bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cognitive Profiles in Patients with Multi-Infarct Dementia: An Omani Study
Authors: Al-Adawi Samir , Braidy Nady , Essa Musthafa , Al-Azri Faisal , Hussain Samir , Al-Sibani Nasser , Al-Khabouri Jabar , Al-Asmi Abdullah , Al-Mashani Ali
Published: July 2014

Background: Studies on neurocognitive impairment among patients presenting with multi-infarct dementia (MID) have received little attention from non-Western societies, and the Arab world is no exception. To our knowledge, this is the first study to characterize neurocognitive, affective and vegetative functioning in patients with MID in Oman. Methods: In this study, we recruited 20 Omani patients presenting with MID and age- and gender-matched controls at the outpatient clinic of the Department of Behavioral Medicine, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman. In addition to the collection of clinical and demographic information, various cognitive batteries were administered to the consenting participants, including those indexing nonverbal reasoning abilities, working memory (attention, concentration and recall) and executive functioning. Questionnaires that elicit the affective range and the quality of sleep were also administered. Results: Compared with the matched healthy subjects, the patients diagnosed with MID significantly differed in the presently operationalized indices of visuospatial function, semantic memory and affective and vegetative functioning. In contrast, episodic memory and some attentional capacities were not significantly different compared with the control subjects. Conclusions: The present study was explorative and clinically designed to describe neurocognitive functioning in patients with MID seeking consultation at a tertiary care center in Oman. Our data are necessary for planning and setting up community services and health care programs for demented patients in a society where dementia is a growing silent epidemic. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Diagnostic Features of Myelomeningocele: The Role of Ultrafast Fetal MRI
Authors: Mirsky David M. , Schwartz Erin S. , Zarnow Deborah M.
Published: July 2014

Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a useful adjunct to ultrasound in the evaluation of neural tube defects. The development of ultrafast imaging techniques has contributed to the increasing clinical use of fetal MRI. This review summarizes the utility, safety and technical aspects of fetal MRI and the role it plays in the evaluation of myelomeningocele. Emphasis is placed on the benefit of fetal MRI as it pertains to presurgical planning and perinatal management.
Malignant Mixed Müllerian Tumor with an Extensive Squamous-Cell Carcinomatous Component: A Potential Pitfall in Liquid-Based Cervical Cytology
Authors: Bongiovanni Massimo , Vitale Valerio A. , Grassi Pierangela , Mazzucchelli Luca
Published: July 2014

Background: Malignant mixed Müllerian tumors (MMMTs) are aggressive tumors arising in the female lower genital tract and characterized by the presence of both a malignant epithelial and a mesenchymal component. Here, we report a case of an MMMT of the uterine corpus with an extensive squamous-cell carcinomatous component processed by liquid-based cytology (LBC). Case Report: An 84-year-old woman with a prior history of anal squamous-cell carcinoma, who complained of vaginal bleeding, was discovered to have a mass protruding from the uterine cervix. A Papanicolaou (Pap) test was performed and the LBC (ThinPrep) preparation showed a background of neutrophils and cellular debris. Atypical cells were identified that presented with hyperchromatic nuclei, nuclear membrane irregularities, multinucleation and abundant cytoplasm with focal keratinization. Scattered nucleolated malignant elements were also identified. The cytological diagnosis resulted in ‘suspicious for squamous-cell carcinoma', favoring primary cervical carcinoma rather than extracervical (anal) carcinoma. The histological examination showed that it was an MMMT with an extensive squamous-cell carcinomatous component. Conclusion: This case illustrates the potential diagnostic pitfall of MMMTs with extensive squamous-cell carcinomatous components in LBC Pap smears. Cytopathologists should keep in mind this diagnostic possibility in postmenopausal women who experience vaginal bleeding or spotting.
Interstitial Pregnancy: A ‘Road Map' of Surgical Treatment Based on a Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Cucinella Gaspare , Calagna Gloria , Rotolo Stefano , Granese Roberta , Saitta Salvatore , Tonni Gabriele , Perino Antonio
Published: July 2014

An electronic search concerning the surgical approach in cases of interstitial pregnancy from January 2000 to May 2013 has been carried out. Fifty three studies have been retrieved and included for statistical analysis. Conservative and radical surgical treatments in 354 cases of interstitial pregnancy are extensively described. Hemostatic techniques have been reported as well as clinical criteria for the medical approach. Surgical outcome in conservative versus radical treatment were similar. When hemostatic techniques were used, lower blood losses and lower operative times were recorded. Conversion to laparotomy involved difficulties in hemostasis and the presence of persistent or multiple adhesions. Laparoscopic injection of vasopressin into the myometrium below the cornual mass was the preferred approach.
Pharmacoeconomic Implications of Lenalidomide Maintenance Therapy in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Kim Miriam Y. , Sposto Richard , Swaika Abhisek , Asano Hitomi , Alamgir Ahsan , Chanan-Khan Asher , Ailawadhi Sikander
Published: July 2014

