bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic review with meta-analysis: the common sonographic characteristics of adenomyosis
Authors: Dartmouth Katherine
Published: March 2014

Adenomyosis is a common debilitating gynaecological disease. Transvaginal sonography (TVS) has been shown to be capable of diagnosing adenomyosis with an acceptable degree of accuracy. However, the reported appearances of adenomyosis on TVS are numerous and there is no consensus in the literature as to which image characteristics are unequivocally diagnostic; clarification would assist the sonographer in confidently providing a diagnosis. Following a thorough search of the electronic databases Embase and Medline, nine articles assessing the diagnostic accuracy of the sonographic features of adenomyosis on TVS against a gold standard reference test (histology post hysterectomy), using sensitivity and specificity, were selected for inclusion. The methodological quality of each of the nine included articles was assessed using a valid and reliable checklist tool. Four articles were considered suitable for inclusion in meta-analysis, which was facilitated by Meta-DiSc (Clinical Biostatistics Unit, Ramón y Cajal Hospital, Madrid, Spain). Meta-analysis showed that the heterogeneity between the studies was too great to allow statistical pooling of data. There was a wide between-study variation in the proficiency of six well-documented ultrasound characteristics of adenomyosis to correctly identify the disease, despite an apparent similarity in the studies’ populations, interventions and outcomes. This systematic review has been unable to draw a concise conclusion about which ultrasound image characteristics are most reliable in the correct diagnosis of adenomyosis. Further research is required into the sonographic features of adenomyosis with much larger study groups to attempt to establish those features that could enhance the reliability of ultrasound image interpretation.
Fatigue reliability evaluation of structural components under random loadings
Authors: Cheng Hongwei , Tao Junyong , Chen Xun , Jiang Yu
Published: March 2014

An efficient method for time-dependent fatigue reliability assessment of mechanical components under random loadings is proposed. Normally, fatigue damage induced by random loading is high-cycle fatigue problem. The randomness of high-cycle fatigue damage is treated in two aspects. The first one is the uncertainty quantification from the external random loading. The second one is the uncertainty quantification of the fatigue property of the structural component. The former is characterized by Gaussian distribution derived from the rainflow cycle distribution, median stress-life ( S- N) curve, and the linear damage accumulation rule. The latter is described with the probabilistic stress-life ( P- S- N) curve based on log-normal distribution. The proposed method has colligated these two aspects together to evaluate the expectation and confidence interval of fatigue reliability. Finally, a numerical example is provided to verify the effectiveness of the developed approach. A comparison with bootstrap method is also carried out. The comparative result has shown rational accuracy of the proposed method.
Adjunctive drug therapies for treatment of respiratory diseases in the newborn: based on evidence or habit?
Authors: Sinha Sunil , Tin Win
Published: March 2014

Respiratory distress syndrome is a disease of prematurity and is caused by a relative deficiency of endogenous surfactant production. Respiratory distress syndrome is the most common cause of mortality and morbidity in the newborn population and the standard of care is to provide exogenous surfactant therapy. This saves lives and reduces respiratory complications but, despite treatment, a significant proportion of these infants go onto develop chronic lung disease, the severest form of which is bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Once developed, this is a multisystem disease and treatment is mostly supportive by using various therapeutic adjuncts. Some of these have been proven to be safe and effective in large randomized, controlled trials but similar evidence for other drugs is lacking. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview and critically appraise the available scientific evidence for or against their use in routine practice.
Gastrointestinal polypoid lesions: a poorly known endoscopic feature of portal hypertension
Authors: Lemmers Arnaud , Evrard Sylvie , Demetter Pieter , Verset Gontran , Gossum Andre Van , Adler Michael , Devière Jacques , Moine Olivier Le
Published: March 2014

Aim

To describe a poorly known endoscopic entity associated with portal hypertension, characterized by polypoid lesions either in the stomach or small intestine of patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

Between 2003 and 2012, patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension underwent endoscopic workup of portal hypertension in our endoscopy unit. The clinical expression, endoscopic features of these lesions, and their pathological characteristics are described.

Results

A total of 1538 patients were included, among which 14 (0.9%) presented polypoid lesions; these patients had evidence of portal hypertension and had dilated capillaries in the lamina propria. Four patients presented with severe anaemia or melaena and required treatment. Propranolol was administered to three patients, and one patient needed a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in order to control bleeding. For asymptomatic patients in whom polypoid lesions were resected, no recurrence of lesions was observed during follow‐up gastroscopy (median 36 months, range 7–85 months).

Conclusion

Portal hypertension‐associated gastric or small intestine polypoid lesions may be associated with a significant risk of bleeding and are responsive to adequate treatment of portal hypertension.
Be Faithful to the Covenant: A Technical Translation of and Commentary on Malachi 2.10-16
Authors: Ko Ming Him
Published: March 2014

This article offers a technical and text-critical interpretation of Mal 2.10-16. This text is textually and syntactically difficult because of the ambiguity of the Hebrew that leads to the complexity of various textual judgments. This complexity further leads to contrasting views of whether the “covenant” refers to marriage or not. This article thus gives a detailed technical commentary on Mal 2.10-16, arguing that the “covenant” refers to both marriage and the covenant of the fathers.
A Millennium Translation Based on the Geʿez and LXX: A New Bible Translation in the Ethiopian Church and Its Controversy
Authors: Asale Bruk A.
Published: March 2014

