spandrel on a shallow masonry arch. For each configuration, two specimens were tested. The first was tested with a constant axial load in the spandrel, while for the second specimen, the axial load in the spandrel depended on the axial elongation of the spandrel. This paper summarizes the properties of the four test units, the test setup, and the most important results from the experiments, documenting the failure mechanisms that developed and the force-deformation hysteresis of the spandrel elements. The paper also presents a mechanical model for estimating the peak strength of masonry spandrels.
Rapid Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Low- to Mid-Rise Reinforced Concrete Buildings Using Bingöl's Regional Data
Authors: Özhendekci Nuri , Özhendekci Devrim
Published: October 2012

A methodology based on multiple linear regression analysis is used for rapid vulnerability assessment of a building set surveyed in the disaster area of the 1 May 2003 Bingöl, Turkey, earthquake. The data set represents the population of low- to mid-rise reinforced concrete buildings in Bingöl. In addition to the relevant statistical procedures for parameter selection, all possible regressions of selected building parameters are carried out, and the most appropriate regression function is determined. Structural system type, newly introduced span index, priority index, existence of captive columns, and soft story index are found to play the dominant role. A leave-one-out cross validation method is utilized to test the reliability of derived regression function. The data collected during 1999 Düzce earthquake is also used for testing. The correct classification rate for both calibration and test data is found to be near 90%, despite an acceptable increase in incorrect classification rate.
How Many Records Should be used in an ASCE/SEI-7 Ground Motion Scaling Procedure?
Authors: Reyes Juan C. , Kalkan Erol
Published: October 2012

U.S. national building codes refer to the ASCE/SEI-7 provisions for selecting and scaling ground motions for use in nonlinear response history analysis of structures. Because the limiting values for the number of records in the ASCE/SEI-7 are based on engineering experience, this study examines the required number of records statistically, such that the scaled records provide accurate, efficient, and consistent estimates of “true” structural responses. Based on elastic–perfectly plastic and bilinear single-degree-of-freedom systems, the ASCE/SEI-7 scaling procedure is applied to 480 sets of ground motions; the number of records in these sets varies from three to ten. As compared to benchmark responses, it is demonstrated that the ASCE/SEI-7 scaling procedure is conservative if fewer than seven ground motions are employed. Utilizing seven or more randomly selected records provides more accurate estimate of the responses. Selecting records based on their spectral shape and design spectral acceleration increases the accuracy and efficiency of the procedure.
Modal Pushover-Based Scaling of Two Components of Ground Motion Records for Nonlinear RHA of Structures
Authors: Reyes Juan C. , Chopra Anil K.
Published: October 2012

The modal-pushover-based-scaling (MPS) procedure, currently restricted to scale one component of ground motion records, is extended herein to scale two horizontal components. The accuracy and efficiency of the MPS procedure is evaluated here by applying it to an existing nine-story building, symmetric in plan. The computer model developed for the building is validated against motions of the building recorded during the Chino Hills earthquake (2008). It is demonstrated that nonlinear response history analysis (RHA) of the building for a small set of records scaled by the MPS procedure provided a highly accurate estimate of the engineering demand parameters (EDPs), accompanied by significantly reduced record-to-record variability of the responses. Furthermore, the MPS procedure is shown to be much superior to the procedure specified in the ASCE/SEI 7-05 standard for scaling two components of ground motion records.
A Comparative Study on the Seismic Performance of Superelastic-Friction Base Isolators against Near-Field Earthquakes
Authors: Ozbulut Osman E. , Hurlebaus Stefan
Published: October 2012

