bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Continuous Model for the Dynamical Analysis of Mistuned Bladed Rotors
Authors: Bisegna Paolo , Caruso Giovanni
Published: April 2012

Ideal bladed rotors are rotationally symmetric, as a consequence they exhibit couples of degenerate eigenmodes at coinciding frequencies. When even small imperfections are present destroying the periodicity of the structure (disorder or mistuning), each couple of degenerate eigenfrequencies splits into two distinct values (frequency split) and the corresponding modal shapes exhibit vibration amplitude peaks concentrated around few blades (localization phenomenon). In this paper a continuous model describing the in-plane vibrations of a mistuned bladed rotor is derived via the homogenization theory. Imperfections are accounted for as deviations of the mass and/or stiffness of some blades from the design value; a perturbation approach is adopted in order to investigate the frequency split and localization phenomena arising in the imperfect structure. Numerical simulations show the effectiveness of the proposed model, requiring much lower computational effort than classical finite element schemes.
Congenital Anomalies and Termination of Pregnancy in Iran
Authors: Samadirad Bahram , Khamnian Zhila , Hosseini Mohammad Bager , Dastgiri Saeed
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to document some epidemiological features of termination of pregnancy for birth defects in Iran. We studied 603 pregnant women who were diagnosed/recommended for the termination of pregnancy as having a fetus with some types of birth defect(s). Most women (87.2 percent) had at least one ultrasound examination. The proportion of other screening tests including amniocentesis and genetic tests were 2.8 and 4.6 percent, respectively. Of 603 women, 201 terminated the pregnancy giving a prevalence rate of 33.3 percent (CI 95%: 29.6–37.6). The remaining 402 subjects were unable to get the permission for abortion because of untimely diagnosis/application for termination (20th week of pregnancy and/or later). Forty-eight percent of termination of pregnancies was performed before the 18th week of pregnancy. Neural tube defects, limb deformation, hydrops fetalis, hydrocephaly, and chromosomal anomalies including Down syndrome accounted proportionally for about 65 percent of defects eligible for abortion in the region. Although the rate of termination of pregnancy for birth defects is acceptable at the current situation in the country, more efforts should still be made to convince the community authorities to give more possibility and ease for the termination of pregnancy for congenital anomalies.
Early Pollen Sensitization in Children Is Dependent upon Regional Aeroallergen Exposure
Authors: Wong Vanessa , Wilson Nevin W. , Peele Kathy , Hogan Mary Beth
Published: April 2012

Introduction. Aeroallergen sensitization occurs at an earlier age than previously noted. The purpose of this paper was to identify which pollens cause early sensitization in young children presenting with rhinitis symptoms. Methods. This paper was a retrospective analysis of skin test results from 2- to 8-year-old patients presenting with a history consistent with allergic rhinitis. Patients were tested to aeroallergens common to the Great Basin along with a histamine and saline control. Pollen counts were obtained from a Reno, NV-certified counting station. Results. 123 children less than 8 years of age were identified. Over 50% of these children were sensitized to at least one aeroallergen. Chemopodaciae, timothy, alfalfa, black walnut, olive, mountain cedar and willow were predominating sensitizing aeroallergens of the Great Basin Region. Pollen counts were notable for a early spring peak for the tree season, grass season in May and weed season in August. Pollen levels continued to November at low levels. Discussion. Aeroallergens causing early sensitization differed from those which had predominately been reported in other regions of the United States. Pediatric allergists should consider performing a local review of sensitizing aeroallergens in their region to assist with identification and management of allergic rhinitis in their youngest patients. Please make style changes as appropriate.
Generalized AOR Method for Solving Absolute Complementarity Problems
Authors: Noor Muhammad Aslam , Iqbal Javed , Noor Khalida Inayat , Al-Said E.
Published: April 2012

We introduce and consider a new class of complementarity problems, which is called the absolute value complementarity problem. We establish the equivalence between the absolute complementarity problems and the fixed point problem using the projection operator. This alternative equivalent formulation is used to discuss the existence of a solution of the absolute value complementarity problem. A generalized AOR method is suggested and analyzed for solving the absolute the complementarity problems. We discuss the convergence of generalized AOR method for the L‐matrix. Several examples are given to illustrate the implementation and efficiency of the method. Results are very encouraging and may stimulate further research in this direction.
Approximation of Solutions of an Equilibrium Problem in a Banach Space
Authors: Yuan Hecai , Shi Guohong
Published: April 2012

An equilibrium problem is investigated based on a hybrid projection iterative
algorithm. Strong convergence theorems for solutions of the equilibrium problem are established in a
strictly convex and uniformly smooth Banach space which also enjoys the Kadec‐Klee property.
Applications of Fixed‐Point and Optimization Methods to the Multiple‐Set Split Feasibility Problem
Authors: Yao Yonghong , Chen Rudong , Marino Giuseppe , Liou Yeong Cheng
Published: April 2012

