bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Features of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy - A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Dias Andre , Franco Emiliana , Mercedes Ana , Hebert Kathy , Messina Dino , Quevedo Henry C.
Published: August 2013

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC), also known as transient apical ballooning syndrome or stress-induced cardiomyopathy, is a distinctive reversible condition often affecting postmenopausal women after a stressful event. It is characterized by sudden temporary systolic dysfunction of the apical and/or mid-segments of the left ventricle. The underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated, but several hypotheses include catecholamine cardiotoxicity, microvascular dysfunction and coronary artery spasm. We conducted a retrospective descriptive study on patients with the discharge diagnosis of TTC from 2003 to 2012 at Danbury Hospital, Danbury, Conn., USA. A total of 78 patients met the Modified Mayo Criteria for the Diagnosis of TTC and were included in the study. Clinical characteristics at baseline, past surgical and medical history including psychiatric records were reviewed and recorded. The mean age was 70.5 ± 14 years, 87% (n = 68) were women, of which 11.7% (n = 8) were aged ≤55 years. Depression was present in 20.5% (n = 16) of the patients and anxiety in 30.8% (n = 24). Twenty-one patients (27.3%) reported a preceding emotional stressful event and 31 (40.3%) had a preceding physical stressor. Fifty patients (64.1%) presented with chest pain, 28 (35.9%) had ST-segment elevation upon admission and 5 (6.3%) died during their hospital stay. TTC is becoming an increasingly recognized condition and clinicians should include it in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with a suspected acute coronary syndrome. It is frequent in postmenopausal women with preceding physical or emotional stress and overall prognosis is good among patients who survive the initial acute phase of heart failure.
Imaging Findings Associated with Cognitive Performance in Primary Lateral Sclerosis and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Meoded Avner , Kwan Justin Y. , Peters Tracy L. , Huey Edward D. , Danielian Laura E. , Wiggs Edythe , Morrissette Arthur , Wu Tianxia , Russell James W. , Bayat Elham , Grafman Jordan , Floeter Mary Kay
Published: August 2013

Introduction: Executive dysfunction occurs in many patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but it has not been well studied in primary lateral sclerosis (PLS). The aims of this study were to (1) compare cognitive function in PLS to that in ALS patients, (2) explore the relationship between performance on specific cognitive tests and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics of white matter tracts and gray matter volumes, and (3) compare DTI metrics in patients with and without cognitive and behavioral changes. Methods: The Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS), the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (DRS-2), and other behavior and mood scales were administered to 25 ALS patients and 25 PLS patients. Seventeen of the PLS patients, 13 of the ALS patients, and 17 healthy controls underwent structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and DTI. Atlas-based analysis using MRI Studio software was used to measure fractional anisotropy, and axial and radial diffusivity of selected white matter tracts. Voxel-based morphometry was used to assess gray matter volumes. The relationship between diffusion properties of selected association and commissural white matter and performance on executive function and memory tests was explored using a linear regression model. Results: More ALS than PLS patients had abnormal scores on the DRS-2. DRS-2 and D-KEFS scores were related to DTI metrics in several long association tracts and the callosum. Reduced gray matter volumes in motor and perirolandic areas were not associated with cognitive scores. Conclusion: The changes in diffusion metrics of white matter long association tracts suggest that the loss of integrity of the networks connecting fronto-temporal areas to parietal and occipital areas contributes to cognitive impairment.
Long-Term Survival following Gross Total Resection of Pediatric Supratentorial Ependymomas without Adjuvant Therapy
Authors: Tanaka Toshihide , Kato Naoki , Hasegawa Yuzuru , Nonaka Yuichiro , Abe Toshiaki
Published: August 2013

Pediatric supratentorial ependymoma is very rare. In pediatric patients with supratentorial ependymoma, surgery alone may be an acceptable treatment when postoperative imaging confirms a gross total resection. Surgical resection is the standard and the most important treatment for ependymoma. The role of radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy following a gross total resection of supratentorial ependymoma has been uncertain. We report 2 cases of pediatric supratentorial ependymomas treated by gross total resection without postoperative adjuvant therapy. The first patient was a 7-year-old girl who presented with motor weakness and a hemiconvulsion of the right leg. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large heterogeneously enhanced tumor in the left frontal lobe. The second patient was an 8-year-old girl who presented with headache. MRI revealed a huge heterogeneously enhanced tumor in the left frontal lobe. Gross total resection was achieved in both patients. Postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy were avoided following gross total resection. Histologically, the lesions demonstrated grade II ependymoma and anaplastic ependymoma, respectively. After follow-up of 120 months, neither patient had recurrence or dissemination. These results suggest that patients with pediatric supratentorial ependymoma treated by gross total resection alone have a favorable outcome, and postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be avoided.
Association between Frailty and Dementia: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Kulmala Jenni , Nykänen Irma , Mänty Minna , Hartikainen Sirpa
Published: August 2013

