bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central vestibular system modulation in vestibular migraine
Authors: Obermann Mark , Wurthmann Sebastian , Steinberg Benedict Schulte , Theysohn Nina , Diener Hans-Christoph , Naegel Steffen
Published: March 2014

Background

Vestibular migraine affects 1% of the general population, and 30%–50% of all migraine patients describe occasionally associated vertigo or dizziness. We aimed to identify brain regions altered in vestibular migraine in order to evaluate the connection between migraine and the vestibular system.

Methods

Seventeen patients with definite vestibular migraine were compared to 17 controls using magnetic resonance imaging-based voxel-based morphometry.

Results

We found grey matter (GM) volume reduction in the superior, inferior and middle (MT/V5) temporal gyrus as well as in the mid. cingulate, dorsolateral prefontal, insula, parietal and occipital cortex. A negative correlation of disease duration and GM volume was observed in areas associated with pain and vestibular processing. Moreover, there was a negative correlation between headache severity and prefrontal cortex volume.

Conclusion

Alterations identified in vestibular migraine resemble those previously described for migraine, but also extend to areas involved in multisensory vestibular control and central vestibular compensation possibly representing the pathoanatomic connection between migraine and the vestibular system.
Cumulative Effects of Maternal Age and Unintended Pregnancy on Offspring Aggression
Authors: Mack Julia M. , Chavez Jorge M.
Published: March 2014

Research on physical aggression often points to teen motherhood as being a primary contributor in the development of aggressive tendencies among young children. As a result of poor parenting practices, limited education, and a lack of emotional, physical, and financial resources, children born to young mothers often exhibit high levels of aggression across the life course. Meanwhile, unintentional pregnancy and young motherhood are likely to share many of the same risk factors and negative consequences for offspring, yet there is a dearth of research examining pregnancy intentionality and offspring aggression. Using the Fragile Families and Wellbeing Study, our study examines how mother’s age and pregnancy intention status influence aggression among their 5-year-old children. We find that young motherhood and unintended births, despite being likely to co-occur, each provide distinct mechanisms for the formation of aggressive behavior in childhood.
Why the Impact? Negative Affective Change as a Mediator of the Effects of Victim Impact Statements
Authors: Wevodau Amy L. , Cramer Robert J. , Kehn Andre , Clark John W.
Published: March 2014

Victim impact statements (VISs) represent a contentious legal and psychological point of debate. Current knowledge concerning the influence of VISs on jurors’ emotional states and views of offenders is unclear. Using a sexual assault case, the present study attempted to disentangle these points of debate in the body of existing literature by (a) examining the direct influences of the presence of a VIS and juror Need for Affect (NFA) on sentencing recommendations, (b) assessing overall negative affective change as a mediating mechanism of these predictors, and (c) if mediation was present, identifying specific negative emotions that explain the effects of negative affective change. Results showed that presence of a VIS and a greater proclivity to approach emotions were associated with significantly greater sentencing recommendations. Moreover, change in negative affect mediated the effects of NFA approach and VIS exposure. Examination of changes in specific negative emotions revealed that increases in being upset and nervous mediated the impact of VIS condition; in addition, increases in hostility mediated the effect of NFA approach. Results are discussed with regard to emotion-based decision making of potential jurors, applications to trial process, and future research in the area.
On the Pervasiveness of Event-Specific Alcohol Use, General Substance Use, and Mental Health Problems as Risk Factors for Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Reingle Jennifer M. , Jennings Wesley G. , Connell Nadine M. , Businelle Michael S. , Chartier Karen
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of demographic, mental health, and substance use as risk factors for intimate partner violence (IPV). Data were derived from Wave II of the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (2004-2005). Eligible participants ( N = 25,778) reported having an intimate partner 1 year before the survey. Clustered survey multivariate multinomial regression methods were used to assess risk factors for episodes of IPV. IPV victimization, perpetration, and both victims/perpetrators were assessed. Bivariate analyses indicated that African Americans, Hispanics, and women were more likely to be victims, perpetrators, or victim/perpetrators as compared with men and Whites. Multivariate analyses suggested that having a marijuana use disorder was strongly associated with IPV victimization (odds ratio [OR] = 2.61) and victim/perpetration (OR = 2.65). Post-traumatic stress disorder was consistently associated with all IPV typologies. Depression was associated with victimization (OR = 2.00) and IPV victim/perpetration (OR = 1.74). Antisocial Personality Disorder and Mania were both related to IPV perpetration (ORs = 2.53 and 2.32) and victim/perpetration (ORs = 3.15 and 2.31). Results also indicated that alcohol use during episodes of IPV is common (i.e., 35% of those who reported IPV also reported that alcohol was involved). Results indicate several substance- and mental health–related correlates of IPV. In addition, findings indicate that alcohol use by the victim and/or perpetrator is common during IPV events. Policy implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Teacher evaluation in Colorado
Authors: Ramirez Al , Clouse Wendi , Davis Kristyn White
Published: March 2014

This article is a report of a study that used data from multiple sources to explore the hypothesis that systemic barriers inherent in Colorado’s teacher evaluation policies often contribute to ineffective teacher evaluations across the state. Data were collected from extant studies, focus groups, and surveys of teachers, site administrators/head teachers, and school district human resources administrators. Using a mixed methods study design, the research team identified four major barriers to an efficacious teacher evaluation system: an over-reaching state policy; negative incentives for teachers and administrators to commit to policy objectives; time constraints; and poorly designed evaluation processes. Policy recommendations are proffered based on study findings.
How Does Public Assistance Use Affect Charitable Activity? A Tale of Two Methods
Authors: Peck Laura R. , Guo Chao
Published: March 2014

