bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dysregulation of the MIRLET7/HMGA2 axis with methylation of the CDKN2A promoter in myeloproliferative neoplasms
Authors: Harada‐Shirado Kayo , Ikeda Kazuhiko , Ogawa Kazuei , Ohkawara Hiroshi , Kimura Hideo , Kai Tatsuyuki , Noji Hideyoshi , Morishita Soji , Komatsu Norio , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: September 2014

Overexpression of high mobility group AT‐hook 2 (Hmga2), which is negatively regulated by MIRLET7 micro RNAs through 3′‐untranslated region (3′UTR), causes proliferative haematopoiesis mimicking myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) and contributes to progression of myelofibrosis in mice. Thus, we investigated HMGA2 mRNA expression in 66 patients with MPNs including 23 polycythaemia vera (PV), 33 essential thrombocythaemia (ET) and 10 primary myelofibrosis (PMF). HMGA2 mRNA expression, especially variant 1 with 3′UTR that contains MIRLET7‐specific sites, rather than variant 2 lacking 3′UTR, is frequently deregulated due to decreased MIRLET7 expression in granulocytes from over 20% of PV and ET, and in either granulocytes or CD34+ cells from 100% of PMF. Patients with deregulated HMGA2 mRNA expression were significantly more likely to show splenomegaly, high serum lactate dehydrogenase values, and methylation of the CDKN2A promoter compared with other patients without deregulation of HMGA2. A histone deacetylase inhibitor, panobinostat, significantly increased MIRLET7 expression and reduced variant 1 of HMGA2 mRNA expression, but not variant 2, in both U937 cells and PMF‐derived CD34+ cells. Moreover, both panobinostat and small interfering RNA of HMGA2 demethylated the CDKN2A promoter in U937 cells. In conclusion, the frequently dysregulated MIRLET7/HMGA2 axis could be a therapeutic target in MPNs.
The return of metabolism: biochemistry and physiology of the pentose phosphate pathway
Authors: Stincone Anna , Prigione Alessandro , Cramer Thorsten , Wamelink Mirjam M. C. , Campbell Kate , Cheung Eric , Olin‐Sandoval Viridiana , Grüning Nana‐Maria , Krüger Antje , Tauqeer Alam Mohammad , Keller Markus A. , Breitenbach Michael , Brindle Kevin M. , Rabinowitz Joshua D. , Ralser Markus
Published: September 2014

The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is a fundamental component of cellular metabolism. ThePPPis important to maintain carbon homoeostasis, to provide precursors for nucleotide and amino acid biosynthesis, to provide reducing molecules for anabolism, and to defeat oxidative stress. ThePPPshares reactions with the Entner–Doudoroff pathway and Calvin cycle and divides into an oxidative and non‐oxidative branch. The oxidative branch is highly active in most eukaryotes and converts glucose 6‐phosphate into carbon dioxide, ribulose 5‐phosphate andNADPH. The latter function is critical to maintain redox balance under stress situations, when cells proliferate rapidly, in ageing, and for the ‘Warburg effect’ of cancer cells. The non‐oxidative branch instead is virtually ubiquitous, and metabolizes the glycolytic intermediates fructose 6‐phosphate and glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate as well as sedoheptulose sugars, yielding ribose 5‐phosphate for the synthesis of nucleic acids and sugar phosphate precursors for the synthesis of amino acids. Whereas the oxidativePPPis considered unidirectional, the non‐oxidative branch can supply glycolysis with intermediates derived from ribose 5‐phosphate andvice versa, depending on the biochemical demand. These functions require dynamic regulation of thePPPpathway that is achieved through hierarchical interactions between transcriptome, proteome and metabolome. Consequently, the biochemistry and regulation of this pathway, while still unresolved in many cases, are archetypal for the dynamics of the metabolic network of the cell. In this comprehensive article we review seminal work that led to the discovery and description of the pathway that date back now for 80 years, and address recent results about genetic and metabolic mechanisms that regulate its activity. These biochemical principles are discussed in the context ofPPPdeficiencies causing metabolic disease and the role of this pathway in biotechnology, bacterial and parasite infections, neurons, stem cell potency and cancer metabolism.
A randomized controlled trial comparing interim acrylic prostheses with and without cast metal base for immediate loading of dental implants in the edentulous mandible
Authors: Thomé Eloana , Lee Hyung Joo , Sartori Ivete Aparecida de Mattias , Trevisan Roseli Latenek , Luiz Jaques , Tiossi Rodrigo
Published: September 2014

Objectives

This randomized controlled trial used resonance frequency analysis (RFA) to assess the effects of the presence or absence of a cast rigid bar splinting multiple implants in the stability of immediately loaded implants.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐nine edentulous patients were randomly divided into two groups: G1 with full‐arch implant‐fixed prostheses and G2 with multiple implant splinting via acrylic resin denture bases. All implants were immediately loaded. RFA measurements assessed implant stability at three different times (T0 – at baseline, T1 – 4 months, and T2 – 8 months. Wilcoxon and Friedman tests and a multivariate model with repeated measures for longitudinal data were used for statistical comparison (α = 0.05).