Being one of the earliest Christian churches, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) collection of Scriptures is the largest, though without a clear-cut canon. Following its unique calendar, the EOTC published its first Amharic Bible ever for the Ethiopian millennium celebration in 2007. It was based on the Geʿez and the LXX versions, which resulted in a strong negative reaction from some believers in the Evangelical churches in Ethiopia. After a brief survey of the translation and transmission history of Scriptures in Ethiopia, the article discusses the process of the millennium translation, the reactions against it, and the outcomes of both the translation and its reactions.
An “Exceeding Faire” Baby in the King James Bible: A New Testament Greek Example of a Hebrew Elohim Superlative
Authors: Bell David
Published: March 2014

Stephen, in his defense recorded in Acts 7, mentions the fact that Moses’ parents hid him against the direct command of Pharaoh to kill the baby because they saw that he was “exceeding faire” (Acts 7.20, KJV). This paper discusses the origins of this novel understanding of the Greek text ἀστεῖος τῷ θεῷ (beautiful to God), which follows neither the traditional translations which were previous to the English Bible nor the various English versions which paved the way for the KJV. Rather, the translation reflects the use of the Elohim superlative of the KJV Old Testament. It is a clear example of the influence the KJV has had on subsequent English Bible translations, both in the cases of Bibles which obviously follow the KJV’s reading as well as those traditional revisions or translations which normally follow the language and style of the KJV but in this specific case do not.
Long-Term Outcome of Second-Line Antiretroviral Therapy in Resource-Limited Settings
Authors: Osinusi-Adekanmbi Olukemi , Stafford Kristen , Ukpaka Adiba , Salami Donald , Ajayi Samuel , Ndembi Nicaise , Abimiku Alash’le , Nwizu Chidi , Gilliam Bruce , Redfield Robert , Amoroso Anthony
Published: March 2014

There is limited information on efficacy and durability of second-line antiretroviral therapy (2NL) beyond 12 months in resource-limited settings. A total of 73 patients were enrolled into a prospective 2NL observational cohort in Nigeria. Second-line antiretroviral therapy consisted of lopinavir/ritonavir plus nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors. Time on 2NL ranged from 15 to 31 months. Genotypes were retrospectively done and not available to guide second-line regimen choice. At enrollment, median CD4 count was 121 cells/mm3, and median time on first-line antiretroviral therapy (1SL) was 24 months. At 6 to 9 months on 2NL, 72.6% (intention to treat [ITT]) and 88.3% (on treatment [OT]) had an undetectable viral load (UDVL). At 12 months, 65.8% (ITT) and 90.57% (OT) had UDVL. At >12 to 24 months and at >24 months, 57.5% (ITT) and 91.3% (OT) had UDVL. No statistically significant association was observed between CD4 at 2NL start, sex, genotypic sensitivity score of 2NL, or tenofovir (TDF) use in 1SL and viral suppression. Two patients developed major protease inhibitor mutations while on 2NL. We observed a high degree of viral suppression at 12 months and little loss of viral suppression thereafter.
Celiac Artery Compression Syndrome
Authors: Lynch Katherine
Published: March 2014

Celiac artery compression syndrome, also known as median arcuate ligament syndrome and Dunbar syndrome, is a rare cause of chronic mesenteric ischemia. Ischemia results from external compression of the proximal celiac artery during respiration, typically during expiration, by the median arcuate ligament just below the diaphragm. The author reviews the current literature to highlight the most common signs and symptoms, the imaging features, and the treatment options associated with celiac artery compression syndrome.
Isotropic/nematic and sol/gel transitions in aqueous suspensions of size selected nontronite NAu1
Authors: Michot L. J. , Paineau E. , Bihannic I. , Maddi S. , Duval J. F. L. , Baravian C. , Davidson P. , Levitz P.
Published: March 2014

The phase behaviour of aqueous suspensions of NAu1 nontronite was studied on size-selected particles by combining osmotic pressure measurements, visual observations under polarized light, rheological experiments and Small Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS). NAu1 suspensions display a liquid crystalline behaviour as they exhibit a Isotropic/Nematic (I/N) transition that occurs before the sol/gel transition for ionic strengths below 10–3M/L. This I/N transition shifts towards lower volume fractions for increasing particle anisotropy and its position in the phase diagram agrees well with the theoretical predictions for platelets. SAXS measurements reveal the presence of characteristic interparticular distances in the isotropic, nematic and gel phases. In the gel phase a local lamellar order is observed which shows that the “house of cards” model is not appropriate for describing the gel structure in swelling clay materials at low ionic strength. Furthermore, by combining results from osmotic pressure measurements and X-ray scattering, it appears that the pressure of the system can be well described using a simple Poisson-Boltzmann treatment based on the repulsion between charged infinite parallel planes. In terms of rheological properties, even if the thermodynamical status of the sol/gel transition remains partially unclear, the yield stress and elasticity of the gels can be easily renormalized for all particle sizes on the basis of the volume of the particles. Furthermore, rheological modelling of the flow curves shows that for all the particles an approach based on excluded volume effects captures most features of nontronite suspensions.
Iron mineralogy of a grey Oxisol from the Jequitinhonha River Basin, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Silva A. C. , Bispo F. H. A. , De Souza S. , Ardisson J. D. , Viana A. J. S. , Pereira M. C. , Costa F. R. , Murad E. , Fabris J. D.
Published: March 2014

The mineralogy of the silt fraction of a 1.5 m-deep, well developed, intensely weathered, greyish soil profile from a toposequence on a tableland covered by agricultural crops in the upper valley of the Jequitinhonha river basin, Minas Gerais, Brazil, has been studied by X-ray powder diffraction,57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy at 298 K and 80 K, and vibrating sample magnetometry. Mössbauer data collected at room temperature indicated about 17 atom% of the iron content of the sample to be structural Fe2+in phyllosilicates, which X-ray diffraction showed to be mainly halloysite and kaolinite. The magnetization curve also indicates the presence of a ferrimagnetic phase, tentatively identified by Mössbauer spectroscopy as maghemite (γ-Fe2O3).

