bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semantic Features of ‘Stepped' versus ‘Continuous' Contours in German Intonation
Authors: Dombrowski Ernst
Published: February 2014

This study analyses the meaning spaces of German pitch contours using two modes of melodic movement: continuous or in steps of sustained pitch. Both the continuous and stepped movements are represented by a set of five basic patterns, the latter being derived from the former. Thirty-six German native speakers judged the pattern sets on a 12-scale semantic differential. The semantic profiles confirm that stepped contours can be conceived of as stylized intonation, in a formal as well as in a functional sense. On the one hand, continuous (non-stylized) and stepped (stylized) contours are assigned different overall meanings (especially on the scales astonished - commonplace and interested - not interested). On the other hand, listeners organize the two contour sets in a similar fashion, which speaks in favour of parallel pattern inventories of continuous and stepped movement, respectively. However, the meaning space of the stylized patterns is affected by formal restrictions, for instance in the step transformation of continuous rises.
Relationships between Splenorenal Shunt/Portal Vein Diameter Ratio and Systemic Hemodynamics in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Chikamori Fumio , Okamoto Hiroshi , Kuniyoshi Nobutoshi
Published: February 2014

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between the splenorenal shunt (SRS)/portal vein (PV) diameter ratio (SRS/PV ratio) and systemic hemodynamics in patients with liver cirrhosis. Patients and Methods: Thirty-seven patients with SRS due to liver cirrhosis were included in this study. SRS was evaluated in the retropancreatic space on contrast-enhanced CT and the diameter was measured at the maximum point. Systemic hemodynamics was studied using a thermodilution catheter. Results: The SRS/PV ratio showed a significant correlation with the cardiac index (p < 0.01), and showed an inverse correlation with the systemic vascular resistance index and the arteriovenous oxygen content difference [C(a-v)O2] (p < 0.01). The Child-Pugh score showed a correlation with the SRS/PV ratio (p < 0.01). The SRS/PV ratio was 0.89 ± 0.52, 1.02 ± 0.51, and 1.74 ± 0.50 in the Child-Pugh A, B, and C classes, respectively. The SRS/PV ratio in the Child-Pugh C class was significantly higher than those in classes A and B (p < 0.01). The plasma ammonia level was 75.3 ± 23.2 in the group with an SRS/PV ratio <1.0 (n = 19) versus 102.6 ± 34.8 in the group with an SRS/PV ratio ≥1.0 (n = 18), and the ratio of encephalopathy was 5% (1/19) in the group with an SRS/PV ratio <1.0 (n = 19) versus 50% (9/18) in the group with an SRS/PV ratio ≥1.0 (n = 18), respectively. The differences between the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.01). Conclusions: We conclude that the increase in the SRS/PV ratio is accompanied by deteriorated liver function, hyperdynamic status, and narrowed C(a-v)O2.
Risk of Subsequent Dementia in Patients with Hypertensive Encephalopathy: A Nationwide Population-Based Study in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Wei-Shih , Tseng Chun-Hung , Lin Cheng-Li , Lin Chi-Yu , Sung Fung-Chang , Kao Chia-Hung
Published: February 2014

Background/Aims: We investigated the association of hypertensive encephalopathy (HE) with subsequent dementia. Methods: Using universal insurance claims data, we identified a study cohort of 5,504 participants with HE newly diagnosed between 1997 and 2010 and a comparison cohort of 22,016 healthy participants. Incidence and risks of dementia were estimated for both cohorts until the end of 2010. Results: The dementia incidence was 1.45-fold [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.27-1.66] higher in the study cohort than in the comparison cohort, with an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 1.38 (95% CI = 1.19-1.59) for the study cohort. The risk was higher for males than for females and elderly patients. With an incidence of 13.4 per 1,000 person-years, the HR of dementia increased to 2.09 (95% CI = 1.18-3.71) for the HE patients with the comorbidities of head injury and diabetes compared to those without HE and comorbidities. The risk of developing dementia declined with the follow-up time. Conclusion: Hypertensive patients with HE displayed a significantly higher risk for dementia than those without HE. The risk increased further in those with the comorbidities of head injury and diabetes. Physicians should be aware of the link between HE and dementia when assessing patients with HE.
Signal Regulatory Protein Alpha Is Present in Several Neutrophil Granule Populations and Is Rapidly Mobilized to the Cell Surface to Negatively Fine-Tune Neutrophil Accumulation in Inflammation
Authors: Stenberg Åsa , Karlsson Anna , Feuk-Lagerstedt Elisabeth , Christenson Karin , Bylund Johan , Oldenborg Anna , Vesterlund Liselotte , Matozaki Takashi , Sehlin Janove , Oldenborg Per-Arne
Published: February 2014

Signal regulatory protein alpha (SIRPα) is a cell surface glycoprotein with inhibitory functions, which may regulate neutrophil transmigration. SIRPα is mobilized to the neutrophil surface from specific granules, gelatinase granules, and secretory vesicles following inflammatory activation in vitro and in vivo. The lack of SIRPα signaling and the ability to upregulate SIRPα to the cell surface promote neutrophil accumulation during inflammation in vivo.
Delayed, Long-Term Administration of the Caspase Inhibitor Q-VD-OPh Reduced Brain Injury Induced by Neonatal Hypoxia-Ischemia
Authors: Han Wei , Sun Yanyan , Wang Xiaoyang , Zhu Changlian , Blomgren Klas
Published: February 2014