Results

Twenty‐nine patients were assessed (G1 = 15 and G2 = 14). Implant and prostheses survival rates were 100% for both groups after the 8‐month observation period and no significant differences in the mean ISQ values were found at the different implant stability assessment times (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The different splinting protocols did not appear to affect implant stability during the 8‐month observation period.
Additive effects of climate change on connectivity between marine protected areas and larval supply to fished areas
Authors: Andrello Marco , Mouillot David , Somot Samuel , Thuiller Wilfried , Manel Stéphanie
Published: September 2014

Aim

To study the combined effects of climate change on connectivity between marine protected areas (MPAs) and larval supply to the continental shelf.

Location

The Mediterranean Sea, where sea surface temperatures are expected to strongly increase by the end of the 21st century, represents an archetypal situation with a denseMPAnetwork but resource overexploitation outside.

Methods

Using an individual‐based mechanistic model of larval transport, forced with an emission‐driven regional climate change scenario for the Mediterranean Sea, we explored the combined effects of changes in hydrodynamics, adult reproductive timing and larval dispersal on the connectivity amongMPAs and their ability to seed fished areas with larvae.

Results

We show that, over the period 1970–2099, larval dispersal distances would decrease by 10%, the continental shelf area seeded with larvae would decrease by 3% and the larval retention fraction would increase by 5%, resulting in higher concentration of larvae in smaller areas of the continental shelf. However, connectance within theMPAnetwork would increase by 5% as more northernMPAs would become suitable for reproduction with increasing temperatures. We also show that the effects of changes in adult reproductive timing and larval dispersal on connectivity patterns are additive.

Main conclusions

Climate change will influence connectivity and the effectiveness ofMPAnetworks, and should receive more attention in future conservation planning and large‐scale population dynamics.
Social media and disasters: a functional framework for social media use in disaster planning, response, and research
Authors: Houston J. Brian , Hawthorne Joshua , Perreault Mildred F. , Park Eun Hae , Goldstein Hode Marlo , Halliwell Michael R. , Turner McGowen Sarah E. , Davis Rachel , Vaid Shivani , McElderry Jonathan A. , Griffith Stanford A.
Published: September 2014

A comprehensive review of online, official, and scientific literature was carried out in 2012–13 to develop a framework of disaster social media. This framework can be used to facilitate the creation of disaster social media tools, the formulation of disaster social media implementation processes, and the scientific study of disaster social media effects. Disaster social media users in the framework include communities, government, individuals, organisations, and media outlets. Fifteen distinct disaster social media uses were identified, ranging from preparing and receiving disaster preparedness information and warnings and signalling and detecting disasters prior to an event to (re)connecting community members following a disaster. The framework illustrates that a variety of entities may utilise and produce disaster social media content. Consequently, disaster social media use can be conceptualised as occurring at a number of levels, even within the same disaster. Suggestions are provided on how the proposed framework can inform future disaster social media development and research.
Echocardiography and Heart Failure: A Glimpse of the Right Heart
Authors: Pleister Adam , Kahwash Rami , Haas Garrie , Ghio Stefano , Cittadini Antonio , Baliga Ragavendra R
Published: September 2014

The catastrophic consequences for patients in the settings of certain clinical conditions such as acute right ventricular infarction or massive pulmonary embolism with right heart failure illustrate the essential role that the right ventricle plays in sustaining life. With the development of more sophisticated diagnostic imaging technologies at the end of the last century and the dawn of this century, the importance of the right ventricle has been clearly demonstrated. The continued and evolving nature of our understanding of the right ventricle was emphasized in 2006, when the National Heart, Blood, and Lung Institute formed a working group focused on developing a better understanding of the right ventricle in both healthy and disease states. The objective of this review paper is to examine the right ventricle structure and function and describe the role of echocardiography in the evaluation of the right ventricle and right heart failure. Special focus will be on echocardiographic images and major society guidelines.
Notch1 activity in the olfactory bulb is odour‐dependent and contributes to olfactory behaviour
Authors: Brai Emanuele , Marathe Swananda , Zentilin Lorena , Giacca Mauro , Nimpf Johannes , Kretz Robert , Scotti Alessandra , Alberi Lavinia
Published: September 2014

Notch signalling plays an important role in synaptic plasticity, learning and memory functions in both Drosophila and rodents. In this paper, we report that this feature is not restricted to hippocampal networks but also involves the olfactory bulb (OB). Odour discrimination and olfactory learning in rodents are essential for survival. Notch1 expression is enriched in mitral cells of the mouse OB. These principal neurons are responsive to specific input odorants and relay the signal to the olfactory cortex. Olfactory stimulation activates a subset of mitral cells, which show an increase in Notch activity. In Notch1cKOKln mice, the loss of Notch1 in mitral cells affects the magnitude of the neuronal response to olfactory stimuli. In addition, Notch1cKOKln mice display reduced olfactory aversion to propionic acid as compared to wildtype controls. This indicates, for the first time, that Notch1 is involved in olfactory processing and may contribute to olfactory behaviour.
Headache cessation by an educational intervention in grammar schools: a cluster randomized trial
Authors: Albers L. , Heinen F. , Landgraf M. , Straube A. , Blum B. , Filippopulos F. , Lehmann S. , Mansmann U. , Berger U. , Akboga Y. , von Kries R.
Published: September 2014

Background and purpose

Headache is a common health problem in adolescents. There are a number of risk factors for headache in adolescents that are amenable to intervention. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of a low‐level headache prevention programme in the classroom setting to prevent these risk factors.

