bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurements in Pediatric Patients with Cardiomyopathies: Comparison of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Echocardiography
Authors: Zhang Yuting , He Ling , Cai Jinhua , Lv Tiewei , Yi Qijian , Xu Yang , Liu Lingjuan , Zhu Jing , Tian Jie
Published: May 2015

Aims: Cardiomyopathies are common cardiovascular diseases in children. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) and echocardiography (Echo) are routinely applied in the detection and diagnosis of pediatric cardiomyopathies. In this study, we compared and explored the correlation between these two measurements in pediatric patients with various cardiomyopathies. Methods and Results: A total of 53 pediatric patients with cardiomyopathy hospitalized during the recent 3 years in our hospital were analyzed. All of them and 22 normal controls were assessed by both cMRI and Echo. Cardiac function of the patients was graded according to the New York Heart Association functional classification. The cardiac function indexes measured with both cMRI and Echo included left-ventricular (LV) end-diastolic volume (EDV), end-systolic volume, ejection fraction and fractional shortening. These parameters were somehow lower in cMRI measurements than in Echo measurements. The index of diastolic function, such as peak filling rate (PFR) measured with cMRI, had a good correlation with the clinical cardiac functional score, while the index of the diastolic function (early/atrial filling ratio and isovolumic relaxation time) measured with Echo was not well correlated with the clinical cardiac function score. Significant systolic dysfunction was detected by cMRI in 34 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, LV noncompaction or endocardial fibroelastosis. Significant diastolic dysfunction was detected by cMRI in 19 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or restrictive cardiomyopathy showing an alteration in PFR and EDV. Conclusion: Both cMRI and Echo are of great value in the diagnosis and assessment of cardiac function in pediatric patients with cardiomyopathy. cMRI could accurately display the characteristic morphological changes in the hearts affected with cardiomyopathies, and late gadolinium enhancement on cMRI may reveal myocardial fibrosis, which has obvious advantages over Echo measurements in diagnosis. Furthermore, cMRI can quantitatively determine ventricular function because it does not make invalid geometrical assumptions.
New Insights into the Genetics of Fetal Megacystis: ACTG2 Mutations, Encoding γ-2 Smooth Muscle Actin in Megacystis Microcolon Intestinal Hypoperistalsis Syndrome (Berdon Syndrome)
Authors: Tuzovic Lea , Tang Sha , Miller Russell S. , Rohena Luis , Shahmirzadi Layla , Gonzalez Kelly , Li Xiang , LeDuc Charles A. , Guo Jiancheng , Wilson Ashley , Mills Ashley , Glassberg Kenneth , Rotterdam Heidi , Sepulveda Antonia R. , Zeng Wenqi , Chung Wendy K. , Anyane-Yeboa Kwame
Published: May 2015

Objective: To identify the molecular basis for prenatally suspected cases of megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome (MMIHS) (MIM 249210) in 3 independent families with clinical and radiographic evidence of MMIHS. Methods: Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing of the ACTG2 gene. Results: We identified a novel heterozygous de novo missense variant in ACTG2 c.770G>A (p.Arg257His) encoding γ-2 smooth muscle actin (ACTG2) in 2 siblings with MMIHS, suggesting gonadal mosaicism of one of the parents. Two additional de novo missense variants (p.Arg257Cys and p.Arg178His) in ACTG2 were identified in 2 additional MMHIS patients. All of our patients had evidence of fetal megacystis and a normal or slightly increased amniotic fluid volume. Additional findings included bilateral renal hydronephrosis, an enlarged fetal stomach, and transient dilated bowel loops. ACTG2 immunostaining of the intestinal tissue showed an altered muscularis propria, a markedly thinned longitudinal muscle layer, and a reduced amount and abnormal distribution of ACTG2. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that de novo mutations in ACTG2 are a cause of fetal megacystis in MMIHS and that gonadal mosaicism may be present in a subset of cases. These findings have implications for the counseling of families with a diagnosis of fetal megacystis with a preserved amniotic fluid volume and associated gastrointestinal findings.
Coil Embolization of Wide-Neck Bifurcation Aneurysms Using a Single-Balloon Microcatheter
Authors: Mehta Sonal , Hussain Syed I. , Edgell Randall C.
Published: May 2015

Background: Coil embolization of wide-neck cerebral aneurysms frequently requires stent or balloon assistance. Such approaches to coil embolization increase the procedural complexity, adding risk and cost. Objective: To describe a series of coil embolization procedures performed using a single-balloon microcatheter to treat wide-neck aneurysms and establish the safety, feasibility and efficacy of this technique. Methods: A retrospective review was performed to identify cases in which the Ascent balloon (Codman Neurovascular, Raynham, Mass., USA) was used as a single-balloon microcatheter for aneurysm coil embolization at two institutions. Clinical, demographic and angiographic data were obtained, and aneurysm volumes as well as packing densities (PD) were calculated. Results: Eight cerebral aneurysms were treated using this technique. Six of these were unruptured. The aneurysms had an average neck diameter of 3.7 mm, and the maximum dimension ranged from 5 to 11 mm, with a mean of 7.5 mm. The mean aspect ratio was 2.07. The mean volume of the aneurysms was 180.38 mm3. The average PD achieved in these 8 aneurysms was 41.79%. Complete occlusion with coil embolization [Raymond-Roy Occlusion Classification (RROC) 1] was achieved in all cases except one, where a small residual was left deliberately and the occlusion grade was RROC 2. There were no intraprocedural complications. Conclusion: This initial experience demonstrates the feasibility and immediate outcomes of a single-balloon microcatheter technique in coil embolization of wide-neck cerebral aneurysms. This technique may be used to achieve a high PD, comparable to that obtained with stent-assisted coiling or coiling alone, while avoiding permanent stent placement and potentially reducing thromboembolic complications.
Effect of Ambroxol and Beclomethasone on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Nitrosative Stress in Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ricciardolo Fabio L.M. , Sorbello Valentina , Benedetto Sabrina , Paleari Davide
Published: May 2015

