bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An automated multiwell plate reading flim microscope for live cell autofluorescence lifetime assays
Authors: Kelly Douglas J. , Warren Sean C. , Kumar Sunil , Lagarto João L. , Dyer Benjamin T. , Margineanu Anca , Lam Eric W.-F. , Dunsby Chris , French Paul M. W.
Published: January 2014

Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) is increasingly used to read out cellular autofluorescence originating from the coenzyme NADH in the context of investigating cell metabolic state. We present here an automated multiwell plate reading FLIM microscope optimized for UV illumination with the goal of extending high content fluorescence lifetime assays to readouts of metabolism. We demonstrate its application to automated cellular autofluorescence lifetime imaging and discuss the key practical issues associated with its implementation. In particular, we illustrate its capability to read out the NADH-lifetime response of cells to metabolic modulators, thereby illustrating the potential of the instrument for cytotoxicity studies, assays for drug discovery and stratified medicine.
The application of extended modified Lambert Beer model for measurement of blood carboxyhemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin saturation
Authors: Huong Audrey , Ngu Xavier
Published: January 2014

This work presents the use of extended Modified Lambert Beer (MLB) model for accurate and continuous monitoring of percent blood carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) (SCO) and oxyhemoglobin (OxyHb) saturation ( SO 2) via a fitting procedure. This quantification technique is based on the absorption characteristics of hemoglobin derivatives in the wavelength range of 520–600 nm to give the best estimates of the required parameters. A comparison of the performance of the developed model and MLB law is made using attenuation data from Monte Carlo simulations for a two-layered skin model. The results revealed a lower mean absolute error of 0.4% in the values estimated by the developed model as compared to 10% that is given by the MLB law. This study showed that the discussed approach is able to provide consistent and accurate measurement of blood SO 2 and SCO across different skin pigmentations suggesting that it may potentially be used as an alternative means for clinical diagnosis of carbon monoxide ( CO ) poisoning.
Synthesis and electrochemical properties of SrWO4/graphene composite as anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Linsen , Bai Qingling , Wang Linzhen , Zhang Aiqin , Zhang Yong , Xing Yu
Published: January 2014

SrWO 4/graphene composite was synthesized via a sol–gel method. The morphology and structure of the products were analyzed by SEM, TEM and XRD. The electrochemical performances of SrWO 4/graphene composite were investigated by galvanostatic charge/discharge method, cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results showed that the first cycle of the reversible specific capacity of SrWO 4/graphene composite can reach to 575.9 mAh g-1 at 50 mA g-1. The charge/discharge cycling study indicates that the SrWO 4/graphene composite was provided with excellent cycle performance and outstanding rate capability.
Non-stoichiometric synthesis and electrochemical performance of LiFe1-xPO4/C cathode materials for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Hu Chenglin , Wu Yuping , Dai Yongnian
Published: January 2014

Non-stoichiometric LiFe 1-x PO 4/ C composites were synthesized by a simple sol–gel method. Different impurities were detected in the X-ray diffraction measurements with the change of Fe content. The effects of Fe -poor on the structure and electrochemical performance of LiFePO 4 were investigated. Compared with stoichiometric LiFePO 4/ C , non-stoichiometric samples show better electrochemical performance because they have smaller impedance and faster lithium ion diffusion. Among these non-stoichiometric samples, LiFe 0.94 PO 4/ C cathode delivers the highest capacity of 149 mAh g-1 at 0.2 C and 103 mAh g-1 at 5 C and no capacity loss was found after 100 full cycles.
Synthesis and Characterization Silver, Zinc Oxide and Hybrid Silver/Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Roberson Myisha , Rangari Vijaya , Jeelani Shaik , Samuel Temesgen , Yates Clayton
Published: January 2014

Silver ( Ag ) and zinc oxide ( ZnO ) are well known for both antimicrobial and pro-healing properties. Here, we present a novel method to synthesize Ag and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs), as well as hybrid Ag / ZnO NPs using a custom, temperature controlled microwave assisted technique. Microwave synthesis has been shown not only to enhance the rate of chemical reactions, but also in some cases to give higher product yields over thermal heating. The as-synthesized NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) to study the crystalline structure, composition and purity. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) was used to study particle size, shape, composition and morphology. These results indicated that the as-prepared Ag NPs are spherical in shape and ~ 20 nm in sizes. The ZnO NPs are typically rod shaped and the particle sizes are ~ 20 nm in width and 100 nm in length. These NPs were tested for antibacterial and/or antifungal properties using disc diffusion assays. Results show microwave synthesized NPs inhibit growth of S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans at 50 μ g/mL treatment concentration. Ag NPs were most effective in inhibiting bacterial and fungal growth at the concentrations tested followed by hybrid Ag / ZnO and ZnO nanoparticles. These results also suggest that the hybridization of ZnO to Ag NPs may reduce the toxicity of Ag NPs. Further studies are needed to understand the functional interaction between the two types of NPs and to improve their ability for biological or biomedical application.
Multivariate Regression Analysis and Statistical Modeling for Summer Extreme Precipitation over the Yangtze River Basin, China
Authors: Gao Tao , Xie Lian
Published: January 2014