The multiple‐set split feasibility problem requires finding a point closest to a
family of closed convex sets in one space such that its image under a linear transformation
will be closest to another family of closed convex sets in the image space.
It can be a model for many inverse problems where constraints are imposed on the
solutions in the domain of a linear operator as well as in the operator’s range. It
generalizes the convex feasibility problem as well as the two‐set split feasibility
problem. In this paper, we will review and report some recent results on iterative approaches
to the multiple‐set split feasibility problem.
Inducible Silencing of Protein Kinase D3 Inhibits Secretion of Tumor-Promoting Factors in Prostate Cancer
Authors: LaValle Courtney R. , Zhang Liyong , Xu Shuping , Eiseman Julie L. , Wang Q. Jane
Published: April 2012

Protein kinase D (PKD) acts as a major mediator of several signaling pathways related to cancer development. Aberrant PKD expression and activity have been shown in multiple cancers, and novel PKD inhibitors show promising anticancer activities. Despite these advances, the mechanisms through which PKD contributes to the pathogenesis of cancer remain unknown. Here, we establish a novel role for PKD3, the least studied member of the PKD family, in the regulation of prostate cancer cell growth and motility through modulation of secreted tumor-promoting factors. Using both a stable inducible knockdown cell model and a transient knockdown system using multiple siRNAs, we show that silencing of endogenous PKD3 significantly reduces prostate cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In addition, conditioned medium from PKD3-knockdown cells exhibits less migratory potential compared with that from control cells. Further analysis indicated that depletion of PKD3 blocks secretion of multiple key tumor-promoting factors including matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and GROα but does not alter mRNA transcript levels for these factors, implying impairment of the secretory pathway. More significantly, inducible depletion of PKD3 in a subcutaneous xenograft model suppresses tumor growth and decreases levels of intratumoral GROα in mice. These data validate PKD3 as a promising therapeutic target in prostate cancer and shed light on the role of secreted tumor-promoting factors in prostate cancer progression. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(7); 1389–99. ©2012 AACR.
CDK-4 Inhibitor P276 Sensitizes Pancreatic Cancer Cells to Gemcitabine-Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Subramaniam Dharmalingam , Periyasamy Giridharan , Ponnurangam Sivapriya , Chakrabarti Debarshi , Sugumar Aravind , Padigaru Muralidhara , Weir Scott J. , Balakrishnan Arun , Sharma Somesh , Anant Shrikant
Published: April 2012

Despite advances in molecular pathogenesis, pancreatic cancer remains a major unsolved health problem. It is a rapidly invasive, metastatic tumor that is resistant to standard therapies. The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/Akt and mTOR signaling pathways are frequently dysregulated in pancreatic cancer. Gemcitabine is the mainstay treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer. P276 is a novel CDK inhibitor that induces G2/M arrest and inhibits tumor growth in vivo models. Here, we determined that P276 sensitizes pancreatic cancer cells to gemcitabine-induced apoptosis, a mechanism-mediated through inhibition of Akt-mTOR signaling. In vitro, the combination of P276 and gemcitabine resulted in a dose- and time-dependent inhibition of proliferation and colony formation of pancreatic cancer cells but not with normal pancreatic ductal cells. This combination also induced apoptosis, as seen by activated caspase-3 and increased Bax/Bcl2 ratio. Gene profiling studies showed that this combination downregulated Akt-mTOR signaling pathway, which was confirmed by Western blot analyses. There was also a downregulation of VEGF and interleukin-8 expression suggesting effects on angiogenesis pathway. In vivo, intraperitoneal administration of the P276-Gem combination significantly suppressed the growth of pancreatic cancer tumor xenografts. There was a reduction in CD31-positive blood vessels and reduced VEGF expression, again suggesting an effect on angiogenesis. Taken together, these data suggest that P276-Gem combination is a novel potent therapeutic agent that can target the Akt-mTOR signaling pathway to inhibit both tumor growth and angiogenesis. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(7); 1598–608. ©2012 AACR.
Effusion Cytology of Granulocytic Sarcoma in an Unusual Clinical Scenario: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Singh Geetika , Agarwal Shipra , Iyer Venkateswaran K. , Sharma Atul , Chopra Anita , Mathur Sandeep R.
Published: April 2012

Background: Presentation of granulocytic sarcoma (GS) as an effusion is very rare and most cases are misdiagnosed as lymphoma infiltration. Detailed descriptions of cytological features of GS in an effusion have not been published to date. Case Report: We present the case of a 35-year-old male who presented clinically with a mediastinal mass, peripheral lymphadenopathy and pleural/pericardial effusion. His effusion cytology showed an atypical morphology. Immature cells with marked nuclear indentation/convolution, fine nuclear chromatin, conspicuous nucleoli and a moderate amount of cytoplasm were seen, without any granularity. GS was suspected based on the abnormal nuclear contours and fine nuclear chromatin, and was confirmed by lymph node fine needle aspiration and biopsy with immunocytochemistry. Conclusion: Abnormal nuclear contours are a significant marker in effusion cytology and provide an important morphological clue to the diagnosis of a myeloid malignancy in addition to fine nuclear chromatin especially in the absence of cytoplasmic granularity. In this case, these features helped to suspect the diagnosis despite a clinical scenario suggestive of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Large Cell Transformation of Mycosis Fungoides on Fine Needle Aspiration: An Unusual Case Mimicking Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Subhawong A.P. , Subhawong T.K. , Ali S.Z.
Published: April 2012

