bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adverse Outcomes in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma with Mutations of 3p21 Epigenetic Regulators BAP1 and SETD2: A Report by MSKCC and the KIRC TCGA Research Network
Authors: Hakimi A. Ari , Ostrovnaya Irina , Reva Boris , Schultz Nikolaus , Chen Ying-Bei , Gonen Mithat , Liu Han , Takeda Shugaku , Voss Martin H. , Tickoo Satish K. , Reuter Victor E. , Russo Paul , Cheng Emily H. , Sander Chris , Motzer Robert J. , Hsieh James J.
Published: April 2013

Purpose: To investigate the impact of newly identified chromosome 3p21 epigenetic tumor suppressors PBRM1, SETD2, and BAP1 on cancer-specific survival (CSS) of 609 patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) from 2 distinct cohorts.

Experimental Design: Select sequencing on 3p tumor suppressors of 188 patients who underwent resection of primary ccRCC at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) was conducted to interrogate the genotype–phenotype associations. These findings were compared with analyses of the genomic and clinical dataset from our nonoverlapping The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort of 421 patients with primary ccRCC.

Results: 3p21 tumor suppressors are frequently mutated in both the MSKCC (PBRM1, 30.3%; SETD2, 7.4%; BAP1, 6.4%) and the TCGA (PBRM1, 33.5%; SETD2, 11.6%; BAP1, 9.7%) cohorts. BAP1 mutations are associated with worse CSS in both cohorts [MSKCC, P = 0.002; HR 7.71; 95% confidence interval (CI)2.08–28.6; TCGA, P = 0.002; HR 2.21; 95% CI 1.35–3.63]. SETD2 are associated with worse CSS in the TCGA cohort (P = 0.036; HR 1.68; 95% CI 1.04–2.73). On the contrary, PBRM1 mutations, the second most common gene mutations of ccRCC, have no impact on CSS.

Conclusion: The chromosome 3p21 locus harbors 3 frequently mutated ccRCC tumor suppressor genes. BAP1 and SETD2 mutations (6%–12%) are associated with worse CSS, suggesting their roles in disease progression. PBRM1 mutations (30%–34%) do not impact CSS, implicating its principal role in the tumor initiation. Future efforts should focus on therapeutic interventions and further clinical, pathologic, and molecular interrogation of this novel class of tumor suppressors. Clin Cancer Res; 19(12); 3259–67. ©2013 AACR.
Regorafenib Inhibits Growth, Angiogenesis, and Metastasis in a Highly Aggressive, Orthotopic Colon Cancer Model
Authors: Abou-Elkacem Lotfi , Arns Susanne , Brix Gunnar , Gremse Felix , Zopf Dieter , Kiessling Fabian , Lederle Wiltrud
Published: April 2013

The combination of target-specific drugs like bevacizumab with chemotherapeutics has improved treatment efficacy in advanced colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the clinical prognosis of metastatic CRCs is still poor, and novel drugs are currently assessed with respect to their efficacies in patients with CRCs. In a phase III study, the multikinase inhibitor regorafenib (BAY 73-4506) has recently been shown to prolong survival of patients with CRCs after standard therapies failed. In the present study, the activity of regorafenib was investigated in comparison with the angiogenesis inhibitor DC101 in the highly aggressive, murine CT26 metastatic colon cancer model. While a treatment for 10 days with DC101 given at a dose of 34 mg/kg every third day significantly delayed tumor growth compared with vehicle-treated animals, regorafenib completely suppressed tumor growth at a daily oral dose of 30 mg/kg. Regorafenib also induced a stronger reduction in tumor vascularization, as longitudinally assessed in vivo by dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) and confirmed by immunohistochemistry. In addition, regorafenib inhibited the angiogenic activity more strongly and induced a three times higher apoptosis rate than DC101. Even more important, regorafenib completely prevented the formation of liver metastases, whereas in DC101-treated animals, the metastatic rate was only reduced by 33% compared with the vehicle group. In addition, regorafenib significantly reduced the amount of infiltrating macrophages. These data show that the multikinase inhibitor regorafenib exerts strong antiangiogenic, antitumorigenic, and even antimetastatic effects on highly aggressive colon carcinomas indicative for its high potential in the treatment of advanced CRCs. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(7); 1322–31. ©2013 AACR.
The Aurora Kinases Inhibitor VE-465 is a Novel Treatment for Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Lee Pei-Ying , Chen Chi-Long , Lin Zhong-Zhe , Cheng Ann-Lii , Chen Edmund I-Tsuen , Whang-Peng Jacqueline , Huang Chi-Ying F.
Published: April 2013

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most common and aggressive types of primary brain tumor. After complete surgical resection combined with radiation and chemotherapy, approximately 10% of patients survive for more than 5 years. Therefore, a novel therapy for GBM is needed. Aurora-A (AURKA) plays important roles in cell cycle regulation, such as centrosome maturation, chromatic separation, bipolar spindle assembly, and mitotic entry. To investigate the effects of AURKA inhibition, three GBM cell lines, including GBM 8401, GBM 8901, and U87-MG cells, were treated with the AURKA inhibitor VE-465. Sensitivities to VE-465, as indicated by 50% inhibitory concentration values for GBM 8401, GBM 8901, and U87-MG cells, were 6, 25, and 19 nM, respectively. Additionally, colony formation of GBM 8401 and GBM 8901 cells was decreased after treatment with the VE-465. VE-465 treatment increased polyploidy and p53 protein expression, and inhibited cell growth in a caspase-independent manner. Taken together, these results suggest that the inhibition of AURKA by a small-molecule inhibitor may have potential to serve as a novel therapeutic approach for GBM.
Risk Factors for Conversion during Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Retrospective Analysis of Ten Years' Experience at a Single Tertiary Referral Centre
Authors: Sultan Ahmad M. , El Nakeeb Ayman , Elshehawy Talaat , Elhemmaly Mohamed , Elhanafy Ehab , Atef Ehab
Published: April 2013