Apoptosis contributes greatly to the morphological and biochemical features of cell death after neonatal cerebral hypoxia-ischemia (HI), making this mode of cell death a promising therapeutic target. We previously showed that 10 mg/kg of the caspase inhibitor Q-VD-OPh at the onset of and immediately after HI on postnatal day 9 reduced brain infarct volume. In this study, delayed administration of Q-VD-OPh, 12 and 36 h after HI, decreased HI-induced caspase-3 activity (DEVD cleavage) by 23% and diminished the levels of the proinflammatory chemokines CCL2 (MCP-1) and CCL3 (MIP-1α) by 29.3 and 29.1%, respectively, but not the levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4 and IL-10. Long-term administration of Q-VD-OPh initiated at 12 h after HI, and continued at 24-hour intervals for 2 weeks, reduced total brain tissue loss by 31.3% from 41.5 ± 3.1 mm3 in the vehicle group to 28.5 ± 3.0 mm3 in the Q-VD-OPh group when evaluated 16 weeks after HI (p = 0.004). Q-VD-OPh treatment also ameliorated the loss of sensorimotor function, as evaluated by a cylinder rearing test (Q-VD-OPh: 30.8 ± 4.3% vs. vehicle: 59.7 ± 6.3% in nonimpaired forepaw preference) 3 weeks after HI, and reduced HI-induced hyperactivity, as measured in an open field test (Q-VD-OPh: 4,062 ± 198 cm vs. vehicle: 4,792 ± 205 cm in distance moved) 7 weeks after the insult. However, the functional protection was no longer observed when analyzed again at later time points. The mechanisms underlying the discrepancy between sustained morphological protection and transient functional protection remain to be elucidated.
Characterization of LdrA (Long Direct Repeat A) Protein of Escherichia coli
Authors: Yamaguchi Yoshihiro , Tokunaga Narumi , Inouye Masayori , Phadtare Sangita
Published: February 2014

Reminiscent of apoptotic genes in higher systems, almost all bacteria contain ‘suicide' genes, which encode toxins. Toxins inhibit cell growth and may cause cell death. These are coexpressed with their cognate antitoxins from a toxin-antitoxin (TA) operon in normally growing cells. The cellular targets of toxins are diverse. The study of the TA system is important as in addition to their involvement in the normal bacterial physiology, TA systems may also play a role in bacterial pathogenicity. The long direct repeat (Ldr) family of proteins belongs to one such TA system. Here we report characterization of LdrA, the prototypical protein of the Ldr family, and show that it is highly toxic for cell growth. The data suggests that LdrA may exert toxicity by inhibiting ATP synthesis, possibly due to its localization in the cell membrane. This inhibition of energy production leads to the inhibition of biosynthetic reactions in the cell such as DNA replication, transcription and translation, and eventually cell growth.
Adoptive Transfer of Bone Marrow Dendritic Cells Failed to Localize in the Renal Cortex and to Improve Renal Injury in Adriamycin Nephropathy
Authors: Zheng Dong , Wen Lei , Li Changbin , Peng Ai , Cao Qi , Wang Yiping , Harris David
Published: February 2014

Background and Aims: Murine bone marrow (BM) dendritic cells (DCs) can be modulated to be tolerogenic by cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, and may play a regulatory role and sustain immune hemostasis in cognate kidney disease. However, it is unknown whether BM-DCs can be used to protect against renal injury in murine Adriamycin nephropathy (AN). Methods: In this study, by adoptive in vivo transfer of BM-DCs, including immature DCs, mature DCs (lipopolysaccharide-stimulated DCs) and BM regulatory DCs (IL-10/TGF-β-modified DCs, DCregs), we addressed the potential benefits of BM-DCs in chronic kidney disease. Results: We found that after adoptive transfer of DCregs, renal injury, including glomerulosclerosis, interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, was not changed compared to AN controls. Correspondingly, renal functions measured by serum creatinine, 12-hour urine protein and creatinine clearance were also not improved by transfusion with DCregs compared to AN controls. Conclusion: This study showed that the adoptive transfer of BM-DCs was unable to improve renal injury in an AN model, and this failure related to their inability to access the kidney.
The Impact of Long-Term Growth Hormone Treatment on Metabolic Parameters in Japanese Patients with Short Stature Born Small for Gestational Age
Authors: Kappelgaard Anne-Marie , Kiyomi Fumiaki , Horikawa Reiko , Yokoya Susumu , Tanaka Toshiaki
Published: February 2014

Background/Aims: An examination of the effects of up to 260 weeks of growth hormone (GH) therapy on metabolic parameters in Japanese children born small for gestational age (SGA). Methods: Data were analysed from a 156-week extension of a 104-week multicentre, randomised, double-blind, parallel-group trial. Sixty-five children born SGA (age 3-<8 years) received 33 μg/kg/day (n = 31, 64.5% male) or 67 μg/kg/day (n = 34, 58.8% male) GH for 260 weeks. Changes in metabolic parameters - glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol - were recorded. Alterations in weight, body mass index standard deviation score (BMI SDS) and vital signs were also evaluated. Results: Over 260 weeks of GH treatment, a positive correlation between Δheight SDS and Δinsulin-like growth factor-I SDS was observed. Insulin and glucose levels were generally unaffected. Favourable changes in lipid profiles were recorded, which were maintained for the study duration. No adverse alterations in weight, BMI SDS or vital signs were noted. Conclusion: Long-term, continuous GH treatment in children born SGA appears to be efficacious, associated with potential benefits for several metabolic parameters and associated with no long-term safety concerns.
Two Japanese Cases of Birt-Hogg-Dubé Syndrome with Pulmonary Cysts, Fibrofolliculomas, and Renal Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Murakami Yukako , Wataya-Kaneda Mari , Tanaka Mari , Takahashi Aya , Tsujimura Akira , Inoue Koji , Nonomura Norio , Katayama Ichiro
Published: February 2014

Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHD) is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disease caused by a germline mutation in the folliculin gene mapped in the region of chromosome 17p11.2. BHD predisposes the patient to cutaneous fibrofolliculomas (FFs), pulmonary cysts (PCs), and renal cell carcinoma (RC). Here, we present two cases of BHD in Japanese patients. One patient was a 37-year-old female, and the other a 35-year-old male. Each of the patients was affected by all three symptoms of BHD. Both patients had unremarkable FFs, asymptomatic PCs, and asymptomatic RC. The presence of RC was revealed by abdominal ultrasonic examination. We also summarized the data from 62 Asian cases of BHD from the available literature and found that their FFs were unremarkable. In addition, the proportion of BHD patients with FF is smaller for Asian patients than it is for Caucasian patients. We also found that it is rare for BHD patients in Asia to show all three symptoms of BHD. Careful inspection of the skin as well as skin biopsies are important for the early detection of BHD cases in Asia.
Cytologic Diagnosis of Metastatic Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma to the Thyroid Gland by Fine-Needle Aspiration
Authors: Walavalkar Vighnesh , Fischer Andrew H. , Owens Christopher L.
Published: February 2014

Background: Metastases to the thyroid gland, although rare, are important entities to consider when evaluating malignant cells on a thyroid fine-needle aspiration (TFNA) specimen. Cellular TFNA specimens with small round blue cells should prompt a broad differential: florid lymphocytic thyroiditis, lymphoma, metastases, as well as primary thyroid malignancies with similar morphologies such as poorly differentiated (insular) and medullary carcinomas. Age, clinical presentation and prior history must be considered in every case. Case Report: We report, to the best of our knowledge, the first case of metastatic alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) to the thyroid gland, definitively diagnosed by TFNA. A 21-year-old female patient presented with a large mass in the right lobe of the thyroid. Her past history was significant for ARMS diagnosed 24 months earlier, currently in remission after successfully completing 40 weeks of chemoradiation therapy. The diagnosis of metastatic ARMS in the TFNA prompted a more thorough examination revealing previously unknown additional sites of metastases. Conclusion: Metastases to the thyroid gland are uncommon but should be considered in cases where atypical morphology is encountered. Small round blue cell tumors can metastasize to the thyroid gland, and clinical presentation, morphology, immunohistochemistry and molecular studies are helpful in differentiating between them.
Analysis of Cell-Free DNA in Maternal Blood in Screening for Aneuploidies: Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gil M.M. , Akolekar R. , Quezada M.S. , Bregant B. , Nicolaides K.H.
Published: February 2014

Objective: To review clinical validation or implementation studies of maternal blood cell-free (cf) DNA analysis in screening for aneuploidies and to explore the potential use of this method in clinical practice. Methods: Searches of PubMed and MEDLINE were performed to identify all peer-reviewed articles on cfDNA testing in screening for aneuploidies between 2011, when the first such study was published, and 20 December 2013. Results: Weighted pooled detection rates (DR) and false-positive rates (FPR) in singleton pregnancies were 99.0% (95% CI 98.2-99.6) and 0.08% (95% CI 0.03-0.14), respectively, for trisomy 21; 96.8% (95% CI 94.5-98.4) and 0.15% (95% CI 0.08-0.25) for trisomy 18; 92.1% (95% CI 85.9-96.7) and 0.20% (95% CI 0.04-0.46) for trisomy 13; 88.6% (95% CI 83.0-93.1) and 0.12% (95% CI 0.05-0.24) for monosomy X, and 93.8% (95% CI 85.9-98.7) and 0.12% (95% CI 0.02-0.28) for sex chromosome aneuploidies other than monosomy X. For twin pregnancies, the DR was 94.4% (95% 74.2-99.0) and the FPR was 0% (95% CI 0.00-1.84) for trisomy 21. Conclusion: An analysis of cfDNA in maternal blood provides effective screening for trisomies.
Efficacy and Safety of Intravenous Iron Therapy for Functional Iron Deficiency Anemia in Hemodialysis Patients: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Susantitaphong Paweena , Alqahtani Fahad , Jaber Bertrand L.
Published: February 2014

Background: Studies on benefits of intravenous iron therapy among hemodialysis patients with functional iron deficiency anemia have shown conflicting results. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of intravenous iron in this subset of patients. Methods: We searched MEDLINE (through December 2012), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and ClinicalTrials.gov for single-arm studies and randomized controlled trials (RCT) that examined the effect of intravenous iron for functional iron deficiency anemia in hemodialysis patients on anemia parameters and markers of oxidative stress and inflammation. Studies of absolute iron deficiency were excluded. Random-effect model meta-analyses were used to compute changes in outcomes of interest. Results: We identified 34 studies (2,658 patients), representing 24 single-arm studies, and 10 parallel-arm RCT. In the analyses of the study arms, intravenous iron therapy resulted in a significant increase in hemoglobin, serum ferritin, transferrin saturation rate, serum iron, reticulocyte hemoglobin content as well as a significant decrease in the percentage of hypochromic erythrocytes and erythropoietin dose. There were significant increases in plasma malonyldialdehyde level and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, and a decrease in neutrophil respiratory burst. The analyses of the RCT revealed less robust net changes in these parameters, and there was no increased risk of adverse events including infections, cardiac events and mortality. Conclusions: Intravenous iron therapy for functional iron deficiency anemia in hemodialysis patients improves anemia parameters but exerts some effects on markers of oxidative stress that are of unclear clinical significance. The long-term safety and efficacy of this treatment strategy requires further study.
Replacing the Combined Test by Cell-Free DNA Testing in Screening for Trisomies 21, 18 and 13: Impact on the Diagnosis of Other Chromosomal Abnormalities
Authors: Syngelaki Argyro , Pergament Eugene , Homfray Tessa , Akolekar Ranjit , Nicolaides Kypros H.
Published: February 2014