This paper presents a comparative seismic performance assessment of super-elastic-friction base isolator (S-FBI) systems in improving the response of bridges under near-field earthquakes. The S-FBI system consists of a steel-Teflon sliding bearing and a superelastic shape memory alloy (SMA) device. The other isolation systems considered here are lead rubber bearing (LRB), friction pendulum system (FPS), and resilient-friction base isolator (R-FBI). Each isolation system is designed to provide the same isolation period and characteristic strength. Nonlinear time-history analyses of an isolated bridge are performed to compare the performance of various isolation systems. The results indicate that the S-FBI system shows superior performance in reducing deck displacement response and effectively limits permanent bearing deformation, whereas residual deformations are present for the other isolation systems in some cases. It is also observed that the LRB system has the largest deck drifts while the FPS system and R-FBI system produce the smallest peak deck acceleration and base shear.
ASCONA: Automated Selection of COmpatible Natural Accelerograms
Authors: Corigliano Mirko , Lai Carlo G. , Rota Maria , Strobbia Claudio L.
Published: October 2012

This paper describes an automated procedure for selecting and scaling real spectrum-compatible records. The methodology allows one to choose from a predefined database, assembled from accredited strong-motion accelerometric data banks, real records satisfying properly defined seismological constraints with the additional requirement of spectrum-compatibility with a reference spectrum in a specified period range. Among the different sets of records satisfying these constraints, the user can specify the desired one, based on additional requirements (e.g., limited scaling factors). The proposed algorithm allows one to select records compatible with either an acceleration or a displacement response spectrum.
Superimposition of Postnatal Calorie Restriction Protects the Aging Male Intrauterine Growth- Restricted Offspring from Metabolic Maladaptations
Authors: Dai Yun , Thamotharan Shanthie , Garg Meena , Shin Bo-Chul , Devaskar Sherin U.
Published: October 2012

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) results in dysregulated glucose homeostasis and adiposity in the adult. We hypothesized that with aging, these perturbations will wane, and superimposition of postnatal growth restriction (PNGR) on IUGR [intrauterine and postnatal growth restriction (IPGR)] will reverse the residual IUGR phenotype. We therefore undertook hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp, energy balance, and physical activity studies during fed, fasted, and refed states, in light and dark cycles, on postweaned chow diet-fed more than 17-month aging male IUGR, PNGR, and IPGR vs. control (CON) rat offspring. Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp revealed similar whole-body insulin sensitivity and physical activity in the nonobese IUGR vs. CON, despite reduced heat production and energy expenditure. Compared with CON and IUGR, IPGR mimicking PNGR was lean and growth restricted with increased physical activity, O2 consumption (VO2), energy intake, and expenditure. Although insulin sensitivity was no different in IPGR and PNGR, skeletal muscle insulin-induced glucose uptake was enhanced. This presentation proved protective against the chronologically earlier (5.5 months) development of obesity and dysregulated energy homeostasis after 19 wk on a postweaned high-fat diet. This protective role of PNGR on the metabolic IUGR phenotype needs future fine tuning aimed at minimizing unintended consequences.
Axonal transport of neural membrane protein 35 mRNA increases axon growth
Authors: Merianda Tanuja T. , Vuppalanchi Deepika , Yoo Soonmoon , Blesch Armin , Twiss Jeffery L.
Published: October 2012

Many neuronal mRNAs are transported from cell bodies into axons and dendrites. Localized translation of the mRNAs brings autonomy to these processes that can be vast distances from the cell body. For axons, these translational responses have been linked to growth and injury signaling, but there has been little information about local function of individual axonally synthesized proteins. In the present study, we show that axonal injury increases levels of the mRNA encoding neural membrane protein 35 (NMP35) in axons, with a commensurate decrease in the cell body levels of NMP35 mRNA. The 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of NMP35 is responsible for this localization into axons. Previous studies have shown that NMP35 protein supports cell survival by inhibiting Fas-ligand-mediated apoptosis; however, these investigations did not distinguish functions of the locally generated NMP35 protein. Using axonally targeted versus cell-body-restricted NMP35 constructs, we show that NMP35 supports axonal growth, and overexpression of an axonally targeted NMP35 mRNA is sufficient to increase axonal outgrowth.