Background/Purpose: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the standard treatment for symptomatic benign gallbladder disease. The identification of factors that reliably predict the need to convert LC to open cholecystectomy (OC) would help with patient education and counseling. Methods: Between January 2000 and December 2009, 4,698 patients underwent cholecystectomy. LC was attempted in 4,434 patients (94.4%) and OC from the start was performed in 264 patients (5.6%). The causes for conversion were evaluated. The change in conversion rate between 2000 and 2004 and between 2005 and 2009 was analyzed. Factors predictive of conversion were identified by univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: Conversion to OC from an initial LC approach was required in 234 patients (5.3%). The main cause for conversion was dense adhesions (54.7%). Independent risk factors in multivariate analysis were male gender (p < 0.001), increased age (p < 0.001), a history of previous upper abdominal surgery (p < 0.001), a WBC count >9 × 103/μl, and urgently indicated cholecystectomy (p <0.001). The conversion rate decreased significantly from 6.7 to 3.6% over the two time intervals (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Those at highest risk for conversion are elderly male patients with prior abdominal surgery who present emergently with laboratory evidence of biliary inflammation.
Expression of Apoptosis- and Vitamin D Pathway-Related Genes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Fingas Christian D. , Altinbas Akif , Schlattjan Martin , Beilfuss Anja , Sowa Jan-Peter , Sydor Svenja , Bechmann Lars P. , Ertle Judith , Akkiz Hikmet , Herzer Kerstin , Paul Andreas , Gerken Guido , Baba Hideo A. , Canbay Ali
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common malignancy worldwide and therapeutic options are scarce. As they might represent future targets for cancer therapy, the expression of apoptosis-related genes in HCC is of particular interest. In this pilot study, we further examined apoptosis-related genes in human HCC and also focused on vitamin D signaling as this might be a regulator of HCC cell apoptosis. Methods: We employed tumor tissue and serum samples from 62 HCC patients as well as 62 healthy controls for these studies. Tissue and serum specimens were analyzed by quantitative RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and ELISA. Results: In HCC patients the apoptosis marker M30 was found to be elevated and several pro-apoptotic (TRAIL, FasL and FasR) as well as anti-apoptotic genes (Mcl-1 and Bcl-2) were simultaneously upregulated in tumor tissue and especially tumor-surrounding tissue as compared to healthy control livers. Moreover, vitamin D serum levels were decreased in HCC patients whereas vitamin D receptor mRNA expression was increased in tumor tissue and tumor-surrounding tissue as compared to healthy livers. Conclusions: In human HCC, M30 serum levels are elevated indicating an increased cell turnover. Modulation of the vitamin D pathway might be a supportive, pro-apoptotic HCC therapy.
A Direct Comparison of the Prevalence of Advanced Adenoma and Cancer between Surveillance and Screening Colonoscopies
Authors: Crispin Alexander , Mansmann Ulrich , Munte Axel , op den Winkel Mark , Göke Burkhard , Kolligs Frank Thomas
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: Surveillance colonoscopy is recommended after polypectomy of adenoma and surgery for colorectal cancer. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency of advanced adenoma and cancer in colonoscopies performed for surveillance compared to screening colonoscopies. Methods: Analysis of relative frequencies of findings in colonoscopies performed for post-adenoma surveillance (post-ad), post-cancer surveillance (post-crc), screening, and follow-up of a positive fecal occult blood test (FOBT). Logistic regression was used to identify the risk for advanced adenoma (adenoma ≥10 mm, containing high-grade dysplasia, or villous histology) and cancer. Results: 324,912 colonoscopies were included in the analysis: 81,877 post-ad, 26,896 post-crc, 178,305 screening, 37,834 positive FOBT. Advanced adenoma (cancer) was diagnosed in 8.0% (0.4%) of post-ad, 5.0% (1.0%) of post-crc, 7.4% (1.1%) of screening, and 11.7% (3.6%) of positive FOBT colonoscopies. Compared to screening, the odds ratios for finding advanced adenoma were 0.93 (95% CI 0.88-0.98) for post-ad, 0.96 (0.86-1.08) for post-crc, and 1.18 (1.09-1.28) for positive FOBT colonoscopies. The odds ratios for the diagnosis of cancer were 0.29 (0.24-0.36) for post-ad, 0.81 (0.61-1.07) for post-crc, and 2.77 (2.43-3.17) for positive FOBT. Conclusion: Colonoscopy for post-ad surveillance but not colonoscopy for post-crc surveillance is associated with a lower risk of diagnosis of advanced adenoma and cancer.
Resilience of the Immune System in Healthy Young Students to 30-Hour Sleep Deprivation with Psychological Stress
Authors: Matzner Pini , Hazut Ofir , Naim Reut , Shaashua Lee , Sorski Liat , Levi Ben , Sadeh Avi , Wald Ilan , Bar-Haim Yair , Ben-Eliyahu Shamgar
Published: April 2013