These findings support a pedogenetic model for this soil profile, by which the remaining Fe2+bearing minerals were first formed under relatively anoxic palaeo-conditions of an intense hydric regime. Subsequent drier local conditions, due to a much improved drainage, favoured intensive weathering, leading to the presently developed Oxisol. Even under the more oxidative conditions, part of the Fe2+-containing phyllosilicates still remained in the profile, which is believed to impart the rather unusual greyish colour (Munsell 10YR 3/2) to this deep tropical soil.
Influence of the mineralogical composition on the properties of adobe blocks from Aveiro, Portugal
Authors: Costa C. S. , Rocha F. , Varum H. , Velosa A.
Published: March 2014

Earth materials have been used in the form of adobe or rammed products for the construction of load-bearing walls in buildings. In Portugal, the adobe has been used predominantly on the central coast, particularly in the Aveiro district. Although many old adobe buildings in Aveiro have been abandoned, some of them can be refurbished with minor maintenance and repair works.

Representative samples from typical adobe blocks, from various constructions in the region were collected and characterized for their mineralogical composition, particle size, aggregate content, water uptake, durability and strength. These basic properties provide a basis for the development of adequate interventions, preserving the characteristics of the buildings. This study compares the main characteristics of adobes from two different locations (Anadia and Murtosa). The most important differences between the two groups of adobes are the particle size distribution, the mineralogical composition, the water absorption and the mechanical and durability properties. The study improved the knowledge of the traditional construction methods and will enable decisions for rehabilitation of adobe buildings to be made. Knowledge of the main characteristics of adobes allows those participating in the rehabilitation process to obtain the basis for the rehabilitation and conservation of old buildings.
Lead removal from aqueous solutions by natural Greek bentonites
Authors: Bourliva A. , Michailidis K. , Sikalidis C. , Filippidis A. , Betsiou M.
Published: March 2014

Three bentonite samples (B1, B2, B3) from Milos Island, Greece, were investigated by XRD, AAS, DTA-TG, FTIR and specific surface area measurement techniques. A laboratory batch study has been performed to investigate the adsorption characteristics of lead ions (Pb2+) onto natural bentonite samples. The effect of various physicochemical factors that influence adsorption, such as solution pH (2–6), adsorbent dosage (1–10 g L–1), contact time (20–360 min), and initial metal ion concentration (5–150 mg L–1) was studied. A number of available models like the Lagergren pseudo first-order kinetic model, the pseudo second-order kinetic model and intra-particle diffusion were utilized to evaluate the adsorption kinetics. The adsorption of Pb2+ was modelled with the Langmuir, Freundlich and D-R isotherms. The maximum Pb2+ adsorption capacities for B1, B2 and B3 were 85.47 mg g–1, 73.42 mg g–1 and 48.66 mg g–1, respectively.
Engineering minerals for performance applications: an industrial perspective
Authors: Phipps J . S.
Published: March 2014

To a mineralogist, minerals are defined primarily by their crystal structure and chemical composition. Many minerals of industrial importance retain this identity in their final application. For the producer and end user, the physical properties of these industrial mineral products such as size and shape distribution, refractive index, density, hardness, refractoriness and colour are of primary importance, since it is the combination of these, together with its surface chemistry, which gives the mineral its functionality. As a result, minerals which are very different in structure and origin but have many similar physical properties, such as kaolin and calcium carbonate, are often used in very similar roles and in similar applications.

Examples of mineral use in diverse applications such as paper, paints and coatings, polymers and films show how the physical properties of different minerals are exploited and engineered to provide optical, mechanical and rheological performance and to minimise cost. Industrial mineral producers have been manipulating these properties for many decades and continue to do so in search of improved performance and new applications. As new high performance materials become more commonplace, the challenge is to find new ways of transforming minerals to provide the necessary functionality for them.
Abrasiveness index of dispersions of Portuguese clays using the Einlehner method: influence of clay parameters
Authors: A. Quintela  , Costa C. , Terroso D. , Rocha F.
Published: March 2014

The unique properties of clays make them suitable for a large number of applications. Among the procedures that can be used to characterize clayey materials, the assessment of the abrasion and the abrasiveness index can be employed to predict the mechanical behaviour of clay samples. However, only a limited number of references to these testing procedures are available in the literature. Several Portuguese clayey samples were collected and the <63 μm fraction was analysed. The main clay minerals present are kaolinite, illite and smectite. The abrasiveness index depends on the granulometric and mineralogical compositions. A lower abrasiveness is induced by the presence of a high abundance of the <2 μm fraction, small mean particle size and a large phyllosilicate content . Kaolinite and illite show good correlation with the abrasiveness index, while smectite decreases abrasion.
Rinkite, cerianite-(Ce), and hingganite-(Ce) in syenite gneisses from the Sushina Hill Complex, India: occurrence, compositional data and petrogenetic significance
Authors: Chakrabarty A. , Mitchell R. H. , Ren M. , Sen A. K. , Pruseth K. L.
Published: March 2014

