bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a Novel P190-Derived Breakpoint Peptide Suitable for Peptide Vaccine Therapeutic Approach in Ph+ Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Patients
Authors: Ippoliti Micaela , Defina Marzia , Gozzini Antonella , Baratè Claudia , Aprile Lara , Pietrini Alice , Gozzetti Alessandro , Raspadori Donatella , Lauria Francesco , Bocchia Monica
Published: February 2012

Ph+ acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) is a high-risk acute leukemia with poor prognosis, in which the specific t(9;22)(q34;q11) translocation results in a chimeric bcr-abl (e1a2 breakpoint) and in a 190 KD protein (p190) with constitutive tyrosine kinase activity. The advent of first- and second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) improved the short-term outcome of Ph+ ALL patients not eligible for allo-SCT; yet disease recurrence is almost inevitable. Peptides derived from p190-breakpoint area are leukemia-specific antigens that may mediate an antitumor response toward p190+ leukemia cells. We identified one peptide named p190-13 able to induce in vitro peptide-specific CD4+ T cell proliferation in Ph+ ALL patients in complete remission during TKIs. Thus this peptide appears a good candidate for developing an immune target vaccine strategy possibly synergizing with TKIs for remission maintenance.
Hepatic Arterial Therapy with Drug-Eluting Beads in the Management of Metastatic Pancreatic Carcinoma to the Liver: A Multi-Institutional Registry
Authors: Kotoyan Raffi , Metzger Tiffany , Tatum Cliff , Robbins Ken , Martin Robert C. G.
Published: February 2012

Introduction. There has been limited reporting on the use of hepatic-directed therapy in liver dominant hepatic metastases arising from pancreatic cancer.Methods. An IRB-approved prospective multi-institutional treatment registry of 885 patients undergoing 1458 treatments for primary or secondary cancers in the liver was evaluated from January 2007 to January 2011.Results. Ten patients underwent a total of 17 treatment sessions with drug-eluting beads (DEBs). Six patients received concurrent chemotherapy while undergoing DEB with no severe adverse events. After a median followup of 16 months, the 6- and 12-month response rates were 80% and 75%, respectively, with a median overall survival of 9.3 months.Conclusion. Hepatic arterial therapy with DEB can be safely and effectively used in selected patients with liver predominant metastatic disease from pancreatic cancer. This therapy should be considered in combination with systemic chemotherapy as a possible second therapy given the limited response rates of second-line chemotherapy.
Lanthanum Influence onEuAlO3Perovskite Structural Properties: Experimental and Molecular Dynamics Studies
Authors: Lima Enrique , Villafuerte-Castrejón María Elena , Saniger José , Lara Victor , Sánchez-Sánchez Jorge E. , Javier Álvarez Luis
Published: February 2012

X-ray diffraction,27Al MAS NMR, and FTIR spectra along with results of molecular dynamics simulations were used to characterise LaxEu1−xAlO3perovskites forx=0.3,  0.1. Experimental and simulation results show that local changes in the perovskite-like structure can be achieved as lanthanum ions substitute europium ones. The introduction of La3+ions in the EuAlO3parent causes an increase in the mobility of oxygen network.
Determinants of Extraocular Muscle Volume in Patients with Graves' Disease
Authors: El-Kaissi Samer , Wall Jack R.
Published: February 2012