Extreme precipitation is likely to be one of the most severe meteorological disasters in China; however, studies on the physical factors affecting precipitation extremes and corresponding prediction models are not accurately available. From a new point of view, the sensible heat flux (SHF) and latent heat flux (LHF), which have significant impacts on summer extreme rainfall in Yangtze River basin (YRB), have been quantified and then selections of the impact factors are conducted. Firstly, a regional extreme precipitation index was applied to determine Regions of Significant Correlation (RSC) by analyzing spatial distribution of correlation coefficients between this index and SHF, LHF, and sea surface temperature (SST) on global ocean scale; then the time series of SHF, LHF, and SST in RSCs during 1967–2010 were selected. Furthermore, other factors that significantly affect variations in precipitation extremes over YRB were also selected. The methods of multiple stepwise regression and leave-one-out cross-validation (LOOCV) were utilized to analyze and test influencing factors and statistical prediction model. The correlation coefficient between observed regional extreme index and model simulation result is 0.85, with significant level at 99%. This suggested that the forecast skill was acceptable although many aspects of the prediction model should be improved.
Effects of Brown Seaweed (Sargassum polycystum) Extracts on Kidney, Liver, and Pancreas of Type 2 Diabetic Rat Model
Authors: Motshakeri Mahsa , Ebrahimi Mahdi , Goh Yong Meng , Othman Hemn Hassan , Hair-Bejo Mohd , Mohamed Suhaila
Published: January 2014

The edible seaweed Sargassum polycystum (SP) is traditionally used against several human diseases. This investigation evaluated the effects of two dietary doses of SP ethanolic and aqueous extracts on the pancreatic, hepatic, and renal morphology of type 2 diabetic rats (T2DM). T2DM was induced by feeding rats on high calorie diet followed by a low dose streptozotocin. Changes in the diabetic rat organs in SP treated groups with different doses of extracts were compared with normal rats, diabetic control rats, and metformin treated rats. After 22 days of treatment, the pathological lesions of the livers and kidneys in the diabetic rats were quantitatively and qualitatively alleviated (P < 0.05) by both the SP extracts at 150 mg/kg body weight and by metformin. All the treated diabetic groups revealed marked improvement in the histopathology of the pancreas compared with the control diabetic group. Oral administration of 300 mg/kg body weight of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of SP and metformin revealed pancreas protective or restorative effects. The seaweed extracts at 150 mg/kg body weight reduced the liver and kidney damages in the diabetic rats and may exert tissue repair or restoration of the pancreatic islets in experimentally induced diabetes to produce the beneficial homeostatic effects.
How Adolescents with Diabetes Experience Social Support from Friends: Two Qualitative Studies
Authors: Peters Louk W. H. , Nawijn Laura , van Kesteren Nicole M. C.
Published: January 2014

Self-management of diabetes is challenging, especially for adolescents who face multiple changes, including closer peer relationships. Few studies have explored how friends can provide constructive support in this effort. The present research investigated, in two qualitative studies, the perceptions of adolescents with diabetes and their friends with respect to the positive social support that friends can offer. In study 1, 28 adolescents aged 12–15 with type 1 diabetes participated in online focus groups. In study 2, 11 of these adolescents were interviewed in person together with their best friends. The data were analysed by means of content analysis. In study 1, the adolescents with diabetes identified various supportive behaviours of friends, particularly concerning emotional support: treating them normally, showing interest, having fun, providing a distraction, and taking their diabetes into account. They differed in their attitude towards support, and this influenced which behaviours they perceived as supportive. Study 2 showed that the adolescents with diabetes and their friends often had similar opinions on the desired degree of support. Fear of stigmatization and sense of autonomy withheld some adolescents with diabetes from soliciting more support. These insights can be useful in patient education aiming to promote social support.
Compressed Wideband Spectrum Sensing Based on Discrete Cosine Transform
Authors: Wang Yulin , Zhang Gengxin
Published: January 2014

Discrete cosine transform (DCT) is a special type of transform which is widely used for compression of speech and image. However, its use for spectrum sensing has not yet received widespread attention. This paper aims to alleviate the sampling requirements of wideband spectrum sensing by utilizing the compressive sampling (CS) principle and exploiting the unique sparsity structure in the DCT domain. Compared with discrete Fourier transform (DFT), wideband communication signal has much sparser representation and easier implementation in DCT domain. Simulation result shows that the proposed DCT-CSS scheme outperforms the conventional DFT-CSS scheme in terms of MSE of reconstruction signal, detection probability, and computational complexity.
Analysis of Rattleback Chaotic Oscillations
Authors: Hanias Michael , Stavrinides Stavros G. , Banerjee Santo
Published: January 2014

Rattleback is a canoe-shaped object, already known from ancient times, exhibiting a nontrivial rotational behaviour. Although its shape looks symmetric, its kinematic behaviour seems to be asymmetric. When spun in one direction it normally rotates, but when it is spun in the other direction it stops rotating and oscillates until it finally starts rotating in the other direction. It has already been reported that those oscillations demonstrate chaotic characteristics. In this paper, rattleback’s chaotic dynamics are studied by applying Kane’s model for different sets of (experimentally decided) parameters, which correspond to three different experimental prototypes made of wax, gypsum, and lead-solder. The emerging chaotic behaviour in all three cases has been studied and evaluated by the related time-series analysis and the calculation of the strange attractors’ invariant parameters.
Vulvar Skin Disorders throughout Lifetime: About Some Representative Dermatoses
Authors: Doyen Jean , Demoulin Stéphanie , Delbecque Katty , Goffin Frédéric , Kridelka Frédéric , Delvenne Philippe
Published: January 2014