Background: Frailty is commonly considered as a syndrome with several symptoms, including weight loss, exhaustion, weakness, slow walking speed and physical inactivity. It has been suggested that cognitive impairment should be included in the frailty index, however the association between frailty and cognition has not yet been fully established. Objective: To investigate cross-sectionally whether frailty is associated with cognitive impairment or clinically diagnosed dementia in older people. Methods: The study included a total of 654 persons aged 76-100 years (mean 82 ± 4.6). Frailty status of the participants was assessed using the Cardiovascular Health Study criteria. Cognitive function was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Clinically diagnosed dementia was assessed by specialists using diagnostic criteria. The associations between frailty and cognition were investigated using logistic regression. Results: A total of 93 (14%) participants were classified as frail. Cognitive impairment (MMSE score <25) was observed among 171 (26%) persons and 134 (21%) persons had clinically diagnosed dementia. 97 (15%) persons had Alzheimer's disease, 19 (3%) had vascular dementia, 12 (2%) had dementia with Lewy bodies and 8 persons (1%) had some other type of dementia. Multivariate logistic regression models showed that frail persons were almost 8 times more likely to have cognitive impairment (OR 7.8, 95% CI 4.0-15.0), 8 times more likely to have some kind of dementia (OR 8.0, 95% CI 4.0-15.9), almost 6 times more likely to have vascular dementia (OR 5.6, 95% CI 1.2-25.8) and over 4 times more likely to have Alzheimer's disease (OR 4.5, 95% CI 2.1-9.6) than persons who were robust. Conclusion: Frailty is strongly associated with cognitive impairment and clinically diagnosed dementia among persons aged 76 and older. It is possible that cognitive impairment is a clinical feature of frailty and therefore should be included in the frailty definition.
Incidence of Pancreatic Fistula after Distal Pancreatectomy and Efficacy of Endoscopic Therapy for Its Management: Results from a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Reddymasu Savio C. , Pakseresht Kavous , Moloney Brian , Alsop Benjamin , Oropezia-Vail Melissa , Olyaee Mojtaba
Published: August 2013

Pancreatic fistula is a known complication of distal pancreatectomy. Endotherapy with pancreatic duct stent placement and pancreatic sphincterotomy has been shown to be effective in its management; however, experience of endotherapy in the management of this complication has not been extensively reported from the United States. Preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with pancreatic stent placement has also been proposed to prevent this complication after distal pancreatectomy. In our cohort of 59 patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy, 13 (22%) developed a pancreatic fistula in the immediate postoperative period, of whom 8 (14%) patients (5 female, mean age 52 years) were referred for an ERCP because of ongoing symptoms related to the pancreatic fistula. The pancreatic fistula resolved in all patients after a median duration of 62 days from the index ERCP. The median number of ERCPs required to document resolution of the pancreatic fistula was 2. Although a sizeable percentage of patients develop a pancreatic fistula after distal pancreatectomy, only a small percentage of patients require ERCP for management of this complication. Given the high success rate of endotherapy in resolving pancreatic fistula and the fact that the majority of patients who undergo distal pancreatectomy never require an ERCP, performing ERCP for prophylactic pancreatic duct stent prior to distal pancreatectomy might not be necessary.
Correlation of Resistin with Inflammatory and Cardiometabolic Markers in Obese Adolescents with and without Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Makni Emna , Moalla Wassim , Benezzeddine-Boussaidi Lamia , Lac Gérard , Tabka Zouhair , Elloumi Mohammed
Published: August 2013

Objective: The link between plasma resistin and obesity-related cardiometabolic disorders in children remains debatable. This study assessed the relationships of plasma resistin with cardiovascular risk factors, pro-inflammatory markers and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) in obese (Ob) adolescents and obese adolescents with metabolic syndrome (Ob-MS) compared to healthy controls (CO). Methods: 114 obese adolescents (60 Ob, age 13.6 ± 0.9 years, BMI 28.0 ± 2.2 kg/m2, and 54 Ob-MS, age 13.8 ± 1.0 years, BMI 32.5 ± 4.8 kg/m2) and 37 CO (age 13.7 ± 0.8 years, BMI 22.8 ± 0.8 kg/m2) were studied. Anthropometrics, cardiac variables as well as fasting plasma concentrations of lipids, glucose, insulin, and adipocytokines (resistin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP)) were measured. HOMA-IR was calculated, and the presence of MS was assessed. Results: Plasma resistin was significantly higher in Ob-MS than in both Ob and CO and was correlated with anthropometric, cardiovascular, pro-inflammatory markers and several components of MS as was HOMA-IR in Ob and Ob-MS. With increasing the number of MS components, plasma resistin, pro-inflammatory markers, and HOMA-IR were also increased. Multiple regression models highlighted significant correlation between resistin and both HOMA-IR (r = 0.40, p < 0.05) and systolic blood pressure (r = 0.63, p < 0.01) in Ob-MS. Conclusion: These results support the hypothesis that there is an association between circulating resistin and childhood obesity-related inflammatory and cardiometabolic events.
N-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, Body Fat and Inflammation
Authors: Lund Anne-Sofie Q. , Hasselbalch Ann Louise , Gamborg Michael , Skogstrand Kristin , Hougaard David M. , Heitmann Berit L. , Kyvik Kirsten O. , Sørensen Thorkild I.A. , Jess Tine
Published: August 2013