Objective: Young adults often encounter sleep deprivation and stressful events. Both have been separately reported to modulate immunity, and occasionally they occur simultaneously. We assessed the combined effects of these conditions on immune competence in healthy students. Methods: Twenty-three participants (mean age 24 years; SD 1.86; 14 females) were exposed to 30 h of sleep deprivation during which they conducted physiological, social and cognitive tasks. The control group consisted of 18 participants (mean age 23.67 years; SD 1.46; 11 females). All participants underwent cognitive and psychological evaluations at 10:00 AM, followed by blood and saliva collection, 3 days before sleep deprivation induction and on the morning following it. Immune/endocrine measures included blood counts of lymphocytes, granulocytes, monocytes and natural killer (NK) cells; levels of several cell surface markers; NK cytotoxicity; plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, dehydroepiandrosterone and neuropeptide Y, and plasma and salivary cortisol levels. Results: Although the experimental protocol significantly elevated state anxiety and psychological dissociation levels, no effects were evident in any of the immunological/endocrine indices. In contrast, expected sex differences in immune measures were found, including significantly higher NK cytotoxicity and monocyte counts in males, validating the integrity of the measurements. Conclusions: The findings suggest resilience of the immune system to a combined sleep deprivation and stressful exposure in young adults, while previous studies reported immune perturbations following either of these conditions separately. These apparent contradictions might reflect differences in the study design or in the methodology used for immunological assessments, including the time of sample collection, the combination of sleep deprivation with stress and our in vivo assessment of cytokine levels.
Aicardi Syndrome Associated with Autosomal Genomic Imbalance: Coincidence or Evidence for Autosomal Inheritance with Sex-Limited Expression?
Authors: Prontera P. , Bartocci A. , Ottaviani V. , Isidori I. , Rogaia D. , Ardisia C. , Guercini G. , Mencarelli A. , Donti E.
Published: April 2013

Aicardi syndrome (AIS), a rare neurodevelopmental disorder thought to be caused by an X-linked dominant mutation, is characterized by 3 main features: agenesis of corpus callosum, infantile spams and chorioretinal lacunae. A genome-wide study of a girl with AIS lead us to identify a 6q deletion;12q duplication, derived from a maternal 6q;12q translocation. The two intellectually impaired brothers of the proband showed the same genomic anomalies, but not the constellation of features characterizing the AIS. This could be either a coincidental observation of 2 rare conditions, but can also suggest an alternative hypothesis for the genetic etiology of AIS, indicating the existence of a subset of autosomal genes whose mutation could act in a sex-confined manner.
Multimodal CT: Favorable Outcome Factors in Acute Middle Cerebral Artery Stroke with Large Artery Occlusion
Authors: Lee Joon Hwa , Kim Young Jin , Choi Jin Woo , Roh Hong Gee , Chun Young Il , Cho Hyun-Ji , Kim Hahn Young
Published: April 2013

Background: We investigated which parameters of multimodal computed tomography (CT) or their combinations might be useful as additional imaging predictors for favorable outcomes in acute stroke patients with large artery occlusion. Methods: The parameters of multimodal CT, including non-enhanced CT, CT angiography, perfusion CT parameters, CT angiography source image (CTA-SI), and collateral flow, were analyzed in 66 consecutive patients with acute middle cerebral artery stroke with large artery occlusion. For favorable outcomes at the 3-month follow-up, odds ratios of multimodal CT parameters with an optimum predictive cut-off Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) were assessed. Results: Cerebral blood volume (CBV) ASPECTS ≥6, CTA-SI ASPECTS ≥7, and good collateral flow were associated with a favorable outcome. The combination of those parameters had better predictive validity compared to a single parameter only: CBV (p = 0.039), CTA-SI (p = 0.038), and collateral flow (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Among the various parameters of multimodal CT, CBV ASPECTS ≥6, CTA-SI ASPECTS ≥7, and good collateral flow might be the most reliable predictors for favorable outcomes in acute stroke patients with large artery occlusion. Moreover, considering these parameters simultaneously might improve the predictive validity of multimodal CT for functional outcome.
Macular Thickness Measured by Stratus Optical Coherence Tomography in Patients with Diabetes Type 2 and Mild Nonproliferative Retinopathy without Clinical Evidence of Macular Edema
Authors: Pires Isabel , Santos Ana Rita , Nunes Sandrina , Lobo Conceição
Published: April 2013

To evaluate macular thickness in eyes with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), patients with diabetes type 2, NPDR level 20 or 35, and without evidence of clinical macular edema underwent best-corrected visual acuity assessment, color fundus photography and Stratus optical coherence tomography. Mean center point thickness (CPT) and mean central subfield (CSF) thickness were compared with those of a healthy control population. 410 eyes/patients aged 61.2 ± 8.3 years, and with glycosylated hemoglobin of 7.9 ± 1.5% were included. Mean CPT and CSF were 186.6 ± 28.4 and 215.2 ± 25 µm, respectively, significantly increased compared to healthy subjects (p < 0.001). CSF thickness was abnormally increased in 17.6% of the patients, with values within the normal range in 79.5%, and abnormally decreased in 2.9%. CPT and CSF thickness were significantly thicker in men. No systemic factors showed a significant association. A significant increase in the macular thickness was found in eyes/patients with mild NPDR without clinical macular edema; however, only 17.6% of the eyes/patients had abnormally increased values and less than 3% abnormally decreased values.
Outcome of Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation in Patients With Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Piers Sebastiaan R.D. , Leong Darryl P. , van Taxis Carine F.B. van Huls , Tayyebi Mohammad , Trines Serge A. , Pijnappels Daniël A. , Delgado Victoria , Schalij Martin J. , Zeppenfeld Katja
Published: April 2013

Background—

Ablation failure and recurrence rates after ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation in nonischemic cardiomyopathy are high and the optimal procedural end point is not well defined. This study assessed the outcome after ablation, the impact of noninducibility, and other potential predictors of VT recurrence.