We compared the three arms of the MM-015 randomized phase III clinical trial [melphalan and prednisone (MP), MP plus lenalidomide (MPR), and MPR plus lenalidomide maintenance (MPR-R)] to determine whether the addition of lenalidomide maintenance therapy for primary treatment of multiple myeloma is cost-effective. We used progression-free survival and adverse event data from the MM-015 study for the analysis. Two novel measures of cost-effectiveness termed the Average Cumulative Cost per Patient (ACCP) and the Average Cumulative Cost per Progression-Free Survivor (ACCPFS) were developed for the purpose of this analysis. The ACCP of MP was USD 18,218, compared to USD 167,862 for MPR and USD 309,173 for MPR-R. The ACCPFS was highest with MPR at USD 1,555,443, while MP was USD 313,592 and MPR-R was USD 690,111. MPR-R is superior to MPR in terms of preventing the first progression after initial therapy. However, the addition of lenalidomide to MP in the induction and also in the maintenance setting leads to significant costs.
Glioma Tissue Obtained by Modern Ultrasonic Aspiration with a Simple Sterile Suction Trap for Primary Cell Culture and Pathological Evaluation
Authors: Schroeteler Juliane , Reeker Ralf , Suero Molina Eric , Brokinkel Benjamin , Holling Markus , Grauer Oliver M. , Senner Volker , Stummer Walter , Ewelt Christian
Published: July 2014

Objectives: Ultrasonic aspiration is widely used in the resection of brain tumors. Nevertheless, tumor tissue fragments obtained by ultrasonic aspiration are usually discarded. In this study, we demonstrate that these fragments are possible sources of material for histopathological study and tissue culture and compare their microscopic features and viability in tissue culture of cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator tissue fragments. Methods: Brain tumor tissue collected by ultrasonic aspiration (CUSA EXcel®; Integra Radionics Inc.) in a simple sterile suction trap during resection was processed for primary cell culture. Cell viability and immunohistological markers were measured by the WST-1 test, microscopy and immunofluorescent evaluation. Results: Six gliomas are presented to demonstrate that these tissue fragments show good preservation of histological detail and tissue viability in culture. Conclusion: Utilization of this material may facilitate pathological interpretation by providing a more representative sample of tumor histology as well as an adequate and sterile biosource of material for tissue culture studies.
Impact of Behavioral Genetic Evidence on the Perceptions and Dispositions of Child Abuse Victims
Authors: Raad Raymond , Appelbaum Paul S.
Published: July 2014

Background: Behavioral genetic research is beginning to elucidate some of the genetic contributions to human behaviors - including criminal and other problematic behaviors - and their interactions with environmental influences. One of the most studied of these interactions involves low-activity alleles of the monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene, which appear to increase the risk of antisocial behavior among males in the wake of childhood maltreatment. Some scholars have suggested that decisions about disposition of child abuse victims should be shaped by these findings, but the extent of public support for such approaches has not been assessed. Methods: In this study, a representative sample of the US population (n = 250) was presented with a vignette about a child, physically abused by his mother, who was tested for the presence of an allele that increases the risk of future impulsive violent behavior. Participants were asked about their views regarding the child's disposition, including return to his mother, and medical or psychological treatment. Results: Although participants thought that genetic data should be taken into account, the presence of an allele that increases the risk of impulsive violent behavior did not affect views regarding the child's return to his mother. However, it did increase respondents' willingness to provide the child with medical treatment and their view of the child as dangerous to other children. Conclusions: The findings suggest that behavioral genetic evidence has effects on perceptions of dangerousness and tendencies to view problems as medical but that the public is cautious about the use of genetic findings in child abuse adjudications.
Pathophysiology of Barrett's Esophagus-Associated Neoplasia: Circumferential Spatial Predilection
Authors: Ishimura Norihisa , Okada Mayumi , Mikami Hironobu , Okimoto Eiko , Fukuda Naoki , Uno Goichi , Aimi Masahito , Oshima Naoki , Ishihara Shunji , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: July 2014

The prevalence rates of Barrett's esophagus (BE) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) arising from BE show striking geographic patterns as they are much more common in Western as compared with Asian countries. However, recent epidemiological studies indicate that the number of patients with BE and EAC are gradually increasing in Asia including Japan, corresponding to the increase in prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Because the prognosis of patients with advanced-stage EAC remains poor, early detection of neoplastic lesion in those with BE has led to recent interest in effective treatment. Several promising studies have revealed that early neoplasia in BE is mainly located in the right anterior wall of the distal esophagus. Interestingly, this endoscopic characteristic has been found in both Western and Japanese populations. Potential pathophysiologic explanations underlying the circumferential distribution of neoplasia in BE include a nonuniform asymmetric distribution of esophageal acid exposure, with a tendency toward mucosal acid-related injury on the right side of the esophageal wall in patients with GERD, and the functional structure of the lower esophageal sphincter. Findings of the present study should improve lesion detection and aid in developing a target biopsy protocol for surveillance of BE.
Hepatitis B Virus-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Pathogenic Mechanisms and Novel Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Xu Hong-Zhi , Liu Yun-Peng , Guleng Bayasi , Ren Jian-Lin
Published: July 2014