Background: Nitrosative stress is involved in different airway diseases. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces neutrophil-related cytokine release and nitrosative stress in human bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B) cells alone or with human polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs). Ambroxol protects against oxidative stress, and beclomethasone dipropionate is an anti-inflammatory drug. Objectives: We evaluated the ability of ambroxol and/or beclomethasone dipropionate to inhibit LPS-induced expression/release of RANTES, IL-8, inducible NO synthase (iNOS), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and 3-nitrotyrosine (3-NT: nitrosative stress biomarker) in BEAS-2B ± PMNs stimulated with LPS (1 μg/ml). Methods: The effect of ambroxol and/or beclomethasone dipropionate on IL-8, RANTES and iNOS levels was assessed by Western blot analysis; IL-8, MPO and 3-NT levels were measured by ELISA. Cell viability was assessed by the trypan blue exclusion test. Results: In BEAS-2B alone, LPS (at 12 h) increased RANTES/iNOS expression and IL-8 levels (p < 0.001). Ambroxol suppressed LPS-induced RANTES expression and IL-8 release (p < 0.001), whilst inhibiting iNOS expression (p < 0.05). Beclomethasone dipropionate had no effect on RANTES but halved iNOS expression and IL-8 release. Coculture of BEAS-2B with PMNs stimulated IL-8, MPO and 3-NT production (p < 0.001), potentiated by LPS (p < 0.001). Ambroxol and beclomethasone dipropionate inhibited LPS-stimulated IL-8, MPO and 3-NT release (p < 0.05). Ambroxol/beclomethasone dipropionate combination potentiated the inhibition of IL-8 and 3-NT production in BEAS-2B with PMNs (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Ambroxol and/or beclomethasone dipropionate inhibited nitrosative stress and the release of neutrophilic inflammatory products in vitro. Conclusion: The additive effect of ambroxol and beclomethasone dipropionate on IL-8 and 3-NT inhibition suggests new therapeutic options in the treatment of neutrophil-related respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and respiratory infections.
Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Immunocytochemistry on Cell-Transferred Cytologic Smears of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Chen , Randolph Melissa L. , Jones Kelly J. , Cramer Harvey M. , Cheng Liang , Wu Howard H.
Published: May 2015

Background: Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) immunohistochemical staining on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue or cell blocks (CB) has been reported as an effective alternative to fluorescence hybridization in situ (FISH) for the detection of ALK gene rearrangement. However, CB frequently lack adequate cellularity even when the direct smears are cellular. This study aims to assess the utility of ALK immunocytochemical (ICC) staining on direct smears using the cell transfer (CT) technique for the detection of ALK rearrangement. Methods: Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cases of lung adenocarcinoma in which the ALK status had been determined by FISH on CB or a concurrent biopsy were identified. ICC staining for ALK was performed on alcohol-fixed Papanicolaou-stained direct smears using the CT technique. ALK immunoreactivity was evaluated using a modified semiquantitative scale. Results were compared with those of FISH. Results: A total of 47 FNA specimens were included. Five of 7 FISH-positive cases showed positive ALK ICC staining (71.4%), and 39 of 40 FISH-negative cases were negative on ALK ICC staining (97.5%). The overall correlation between ALK ICC and FISH was 93.6%. Conclusion: ICC performed on FNA smears using the CT technique is an alternative method for the assessment of ALK rearrangement, especially when CB lack adequate cellularity.
The Presence of Intra- or Subretinal Fluid during the Loading Phase in the Treatment of Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration with Intravitreal Ranibizumab Assessed by Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Ebneter Andreas , Gekkiev Boris , Chanana Bhuvan , Wolf Sebastian , Zinkernagel Martin S.
Published: May 2015

Purpose: To assess intra- and subretinal fluid during the loading phase with intravitreal ranibizumab in exudative age-related macular degeneration and to quantify the accuracy of crosshair scan spectral-domain optical coherence tomography with regard to retinal fluid. Methods: This is a retrospective study of 31 treatment-naive patients who received 3 monthly intravitreal ranibizumab injections. Visual acuity and the presence of retinal fluid were assessed at each visit using volume and crosshair scan protocols. Results: Visual acuity improved and central retinal thickness decreased significantly during the loading phase. However, retinal fluid persisted in two thirds of the patients. The accuracy of the crosshair scan to detect fluid was 93%. Conclusions: A substantial proportion of eyes had persistent fluid after 3 months of ranibizumab injections. However, visual improvement was independent of residual fluid. Message: Crosshair scans detect relevant collections of retinal fluid accurately and may be sufficient in daily clinical practice.
Recurrent Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus in a Patient with Coffin-Lowry Syndrome
Authors: Gschwind Markus , Foletti Giovanni , Baumer Alessandra , Bottani Armand , Novy Jan
Published: May 2015