How does receiving public assistance affect an individual’s charitable giving and volunteering? Using the 1994 to 2005 Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) and 2005 Center on Philanthropy Panel Study (COPPS) data, we use a series of comparison group and propensity score matching approaches to overcome sticky issues of selection bias and to explore this question. We find that neither current public assistance receipt nor the amount of public assistance income has any effect on an individual’s charitable contributions of time and money. Cumulative past public assistance appears to suppress charitable giving but not volunteerism.
Effect of TiO2 addition on surface microstructure and bioactivity of fluorapatite coatings deposited using Nd:YAG laser
Authors: Chien Chi-Sheng , Ko Yu-Sheng , Kuo Tsung-Yuan , Liao Tze-Yuan , Lee Tzer-Min , Hong Ting-Fu
Published: March 2014

To study the effect of titania (TiO2) addition on the surface microstructure and bioactivity of fluorapatite coatings, fluorapatite was mixed with TiO2 in 1:0.5 (FA + 0.5TiO2), 1:0.8 (FA + 0.8TiO2), and 1:1 (FA + TiO2) ratios (wt%) and clad on Ti-6Al-4V substrates using an Nd:YAG laser system. The experimental results show that the penetration depth of the weld decreases with increasing TiO2 content. Moreover, the subgrain structure of the coating layer changes from a fine cellular-like structure to a cellular-dendrite-like structure as the amount of TiO2 increases. Consequently, as the proportion of TiO2 decreases (increase in fluorapatite content), the Ca/P ratio of the coating layer also decreases. The immersion of specimens into simulated body fluid resulted in the formation of individual apatite. With a lower Ca/P ratio before immersion, the growth of the apatite was faster and then the coating layer provided a better bioactivity. X-ray diffraction analysis results show that prior to simulated body fluid immersion, the coating layer in all three specimens was composed mainly of fluorapatite, CaTiO3, and Al2O3 phases. Following simulated body fluid immersion, a peak corresponding to hydroxycarbonated apatite appeared after 2 days in the FA + 0.5TiO2 and FA + 0.8TiO2 specimens and after 7 days in the FA + TiO2 specimen. Overall, the results show that although the bioactivity of the coating layer tended to decrease with increasing TiO2 content, in accordance with the above-mentioned ratios, the bioactivity of all three specimens remained generally good.
Response of Crime to Unemployment
Authors: Buonanno Paolo , Drago Francesco , Galbiati Roberto
Published: March 2014

This article studies crime rates’ response to economic conditions. Using a longitudinal data set covering about 20 countries over the period 1970-2010, we investigate whether crime rates respond asymmetrically to increases in unemployment and recoveries in economic conditions. We find a positive response of crime rates on variation in unemployment rates, but we do not find compelling evidence of asymmetric responses to positive and negative variations in the economic cycle.
Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Hypertension
Authors: Wilhelm Sheila M. , Young Jamie , Kale-Pradhan Pramodini B.
Published: March 2014

Purpose: Obesity is a growing epidemic leading to worldwide public health concerns. Bariatric surgery is an option for patients with a body mass index (BMI) >40 kg/m2 or BMI of >35 kg/m2 with serious comorbid conditions. This meta-analysis examines the effect of bariatric surgery on the improvement or resolution of hypertension. Methods: Two independent investigators conducted a literature search of PubMed (1990-2013) and Cochrane databases using the terms bariatric surgery and hypertension to identify appropriate human adult studies published in English. Studies were included if they reported the number of patients with hypertension prior to undergoing any bariatric surgery procedure and whether the hypertension improved or resolved postsurgery. The number of patients with hypertension and their response rates were extracted and analyzed using RevMan 5.2.5. Results: In all, 31 prospective and 26 retrospective studies met all criteria. The types of bariatric surgery performed included Roux-en-Y, gastric banding, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, vertical gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, and biliopancreatic diversion. The time to first follow-up after surgery varied from 1 week to 7 years. Of the 57 studies, 32 reported improvement of hypertension in 32 628 of 51 241 patients (odds ratio [OR] = 13.24; 95% CI = 7.73, 22.68; P < 0.00001); 46 studies reported the resolution of hypertension in 24 902 of 49 844 patients (OR = 1.70; 95% CI = 1.13, 2.58; P = 0.01). A random-effects model was used because the heterogeneity between the studies was high ( I2 = 97%). Conclusion: The results of this meta-analysis indicate that patients who undergo bariatric surgery experience improvement and resolution of their hypertension.
An assessment of risk factors associated with ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy in a large academic cancer center
Authors: Szabatura Audrea H , Cirrone Frank , Harris Christy , McDonnell Anne M , Feng Yang , Voit Daniel , Neuberg Donna , Butrynski James , Fisher David C
Published: March 2014

Purpose

Ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy is a neurotoxic adverse effect of ifosfamide chemotherapy. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of encephalopathy in patients with lymphoma and sarcoma receiving ifosfamide chemotherapy and assess for potential risk factors that influence the incidence of encephalopathy.