Methods and Results—

Forty-five patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy (60±16 years; left ventricular ejection fraction, 44±14%) accepted for VT ablation were included. Epicardial mapping was performed in 29 (64%). A median of 2 (first-to-third quartile, 2–4) VTs (cycle length, 342±77 ms) were induced per patient. After ablation, the complete programmed electric stimulation protocol (3 drive cycle length, 3 extrastimuli ≥200 ms, and burst≥2 sites) was repeated. Complete success (noninducibility of any monomorphic VT) was achieved in 17 patients (38%), partial success (elimination of clinical VT, persistent inducibility of nonclinical VT) in 17 patients (38%), and failure (persistent inducibility of clinical VT) in 11 patients (24%). During 25±15 months of follow-up, VT occurred in 24 patients (53%), but the 6-month VT burden was reduced by ≥75% in 79%. Recurrence rates were low after complete procedural success (18%), but high after both partial success (77%) and failure (73%). Non-complete procedural success was the strongest predictor of VT recurrence (hazard ratio, 8.20; 95% confidence interval, 2.37–28.43;
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

Although 53% of patients had VT during follow-up, the 6-month VT burden was decreased by ≥75% in 79%. Recurrence rates are low after complete procedural success, but high after both partial success and failure. Non-complete procedural success was the strongest predictor of VT recurrence.
Yield of Catheter Angiography After Computed Tomography Negative, Lumbar Puncture Positive Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Wallace Adam N. , Dines Jeffrey N. , Zipfel Gregory J. , Derdeyn Colin P.
Published: April 2013

Background and Purpose—

Patients suspected of having aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) are initially evaluated with noncontrast head computed tomography. If the computed tomography is negative, but clinical concern for SAH is high, a lumbar puncture with cerebrospinal fluid analysis is typically performed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of cerebrospinal fluid xanthochromia and erythrocytosis for aneurysmal SAH.

Methods—

Medical records of all patients who underwent catheter angiography at Barnes Jewish Hospital between July 2002 and April 2012 for clinical suspicion of a ruptured brain aneurysm after a negative computed tomography scan and a lumbar puncture suspicious for SAH were reviewed. The cerebrospinal fluid analysis results, angiographic findings, and outcomes of each case were recorded.

Results—

Fifty-seven patients were identified. Two angiographic lesions were identified in patients with xanthochromia (2/24 patients, ie, 8.3%), both of which were confirmed to have ruptured. The diagnostic yield in patients with nonclearing erythrocytosis and no xanthochromia was 6.3% (1/16 patients), although this lesion was not considered the source of SAH.

Conclusions—

Catheter angiography should be performed in patients with computed tomography negative but suspicious lumbar puncture, particularly in the presence of xanthochromia. The benefit of angiography in patients with erythrocytosis only is unclear and deserves future study.
Waiting on the Holy Spirit (Acts 1.4): Extending a Metaphor to Biblical Interpretation
Authors: Wall Robert W.
Published: April 2013

This article seeks to extend the Pentecostal practice of ‘waiting on the Holy Spirit’ to biblical interpretation: to wait on the Spirit is to await the filling of the Spirit to illumine Scripture’s witness to God’s plan of salvation in a way impossible otherwise. Support for this idea is retrieved from a study of the risen Jesus’ parting instruction for his apostles to await the Spirit’s baptism in Jerusalem (Acts 1.4), which considers Luke’s narration of this event in its compositional and canonical settings.
Toward A Pentecostal Theology of Concursus
Authors: Reichard Joshua D.
Published: April 2013

This article entails a critical analysis of the Pentecostal understanding of concursus. The survey of literature consists of the principal elements of Pentecostal pneumatology and the activity of the Spirit as the basis from which the corresponding Pentecostal perception of the God-world relationship is derived. The analysis includes three Pentecostal perspectives in light of historical philosophical categories of concursus. Following that analysis, a synthesis of these perspectives is presented as a specifically Pentecostal formulation that evades historical categories. Finally, the appropriation and application of spiritual power through lived experience is surveyed, which forms the basis of a Pentecostal theology of concursus as mediate cooperation with the Spirit through human agency.
The Gifts of God for the People of the World: A Look at Pneumatology in the Work of Jacques Dupuis and Samuel Solivan on Interreligious Dialogue
Authors: Santiago-Vendrell Angel D.
Published: April 2013