Background: Based on animal studies, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have been suggested to lower the risk of obesity and inflammation. We aimed to investigate if, among humans, intake of n-3 PUFAs was associated with i) total body fat, ii) body fat distribution and iii) obesity-related inflammatory markers. Methods: The study population consisted of 1,212 healthy individuals with information on habitual food intake from food frequency questionnaires, six different measures of body fat, and levels of six circulating inflammatory markers. Multiple linear regression analysis of intakes of PUFAs in relation to outcomes were performed and adjusted for potential confounders. Results: Absolute n-3 PUFA intake, but not n-3/n-6, was inversely associated with the different measures of body fat. Among n-3 PUFA derivatives, only α-linolenic acid (ALA) was inversely associated with body fat measures. No significant interactions with the dietary macronutrient composition were observed. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were not associated with absolute PUFA intake, but the macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α) was associated with the n-3/n-6 ratio. Conclusion: In humans, intake of n-3 PUFAs, in particular ALA, is beneficially associated with body fatness. The favourable association is, however, not reflected in systemic levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, nor is it influenced by macronutrients in the diet.
Dose Response Association between Physical Activity and Biological, Demographic, and Perceptions of Health Variables
Authors: Loprinzi Paul D. , Lee Hyo , Cardinal Bradley J.
Published: August 2013

Background: Few population-based studies have examined the association between physical activity (PA) and cardiovascular disease risk factors, demographic variables, and perceptions of health status, and we do not have a clear understanding of the dose-response relationship among these variables. Methods: Data from the 2003-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was used to examine the dose-response relationship between objectively measured PA and metabolic syndrome (and its individual cardiovascular disease risk factors), demographic variables, and perceptions of health. After exclusions, 5,538 participants 18 years or older were included in the present study, with 2,538 participants providing fasting glucose and 2,527 providing fasting triglyceride data. PA was categorized into deciles. Results: Overall, the health benefits showed a general pattern of increase with each increasing levels of PA. Of the ten PA classifications examined, participants in the highest moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) category (at least 71 min/day) had the lowest odds of developing metabolic syndrome. Conclusion: At a minimum, sedentary adults should strive to meet current PA guidelines (i.e., 150 min/week of MVPA), with additional positive benefits associated with engaging in three times this level of PA.
Diphenylcyclopropenone-Induced Vitiligo in a Patient with Alopecia Universalis
Authors: Riad Hassan , Al Mannai Haya , Mansour Khalid , Al Qaatri Khalifa , Al Dosari Sharifa , Al Obaidaly Amina , Sultan Emad
Published: August 2013

Alopecia areata and vitiligo are autoimmune diseases, both associated with multiple autoimmune comorbidities. Many studies show colocalization of these diseases at the same anatomical site. Here, we have a case where both disorders were reported to present in the same patient. Diphenylcyclopropenone (diphencyprone, DCP) is used in the treatment of alopecia areata and may induce vitiligo in some patients. We report on one case of vitiligo that was induced by DCP during therapy for alopecia universalis. Alopecia areata and vitiligo share many susceptibility genes. Follicular melanocyte destruction may represent the link between the two diseases.
Fruit and Vegetable Consumption With Risk of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Stackelberg Otto , Björck Martin , Larsson Susanna C. , Orsini Nicola , Wolk Alicja
Published: August 2013

Background—

Dietary factors affecting the risk of developing abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are scarcely investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations of fruit and vegetable consumption with the risk to develop AAA.

Methods and Results—

The prospective Cohort of Swedish Men and the Swedish Mammography Cohort, consisting of 44 317 men and 36 09 women, 46 to 84 years of age at the start of the 13-year follow-up (1998–2010), were used. Fruit and vegetable consumption was assessed at baseline with a 96-item food-frequency questionnaire. By linkage to the Swedish Inpatient Register and the Swedish Vascular Registry (Swedvasc), 1086 primary cases of AAA (222 ruptured) were identified. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Those in the highest quartile of fruit consumption (>2.0 servings/d), in comparison with those in the lowest quartile (<0.7 servings/d), had a 25% (95% CI, 9%–38%) lower risk of AAA, and a 43% (95% CI, 11%–64%) lower risk of ruptured AAA, specifically. Consumption of 2 fruits per day was associated with 31% (95% CI, 11%–47%) lower risk of nonruptured AAA, and 39% (95% CI, 1%–63%) lower risk of ruptured AAA, in comparison with no consumption of fruit. No association was observed between vegetable consumption and AAA risk.