Methods

In all, 1674 students in 8th–10th grade at 12 grammar schools in greater Munich, Germany, were cluster randomized into intervention and control groups. A standardized 60‐min prevention lesson focusing on preventable risk factors for headache (physical inactivity, coffee consumption, alcohol consumption and smoking) and providing instructions on stress management and neck and shoulder muscle relaxation exercises was given in a classroom setting. Seven months later, students were reassessed. The main outcome parameter was headache cessation. Logistic regression models with random effects for cluster and adjustment for baseline risk factors were calculated.

Results

Nine hundred students (intervention group N = 450, control group N = 450) with headache at baseline and complete data for headache and confounders were included in the analysis. Headache cessation was observed in 9.78% of the control group compared with 16.22% in the intervention group (number needed to treat = 16). Accounting for cluster effects and confounders, the probability of headache cessation in the intervention group was 1.77 (95% confidence interval = [1.08; 2.90]) higher than in the control group. The effect was most pronounced in adolescents with tension‐type headache: odds ratio = 2.11 (95% confidence interval = [1.15; 3.80]).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the effectiveness of a one‐time, classroom‐based headache prevention programme.
A multisite controlled study of risk factors in pediatric psychogenic nonepileptic seizures
Authors: Plioplys Sigita , Doss Julia , Siddarth Prabha , Bursch Brenda , Falcone Tatiana , Forgey Marcy , Hinman Kyle , LaFrance W. Curt , Laptook Rebecca , Shaw Richard J. , Weisbrot Deborah M. , Willis Matthew D. , Caplan Rochelle
Published: September 2014

Objective

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) in youth are symptoms of a difficult to diagnose and treat conversion disorder. PNES is associated with high medical and psychiatric morbidity, but specific PNES risk factors in the pediatric population are not known. We examined if youth with PNES have a distinct biopsychosocial risk factor profile compared to their siblings and if the interrelationships between these risk factors differentiate the PNES probands from the sibling group.

Methods

This multisite study included 55 youth with a confirmed diagnosis of PNES (age range 8.6–18.4 years) and their 35 sibling controls (age range 8.6–18.1 years). A video EEG and psychiatric assessment confirmed the PNES diagnosis. Parents reported on each child's past and present medical/epilepsy, psychiatric, family, and educational history. Each child underwent a structured psychiatric interview, standardized cognitive and academic achievement testing, and completed self‐report coping, daily stress, adversities, and parental bonding questionnaires.

Results

Compared to their siblings, the PNES probands had significantly more lifetime comorbid medical, neurological (including epilepsy), and psychiatric problems; used more medications and intensive medical services; had more higher anxiety sensitivity, practiced solitary emotional coping, and experienced more lifetime adversities. A principal components analysis of these variables identified a somatopsychiatric, adversity, epilepsy, and cognitive component. The somatopsychiatric and adversity components differentiated the probands from the siblings, and were highly significant predictors of PNES with odds ratios of 15.1 (95% CI [3.4, 67.3], and 9.5 (95% CI [2.0, 45.7]), respectively. The epilepsy and cognitive components did not differentiate between the PNES and sibling groups.

Significance

These findings highlight the complex biopsychosocial and distinct vulnerability profile of pediatric PNES. They also underscore the need for screening the interrelated risk factors included in the somatopsychiatric and adversity components and subsequent mental health referral for confirmation of the diagnosis and treatment of youth with PNES.
Safety of a dedicated brain MRI protocol in patients with a vagus nerve stimulator
Authors: de Jonge Jeroen C. , Melis Gerrit I. , Gebbink Tineke A. , de Kort Gérard A. P. , Leijten Frans S. S.
Published: September 2014

Although implanted metallic devices constitute a relative contraindication to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning, the safety of brain imaging in a patient with a vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) is classified as “conditional,” provided that specific manufacturer guidelines are followed when a transmit and receive head coil is used at 1.5 or 3.0 Tesla. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of performing brain MRI scans in patients with the VNS. From September 2009 until November 2011, 101 scans were requested in 73 patients with the VNS in The Netherlands. Patients were scanned according to the manufacturer's guidelines. No patient reported any side effect, discomfort, or pain during or after the MRI scan. In one patient, a lead break was detected based on device diagnostics after the MRI‐scan. However, because no system diagnostics had been performed prior to MR scanning in this patient, it is unclear whether MR scanning was responsible for the lead break. The indication for most scans was epilepsy related. Twenty‐six scans (26%) were part of a (new) presurgical evaluation and could probably better have been performed prior to VNS implantation. Performing brain MRI scans in patients with an implanted VNS is safe when a modified MRI protocol is followed.
Premature mortality in poor health and low income adults with epilepsy
Authors: Kaiboriboon Kitti , Schiltz Nicholas K. , Bakaki Paul M. , Lhatoo Samden D. , Koroukian Siran M.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To examine mortality and causes of death (CODs) in socioeconomically disadvantaged persons with epilepsy (PWEs) in the United States.

Methods

We performed a retrospective open cohort analysis using Ohio Medicaid claims data between 1992 and 2008 to assess mortality and COD in 68,785 adult Medicaid beneficiaries with epilepsy. Case fatality (CF), mortality rates (MRs), standardized mortality ratios (SMRs), and years of potential life lost (YPLLs) were calculated. The SMRs were estimated to compare risk of death in PWEs with that in the general Medicaid population with and without disabilities. Proportionate mortality ratios (PMRs), YPLLs, and SMRs for specific COD were also obtained.