Accessory rare earth element (REE) minerals occur in small quantities in agpaitic and miaskitic nepheline syenite gneisses of the Sushina Hill Complex, India. TheREE-rich minerals restricted mainly to the agpaitic rocks are rinkite, cerianite-(Ce), and cerian thorite. Rinkite, formed at the ortho-magmatic stage predates otherREE-rich phases and is the most Nd-F-rich rinkite (6.62–7.45 wt.% Nd2O3; 8.75–9.74 wt.% F) with very high Nd/Ce (>2.46) ratios reported to date. Hydrothermal cerianite-(Ce), formed by the decomposition of eudialyte in the agpaitic rocks, occurs as small rounded crystals rich in Ce (∼63–74 wt.% CeO2) and Y (6.03–11.69 wt.% Y2O3). The presence of cerianite-(Ce) indicates formation in an evolving hydrothermal fluid in an oxidizing milieu. Hingganite-(Ce) is present in the miaskitic unit and is considered to represent the superposition of an agpaitic mineral on an initial miaskitic assemblage. Hingganite-(Ce) is characterized by elevated contents of Ce (18.03–21.94 wt.% Ce2O3), and Nd (13.90–15.40 wt.% Nd2O3). Experimental data, coupled with the observed assemblage, suggest that the hingganite-(Ce) precipitated from the hydrothermal fluid between 400 and 300°C followed by cerianite-(Ce) (<∼300°C). This conclusion implies that eudialyte decomposition was probably initiated above 400°C.
Cobaltite-rich mineralization in the iron skarn deposit of Traversella (Western Alps, Italy)
Authors: Nimis P. , Dalla Costa L. , Guastoni A.
Published: March 2014

Cobaltite-rich mineralization from the iron skarns of the Traversella magnetite mine (Western Alps, Italy) was studied by reflected-light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and electron microprobe analysis. Cobaltite is found in carbonate-chlorite-rich rocks at the margins of the main magnetite masses, where it forms disseminations and metasomatic veinlets that postdate the formation of magnetite. The paragenesis includes cobaltite (± arsenopyrite), bismuthinite, pyrrhotite and/or pyrite, chalcopyrite, carbonates, talc, chlorite and native gold, and is indicative of a low-sulfidation environment. The sulfarsenides show oscillatory and sector zoning, which indicates disequilibrium during crystal growth. Compositional variations are mainly due to variations in the Co/Fe ratio of arsenopyrite and in either the Co/Fe or the Ni/(Fe + Co) ratios of the coexisting cobaltite. The Ni contents are low to very low in the cobaltites (<2.4 wt.%) and very low in the arsenopyrites (<0.16 wt.%). The As/S molar ratios in the cobaltites are highly variable (0.59−1.00) and show a broad negative correlation with the Fe contents. The formation of cobaltite is related to circulation of relatively low-temperature (<∼300°C), (Co,As,Bi)-rich fluids during the retrograde sulfidation stage which followed the formation of magnetite. The apparent restriction of cobaltite (+ bismuthinite ± arsenopyrite) to the margins of the main magnetite columns may reflect the establishment of thermochemical gradients around the main direction of infiltration of the retrograde metasomatic fluids.
Cadmium sulfide in a Mesoproterozoic terrestrial environment
Authors: Parnell J. , Still J. , Spinks S. , Thayalan W. , Bowden S.
Published: March 2014

Cadmium sulfide mineralization occurs in grey-black shales of the late Mesoproterozoic Stoer Group, Torridonian Supergroup, northwest Scotland. Cadmium is strongly redox-controlled, and normally concentrated in anoxic marine sediments or epigenetic mineralization involving organic matter. However the Stoer Group was deposited in a terrestrial environment, including lacustrine deposits of shale. At the limited levels of atmospheric oxygenation in the Mesoproterozoic (∼10% of present), the near-surface environment could have fluctuated between oxic and anoxic, allowing fractionation of Cd from Zn, and the formation of Cd sulfide rather than Cd-bearing sphalerite. This occurrence emphasizes the importance of the Stoer Group as a record of the Mesoproterozoic terrestrial environment.
Replacement of hydroxylapatite by whewellite: implications for kidney-stone formation
Authors: Sethmann I. , Grohe B. , Kleebe H.-J.
Published: March 2014

Kidney stones consisting predominantly of whewellite (calcium oxalate monohydrate, COM) are often found attached to hydroxylapatite (HA) plaques that form in the soft tissue of kidneys, cause lesions and become exposed to urine. Although the processes of stone formation are not entirely known, it is an established view that so-called Randall’s plaques serve as substrates for COM crystal nucleation and growth from correspondingly supersaturated urine. However, the results presented here suggest an additional mineral replacement process is involved. In an experimental approach, HA was reacted in 0.25 mM, 0.5 mM and 1.0 mM oxalate solutions with pH ranging from 4.5 to 7.5, simulating normal to harsh conditions encountered in urine. Extremely acidic solutions induce dissolution of HA crystals coupled with re-precipitation of the released Ca2+ ions as COM on the HA surface. When, instead, bone was used as a substrate, being more similar to the pathological plaque (aggregated HA nanocrystals within an organic matrix), the HA-COM mineral-replacement reaction is induced even under much milder fluid conditions, commonly found in urine. Hence, a process of COM partly replacing and encrusting Randall’s plaque may take place in the urinary tract of idiopathic stone formers, representing a potential starting event for nephrolithiasis.
Putnisite, SrCa4Cr83+ (CO3)8SO4(OH)16·25H2O, a new mineral from Western Australia: description and crystal structure
Authors: Elliott P. , Giester G. , Rowe R. , Pring A.
Published: March 2014