The objective of this paper is to present general considerations which should be kept in mind by clinicians in charge of women with vulvar diseases. Four representative vulvar dermatoses are described. Lichen simplex chronicus is a pathological condition related to chemical and mechanical irritant agents. Detrimental effects of these irritants, in the presence of other dermatoses, have to be considered when therapeutic responses are unsatisfactory. Lichen sclerosus is the most common vulvar dermatosis in elderly. However, it should be kept in mind that it may be diagnosed at any age. Lichen planus, in spite of sharing a similar range of etiological factors with lichen sclerosus, is a very distinct entity. Finally, Paget’s disease, although rare, is also described especially because of the challenge it represents both clinically and therapeutically.
A Simple and High Performing Rate Control Initialization Method for H.264 AVC Coding Based on Motion Vector Map and Spatial Complexity at Low Bitrate
Authors: Wu Yalin , Ko Sun-Woo
Published: January 2014

The temporal complexity of video sequences can be characterized by motion vector map which consists of motion vectors of each macroblock (MB). In order to obtain the optimal initial QP (quantization parameter) for the various video sequences which have different spatial and temporal complexities, this paper proposes a simple and high performance initial QP determining method based on motion vector map and temporal complexity to decide an initial QP in given target bit rate. The proposed algorithm produces the reconstructed video sequences with outstanding and stable quality. For any video sequences, the initial QP can be easily determined from matrices by target bit rate and mapped spatial complexity using proposed mapping method. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can show more outstanding objective and subjective performance than other conventional determining methods.
Analysis of Surgical Site Infection after Musculoskeletal Tumor Surgery: Risk Assessment Using a New Scoring System
Authors: Nagano Satoshi , Yokouchi Masahiro , Setoguchi Takao , Sasaki Hiromi , Shimada Hirofumi , Kawamura Ichiro , Ishidou Yasuhiro , Kamizono Junichi , Yamamoto Takuya , Kawamura Hideki , Komiya Setsuro
Published: January 2014

Surgical site infection (SSI) has not been extensively studied in musculoskeletal tumors (MST) owing to the rarity of the disease. We analyzed incidence and risk factors of SSI in MST. SSI incidence was evaluated in consecutive 457 MST cases (benign, 310 cases and malignant, 147 cases) treated at our institution. A detailed analysis of the clinical background of the patients, pre- and postoperative hematological data, and other factors that might be associated with SSI incidence was performed for malignant MST cases. SSI occurred in 0.32% and 12.2% of benign and malignant MST cases, respectively. The duration of the surgery (P=0.0002) and intraoperative blood loss (P=0.0005) was significantly more in the SSI group than in the non-SSI group. We established the musculoskeletal oncological surgery invasiveness (MOSI) index by combining 4 risk factors (blood loss, operation duration, preoperative chemotherapy, and the use of artificial materials). The MOSI index (0–4 points) score significantly correlated with the risk of SSI, as demonstrated by an SSI incidence of 38.5% in the group with a high score (3-4 points). The MOSI index score and laboratory data at 1 week after surgery could facilitate risk evaluation and prompt diagnosis of SSI.
Dynamic and Quantitative Method of Analyzing Service Consistency Evolution Based on Extended Hierarchical Finite State Automata
Authors: Fan Linjun , Tang Jun , Ling Yunxiang , Li Benxian
Published: January 2014

This paper is concerned with the dynamic evolution analysis and quantitative measurement of primary factors that cause service inconsistency in service-oriented distributed simulation applications (SODSA). Traditional methods are mostly qualitative and empirical, and they do not consider the dynamic disturbances among factors in service’s evolution behaviors such as producing, publishing, calling, and maintenance. Moreover, SODSA are rapidly evolving in terms of large-scale, reusable, compositional, pervasive, and flexible features, which presents difficulties in the usage of traditional analysis methods. To resolve these problems, a novel dynamic evolution model extended hierarchical service-finite state automata (EHS-FSA) is constructed based on finite state automata (FSA), which formally depict overall changing processes of service consistency states. And also the service consistency evolution algorithms (SCEAs) based on EHS-FSA are developed to quantitatively assess these impact factors. Experimental results show that thebad reusability(17.93% on average) is the biggest influential factor, thenoncomposition of atomic services(13.12%) is the second biggest one, and theservice version’s confusion(1.2%) is the smallest one. Compared with previous qualitative analysis, SCEAs present good effectiveness and feasibility. This research can guide the engineers of service consistency technologies toward obtaining a higher level of consistency in SODSA.
Unpredictable Nature of Tolvaptan in Treatment of Hypervolemic Hyponatremia: Case Review on Role of Vaptans
Authors: Malhotra Ishan , Gopinath Shilpa , Janga Kalyana C. , Greenberg Sheldon , Sharma Shree K. , Tarkovsky Regina
Published: January 2014