Methods

A retrospective study of sarcoma and lymphoma patients receiving ifosfamide chemotherapy was performed at the participating institutions. Enrollment began 1 July 2011 and continued chronologically backwards until 100 sarcoma and 100 lymphoma patients were enrolled. Identification of ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy events was performed by reviewing provider documentation of ifosfamide infusions. Logistic regression was employed to determine associations between risk factors and ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy events.

Results

Of the 200 patients enrolled, 29 (14.5%) patients experienced encephalopathy. Ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy occurred more frequently in the sarcoma population than the lymphoma population (24 vs. 5 patients, p < 0.001). In addition to cancer type, prior use of cisplatin, concomitant opioids, and use of CYP2B6 inhibitors remained as significant variables in the multivariate model conferring a 12.47, 2.81, and 5.17 increased odds of experiencing encephalopathy, respectively. The odds of experiencing encephalopathy were 9.0 and 1.37 times higher for a one-unit increase in serum creatinine and hemoglobin, respectively, and 0.15 times lower for a one-unit increase in albumin.

Conclusions

This is the first study to demonstrate that patients with sarcoma experienced ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy more often than those with lymphoma. For all patients, predisposing factors for ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy included previous cisplatin exposure, concomitant opioids and CYP2B6 inhibitors. Laboratory values that increased ifosfamide-induced encephalopathy risk included low serum albumin, increased serum creatinine, and increased hemoglobin.
Examining Behavioral Risk and Academic Performance for Students Transitioning From Elementary to Middle School
Authors: Lane Kathleen Lynne , Oakes Wendy Peia , Carter Erik W. , Messenger Mallory
Published: March 2014

We studied the transition from elementary to middle school for 74 fifth-grade students. Specifically, we examined how behavioral risk evident in the elementary years, as measured by the Student Risk Screening Scale (SRSS), impacts students transitioning from elementary to middle school. First, we examined how student risk status shifts as students transitioned from elementary to middle school, also exploring whether these shifts in risk were comparable with the shifts in risk occurring within the fifth-grade year. Second, we explored the degree to which these shifts in risk varied as a function of student gender, special education status, and initial behavioral performance. Although gender was not predictive of performance, there was a positive relation between special education status and initial behavioral risk when compared with risk evident during the sixth-grade year. Finally, we determined the extent to which risk at the end of elementary school was associated with academic and behavioral performance during the first year of middle school. Findings suggest a strong relation between grade point average (GPA) and course failures (CFs) with behavioral risk in sixth grade. As expected, there was a statistically significant, positive relation between CFs and sixth-grade SRSS scores and an inverse relation with GPA.
The lightness of management learning
Authors: Lancione Michele , Clegg Stewart R
Published: March 2014

Design or integrated thinking increasingly features in discussion of the future of business education that seeks to innovate new models different from the functionalist, modernist silos of the past. The impact of the Global Financial Crisis and the attribution of responsibility for it, in part, to the conventional knowledge reproduced in Business Schools, have provided an incentive for innovation. The article reports a case study of one innovation process in a Business School, with the aim of investigating its basic tenets and questioning its assumptions. First, at a general level, we illustrate how Business Schools attempt to become more global, integrated and innovative; second, we elaborate the context of the research, showing how global ideas become translated into local institution by means of specific representational devices; and third, on the basis of the empirical material, we characterise the effects of these processes as one of ‘lightness’, defined not in terms of mass or density but the translucence of three relevant representational devices: curriculum, branding and building. Translucence poses critical issues for this model of management learning, but it may also offer opportunities for resistance to normalising tendencies.
Longer Term Impact of the Mass Media Campaign to Promote the Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service®
Authors: O’Hara Blythe J. , Phongsavan Philayrath , Gebel Klaus , Banovic Debbie , Buffett Kym M. , Bauman Adrian E.
Published: March 2014

The Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service® (GHS) was introduced in New South Wales in February 2009. It used mass reach media advertising and direct mail and/or proactive marketing to recruit participants. This article reports on the long-term impact of the campaign on GHS participation from July 2011 to June 2012. A stand-alone population survey collected awareness, knowledge, and behavioral variables before the first advertising phase, ( n = 1,544, August-September 2010), during the advertising period ( n = 1,500, February-March 2011; n = 1,500, June-July 2011; n = 1,500, February 2012), and after the advertising period ( n = 1,500, June-July 2012). GHS usage data ( n = 6,095) were collated during July 2011-June 2012. Unprompted and prompted awareness of GHS mass media significantly increased (0% to 8.0%, p < .001; and 14.1% to 43.9%, p < .001, respectively) as well as knowledge and perceived effectiveness of the GHS. Those from the lowest three quintiles of socioeconomic disadvantage and respondents who were overweight or obese were significantly more likely to report prompted campaign awareness. The majority (84.4%) of new GHS calls occurred when television advertising was present. Participants who cited mass media as their referral source were significantly more likely to enroll in the intensive coaching program. Mass media campaigns remain an effective method of promoting a telephone-based statewide lifestyle program.
Feasibility and Efficacy of Intensive Cognitive Training in Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kanaan Saddam F. , McDowd Joan M. , Colgrove Yvonne , Burns Jeffery M. , Gajewski Byron , Pohl Patricia S.
Published: March 2014