Results

There were 12,630 deaths in PWEs. CF was 18.4%, the age‐race‐sex adjusted MR was 18.6/1,000 person‐years (95% confidence interval [CI], 18.3–18.9). The SMR was 1.8 (95% CI, 1.8–1.9) when compared to the general Medicaid population, and was 1.4 (95% CI, 1.3–1.6) when compared to those with disabilities. The average YPLL was 16.9 years (range 1–47 years). Both epilepsy and comorbid conditions significantly contributed to premature mortality in PWEs. Cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and unintentional injuries were the most common COD and account for a large proportion of YPLLs. Deaths from epilepsy‐related causes occurred in about 10% of the cases.

Significance

Socioeconomically deprived PWEs, especially young adults, experience high mortality and die 17 years prematurely. The high mortality in Medicaid beneficiaries with epilepsy affirms that comorbid conditions and epilepsy play a crucial role in premature death. Management of comorbid conditions is, at a minimum, as important as epilepsy management, and therefore deserves more attention from physicians, particularly those who care for Medicaid beneficiaries with epilepsy.
Weighing the value of memory loss in the surgical evaluation of left temporal lobe epilepsy: A decision analysis
Authors: Akama‐Garren Elliot H. , Bianchi Matt T. , Leveroni Catherine , Cole Andrew J. , Cash Sydney S. , Westover M. Brandon
Published: September 2014

Objectives

Anterior temporal lobectomy is curative for many patients with disabling medically refractory temporal lobe epilepsy, but carries an inherent risk of disabling verbal memory loss. Although accurate prediction of iatrogenic memory loss is becoming increasingly possible, it remains unclear how much weight such predictions should have in surgical decision making. Here we aim to create a framework that facilitates a systematic and integrated assessment of the relative risks and benefits of surgery versus medical management for patients with left temporal lobe epilepsy.

Methods

We constructed a Markov decision model to evaluate the probabilistic outcomes and associated health utilities associated with choosing to undergo a left anterior temporal lobectomy versus continuing with medical management for patients with medically refractory left temporal lobe epilepsy. Three base‐cases were considered, representing a spectrum of surgical candidates encountered in practice, with varying degrees of epilepsy‐related disability and potential for decreased quality of life in response to post‐surgical verbal memory deficits.

Results

For patients with moderately severe seizures and moderate risk of verbal memory loss, medical management was the preferred decision, with increased quality‐adjusted life expectancy. However, the preferred choice was sensitive to clinically meaningful changes in several parameters, including quality of life impact of verbal memory decline, quality of life with seizures, mortality rate with medical management, probability of remission following surgery, and probability of remission with medical management.

Significance

Our decision model suggests that for patients with left temporal lobe epilepsy, quantitative assessment of risk and benefit should guide recommendation of therapy. In particular, risk for and potential impact of verbal memory decline should be carefully weighed against the degree of disability conferred by continued seizures on a patient‐by‐patient basis.
Thermal adaptation generates a diversity of thermal limits in a rainforest ant community
Authors: Kaspari Michael , Clay Natalie A. , Lucas Jane , Yanoviak Stephen P , Kay Adam
Published: September 2014

The Thermal Adaptation Hypothesis posits that the warmer, aseasonal tropics generates populations with higher and narrower thermal limits. It has largely been tested among populations across latitudes. However, considerable thermal heterogeneity exists within ecosystems: across 31 trees in a Panama rainforest, surfaces exposed to sun were 8 °C warmer and varied more in temperature than surfaces in the litter below. Tiny ectotherms are confined to surfaces and are variously submerged in these superheated boundary layer environments. We quantified the surfaceCTminandCTmaxs (surface temperatures at which individuals grew torpid and lost motor control, respectively) of 88 ant species from this forest; they ranged in average mass from 0.01 to 57 mg. Larger ants had broader thermal tolerances. Then, for 26 of these species we again tested bodyCTmaxs using a thermal dry bath to eliminate boundary layer effects: body size correlations observed previously disappeared. In both experiments, consistent with Thermal Adaptation,CTmaxs of canopy ants averaged 3.5–5 °C higher than populations that nested in the shade of the understory. We impaled thermocouples in taxidermy mounts to further quantify the factors shaping operative temperatures for four ant species representing the top third (1–30 mg) of the size distribution. Extrapolations suggest the smallest 2/3rds of species reach thermal equilibrium in <10s. Moreover, the large ants that walk above the convective superheated surface air also showed more net heating by solar radiation, with operative temperatures up to 4 °C higher than surrounding air. The thermal environments of this Panama rainforest generate a range ofCTmaxsubsuming 74% of those previously recorded for ant populations worldwide. The Thermal Adaptation Hypothesis can be a powerful tool in predicting diversity of thermal limits within communities. Boundary layer temperatures are likely key to predicting the future of Earth's tiny terrestrial ectotherm populations.
Application ofLASSOto the Eigenvector Selection Problem in Eigenvector‐based Spatial Filtering
Authors: Seya Hajime , Murakami Daisuke , Tsutsumi Morito , Yamagata Yoshiki
Published: September 2014