Objective: To estimate the proportion of other chromosomal abnormalities that could be missed if combined testing was replaced by cell-free (cf) DNA testing as the method of screening for trisomies 21, 18 and 13. Methods: The prevalence of trisomies 21, 18 or 13, sex chromosome aneuploidies, triploidy and other chromosomal abnormalities was examined in pregnancies undergoing first-trimester combined screening and chorionic villus sampling (CVS). Results: In 1,831 clinically significant chromosomal abnormalities in pregnancies with combined risk for trisomies 21, 18 and 13 ≥1:100, the contribution of trisomies 21, 18 or 13, sex chromosome aneuploidies, triploidy and other chromosomal abnormalities at high risk of adverse outcome was 82.9, 8.2, 3.9 and 5.0%, respectively. Combined screening followed by CVS for risk ≥1:10 and cfDNA testing for risk 1:11-1:2,500 could detect 97% of trisomy 21 and 98% of trisomies 18 and 13. Additionally, 86% of monosomy X, half of 47,XXY, 47,XYY or 47,XXX, half of other chromosomal abnormalities and one third of triploidies, which are currently detected by combined screening and CVS for risk ≥1:100, could be detected. Conclusions: Screening by cfDNA testing, contingent on results of combined testing, improves detection of trisomies, but misses a few of the other chromosomal abnormalities detected by screening with the combined test.
German National Consensus Recommendations on Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy by the ‘Healthy Start - Young Family Network'
Authors: Koletzko B. , Bauer C.P. , Bung P. , Cremer M. , Flothkötter M. , Hellmers C. , Kersting M. , Krawinkel M. , Przyrembel H. , Rasenack R. , Schäfer T. , Vetter K. , Wahn U. , Weissenborn A. , Wöckel A.
Published: February 2014

Diet and physical activity before and during pregnancy affect short- and long-term health of mother and child. The energy needs at the end of pregnancy increase only by about 10% compared to nonpregnant women. An excessive energy intake is undesirable since maternal overweight and excessive weight gain can increase the risks for a high birth weight and later child overweight and diabetes. Maternal weight at the beginning of pregnancy is especially important for pregnancy outcome and child health. Women should strive to achieve normal weight already before pregnancy. Regular physical activity can contribute to a healthy weight and to the health of pregnant women. The need for certain nutrients increases more than energy requirements. Before and during pregnancy, foods with a high content of essential nutrients should be preferentially selected. Supplements should include folic acid and iodine, iron (in case of suboptimal iron stores), the ω-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (in case of infrequent consumption of ocean fish) and vitamin D (in case of decreased sun exposure and decreased endogenous vitamin D synthesis). Pregnant women should not smoke and not stay in rooms where others smoke or have smoked before (passive smoking). Alcohol consumption should be avoided, since alcohol can harm unborn children.
Altered MicroRNA Expression of Nasal Mucosa in Long-Term Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Suojalehto Hille , Lindström Irmeli , Majuri Marja-Leena , Mitts Camilla , Karjalainen Jouko , Wolff Henrik , Alenius Harri
Published: February 2014

Background: Asthma and allergic rhinitis (AR) commonly coexist and can be taken as manifestations of one syndrome. Evidence exists that microRNAs (miRNAs) are important in controlling inflammatory processes and they are considered promising biomarkers. However, little is known about the differences in miRNA expression in patients with chronic allergic airway disease. This study evaluated the inflammatory and miRNA profiles of the nasal mucosa of patients with long-term asthma with and without AR. Methods: We analyzed inflammatory cells, cytokines, and miRNAs in nasal biopsies and measured exhaled and nasal nitric oxide levels during the nonpollen season in 117 middle-aged men who had suffered mainly from allergic asthma for approximately 20 years and also in 33 healthy controls. Results: The differences in the number of nasal eosinophils and cytokine expression levels were modest in nasal biopsies taken from asthmatics. Downregulation of miR-18a, miR-126, let-7e, miR-155, and miR-224 and upregulation of miR-498, miR-187, miR-874, miR-143, and miR-886-3p were observed in asthmatic patients in comparison to controls. The differences in miRNA expression were mainly similar in asthmatics with and without AR. With regard to asthma severity, a trend of increased miRNA expression in persistent asthma was seen, whereas the downregulation of certain miRNAs was most distinct in nonpersistent-asthma patients. Conclusions: Differences in miRNA expression in the nasal mucosa of subjects with long-term asthma and AR can be seen also when no markers of Th2-type inflammation are detected. Asthma severity had only a minor impact on miRNA expression.
Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis Causing a Prolonged Depressive Disorder Evolving to Inflammatory Brain Disease
Authors: Mariotto Sara , Tamburin Stefano , Salviati Alessandro , Ferrari Sergio , Zoccarato Marco , Giometto Bruno , Bertolasi Laura , Alessandrini Franco , Benedetti Maria Donata , Monaco Salvatore
Published: February 2014