Cognitive training may be beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD); however, the effects are modest with little evidence of carryover. Prior studies included limited hours and low intensity of training. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility and efficacy of many hours of intensive cognitive training with adults in the early stages of AD. Twenty-one adults with very mild or mild AD participated in cognitive training for 10 days over 2 weeks with 4 to 5 hours of training each day. Participants significantly improved in practiced computer-based tasks including those involving working memory, sustained attention, and switching attention. Outcome measures that improved included the Mini-Mental State Examination, letter fluency, and 3 of 5 Trail-Making Tests. Gains in outcome measures were maintained at 2- and 4-month follow-up. Adults in early-stage AD can participate in intensive cognitive training and make modest gains in both practiced and unpracticed cognitive tasks.
Decreased glutathione and elevated hair mercury levels are associated with nutritional deficiency-based autism in Oman
Authors: Hodgson Nathaniel W , Waly Mostafa I , Al-Farsi Yahya M , Al-Sharbati Marwan M , Al-Farsi Omar , Ali Amanat , Ouhtit Allal , Zang Tianzhu , Zhou Zhaohui Sunny , Deth Richard C
Published: March 2014

Genetic, nutrition, and environmental factors have each been implicated as sources of risk for autism. Oxidative stress, including low plasma levels of the antioxidant glutathione, has been reported by numerous autism studies, which can disrupt methylation-dependent epigenetic regulation of gene expression with neurodevelopmental consequences. We investigated the status of redox and methylation metabolites, as well as the level of protein homocysteinylation and hair mercury levels, in autistic and neurotypical control Omani children, who were previously shown to exhibit significant nutritional deficiencies in serum folate and vitamin B12. The serum level of glutathione in autistic subjects was significantly below control levels, while levels of homocysteine and S-adenosylhomocysteine were elevated, indicative of oxidative stress and decreased methionine synthase activity. Autistic males had lower glutathione and higher homocysteine levels than females, while homocysteinylation of serum proteins was increased in autistic males but not females. Mercury levels were markedly elevated in the hair of autistic subjects vs. control subjects, consistent with the importance of glutathione for its elimination. Thus, autism in Oman is associated with decreased antioxidant resources and decreased methylation capacity, in conjunction with elevated hair levels of mercury.
CXCL4-induced plaque macrophages can be specifically identified by co-expression of MMP7+S100A8+in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Erbel Christian , Tyka Mirjam , Helmes Christian M , Akhavanpoor Mohmmadreza , Rupp Gregor , Domschke Gabriele , Linden Fabian , Wolf Antonia , Doesch Andreas , Lasitschka Felix , Katus Hugo A , Gleissner Christian A
Published: March 2014

Macrophage heterogeneity in human atherosclerotic plaques has been recognized; however, markers for unequivocal identification of some subtypes are lacking. We found that the platelet chemokine CXCL4 induces a unique macrophage phenotype, which we proposed to call ‘M4’. Here, we sought to identify suitable markers that identify M4 macrophages in vitro and in vivo. Using a stringent algorithm, we identified a set of potential markers from transcriptomic data derived from polarized macrophages. We specifically focused on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)7 and S100A8, the co-expression of which has not been described in any macrophage type thus far. We found dose- and time-dependent MMP7 and S100A8 expression in M4 macrophages at the gene and protein levels. CXCL4-induced up-regulation of both MMP7 and S100A8 was curbed in the presence of heparin, which binds to CXCL4 and glycosaminoglycans, most likely representing the macrophage receptor for CXCL4. Immunofluorescence of post-mortem atherosclerotic coronary arteries identified CD68+MMP7+, CD68+MMP7−, CD68+S100A8+ and CD68+S100A8− macrophages. A small proportion of MMP7+S100A8+ macrophages most likely represent M4 macrophages. In summary, we have identified co-expression of MMP7 and S100A8 to be a marker combination exclusively found in M4 macrophages. This finding may allow further dissection of the role of M4 macrophages in atherosclerosis and other pathologic conditions.
The role of cabazitaxel in the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Tsao Che-Kai , Cutting Elena , Martin Jacob , Oh William K.
Published: March 2014

For decades, cytotoxic therapy was considered ineffective for the treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Earlier therapies such as estramustine and mitoxantrone received regulatory approval based upon improvement in palliative endpoints. In 2004, docetaxel became the first treatment to demonstrate a significant survival benefit in patients with mCRPC based on two randomized phase III studies, TAX327 and SWOG 99-16. Cabazitaxel, a third-generation taxane, was chosen for clinical development based on its decreased affinity for the drug efflux pump, p-glycoprotein, which is a frequent cause of drug resistance in docetaxel-resistant preclinical models. In 2010, cabazitaxel was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as the first therapy to show a survival benefit for the treatment of patients with docetaxel-refractory mCRPC. This review summarizes the existing literature on the use of cabazitaxel, focusing on its efficacy and safety in combination with prednisone in the treatment of mCRPC, as well as its role in an era of new therapeutic options.
What’s old is new, and new is old: History and geography’s quantitative revolutions
Authors: Barnes Trevor J
Published: March 2014

The article provides a critical commentary on papers by Ron Johnston et al. (2014) and Elvin Wyly (2014) about the different forms of geography’s quantitative revolution. The paper argues that in both cases the respective authors should have striven for a more robust historical exploration.
Issues of representation, reflexivity, and research-participant relationships: Doing feminist cultural studies to improve health campaigns
Authors: Vardeman-Winter Jennifer
Published: March 2014