Mycosis fungoides (MF), the most common type of primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, undergoes large cell transformation in only a minority of cases that present in patch stage. We describe a 52-year-old patient with a history of unilesional patch stage MF treated with localized radiotherapy. He had disease recurrence 5 years later and began psoralen plus ultraviolet A treatment with good response. After inguinal lymphadenopathy was detected on physical examination, a follow-up PET scan showed a fluorodeoxyglucose-avid inguinal node, which was evaluated by fine needle aspiration. Cytomorphology showed numerous Reed-Sternberg-like cells, highly suspicious for Hodgkin lymphoma. Histologic sections revealed isolated sinusoidal involvement by pleomorphic CD30-positive tumor cells, diagnostic of large cell transformation of MF in light of clinical history. The cells were also positive for CD15 and CD4. This case emphasizes morphologic features of an entity with limited description in the cytology literature and adds to the growing number of reported CD15-positive T-cell lymphomas.
Fine Needle Aspirate of Autoimmune Pancreatitis (Lymphoplasmacytic Sclerosing Pancreatitis): Cytomorphologic Characteristics and Clinical Correlates
Authors: Holmes Brittany J. , Hruban Ralph H. , Wolfgang Christopher L. , Ali Syed Z.
Published: April 2012

Objective: Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is an inflammatory, IgG4-associated condition that often overlaps clinically and radiographically with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. We reviewed our institutional experience with fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology in patients subsequently diagnosed with AIP. Study Design: A retrospective review was conducted of FNA results correlating to all surgical pancreatic specimens diagnosed as AIP or lymphoplasmacytic sclerosing pancreatitis from 1984 to 2011. Results: AIP was diagnosed in 15 cases by surgical resection and in 2 by combined clinical findings and nondiagnostic biopsies. Of 20 aspirates from 17 patients, 1 was diagnosed as malignant, 1 as neoplasm (mucinous), 10 as atypical, 5 as benign, and 3 as scant or nondiagnostic. Of the 10 aspirates diagnosed as atypical, 1 was suspicious for malignancy, 1 could not exclude neuroendocrine neoplasm, 1 was markedly atypical, and 7 demonstrated scattered ductal atypia. Common morphologic features included hypocellularity, focal-to-marked ductal epithelial atypia, fibrous tissue fragments, and a smear background lacking red blood cells. Conclusion: On FNA, AIP most often leads to an ‘atypical’ cytopathologic interpretation and rarely may be diagnosed as adenocarcinoma. Thus, caution is warranted to avoid overdiagnosis on FNA when a mass lesion is reported in a patient with clinical or radiographic suspicion of AIP.
Spatiotemporal Distribution of Neurovascular Alignment in Remodeling Adult Rat Mesentery Microvascular Networks
Authors: Stapor Peter C. , Murfee Walter L.
Published: April 2012

An emerging area of microvascular research focuses on the links between neural and vascular patterning. However, the functional dependence between vascular and neural growth in adult tissues remains underinvestigated. The objective of this study was to determine the spatial and temporal coordination between vascular and neural networks over a time course of adult microvascular growth. Mesentery tissues from adult male Wistar rats were harvested prior to stimulation, and 2, 10 and 30 days after angiogenesis stimulated by mast cell degranulation. Tissues were immunolabeled for PECAM (endothelial cell marker) and class III β-tubulin (peripheral nerve marker). Neurovascular alignment was quantified per vessel category: arterioles (>20 µm), pre-capillary arterioles (10–20 µm), post-capillary venules (10–20 µm), venules (>20 µm), capillaries (<10 µm) and capillary sprouts. Neurovascular alignment along pre-capillary arterioles, capillaries, post-capillary venules and venules was decreased compared to unstimulated levels on days 2 and 10. These decreases inversely correlated with increases in vessel density per vessel category. By day 30, alignment either returned to unstimulated levels or was increased compared to day 10. These results suggest that neurovascular alignment arises after microvascular network growth and is present along arterioles, venules and even capillaries.
Cytological Assessment of Healing Palatal Donor Site Wounds and Grafted Gingival Wounds after Application of Ozonated Oil: An Eighteen-Month Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Patel Punit Vaibhav , Kumar Sheela , Vidya G.D. , Patel Amrita , Holmes Julian C. , Kumar Veerendra
Published: April 2012

Objective: The present study was undertaken to assess the therapeutic effects of topical ozonated oil on early healing of free gingival graft surgical sites. Study Design: Twenty subjects were entered into this triple-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, designed to evaluate the efficacy of ozonated oil on free gingival graft surgical wounds. Subjects were assigned to either the ozone group, in which ozonated oil was applied to the surgical wound, or the control group, in which non-ozonated oil was used as a control. Patients were postoperatively evaluated by cytological analysis. Cytological analysis consisted of the keratinisation and superficial cell indices measured at baseline, after 24 h, on the 3rd, 7th, 14th and 21st day and 2, 3, 8 and 18 months postoperatively. Results: Cytological results showed that there was a significant (p < 0.001) improvement in epithelial healing by the 7th, 14th and 21st day and 2, 3 and 8 months postoperatively in the ozone group compared to the control group. Conclusion: The present study showed significant improvement in epithelial healing and gingival health after topical application of ozone-treated plant oil to gingival surgical sites.
Increase in Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Met Allele Carriers of the BDNF Val66Met Polymorphism Is Specific to Males
Authors: Bus Boudewijn A.A. , Arias-Vasquez Alejandro , Franke Barbara , Prickaerts Jos , de Graaf Jacqueline , Voshaar Richard C. Oude
Published: April 2012