Background: Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is a rapidly evolving condition that combines psychiatric and neurologic manifestations. Much remains unclear about its clinical onset and subsequent course. Although successful treatment depends on diagnosing the disorder early and therefore minimizing long-term complications, this is a difficult task owing to the atypical onset of this condition and the prolonged clinical course that has been observed in some patients. This report, illustrating a patient with slowly progressing psychiatric manifestations, unusual imaging and electrophysiological features, extends the information on varied clinical phenotypes. Case Report: A 32-year-old woman suffered from an isolated depressive disorder for 4 months before undergoing psychiatric evaluation. During the following 5 months, she manifested hypersexuality, dysarthria, imbalance, dyskinesias and decreased word output. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed multifocal hyperintense T2/FLAIR lesions, a few contrast-enhanced, involving the corona radiata, the periventricular white matter, the deep gray nuclei, the optic nerves and the brainstem. MRI spectroscopy disclosed confluent bilateral demyelination and focal optic nerve involvement suggesting widespread encephalitis. Visual evoked potential studies indicated a demyelinating disorder. Serological screening and total body positron-emission tomography yielded negative findings for malignancies. Cerebrospinal fluid examination disclosed IgG oligoclonal bands and anti-NMDAR antibodies. Corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulin provided only slight improvement, whereas switching to cyclophosphamide markedly improved her neurological status. Conclusion: In patients with a prolonged clinical course, including psychiatric and neurological symptoms, the differential diagnosis should be anti-NMDAR encephalitis. This report expands the known disease phenotypes in this emerging condition.
A Case of Acute Generalised Exanthematous Pustulosis after Unprotected Sexual Intercourse on Holidays in Bali
Authors: Blake Tristan , Scuderi Salvatore
Published: February 2014

We present the case of a 43-year-old man with a clinical diagnosis of acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis in the setting of a recent 9-day holiday to Bali, Indonesia, to visit a female partner whom he had visited five times this year for unprotected sexual intercourse and from whom he had contracted a sexually transmitted infection. He also reports having taken some Indonesian cold and flu medications and ibuprofen.
Combination of Nasolabial V-Y Advancement Flap and Glabellar Subcutaneous Pedicled Flap for Reconstruction of Medial Canthal Defect
Authors: Matsuda Hiromichi , Takahashi Yasuhiro , Ichinose Akihiro , Miyazaki Hidetaka , Kakizaki Hirohiko
Published: February 2014

A 77-year-old woman presented with a 1-year history of a right medial canthal tumor, which was histopathologically diagnosed as a basal cell carcinoma. After removal of the tumor with a 4-mm safety margin, the defect occupied the areas superior and inferior to the medial canthal tendon. We first reconstructed the lower part of the defect using a nasolabial V-Y advancement flap to make an elliptic defect in the upper part. We then created a glabellar subcutaneous pedicled flap to match the residual upper elliptic defect with the major axis set along a relaxed skin tension line. The pedicled glabellar flap was passed through a subcutaneous tunnel to the upper residual defect. At 6 months postoperatively, the patient showed no tumor recurrence and a good cosmetic outcome.
Different Prognostic Value of Functional Right Ventricular Parameters in Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy/Dysplasia
Authors: Saguner Ardan M. , Vecchiati Alessandra , Baldinger Samuel H. , Rüeger Sina , Medeiros-Domingo Argelia , Mueller-Burri Andreas S. , Haegeli Laurent M. , Biaggi Patric , Manka Robert , Lüscher Thomas F. , Fontaine Guy , Delacrétaz Etienne , Jenni Rolf , Held Leonhard , Brunckhorst Corinna , Duru Firat , Tanner Felix C.
Published: February 2014

Background—

The value of standard 2-dimensional transthoracic echocardiographic parameters for risk stratification in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia (ARVC/D) is controversial.

Methods and Results—

We investigated the impact of RV fractional area change (FAC) and tricuspid annulus plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) for the prediction of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) defined as the occurrence of cardiac death, heart transplantation, survived sudden cardiac death, ventricular fibrillation, sustained ventricular tachycardia, or arrhythmogenic syncope. Among 70 patients who fulfilled the 2010 ARVC/D Revised Task Force Criteria and underwent baseline transthoracic echocardiography, 37 (53%) patients experienced MACE during a median follow-up period of 5.3 (interquartile range, 1.8–9.8) years. Average values for FAC, TAPSE, and TAPSE indexed to body surface area (BSA) decreased over time (
P
=0.03 for FAC,
P
=0.03 for TAPSE, and
P
=0.01 for TAPSE/BSA, each versus baseline). In contrast, median RV end-diastolic area increased (
P
=0.001 versus baseline). Based on the results of Kaplan–Meier estimates, the time between baseline transthoracic echocardiography and experiencing MACE was significantly shorter for patients with FAC <23% (
P
<0.001), TAPSE <17 mm (
P
=0.02), or right atrial short axis/BSA ≥25 mm/m
2
(
P
=0.04) at baseline. A reduced FAC constituted the strongest predictor of MACE (hazard ratio, 1.08 per 1% decrease; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–1.12;
P
<0.001) on bivariable analysis.