Coffin-Lowry syndrome (CLS) is a rare neurodevelopmental condition caused by heterogeneous mutations in the RPS6KA3 gene on the X chromosome, leading to severe intellectual disability and dysmorphism in men, while women are carriers and only weakly affected. CLS is well known for stimulus-induced drop episodes; however, epilepsy is not commonly reported in this condition. We report on a CLS patient presenting with recurrent episodes of nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) with generalized epileptic activity, for which investigations did not find any other cause than the patient's genetic condition. This case underlines that the possibility of nonconvulsive epileptic seizures and status epilepticus should, therefore, be considered in those patients. The treatable diagnosis of NCSE may easily be overlooked, as symptoms can be unspecific.
Achalasia in a Patient with Polyglandular Autoimmune Syndrome Type II
Authors: Amr Bashar S. , Mamillapalli Chaitanya
Published: May 2015

Achalasia is a rare disease characterized by aperistalsis of the esophageal body and failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax. The etiology of this disease remains unknown. Polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type II is a well-identified disease characterized by the occurrence of autoimmune Addison's disease in combination with autoimmune thyroid disease and/or type 1 diabetes mellitus. We report a case that suggests autoimmunity and immunogenicity as a probable contributing factor for association of these two rare disorders.
Primulina porphyrea (Gesneriaceae), a new species from southern Hunan, China
Authors: Li Ming , Yu Xun-Lin
Published: May 2015

A new species of Gesneriaceae, Primulina porphyrea, is described and illustrated from southern Hunan, China. The new species resembles P. polycephala and P. yangshuoensis in leaf blade shape and indumentum of the plants, but it can be easily distinguished by having long petiole and purple leaf abaxial surface, purple corolla lobes and yellow corolla tube with several reddish-purple stripes, dark yellow filaments, and 3 staminodes. It flowers from May to August.
Passiflora echinasteris: a new species of subgenus Passiflora, series Serratifoliae (Passifloraceae) from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Koch Ana Kelly , De Rezende Cardoso André Luiz , Ilkiu-Borges Anna Luiza
Published: May 2015

Passiflora echinasteris from a secondary vegetation area on the Great Curve of the Xingu River, in the Brazilian Amazon, is newly described. It belongs to the series Serratifoliae with three other Brazilian species. The new species is illustrated and its affinities with related species are discussed, and a key to the Brazilian species of the series is provided.
Ministry to the Dying as a Learning Encounter
Authors: Nighswonger Carl A.
Published: May 2015

Dying patients are teachers who may help us understand the unique and dynamic nature of the walk through the Valley of the Shadow. This “walk” is experienced through a series of dramas which lead to the fulfillment of one's pilgrimage in either peace, or forlornness. These dramas are: The Drama of Shock; The Drama of Emotion; The Drama of Negotiation; the Drama of Cognition; The Drama of Commitment; The Drama of Completion.
Attitudes among Clergy and Lawyers toward Euthanasia
Authors: Preston Caroline E. , Horton John
Published: May 2015

The attitudes toward euthanasia of one hundred clergymen and one hundred and four lawyers in the Seattle area were examined through the use of an instrument questioning their agreement or disagreement with statements on euthanasia. The clergymen and lawyers in this sample indicated their willingness to share in decisions concerning the conditions of death for church members and clients, and/or their reluctance to relegate such decisions to the convictions of physicians alone.
On Saying NO to People: A Pastoral Letter
Authors: Close Henry T.
Published: May 2015

A major part of a pastor's job is to teach. He teaches people what life is like and what they can realistically expect from life. He offers his insights about what people are like, what relationships are like, what groups are like, what God is like; and suggests ways to cope with difficulties and to live a more satisfying life. This pastoral task is usually embodied in sermons. But at times the vehicle of a pastoral letter, an epistle, has been employed to teach about a Christian truth and its relevance to specific situations.

Pastors in a variety of settings can find unique opportunities for this kind of teaching. The example I am offering here had its roots in a focused psychotherapy group in a mental health center. In this group patients were asked to state some specific options in living that they wanted to learn. The two most frequently stated were: (1) I want to learn to say NO to people, to be able to stand up for myself; and (2) I want to learn how to forgive myself.

The following paper is addressed to the first of these concerns. It has been mimeographed and given (or read) to lots of people who have consistently commented on its helpfulness. I would suggest that papers like this can be an important part of a pastoral ministry in almost any context.
Peership with the Supervisor as a Criterion for Advanced CPE
Authors: Powell Robert Z.
Published: May 2015

In this paper I suggest that the CPE student's ability to move toward peership with his supervisor is a vital criterion for advanced CPE. I then define peership as I have experienced it in the student. Finally, I suggest several ways to encourage a student's movement toward peership with his supervisor.
Silence as Creative Therapy: A Contemplative Approach to Pastoral Care
Authors: Morgan John H.
Published: May 2015