Background: Association studies of the Val66Met polymorphism and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels have yielded conflicting results. Recently, sex-specific differences in BDNF levels were demonstrated. As these might explain the reported inconsistencies, we tested sex interactions with the Val66Met genotype on serum BDNF level. Methods: Participants (n = 548, age range 50–72 years; mean 62.8 ± 5.4 years, 267 males) were tested for rs6265 genotype and serum BDNF levels [Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE), p = 0.04]. A regression analysis with BDNF level as the dependent variable and BDNF Val66Met genotype as an independent variable was used to test the sex interaction corrected for age, smoking and depressive symptoms. Subsequently, we examined the effect of genotype on BDNF levels stratified for sex. Results: We found a significant interaction between sex and genotype on BDNF levels (p = 0.02). Male Met carriers had significantly higher BDNF levels than Val/Val homozygotes (β = 0.17, p = 0.013), while in females no effect of Val66Met genotype was found (β = –0.07, p = 0.28). Conclusion: Our findings may partly explain the inconsistent findings of earlier studies where results were influenced by male-female ratios. Replication is warranted, however, as our sample was not in HWE.
Elevated Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Poor Prognosis in Advanced Colorectal Cancer Patients Receiving Oxaliplatin-Based Chemotherapy
Authors: Kaneko Manabu , Nozawa Hiroaki , Sasaki Kazuhito , Hongo Kumiko , Hiyoshi Masaya , Tada Noriko , Murono Koji , Nirei Takako , Kawai Kazushige , Sunami Eiji , Tsuno Nelson H. , Kitayama Joji
Published: April 2012

Background: The aim of this study was to assess whether the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and other laboratory markers may predict the prognosis of advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) patients receiving palliative chemotherapy. Methods: The study population included 50 patients with far advanced or recurrent unresectable CRC who received oxaliplatin-based combination chemotherapy as first-line treatment in our hospital between June 2005 and November 2010. Seven clinical variables and 7 laboratory indices before chemotherapy were evaluated retrospectively as the possible prognostic factors of overall and progression-free survival. Results: During the study period, 27 patients (54%) died of CRC. Elevated NLR (≥4.0) was observed in 15 patients (30%). By univariate analysis, elevated NLR, performance status and hypoalbuminemia were significantly associated with both poor overall and progression-free survivals. Multivariate analysis showed that elevated NLR (hazard ratio 4.39, 95% confidence interval 1.82–10.7; p = 0.0013) and thrombocytosis (hazard ratio 5.02, 95% confidence interval 1.69–13.4; p = 0.0066) were independently associated with overall survival. Conclusion: Elevated NLR is a powerful predictor of poor response to oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with unresectable CRC. The ratio is a simply accessible and inexpensive but useful biomarker in CRC patients receiving chemotherapy.
Population-Based Prevalence of Abnormal Cervical Cytology Findings and Local Risk Factors in Ibadan, Nigeria: Implications for Cervical Cancer Control Programs and Human Papilloma Virus Immunization
Authors: Thomas J.O. , Ojemakinde K.O. , Ajayi I.O. , Omigbodun A.O. , Fawole O.I. , Oladepo O.
Published: April 2012

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of abnormal cervical cytological findings and local risk factors in Ibadan, Nigeria. Study Design: All women aged ≥15 years in each household in Idikan, Ibadan, were invited to participate in a population-based study. Structured questionnaires were administered to all consenting women. Conventional cervical Papanicolaou smears obtained from sexually active women were classified using the 2001 Bethesda system. The diagnoses were correlated with sociodemographic data and risk factors. Results: Of 2,870 women aged ≥15 years estimated to live in Idikan, 1,204 sexually active women consented to pelvic examination and cervical smears. Results were available for 1,104 women (mean age: 39.8 years). Mean ages at menarche, first sexual intercourse and first pregnancy were 16.1, 20.3 and 20.7 years, respectively. Cytological results were categorized into atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and atypical glandular cells 22 (1.99%); low-grade 43 (3.89%) and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) 17 (1.54%); invasive cancer 2 (0.18%) and normal 593 (53.8%) and reactive changes 427 (38.7%). The prevalence of epithelial abnormalities is 7.6%. Significant host-related factors in those with HSIL and invasive cancer included older age (mean 56.2 years), high parity and gravidity, lack of formal education and being divorced (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study provides prevalence data and local risk factors for abnormal cervical cytology in a Nigerian population, which will be useful for planning future cervical cancer control programs.
Oral Mucosal Morphea: A New Variant
Authors: Tang M.M. , Bornstein M.M. , Irla N. , Beltraminelli H. , Lombardi T. , Borradori L.
Published: April 2012