Eigenvector‐based spatial filtering is one of the often used approaches to model spatial autocorrelation among the observations or errors in a regression model. In this approach, a subset of eigenvectors extracted from a modified spatial weight matrix is added to the model as explanatory variables. The subset is typically specified via the selection procedure of the forward stepwise model, but it is disappointingly slow when the observationsntake a large number. Hence, as a complement or alternative, the present article proposes the use of the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) to select the eigenvectors. TheLASSOmodel selection procedure was applied to the well‐knownBoston housing data set and simulation data set, and its performance was compared with the stepwise procedure. The obtained results suggest that theLASSOprocedure is fairly fast compared with the stepwise procedure, and can select eigenvectors effectively even if the data set is relatively large (n= 104), to which the forward stepwise procedure is not easy to apply.
Fractured rock stress‐permeability relationships from in situ data and effects of temperature and chemical‐mechanical couplings
Authors: Rutqvist J.
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this paper is to (i) review field data on stress‐induced permeability changes in fractured rock; (ii) describe estimation of fractured rock stress‐permeability relationships through model calibration against such field data; and (iii) discuss observations of temperature and chemically mediated fracture closure and its effect on fractured rock permeability. The field data that are reviewed includein situblock experiments, excavation‐induced changes in permeability around tunnels, borehole injection experiments, depth (and stress) dependent permeability, and permeability changes associated with a large‐scale rock‐mass heating experiment. Data show how the stress‐permeability relationship of fractured rock very much depends on localin situconditions, such as fracture shear offset and fracture infilling by mineral precipitation. Field and laboratory experiments involving temperature have shown significant temperature‐driven fracture closure even under constant stress. Such temperature‐driven fracture closure has been described as thermal overclosure and relates to better fitting of opposing fracture surfaces at high temperatures, or is attributed to chemically mediated fracture closure related to pressure solution (and compaction) of stressed fracture surface asperities. Back‐calculated stress‐permeability relationships from field data may implicitly account for such effects, but the relative contribution of purely thermal‐mechanical and chemically mediated changes is difficult to isolate. Therefore, it is concluded that further laboratory andin situexperiments are needed to increase the knowledge of the true mechanisms behind thermally driven fracture closure, and to further assess the importance of chemical‐mechanical coupling for the long‐term evolution of fractured rock permeability.
Alterations of the mTOR pathway in hepatic angiomyolipoma with emphasis on the epithelioid variant and loss of heterogeneity of TSC1/TSC2
Authors: Huang Shih‐Chiang , Chuang Huei‐Chieh , Chen Tai‐Di , Chi Chen‐Lin , Ng Kwai‐Fong , Yeh Ta‐Sen , Chen Tse‐Ching
Published: September 2014

Aims

To determine the significance of the epithelioid type and the corresponding molecular alterations in hepatic angiomyolipoma (AML).

Methods and results

We retrieved 24 samples of hepatic AML to delineate the clinicopathological features and the immunohistochemical expression of components in the mTOR pathway, and employed microsatellite markers to analyse allelic imbalances in the TSC1 and TSC2 regions. Myomatous AML was the most common type, and a predominantly epithelioid cell population was observed in 50% of the samples. Two‐thirds of all samples contained <20% of fat tissue. Four cases of monotypic epithelioid AML were discovered without prognostic implications. Elevated phospho‐p70S6 kinase expression was noted in 19 samples in the absence of phospho‐AKT activity. Loss of heterogeneity (LOH) of TSC1/TSC2 was found in 15 samples. As compared wityh syndromic AML samples, sporadic AML samples showed LOH of microsatellite markers to a limited extent. Only four samples had increased β‐catenin expression in the context of concurrent high expression of phospho‐p70S6 kinase and phospho‐S6 (P = 0.018).

Conclusions

The low fat content and epithelioid cytomorphology in hepatic AML potentially obstruct preoperative and pathological diagnosis. Alteration of the mTOR pathway and LOH of the tuberous sclerosis complex genes is a frequent pathogenesis in hepatic AMLs.
Histological evolution of pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis
Authors: Hirota Takako , Yoshida Yuji , Kitasato Yasuhiko , Yoshimi Michihiro , Koga Takaomi , Tsuruta Nobuko , Minami Masato , Harada Taishi , Ishii Hiroshi , Fujita Masaki , Nabeshima Kazuki , Nagata Nobuhiko , Watanabe Kentaro
Published: September 2014

Aims

To investigate the histological evolution in the development of pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (PPFE).

Methods and results

We examined four patients who had undergone surgical lung biopsy twice, or who had undergone surgical lung biopsy and had been autopsied, and in whom the histological diagnosis of the first biopsy was not PPFE, but the diagnosis of the second biopsy or of the autopsy was PPFE. The histological patterns of the first biopsy were cellular and fibrotic interstitial pneumonia, cellular interstitial pneumonia (CIP) with organizing pneumonia, CIP with granulomas and acute lung injury in cases 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Septal elastosis was already present in the non‐specific interstitial pneumonia‐like histology of case 1, but a few additional years were necessary to reach consolidated subpleural fibroelastosis. In case 3, subpleural fibroelastosis was already present in the first biopsy, but only to a small extent. Twelve years later, it was replaced by a long band of fibroelastosis. The septal inflammation and fibrosis and airspace organization observed in the first biopsies were replaced by less cellular subpleural fibroelastosis within 3–12 years.