The Quaker experience of the medium of silence for pastoral care has a long tradition, and, in a brief way, this paper attempts to point out the meaning of silence from the point of view of Quakers and the value of silence as a therapeutic medium for the pastoral leader.
Personal Growth in CPE
Authors: Geary Thomas F. , Geary Thomas F.
Published: May 2015

Personal growth (Self-Actualization) as an effect of Clinical Pastoral Education was investigated. 101 subjects participated. The Personal Orientation Inventory and the Christie Self-Concept Inventory were given before and after the quarter, and, again, after one month. A demographic questionnaire and a limited number of personal interviews were used. Statistical results are favorable to the hypothesis that CPE is an effective procedure for fostering personal growth. This growth seems to diminish upon completion of the quarter, with the exception of the desire to be self-actualized which doesn't lessen over time.
Prayer in Pastoral Care: A Contribution from the Tradition of Spiritual Direction
Authors: Barry William A.
Published: May 2015

This article describes contemplative prayer and some of its results and suggests possible uses of such prayer in pastoral counseling.
Rethinking Compassion Fatigue Through the Lens of Professional Identity
Authors: Geoffrion Steve , Morselli Carlo , Guay Stéphane
Published: May 2015

Compassion fatigue is currently the dominant model in work-related stress studies that explain the consequences of caring for others on child-protection workers. Based on a deterministic approach, this model excludes the role of cognition a priori and a posteriori in the understanding of the impact of caregiving or providing social support. By integrating the notion of professional identity, this article adds a subjective perspective to the compassion fatigue model allowing for the consideration of positive outcomes and takes into account the influence of stress caused by accountability. Mainly, it is argued that meanings derived from identity and given to situations may protect or accelerate the development of compassion fatigue or compassion satisfaction. To arrive at this proposition, the notions of compassion fatigue and identity theory are first reviewed. These concepts are then articulated around four work-related stressors specific to child-protection work. In light of this exercise, it is argued that professional identity serves as a subjective interpretative framework that guides the understanding of work-related situations. Therefore, compassion fatigue is not only a simple reaction to external stimuli. It is influenced by meanings given to the situation. Furthermore, professional identity modulates the impact of compassion fatigue on psychological well-being. Practice, policy, and research implications in light of these findings are also discussed.
Childhood Maltreatment and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Choi Karmel W. , Sikkema Kathleen J.
Published: May 2015

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) compromise maternal and child well-being and may be influenced by traumatic experiences across the life course. A potent and common form of trauma is childhood maltreatment, but its specific impact on PMADs is not well understood. A systematic review was undertaken to synthesize empirical literature on the relationship between maternal histories of childhood maltreatment and PMADs. Of the 876 citations retrieved, 35 reports from a total of 26,239 participants met inclusion criteria, documenting substantial rates of childhood maltreatment and PMADs. Robust trends of association were observed between childhood maltreatment and perinatal depression, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder, but findings for anxiety were less consistent. Examining multivariate results suggested that childhood maltreatment predicts PMADs above and beyond sociodemographic, psychiatric, perinatal, and psychosocial factors, but may also be partially mediated by variables such as later victimization and moderated by protective early relationships. Future research should test mediating and moderating pathways using prospective cohorts, expanding to cross-cultural settings and other disorder outcomes. Treatment and prevention of childhood maltreatment and its sequelae may help mitigate risk for perinatal psychopathology and its impact on maternal and child outcomes.
The Use of ASCII Graphics in Roguelikes
Authors: Johnson Mark R.
Published: May 2015

This article explores the semiotics of the “roguelike” genre. Most roguelikes reject contemporary advances in graphical technology and instead present their worlds, items, and creatures as American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) characters. This article first considers why this unusual graphical style has endured over time and argues that it is an aesthetic construction of nostalgia that positions roguelikes within a clear history of gameplay philosophies that challenge the prevailing contemporary assumptions of role-playing games. It second notes that the semantic code for understanding the ASCII characters in each and every roguelike is different and explores the construction of these codes, how players decode them, and the potential difficulties in such decodings. The article then combines these to explore how such visuals represent potential new ground in the study of game semiotics.
How Can Intergroup Interaction Be Bad If Intergroup Contact Is Good? Exploring and Reconciling an Apparent Paradox in the Science of Intergroup Relations
Authors: MacInnis Cara C. , Page-Gould Elizabeth
Published: May 2015

The outcomes of social interactions among members of different groups (e.g., racial groups, political groups, sexual orientation groups) have long been of interest to psychologists. Two related literatures on the topic have emerged—the intergroup interaction literature and the intergroup contact literature—in which divergent conclusions have been reported. Intergroup interaction is typically found to have negative effects tied to intergroup bias, producing heightened stress, intergroup anxiety, or outgroup avoidance, whereas intergroup contact is typically found to have positive effects tied to intergroup bias, predicting lower intergroup anxiety and lower prejudice. We examine these paradoxical findings, proposing that researchers contributing to the two literatures are examining different levels of the same phenomenon and that methodological differences can account for the divide between the literatures. Further, we introduce a mathematical model by which the findings of the two literatures can be reconciled. We believe that adopting this model will streamline thinking in the field and will generate integrative new research in which investigators examine how a person’s experiences with diversity unfold.
On the Applied Implications of the “Verbal Overshadowing Effect”
Authors: Mickes Laura , Wixted John T.
Published: May 2015