This article addresses interreligious dialogue from a pneumatological Hispanic Pentecostal perspective in dialogue with Jesuit theologian Jacques Dupuis. The article is an expression of contextual theology taking into consideration the multilayered character of the Hispanic Pentecostal communities based on ethnicity, race, gender, socio-political, and religious location. Both Samuel Solivan and Jaques Dupuis conceived pneumatology as intrinsically necessary for constructing communities of solidarity and empowerment with adherents of other faith traditions. The article concludes with a visionary calling to the Hispanic Pentecostal community to contribute to the larger conversation of religious pluralism and interreligious dialogue based on the diversity and inclusivity of their shared history.
Delimitation in the Veratrum mengtzeanum—V. chiengdaoense complex (Melanthiaceae) in Thailand based on morphology, with commentary on conservation status
Authors: TRIAS-BLASI ANNA , SUKSATHAN PIYAKASET
Published: April 2013

The two species of Veratrum in Thailand, V. mengtzeanum and V. chiengdaoense, are supported as conspecific with a detailed morphological study. Two distinct subspecies of V. mengzeanum s.l. are defined based on morphology and distribution, and a new subspecies, Veratrum mengzeanum subsp. phuwae is described. Conservation assessments are provided for both subspecies.
New combinations in Lejeunea with a new name to Otigoniolejeunea indica
Authors: SINGH S.K.
Published: April 2013

The subgenus Otigoniolejeunea Spruce (1884: 77) of Lejeunea Lib. (1820: 372) was initially described with five species, viz. L. acanthotis Spruce (1884: 227), L. cyrtotis Spruce (1884: 227), L. quinqueumbonata Spruce (1884: 227), L. schizotis Spruce (1884: 227) and L. xiphotis Spruce (1884: 227), all from South America. A few years later, the subgenus was upgraded to genus level by Schiffner (1895) who made the combinations Otigoniolejeunea xiphotis (Spruce) Schiffn. (1895: 125) and O. schizotis (Spruce) Schiffn. (1895: 125). The former species was designated as the lectotype of Otigoniolejeunea by Vanden Berghen (1948).
Milrinone in Advanced Heart Failure
Authors: Charisopoulou Dafni , Leaver Neil , Banner Nicholas R.
Published: April 2013

Advanced chronic heart failure (ACHF) patients often require inotropes before transplantation or ventricular assist device implantation. Milrinone, an inotrope and vasodilator, may accumulate in cardiorenal syndrome with serious adverse effects. We investigated the potential for therapeutic drug monitoring of milrinone levels using High Performance Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS). 22 ACHF patients (15 males, 49±9 years) received milrinone 50 µg/kg intravenously (i.v.) during heart catheterization. Milrinone levels were 216±71 ng/ml (within the reported therapeutic range: 100-300 ng/ml), followed by improvements in cardiac index, pulmonary artery and wedge pressures (p < 0.005). 18 ACHF patients (17 males, 50±12 years, 13 had renal dysfunction) received continuous i.v. milrinone (5-26 days) at 0.1-0.2 µg/kg/min, titrated according to plasma milrinone levels. No adverse events occurred. Therapeutic levels were achieved with doses of 0.2±0.06 µg/Kg/min, below those recommended in Summary of Product Characteristics. Milrinone therapy can be noninvasively monitored by HPLC-MS, while avoiding toxicity in ACHF.
Influence of age at diagnosis and duration of diabetes on the positivity of glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody in South-Brazilian type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Maraschin Jorge de Faria , Weinert Letícia Schwerz , Murussi Nádia , Witter Vanessa , Rodrigues Ticiana da Costa , Rossato Egna Regina , Silveiro Sandra Pinho
Published: April 2013

Aim

To evaluate the influence of age of onset and duration of diabetes on the positivity of glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody (GADA) in South-Brazilian type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients.

Methods

GADA was evaluated in 92 patients with type 1 diabetes, in 147 gestational DM patients, and in 59 subjects with normal glucose tolerance.

Results

Type 1 patients with positive GADA ( N = 44, 48%) were older at the onset of diabetes (22 ± 9 versus 18 ± 10 y, P = 0.043) and had a shorter DM duration (12 ± 8 versus 19 ± 9 y, P < 0.001), as compared with negative GADA patients. A logistic regression with antibody positivity as the dependent variable and diabetes duration as the independent variable, showed that the shorter diabetes duration was related to the presence of the antibody with an odds ratio (OR) = 5.6; (CI 95% = 2.1–14.6); P < 0.001. Another model, with age at diagnosis as the independent variable, did not show any association with antibody positivity. However, analysing only men, a shorter DM duration (OR = 6.5; CI = 1.7–24.0; P = 0.006), and also a higher age at diagnosis (OR = 5.5; CI = 1.5–21.0; P = 0.01) were significantly related to the antibody positivity. The performance of GADA was similar in up to 15 y of duration of DM ( P = 0.78), but significantly diminished with higher duration ( P = 0.001).