Conclusions

Interstitial inflammation or acute lung injury may be an initial step in the development of PPFE.
Short‐Time Compensation as a Tool to Mitigate Job Loss? Evidence on the U.S. Experience During the Recent Recession
Authors: Abraham Katharine G. , Houseman Susan N.
Published: September 2014

During the recent recession only seventeen states offered short‐time compensation (STC)—prorated unemployment benefits for workers whose hours are reduced for economic reasons. Federal legislation passed in 2012 will encourage the expansion of STC. Exploiting cross‐state variation in STC, we present new evidence indicating that jobs saved during the recession as a consequence of STC may have been significant in manufacturing, but that the overall scale of the STC program was generally too small to have substantially mitigated aggregate job losses in the seventeen states. Expansion of the program is necessary for STC to be an effective countercyclical tool in the future.
Effect of Fixation Method on Postoperative Complication Rates After Surgical Stabilization of Lateral Humeral Condylar Fractures in Dogs
Authors: Perry Karen L. , Bruce Mieghan , Woods Samantha , Davies Clare , Heaps Laura A. , Arthurs Gareth I.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To assess the impact of stabilization method on the complication rate after lateral humeral condylar fracture (LHCF) repair.

Study Design

Retrospective multicenter clinical cohort study.

Animals

Dogs (n = 151) with LHCF.

Methods

Medical records (2004–2012) were reviewed for dogs that had surgical repair of LHCF. Data retrieved included signalment, cause of fracture, evidence of incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle, occurrence of postoperative complications, presence of supracondylar comminution preoperatively, and persistence of an intracondylar fissure postoperatively. Outcome was assessed based on the most recent data available and graded as excellent, good, fair, or poor.

Results

LHCF (n = 135) were evaluated in 132 dogs; 61 fractures were stabilized using a transcondylar screw and supracondylar K‐wire, 13 using a transcondylar screw and supracondylar screw, and 61 using a transcondylar screw and lateral epicondylar plate. Major complications were significantly (P = .01) more common after stabilization using a transcondylar screw and supracondylar K‐wire (28%) than in dogs where a supracondylar screw or lateral epicondylar plate were used (11%). Cases that had postoperative complications were significantly (P = .02) more likely to have a poor outcome.

Conclusions

LHCF stabilized using a transcondylar screw and supracondylar K‐wire are more likely to have major complications resulting in a poorer outcome than cases stabilized using a supracondylar screw or lateral epicondylar plate.
Failure Variability in Porous Glasses: Stress Interactions, Crack Orientation, and Crack Size Distributions
Authors: Keleṣ Özgür , Edwin García R. , Bowman Keith J.
Published: September 2014

Fracture behavior of porous glass is investigated through a combined finite element–fracture mechanics approach. In contrast to earlier studies, here, simulations embody flaw size distributions in addition to pore–pore stress interactions and crack orientation along pore surfaces. Fracture strength of porous glass shows a steep decrease up to 20% porosity and then levels off due to interacting pores. Weibull modulus varies because of the decreased probability of interactions in microstructures containing less than 2% porosity or the smallest pore diameter =48  μm. Weibull modulus strongly depends on crack size distributions for porosity less than 2% and pore–pore stress interactions for porosity greater than 5%.
Ferrocene‐Catalyzed Growth of Single‐Crystalline 6H‐SiC Nanoribbons
Authors: Chu Yanhui , Li Hejun , Li Lu , Qi Lehua
Published: September 2014

Single crystal 6H–SiC nanoribbons were in situ synthesized in large scale on the as‐prepared SiC–Si ceramic substrates via a facile heat‐treatment approach using ferrocene as catalyst. The as‐synthesized nanoribbons were up to several millimeters long, with widths of 200–300 nm and thicknesses of 20–80 nm. A novel combination growth mechanism of vapor–liquid–solid‐based and vapor–solid‐tip was proposed for the growth mode of the as‐synthesized nanoribbons. This study provided not only a new method for synthesizing SiC nanoribbons but also a new insight into the growth mode for SiC nanoribbons.
Cryptic diversity and biogeographical patterns within the black salamander (Aneides flavipunctatus) complex
Authors: Reilly Sean B. , Wake David B.
Published: September 2014

Aim

Phylogeographical structure in the black salamander (Aneides flavipunctatus) was inferred using two independent genetic datasets. Concordance between the datasets was sought in order to evaluate earlier suggestions of species‐level breaks and evidence of vicariance and long‐term isolation within the complex. We hypothesized that major phylogeographical breaks would either correspond to current tectonic plate boundaries or to historical geological processes.

Location

North‐western California and southern Oregon (USA).

Methods

Three mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genes were sequenced for 240 black salamanders from 136 localities, and up to 13 nuclear DNA loci were sequenced for 145 black salamanders representing 93 localities. Phylogenetic analysis of our mitochondrial dataset was performed to recover major lineages, while spatial clustering analysis of our nuclear dataset was utilized to identify points of concordance with our mtDNA phylogeny. Levels of gene flow were estimated for all contact zones.