Conclusions—

This long-term observational study indicates that TAPSE and dilation of right-sided cardiac chambers are associated with an increased risk for MACE in patients with ARVC/D with advanced disease and a high risk for adverse events. However, FAC is the strongest echocardiographic predictor of adverse outcome in these patients. Our data advocate a role for transthoracic echocardiography in risk stratification in patients with ARVC/D, although our results may not be generalizable to lower-risk ARVC/D cohorts.
Hypoxic Response Contributes to Altered Gene Expression and Precapillary Pulmonary Hypertension in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhang Wei , Ma Shwu-Fan , Desai Ankit A. , Saraf Santosh , Miasniakova Galina , Sergueeva Adelina , Ammosova Tatiana , Xu Min , Nekhai Sergei , Abbasi Taimur , Casanova Nancy G. , Steinberg Martin H. , Baldwin Clinton T. , Sebastiani Paola , Prchal Josef T. , Kittles Rick , Garcia Joe G. N. , Machado Roberto F. , Gordeuk Victor R.
Published: February 2014

Background—

We postulated that the hypoxic response in sickle cell disease (SCD) contributes to altered gene expression and pulmonary hypertension, a complication associated with early mortality.

Methods and Results—

To identify genes regulated by the hypoxic response and not other effects of chronic anemia, we compared expression variation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 13 subjects with SCD with hemoglobin SS genotype and 15 subjects with Chuvash polycythemia (
VHL

R200W

homozygotes with constitutive upregulation of hypoxia-inducible factors in the absence of anemia or hypoxia). At a 5% false discovery rate, 1040 genes exhibited >1.15-fold change in both conditions; 297 were upregulated and 743 downregulated including
MAPK8
encoding a mitogen-activated protein kinase important for apoptosis, T-cell differentiation, and inflammatory responses. Association mapping with a focus on local regulatory polymorphisms in 61 patients with SCD identified expression quantitative trait loci for 103 of these hypoxia response genes. In a University of Illinois SCD cohort, the A allele of a
MAPK8
expression quantitative trait locus, rs10857560, was associated with precapillary pulmonary hypertension defined as mean pulmonary artery pressure ≥25 mm Hg and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ≤15 mm Hg at right heart catheterization (allele frequency, 0.66; odds ratio, 13.8; n=238). This association was confirmed in an independent Walk–Treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension and Sickle Cell Disease With Sildenafil Therapy cohort (allele frequency, 0.65; odds ratio, 11.3; n=519). The homozygous AA genotype of rs10857560 was associated with decreased
MAPK8
expression and present in all 14 of the identified precapillary pulmonary hypertension cases among the combined 757 patients.

Conclusions—

Our study demonstrates a prominent hypoxic transcription component in SCD and a
MAPK8
expression quantitative trait locus associated with precapillary pulmonary hypertension.
Substance P Increases Sympathetic Activity During Combined Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme and Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibition
Authors: Devin Jessica K. , Pretorius Mias , Nian Hui , Yu Chang , Billings Frederic T. , Brown Nancy J.
Published: February 2014

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors prevent the degradation of incretin hormones and reduce postprandial hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 degrades other peptides with a penultimate proline or alanine, including bradykinin and substance P, which are also substrates of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). During ACE inhibition, substance P is inactivated primarily by dipeptidyl peptidase-4, whereas bradykinin is first inactivated by aminopeptidase P. This study tested the hypothesis that dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibition potentiates vasodilator and fibrinolytic responses to substance P when ACE is inhibited. Twelve healthy subjects participated in this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled crossover study. On each study day, subjects received sitagliptin 200 mg by mouth or placebo. Substance P and bradykinin were infused via brachial artery before and during intra-arterial enalaprilat. Sitagliptin and enalaprilat each reduced forearm vascular resistance and increased forearm blood flow without affecting mean arterial pressure, but there was no interactive effect of the inhibitors. Enalaprilat increased bradykinin-stimulated vasodilation and tissue plasminogen activator release; sitagliptin did not affect these responses to bradykinin. The vasodilator response to substance P was unaffected by sitagliptin and enalaprilat; however, substance P increased heart rate and vascular release of norepinephrine during combined ACE and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibition. In women, sitagliptin diminished tissue plasminogen activator release in response to substance P both alone and during enalaprilat. Substance P increases sympathetic activity during combined ACE and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibition.

Clinical Trial Registration:—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01413542.
Differentiated Baroreflex Modulation of Sympathetic Nerve Activity During Deep Brain Stimulation in Humans
Authors: Sverrisdóttir Yrsa B. , Green Alexander L. , Aziz Tipu Z. , Bahuri Nor Faizal A. , Hyam Jonathan , Basnayake Shanika D. , Paterson David J.
Published: February 2014