Schooler and Engstler-Schooler (1990) found that participants who wrote out a description of the perpetrator’s face after watching a simulated crime video were subsequently less likely to identify that perpetrator from a photo lineup compared to participants in a control condition (i.e., the correct ID rate was reduced). The first registered replication report in Perspectives on Psychological Science confirmed this verbal overshadowing effect (Alogna et al., 2014). Does this result indicate a reduced ability to recognize the person who was verbally described, or does it instead reflect more conservative responding? The answer depends on the still unknown likelihood of identifying an innocent suspect from a lineup (the false ID rate). Assuming the reduced correct ID rate does reflect memory impairment, should the legal system be advised to give less weight to a suspect identification if the witness previously provided a verbal description of the perpetrator? Intuitively, the answer is “yes,” but without knowing the false ID rate, it is unclear if a suspect identification following a verbal description should be given less weight or more weight. This is true even if the correct and false ID rates show that verbal descriptions impair memory. In our view, psychologists should withhold giving advice to the legal system about the effect of verbal descriptions on suspect identifications until the issue is investigated by including lineups that contain an innocent suspect.
Identifying and Cultivating Superforecasters as a Method of Improving Probabilistic Predictions
Authors: Mellers Barbara , Stone Eric , Murray Terry , Minster Angela , Rohrbaugh Nick , Bishop Michael , Chen Eva , Baker Joshua , Hou Yuan , Horowitz Michael , Ungar Lyle , Tetlock Philip
Published: May 2015

Across a wide range of tasks, research has shown that people make poor probabilistic predictions of future events. Recently, the U.S. Intelligence Community sponsored a series of forecasting tournaments designed to explore the best strategies for generating accurate subjective probability estimates of geopolitical events. In this article, we describe the winning strategy: culling off top performers each year and assigning them into elite teams of superforecasters. Defying expectations of regression toward the mean 2 years in a row, superforecasters maintained high accuracy across hundreds of questions and a wide array of topics. We find support for four mutually reinforcing explanations of superforecaster performance: (a) cognitive abilities and styles, (b) task-specific skills, (c) motivation and commitment, and (d) enriched environments. These findings suggest that superforecasters are partly discovered and partly created—and that the high-performance incentives of tournaments highlight aspects of human judgment that would not come to light in laboratory paradigms focused on typical performance.
Scientific Disintegrity as a Public Bad
Authors: Engel Christoph
Published: May 2015

In this article, I argue that scientific dishonesty essentially results from an incentive problem; I do so using a standard economic model—the public bad. Arguably, at least in the short run, most scientists would increase their personal utility by being sloppy with scientific standards. Yet, if they do, it becomes more difficult for all scientists to make their voice heard in society, to convince policy makers to assign public funds to academia, and to lead fulfilling academic lives. The nature of the ensuing governance problem (and appropriate policy intervention) hinges on the definition of scientists’ utility function. The policy problem is less grave if society attaches disproportionally more weight to severe or widespread violations and if individual scientists do not precisely know in advance when they will quit their academic lives. If most scientists internalize most scientific standards, then the problem is alleviated. However, internalization is immaterial if honorable scientists dislike that others advance their careers by violating those standards. Sanctions are helpful, even if relatively mild. However, it is important to also punish those who do not punish others for breaking the rules or, alternatively, to put some centralized mechanism for vigilance and enforcement into place.
Plasma complement factor H is associated with disease activity of patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis
Authors: Chen Su-Fang , Wang Feng-Mei , Li Zhi-Ying , Yu Feng , Zhao Ming-Hui , Chen Min
Published: May 2015

Introduction

Increasing evidences have demonstrated that activation of alternative complement pathway plays an important role in the pathogenesis of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). The current study aimed to investigate the association of complement factor H (CFH), a key regulator of the alternative complement pathway, with the disease activity of AAV.

Methods

Plasma CFH levels were measured in 82 patients with myeloperoxidase (MPO)-AAV in active stage. Of the 82 patients, plasma CFH levels of 27 patients were longitudinally measured. Serum anti-CFH autoantibodies were screened in AAV patients. Circulating complement activation profiles including C4d, Bb, C3a, C5a and soluble C5b-9 of AAV patients in active stage were further detected. Associations between plasma CFH levels and clinicopathological parameters as well as the prognosis were analyzed.

Results

Plasma CFH levels were significantly lower in active AAV patients compared with AAV patients in remission and normal controls. Correlation analysis showed that plasma CFH levels inversely correlated with initial serum creatinine, Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS), proportion of total crescents and cellular crescents in renal specimens, and circulating levels of C3a, C5a and Sc5b-9, meanwhile positively correlated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), hemoglobin levels and circulating levels of C3. Moreover, multivariate survival analysis revealed that plasma CFH levels were independently associated with composite outcome of death or end stage renal disease (ESRD) in AAV patients, after adjusting for age, gender, hemoglobin level and urinary protein (P = 0.03, HR 0.85, 95 % CI 0.73–0.98) or adjusting for age, gender, total crescents (%) and urinary protein (P = 0.03, HR 0.85, 95 % CI 0.73–0.98), while not as an independent predictor after adjusting for age, gender, serum creatinine and urinary protein (P = 0.57, HR 0.96, 95 % CI 0.83–1.11).