I reflect upon findings from a feminist cultural study uncovering teen girls’ and parents’ perceptions of the Gardasil HPV/cervical cancer vaccine media campaign. I consider issues important to feminist researchers such as representation, reflexivity, and researcher–participant relationships as they relate to public relations research. Topics discussed are seeing the dark side of meeting our publics, renegotiating feminist ideals, and balancing strategic and feminist goals. I propose considerations for doing feminist cultural studies to inform campaign production.
The Expanding Indications for the Lecompte Maneuver
Authors: Talwar Sachin , Muthukkumaran Subramanian , Choudhary Shiv Kumar , Airan Balram
Published: March 2014

Since the anterior translocation of the pulmonary arteries in relation to the aorta (Lecompte maneuver) was first described in 1981, its indications have continued to expand. In this review, we discuss the physiological basis and the expanding indications for this maneuver.
Troponin I Levels in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Following Congenital Heart Surgery
Authors: Rüffer André , Münch Frank , Potapov Sergej , Purbojo Ariawan , Toka Okan , Dodge-Khatami Ali , Dittrich Sven , Cesnjevar Robert Anton
Published: March 2014

Background:

Correlating postcardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) troponin I (TnI) levels and outcomes.

Methods:

Between January 2006 and August 2010, 34 patients needed postcardiotomy ECMO for low cardiac output. Bailout ECMO was required either after unsuccessful weaning from bypass (n = 17, 50%), postoperatively from prolonged hemodynamic failure (n = 8, 23.5%), or following resuscitation (n = 9, 26.5%). The TnI levels were measured following surgery or resuscitation during 10 days and compared between survivors (group I) and non-survivors (group II).

Results:

Median support duration was seven days (range: 0-31). Surgery involving hypoplastic aortic arch repair (Norwood palliation; n = 7, 20.6%, or biventricular repair; n = 11, 32.4%) led to most ECMO runs. Successful weaning from ECMO and hospital survival were 76.5% and 50%, respectively. In group I, peak TnI levels were reached by 24 hours postoperatively, comparable to levels in group II (36 ± 34 vs 49 ± 38 ng/mL; P = .98). However, in group II, TnI levels formed a plateau by the second postoperative day, whereas group I showed a steep decline in TnI levels, suggesting myocardial recovery ( P = .028). All patients (n = 4) who reached or maintained peak TnI levels at 48 hours died. On days 8, 9 and 10, TnI levels were significantly higher in group II ( P = .024, .019, and .013, respectively).

Conclusions:

Postcardiotomy ECMO was most commonly required after aortic arch repair. In the absence of ongoing myocardial insult due to ECMO hardware issues, coronary insufficiency or residual lesions, plateau TnI levels at 48 hours may seem to indicate an unfavorable outcome due to irreversible myocardial damage.
Left Ventricular Thrombus Formation After Repair of Anomalous Left Coronary Artery From the Pulmonary Artery
Authors: Freud Lindsay R. , Koenig Peter R. , Russell Hyde M. , Patel Angira
Published: March 2014

Although thrombus formation following myocardial infarction in adults is well known, intracardiac thrombosis in children is uncommon. We report the case of a large left ventricular thrombus in an infant with ischemic cardiomyopathy secondary to anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. Given its mobility and protrusion across the aortic valve, the patient underwent urgent thrombus removal through a transaortic approach. There were no embolic or neurologic complications. This case highlights that thrombectomy may be performed safely and successfully in critically ill pediatric patients.
Outcome of a Repair-Oriented Strategy for the Aortic Valve in Children
Authors: Kandakure Pramod , Prior Natasha , Soda Giri , Lim Joyce , Dhannapuneni Ram , Venugopal Prem , Alphonso Nelson
Published: March 2014

Background:

We sought to evaluate the mid-term results of a repair-oriented strategy of the aortic valve in children.

Methods:

Between February 2007 and November 2011, we performed 39 aortic valve repairs in children. Median age and weight at surgery were 5.5 years (3 days-18 years) and 16.7 kg (2.7-83.5), respectively. A total of 11 (28%) patients had one or more prior surgical or interventional cardiologic procedures. Median intensive care unit and hospital stay were two (1-96) and five (3-96) days, respectively. Median and cumulative follow-up were 12.7 months (15 days-64 months) and 48.9 patient-years, respectively.

Results:

There were 3 (7.7%) early deaths all in patients undergoing additional complex cardiac procedures. Two (5.1%) patients required early surgical revision. Twenty-six (66%) patients had isolated or mixed aortic stenosis. The median gradient reduced from 62.4 (range 16-144) to 17.6 mm Hg (range 0-51.8), postoperatively ( P = .02). At last follow-up, the median gradient remained largely unchanged at 21.1 mm Hg (0-49; P = .02). Twenty-six (66%) patients had isolated or mixed aortic valve regurgitation (mild in 8 [20%], moderate in 15 [38%], and severe in 6 ([15%] patients). The degree of aortic regurgitation improved in all patients with moderate or severe aortic regurgitation ( P = .04). At last follow-up, two patients had moderate aortic regurgitation. Kaplan Meier freedom from reintervention in the survivors was 95% at three years.