Putnisite, SrCa4Cr83+ (CO7)8SO4(OH)16·25H2O, is a new mineral from the Polar Bear peninsula, Southern Lake Cowan, Western Australia, Australia. The mineral forms isolated pseudocubic crystals up to 0.5 mm in size in a matrix composed of quartz and a near amorphous Cr silicate. Putnisite is translucent, with a pink streak and vitreous lustre. It is brittle and shows one excellent and two good cleavages parallel to {100}, {010} and {001}. The fracture is uneven and the Mohs hardness 1½−2. The measured density is 2.20(3) g/cm3 and the calculated density based on the empirical formula is 2.23 g/cm3. Optically, putnisite is biaxial negative, with α = 1.552(3), β = 1.583(3) and γ = 1.599(3) (measured in white light). The optical orientation is uncertain and pleochroism is distinct: X pale bluish grey, Y pale purple, Z pale purple. Putnisite is orthorhombic, space group Pnma, with a = 15.351(3), b = 20.421(4) Å, c = 18.270(4) Å, V = 5727(2) Å3 (single-crystal data), and Z = 4. The strongest five lines in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern are [d(Å)(I)(hkl)]: 13.577 (100) (011), 7.659 (80) (200), 6.667 (43) (211), 5.084 (19) (222, 230), 3.689 (16) (411). Electron microprobe analysis (EMPA) gave (wt.%): Na2O 0.17, MgO 0.08, CaO 10.81, SrO 5.72, BaO 0.12, CuO 0.29, Cr2O3 31.13, SO3 3.95, SiO2 0.08, Cl− 0.28, CO2calc 17.94, H2Ocalc 30.30, O=Cl−0.06, total 100.81. The empirical formula, based on O + Cl = 69, is: Cr8.023+Ca3.78Sr1.08Na0.11Cu0.072+Mg0.04Ba0.02[(SO4)0.96(SiO4)0.03]0.99 (CO3)7.98(OH)16.19Cl0.15·24.84H2O. The crystal structure was determined from single-crystal X-ray diffraction data (MoKα, CCD area detector and refined to R1 = 5.84% for 3181 reflections with F0 > 4σF. Cr(OH)4O2 octahedra link by edge-sharing to form an eight-membered ring. A 10-coordinated Sr2+ cation lies at the centre of each ring. The rings are decorated by CO3 triangles, each of which links by corner-sharing to two Cr(OH)4O2 octahedra. Rings are linked by Ca(H2O)4O4 polyhedra to form a sheet parallel to (100). Adjacent sheets are joined along [100] by corner-sharing SO4 tetrahedra. H2O molecules occupy channels that run along [100] and interstices between slabs. Moderate to weak hydrogen bonding provides additional linkage between slabs.
Trevorite: Ni-rich spinel formed by metasomatism and desulfurization processes at Bon Accord, South Africa?
Authors: O’Driscoll B. , Clay P. L. , Cawthorn R. G. , Lenaz D. , Adetunji J. , Kronz A.
Published: March 2014

The 3.5 Ga Bon Accord Ni deposit occurs within the lowest serpentinized mafic–ultramafic lavas of the Barberton Greenstone Belt (South Africa). Though now completely mined out, it comprised a suite of rare Ni-rich minerals that led to its interpretation as either an extraterrestrial body or as an oxidized fragment of Fe-Ni alloy originating from the terrestrial core. In this study, we draw on detailed petrographic observation and mineral chemical data, as well as previous work, to re-evaluate these ideas. The balance of evidence, from thin section (<1 mm) to regional (∼10s of km) scales, appears to support an alternative origin for Bon Accord, possibly as an oxidized Ni-sulfide deposit formed in association with ocean floor komatiite eruptions.
Role of altered growth factor receptor-mediated JAK2 signaling in growth and maintenance of human acute myeloid leukemia stem cells
Authors: Cook Amy M. , Li Liang , Ho Yinwei , Lin Allen , Li Ling , Stein Anthony , Forman Stephen , Perrotti Danilo , Jove Richard , Bhatia Ravi
Published: March 2014

Key Points

JAK/STAT signaling is constitutively increased in AML stem and progenitor cells. JAK2 inhibition significantly inhibits AML but not normal stem cell growth.
Two splice-factor mutant leukemia subgroups uncovered at the boundaries of MDS and AML using combined gene expression and DNA-methylation profiling
Authors: Taskesen Erdogan , Havermans Marije , van Lom Kirsten , Sanders Mathijs A. , van Norden Yvette , Bindels Eric , Hoogenboezem Remco , Reinders Marcel J. T. , Figueroa Maria E. , Valk Peter J. M. , Löwenberg Bob , Melnick Ari , Delwel Ruud
Published: March 2014