Conclusions—

We observed an inverse association between consumption of fruit, but not vegetables, and the risk of AAA, with a more pronounced association with ruptured AAA.
Paronychia ubinensis (Caryophyllaceae: Paronychioideae) a new species from Moquegua, South Peru
Authors: MONTESINOS TUBÉE DANIEL B.
Published: August 2013

As part of the botanical and phytosociological characterisation of the Moqueguan flora, several Caryophyllaceae were studied. A specimen that was collected from the Ubinas district is named Paronychia ubinensis (Caryophyllaceae: Paronychioideae) and described as a new species. This species is compared with its closest relatives P. andina, P. mandoniana, P. muschleri, P. peruviana and P. weberbaueri from Southern Peru.
Physalis victoriana (Solanaceae) a new species from Northern Argentina
Authors: TOLEDO JOSÉ M.
Published: August 2013

A new species of Physalis (Solanaceae, Solanoideae) endemic to northern Argentina is described as Physalis victoriana. It is an annual herb, with simple and antrorse trichomes, leaves obtuse at base, with undulate and sparsely toothed margins, yellow corolla without macules, and dark green to dark brown berries. Description, illustrations, field pictures, and a distribution map of the new species are included.
Discovery of the South African fauna of Allophrys Förster (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Tersicochinae)
Authors: KHALAIM A. I.
Published: August 2013

Eight species of the genus Allophrys Förster are found to occur in South Africa: A. astafurovae sp. nov., A. broadi sp. nov., A. calculator sp. nov., A. dictator sp. nov., A. excavator sp. nov., A. granulata sp. nov., A. scitula sp. nov. and            A. tractor sp. nov. All these species have body length 2.5–3.4 mm and fore wing length 1.7–2.3 mm, and along with members of the genus Aneuclis Förster are the smallest Afrotropical tersilochines. An identification key to eight South African species of Allophrys is provided.
A Formal Analysis of the Feedback Concept in Climate Models. Part I: Exclusive and Inclusive Feedback Analyses*
Authors: Lahellec Alain , Dufresne Jean-Louis
Published: August 2013

Climate sensitivity and feedback are key concepts if the complex behavior of climate response to perturbation is to be interpreted in a simple way. They have also become an essential tool for comparing global circulation models and assessing the reason for the spread in their results. The authors introduce a formal basic model to analyze the practical methods used to infer climate feedbacks and sensitivity from GCMs. The tangent linear model is used first to critically review the standard methods of feedback analyses that have been used in the GCM community for 40 years now. This leads the authors to distinguish between exclusive feedback analyses as in the partial radiative perturbation approach and inclusive analyses as in the “feedback suppression” methods. This review explains the hypotheses needed to apply these methods with confidence. Attention is paid to the more recent regression technique applied to the abrupt 2×CO2 experiment. A numerical evaluation of it is given, related to the Lyapunov analysis of the dynamical feature of the regression. It is applied to the Planck response, determined in its most strict definition within the GCM. In this approach, the Planck feedback becomes a dynamical feedback among others and, as such, also has a fast response differing from its steady-state profile.
A New Method to Estimate Three-Dimensional Residual-Mean Circulation in the Middle Atmosphere and Its Application to Gravity Wave–Resolving General Circulation Model Data
Authors: Sato Kaoru , Kinoshita Takenari , Okamoto Kota
Published: August 2013

A new method is proposed to estimate three-dimensional (3D) material circulation driven by waves based on recently derived formulas by Kinoshita and Sato that are applicable to both Rossby waves and gravity waves. The residual-mean flow is divided into three, that is, balanced flow, unbalanced flow, and Stokes drift. The latter two are wave-induced components estimated from momentum flux divergence and heat flux divergence, respectively. The unbalanced mean flow is equivalent to the zonal-mean flow in the two-dimensional (2D) transformed Eulerian mean (TEM) system. Although these formulas were derived using the “time mean,” the underlying assumption is the separation of spatial or temporal scales between the mean and wave fields. Thus, the formulas can be used for both transient and stationary waves. Considering that the average is inherently needed to remove an oscillatory component of unaveraged quadratic functions, the 3D wave activity flux and wave-induced residual-mean flow are estimated by an extended Hilbert transform. In this case, the scale of mean flow corresponds to the whole scale of the wave packet. Using simulation data from a gravity wave–resolving general circulation model, the 3D structure of the residual-mean circulation in the stratosphere and mesosphere is examined for January and July. The zonal-mean field of the estimated 3D circulation is consistent with the 2D circulation in the TEM system. An important result is that the residual-mean circulation is not zonally uniform in both the stratosphere and mesosphere. This is likely caused by longitudinally dependent wave sources and propagation characteristics. The contribution of planetary waves and gravity waves to these residual-mean flows is discussed.
The Role of GPS Precipitable Water Vapor and Atmosphere Stability Index in the Statistically Based Rainfall Estimation Using MTSAT Data
Authors: Yuga Suseno Dwi Prabowo , Yamada Tomohito J.
Published: August 2013