Hyponatremia is one of the most commonly encountered electrolyte abnormalities occurring in up to 22% of hospitalized patients. Hyponatremia usually reflects excess water retention relative to sodium rather than sodium deficiency. Volume status and serum osmolality are essential to determine etiology. Treatment depends on several factors, including the cause, overall volume status of the patient, severity of hyponatremic symptoms, and duration of hyponatremia at presentation. Vasopressin antagonists like tolvaptan seem promising for the treatment of euvolemic and hypervolemic hyponatremia in heart failure. Low sodium concentrations cause cerebral edema, but the overly rapid sodium correction can also lead to iatrogenic cerebral osmotic demyelination syndrome. Demyelination may occur days after sodium correction or initial neurologic recovery from hyponatremia. The following case report analyzes the role of vasopressin antagonists in the treatment of hyponatremia and the need for daily dosing of tolvaptan and the monitoring of serum sodium levels to avoid rapid overcorrection which can result in osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS).
Fatty Acid Composition and Conjugated Linoleic Acid Content in Different Carcass parts of Dağlıç Lambs
Authors: Karabacak Ali , Aytekin İbrahim , Boztepe Saim
Published: January 2014

This study was conducted to compare fatty acid composition and content of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in different regions of sheep carcasses. Lambs of the Dağlıç breed were used for this purpose. Subsequent to a 68-day period of intensive fattening, fatty acids were examined in samples taken from the legs, shoulders, breasts, and ribs of lamb carcasses. According to the analysis, in leg, shoulder, breast, and rib, respectively, total saturated fatty acids (SFA) were found to be 40.38, 42.69, 42.56, and 40.27%, unsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were found to be 40.38, 44.17, 46.17, and 49.50%, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were found to be 4.79, 4.29, 3.80, and 3.72%, and CLAs were found to be 1.49, 1.69, 1.53, and 1.59%.
Abnormal Behavior Detection Using Trajectory Analysis in Camera Sensor Networks
Authors: Wang Yong , Wang Dianhong , Chen Fenxiong
Published: January 2014

Camera sensor networks have developed as a new technology for the wide-area video surveillance. In view of the limited power and computational capability of the camera nodes, the paper presents an abnormal behavior detection approach which is convenient and available for camera sensor networks. Trajectory analysis and anomaly modeling are carried out by single-node processing, whereas anomaly detection is performed by multinode voting. The main contributions of the proposed method are summarized as follows. First, target trajectories are reconstructed and represented as symbol sequences. Second, the sequences are taken into account using Markov model for building the transition probability matrix which can be used to automatically analyze abnormal behavior. Third, the final decision of anomaly detection is made through the majority voting of local results of individual camera nodes. Experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively estimate typical abnormal behaviors in real scenes.
The Effects of Remote Ischemic Preconditioning and N-Acetylcysteine with Remote Ischemic Preconditioning in Rat Hepatic Ischemia Reperfusion Injury Model
Authors: Uysal Ali Ihsan , Ocmen Elvan , Akan Mert , Ozkardesler Sevda , Ergur Bekir Ugur , Guneli Ensari , Kume Tuncay , Koca Uğur , Unal Togrul Belgin
Published: January 2014

Background. Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIP) and pharmacological preconditioning are the effective methods that can be used to prevent ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of RIP and N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) with RIP in the rat hepatic IR injury model.Materials and Methods. 28 rats were divided into 4 groups. Group I (sham): only laparotomy was performed. Group II (IR): following 30 minutes of hepatic pedicle occlusion, 4 hours of reperfusion was performed. Group III (RIP + IR): following 3 cycles of RIP, hepatic IR was performed. Group IV (RIP + NAC + IR): following RIP and intraperitoneal administration of NAC (150 mg/kg), hepatic IR was performed. All the rats were sacrificed after blood samples were taken for the measurements of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and liver was processed for conventional histopathology.Results. The hepatic histopathological injury scores of RIP + IR and RIP + NAC + IR groups were significantly lower than IR group (P=0.006,P=0.003, resp.). There were no significant differences in AST and ALT values between the IR, RIP + IR, and RIP + NAC + IR groups.Conclusions. In the present study, it was demonstrated histopathologically that RIP and RIP + NAC decreased hepatic IR injury significantly.
Splenic Abscess: A Rare Complication of the UVC in Newborn
Authors: Aslam Ameer , Ahmed Shatla Emad Sadek , Imanullah Sameera , Bedair Elsaid M. A.
Published: January 2014

Splenic abscess is one of the rarest complications of the UVC in a newborn and it is hypothesized that it could be due to an infection or trauma caused by a catheter. The case that is being reported presented with abdominal distension and recurrent desaturation with suspicion of neonatal sepsis versus necrotizing enterocolitis. However, the final diagnosis was splenic abscess as a complication of an inappropriate UVC insertion which was discovered by abdominal ultrasound. The patient was given broad spectrum antibiotics empirically and the symptoms were resolved without any surgical intervention. Such cases and controlled studies need to be reported in order to identify further causes and risk factors associated with splenic abscess in a patient with UVC which can eventually help us adopt preventive strategies to avoid such complications.
Finite‐Time Stability Analysis for a Class of Continuous Switched Descriptor Systems
Authors: Tinglong Pan , Kun Yang , Yanxia Shen , Zairui Gao , Zhicheng Ji
Published: January 2014