Key Points

SF-mutant myeloid malignancies transcend the boundaries between AML and MDS. Integrated analysis of gene expression and DNA-methylation profiles in leukemia uncovers novel subtypes.
Erythema associated with pain and warmth on face and ears: a variant of erythermalgia or red ear syndrome?
Authors: Chen Ming-Chun , Xu Qing-Fang , Luo Di-Qing , Li Xiang , He Ding-Yang
Published: March 2014

Erythermalgia is a rare cutaneous disorder characterized by attacking of erythema, pain and increased temperature, which primarily involves the extremities and may infrequently extend to the neck, face, ears and even the scrotum. We reported an 18-year-old woman who presented with 3 years history of sole involvement of attacking erythema, pain and warmth over her face and ears without any other associations. The frequency and severity of the flares progressed gradually during the course. Cutaneous examination revealed erythema, increased temperature and tenderness on the face and ears during the flare. The symptoms could be relieved rapidly by cooling. Dermatoscope showed that vessels inside the erythema were more dilated during the episode than after application of ice. The lesion is considered a rare variant of erythermalgia with sole involvement of face and ears. The symptoms had mild response to oral antihistamines, topical steroids and tacrolimus, but had excellent response to the combinative therapy of aspirin and paroxetins.
Characterization of the caleosin gene family in the Triticeae
Authors: Khalil Hala Badr , Brunetti Sabrina C , Pham Uyen Minh , Maret Deborah , Laroche André , Gulick Patrick J
Published: March 2014

Background

The caleosin genes encode proteins with a single conserved EF hand calcium-binding domain and comprise small gene families found in a wide range of plant species. Some members of the gene family have been shown to be upregulated by environmental stresses including low water availability and high salinity. Caleosin 3 from wheat has been shown to interact with the α-subunit of the heterotrimeric G proteins, and to act as a GTPase activating protein (GAP). This study characterizes the size and diversity of the gene family in wheat and related species and characterizes the differential tissue-specific expression of members of the gene family.

Results

A total of 34 gene family members that belong to eleven paralogous groups of caleosins were identified in the hexaploid bread wheat, T. aestivum. Each group was represented by three homeologous copies of the gene located on corresponding homeologous chromosomes, except the caleosin 10, which has four gene copies. Ten gene family members were identified in diploid barley, Hordeum vulgare, and in rye, Secale cereale, seven in Brachypodium distachyon, and six in rice, Oryza sativa. The analysis of gene expression was assayed in triticale and rye by RNA-Seq analysis of 454 sequence sets and members of the gene family were found to have diverse patterns of gene expression in the different tissues that were sampled in rye and in triticale, the hybrid hexaploid species derived from wheat and rye. Expression of the gene family in wheat and barley was also previously determined by microarray analysis, and changes in expression during development and in response to environmental stresses are presented.

Conclusions

The caleosin gene family had a greater degree of expansion in the Triticeae than in the other monocot species, Brachypodium and rice. The prior implication of one member of the gene family in the stress response and heterotrimeric G protein signaling, points to the potential importance of the caleosin gene family. The complexity of the family and differential expression in various tissues and under conditions of abiotic stress suggests the possibility that caleosin family members may play diverse roles in signaling and development that warrants further investigation.
Inflammatory biomarkers in serum in subjects with and without work related neck/shoulder complaints
Authors: Matute Wilander Anna , Kåredal Monica , Axmon Anna , Nordander Catarina
Published: March 2014

Background

Although it has recently been recognised that inflammation is important in the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), the exact pathophysiological pathways are unknown.

Methods

We investigated serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines in 35 female supermarket cashiers with repetitive work tasks and work related neck/shoulder complaints, compared with those from 25 women without MSDs (6 supermarket cashiers and 19 middle-school teachers or faculty staff). None of the subjects were pregnant or lactating, and showed no signs of rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, cancer, diabetes, coronary artery disease or inadequately controlled hypertension. Serum levels of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, TNF-α, GM-CSF, CTGF and CRP were analysed.

Results

The women with pain related to MSD had higher serum concentrations of MIP-1β (median, 25th-75th percentile: 90.0 pg/mL, 62.5-110 vs. 73.1 pg/mL, 54.6-88.3; p = 0.018), IL-12 (0.26 pg/mL, 0.26-0.26 vs. 0.26 pg/mL, 0.26-0.26; p = 0.047) and CRP (0.5 mg/L, 0.5-1.6 vs. 0.5 mg/L, 0.5-0.5; p = 0.003), than control subjects. Levels of MIP-1α, MIP-1β and CRP were correlated with the reported intensity of neck/shoulder pain (r = 0.29, p = 0.03 for MIP-1α; r = 0.29, p = 0.02 for MIP-1β and r = 0.43, p = 0.001 for CRP). No statistically significant differences in serum levels were found for the remaining cytokines.

Conclusions

Otherwise healthy females with ongoing work-related neck/shoulder pain showed higher serum concentrations of MIP-1β, IL-12 and CRP than controls, and the levels of MIP-1α, MIP-1β and CRP were correlated to pain intensity. These results support previous findings that inflammatory processes play a part in work related MSDs.
The professionalism disconnect: do entering residents identify yet participate in unprofessional behaviors?
Authors: Nagler Alisa , Andolsek Kathryn , Rudd Mariah , Sloane Richard , Musick David , Basnight Lorraine
Published: March 2014

Background

Professionalism has been an important tenet of medical education, yet defining it is a challenge. Perceptions of professional behavior may vary by individual, medical specialty, demographic group and institution. Understanding these differences should help institutions better clarify professionalism expectations and provide standards with which to evaluate resident behavior.