A rainfall estimation method was developed based on the statistical relationships between cloud-top temperature and rainfall rates acquired by both the 10.8-μm channel of the Multi-Functional Transport Satellite (MTSAT) series and the Automated Meteorological Data Acquisition System (AMeDAS) C-band radar, respectively. The method focused on cumulonimbus (Cb) clouds and was developed in the period of June–September 2010 and 2011 over the landmass of Japan and its surrounding area. Total precipitable water vapor (PWV) and atmospheric vertical instability were considered to represent the atmospheric environmental conditions during the development of statistical models. Validations were performed by comparing the estimated values with the observed rainfall derived from the AMeDAS rain gauge network and the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) 3B42 rainfall estimation product. The results demonstrated that the models that considered the combination of total PWV and atmospheric vertical instability were relatively more sensitive to heavy rainfall than were the models that considered no atmospheric environmental conditions. The use of such combined information indicated a reasonable improvement, especially in terms of the correlation between estimated and observed rainfall. Intercomparison results with the TRMM 3B42 confirmed that MTSAT-based rainfall estimations made by considering atmospheric environmental conditions were more accurate for estimating rainfall generated by Cb cloud.
Polarimetric Radar Observations of Biological Scatterers in Hurricanes Irene (2011) and Sandy (2012)
Authors: Van Den Broeke Matthew S.
Published: August 2013

Biological scatterers, consisting of birds and insects, may become trapped near the circulation center of tropical cyclones, particularly if a well-developed eyewall is present. These scatterers may be observed using weather radar, where they may appear to the radar operator as areas of light precipitation. Polarimetric radar characteristics of these scatterers, informed by additional observations of known bioscatter, include a combination of very high differential reflectivity (3–7.9 dB) and very low copolar correlation coefficient (0.3–0.8). Polarimetric radar observations of bioscatter are presented for Hurricane Irene (2011) and Hurricane Sandy (2012). In these storms, the bioscatter signature first appeared at the 0.5° elevation angle at a distance of 100–120 km from the radar. The signature appeared on successively higher tilts as the circulation center neared the radar, and its areal coverage in constant altitude plan position indicator (CAPPI) slices was primarily governed by the distribution of convection in the eye and by the timing of landfall. The highest altitude at which the signature appears may represent the inversion level within certain tropical cyclone eyes. For Hurricane Irene, inland observations of oceanic bird species support biological transport. Knowledge of the bioscatter signature has value to meteorologists monitoring tropical cyclones within the range of a polarimetric radar, possible value for estimating inversion height changes within the eyes of well-structured tropical cyclones, and value to biologists who wish to estimate the magnitude of biological transport in tropical cyclones.
An Updated Climatology of Tropical Cyclone Impacts on the Southwestern United States
Authors: Wood Kimberly M. , Ritchie Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2013

A dataset of 167 eastern North Pacific tropical cyclones (TCs) is investigated for potential impacts in the southwestern United States over the period 1989–2009 and evaluated in the context of a 30-yr climatology. The statistically significant patterns from empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis demonstrate the prevalence of a midlatitude trough pattern when TC-related rainfall occurs in the southwestern United States. Conversely, the presence of a strong subtropical ridge tends to prevent such events from occurring and limits TC-related rainfall to Mexico. These statistically significant patterns correspond well with previous work. The El Niño–Southern Oscillation phenomenon is shown to have some effect on eastern North Pacific TC impacts on the southwestern United States, as shifts in the general circulation can subsequently influence which regions receive rainfall from TCs or their remnants. The Pacific decadal oscillation may have a greater influence during the period of study as evidenced by EOF analysis of sea surface temperature anomalies.
Imagine the Future! A Critical Transreligious Bio-Theology of ‘the 99 Percent’
Authors: Auga Ulrike
Published: August 2013

As reaction to the failures of the globalization process, which is based on a commodification of the whole life new resistance mobilizations occurred. The Occupy Wall Street Movement has underlined that the social consequences of the neoliberal empire call for new resistances, new visions of solidarity, and new ways of representation. It has become clear, that capitalism’s influence on democracy has made that concept insufficient. The sovereign biopower is regulating life and survival via granting access or exclusion from resources. It not only disciplines and normalizes sexualities, bodies and gender but regulates health, security, etc. of everybody. Therefore responsible theology needs to expand Feminist, Gender and Queer critique and my approach is to offer a reaction by developing a critical Bio-Theology using Foucault’s critique of biopower and Castoriadis’ (1994) concept of the radical social imaginary. This paper uses inter- and transdisciplinary methodology bringing together (feminist) ‘beyond liberation theology’ approaches with queer, postcolonial, epistemological intersectionality critique and post-secular debates.
A Sacred Connection: The Essential Encounter between (M)other and Baby
Authors: McKinney Cathryn
Published: August 2013