Finite‐time stability has more practical application values than the classical Lyapunov asymptotic stability over a fixed finite‐time interval. The problems of finite‐time stability and finite‐time boundedness for a class of continuous switched descriptor systems are considered in this paper. Based on the average dwell time approach and the multiple Lyapunov functions technique, the concepts of finite‐time stability and boundedness are extended to continuous switched descriptor systems. In addition, sufficient conditions for the existence of state feedback controllers in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) are obtained with arbitrary switching rules, which guarantee that the switched descriptor system is finite‐time stable and finite‐time bounded, respectively. Finally, two numerical examples are presented to illustrate the reasonableness and effectiveness of the proposed results.
Therapeutic Inhibition of Jak Activity Inhibits Progression of Gastrointestinal Tumors in Mice
Authors: Stuart Emma , Buchert Michael , Putoczki Tracy , Thiem Stefan , Farid Ryan , Elzer Joachim , Huszar Dennis , Waring Paul M. , Phesse Toby J. , Ernst Matthias
Published: January 2014

Aberrant activation of the latent transcription factor STAT3 and its downstream targets is a common feature of epithelial-derived human cancers, including those of the gastrointestinal tract. Mouse models of gastrointestinal malignancy implicate Stat3 as a key mediator of inflammatory-driven tumorigenesis, in which its cytokine/gp130/Janus kinase (Jak)–dependent activation provides a functional link through which the microenvironment sustains tumor promotion. Although therapeutic targeting of STAT3 is highly desirable, such molecules are not available for immediate clinical assessment. Here, we investigated whether the small-molecule Jak1/2 inhibitor AZD1480 confers therapeutic benefits in two mouse models of inflammation-associated gastrointestinal cancer, which are strictly dependent of excessive Stat3 activation. We confirm genetically that Cre-mediated, tumor cell–specific reduction of Stat3 expression arrests the growth of intestinal-type gastric tumors in gp130F/F mice. We find that systemic administration of AZD1480 readily replicates this effect, which is associated with reduced Stat3 activation and correlates with diminished tumor cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. Likewise, AZD1480 therapy also conferred a cytostatic effect on established tumors in a colitis-associated colon cancer model in wild-type mice. As predicted from our genetic observations in gp130F/F mice, the therapeutic effect of AZD1480 remains fully reversible upon cessation of compound administration. Collectively, our results provide the first evidence that pharmacologic targeting of excessively activated wild-type Jak kinases affords therapeutic suppression of inflammation-associated gastrointestinal cancers progression in vivo. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(2); 468–74. ©2014 AACR.
Nutrition and Physical Activity Cancer Prevention Guidelines, Cancer Risk, and Mortality in the Women's Health Initiative
Authors: Thomson Cynthia A. , McCullough Marjorie L. , Wertheim Betsy C. , Chlebowski Rowan T. , Martinez Maria Elena , Stefanick Marcia L. , Rohan Thomas E. , Manson JoAnn E. , Tindle Hilary A. , Ockene Judith , Vitolins Mara Z. , Wactawski-Wende Jean , Sarto Gloria E. , Lane Dorothy S. , Neuhouser Marian L.
Published: January 2014

Healthy lifestyle behaviors are recommended to reduce cancer risk and overall mortality. Adherence to cancer-preventive health behaviors and subsequent cancer risk has not been evaluated in a diverse sample of postmenopausal women. We examined the association between the American Cancer Society (ACS) Nutrition and Physical Activity Cancer Prevention Guidelines score and risk of incident cancer, cancer-specific mortality, and all-cause mortality in 65,838 postmenopausal women enrolled in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. ACS guidelines scores (0–8 points) were determined from a combined measure of diet, physical activity, body mass index (current and at age 18 years), and alcohol consumption. After a mean follow-up of 12.6 years, 8,632 incident cancers and 2,356 cancer deaths were identified. The highest ACS guidelines scores compared with the lowest were associated with a 17% lower risk of any cancer [HR, 0.83; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.75–0.92], 22% lower risk of breast cancer (HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.67–0.92), 52% lower risk of colorectal cancer (HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.32–0.73), 27% lower risk of all-cause mortality, and 20% lower risk of cancer-specific mortality (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.71–0.90). Associations with lower cancer incidence and mortality were generally strongest among Asian, black, and Hispanic women and weakest among non-Hispanic whites. Behaviors concordant with Nutrition and Physical Activity Cancer Prevention Guidelines were associated with lower risk of total, breast, and colorectal cancers and lower cancer-specific mortality in postmenopausal women. Cancer Prev Res; 7(1); 42–53. ©2014 AACR.
Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: From Epithelial Injury to Biomarkers - Insights from the Bench Side
Authors: Kolb  , Borensztajn Keren , Crestani Bruno , Kolb Martin
Published: January 2014