Conclusion

In conclusion, plasma CFH levels are associated with disease activity, and, to some extent, associated with composite outcomes of patients with MPO-ANCA-associated vasculitis.
Mapping hypersensitivity/allergic diseases in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)‐11: cross‐linking terms and unmet needs
Authors: Tanno Luciana Kase , Calderon Moises , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Demoly Pascal ,   EAACI/WAO Task force of a Global Classification of Hypersensitivity/Allergic diseases
Published: May 2015

Background

With the aim of actively contributing to the ongoing 11th International Classification of Diseases (ICD) revision, an international collaboration led by the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) has decided to revise the classification of hypersensitivity/allergic diseases and to validate it for ICD‐11 by crowdsourcing the allergist community. However, understanding that the construction of a classification was necessary but not sufficient, we developed a mapping strategy in the attempt to better fit it to the ICD‐11 linearization structure.

Methods

The cross‐linking terms process has been constructed based on an algorithm in which we prioritized the pre‐coordination, followed by the post‐coordination when the first step was not possible. If the above strategies failed to identify the entries, the conditions were ruled as “non specific terms”, “no code fit properly” or “missing terms”.

Results

Amongst the 652 terms distributed in 5 main groups of the Hypersensitivity/Allergic Diseases classification, 169 terms fit directly the codes listed in the ICD‐11 beta draft (October 2014 version), 26 were considered as “nonspecific term”, 21 were linked to the Foundation by Index, 7 were recorded as inclusions and 2 were cited just in the definition of the condition. The post‐coordination was possible for 97 terms, mainly for drug hypersensitivity conditions. We noticed a considerable number of allergen references missing.

Conclusion

The proposed strategy of cross‐linking terms and the results of this process can actively contribute to updating the hypersensitivity and allergic conditions classification in the ICD‐11 beta revision and underlines the need for either a new chapter in ICD‐11 possibly entitled Hypersensitivity / Allergic Disorders or at the very least the aggregation of all such diseases under the “Diseases of Immune System” chapter in order for the overlaps to be double parented to the appropriate ‘system’ chapters.
Straightforward Synthesis of HOMSi Reagents via sp2 C–H Silylation
Authors: Minami Yasunori , Komiyama Takeshi , Hiyama Tamejiro
Published: May 2015

Straightforward C–H silylation of heteroarenes and alkenes was found to provide efficient access to organo-HOMSi reagents as stable silicon reagents for cross-coupling. Various heteroarenes and terminal alkenes were silylated to show the versatility of the reaction. This method was applied in double silylation reactions to give bisHOMSi reagents. The silylation products could be used in the cross-coupling reaction with haloarenes easily.
Thermoresponsive Liquid Marbles Prepared with Low Melting Point Powder
Authors: Nakai Keita , Fujii Syuji , Nakamura Yoshinobu , Yusa Shin-ichi
Published: May 2015

Thermoresponsive liquid marbles were prepared from water and 1-bromo-3-fluoro-4-iodobenzene (BFI) powder with a melting point of 46.5 °C. The liquid marble can be floated on the surface of bulk water at room temperature, which is lower than the melting point of BFI. When the temperature of bulk water was increased above the melting point, the liquid marble disintegrated to leak the interior water to bulk water. Heating can be applied as a trigger of a chemical reaction between the interior reactant and another reactant in bulk water.
¿Qué ha pasado con el agua en el nuevo estado plurinacional de Bolivia?
Authors: Vargas Gamboa Nataly Viviana
Published: May 2015

La protección del derecho al agua ha sido el principal objetivo de los más emblemáticos movimientos sociales de los últimos tiempos en Bolivia. Su continua violación ha ocasionado un quiebre en la dinámica social, propiciando un con?icto que ha derivado en el empoderamiento de las clases populares frente a los abusos del gobierno. Dichos movimientos sociales se han movilizado no solo por el cese de la violación puntual del derecho al agua, sino que conscientes de su poder han ido más allá y engendraron el germen de la Asamblea Constituyente, buscando reformar completamente el texto constitucional e incluir en él un amplio espectro de protección para el derecho al agua. Ello ha derivado en el replanteamiento de una serie de políticas por parte del sector público para la realización de este derecho, motivando una fuerte inversión y una gran protección jurisdiccional. Sin embargo, los con?ictos de acceso y protección aún persisten, siendo una gran fuente de preocupación por parte de la población.
Cultivating Moina macrocopa Straus in different media using carotenogenic yeast Rhodotorula
Authors: Kushniryk Olga , Khudyi Oleksii , Khuda Lidiia , Kolman Ryszard , Marchenko Mykhailo
Published: May 2015

The possibility of using carotenogenic yeast from the genus Rhodotorula as food substrate was studied during the cultivation of Moina macrocopa. The results showed that replacing traditional food substrates during the cultivation of the live fish food M. macrocopa resulted in improved characteristics that were superior to the alternative. Using carotenogenic yeast Rhodotorula glutinis (Fres.) Harrison to stimulate carotenoid accumulation in live feed is better than R. rubra (Demme) Lodder. The optimal duration of enriching M. macrocopa with carotenoids was four days when using various types of yeast capable of carotenogenesis. Replacing the standard medium for culturing M. macrocopa with the alternative medium was less expensive. Breeding live feed on recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) post-production water was proven to be effective.
FE65: Roles beyond amyloid precursor protein processing
Authors: Chow Wan Ning Vanessa , Cheung Hei Nga Maggie , Li Wen , Lau Kwok-Fai
Published: May 2015