Conclusions:

A repair-oriented strategy for the aortic valve in children has satisfactory early and mid-term results and remains a promising management option in children with aortic valve disease.
Transmyocardial Migration of a Temporary Epicardial Pacing Wire
Authors: Gayanilo Marjorie A. , Rosenkranz Eliot R. , Sandhu Satinder K. , Kardon Richard E.
Published: March 2014

Transmyocardial migration of a retained temporary epicardial pacing wire has been rarely reported in adult patients after heart surgery. We present the case of a child in whom a temporary epicardial pacing wire was discovered incidentally in the right ventricular outflow tract one year after surgical repair of congenital heart disease. The pacing wire was subsequently extracted using the snare method during cardiac catheterization. Clinicians caring for patients after congenital heart surgery should be aware of this uncommon though potentially life-threatening complication.
Intermediate-Term Results of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support Following Congenital Heart Surgery
Authors: Peer Syed M. , Emerson Dominic A. , Costello John P. , Shu Michael K. , Zurakowski David , Jonas Richard A. , Berger John T. , Nath Dilip S.
Published: March 2014

Background:

Although there are considerable data regarding in-hospital results of congenital heart surgery (CHS) patients requiring postoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support, there is limited information on intermediate-term outcomes.

Methods:

A single-institution retrospective review of 25 consecutive postoperative CHS patients who required ECMO and survived to hospital discharge between January 2003 and June 2008. Survival was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results:

At a median follow-up of 3.3 years (interquartile range: 1.2-5.9 years), there was one death which occurred at six months postsurgery. Kaplan-Meier-estimated survival at three years was 95% (95% confidence interval: 90%-100%). Indications for ECMO included extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (48%), systemic hypoxia (4%), postoperative low-cardiac output syndrome (28%), and intraoperative failure to wean off cardiopulmonary bypass (20%). Following ECMO support, 65% of patients had unplanned cardiac reinterventions (three requiring operative interventions, six requiring percutaneous interventions, and four requiring both), and 47% of patients required unplanned hospitalizations. In all, 29% of patients developed neurological deficits and 12% of patients developed chronic respiratory failure. No patients developed renal failure. Overall, systemic ventricular (SV) function normalized in 83% of patients, whereas 17% of patients had persistent mild-to-moderate SV dysfunction.

Conclusions:

Intermediate-term patient survival of ECMO following CHS is encouraging. However, neurological impairment and unplanned cardiac reinterventions remain significant concerns. Further delineation of risk factors to improve patient outcomes is warranted.
Linking the Congenital Heart Surgery Databases of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the Congenital Heart Surgeons’ Society
Authors: Jacobs Jeffrey P. , Pasquali Sara K. , Austin Erle , Gaynor J. William , Backer Carl , Hirsch-Romano Jennifer C. , Williams William G. , Caldarone Christopher A. , McCrindle Brian W. , Graham Karen E. , Dokholyan Rachel S. , Shook Gregory J. , Poteat Jennifer , Baxi Maulik V. , Karamlou Tara , Blackstone Eugene H. , Mavroudis Constantine , Mayer John E. , Jonas Richard A. , Jacobs Marshall L.
Published: March 2014

Purpose:

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Congenital Heart Surgery Database (STS-CHSD) is the largest Registry in the world of patients who have undergone congenital and pediatric cardiac surgical operations. The Congenital Heart Surgeons’ Society Database (CHSS-D) is an Academic Database designed for specialized detailed analyses of specific congenital cardiac malformations and related treatment strategies. The goal of this project was to create a link between the STS-CHSD and the CHSS-D in order to facilitate studies not possible using either individual database alone and to help identify patients who are potentially eligible for enrollment in CHSS studies.

Methods:

Centers were classified on the basis of participation in the STS-CHSD, the CHSS-D, or both. Five matrices, based on CHSS inclusionary criteria and STS-CHSD codes, were created to facilitate the automated identification of patients in the STS-CHSD who meet eligibility criteria for the five active CHSS studies. The matrices were evaluated with a manual adjudication process and were iteratively refined. The sensitivity and specificity of the original matrices and the refined matrices were assessed.

Results:

In January 2012, a total of 100 centers participated in the STS-CHSD and 74 centers participated in the CHSS. A total of 70 centers participate in both and 40 of these 70 agreed to participate in this linkage project. The manual adjudication process and the refinement of the matrices resulted in an increase in the sensitivity of the matrices from 93% to 100% and an increase in the specificity of the matrices from 94% to 98%.

Conclusion:

Matrices were created to facilitate the automated identification of patients potentially eligible for the five active CHSS studies using the STS-CHSD. These matrices have a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 98%. In addition to facilitating identification of patients potentially eligible for enrollment in CHSS studies, these matrices will allow (1) estimation of the denominator of patients potentially eligible for CHSS studies and (2) comparison of eligible and enrolled patients to potentially eligible and not enrolled patients to assess the generalizability of CHSS studies.
Transposition of the Great Arteries—Outcomes and Time Interval of Early Neonatal Repair
Authors: Cain Michael T. , Cao Yumei , Ghanayem Nancy S. , Simpson Pippa M. , Trapp Katie , Mitchell Michael E. , Tweddell James S. , Woods Ronald K.
Published: March 2014

Background:

This study evaluates the relationship of morbidity and resource utilization with the timing of early neonatal repair of transposition of the great arteries and intact ventricular septum (d-TGA/IVS).