Background: Infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is one of most important risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Indeed, HBV is considered a group 1 human carcinogen and is a highly oncogenic agent. HBV cannot be effectively controlled or completely eliminated, so chronic HBV infection is a public health challenge worldwide. Summary: It is now believed that HBV-induced HCC involves a complex interaction between multiple viral and host factors. Many factors contribute to HBV-associated HCC, including products of HBV, viral integration and mutation, and host susceptibility. This review outlines the main pathogenic mechanisms with a focus on those that suggest novel targets for the prevention and treatment of HCC. Key Message: HBV infection is an important risk factor for HCC. Understanding the interaction between viral and host factors in HBV-induced HCC will reveal potential targets for future therapies. Practical Implications: The two main therapeutic strategies consist of antiviral agents and immunotherapy-based approaches. Dendritic cell-based immunotherapy is promising for restoring the T cell-mediated antiviral immune response. Another approach is the specific expansion of the host's pool of HBV-specific T cells. Stimulation of the Toll-like receptors (TLRs), particularly TLR9, provides another means of boosting the antiviral response. Combination therapy with cytokines (interferon gamma and tumor necrosis factor alpha) plus lamivudine is more effective than these agents used alone. Therapeutic vaccines are being developed as an alternative to long-term antiviral treatment or as an adjunct.
Colorectal Cancer in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis and Surveillance
Authors: Wang Zhen-Hua , Fang Jing-Yuan
Published: July 2014

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD; including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) is associated with an increased risk for colorectal cancer (CRC). Chronic mucosal inflammation is a key factor in the onset of carcinogenesis in IBD patients. Although most gene alterations that cause sporadic CRCs also occur in patients with IBD-associated CRC, some gene sequences and mutation frequencies differ between sporadic CRCs and IBD-associated CRCs. Summary: This review explores the incidence of CRC in IBD patients, with the goal of identifying the risk and protective factors for CRC in order to facilitate dysplasia management via individualized surveillance strategies. Key Message: The incidence of CRC is higher among IBD patients. Identifying the risk and protective factors for CRC will facilitate dysplasia management via individualized surveillance strategies. Practical Implications: Several risk factors, including active inflammation, the coexistence of primary sclerosing cholangitis, a family history of sporadic CRC and the extent and duration of colonic disease, can lead to the development of CRC in patients with IBD. These risk factors should be utilized in individualized surveillance strategies to lower CRC incidence among IBD patients. Use of 5-aminosalicylic acid may play an important role in CRC prevention. Until newer, more reliable markers of IBD-associated CRC risk are found, dysplasia will continue to be the best marker of CRC risk in IBD. Dysplasia management continues to play a key role in preventing the progression of carcinogenesis.
An Update on Helicobacter pylori as the Cause of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zhang Wei , Lu Hong , Graham David Y.
Published: July 2014

Background: Gastric cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The vast majority of gastric cancers are inflammation-related cancers caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori. H. pylori-induced oxidative stress damages DNA, resulting in genetic instability. In addition, H. pylori itself can cause DNA damage and epigenetic changes that trigger genetic instability and neoplastic transformation. Summary:H. pylori strain-specific components act in combination with host factors and environmental and dietary factors to greatly enhance the inflammatory response and thus the cancer risk. Variations in several key factors, such as the cag pathogenicity island and the VacA protein, can trigger a greater inflammatory response in host cells. Genetic polymorphisms in the host such as in the IL-1β gene, and chromosomes 9p21.3 and 10q23 also play a contributing role. Finally, diet is a major external factor that modulates the risk of gastric cancer. Key Message: The majority of gastric cancers are inflammation-related cancers caused by infection with H. pylori. Eradication of H. pylori is important for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer. Practical Implications:H. pylori eradication results in healing of gastritis and prevention of further H. pylori-induced genetic damage. Eradication of H. pylori prior to development of atrophic gastritis can prevent the development of gastric cancer. Japan has undertaken a nationwide program to identify and eliminate H. pylori, along with surveillance for those who underwent H. pylori eradication too late to eliminate cancer risk. Population-wide eradication of H. pylori will result in gastric cancer becoming a vanishingly rare disease.
Migration of Intraocular Silicone Oil from the Vitreous Cavity into the Upper Eyelid Causing Ptosis
Authors: Deguchi Yuzo , Maeno Takatoshi , Hori Yuichi , Hiruta Nobuyuki , Sasai Daisuke , Sato Yukihiro
Published: July 2014

Introduction: To report a case in which intraocular silicone oil migrated into the upper eyelid and caused ptosis. Methods: A 65-year-old woman presented with proliferative vitreoretinopathy in the right eye. Vitrectomies, injection of silicone oil and encircling were performed. Two months after the last operation, swelling of her right eyelid occurred. Result: Magnetic resonance imaging revealed moisture in the palpebral fat tissue. We incised the bulbar conjunctiva and confirmed silicone oil leakage from the vitreous cavity through the scleral button hole of the encircling suture. Postoperatively, the right upper eyelid swelling decreased. Histopathologically, dense macrophage infiltration was seen in the palpebral tissues. Conclusions: We report a rare case with a postoperative complication caused by silicone oil. In cases with swelling of the eyelid and decreased silicon oil in the vitreous cavity postoperatively, clinicians should consider the possibility of silicone oil leakage.
Infantile Cellular Schwannoma Developing on the Skin with Atypical Clinical Features
Authors: Fujimura Taku , Tagami Hachiro , Aiba Setsuya
Published: July 2014