Morphea is a cutaneous disorder characterized by an excessive collagen deposition. While in almost all cases the sclerosing process exclusively affects the skin, there are anecdotal cases in which associated mucosal involvement has been described. We here report the case of a woman developing a whitish indurated plaque over the left upper vestibular mucosa and hard palate leading to dental mobility and exposure of the roots of several teeth. Cone beam computed tomography of the left maxilla showed bone resorption involving the upper cuspid to the second molar region with widened periodontal ligament spaces, while light microscopy studies demonstrated epithelial atrophy and fibrosis of the dermis extending into the submucosa with hyalinization of subepithelial collagen. Our observation expands the spectrum of clinical presentations of morphea and provides the first example of isolated oral morphea. Its recognition is important to avoid significant local complications.
Does Mitosis-Specific Marker Phosphohistone H3 Help the Grading of Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinomas in Cell Blocks?
Authors: Solomides Charalambos C. , Birbe Ruth C. , Nicolaou Nicos , Bagley Demetrius , Bibbo Marluce
Published: April 2012

Background: Grading upper tract urothelial carcinomas (UTUC) in cell blocks with small distorted tissue fragments can be challenging; interobserver agreement is poor among pathologists. Mitotic figure (MF) counting along with nuclear features is important in grading these tumors. We evaluated the use of the mitotic-specific marker phosphohistone H3 (PHH3) as an adjunct to hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain for grading UTUC in cell blocks. Methods: Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from the cell blocks of 61 UTUC were stained with H&E and PHH3 antibody. The grading of tumors was performed independently by 3 pathologists, on both H&E-stained and PHH3 plus H&E-stained slides. The grading system used was the 1973 WHO 3-point grading system. Gradings were compared by all the pathologists for H&E staining versus PHH3 plus H&E staining with the Stuart-Maxwell test of marginal homogeneity that accounts for the matched data. Results: The average pairwise agreement by H&E alone was 55%, and 80% by PHH3 plus H&E. Conclusion: By adding PHH3 immunostain to the H&E, the agreement in grading the carcinomas among the 3 pathologists improved dramatically. PHH3 immunostain may play an important role in grading UTUC in small cell block samples.
Usefulness of Discriminant Analysis Using Nuclear Three-Dimensional Analysis in Atypical Cells Prepared from Bronchial Brushing Cytology Cases That Are Cytologically Challenging
Authors: Washiya Kiyotada , Noro Tsukasa , Narumi Kenta , Kurose Akira , Yoshioka Haruhiko , Watanabe Jun
Published: April 2012

Objective: Since well-differentiated adenocarcinoma cells of the lung (G1 cancer cells) show mild atypia, their differentiation from benign columnar epithelial cells (benign cells) is often difficult based on morphology. We performed discriminant analysis to distinguish benign from malignant cells by measuring 3-dimensional (3D) changes in nuclear luminance. Study Design: Discriminant analysis of 231 atypical cells prepared by bronchial brushing cytology, which were difficult to morphologically classify as benign or malignant, was performed using 100 G1 cancer cells. One hundred benign cells of bronchial brushing cytology specimens served as controls. The number of pixels of the nucleus, the number of focus layers and the level of change in the coefficient of variation (CV) of nuclear luminance between layers (3D-CV) were used as analytic parameters, and benign cells were discriminated from malignant cells based on the Mahalanobis distance. Results: As a result of discriminant analysis using a cutoff value determined in the control group, about 90% of the atypical cells difficult to classify as benign or malignant could be classified. Conclusion: For cells difficult to morphologically classify as benign or malignant, discriminant analysis based on 3D changes in nuclear luminance may be useful. This method can provide objective parameters for cancer diagnosis.
Risk of Arrhythmia and Sudden Death in Patients With Asymptomatic Preexcitation
Authors: Obeyesekere Manoj N. , Leong-Sit Peter , Massel David , Manlucu Jaimie , Modi Simon , Krahn Andrew D. , Skanes Allan C. , Yee Raymond , Gula Lorne J. , Klein George J.
Published: April 2012

Background—

The incidence of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and the management of this risk in patients with asymptomatic preexcitation remain controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to define the incidence of SCD and supraventricular tachycardia in patients with asymptomatic Wolff-Parkinson-White ECG pattern.

Methods and Results—

We performed a systematic search of prospective, retrospective, randomized, or cohort English-language studies in EMBASE and Medline through February 2011. Studies reporting asymptomatic patients with preexcitation who did not undergo ablation were included. Twenty studies involving 1869 patients met our inclusion criteria. Participants were primarily male with a mean age ranging from 7 to 43 years. Ten SCDs were reported involving 11 722 person-years of follow-up. Seven studies originated from Italy and reported 9 SCDs. The risk of SCD is estimated at 1.25 per 1000 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57–2.19). A total of 156 supraventricular tachycardias were reported involving 9884 person-years from 18 studies. The risk of supraventricular tachycardia was 16 (95% CI, 10–24) events per 1000 person-years of follow-up. Children had numerically higher SCD (1.93 [95% CI, 0.57–4.1] versus 0.86 [95% CI, 0.28–1.75];
P
=0.07) and supraventricular tachycardia (20 [95% CI, 12–31] versus 14 [95% CI, 6–25];
P
=0.38) event rates compared with adults.