Targeted electric deep brain stimulation in midbrain nuclei in humans alters cardiovascular parameters, presumably by modulating autonomic and baroreflex function. Baroreflex modulation of sympathetic outflow is crucial for cardiovascular regulation and is hypothesized to occur at 2 distinct brain locations. The aim of this study was to evaluate sympathetic outflow in humans with deep brain stimulating electrodes during ON and OFF stimulation of specific midbrain nuclei known to regulate cardiovascular function. Multiunit muscle sympathetic nerve activity was recorded in 17 patients undergoing deep brain stimulation for treatment of chronic neuropathic pain (n=7) and Parkinson disease (n=10). Sympathetic outflow was recorded during ON and OFF stimulation. Arterial blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory frequency were monitored during the recording session, and spontaneous vasomotor and cardiac baroreflex sensitivity were assessed. Head-up tilt testing was performed separately in the patients with Parkinson disease postoperatively. Stimulation of the dorsal most part of the subthalamic nucleus and ventrolateral periaqueductal gray resulted in improved vasomotor baroreflex sensitivity, decreased burst frequency and blood pressure, unchanged burst amplitude distribution, and a reduced fall in blood pressure after tilt. Stimulation of the dorsolateral periaqueductal gray resulted in a shift in burst amplitude distribution toward larger amplitudes, decreased spontaneous beat-to-beat blood pressure variability, and unchanged burst frequency, baroreflex sensitivity, and blood pressure. Our results indicate that a differentiated regulation of sympathetic outflow occurs in the subthalamic nucleus and periaqueductal gray. These results may have implications in our understanding of abnormal sympathetic discharge in cardiovascular disease and provide an opportunity for therapeutic targeting.
Introduction to “Stenogram of the General Meeting of the
Artists of the Union of Soviet Artists of Moldovia (15 May,
1951)”
Authors: Eşanu Octavian
Published: February 2014

This stenogram was recorded at an artists' meeting that took place in 1951 in Kishinev (as the capital of today's Republic of Moldova was called in those days). The discussion among the members of the local Union of Artists—a new type of art organization that was implemented in Moldova after the advance of the Red Army westwards—revolves around the organization of their annual art exhibition of 1951. The text discloses some of the major issues and challenges faced by the members of this artist organization during the late Stalinist era.
Confronting Globalization
Authors: Hallam Huw
Published: February 2014

This article reviews Pamela M. Lee's Forgetting the Art World (2012) and TJ Demos's Return to the Postcolony (2013). Reviewer examines the texts' shared concern with self-reflexive art practices that in different ways work to expose their own conditions of existence with respect to globalization. Both authors, according to the review, engage with art as a privileged medium that is capable of materializing knowledge about globalization and that thereby holds some potential to shape, mediate, or confront its trajectory. After appraising both the originality and limitations of Lee's and Demos's approaches, reviewer concludes with an outline of the core issues and challenges that globalization poses for art-historical methods.
The Operational Policies of the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation
Authors: Bradlow Daniel D. , Fourie Andria Naudé
Published: February 2014

International financial institutions (‘IFIs’), such as the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (‘IFC’), have progressively refined their own operational policies and established institutional accountability mechanisms, such as the Inspection Panel and Compliance Advisory Ombudsman, in response to external and internal demands for their enhanced accountability. This article argues that these two developments are instrumental in transforming IFIs such as the World Bank and the IFC into law-making and law-governed institutions. We argue that the operational policies, as well as the institutional processes surrounding these policies (that is, rule-making, rule-application and rule-enforcement processes), should be assessed in legal terms – even though the legal nature of the operational policies are contested, and the policies are only applicable to IFI staff and their borrowers. The main objective of this article is to provide an analysis in support of this contention.
Informal Justice and United Nations Peace Operations
Authors: Oswald Bruce
Published: February 2014

This paper seeks to address how UN military members undertaking UN peacekeeping operations should engage with customary or informal justice systems that they encounter. The relevant guidance that exists suggests that, as a policy matter, informal justice systems should not be allowed to deal with matters of serious crime because of the danger they may violate basic rights, and because dealing with serious crime is a key prerogative of the state. However, there is a growing movement away from adopting a unitary, state-centric rule of law orthodoxy approach, towards viewing the rule of law from the perspective of legal pluralism. Using that perspective, and in acknowledging that military members of UN peace operations are highly likely to be confronted by informal justice systems during peace operations, this paper maps three principles that UN military members should apply when dealing with informal justice systems in the context of UN peace operations: giving due regard to applicable informal justice systems, maintaining oversight of the application of informal justice norms and practices, and avoiding corrupting informal justice systems.
Rising Seas, Receding Coastlines, and Vanishing Maritime Estates and Territories: Possible Solutions and Reassessing the Role of International Law
Authors: Puthucherril Tony George
Published: February 2014

Abstract

This article probes the role of international law, (namely, the international law of the sea, the international rules on statehood, and international environmental law) in providing a legal and normative framework to help countries respond to the challenges brought about by sea level rise. It is noted that possible solutions can operate at two levels – first, by re-engineering existing international rules to secure continuance of the rights and privileges guaranteed under existing international law, and second, by bringing to the fore the need to develop international rules on integrated coastal zone management to facilitate the implementation of coastline armouring. The central argument here is that while new rules and principles of international law are required at both levels, the emphasis should, as a first step, be on rule development vis-à-vis integrated coastal zone management.
Back to Lotus? A Recent Decision by the Supreme Court of India on an Incident of Navigation in the Contiguous Zone
Authors: Farnelli Gian Maria
Published: February 2014

Abstract

This article stems from a recent decision of the Indian Supreme Court concerning whether the criminal courts of the Indian State of Kerala have jurisdiction over two Italian marines accused of killing two Indian fishermen. The analysis is critical of the Court’s reasoning and findings over the two main defences raised by the accused: namely, the lack of jurisdiction of the coastal state on the basis of the law of the sea and in relation to the customary rule on the jurisdictional immunity of military personnel for acts carried out in their line of duty. Finally, this study also critically examines the operational decision of the Indian Supreme Court in providing for the establishment of a specific domestic court deemed competent to entertain its jurisdiction over the cause in view of its international nature.
Introduction to Medicine or Satire on Doctors
Authors: Bianchi Alessandro
Published: February 2014