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most frequent fibrotic diffuse parenchymal lung disease. Its prognosis is devastating: >50% of the patients die within 3 years after diagnosis. Options for the treatment of IPF are limited and lung transplantation is the only ‘curative' therapy. Currently, in the absence of validated indicators of disease progression/activity and diagnostic tools, the clinical management of IPF remains a major challenge. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of IPF is critical for the identification of new therapeutic targets as well as molecules that may serve as surrogate markers for clinically significant endpoints. The current paradigm on the mechanisms leading from a normal to a fibrotic lung postulates that chronic epithelial lesion leads to aberrant wound healing activation, which is characterized by deregulated fibroblast proliferation and activation together with an uncontrolled extracellular matrix synthesis. In this review, we shed light on the role of epithelial cell damage in the pathogenesis of fibrosis. Finally, we examine the markers of epithelial damage and their potential use as biomarkers and the future of this continuously expanding field.
Low Coronary Microcirculatory Resistance Associated With Profound Hypotension During Intravenous Adenosine Infusion
Authors: Echavarría-Pinto Mauro , Gonzalo Nieves , Ibañez Borja , Petraco Ricardo , Jimenez-Quevedo Pilar , Sen Sayan , Nijjer Sukkinder , Tarkin Jason , Alfonso Fernando , Núñez-Gil Ivan J. , Bañuelos Camino , Quirós Alicia , Fernández-Ortiz Antonio , Macaya Carlos , Koo Bon-Kwon , Davies Justin , Escaned Javier
Published: January 2014

Background—

Intravenous adenosine infusion produces coronary and systemic vasodilatation, generally leading to systemic hypotension. However, adenosine-induced hypotension during stable hyperemia is heterogeneous, and its relevance to coronary stenoses assessment with fractional flow reserve (FFR) remains largely unknown.

Methods and Results—

FFR, coronary flow reserve, and index of microcirculatory resistance were measured in 93 stenosed arteries (79 patients). Clinical and intracoronary measurements were analyzed among tertiles of the percentage degree of adenosine-induced hypotension, defined as follows: %ΔP
a
=–[100–(hyperemic aortic pressure×100/baseline aortic pressure)]. Overall, %ΔP
a
was –13.6±12.0%. Body mass index was associated with %ΔP
a
(
r
=0.258;
P
=0.025) and obesity, an independent predictor of profound adenosine-induced hypotension (tertile 3 of %ΔP
a
; odds ratio, 3.95 [95% confidence interval, 1.48–10.54];
P
=0.006). %ΔP
a
was associated with index of microcirculatory resistance (ρ=0.311;
P
=0.002), coronary flow reserve (
r
=–0.246;
P
=0.017), and marginally with FFR (
r
=0.203;
P
=0.051). However, index of microcirculatory resistance (β=0.003;
P
<0.001) and not %ΔP
a
(β=–0.001;
P
=0.564) was a predictor of FFR. Compared with tertiles 1 and 2 of %ΔP
a
(n=62 [66.6%]), stenoses assessed during profound adenosine-induced hypotension (n=31 [33.3%]) had lower index of microcirculatory resistance (12.4 [8.6–22.7] versus 20 [15.8–35.5];
P
=0.001) and FFR values (0.77±0.13 versus 0.83±0.12;
P
=0.021), as well as a nonsignificant increase in coronary flow reserve (2.5±1.1 versus 2.2±0.87;
P
=0.170).

Conclusions—

The modification of systemic blood pressure during intravenous adenosine infusion is related to hyperemic microcirculatory resistance in the heart. Profound adenosine-induced hypotension is associated with obesity, lower coronary microcirculatory resistance, and lower FFR values.
Adiponectin Inhibits Tumor Necrosis Factor-α–Induced Vascular Inflammatory Response via Caveolin-Mediated Ceramidase Recruitment and Activation
Authors: Wang Yajing , Wang Xiaoliang , Lau Wayne Bond , Yuan Yuexing , Booth David , Li Jing-Jing , Scalia Rosario , Preston Kyle , Gao Erhe , Koch Walter , Ma Xin-Liang
Published: January 2014

Rationale:

Anti-inflammatory and vascular protective actions of adiponectin are well recognized. However, many fundamental questions remain unanswered.

Objective:

The current study attempted to identify the adiponectin receptor subtype responsible for adiponectin’s vascular protective action and investigate the role of ceramidase activation in adiponectin anti-inflammatory signaling.

Methods and Results:

Adiponectin significantly reduced tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α–induced intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression and attenuated TNFα-induced oxidative/nitrative stress in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. These anti-inflammatory actions were virtually abolished by adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1-), but not AdipoR2-, knockdown (KD). Treatment with adiponectin significantly increased neutral ceramidase (nCDase) activity (3.7-fold;
P
<0.01). AdipoR1-KD markedly reduced globular adiponectin–induced nCDase activation, whereas AdipoR2-KD only slightly reduced. More importantly, small interfering RNA-mediated nCDase-KD markedly blocked the effect of adiponectin on TNFα-induced intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression. AMP-activated protein kinase-KD failed to block adiponectin-induced nCDase activation and modestly inhibited adiponectin anti-inflammatory effect. In contrast, in caveolin-1 KD (Cav1-KD) cells, >87% of adiponectin-induced nCDase activation was lost. Whereas adiponectin treatment failed to inhibit TNFα-induced intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression, treatment with sphingosine-1-phosphate or SEW (sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor agonist) remained effective in Cav1-KD cells. AdipoR1 and Cav1 colocalized and coprecipitated in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Adiponectin treatment did not affect this interaction. There is weak basal Cav1/nCDase interaction, which significantly increased after adiponectin treatment. Knockout of AdipoR1 or Cav1 abolished the inhibitory effect of adiponectin on leukocyte rolling and adhesion in vivo.