Conclusion—

The low incidence of SCD and low risk of supraventricular tachycardia argue against routine invasive management in most asymptomatic patients with the Wolff-Parkinson-White ECG pattern.
Robustness of Dynamical Feedbacks from Radiative Forcing: 2% Solar versus 2 × CO2 Experiments in an Idealized GCM
Authors: Cai Ming , Tung Ka-Kit
Published: April 2012

Despite the differences in the spatial patterns of the external forcing associated with a doubling CO2 and with a 2% solar variability, the final responses in the troposphere and at the surface in a three-dimensional general circulation model appear remarkably similar. Various feedback processes are diagnosed and compared using the climate feedback–response analysis method (CFRAM) to understand the mechanisms responsible.

At the surface, solar radiative forcing is stronger in the tropics than at the high latitudes, whereas greenhouse radiative forcing is stronger at high latitudes compared with the tropics. Also solar forcing is positive everywhere in the troposphere and greenhouse radiative forcing is positive mainly in the lower troposphere. The water vapor feedback strengthens the upward-decreasing radiative heating profile in the tropics and the poleward-decreasing radiative heating profile in the lower troposphere. The “evaporative” and convective feedbacks play an important role only in the tropics where they act to reduce the warming at the surface and lower troposphere in favor of upper-troposphere warming. Both water vapor feedback and enhancement of convection in the tropics further strengthen the initial poleward-decreasing profile of energy flux convergence perturbations throughout the troposphere. As a result, the large-scale dynamical poleward energy transport, which acts on the negative temperature gradient, is enhanced in both cases, contributing to a polar amplification of warming aloft and a warming reduction in the tropics. The dynamical amplification of polar atmospheric warming also contributes additional warming to the surface below via downward thermal radiation.
Eastern Patagonia Seasonal Precipitation: Influence of Southern Hemisphere Circulation and Links with Subtropical South American Precipitation
Authors: Berman Ana Laura , Silvestri Gabriel , Compagnucci Rosa
Published: April 2012

Some aspects of the seasonal precipitation over eastern Patagonia, the southernmost area of South America east of the Andes Cordillera, are examined in this paper. Results indicate that the central-north areas, the southern continental region, and the southernmost islands are three independent regions of seasonal precipitation, and that each of them is associated with specific patterns of atmospheric circulation. Precipitation over the central-north region is significantly related to the precipitation over a wide area of southern South America east of the Andes during the four seasons. Enhanced (reduced) precipitation over this area is associated with weakened (intensified) westerly flow in the region. Precipitation over the southern continental area has a close connection with the dipolar pattern of precipitation over subtropical South America during spring, summer, and autumn. The anomalies of atmospheric circulation at low and upper levels associated with the subtropical dipole are also able to modulate the intensity of the westerlies over the south of eastern Patagonia, affecting the regional precipitation. Precipitation over the islands of the southernmost part of eastern Patagonia is connected with subtropical precipitation in summer and winter. The activity of frontal systems associated with migratory perturbations moving to the east along the Southern Hemisphere storm tracks modulates the variability of seasonal precipitation over this region.
Is the effectiveness of tobacco image-based warning labels likely to vary by socio-demographic variable? Findings from an online survey of 19,000 members of the UK Public
Authors: Styles Maggie , Williams Brian , Humphris Gerry
Published: April 2012

Objective:

Smoking continues to be a major global cause of mortality and morbidity. Countries have increasingly adopted the use of images as warnings on cigarette packs. We aimed to investigate the likely differential impact of varied images and messages on sub-groups of the United Kingdom (UK) smoking population.

Methods:

Forty two images developed and approved by the European Union (EU) were viewed by participants in an online survey. Respondents indicated which images they felt would most effectively reduce rates of smoking. Socio-demographic data was sought from participating adults including age, sex, occupation, ethnicity and current smoking behaviour. There were 19,810 participants in the survey.

Results:

Three images, with graphic content, were found to consistently stand out as the most popular across all sub-groups. Smokers (as opposed to ex- and non-smokers) and men were found to vote for significantly fewer images, potentially indicating greater scepticism regarding the efficacy of images. Significant socio-demographic variations across a number of images were found suggesting that particular images and messages may have a differential impact on particular sub-groups.

Conclusion:

Images may vary significantly in their impact on different social sub-groups. Careful consideration is required when selecting which images to use. Attaching images targeting a sub-group to tobacco brands with that socio-demographic market may enhance the effectiveness of such warnings.
A qualitative analysis of influences on recovery following a first episode of psychosis
Authors: Windell Deborah , Norman Ross MG
Published: April 2012

Background:

Understanding perceived influences on recovery following a first episode of psychosis could help improve services.

Material:

Thematic analysis was used to examine important influences on early recovery identified by 30 individuals receiving services in an early intervention programme.

Discussion:

Social support, medication, meaningful activities and lifestyle modification were identified as helpful, and stigma, substance abuse and medication side effects as harmful. Perceptions of benefits of social support and the negative effects of stigma were particularly prominent.