Results

Our mitochondrial phylogeny recovered four major lineages. Cluster analysis of our nuclear dataset is consistent with a four‐population scheme, with the boundaries matching those of the mtDNA lineages. Gene flow across a contact zone in southern Humboldt between two of the populational units is extremely limited (2Nm < 1). In what is identified as the Central Core population, two distinctive subpopulations were delineated based on nuclear data, but mitochondrial data are discordant.

Main conclusions

The Aneides flavipunctatus complex comprises at least four species‐level units. Two of the boundaries between these units are associated with current tectonic plate boundaries. The contact zone between our Northwest and Central Core populations lies adjacent to the Mendocino Triple Junction (MTJ), where the Humboldt and North American plates meet, while the area separating the Santa Cruz and Central Core populations corresponds to the boundary between the Pacific and Humboldt tectonic plates. The phylogeographical break within the Central Core population lies in a region in which uplift occurred that is associated with the historical position of the migrating MTJ.
The Uremic Toxin Indoxyl Sulfate Increases Pulmonary Vein and Atrial Arrhythmogenesis
Authors: CHEN WEI‐TA , CHEN YAO‐CHANG , HSIEH MING‐HSIUNG , HUANG SHIH‐YU , KAO YU‐HSUN , CHEN YI‐ANN , LIN YUNG‐KUO , CHEN SHIH‐ANN , CHEN YI‐JEN
Published: September 2014

Effects of Indoxyl Sulfate on Pulmonary Vein and Atrial Arrhythmogenesis

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF) with unclear mechanisms. Indoxyl sulfate (IS) accumulates in CKD patients. IS increases oxidative stress, which contributes to the genesis of AF. The arrhythmogenic effect of IS is unclear.

Methods

Conventional microelectrodes recorded the action potentials (AP) of isolated rabbit left atrium (LA), right atrium (RA), pulmonary vein (PV), and sinoatrial nodes (SANs) before and after treatment with IS with and without an antioxidant (ascorbic acid). Confocal microscopy with fluorescence and whole‐cell patch clamp were used to evaluate intracellular calcium in isolated PV cardiomyocytes with and without IS.

Results

Compared to the control, IS induced more PV delayed afterdepolarizations at 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μM, and induced more PV burst firings at 1, 10, and 100 μM. In contrast, IS (10 and 100 μM) reduced the SAN spontaneous beating rate. IS (100 μM) significantly shortened LA AP durations, but not RA. IS (100 μM)‐treated PV cardiomyocytes had a similar calcium transient and sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium content, but a larger calcium leak than control PV cardiomyocytes. Burst pacing and isoproterenol induced a greater AF occurrence (50% vs. 100%; P = 0.009) and a longer AF duration (26 ± 9 vs. 5 ± 3 seconds; P < 0.05) in the LA (n = 8) with IS (100 μM) than without IS. Moreover, ascorbic acid (1 mM) attenuated the effects of IS on the LA, PV, and SANs.

Conclusion

IS increases PV and atrial arrhythmogenesis through oxidative stress. They may contribute to the occurrence of AF in CKD patients.
Association between vitamin D level and viral load or fibrosis stage in chronic hepatitis B patients from Southern China
Authors: Yu Rui , Sun Jian , Zheng Zhidan , Chen Jian , Fan Rong , Liang Xieer , Zhu Youfu , Liu Ying , Shen Sheng , Hou Jinlin
Published: September 2014

Background and Aim

The role of vitamin D playing in patients with chronic hepatitis C has been intensively studied. However, studies on the potential interaction between vitamin D level and chronic hepatitis B are still limited. This study aimed to explore whether any association existed between serum vitamin D level and liver histology or virological parameters in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection in Southern China.

Methods

25‐Hydroxyvitamin D serum levels were determined in a cohort of 242 treatment‐naïve chronic hepatitis B patients. Histologic assessment was based on Knodell histologic activity index and Ishak fibrosis staging. Predictors of vitamin D insufficiency were identified using multivariate analysis.

Results

Mean 25‐hydroxyvitamin D value was 33.90 ng/mL. The percentage of patients with different concentration of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (≥ 30 ng/mL, 20–30 ng/mL, < 20 ng/mL) were 59.9%, 31.4%, and 8.7%, respectively. Gender, season, age, and viral genotype were independent predictors of vitamin D insufficiency (< 30 ng/mL). Patients with genotype B virus infection had a lower mean 25‐hydroxyvitamin D level (P = 0.023) and higher prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency than those with genotype C (P = 0.021), while no association was found between vitamin D status and viral load. In addition, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D level did not significantly vary according to activity grade or fibrosis stage.