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate for the first time that adiponectin inhibits TNFα-induced inflammatory response via Cav1-mediated ceramidase recruitment and activation in an AdipoR1-dependent fashion.
Circulating Inflammatory Markers Are Associated With Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Visible Perivascular Spaces But Not Directly With White Matter Hyperintensities
Authors: Aribisala Benjamin S. , Wiseman Stewart , Morris Zoe , Valdés-Hernández Maria C. , Royle Natalie A. , Maniega Susana M. , Gow Alan J. , Corley Janie , Bastin Mark E. , Starr John , Deary Ian J. , Wardlaw Joanna M.
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose—

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) and perivascular spaces (PVS) are features of small vessel disease, found jointly on MRI of older people. Inflammation is a prominent pathological feature of small vessel disease. We examined the association between inflammation, PVS, and WMH in the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936 (N=634).

Methods—

We measured plasma fibrinogen, C-reactive protein, and interleukin-6 and rated PVS in 3 brain regions. We measured WMH volumetrically and visually using the Fazekas scale. We derived latent variables for
PVS, WMH
, and
Inflammation
from measured PVS, WMH, and inflammation markers and modelled associations using structural equation modelling.

Results—

After accounting for age, sex, stroke, and vascular risk factors,
PVS
were significantly associated with
WMH
(β=0.47;
P
<0.0001);
Inflammation
was weakly but significantly associated with
PVS
(β=0.12;
P
=0.048), but not with
WMH
(β=0.02;
P
=NS).

Conclusions—

Circulating inflammatory markers are weakly associated with MR-visible PVS, but not directly with WMH. Longitudinal studies should examine whether visible PVS predate WMH progression and whether inflammation modulators can prevent small vessel disease.
New Leptotarsus from the Early Cretaceous of Brazil and Spain: the oldest members of the family Tipulidae (Diptera)
Authors: RIBEIRO GUILHERME C. , LUKASHEVICH ELENA D.
Published: January 2014

New species of Leptotarsus (Tipulidae s.str.) are described from the Early Cretaceous beds of Brazil (Santana Fm. Aptian/Albian, ca. 112 Mya) and Spain (La Huérguina Fm., Late Barremian, ca. 126 Mya), vis. L. grimaldii sp. nov., L. cretaceus sp. nov., L. martinsnetoi sp. nov., L. buscalioniae sp. nov., L. ibericus sp. nov. and L. contractus sp. nov. Males of three species possess extremely long antennae. The fossils are the oldest representatives of the genus Leptotarsus, and the oldest known members of the family Tipulidae.
Role of Cumulus Congestus in Tropical Cyclone Formation in a High-Resolution Numerical Model Simulation
Authors: Wang Zhuo
Published: January 2014

The role of cumulus congestus (shallow and congestus convection) in tropical cyclone (TC) formation is examined in a high-resolution simulation of Tropical Cyclone Fay (2008). It is found that cumulus congestus plays a dominant role in moistening the lower to middle troposphere and spinning up the near-surface circulation prior to genesis, while deep convection plays a key role in moistening the upper troposphere and intensifying the cyclonic circulation over a deep layer. The transition from the tropical wave stage to the TC stage is marked by a substantial increase in net condensation and potential vorticity generation by deep convection in the inner wave pouch region.

This study suggests that TC formation can be regarded as a two-stage process. The first stage is a gradual process of moisture preconditioning and low-level spinup, in which cumulus congestus plays a dominant role. The second stage commences with the rapid development of deep convection in the inner pouch region after the air column is moistened sufficiently, whereupon the concentrated convective heating near the pouch center strengthens the transverse circulation and leads to the amplification of the cyclonic circulation over a deep layer. The rapid development of deep convection can be explained by the power-law increase of precipitation rate with column water vapor (CWV) above a critical value. The high CWV near the pouch center thus plays an important role in convective organization. It is also shown that cumulus congestus can effectively drive the low-level convergence and provides a direct and simple pathway for the development of the TC protovortex near the surface.
African American and Black Caribbean Mutual Feelings of Closeness
Authors: Thornton Michael C. , Taylor Robert Joseph , Chatters Linda M.
Published: January 2014

African American and Black Caribbean relations are described as strained. Standard portrayals of Black Caribbeans as a “model minority” that has effectively assimilated into the American landscape often make explicit their distinctiveness from and enmity toward African Americans. Analysis using National Survey of American Life data ( N = 6,082), exploring the nature and correlates of intergroup perceptions, reveals that both groups characterize their mutual relationships as being close. Gender and region of residence influence African American feelings of closeness toward Black Caribbeans, while for Black Caribbeans, perceived discrimination was significantly associated with feelings of closeness to African Americans. Black Caribbean immigrants from Spanish-speaking countries and Haiti felt closer to African Americans than did Jamaicans. In addition, foreign-born Black Caribbeans (first generation) felt closer to Black people from the Caribbean than second-generation Black Caribbeans. These and other findings are discussed in relation to research on intergroup closeness among African Americans and Black Caribbeans.
Missionary performance evaluation: surfacing issues
Authors: LaBreche Pamela J.
Published: January 2014