Conclusions:

Results suggest the importance of assistance with engagement in valued activities and relationships, and provision of messages of worth and hope for recovery.
Gendering the Bricks and Mortar: Building an Opportunity Structure for Equality Bargaining
Authors: Williamson Sue
Published: April 2012

Research in the United Kingdom and Europe has found that an ‘opportunity structure’ enabling collective bargaining for the inclusion of family provisions into a workplace agreement occurs when a range of national, industry and organizational factors converge. Limited research in this area, however, has been conducted in Australia. This article addresses this gap by analysing collective bargaining for family provisions (such as paid maternity leave) in two female-dominated organizations in Australia. This article shows that an opportunity structure – built on public policy development and democratic, feminist union leadership – also existed in Australia in 2008 and 2009, making ‘equality bargaining’ possible for public sector workplace negotiations. The case studies also show, however, that factors including the economic environment and a centralized union leadership weakened an opportunity structure for workplace negotiations in the retail sector.
Responsiveness-to-Intervention
Authors: Fuchs Lynn S. , Vaughn Sharon
Published: April 2012

In this introduction to this special issue, “A Decade Later,” we provide an overview of the accomplishments as well as the persistent questions surrounding RTI. We organize this discussion within 3 categories: assessment, instruction, and policy. Within each of these sections, we also highlight how the articles in the present special issue expand upon the key issues. Developed initially for the early grades (kindergarten through third grade) and primarily in the area of reading, many-although not all-of these issues speak to the expansion of RTI to address a broader set of academic content areas and the full range of grade levels.
The Multiple Dimensions of Managerial Networking
Authors: Torenvlied René , Akkerman Agnes , Meier Kenneth J. , O’Toole Laurence J.
Published: April 2012

Studies in public management show that agencies draw different types of support from different actors and organizations in their environment. If this is true, we would expect that managers differentiate their networking activity toward different types of external actors and organizations. However, empirical studies of the networking activities of managers do not reveal such a differentiation: these studies consistently report the existence of only one factor of managerial networking activity. The present article aims to solve this puzzle by disaggregating managerial networking into multiple scales of managerial networking activity, each related to a specific type of support from the agency’s environment. A cumulative scaling analysis of the network ties of Texas school district superintendents for the years 2002 and 2005 shows the existence of three such stable and homogeneous networking scales, respectively, providing (a) political support, (b) bureaucratic coping, and (c) coproduction. We compare these results with those of the method used in previous studies: factor analysis. We illustrate the potential of cumulative scaling for the analysis of managerial networking by comparing the effect of the managerial networking factor with those of the three networking scales on the pass rates of Latino students on the Texas Assessment of Academic Skills. The article concludes with a discussion of the implications for our understanding of managerial networking.
Classification of Childhood Epilepsies in a Tertiary Pediatric Neurology Clinic Using a Customized Classification Scheme From the International League Against Epilepsy 2010 Report
Authors: Khoo Teik-Beng
Published: April 2012

In its 2010 report, the International League Against Epilepsy Commission on Classification and Terminology had made a number of changes to the organization, terminology, and classification of seizures and epilepsies. This study aims to test the usefulness of this revised classification scheme on children with epilepsies aged between 0 and 18 years old. Of 527 patients, 75.1% only had 1 type of seizure and the commonest was focal seizure (61.9%). A specific electroclinical syndrome diagnosis could be made in 27.5%. Only 2.1% had a distinctive constellation. In this cohort, 46.9% had an underlying structural, metabolic, or genetic etiology. Among the important causes were pre-/perinatal insults, malformation of cortical development, intracranial infections, and neurocutaneous syndromes. However, 23.5% of the patients in our cohort were classified as having “epilepsies of unknown cause.” The revised classification scheme is generally useful for pediatric patients. To make it more inclusive and clinically meaningful, some local customizations are required.
Valproic Acid Enhances Glucose Transport in the Cultured Brain Astrocytes of Glucose Transporter 1 Heterozygous Mice
Authors: Kim Sung-Koo , Yang Hong , Pascual Juan M. , De Vivo Darryl C.
Published: April 2012

Glucose transporter 1 facilitates glucose transport across the blood–brain barrier. By increasing histone acetylation at the SLC2A1 promotor, valproic acid could increase SLC2A1 gene expression. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of valproic acid on glucose transport in astrocyte cultures derived from SLC2A1 heterozygous mice. Primary astrocyte cultures were prepared from the cerebral cortex of 1-day-old neonatal mice. Cultured astrocytes were incubated with valproic acid (0.05, 0.5, and 5 mM) for 48 hours. On day 3, the glucose uptake capacity of the astrocytes was measured by using 14C-2-Deoxy-d-glucose under zero-trans conditions. The heterozygous astrocyte glucose uptake treated with valproic acid (0.05 and 0.5 mM) for 48 hours was significantly increased compared with the untreated control heterozygous astrocytes. Our findings demonstrate that valproic acid increased glucose transport capacity in SLC2A1 heterozygous cerebral astrocytes.
Reversible Diffusion Weighted Imaging Changes in Propionic Acidemia
Authors: Kandel Amit , Amatya Sirisa Kandel , Yeh E. Ann
Published: April 2012

Propionic acidemia is an inborn error of metabolism with neurologic manifestations. We describe a 3-year-old boy with propionic acidemia presenting with a metabolic crisis including headache, vomiting, and altered mental status with metabolic acidosis. Electroencephalography showed focal slowing in right temporal region. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed restricted diffusion with apparent diffusion coefficient correlate in the right parietooccipital region. Correction of metabolic acidosis led to clinical improvement and normalization of MRI diffusion weighted imaging/apparent diffusion coefficient changes. This article suggests that restricted diffusion resulting from metabolic crises in propionic acidemia may be reversible in some cases.
Intramedullary Spinal Cord Primitive Neuroectodermal Tumor Presenting With Hydrocephalus
Authors: Alexiou George A. , Siozos George , Stefanaki Kalliopi , Moschovi Maria , Prodromou Neofytos
Published: April 2012