Conclusion

GADA testing is a helpful tool in the diagnosis of type 1 DM starting in young adults and older individuals. Even though the positivity rate declines along the course of disease, it still provides useful information up to 15 y after the diabetes diagnosis.
Segregation in Charter Schools
Authors: Eckes Suzanne E. , Plucker Jonathan A.
Published: April 2013

This article argues that one possible avenue for addressing and increasing student body diversity in charter schools may lie with the authorizer. In particular, we focus on the role of university-based authorizers, a group of sponsors that would appear to be especially concerned with educational opportunity given their faculties’ traditional concern with issues of social justice. Thus, this article examines whether university-based charter school authorizers encourage charter school operators to recruit and enroll a diverse student body, and it discusses the role that authorizers could play in promoting more diverse charter schools.
Antisocial Capital
Authors: McDoom Omar Shahabudin
Published: April 2013

Although popularly perceived as a positive force important for objectives such as economic development and democracy, social capital may also be linked to less desirable outcomes. This article highlights a dark side to social capital by pointing to its role in a particularly pernicious phenomenon: genocidal violence. Drawing on a survey of residents from one community that experienced violence during Rwanda's 1994 genocide, I show that individual participation in the violence was partly determined by the features of residents' social networks. Perpetrators possessed larger networks in general and more connections to other perpetrators in particular. The quality as well as quantity of connections also mattered. Strong ties generally, and kinship and neighborly ties specifically, were strong predictors of participation. In contrast, possession of countervailing ties to nonparticipants did not reduce a resident's likelihood of participation. Drawing on in-depth interviews to explore the possible mechanisms behind these findings, I suggest participants' networks fulfilled functions of information diffusion, social influence, and behavioral regulation. More broadly, the findings suggest the importance of social structure and social interaction for participation in collective violence. Relational data should complement individual attribute data in predicting participation. The findings also suggest, contrary to the neo-Malthusian interpretation, that the role played by Rwanda's extraordinarily high population density in the violence may have been more sociological than ecological in origin. The diffusion, influence, and regulatory effects of social connections are likely to be amplified in communities where individuals live in close spatial proximity to each other.
Viva la Raza! A Park, a Riot and Neighbourhood Change in North Denver
Authors: Langegger Sig
Published: April 2013

People reside in homes; however, they live in neighbourhoods comprised of parks, sidewalks, restaurants, shops and other everyday places. Whether current or potential neighbourhood residents feel at home in these places remains an undertheorised aspect of neighbourhood change. Rather than housing policy or real estate development, this essay explores public space as a mechanism of neighbourhood change. Drawing from ethnographic research in the Latino barrios of North Denver, It deconstructs the history of one small yet vital public space—la Raza Park. During the 1970s, this park, its pool and the many events it grounded, built community cohesion and fostered cultural identity. In 1981, city authorities went so far as to deploy a SWAT team to la Raza Park to enforce a permit violation. The following summer, they demolished its pool. North Denver is now gentrifying rapidly. This essay stitches these disparate-seeming events into a story of neighbourhood change.
Adolescent-Friendly Remedies for the Challenges of Focus Group Research
Authors: Daley Alison Moriarty
Published: April 2013

Focus groups are an increasingly popular method of qualitative research; however, as with any research method, limitations emerge that were not anticipated. This article reviewed the limitations reported in 21 research studies, published between 2002 and 2012, to identify the common concerns of researchers in focus group studies with adolescents. Limitations focused on methodological concerns, recruitment challenges, and the potential influences of peers and the moderator on research results. Remedies are suggested for modifying the focus group method to address these potential challenges within the context of adolescent development and adolescent-friendly care.
Factors Influencing Bereaved Families’ Decisions About Organ Donation
Authors: Walker Wendy , Broderick Andrew , Sque Magi
Published: April 2013

This article reports on the process and outcomes of a systematic integrative literature review, designed to enhance understanding of the factors influencing bereaved families’ decisions to agree or decline the donation of their deceased relative’s organs for transplantation. Research originating from eight Western countries ( N = 20 studies) provided an international perspective to the review. Thematic analysis and synthesis of textual data culminated in the development of three global themes (past, present, and future) that captured the temporal dimensions of family decision making. The review findings provide valuable insight into ways of increasing the rate of consent to organ donation through the development family-centered care interventions that reflect the needs of the bereaved. Further research to explore the pathway of donation after circulatory death and the experiences of bereaved families who decline organ donation is essential to providing a more complete understanding of the factors affecting donation decisions.
HIV Knowledge and Behavior Among Chinese College Students in China and the United States
Authors: Tung Wei-Chen , Cook Daniel M. , Lu Minggen , Yang Wei
Published: April 2013

Disease prevention can be improved with a better understanding of student–environment interactions. The purposes of the study were (a) to compare HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, attitudes, sexual behaviors, and sources of HIV/STI information and (b) to investigate the association between sources of HIV/STI information and HIV/AIDS-related knowledge, attitudes, and sexual behaviors among Chinese college students in China and the United States. Comparative, correlational analysis of survey data from 608 students in two countries was conducted. Chinese students in the United States scored higher on knowledge questions. More students in the United States received HIV/STI information from the Internet and family members than did students in China. Traditional media and schoolteachers had a stronger association with participants’ HIV-related knowledge, age at first intercourse, and number of sexual partners in both samples than did other sources. The survey revealed incomplete knowledge within both groups. Prevention programs should focus on risky misconceptions and should teach about strategic utilization of media.
T2-weighted vs. intrathecal contrast-enhanced MR cisternography in the evaluation of CSF rhinorrhea
Authors: Ecin Gaye , Oner A Yusuf , Tokgoz Nil , Ucar Murat , Aykol Sukru , Tali Turgut
Published: April 2013

Background

Endoscopic surgical approach is being more widely used in the treatment of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea. Accurate localization of CSF fistulas prior to surgery is essential in increasing the success of dural repair and in decreasing negative or recurrent explorations.