Missionaries experience multiple evaluation processes, both formal and informal, involving various stakeholders in their ministry (e.g., sending organizations, churches, and national partners). While a great deal of literature exists on performance assessment and performance management in general, the particular issues related to missionary evaluation have scarcely been addressed. A small study consisting of interviews with eight missionaries revealed a number of issues that deserve further attention. This article summarizes the results of the study, which consisted of questions relating to the evaluators and the purposes, content, and means of evaluation. Some tentative conclusions indicating possible directions for further study are also outlined.
MRI Information for Commonly Used Otologic Implants: Review and Update
Authors: Azadarmaki Roya , Tubbs Rhonda , Chen Douglas A. , Shellock Frank G.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To review information on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) issues for commonly used otologic implants.

Data Sources

Manufacturing companies, National Library of Medicine's online database, and an additional online database (www.MRIsafety.com).

Review Methods

A literature review of the National Library of Medicine's online database with focus on MRI issues for otologic implants was performed. The MRI information on implants provided by manufacturers was reviewed.

Results

Baha and Ponto Pro osseointegrated implants’ abutment and fixture and the implanted magnet of the Sophono Alpha 1 and 2 abutment‐free systems are approved for 3‐Tesla magnetic resonance (MR) systems. The external processors of these devices are MR Unsafe. Of the implants tested, middle ear ossicular prostheses, including stapes prostheses, except for the 1987 McGee prosthesis, are MR Conditional for 1.5‐Tesla (and many are approved for 3‐Tesla) MR systems. Cochlear implants with removable magnets are approved for patients undergoing MRI at 1.5 Tesla after magnet removal. The MED‐EL PULSAR, SONATA, CONCERT, and CONCERT PIN cochlear implants can be used in patients undergoing MRI at 1.5 Tesla with application of a protective bandage. The MED‐EL COMBI 40+ can be used in 0.2‐Tesla MR systems. Implants made from nonmagnetic and nonconducting materials are MR Safe.

Conclusion

Knowledge of MRI guidelines for commonly used otologic implants is important. Guidelines on MRI issues approved by the US Food and Drug Administration are not always the same compared with other parts of the world.

Implications for Practice

This monograph provides a current reference for physicians on MRI issues for commonly used otologic implants.
Correlates and Economic and Clinical Outcomes of an Adult IV to PO Antimicrobial Conversion Program at an Academic Medical Center in Midwest United States
Authors: Sallach-Ruma Rory , Nieman Jennifer , Sankaranarayanan Jayashri , Reardon Tom
Published: January 2014

The study objectives were to evaluate the correlates and outcomes of a parenteral (IV) to oral (PO) antimicrobial conversion program at a Midwest US Academic Medical Center with the hypothesis that it will be associated with reduced drug costs. Patient-level data (n = 237; sex, race, admission source, admission status, admission severity, risk of mortality [relative expected, admission], and early death) were extracted from the Clinical Data Base/Resource Manager. Medication-level, drug-encounter data (n = 317; antibiotic/dose/route/frequency/duration, conversion status, 10-day IV/PO switch-eligibility criteria) were extracted from patient’s hospital medical records. Univariate analyses using chi-square or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables and Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables showed patients not converted (n = 149) versus converted (n = 88) at some point from IV to PO were more likely to be of white race and had higher risk of relative expected mortality. By applying the unit drug cost (derived from 2010 Thomson Reuters RED BOOKTM) and labor costs for IV/PO administration, both per dose, the overall 1-month drug cost-saving estimates in 2010 in US dollars were US$5242 from converting and US$8805 savings missed from not converting 518 and 1387 switch-eligible antibiotic doses, respectively. Despite sample-size limitations, this study demonstrated correlates and missed opportunities to convert antimicrobials from IV to PO, which warrants providers’ attention.
Timing of endoscopy in gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Sonnenberg Amnon
Published: January 2014

Background

In gastrointestinal bleeding, a physician often has to make a decision between two possible choices. Endoscopic management of the bleeding could be initiated immediately, or it could be delayed until the patient has become haemodynamically stable or the conditions for a successful endoscopy have otherwise improved.

Objective

The present article serves to present such situations and highlights their characteristic features.

Methods

The choice between immediate and delayed endoscopy is analysed in terms of a decision tree, comparing the expected results of the two management alternatives. The decision tree is applied to three different clinical scenarios associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, where performing endoscopy later rather than sooner represents the preferred management option.

Results

The work up of chronic iron‐deficient anaemia in patients with serious cardiac problems should be deferred until resolution of their reduced cardiovascular status. It is also recommended that, even in acute bleeding, endoscopy is deferred until the patient has become haemodynamically stable. Lastly, for nonemergency treatment of oesophageal varices bleeding, a long rather than short interval between consecutive banding sessions appears more beneficial.

Conclusions

The results illustrate how to use threshold analysis as a simple bedside tool to solve seemingly complex decisions associated with management of gastrointestinal bleeding.