Abstract

This article aims to shed light on the multifarious relationship between medicine and literature in Tokugawa Japan (1603-1867) by focusing on a humorous-informative work of popular fiction entitledYōjō kyōkun isha dangi(1759). Firstly, this essay provides an overview ofIsha dangiexplaining how medical knowledge is grafted onto narrative structure. Secondly, it analyses the didactic and entertaining aspects of this text and describes howIsha dangiwas influenced both by works of comic literature and by instructive medical manuals produced during the Tokugawa period. In doing so, this study supports the hypothesis of genre hybridism in Japanese early-modern literature. Finally, usingIsha dangias a case study, this article takes into account issues of authorship and readership in medically-themed literary works.
Mobile Communication and Relational Mobilization in China
Authors: Liu Jun
Published: February 2014

Abstract

Recent studies have shown what indispensable role mobile phones play as means of mobilization in contentious politics around the world. Nevertheless, there has been no clear elaboration of how mobile phone uses translate into mobilization in contentious politics. To fill this gap, the current study employs Passy’s (2003) framework of the threefold function of social ties as channels of mobilization to examine how mobile communication, embedding the dynamics of social ties, influences protest mobilization. It investigates two cases in rural and urban China in which Chinese people employed their mobile phones to mobilize participants for protests, and conducts 24 in-depth interviews with participants in these protests. Findings suggest that using mobile phones for mobilization registers the relational dynamics of social ties, which shapes participants’ perceptions of given protest issues, ensures the safety of protest recruitment and mobilization in a repressive context, and generates pressure on participation, all of which contributes to the mechanism of mobilization. This study concludes with the concept of ‘relational mobilization’, which addresses the embedment and relevance of social ties in the process of mobile-phone-mediated mobilization and its implication for Asian countries.
Amomum sabuanum (Zingiberaceae): A new species from Sikkim, India
Authors: V. P. Thomas , NISSAR V.A, MUHAMMED , GUPTA U.
Published: February 2014

A new species Amomum sabuanum (Zingiberaceae) from Sikkim is described and illustrated.
A third new Cyrtodactylus (Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Ba Den Mountain, Tay Ninh Province, southern Vietnam
Authors: PHUNG TRUNG MY , SCHINGEN MONA VAN , ZIEGLER THOMAS , Nguyen Truong Quang
Published: February 2014

We describe the third new species of the genus Cyrtodactylus from Ba Den Mountain, Tay Ninh Province, southern Vietnam based on a type series consisting of eleven specimens. Cyrtodactylus thuongae sp. nov. is distinguished from the remaining Indochinese Bent-toed Geckos by a combination of the following morphological characters: size medium, with a maximum SVL of 77.6 mm; dorsal pattern consisting of blotches between limbs and on occiput and a sometimes medially opened nuchal loop; dorsal tubercles in 16–18 irregular rows; ventrals in 29–44 longitudinal rows at midbody; lateral skin folds present, lacking tubercles; femoral pore series separated from precloacal pore series in males, 0–3 on each side; precloacal pores in males absent or only one; enlarged femoral scales and precloacal scales present, separated by a series of 15–16 smaller scales; postcloacal spurs two or three; subcaudal scales slightly enlarged. This is the 32nd described Cyrtodactylus species from Vietnam.
On the identities of the molluscan names described in A Short Zoology of Tahiti in the Society Islands by Anthony Curtiss in 1938 (Mollusca: Cephalopoda, Gastropoda)
Authors: LOW MARTYN E.Y. , TAN SIONG KIAT
Published: February 2014

Anthony Curtiss described two species of cephalopod and nine species of gastropod molluscs from Tahiti. Herein, we discuss and determine the identities of these eleven names. Ten of these names are considered to be junior subjective synonyms of well-known taxa, and one an unavailable name.
Summer Nonconvective Severe Wind Frequency over Ontario and Its Correlation with Tropical Pacific Sea Surface Temperature
Authors: Zhang Da-Lin , Cao Zuohao , Ma Jianmin , Wu Aiming
Published: February 2014

The summer nonconvective severe surface wind (NCSSW) frequency over Ontario, Canada, in relation to regional climate conditions and tropical Pacific Ocean sea surface temperatures (SSTs) during the period of 1979–2006 is examined using surface wind reports and large-scale analysis data. A statistically robust positive trend in Ontario summer NCSSW frequency is identified using three independent statistical approaches, which include the conventional linear regression that has little disturbance to the original time series, the Mann–Kendall test without a lag-1 autoregressive process, and the Monte Carlo simulation. A composite analysis of the large-scale monthly mean data reveals that the high- (low-) NCSSW occurrence years are linked to stronger (weaker) large-scale horizontal pressure gradients and more (less) intensive vector wind anomalies in the upper troposphere. Unlike the low-event years, anomalous anticyclonic circulations are found at 500 and 250 hPa in the high-event years, which are conducive to downward momentum transport and favorable for severe surface wind development. It is also found that the summer NCSSW occurs more frequently under the conditions of warmer surface air temperature over Ontario. Further analyses indicate that an increase in the summer NCSSW frequency is well correlated with an increase in the previous winter SSTs over the eastern equatorial Pacific, namely, in the Niño-1+2 and Niño-3 areas, through a decrease in sea level pressure over northern Ontario and an increase in surface air temperature over central and southern Ontario.