Purpose

To evaluate and compare intrathecal contrast medium-enhanced magnetic resonance cisternography (CEMRC) with T2-weighted MR cisternography (T2MRC) in identifying the presence and site of CSF rhinorrhea.

Material and Methods

Sixty patients with suspected CSF rhinorrhea underwent MR cisternography including intrathecally enhanced fat-suppressed T1WI in three orthogonal planes and T2WI in the coronal plane. Both set of images were reviewed by two blinded radiologists for the presence and location of CSF leakage. Imaging data were compared with surgical findings and/or beta-2 transferrin testing.

Results

With surgery proven CSF leakage in 20 instances as reference, CEMRC detected 18 (90%), whereas T2MRC reported only 13 (65%) correctly. Overall, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value in detecting CSF fistulas were 92%, 80%, 76%, and 93% for CEMRC, and 56%, 77%, 64%, and 71% for T2MRC, respectively.

Conclusion

The minimally invasive CEMRC is an effective method with higher sensitivity and specificity than T2MRC in the evaluation of CSF fistulas.
Biomechanical Evaluation of 3 Stabilization Methods on Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocations
Authors: Nüchtern Jakob V. , Sellenschloh Kay , Bishop Nick , Jauch Sabrina , Briem Daniel , Hoffmann Michael , Lehmann Wolfgang , Pueschel Klaus , Morlock Michael M. , Rueger Johannes M. , Großterlinden Lars G.
Published: April 2013

Background:

Traumatic acromioclavicular (AC) joint dislocations can be addressed with several surgical stabilization techniques. The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate biomechanical features of the native joint compared with 3 different stabilization methods: locking hook plate (HP), TightRope (TR), and bone anchor system (AS).

Hypothesis:

The HP provides higher stiffness than the anatomic reconstruction techniques.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A new biomechanical in vitro model of the AC joint was used to analyze joint stability after surgical repair (HP, TR, and AS). Eighteen cadaveric specimens were randomized for bone density and diameter in the midclavicle section. Joint stiffness was measured by applying an axial load and a defined physiological range of motion for internal and external rotations and upward and downward rotations. Data were recorded at 3 stages: for the native joint after dissecting the AC ligaments, directly after repair, and after axial cyclic loading (1000 cycles with 20 and 70 N at 1 Hz). To evaluate which implant mimics physiological joint properties best, axial stiffness of vertical stability was assessed in combination with rotation. Finally, static loading in the superior direction was applied until failure of the joints occurred.

Results:

Axial stiffness of the TR and AS groups was 2-fold higher than for the HP group and the native joint (67.1, 66.1, and 22.5 N/mm, respectively; P < .004). Decreased load-to-failure rates were recorded in the HP group compared with the TR and AS groups (248.9 ± 72.7, 832.0 ± 401.4, and 538.0 ± 166.1 N, respectively). The stiffness of the rotations was not significantly different between the treatment methods but was lower in horizontal and downward rotations compared with the native state. Thus, native AC ligaments contributed a significant share to joint stiffness.

Conclusion:

The TR and AS groups demonstrated higher vertical load capacity. Compared with the TR and AS, the HP demonstrated an axial stiffness closest to the native joint. For restoring physiological properties, reconstruction of the AC ligaments may be necessary.

Clinical Relevance:

The results show different biomechanical properties of the HP and anatomic reconstructions.
Beyond Talking About Books
Authors: Feiker Hollenbeck Amy R.
Published: April 2013

This investigation extends the study of the reading comprehension practices used with students with learning disabilities (LD) via a case study, exploring the beliefs and practices in reading comprehension of “Wendy,” a cross-categorical special educator nominated as effective in her work with sixth-grade students. Wendy’s practices serve as a unique case: Her focus on supporting students with reading comprehension utilizing an instructional model described as “talking about books” varies from typical practices used by special educators. Passionately articulating the importance of teachers assuming responsibility for the learning of students with LD, Wendy simultaneously attributes limitations in her own students’ growth to the complexities of text at the intermediate level. Implications for extending research and refining practice are presented in conclusion.
Physical and chemical characterization of ashes from a municipal solid waste incinerator in China
Authors: Yu Jie , Sun Lushi , Xiang Jun , Jin Limei , Hu Song , Su Sheng , Qiu Jianrong
Published: April 2013

In this study we analyzed the characteristics of bottom and fly ashes from a municipal solid waste incinerator in China. The physical properties of particle size distribution and morphology were evaluated. At the chemical level, the chemical composition, heavy metal leaching behavior and BCR sequential extraction procedure (the Community Bureau of Reference, now the European Union ‘Measurement and Testing Programme’) were determined. The main mineralogical crystalline phases in raw and leached bottom and fly ashes were also identified. For the bottom ashes, the concentration of heavy metals showed a slight decrease with an increase in particle size, and most of the heavy metal concentrations in fly ashes were higher than those in bottom ashes. The results of the toxicity characteristic leaching procedure indicated that, among the metals, the concentrations of lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) in fly ash leachate exceeded thresholds, while the concentrations of studied heavy metals in bottom ash leachate were all below the regulatory limit. The BCR results indicated that more easily mobilized forms (acid exchangeable) were predominant for cadmium and zinc; in contrast, the largest amount of Pb, Cu and manganese were associated with iron/manganese oxide, organic matter/sulfide fractions, or were residual.
Encephalocraniocutaneous Lipomatosis With Neurocutaneous Melanosis
Authors: Jain Puneet , Chakrabarty Biswaroop , Kumar Atin , Gupta Neerja , Kabra Madhulika , Gulati Sheffali
Published: April 2013

Encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis is a rare neurocutaneous syndrome characterized by classical cutaneous and ocular lesions with central nervous system anomalies. We describe an infant with classical encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis characterized by probable naevus psiloliparus, frontal subcutaneous lipomas, ocular limbal dermoids and arachnoid cysts, and ventriculomegaly. He also had giant congenital nevus with leptomeningeal melanosis. This case represents a rare association between encephalocraniocutaneous lipomatosis and neurocutaneous melanosis.
Immune Tolerance Induced Using Plasma Exchange and Rituximab in an Infantile Pompe Disease Patient
Authors: Deodato Federica , Ginocchio Virginia Maria , Onofri Alfredo , Grutter Giorgia , Germani Alessandro , Dionisi-Vici Carlo
Published: April 2013

Infantile Pompe disease, resulting from deficiency of lysosomal acid α-glucosidase, requires enzyme replacement therapy with recombinant human acid α-glucosidase. Most patients develop antirecombinant human acid α-glucosidase antibodies, leading to reduced response to enzyme therapy in a subgroup of them. Aiming to improve treatment response, several immune tolerance induction strategies have been explored. We describe a patient with life-threatening infusion-associated reactions presenting anti-recombinant human acid α-glucosidase antibodies. He was successfully treated with an immune tolerance induction protocol, consisting of plasma exchange combined with a single dose of rituximab. Immediate reduction of antibody titer was obtained and enzyme therapy was resumed without infusion-associated reactions. Twenty-two months later, immunoglobulin G titer remained below 1:100. In conclusion, we applied a short-course immune tolerance induction strategy in a patient with severe infusion-associated reactions and anti-recombinant human acid α-glucosidase antibodies, leading to early and persisting reduction of antibody titer, in the absence of significant adverse events.
Encounters With Objective Coherence and the Experience of Meaning in Life
Authors: Heintzelman Samantha J. , Trent Jason , King Laura A.
Published: April 2013

The experience of meaning is often conceptualized as involving reliable pattern or coherence. However, research has not addressed whether exposure to pattern or coherence influences the phenomenological experience of meaning in life. Four studies tested the prediction that exposure to objective coherence (vs. incoherence) would lead to higher reports of meaning in life. In Studies 1 and 2 (combined N = 214), adults rated photographs of trees presented in patterns (organized around their seasonal content) or randomly. Participants in the pattern conditions reported higher meaning in life than those in the random conditions. Studies 3 and 4 (combined N = 229) yielded similar results when participants read coherent, as opposed to incoherent, linguistic triads. The manipulations did not influence explicit or implicit affect. Implications for understanding the human experience of meaning, the processes that support that experience, and its potential role in adaptation are discussed.
Energy analysis of underground coal gasification with CO2 capture and auxiliary power production
Authors: Self Stuart J , Rosen Marc A , Reddy Bale V
Published: April 2013

Underground coal gasification is a method of converting in situ coal into synthesis gas through the same chemical reactions that occur in surface gasifiers. If underground coal gasification systems are combined with carbon capture and storage methods, CO2 emissions can be greatly reduced. Carbon capture and storage methods require considerable amount of energy to separate CO2 and prepare it for transport and storage, which is typically considered a parasitic loss. This study investigates utilizing waste heat rejected during processing of syngas from underground coal gasification using an auxiliary power plant, to supply the required energy associated with amine-based CO2 capture and compression processes necessary for transport and sequestration. The system investigated is the Newman Spinney underground coal gasification test plant coupled with a basic Rankine cycle. It is shown that the energy requirement for CO2 processing can be met through the use of an auxiliary plant. The basic model illustrates that the power produced by the auxiliary plant is 2.1 times greater than that required by CO2 compression, while supplying the required heat for amine-based CO2 capture. Parametric analyses are performed to investigate the impact of air injection rate, syngas cooling and CO2 capture and compression requirements on system performance.
Film-cooling performance in supersonic flows: effect of shock impingement
Authors: Salvadori Simone , Montomoli Francesco , Martelli Francesco
Published: April 2013

High pressure turbine stages work in transonic regimes and then shock waves, shed by the trailing edge, impinge on the suction side modifying the flow structures. Gas turbine entry temperature is much higher than the allowable material limit and the hot components can survive only using advanced film-cooling systems. Unfortunately these systems are designed without taking into account the interaction with the shock waves and this article would like to address this problem and to evaluate if this assumption is correct or not. A correct prediction and understanding of the interaction between the ejected coolant and the shock waves is crucial in order to achieve an optimal distribution of the coolant and to increase the components’ life. In this work, the numerical investigation of a film-cooling test case, investigated experimentally by the University of Karlsruhe, is shown. An in-house computational fluid dynamics solver is used for the numerical analysis. The test rig consists of a converging–diverging nozzle that accelerates the incoming flow up to supersonic conditions and an oblique shock is generated at the nozzle exit section. Three cases have been studied, where the cooling holes have been positioned before, near and after the shock impingement. The results obtained considering four blowing ratios are presented and compared with the available experimental data. The local adiabatic effectiveness is affected by the shock–coolant interaction and this effect has been observed for all the blowing ratios investigated. A similar trend is observed in the experimental data even if the numerical simulations over-predict the impact of the interaction.