Methods

Duke University Hospital and Vidant Medical Center/East Carolina University surveyed entering PGY1 residents. Residents were queried on two issues: their perception of the professionalism of 46 specific behaviors related to training and patient care; and their own participation in those specified behaviors. The study reports data analyses for gender and institution based upon survey results in 2009 and 2010. The study received approval by the Institutional Review Boards of both institutions.

Results

76% (375) of 495 PGY1 residents surveyed in 2009 and 2010 responded. A majority of responders rated all 46 specified behaviors as unprofessional, and a majority had either observed or participated in each behavior. For all 46 behaviors, a greater percentage of women rated the behaviors as unprofessional. Men were more likely than women to have participated in behaviors. There were several significant differences in both the perceptions of specified behaviors and in self-reported observation of and/or involvement in those behaviors between institutions.

Respondents indicated the most important professionalism issues relevant to medical practice include: respect for colleagues/patients, relationships with pharmaceutical companies, balancing home/work life, and admitting mistakes. They reported that professionalism can best be assessed by peers, patients, observation of non-medical work and timeliness/detail of paperwork.

Conclusion

Defining professionalism in measurable terms is a challenge yet critical in order for it to be taught and assessed. Recognition of the differences by gender and institution should allow for tailored teaching and assessment of professionalism so that it is most meaningful. A shared understanding of what constitutes professional behavior is an important first step.
General iterative algorithms for mixed equilibrium problems, variational inequalities and fixed point problems
Authors: Wang Xiao-Jie , Ceng Lu-Chuan , Hu Hui-Ying , Li Shi-Xiu
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we introduce and analyze a general iterative algorithm for finding a common solution of a mixed equilibrium problem, a general system of variational inequalities and a fixed point problem of infinitely many nonexpansive mappings in a real Hilbert space. Under some mild conditions, we derive the strong convergence of the sequence generated by the proposed algorithm to a common solution, which also solves some optimization problem. The result presented in this paper improves and extends some corresponding ones in the earlier and recent literature.

MSC:49J30, 47H10, 47H15.
Development of a novel cellular model of Alzheimer’s disease utilizing neurosphere cultures derived from B6C3-Tg(APPswe,PSEN1dE9)85Dbo/J embryonic mouse brain
Authors: Ghate Pankaj S , Sidhar Himakshi , Carlson George A , Giri Ranjit K
Published: March 2014

Increased production, oligomerization and aggregation of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides are hallmark pathologies of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Expressing familial AD mutations (amyloid precursor protein and/or presenilins mutations), the Aβ-pathologies of AD has been recapitulated in animal models of AD. Very few primary cell culture-based models of AD are available and they exhibit very weak Aβ-pathologies compared to what is seen in AD patients and animal models of AD. CNS stem/progenitor cells are present in both embryonic and adult brains. They can be isolated, grown as neurospheres and differentiated into neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. It is not yet known whether CNS stem/progenitor cells can support the production of Aβ peptides in culture. In this report, we have established Aβ-pathologies such as production, secretion, oligomerization and aggregation of Aβ peptides utilizing neurosphere cultures to create a new cellular model of AD. These cultures were developed from E15 embryonic brains of transgenic mice carrying the Swedish mutations in humanized mouse APP cDNA and the exon-9 deleted human presenilin 1 cDNA both regulated by mouse prion protein gene (Prnp) promoter. Results demonstrated the expression of transgene transcripts, APPswe protein and its processed products only in transgene positive neurosphere cultures. These cultures generate and secrete both Aβ40 and Aβ42 peptides into culture medium at levels comparable to the Aβ load in the brain of AD patients and animal models of AD, and produce pathogenic oligomers of Aβ peptides. The Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio in the medium of transgene positive neurosphere cultures is higher than any known cellular models of AD. Conformation dependent immunocytochemistry demonstrated the possible presence of intracellular and extracellular aggregation of Aβ peptides in neurosphere cultures, which are also seen in AD brain and animal models of AD. Collectively, our neurosphere cultures provide robust Aβ-pathologies of AD better than existing cellular model of Alzheimer’s disease.
Rituximab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in routine practice (GERINIS): six-year results from a prospective, multicentre, non-interventional study in 2,484 patients
Authors: Wendler Joerg , Burmester Gerd R , Sörensen Helmut , Krause Andreas , Richter Constanze , Tony Hans-Peter , Rubbert-Roth Andrea , Bartz-Bazzanella Peter , Wassenberg Siegfried , Haug-Rost Iris , Dörner Thomas
Published: March 2014

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of rituximab (RTX) in a large cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in routine care, and to monitor changes in daily practice since the introduction of RTX therapy.

Methods

This was a multicentre, prospective, non-interventional study conducted under routine practice conditions in Germany. Efficacy was evaluated using Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) and Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI). Safety was assessed by recording adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Physician and patient global efficacy and tolerability assessments were also evaluated.

Results

Overall, 2,484 patients (76.7% female, mean age 56.4 years, mean disease duration 11.7 years) received RTX treatment (22.7% monotherapy). The total observation period was approximately six-years (median follow-up 14.7 months). RTX treatment led to improvements in DAS28 and HAQ-DI that were sustained over multiple courses. DAS28 improvements positively correlated with higher rheumatoid factor levels up to 50 IU/ml. Response and tolerability were rated good/very good by the majority of physicians and patients. Mean treatment intervals were 10.5 and 6.8 months for the first and last 400 enrolled patients, respectively. Infections were the most frequently reported ADRs (9.1%; 11.39/100 patient-years); approximately 1% of patients per course discontinued therapy due to ADRs.