Spinal primitive neuroectodermal tumors are exceedingly rare. Herewith, we present the first case of an intramedullary spinal cord tumor associated with hydrocephalus in a 2-month-old boy that presented with left hemiparesis. The patient had been diagnosed on prenatal ultrasound with enlarged ventricular system. At his current admission, a brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed hydrocephalus and an intramedullary lesion extending from the second cervical to the first thoracic vertebrae. Dissemination of the tumor was revealed intracranially and in the spinal canal. After a ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement a radical resection of the tumor was performed, however some small tumor remnants could not be safely removed. Postoperative there was no neurologic deterioration. The tumor was diagnosed as a central nervous system primitive neuroectodermal tumor (World Health Organization grade IV). Spinal intramedullary primitive neuroectodermal tumors are extremely rare. In such rare tumors, multiinstitutional studies are needed for treatment guidelines to be established.
The Very Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor–Associated Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia and Dysmorphic Features in Three Turkish Patients
Authors: Sonmez Fatma Mujgan , Gleeson Joseph G. , Celep Figen , Kul Sibel
Published: April 2012

Pontocerebellar hypoplasia consists of a rare heterogeneous group of congenital neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by hypoplasia and atrophy of the cerebellar cortex, dentate and pontine nuclei, and inferior olives. The very low density lipoprotein receptor protein is an integral part of the reelin signaling pathway, which guides neuroblast migration in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum. Mutations in this receptor cause nonprogressive cerebellar ataxia, mental retardation, and cerebellar hypoplasia. In this report, we present 3 patients from 2 different families displaying very low density lipoprotein receptor–associated pontocerebellar hypoplasia, cortical dysplasia, mental retardation, and bipedal gait. One of the siblings has also displayed dysmorphic features, as we previously reported before the identification of the genetic defect in this family.
Safrole-modulated immune response is mediated through enhancing the CD11b surface marker and stimulating the phagocytosis by macrophages in BALB/c mice
Authors: Fan M-J , Lin S-Y , Yu C-C , Tang N-Y , Ho H-C , Chung H-K , Yang J-S , Huang Y-P , Ip S-W , Chung J-G
Published: April 2012

Safrole, a component of piper betle inflorescence, is a documented rodent hepatocarcinogen and inhibits bactericidal activity and the release of superoxide anion (O2−) by polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). In the present study, we investigated the effects of safrole on immune responses, including natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, phagocytic activity and population distribution of leukocytes from normal BALB/c mice. The cells population (cell surface markers) and phagocytosis by macrophages and monocytes from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were determined, and NK cell cytotoxicity from splenocytes of mice after oral treatment with safrole was performed using flow cytometric assay. Results indicated that safrole did not affect the weights of body, spleen and liver when compared with the normal mice group. Safrole also promoted the levels of CD11b (monocytes) and Mac-3 (macrophages) that might be the reason for promoting the activity of phagocytosis. However, safrole reduced the cell population such as CD3 (T cells) and CD19 (B cells) of safrole-treated normal mice by oral administration. Furthermore, safrole elevated the uptake of Escherichia coli-labelled fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) by macrophages from blood and significantly stimulated the NK cell cytotoxicity in normal mice in vivo. In conclusions, alterations of the cell population (the increase in monocytes and macrophages, respectively) in safrole-treated normal BALB/c mice might indirectly influence the immune responses in vivo.
Relative trends in hospitalizations and mortality among infants by the number of vaccine doses and age, based on the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), 1990–2010
Authors: Goldman GS , Miller NZ
Published: April 2012

In this study, the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) database, 1990–2010, was investigated; cases that specified either hospitalization or death were identified among 38,801 reports of infants. Based on the types of vaccines reported, the actual number of vaccine doses administered, from 1 to 8, was summed for each case. Linear regression analysis of hospitalization rates as a function of (a) the number of reported vaccine doses and (b) patient age yielded a linear relationship with r2 = 0.91 and r2 = 0.95, respectively. The hospitalization rate increased linearly from 11.0% (107 of 969) for 2 doses to 23.5% (661 of 2817) for 8 doses and decreased linearly from 20.1% (154 of 765) for children aged <0.1 year to 10.7% (86 of 801) for children aged 0.9 year. The rate ratio (RR) of the mortality rate for 5–8 vaccine doses to 1–4 vaccine doses is 1.5 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.4–1.7), indicating a statistically significant increase from 3.6% (95% CI, 3.2–3.9%) deaths associated with 1–4 vaccine doses to 5.5% (95% CI, 5.2–5.7%) associated with 5–8 vaccine doses. The male-to-female mortality RR was 1.4 (95% CI, 1.3–1.5). Our findings show a positive correlation between the number of vaccine doses administered and the percentage of hospitalizations and deaths. Since vaccines are given to millions of infants annually, it is imperative that health authorities have scientific data from synergistic toxicity studies on all combinations of vaccines that infants might receive. Finding ways to increase vaccine safety should be the highest priority.