Cellular schwannoma (CS) is a variety of schwannoma with a predominantly cellular growth, normally developing in middle-aged patients. In this report, we describe a 15-month-old infant with primary cutaneous CS on the knee. Because of its histologically malignant features, CS is sometimes overdiagnosed as a malignant nerve tumor. Therefore, awareness of this variant of schwannoma is important for dermatologists to avoid needless treatments for patients with CS.
Adrenomedullin and Arterial Stiffness
Authors: Beygui Farzin , Wild Philipp S. , Zeller Tanja , Germain Marine , Castagné Raphaele , Lackner Karl J. , Münzel Thomas , Montalescot Gilles , Mitchell Gary F. , Verwoert Germaine C. , Tarasov Kirill V. , Trégouët David-Alexandre , Cambien François , Blankenberg Stefan , Tiret Laurence
Published: July 2014

Background—

Adrenomedullin (ADM) is a circulating vasoactive peptide involved in vascular homeostasis and endothelial function. Single nucleotide polymorphisms of the
ADM
gene are associated with blood pressure variability, and elevated levels of plasma midregional proadrenomedullin (MR-pro-ADM) are associated with cardiovascular diseases.

Methods and Results—

We investigated the sources of variability of
ADM
gene expression and plasma MR-pro-ADM concentrations in the general population, and their relationship with markers of atherosclerosis. MR-pro-ADM levels were assessed in 4155 individuals who underwent evaluation of carotid intima-media thickness and arterial rigidity (reflection index and stiffness index). In a subsample of 1372 individuals,
ADM
gene expression was assessed as part of a transcriptomic study of circulating monocytes. Nongenetic factors explained 45.8% and 7.5% of MR-pro-ADM and
ADM
expression variability, respectively.
ADM
expression correlated with plasma C-reactive protein, interleukin-receptor 1A, and myeloperoxidase, whereas MR-pro-ADM levels correlated with C-terminal proendothelin-1, creatinine, and N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide. Genome-wide association study of
ADM
expression and MR-pro-ADM levels both identified a single locus encompassing the
ADM
gene.
ADM
expression was associated with 1 single nucleotide polymorphism rs11042717 (
P
=2.36×10
−12
), whereas MR-pro-ADM was associated with 2 single nucleotide polymorphisms with additive effects, rs2957692 (
P
=1.54×10
−13
) and rs2957717 (
P
=4.24×10
−8
). Reflection index was independently associated with rs11042717 (
P
<10
–4
) and
ADM
expression (
P
=0.0002) but not with MR-pro-ADM. Weaker associations were observed for stiffness index. Intima-media thickness was not related to
ADM
single nucleotide polymorphisms or expression.

Conclusions—

These results support an involvement of the
ADM
gene in the modulation of peripheral vascular tone.
Aortic Valve Adaptation to Aortic Root Dilatation
Authors: Kim Dae-Hee , Handschumacher Mark D. , Levine Robert A. , Sun Byung Joo , Jang Jeong Yoon , Yang Dong Hyun , Kang Joon-Won , Song Jong-Min , Kang Duk-Hyun , Lim Tae-Hwan , Song Jae-Kwan
Published: July 2014

Background—

The 3-dimensional relationship between aortic root and cusp is essential to understand the mechanism of aortic regurgitation (AR) because of aortic root dilatation (ARD). We sought to test the hypothesis that the stretched cusps in ARD enlarge to compensate for ARD.

Methods and Results—

Computed tomography imaged 92 patients (57 with ARD, 29 with moderate to severe AR, 28 without significant AR) and 35 normal controls. Specialized 3-dimensional software measured individual cusp surface areas relative to maximal mid-sinus cross-sectional area and minimal 3-dimensional annular area, coaptation area fraction, and asymmetry of sinus volumes and intercommissural distances. Total open cusp surface area increased (
P
<0.001) from 7.6±1.4 cm
2
/m
2
in normals to 12.9±2.2 cm
2
/m
2
in AR-negative and 15.2±3.3 cm
2
/m
2
in AR-positive patients. However, the ratio of closed cusp surface area to maximal mid-sinus area, reflecting cusp adaptation, decreased from normals to AR-negative to AR-positive patients (1.38±0.20, 1.15±0.15, 0.88±0.15;
P
<0.001), creating the lowest coaptation area fraction. Cusp distensibility (closed diastolic versus open area) decreased from 20% in controls and AR-negative patients to 5% in AR-positive patients (
P
<0.001). Multivariate determinants of AR and coaptation area fraction reflected both sinus size and cusp-to-annular adaptation. ARD was also progressively asymmetrical with root size, and individual cusp surface areas failed to match this asymmetry.