Conclusions

Prolonged RTX treatment in routine care is associated with good efficacy and tolerability, as measured by conventional parameters and by physicians’ and patients’ global assessments. Rheumatoid factor status served as a distinct and quantitative biomarker of RTX responsiveness. With growing experience, physicians repeated treatments earlier in patients with less severe disease activity.
Malignant phyllodes tumors display mesenchymal stem cell features and aldehyde dehydrogenase/disialoganglioside identify their tumor stem cells
Authors: Lin Jin-Jin , Huang Chiun-Sheng , Yu John , Liao Guo-Shiou , Lien Huang-Chun , Hung Jung-Tung , Lin Ruey-Jen , Chou Fen-Pi , Yeh Kun-Tu , Yu Alice L
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Although breast phyllodes tumors are rare, there is no effective therapy other than surgery. Little is known about their tumor biology. A malignant phyllodes tumor contains heterologous stromal elements, and can transform into rhabdomyosarcoma, liposarcoma and osteosarcoma. These versatile properties prompted us to explore their possible relationship to mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and to search for the presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in phyllodes tumors.

Methods

Paraffin sections of malignant phyllodes tumors were examined for various markers by immunohistochemical staining. Xenografts of human primary phyllodes tumors were established by injecting freshly isolated tumor cells into the mammary fat pad of non-obese diabetic-severe combined immunodeficient (NOD-SCID) mice. To search for CSCs, xenografted tumor cells were sorted into various subpopulations by flow cytometry and examined for their in vitro mammosphere forming capacity, in vivo tumorigenicity in NOD-SCID mice and their ability to undergo differentiation.

Results

Immunohistochemical analysis revealed the expression of the following 10 markers: CD44, CD29, CD106, CD166, CD105, CD90, disialoganglioside (GD2), CD117, Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH), and Oct-4, and 7 clinically relevant markers (CD10, CD34, p53, p63, Ki-67, Bcl-2, vimentin, and Globo H) in all 51 malignant phyllodes tumors examined, albeit to different extents. Four xenografts were successfully established from human primary phyllodes tumors. In vitro, ALDH+ cells sorted from xenografts displayed approximately 10-fold greater mammosphere-forming capacity than ALDH- cells. GD2+ cells showed a 3.9-fold greater capacity than GD2- cells. ALDH+/GD2+cells displayed 12.8-fold greater mammosphere forming ability than ALDH-/GD2- cells. In vivo, the tumor-initiating frequency of ALDH+/GD2+ cells were up to 33-fold higher than that of ALDH+ cells, with as few as 50 ALDH+/GD2+ cells being sufficient for engraftment. Moreover, we provided the first evidence for the induction of ALDH+/GD2+ cells to differentiate into neural cells of various lineages, along with the observation of neural differentiation in clinical specimens and xenografts of malignant phyllodes tumors. ALDH+ or ALDH+/GD2+ cells could also be induced to differentiate into adipocytes, osteocytes or chondrocytes.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed that malignant phyllodes tumors possessed many characteristics of MSC, and their CSCs were enriched in ALDH+ and ALDH+/GD2+ subpopulations.
Impact of four sequential measures on the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia in cardiac surgery patients
Authors: Pérez-Granda María Jesús , Barrio José María , Muñoz Patricia , Hortal Javier , Rincón Cristina , Bouza Emilio
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is the most frequent infection in patients admitted to intensive care units.

The efficacy of individual measures for the prevention of VAP is well documented, and data on the impact of implementing bundle measures have usually been reported from studies in which several measures are implemented simultaneously in the general intensive care unit (ICU).

The objective of our work was to evaluate the impact of four sequentially implemented measures for preventing VAP in a major heart surgery ICU. The measures were a specific training program, aspiration of subglottic secretions (ASSs), introduction of an inclinometer to improve the semirecumbent position, and reinforcement of oral care with chlorhexidine.

Methods

We compared rates of VAP, days on mechanical ventilation (MV), and cost of antimicrobial agents before and during implementation.

Results

We collected data from 401 patients before the intervention and from 1,534 patients during the intervention. Both groups were comparable. No significant differences in EuroSCORE were observed between the patients of both periods (6.4 versus 6.3; P = 0.7). The rates of VAP (episodes/1,000 days of ventilation) were, respectively, 23.9 versus 13.5 (P = 0.005). Mean number of days of MV/1,000 days of stay was 507 versus 375 (P = 0.001), and the cost of antimicrobial therapy (Euros/1,000 days of stay) was €70,612 versus €52,775 (P = 0.10). The main effect of sequential application of preventive measures in time achieved a relative-rate reduction of VAP of 41% (IRR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.28 to 0.62). The mortality rate before and during the intervention was 13.0% and 10.2%, respectively.

VAP rate was most significantly reduced by training and the use of the inclinometer.

Conclusions

A sequentially applied bundle of four preventive measures reduces VAP rates, days of MV, and the cost of antimicrobial therapy in patients admitted to the major heart surgery ICU.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials.gov: NCT02060045. Registered 4 February 2014.