In this paper I argue that a newborn child and the Mother, defined as any person who takes up the role of (M)other,1 reflect the ontological connectedness of God and humankind. The relationship between the infant and (M)other is experienced by the child as if the two are one, and in this, life is first experienced by the infant as being ‘not alone’. The human interactions that we experience, or do not in early infancy, have such a profound psychological effect on us that we continue to be impacted by them for our whole lives and to this end I assert that the experience of at-one-ness I will write about, fundamentally establishes the experience of the infant in the context of God, self and the other.
Long-term health-related quality of life evaluated more than 20 years after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for thalassemia
Authors: La Nasa Giorgio , Caocci Giovanni , Efficace Fabio , Dessì Carlo , Vacca Adriana , Piras Eugenia , Sanna Marco , Marcias Michela , Littera Roberto , Carcassi Carlo , Lucarelli Guido
Published: August 2013

Key Points

HRQoL and lifestyles of patients transplanted more than 20 years ago for thalassemia are similar to those of the general population. Data on HRQoL in the long term provide both physicians and patients with a more complete picture of the advantages and potential risks of HSCT.
Genetic basis of qualitative and quantitative resistance to powdery mildew in wheat: from consensus regions to candidate genes
Authors: Marone Daniela , Russo Maria A , Laidò Giovanni , De Vita Pasquale , Papa Roberto , Blanco Antonio , Gadaleta Agata , Rubiales Diego , Mastrangelo Anna M
Published: August 2013

Background

Powdery mildew (Blumeria graminisf. sp.tritici) is one of the most damaging diseases of wheat. The objective of this study was to identify the wheat genomic regions that are involved in the control of powdery mildew resistance through a quantitative trait loci (QTL) meta-analysis approach. This meta-analysis allows the use of collected QTL data from different published studies to obtain consensus QTL across different genetic backgrounds, thus providing a better definition of the regions responsible for the trait, and the possibility to obtain molecular markers that will be suitable for marker-assisted selection.

Results

Five QTL for resistance to powdery mildew were identified under field conditions in the durum-wheat segregating population Creso × Pedroso. An integrated map was developed for the projection of resistance genes/ alleles and the QTL from the present study and the literature, and to investigate their distribution in the wheat genome. Molecular markers that correspond to candidate genes for plant responses to pathogens were also projected onto the map, particularly considering NBS-LRR and receptor-like protein kinases. More than 80 independent QTL and 51 resistance genes from 62 different mapping populations were projected onto the consensus map using the Biomercator statistical software. Twenty-four MQTL that comprised 2–6 initial QTL that had widely varying confidence intervals were found on 15 chromosomes. The co-location of the resistance QTL and genes was investigated. Moreover, from analysis of the sequences of DArT markers, 28 DArT clones mapped on wheat chromosomes have been shown to be associated with the NBS-LRR genes and positioned in the same regions as the MQTL for powdery mildew resistance.

Conclusions

The results from the present study provide a detailed analysis of the genetic basis of resistance to powdery mildew in wheat. The study of the Creso × Pedroso durum-wheat population has revealed some QTL that had not been previously identified. Furthermore, the analysis of the co-localization of resistance loci and functional markers provides a large list of candidate genes and opens up a new perspective for the fine mapping and isolation of resistance genes, and for the marker-assisted improvement of resistance in wheat.
Fine mapping of V(D)J recombinase mediated rearrangements in human lymphoid malignancies
Authors: Halper-Stromberg Eitan , Steranka Jared , Giraldo-Castillo Nicolas , Fuller Timothy , Desiderio Stephen , Burns Kathleen H
Published: August 2013

Background

Lymphocytes achieve diversity in antigen recognition in part by rearranging genomic DNA at loci encoding antibodies and cell surface receptors. The process, termed V(D)J recombination, juxtaposes modular coding sequences for antigen binding. Erroneous recombination events causing chromosomal translocations are recognized causes of lymphoid malignancies. Here we show a hybridization based method for sequence enrichment can be used to efficiently and selectively capture genomic DNA adjacent to V(D)J recombination breakpoints for massively parallel sequencing. The approach obviates the need for PCR amplification of recombined sequences.

Results

Using tailored informatics analyses to resolve alignment and assembly issues in these repetitive regions, we were able to detect numerous recombination events across a panel of cancer cell lines and primary lymphoid tumors, and an EBV transformed lymphoblast line. With reassembly, breakpoints could be defined to single base pair resolution. The observed events consist of canonical V(D)J or V-J rearrangements, non-canonical rearrangements, and putatively oncogenic reciprocal chromosome translocations. We validated non-canonical and chromosome translocation junctions by PCR and Sanger sequencing. The translocations involved theMYCandBCL-2loci, and activation of these was consistent with histopathologic features of the respective B-cell tumors. We also show an impressive prevalence of novel erroneous V-V recombination events at sites not incorporated with other downstream coding segments.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate the ability of next generation sequencing to describe human V(D)J recombinase activity and provide a scalable means to chronicle off-target, unexpressed, and non-amplifiable recombinations occurring in the development of lymphoid cancers.
Timing of operation for poor-grade aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Qiao , Ma Lu , Liu Yi , He Min , Sun Hong , Wang Xiang , Fang Yuan , Hui Xu-hui , You Chao
Published: August 2013

Background

Subarachnoid hemorrhage is a common and dangerous disease with an unfavorable prognosis. Patients with poor-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage (Hunt & Hess Grades 4–5) are unconscious on admission. Because of the high mortality and disability rate associated with poor-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage, it is often treated conservatively. Timing of surgery for poor-grade aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage is still controversial, therefore this study aims to identify the optimal time to operate on patients admitted in poor clinical condition.