Conclusions—

Aortic cusp enlargement occurs in ARD, but cusp adaptation and distensibility become limited in prominent, asymmetrical ARD, leading to AR. Optimal AR repair tailored to individual patient anatomy can benefit from appreciating valve adaptation and 3-dimensional relationships; understanding cusp adaptation mechanisms may ultimately provide therapeutic opportunities to improve such compensation.
Defining the Optimal Cardiac Troponin T Threshold for Predicting Death Caused by Periprocedural Myocardial Infarction After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Herrmann Joerg , Lennon Ryan J. , Jaffe Allan S. , Holmes David R. , Rihal Charanjit S. , Prasad Abhiram
Published: July 2014

Background—

There is controversy about the diagnostic and prognostic significance of percutaneous coronary intervention–related myocardial infarction, especially with the use of cardiac troponin T (cTnT). This analysis was designed to address the question of the presence and the level of a prognostic cTnT threshold.

Methods and Results—

We evaluated 5268 consecutive patients who underwent nonemergent percutaneous coronary intervention between 2000 and 2009 with a preprocedural cTnT level below the upper limit of normal (ULN, ≤0.01 ng/mL). Postprocedural cTnT and creatine kinase-MB mass levels (ULN, 6.7 ng/mL in men and 3.8 ng/mL in women) were found to be associated with 3-month mortality in Cox proportional hazard models (hazard ratio per doubling of cTnT, 1.24; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.43;
P
=0.003 and hazard ratio per doubling of creatine kinase-MB, 1.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–1.60;
P
=0.018), adjusted for the Mayo Clinic risk scores for in-hospital and postdischarge mortality. The optimal prognostic threshold for 3-month mortality was 25× ULN for cTnT (hazard ratio, 4.53; 99% confidence interval, 1.59–12.9;
P
<0.001), which provided similar information as a value of 5× ULN for creatine kinase-MB (hazard ratio, 4.31; 99% confidence interval, 1.27–14.6;
P
=0.002). The cumulative mortality rate was 0.6% at 91 days.

Conclusions—

A significant association of postpercutaneous coronary intervention cardiac biomarker elevation with a small number of postpercutaneous coronary intervention outcomes was noted for the early (first 91 days) follow-up period with an identifiable optimal threshold of 25× ULN (0.25, ng/mL) for cTnT, which provided similar early outcome information as a cutoff of 5× ULN for creatine kinase-MB.
Fetal Aortic Valvuloplasty for Evolving Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Freud Lindsay R. , McElhinney Doff B. , Marshall Audrey C. , Marx Gerald R. , Friedman Kevin G. , del Nido Pedro J. , Emani Sitaram M. , Lafranchi Terra , Silva Virginia , Wilkins-Haug Louise E. , Benson Carol B. , Lock James E. , Tworetzky Wayne
Published: July 2014

Background—

Fetal aortic valvuloplasty can be performed for severe midgestation aortic stenosis in an attempt to prevent progression to hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). A subset of patients has achieved a biventricular (BV) circulation after fetal aortic valvuloplasty. The postnatal outcomes and survival of the BV patients, in comparison with those managed as HLHS, have not been reported.

Methods and Results—

We included 100 patients who underwent fetal aortic valvuloplasty for severe midgestation aortic stenosis with evolving HLHS from March 2000 to January 2013. Patients were categorized based on postnatal management as BV or HLHS. Clinical records were reviewed. Eighty-eight fetuses were live-born, and 38 had a BV circulation (31 from birth, 7 converted after initial univentricular palliation). Left-sided structures, namely aortic and mitral valve sizes and left ventricular volume, were significantly larger in the BV group at the time of birth (
P
<0.01). After a median follow-up of 5.4 years, freedom from cardiac death among all BV patients was 96±4% at 5 years and 84±12% at 10 years, which was better than HLHS patients (log-rank
P
=0.04). There was no cardiac mortality in patients with a BV circulation from birth. All but 1 of the BV patients required postnatal intervention; 42% underwent aortic or mitral valve replacement. On the most recent echocardiogram, the median left ventricular end-diastolic volume
z
score was +1.7 (range, −1.3 to +8.2), and 80% had normal ejection fraction.

Conclusions—

Short- and intermediate-term survival among patients who underwent fetal aortic valvuloplasty and achieved a BV circulation postnatally is encouraging. However, morbidity still exists, and ongoing assessment is warranted.
B‐type Natriuretic Peptides for the Prediction of Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Stable Coronary Heart Disease: The Heart and Soul Study
Authors: Mishra Rakesh K. , Beatty Alexis L. , Jaganath Rajesh , Regan Mathilda , Wu Alan H.B. , Whooley Mary A.
Published: July 2014

Background

Brain‐type natriuretic peptide (
BNP
) and the amino‐terminal fragment of its prohormone (
NT
‐pro
BNP
) are known predictors of cardiovascular outcomes in patients with coronary heart disease; however, the relative prognostic value of these 2 biomarkers for secondary events remains unclear.