Conclusions

The prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency is relatively low in our cohort. Patients infected with genotype B had a higher prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency than genotype C. 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D serum level is not associated with viral load or fibrosis stage in chronic hepatitis B patients.
Oral care post stroke: a scoping review
Authors: Kwok C. , McIntyre A. , Janzen S. , Mays R. , Teasell R.
Published: September 2014

Health concerns post stroke may be the result of, or exacerbated by, neglected oral health care (OHC). However, OHC may be challenging post stroke due to hemiparesis, hemiplegia, a lack of coordination, and/or cognitive deficits. The objective of this study was to conduct a scoping review and summarise the current state of knowledge pertaining to OHC post stroke. A literature search was conducted using the multiple databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, etc.). Combinations of multiple keywords were searched: oral, dental, health, care, hygiene, teeth, dentures, tooth brushing, stroke, cardiovascular health and cardiovascular disease. A grey literature search was also conducted. Articles included were those published in English between 1970 and July 2013, which focused on at least one aspect of OHC among a stroke population. For clinical trials, ≥50% of the sample must have sustained a stroke. In total, 60 articles met inclusion and focused on three primary area: (i) OHC Importance/Stroke Implications; (ii) Current Research; and (iii) Current Practice. It was found that OHC concerns are mainly related to mastication, dysphagia/nutrition, hygiene, prostheses and quality of life. Research indicates that there is limited specialised and individual care provided, and there are few assessment tools, guidelines and established protocols for oral health that are specific to the stroke population. Further, dental professionals' and nurses' knowledge of OHC is generally inadequate; hence, proper education for health professionals in acute and rehabilitation settings, patients, and caregivers has been discussed.
Tumor progression driven by pathways activating matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors
Authors: Bodnar Magdalena , Szylberg Łukasz , Kazmierczak Wojciech , Marszalek Andrzej
Published: September 2014

Background

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is still a problem worldwide. In some publications interactions between the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), particularly MMP‐2 and MMP‐9, and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) implicated during cancer progression were suggested.

Methods

The immunohistochemical staining using primary antibody against MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, and TIMP‐3 were performed. The research group consists of primary N(0) LSCC (20 cases), primary N(+) LSCC (17 cases), and 18 cases of normal mucosa.

Results

Studied MMPs and TIMPs were localized in tumor cells and tumor stroma compartment. MMP‐2 expression was higher in stroma compared to tumor cells. MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, and TIMP‐3 expression was higher in tumor cells than in tumor stroma (P < 0.05). In tumor stroma MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, and TIMP‐3 expression, in LSCC N(0) vs. LSCC N(+) was significantly higher (P < 0.05). The ratios between MMP‐2 and TIMP‐3 expression were statistically significant (N(0) vs. N(+); P = 0.012). The analyses using classification trees predicted the probability of metastases according to TIMP‐3/MMP‐14/MMP‐2 and MMP‐9/TIMP‐1 expression levels.

Conclusions

The presence of MMP‐2, MMP‐9, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, TIMP‐3 expression in tumor cells and in tumor stroma, and additionally different expression according to lymph node involvement suggested of their impact during cancer progression. The significant correlation between TIMP‐3 expression and the presence of lymph node metastases and MMP‐2 expression might suggest the importance of TIMP‐3 as a prognostic factor during tumor progression. The evaluation of molecular markers which participate in MMP‐2 activation pathway have a major impact during metastasis.
A Newly Proposed Method to Predict Optimum Occlusal Vertical Dimension
Authors: Yamashita Shuichiro , Shimizu Mariko , Katada Hidenori
Published: September 2014

Purpose

Establishing the optimum occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) in prosthetic treatment is an important clinical procedure. No methods are considered to be scientifically accurate in determining the reduced OVD in patients with missing posterior teeth. The purpose of this study was to derive a new formula to predict the lower facial height (LFH) using cephalometric analysis.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐eight lateral cephalometric radiographs of Japanese clinical residents (mean age, 28.6 years) with complete natural dentition were used for this study. Conventional skeletal landmarks were traced. Not only the LFH, but six angular parameters and four linear parameters, which did not vary with reduced OVD, were selected. Multiple linear regression analysis with a stepwise forward approach was used to develop a prediction formula for the LFH using other measured parameters as independent variables.

Results

The LFH was significantly correlated with Gonial angle, SNA, N‐S, Go‐Me, Nasal floor to FH, Nasal floor to SN, and FH to SN. By stepwise multiple linear regression analysis, the following formula was obtained: LFH (degree) = 65.38 + 0.30* (Gonial angle; degree) – 0.49* (SNA; degree) – 0.41* (N‐S; mm) + 0.21* (Go‐Me; mm) – 15.45* (Nasal floor to FH; degree) + 15.22* (Nasal floor to SN; degree) – 15.40* (FH to SN; degree).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study for one racial group, our prediction formula is valid in every LFH range (37 to 59°), and it may also be applicable to patients in whom the LFH deviated greatly from the average.
Clarifying the Relation Between Extraversion and Positive Affect
Authors: Smillie Luke D. , DeYoung Colin G. , Hall Phillip J.
Published: September 2014

This article clarifies two sources of ambiguity surrounding the relation between extraversion and positive affect. First, positive affect is defined differently across major models of the structure of affect. Second, no previous research has examined potentially diverging associations of lower‐order aspects of extraversion (i.e., assertiveness and enthusiasm) with positive affect. Australian (Study 1: N = 437, 78% female, Mage = 20.41) and American (Study 2: N = 262, 39% female, Mage = 33.86) participants completed multiple measures of extraversion and positive affect. Correlations were employed to examine relations among these measures. In both studies, extraversion was most clearly associated with positive affect as conceptualized within a major factor model of affect—specifically, as positive activation (Watson & Tellegen, 1985)—rather than the valence‐based conceptualization of positive affect provided by a circumplex model of affect (Russell, 1980). This was also the case for the assertiveness and enthusiasm aspects of extraversion. Our findings clarify the nature of the positive affective component of extraversion, which is best described in terms of both positive valence and high activation.