Methods/design

Ninety-nine patients meeting the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned into three treatment groups. The early surgery group received operation within 3 days after onset of subarachnoid hemorrhage (day of SAH = day 1); the intermediate surgery group received operation from days 4 to 7, and surgery was performed on the late surgery group after day 7. Follow-up was performed 1, 3, and 6 months after aneurysm clipping. Primary indicators of outcome included the Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale and the Modified Rankin Scale, while secondary indicators of outcome were assessed using the Barthel Index and mortality.

Discussion

This is the first prospective, single-center, observer-blinded, randomized controlled trial to elucidate optimal timing for surgery in poor-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage patients. The results of this study will be used to direct decisions of surgical intervention in poor-grade subarachnoid hemorrhage, thus improving clinical outcomes for patients.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR-TRC-12002917
Deltoid muscle shape analysis with magnetic resonance imaging in patients with chronic rotator cuff tears
Authors: Meyer Dominik C , Rahm Stefan , Farshad Mazda , Lajtai Georg , Wieser Karl
Published: August 2013

Background

It seems appropriate to assume, that for a full and strong global shoulder function a normally innervated and active deltoid muscle is indispensable. We set out to analyse the size and shape of the deltoid muscle on MR-arthrographies, and analyse its influence on shoulder function and its adaption (i.e. atrophy) for reduced shoulder function.

Methods

The fatty infiltration (Goutallier stages), atrophy (tangent sign) and selective myotendinous retraction of the rotator cuff, as well as the thickness and the area of seven anatomically defined segments of the deltoid muscle were measured on MR-arthrographies and correlated with shoulder function (i.e. active abduction). Included were 116 patients, suffering of a rotator cuff tear with shoulder mobility ranging from pseudoparalysis to free mobility. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to determine the distribution of the data before either Spearman or Pearson correlation and a multiple regression was applied to reveal the correlations.

Results

Our developed method for measuring deltoid area and thickness showed to be reproducible with excellent interobserver correlations (r = 0.814–0.982).

The analysis of influencing factors on active abduction revealed a weak influence of the amount of SSP tendon (r = −0.25; p < 0.01) and muscle retraction (r = −0.27; p < 0.01) as well as the stage of fatty muscle infiltration (GFDI: r = −0.36; p < 0.01). Unexpectedly however, we were unable to detect a relation of the deltoid muscle shape with the degree of active glenohumeral abduction. Furthermore, long-standing rotator cuff tears did not appear to influence the deltoid shape, i.e. did not lead to muscle atrophy.

Conclusions

Our data support that in chronic rotator cuff tears, there seems to be no disadvantage to exhausting conservative treatment and to delay implantation of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, as the shape of deltoid muscle seems only to be influenced by natural aging, but to be independent of reduced shoulder motion.
Automated serial extraction of DNA and RNA from biobanked tissue specimens
Authors: Mathot Lucy , Wallin Monica , Sjöblom Tobias
Published: August 2013

Background

With increasing biobanking of biological samples, methods for large scale extraction of nucleic acids are in demand. The lack of such techniques designed for extraction from tissues results in a bottleneck in downstream genetic analyses, particularly in the field of cancer research. We have developed an automated procedure for tissue homogenization and extraction of DNA and RNA into separate fractions from the same frozen tissue specimen. A purpose developed magnetic bead based technology to serially extract both DNA and RNA from tissues was automated on a Tecan Freedom Evo robotic workstation.

Results

864 fresh-frozen human normal and tumor tissue samples from breast and colon were serially extracted in batches of 96 samples. Yields and quality of DNA and RNA were determined. The DNA was evaluated in several downstream analyses, and the stability of RNA was determined after 9 months of storage. The extracted DNA performed consistently well in processes including PCR-based STR analysis, HaloPlex selection and deep sequencing on an Illumina platform, and gene copy number analysis using microarrays. The RNA has performed well in RT-PCR analyses and maintains integrity upon storage.