Methods and Results

In 983 participants with stable
coronary heart disease
, we evaluated the association of
BNP
and
NT
‐pro
BNP
with time to hospitalization for heart failure, nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke or transient ischemic attack, cardiovascular death, and combined major adverse cardiovascular events (
MACE
). During an average follow‐up of 6.5±3.3 years, both
BNP
and
NT
‐pro
BNP
were associated with increased risk of
MACE
in a multivariable‐adjusted model (hazard ratio per standard deviation of log
BNP
: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.32 to 1.89; hazard ratio per standard deviation of log
NT
‐proBNP: 1.84; 95% CI: 1.52 to 2.24). When added to traditional risk factors,
NT
‐pro
BNP
predicted
MACE
better than
BNP
(C statistic: 0.76 versus 0.72,
P
<0.001). Similarly, the addition of
NT
‐pro
BNP
resulted in a greater net reclassification improvement for predicting
MACE
than the addition of
BNP
(65% for
NT
‐pro
BNP
, 56% for
BNP
).

Conclusions

Both
BNP
and
NT
‐pro
BNP
were significant predictors of
MACE
in stable
coronary heart disease
; however,
NT
‐pro
BNP
was superior to
BNP
for net risk reclassification for
MACE
.
Distal Single Subcortical Infarction Had a Better Clinical Outcome Compared With Proximal Single Subcortical Infarction
Authors: Zhang Changqing , Wang Yilong , Zhao Xingquan , Wang David , Liu Liping , Wang Chunxue , Pu Yuehua , Zou Xinying , Du Wanliang , Jing Jing , Pan Yuesong , Wong Ka Sing , Wang Yongjun
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose—

Single subcortical infarction (SSI) may be classified as proximal SSI (pSSI) or distal SSI (dSSI) according to its location within the middle cerebral artery territory. Few studies have examined the differences in clinical outcome between the two. Our study investigated such differences in patients with pSSI or dSSI and examined their baseline characteristics and indicators for small-vessel disease.

Methods—

We prospectively enrolled 400 patients with SSI (208 pSSI and 192 dSSI) who had no middle cerebral artery disease on MR angiography. Data compared included clinical information, lesion size, prevalence of lacune and leukoaraiosis at baseline, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score and modified Rankin Scale score at discharge, and any deterioration during admission or recurrence of ischemic stroke <1 year.

Results—

In multivariable logistic regression analysis, dSSI was independently associated with patient’s history of stroke, admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≤3, Fazekas score ≥3, presence of lacune, but not hyperlipidemia. Patients with dSSI had shorter length of hospital stay, lower rate of functional dependence at discharge (modified Rankin Scale score ≥2), and lower deterioration or recurrence risk of ischemic stroke in 1 year. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that factors associated with higher deterioration or recurrence risk of ischemic stroke at 1 year included female sex, history of coronary heart disease, pSSI, and not on antithrombotics <48 hours of admission.

Conclusions—

Compared with pSSI, patients with dSSI likely had small-vessel diseases but better clinical outcome.
The Chinese Model of Development: Characteristics, Interpretations, Implications
Authors: So Alvin Y.
Published: July 2014

Influenced by promising economic indicators, the mass media and policy circles have begun to use the term “China Model” to celebrate China’s fast-speed development. However, researchers are still not clear what exactly the China Model is. This paper provides a critical examination of the China Model of development. This paper starts with a discussion of what are the major characteristics of the China Model and why the developing countries are attracted to them. Then this paper argues that researchers should not take the China Model for granted because its ingredients are highly contested. Finally, this paper discusses what implication the China Model has for developing countries.
Torrenticolid water mites (Acari: Hydrachnidia: Torrenticolidae) from Malaysian Borneo
Authors: PEŠIĆ VLADIMIR , SMIT HARRY
Published: July 2014

New records of water mites of the family Torrenticolidae (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from streams in two mountain ranges in northern Borneo are presented. Aims of this study were to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships of the newly collected torrenticolids using molecular methods, and describe all new species. A fragment of the mtCOI gene was successfully PCR-amplified from 18 torrenticolid specimens and 14 new species are described: Torrenticola (Torrenticola) borneoensis n. sp., T. (T.) kinabaluensis n. sp., T. (T.) sabahensis n. sp., T. (T.) neoindica n. sp., T. (T.) schilthuizeni n. sp., Neoatractides (Allotorrenticola) sundaensis n. sp., N. (Heteratractides) uniscutatus n. sp., Pseudotorrenticola borneoensis n. sp., Monatractides (Monatractides) epiales n. sp., M. (M.) morpheus n. sp., M. (M.) phantasos n. sp., M. (M.) phobetor n. sp., M. (M.) hercules n. sp. and M. (M.) minuta n. sp. Additionally, the first records for Borneo are given for Torrenticola (Megapalpis) cf. pugionirostris (K. Viets, 1939), Monatractides (Monatractides) longiventris (K. Viets, 1939), M. (M.) cf. macroporus (K. Viets, 1935) and M. (M.) oxystomus (K. Viets, 1935). Monatractides tobaensis (K. Viets, 1935) is transferred to the subgenus Vietsclio Pešić & Smit, 2014. A key to the species of Monatractides is presented.
Numerical Computations of the Latitudinal Variation of Solar Radiation for an Atmosphere of Varying Opacity
Authors: Atwater Marshall A. , Brown Philip S.
Published: July 2014