FE65 is a brain-enriched, developmentally regulated adaptor protein that was first identified as a binding partner of amyloid precursor protein (APP), an important molecule in Alzheimer’s disease. FE65 possesses three protein interaction domains, including an N-terminal WW domain and two C-terminal phosphotyrosine-binding (PTB) domains. It is capable of mediating the assembly of multimolecular complexes. Although initial work reveals its roles in APP processing and gene transactivation, increasing evidence suggests that FE65 participates in more diverse biological processes than originally anticipated. This article discusses the role of FE65 in signal transduction during cell stress and protein turnover through the ubiquitin-proteasome system and in various neuronal processes, including neurogenesis, neuronal migration and positioning, neurite outgrowth, synapse formation and synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory.
Oncogene-dependent survival of highly transformed cancer cells under conditions of extreme centrifugal force – implications for studies on extracellular vesicles
Authors: Lee Tae Hoon , Chennakrishnaiah Shilpa , Rak Janusz
Published: May 2015

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes, are a subject of intense interest due to their emission by cancer cells and role in intercellular communication. Earlier reports suggested that oncogenes, such as RAS, MET or EGFR, drive cellular vesiculation. Interestingly, these oncogenes may also traffic between cells using the EV-mediated emission and uptake processes. One of the main tools in the analysis of EVs are ultracentrifugation protocols designed to efficiently separate parental cells from vesicles through a sequence of steps involving increasing g-force. Here we report that ultracentrifugationonly EV preparations from highly transformed cancer cells, driven by the overexpression of oncogenic H-ras (RAS-3) and v-src (SRC-3), may contain clonogenic cancer cells, while preparations of normal or less aggressive human cell lines are generally free from such contamination. Introduction of a filtration step eliminates clonogenic cells from the ultracentrifugate. The survival of RAS-3 and SRC-3 cells under extreme conditions of centrifugal force (110,000 g) is oncogene-induced, as EV preparations of their parental non-tumourigenic cell line (IEC-18) contain negligible numbers of clonogenic cells. Moreover, treatment of SRC-3 cells with the SRC inhibitor (PP2) markedly reduces the presence of such cells in the unfiltered ultracentrifugate. These observations enforce the notion that EV preparations require careful filtration steps, especially in the case of material produced by highly transformed cancer cell types. We also suggest that oncogenic transformation may render cells unexpectedly resistant to extreme physical forces, which may affect their biological properties in vivo.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the STAT3 gene influence AITD susceptibility, thyroid autoantibody levels, and IL6 and IL17 secretion
Authors: Kotkowska Agnieszka , Sewerynek Ewa , Domańska Daria , Pastuszak-Lewandoska Dorota , Brzeziańska Ewa
Published: May 2015

STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) is an important cellular effector in the Jak/STAT signaling pathway, which plays a pivotal role in human immune system regulation, mediating the effect of different cytokines. In the present study, we assessed the correlation between STAT3 polymorphisms (rs3816769 C>T and rs744166 A>G) and risk of the autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITDs) Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) and Graves’ disease (GD) in the Polish population. Moreover, we evaluated the association of polymorphisms with the thyroid autoantibody levels (TPOAb, TgAb, TRAb) and the correlation between circulating proinflammatory IL6 and IL17 cytokines and thyroid autoantibody levels. The study included 71 AITD patients with HT (n = 39) or GD (n = 32) and a control group (n = 40). DNA SNP genotyping was performed using TaqMan probes. Serum levels of thyroid autoantibodies, IL6 and IL17 were measured according to enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL) assay. Allele A of STAT3 SNP rs744166 A>G was significantly more frequent in both HT and GD patients, while allele G was significantly more frequent in the control group. Similarly, allele C and CC genotype of STAT3 SNP rs3816769 C>T were significantly more frequent in the control group in comparison to HT and GD patients. Significantly higher TgAb median values were associated with CT rs3816769 genotype in HT patients. Serum levels of IL6 and IL17 positively correlated with TPOAb in the HT group. Serum level of IL6 positively correlated with TPOAb in the AITD group. Both studied polymorphisms seem to play a significant role in susceptibility to AITD (HT and GD). STAT3 SNPs may influence TAb level in AITD patients.
A hygrothermo-mechanical model for wood: Part B. Parametric studies and application to wood welding
Authors: Abbasion Saeed , Moonen Peter , Carmeliet Jan , Derome Dominique
Published: May 2015

The correct prediction of the behavior of wood components undergoing environmental loading or industrial process requires that the hygric, thermal and mechanical (HTM) behavior of wood are considered in a coupled manner. A fully coupled poromechanical approach has been used to perform a parametric study on wood HTM behavior, and the results have been validated with neutron imaging measurements on a moist wood specimen exposed to high temperature. Further, HTM behavior of wood during welding has been simulated by the model. For such a simulation, proper material properties are needed, as some of them, for example thermal conductivity, have a significant influence on the local and temporal behavior of the material.
Biogenesis of mitochondrial outer membrane proteins, problems and diseases
Authors: Ellenrieder Lars , Mårtensson Christoph U. , Becker Thomas
Published: May 2015