Conclusions

The technology described here enables the processing of many tissue samples simultaneously with a high quality product and a time and cost reduction for the user. This reduces the sample preparation bottleneck in cancer research. The open automation format also enables integration with upstream and downstream devices for automated sample quantitation or storage.
Gene-environment and protein-degradation signatures characterize genomic and phenotypic diversity in wild Caenorhabditis eleganspopulations
Authors: Volkers Rita JM , Snoek L Basten , Hubar Caspara J van Hellenberg , Coopman Renata , Chen Wei , Yang Wentao , Sterken Mark G , Schulenburg Hinrich , Braeckman Bart P , Kammenga Jan E
Published: August 2013

Background

Analyzing and understanding the relationship between genotypes and phenotypes is at the heart of genetics. Research on the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has been instrumental for unraveling genotype-phenotype relations, and has important implications for understanding the biology of mammals, but almost all studies, including forward and reverse genetic screens, are limited by investigations in only one canonical genotype. This hampers the detection and functional analysis of allelic variants, which play a key role in controlling many complex traits. It is therefore essential to explore the full potential of the natural genetic variation and evolutionary context of the genotype-phenotype map in wild C. elegans populations.

Results

We used multiple wild C. elegans populations freshly isolated from local sites to investigate gene sequence polymorphisms and a multitude of phenotypes including the transcriptome, fitness, and behavioral traits. The genotype, transcriptome, and a number of fitness traits showed a direct link with the original site of the strains. The separation between the isolation sites was prevalent on all chromosomes, but chromosome V was the largest contributor to this variation. These results were supported by a differential food preference of the wild isolates for naturally co-existing bacterial species. Comparing polymorphic genes between the populations with a set of genes extracted from 19 different studies on gene expression in C. elegans exposed to biotic and abiotic factors, such as bacteria, osmotic pressure, and temperature, revealed a significant enrichment for genes involved in gene-environment interactions and protein degradation.

Conclusions

We found that wild C. elegans populations are characterized by gene-environment signatures, and we have unlocked a wealth of genotype-phenotype relations for the first time. Studying natural isolates provides a treasure trove of evidence compared with that unearthed by the current research in C. elegans, which covers only a diminutive part of the myriad of genotype-phenotype relations that are present in the wild.
Influenza B virus has global ordered RNA structure in (+) and (−) strands but relatively less stable predicted RNA folding free energy than allowed by the encoded protein sequence
Authors: Priore Salvatore F , Moss Walter N , Turner Douglas H
Published: August 2013

Background

Influenza A virus contributes to seasonal epidemics and pandemics and contains Global Ordered RNA structure (GORS) in the nucleoprotein (NP), non-structural (NS), PB2, and M segments. A related virus, influenza B, is also a major annual public health threat, but unlike influenza A is very selective to human hosts. This study extends the search for GORS to influenza B.

Findings

A survey of all available influenza B sequences reveals GORS in the (+) and (−)RNAs of the NP, NS, PB2, and PB1 gene segments. The results are similar to influenza A, except GORS is observed for the M1 segment of influenza A but not for PB1. In general, the folding free energies of human-specific influenza B RNA segments are less stable than allowable by the encoded amino acid sequence. This is consistent with findings in influenza A, where human-specific influenza RNA folds are less stable than avian and swine strains.

Conclusions

These results reveal fundamental molecular similarities and differences between Influenza A and B and suggest a rational basis for choosing segments to target with therapeutics and for viral attenuation for live vaccines by altering RNA folding stability.
Comparing the genomes of Helicobacter pylori clinical strain UM032 and Mice-adapted derivatives
Authors: Khosravi Yalda , Rehvathy Vellaya , Wee Wei Yee , Wang Susana , Baybayan Primo , Singh Siddarth , Ashby Meredith , Ong Junxian , Amoyo Arlaine Anne , Seow Shih Wee , Choo Siew Woh , Perkins Tim , Chua Eng Guan , Tay Alfred , Marshall Barry James , Loke Mun Fai , Goh Khean Lee , Pettersson Sven , Vadivelu Jamuna
Published: August 2013

Background

Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacterium that persistently infects the human stomach inducing chronic inflammation. The exact mechanisms of pathogenesis are still not completely understood. Although not a natural host for H. pylori, mouse infection models play an important role in establishing the immunology and pathogenicity of H. pylori. In this study, for the first time, the genome sequences of clinical H. pylori strain UM032 and mice-adapted derivatives, 298 and 299, were sequenced using the PacBio Single Molecule, Real-Time (SMRT) technology.

Result

Here, we described the single contig which was achieved for UM032 (1,599,441 bp), 298 (1,604,216 bp) and 299 (1,601,149 bp). Preliminary analysis suggested that methylation of H. pylori genome through its restriction modification system may be determinative of its host specificity and adaptation.

Conclusion

Availability of these genomic sequences will aid in enhancing our current level of understanding the host specificity of H. pylori.
A special successive approximations method for solving boundary value problems including ordinary differential equations
Authors: Jahanshahi Mohammad , Nazari Davoud , Aliev Nihan
Published: August 2013

This paper deals with the solutions of boundary value problems based on the converting differential equation with boundary conditions to a mixed Voletrra and Fredholm integral equation; then, we will use the special case of successive approximations method for solving obtained equation. Convergence analysis and error estimate is discussed; also, a numerical example is presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed technique.