A model for incoming solar radiation is developed for use with readily available meteorological data and is designed for efficiency and accuracy. Purameterizations are used to account for Rayleigh and Mie scattering and for absorption by permanent gases, water vapor and aerosols. Clouds are incorporated in the model by employing Manabe and Strickler's methods, and by including the transmission functions of Haurwitz. Results compare favorably with results of more sophisticated models and with observations taken during BOMEX and IFYGL. The latitudinal effects of various aerosol concentrations in the presence of clouds are examined. For a given aerosol opacity, it is found that the doily summer insolation has larger reductions near the poles than near the equator.
Assessing the Impact of L-Band Observations on Drought and Flood Risk Estimation: A Decision-Theoretic Approach in an OSSE Environment
Authors: Kumar Sujay V. , Harrison Kenneth W. , Peters-Lidard Christa D. , Santanello Joseph A. , Kirschbaum Dalia
Published: July 2014

Observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs) are often conducted to evaluate the worth of existing data and data yet to be collected from proposed new missions. As missions increasingly require a broader “Earth systems” focus, it is important that the OSSEs capture the potential benefits of the observations on end-use applications. Toward this end, the results from the OSSEs must also be evaluated with a suite of metrics that capture the value, uncertainty, and information content of the observations while factoring in both science and societal impacts. This article presents a soil moisture OSSE that employs simulated L-band measurements and assesses its utility toward improving drought and flood risk estimates using the NASA Land Information System (LIS). A decision-theory-based analysis is conducted to assess the economic utility of the observations toward improving these applications. The results suggest that the improvements in surface soil moisture, root-zone soil moisture, and total runoff fields obtained through the assimilation of L-band measurements are effective in providing improvements in the drought and flood risk assessments as well. The decision-theory analysis not only demonstrates the economic utility of observations but also shows that the use of probabilistic information from the model simulations is more beneficial compared to the use of corresponding deterministic estimates. The experiment also demonstrates the value of a comprehensive modeling environment such as LIS for conducting end-to-end OSSEs by linking satellite observations, physical models, data assimilation algorithms, and end-use application models in a single integrated framework.
A Thermohaline Inverse Method for Estimating Diathermohaline Circulation and Mixing
Authors: Groeskamp Sjoerd , Zika Jan D. , Sloyan Bernadette M. , McDougall Trevor J. , McIntosh Peter C.
Published: July 2014

The thermohaline inverse method (THIM) is presented that provides estimates of the diathermohaline streamfunction , the downgradient along-isopycnal diffusion coefficient K, and the isotropic downgradient turbulent diffusion coefficient D of small-scale mixing processes. This is accomplished by using the water mass transformation framework in two tracer dimensions: here in Absolute Salinity SA and Conservative Temperature Θ coordinates. The authors show that a diathermal volume transport down a Conservative Temperature gradient is related to surface heating and cooling and mixing, and a diahaline volume transport down an Absolute Salinity gradient is related to surface freshwater fluxes and mixing. Both the diahaline and diathermal flows can be calculated using readily observed parameters that are used to produce climatologies, surface flux products, and mixing parameterizations for K and D. Conservation statements for volume, salt, and heat in (SA, Θ) coordinates, using the diahaline and diathermal volume transport expressed as surface freshwater and heat fluxes and mixing, allow for the formulation of a system of equations that is solved by an inverse method that can estimate the unknown diathermohaline streamfunction and the diffusion coefficients K and D. The inverse solution provides an accurate estimate of , K, and D when tested against a numerical climate model for which all these parameters are known.
Water Level and Wave Height Estimates at NOAA Tide Stations from Acoustic and Microwave Sensors
Authors: Park Joseph , Heitsenrether Robert , Sweet William
Published: July 2014

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is transitioning the primary water level sensor at the majority of tide stations in the National Water Level Observation Network (NWLON) from an acoustic ranging system to a microwave radar system. Field comparison of the acoustic and microwave systems finds statistically equivalent performance when temperature gradients between the acoustic sensor and water surface are small and when significant wave height is less than roughly 0.5 m. When significant wave height is greater than approximately 0.5–1 m, the acoustic system consistently reports lower water levels. An analysis of 2 months of acoustic and microwave water level data at Duck, North Carolina, finds that the majority of differences between the two sensors can be attributed to systemic errors in the acoustic system and that the microwave system captures water level variability with higher fidelity than the acoustic system. NWLON real-time data products include the water level standard deviation, a statistic that can serve as a proxy for significant wave height. This study identifies 29 coastal water level stations that are candidates for monitoring wave height based on water level standard deviation, potentially adding a significant source of data for the sparsely sampled coastal wave fields around the United States, and finds that the microwave sensor is better suited than the acoustic system for wave height estimates.
High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein and Statin Initiation
Authors: Trpkovic Andreja , Stanimirovic Julijana , Rizzo Manfredi , Resanovic Ivana , Soskic Sanja , Jevremovic Danimir , Isenovic Esma R.
Published: July 2014

The assessment of cardiovascular risk and treatment of cardiovascular diseases are major public health issues worldwide. Inflammation is now recognized as a key regulatory process that links multiple risk factors for atherosclerosis. The substantial number of patients having cardiovascular events lack commonly established risk factors. The utility of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), a circulating biomarker related to inflammation, may provide additional information in risk prediction. This review will consider the impact of hsCRP level on initiation of statin therapy.
Predicting Self-Esteem and Intentions to Seek Counseling
Authors: Lannin Daniel G. , Vogel David L. , Brenner Rachel E. , Tucker Jeritt R.
Published: July 2014