Proteins of the mitochondrial outer membrane are synthesized as precursors on cytosolic ribosomes and sorted via internal targeting sequences to mitochondria. Two different types of integral outer membrane proteins exist: proteins with a transmembrane β-barrel and proteins embedded by a single or multiple α-helices. The import pathways of these two types of membrane proteins differ fundamentally. Precursors of β-barrel proteins are first imported across the outer membrane via the translocase of the outer membrane (TOM complex). The TOM complex is coupled to the sorting and assembly machinery (SAM complex), which catalyzes folding and membrane insertion of these precursors. The mitochondrial import machinery (MIM complex) promotes import of proteins with multiple α-helical membrane spans. Depending on the topology precursors of proteins with a single α-helical membrane anchor are imported via several distinct routes. We summarize current models and open questions of biogenesis of mitochondrial outer membrane proteins and discuss the impact of malfunctions of protein sorting on the development of diseases.
Ribbentrop und die deutsche Außenpolitik 1934–1936
Authors: Wolz Alexander
Published: May 2015

Joachim von Ribbentrop, Reichsaußenminister 1938–1945, verkörperte alle Eigenschaften, die für den „Verfall der Diplomatie“ im „Dritten Reich“ verantwortlich waren: sein tiefer Hass gegenüber England, der jede Möglichkeit des friedlichen Ausgleichs verschüttete; die blinde Ergebenheit gegenüber dem „Führer“, die alle Alternativen zu Hitlers halsbrecherischen Kurs unterband; und schließlich die Anwendung von Drohung und Erpressung als wesentliche Elemente einer Außenpolitik, die ab Sommer 1938 bewusst auf den großen Krieg zusteuerte.

Doch der Einfluss Ribbentrops auf die deutsche Politik reicht bis in das Jahr 1934 zurück, als er als inoffizieller Abgesandter zwischen Berlin und London zu vermitteln suchte. Eine Untersuchung dieser Zeit muss eine Neubewertung von Ribbentrops Konzeptionen zur Folge haben. Es wird deutlich, dass Ribbentrop intensiv an einem deutsch-britischen Ausgleich arbeitete, der Rüstungs- und Sicherheitsfragen gleichermaßen klären sollte. Ribbentrops Vorstellungen einer zweiseitigen Rüstungsvereinbarung, mit der Berlin und London ihre Land-, See- und Luftstreitkräfte begrenzten, sollte die Grundlage für Hitlers Bündnistraum bilden; Ribbentrops Bereitschaft, einen Garantiepakt für Belgien und weitere Sicherheitsverträge wie einen Ostpakt abzuschließen, trug den Sorgen des Auswärtigen Amtes Rechnung, Deutschland nicht ohne einen „vertraglichen Zustand“ dastehen zu lassen.

Damit bildete Ribbentrops Programm von 1935 eine Diagonale zwischen dem ideologischen „Programm“ Hitlers und den Konzeptionen der Diplomaten in der Wilhelmstraße. Aber schon damals zeichnete sich sein Scheitern ab, weil Ribbentrop unfähig war, die Grundpfeiler der britischen Festlandspolitik in seine politischen Planspiele einzubeziehen.
Stability criterion and its calculation for sail-assisted ship
Authors: Hu Yihuai , Tang Juanjuan , Xue Shuye , Liu Shewen
Published: May 2015

Stability criterion and its calculation are the crucial issue in the application of sail-assisted ship. How- ever, there is at present no specific criterion and computational methods for the stability of sail-assisted ship. Based on the stability
A study on the effect of flat plate friction resistance on speed performance prediction of full scale
Authors: Park Dong-Woo
Published: May 2015

Flat plate friction lines hare been used in the process to estimate speed performance of full-scale ships in model tests. The results of the previous studies showed considerable differences in determining form factors depending on changes in plate friction lines and Reynolds numbers. These differences had a great influence on estimation of speed performance of full-scale ships. This study- was conducted in two parts. In the first part, the scale effect of the form factor depending on change in the Reynolds number was studied based on CFD, in connection with three kinds of friction resistance curves: the ITTC-1957, the curve proposed by Grigson (1993; 1996), and the curve developed by Katsui et al (2005). In the second part, change in the form factor by three kinds of

friction resistance curves was investigated based on model tests, and then the brake power and the revolution that were finally determined by expansion processes of full-scale ships. When three kinds of friction resistance curves were applied to each kind of ships, these were investigated: differences between resistance and self-propulsion components induced in the expansion processes of full-scale ships, correlation of effects between these components, and tendency of each kind of ships. Finally, what friction resistance curve was well consistent with results of test operation was examined per each kind of ships.
A Graphical Approximation to Generalization: Definitions and Diagrams
Authors: García Fernando Martel , Wantchekon Leonard
Published: May 2015

The fundamental problem of external validity is not to generalize from one experiment, so much as to experimentally test generalizable theories. That is, theories that explain the systematic variation of causal effects across contexts. Here we show how the graphical language of causal diagrams can be used in this endeavour. Specifically we show how generalization is a causal problem, how a causal approach is more robust than a purely predictive one, and how causal diagrams can be adapted to convey partial parametric information about interactions.