Methods:

All patients with d-TGA/IVS who underwent arterial switch in the first 14 days of life, between January 2000 and May 2011, were reviewed. Patients undergoing repair at ≤4 days of age were categorized as group I, 5 to 7 days as group II, and 8 to 14 days as group III. Outcomes included mortality, morbidity, and resource utilization.

Results:

Hospital survival was 69 (98.6%) of 70. The length of stay (LOS) and total charges were lowest in group I—15.5 days compared to group II—18.0 days and group III—23.5 days ( P = .005); group I—US$128,219 compared to group II—US$141,729 and group III—US$217,427 ( P = .0006). Using regression analysis to account for potentially confounding effects of multiple variables and treating time as a continuous variable demonstrated that age at surgery was significantly associated with total LOS ( P = .029), hospital charges ( P = .029) and intensive care unit charges ( P = .002). Younger age at repair was not associated with worse outcomes for any measure of morbidity.

Conclusions:

Earlier repair of d-TGA/IVS was associated with decreased resource utilization and no detriment to clinical outcomes. Further analysis based on a larger cohort of patients is needed to verify these results that have important implications for improving the value of care.
A Caenorhabditis elegans–based assay recognizes immunoglobulin light chains causing heart amyloidosis
Authors: Diomede Luisa , Rognoni Paola , Lavatelli Francesca , Romeo Margherita , del Favero Elena , Cantù Laura , Ghibaudi Elena , di Fonzo Andrea , Corbelli Alessandro , Fiordaliso Fabio , Palladini Giovanni , Valentini Veronica , Perfetti Vittorio , Salmona Mario , Merlini Giampaolo
Published: March 2014

Key Points

C elegans specifically recognizes cardiotoxic LCs as toxicants. This is an innovative model for studying the heart-specific toxicity of amyloidogenic LCs and developing new therapeutic strategies.
A new human mast cell line expressing a functional IgE receptor converts to tumorigenic growth by KIT D816V transfection
Authors: Saleh Rosine , Wedeh Ghaith , Herrmann Harald , Bibi Siham , Cerny-Reiterer Sabine , Sadovnik Irina , Blatt Katharina , Hadzijusufovic Emir , Jeanningros Sylvie , Blanc Catherine , Legarff-Tavernier Magali , Chapiro Elise , Nguyen-Khac Florence , Subra Frédéric , Bonnemye Patrick , Dubreuil Patrice , Desplat Vanessa , Merle-Béral Hélène , Willmann Michael , Rülicke Thomas , Valent Peter , Arock Michel
Published: March 2014

Key Points

ROSAKIT WT is a new human SCF-dependent FcεRI-positive mast cell line that converts to SCF-independence by KIT D816V-transfection. The FcεRI-positive ROSAKIT D816V clone is a major tool for studying cellular aspects of mastocytosis and responses to targeted drugs.
Spontaneous heparin-induced thrombocytopenia syndrome: 2 new cases and a proposal for defining this disorder
Authors: Warkentin Theodore E. , Basciano Paul A. , Knopman Jared , Bernstein Richard A.
Published: March 2014

Key Points

Two well-documented cases of a HIT-mimicking disorder without proximate heparin exposure (spontaneous HIT syndrome) are reported. The definition of spontaneous HIT syndrome should include strong serum-induced platelet activation at 0 IU/mL heparin (inhibited at 100 IU/mL).
Introgressive hybridization and latitudinal admixture clines in North Atlantic eels
Authors: Wielgoss Sébastien , Gilabert Aude , Meyer Axel , Wirth Thierry
Published: March 2014

Background

Hybridization, the interbreeding of diagnosably divergent species, is a major focus in evolutionary studies. Eels, both from North America and Europe migrate through the Atlantic to mate in a vast, overlapping area in the Sargasso Sea. Due to the lack of direct observation, it is unknown how these species remain reproductively isolated. The detection of inter-species hybrids in Iceland suggests on-going gene flow, but few studies to date have addressed the influence of introgression on genetic differentiation in North Atlantic eels.

Results

Here, we show that while mitochondrial lineages remain completely distinct on both sides of the Atlantic, limited hybridization is detectable with nuclear DNA markers. The nuclear hybridization signal peaks in the northern areas and decreases towards the southern range limits on both continents according to Bayesian assignment analyses. By simulating increasing proportions of both F1 hybrids and admixed individuals from the southern to the northern-most locations, we were able to generate highly significant isolation-by-distance patterns in both cases, reminiscent of previously published data for the European eel. Finally, fitting an isolation-with-migration model to our data supports the hypothesis of recent asymmetric introgression and refutes the alternative hypothesis of ancient polymorphism.