This investigation introduced the Internalized Stigma Model to test the mechanisms by which the stigma of mental illness and of seeking psychological help affect self-esteem and intentions to seek counseling. We hypothesized that both stigmas would predict decreased self-esteem, but only stigma of seeking psychological help would predict decreased intentions to seek counseling. Furthermore, we predicted that these links follow a process wherein people’s perceptions of societal stigma are fully mediated by internalization of that stigma. Public stigmas predict their respective self-stigmas, which subsequently predict self-esteem and intentions. Using structural equation modeling, we tested the hypothesized relationships in a sample of undergraduates ( N = 448). Results supported the hypotheses. Self-stigma mediated the relationship between public stigma and both outcomes; both self-stigma of mental illness and self-stigma of seeking psychological help predicted decreased self-esteem, but only self-stigma of seeking psychological help predicted decreased intentions to seek counseling.
Reciprocal Dialogue Between Educational Decision Makers and Students of Color
Authors: Bertrand Melanie
Published: July 2014

Purpose: This article explores the possibilities for reciprocal dialogue between educational decision makers and Students of Color. Such dialogue—defined as interactions in which participants build on each other’s words—may provide the means to develop creative ways to address manifestations of systemic racism in education. The article uses the concept of Third Space to investigate how educational decision makers responded to a group of high school Students of Color advocating for change. Research Method: The data for the article come from two studies investigating the influence of the students in the group, who were engaged in youth participatory action research. The analysis focuses on interviews conducted with decision makers who attended the group’s presentations. Findings: The analysis revealed that many educational decision makers responded to the group’s presentations in ways that limited the potential for future reciprocal dialogue with students. These decision makers’ responses most often focused on aspects of the students’ performance at presentations. In contrast, the responses that promoted reciprocal dialogue, which were rare, focused on the content of the presentations. Implications for Research and Practice: The study identifies discursive preconditions of reciprocal dialogue—an aspect of Third Spaces—and demonstrates the potential of such dialogue in challenging systemic racism in education. In light of these insights, future research should examine (a) the relationship of reciprocal dialogue to possibilities for shared decision making and (b) the ways that such decision making may challenge or fail to challenge aspects of systemic racism in education.
Dynamic Vibrotactile Signals for Forward Collision Avoidance Warning Systems
Authors: Meng Fanxing , Gray Rob , Ho Cristy , Ahtamad Mujthaba , Spence Charles
Published: July 2014

Objective:

Four experiments were conducted in order to assess the effectiveness of dynamic vibrotactile collision-warning signals in potentially enhancing safe driving.

Background:

Auditory neuroscience research has demonstrated that auditory signals that move toward a person are more salient than those that move away. If this looming effect were found to extend to the tactile modality, then it could be utilized in the context of in-car warning signal design.

Method:

The effectiveness of various vibrotactile warning signals was assessed using a simulated car-following task. The vibrotactile warning signals consisted of dynamic toward-/away-from-torso cues (Experiment 1), dynamic versus static vibrotactile cues (Experiment 2), looming-intensity- and constant-intensity-toward-torso cues (Experiment 3), and static cues presented on the hands or on the waist, having either a low or high vibration intensity (Experiment 4).

Results:

Braking reaction times (BRTs) were significantly faster for toward-torso as compared to away-from-torso cues (Experiments 1 and 2) and static cues (Experiment 2). This difference could not have been attributed to differential responses to signals delivered to different body parts (i.e., the waist vs. hands; Experiment 4). Embedding a looming-intensity signal into the toward-torso signal did not result in any additional BRT benefits (Experiment 3).

Conclusion:

Dynamic vibrotactile cues that feel as though they are approaching the torso can be used to communicate information concerning external events, resulting in a significantly faster reaction time to potential collisions.

Application:

Dynamic vibrotactile warning signals that move toward the body offer great potential for the design of future in-car collision-warning system.
Accurate damping analysis of viscoelastic composite beams and plates on suppressive foundation
Authors: Zamani HA , Bodaghi M , Aghdam MM , Salehi M
Published: July 2014

An accurate study for dynamic behavior of viscoelastic thin laminated composite beams and plates resting on viscoelastic foundations is presented. Boltzmann superposition integral based on the dynamic mechanical analysis results is adapted to accurately predict viscoelastic behavior of polymeric fiber-reinforced composite structures. Also, foundation viscoelasticity is described based on the Kelvin–Voigt model. Integro-differential governing equations of motion are derived based on classical lamination theory via Hamilton principle. Galerkin weighted residual method, iterative QZ algorithm, and Fourier transform are applied to obtain natural frequency, loss factor, and transient response of structures resting on suppressive foundations. Influence of foundation and geometrical parameters and also boundary conditions on the dynamic behavior is put into evidence via a parametric study, and pertinent conclusions are outlined. Due to the absence of similar results in the literature, this paper is likely to fill a gap in the state of the art of this problem.