Conclusions

Fluctuating degrees of introgressive hybridization between Atlantic eel species are sufficient to explain temporally varying correlations of geographic and genetic distances reported for populations of the European eel.
Magnetotransport study on as-grown and annealed n- and p-type modulation-doped GaInNAs/GaAs strained quantum well structures
Authors: Dönmez Ömer , Sarcan Fahrettin , Erol Ayse , Gunes Mustafa , Arikan Mehmet Çetin , Puustinen Janne , Guina Mircea
Published: March 2014

We report the observation of thermal annealing- and nitrogen-induced effects on electronic transport properties of as-grown and annealed n- and p-type modulation-doped Ga1 - x
In
x
N
y
As1 - y
(x = 0.32, y = 0, 0.009, and 0.012) strained quantum well (QW) structures using magnetotransport measurements. Strong and well-resolved Shubnikov de Haas (SdH) oscillations are observed at magnetic fields as low as 3 T and persist to temperatures as high as 20 K, which are used to determine effective mass, 2D carrier density, and Fermi energy. The analysis of temperature dependence of SdH oscillations revealed that the electron mass enhances with increasing nitrogen content. Furthermore, even the current theory of dilute nitrides does not predict a change in hole effective mass; nitrogen dependency of hole effective mass is found and attributed to both strain- and confinement-induced effects on the valence band. Both electron and hole effective masses are changed after thermal annealing process. Although all samples were doped with the same density, the presence of nitrogen in n-type material gives rise to an enhancement in the 2D electron density compared to the 2D hole density as a result of enhanced effective mass due to the effect of nitrogen on conduction band. Our results reveal that effective mass and 2D carrier density can be tailored by nitrogen composition and thermal annealing-induced effects.

PACS

72.00.00; 72.15.Gd; 72.80.Ey
Gilded nanoparticles for plasmonically enhanced fluorescence in TiO2:Sm3+ sol-gel films
Authors: Pikker Siim , Dolgov Leonid , Heinsalu Siim , Mamykin Sergii , Kiisk Valter , Kopanchuk Sergei , Lõhmus Rünno , Sildos Ilmo
Published: March 2014

Silica-gold core-shell nanoparticles were used for plasmonic enhancement of rare earth fluorescence in sol-gel-derived TiO2:Sm3+ films. Local enhancement of Sm3+ fluorescence in the vicinity of separate gilded nanoparticles was revealed by a combination of dark field microscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. An intensity enhancement of Sm3+ fluorescence varies from 2.5 to 10 times depending on the used direct (visible) or indirect (ultraviolet) excitations. Analysis of fluorescence lifetimes suggests that the locally stronger fluorescence occurs because of higher plasmon-coupled direct absorption of exciting light by the Sm3+ ions or due to plasmon-assisted non-radiative energy transfer from the excitons of TiO2 host to the rare earth ions.

PACS

78; 78.67.-n; 78.67.Bf
Renal artery stenosis due to neurofibromatosis type 1: case report and literature review
Authors: Duan Lian , Feng Kai , Tong Anli , Liang Zhiyong
Published: March 2014

Background

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a relatively common autosomal dominant disorder. The most common vascular abnormality in patients with NF1 is bilateral or unilateral renal artery stenosis.

Case report

A 16-year-old boy presented with a headache of 4-year duration and was found to be moderately hypertensive. On physical examination, axillary freckling and multiple café-au-lait spots were revealed over the trunk, while numerous small nodules were palpable on the limbs. Biopsy of subcutaneous nodule showed neurofibroma. Lisch nodules were identified on slit-lamp examination and grade I hypertensive retinopathy was present on fundoscopy. Clinical laboratory investigations revealed that renal and liver function tests, blood cells count, urinalysis, serum electrolytes, serum levels of renin and aldosterone, and 24-hour urine levels of catecholamines were all within normal ranges. Abdominal ultrasound and CT were normal. Both kidneys were of normal size. CT angiography showed right renal artery stenosis (>90%) at the ostium. The final diagnosis of NF1 with right renal artery stenosis and secondary hypertension was then made. The patient was treated with Procardin (30 mg/d) and improved with a significant decline in blood pressure. The main outcomes were to control blood pressure without necessarily proceeding with PTRA. We also present a review of the literature.

Conclusions

NF1 may present with hypertension due to renal artery stenosis in children. All young patients (<30 year) with hypertension should be clinically screened for secondary causes of hypertension, including NF1, so that renal revascularization can be offered before permanent end organ damage has occurred. First-line management using medication alone could be appropriate, keeping the interventional options for when the patient's condition deteriorates.
Removal of reactive blue 19 from aqueous solution by pomegranate residual-based activated carbon: optimization by response surface methodology
Authors: Radaei Elham , Alavi Moghaddam Mohammad Reza , Arami Mokhtar
Published: March 2014

Background

In this research, response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to optimize Reactive Blue 19 removal by activated carbon from pomegranate residual. A 24 full factorial central composite design (CCD) was applied to evaluate the effects of initial pH, adsorbent dose, initial dye concentration, and contact time on the dye removal efficiency.

Methodology

The activated carbon prepared by 50 wt.% phosphoric acid activation under air condition at 500°C. The range of pH and initial dye concentration were selected in a way that considered a wide range of those variables. Furthermore, the range of contact time and adsorbent dose were determined based on initial tests. Levels of selected variables and 31 experiments were determined. MiniTab (version 16.1) was used for the regression and graphical analyses of the data obtained.

Results

It was found that the decrease of initial dye concentration and the increase of initial pH, adsorbent dose, and contact time are beneficial for improving the dye removal efficiency. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) results presented high R2 value of 99.17% for Reactive Blue 19 dye removal, which indicates the accuracy of the polynomial model is acceptable.

Conclusions

Initial pH of 11, adsorbent dose of 1.025 g/L, initial dye concentration of 100 mg/L, and contact time of 6.8 minutes found to be the optimum conditions. Dye removal efficiency of 98.7% was observed experimentally at optimum point which confirmed close to model predicted (98.1%) result.