Background. To examine factors contributing to extraocular muscle (EOM) volume enlargement in patients with Graves’ hyperthyroidism.Methods. EOM volumes were measured with orbital magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 39 patients with recently diagnosed Graves’ disease, and compared to EOM volumes of 13 normal volunteers. Thyroid function tests, uptake on thyroid scintigraphy, anti-TSH-receptor antibody positivity and other parameters were then evaluated in patients with EOM enlargement.Results. 31/39 patients had one or more enlarged EOM, of whom only 2 patients had clinical EOM dysfunction. Compared to Graves’ disease patients with normal EOM volumes, those with EOM enlargement had significantly higher mean serum TSH (0.020±0.005versus0.007±0.002mIU/L;Pvalue 0.012), free-T4 (52.9±3.3versus41.2±1.7 pmol/L;Pvalue 0.003) and technetium uptake on thyroid scintigraphy (13.51±1.7%versus8.55±1.6%;Pvalue 0.045). There were no differences between the 2 groups in anti-TSH-receptor antibody positivity, the proportion of males, tobacco smokers, or those with active ophthalmopathy.Conclusions. Patients with recently diagnosed Graves’ disease and EOM volume enlargement have higher serum TSH and more severe hyperthyroidism than patients with normal EOM volumes, with no difference in anti-TSH-receptor antibody positivity between the two groups.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Pesticides in Natural Water: Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Miguel Natividad , Ormad María P. , Mosteo Rosa , Ovelleiro José L.
Published: February 2012

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of photocatalytic treatment with titanium dioxide in the degradation of 44 organic pesticides analyzed systematically in the Ebro river basin (Spain). The effect of the addition of hydrogen peroxide in this treatment is studied, and a monitoring of effectiveness of photocatalytic processes is carried out by measurements of physical-chemical parameters of water. The application of photocatalytic treatment with 1 g L−1of TiO2during 30 minutes achieves an average degradation of the studied pesticides of 48%. Chlorine demand, toxicity, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration of water are reduced. If hydrogen peroxide is added with a concentration of 10 mM, the average degradation of pesticides increases up to 57%, although chlorine demand and toxicity of water increase while DOC concentration remains unchanged with this treatment. The application of either photocatalytic treatments does not produce variations in the physical-chemical parameters of water, such as pH, conductivity, colour, dissolved oxygen, and hardness. The pesticides which are best degraded by photocatalytic treatments are parathion methyl, chlorpyrifos, α-endosulphan, 3,4-dichloroaniline, 4-isopropylaniline, and dicofol while the worst degraded are HCHs, endosulphan-sulphate, heptachlors epoxide, and 4,4′-dichlorobenzophenone.
Classification, Molecular Characterization, and the Significance ofPtenAlteration in Leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Grossmann Allie H. , Layfield Lester J. , Randall R. Lor
Published: February 2012

Leiomyosarcoma is a malignant smooth muscle neoplasm with a complicated histopathologic classification scheme and marked differences in clinical behavior depending on the anatomic site of origin. Overlapping morphologic features of benign and borderline malignant smooth muscle neoplasms further complicate the diagnostic process. Likewise, deciphering the complex and heterogeneous patterns of genetic changes which occur in this cancer has been challenging. Preliminary studies suggest that reproducible molecular classification may be possible in the near future and new prognostic markers are emerging. Robust recapitulation of leiomyosarcoma in mice with conditional deletion ofPtenin smooth muscle and the simultaneous discovery of a novel role for Pten in genomic stability provide a fresh perspective on the mechanism of leiomyosarcomagenesis and promise for therapeutic intervention.
A Soybean Oil‐Based Liposome‐Polymer Transfection Complex as a Codelivery System for DNA and Subunit Vaccines
Authors: Lin Yu-Ling , Chen Li-Yi , Chen Chia-Hung , Liu Yen-Ku , Hsu Wei-Tung , Ho Li-Ping , Liao Kuang-Wen
Published: February 2012

Inexpensive liposome‐polymer transfection complexes (LPTCs) were developed and used as for DNA or protein delivery. The particle sizes of the LPTCs were in the range of 212.2 to 312.1 nm, and the zetapotential was +38.7 mV. LPTCs condensed DNA and protected DNA from DNase I digestion and efficiently delivered LPTC/DNA complexes in Balb/3T3 cells. LPTCs also enhanced the cellular uptake of antigen in mouse macrophage cells and stimulated TNF‐α release in naïve mice splenocytes, both indicating the potential of LPTCs as adjuvants for vaccines. In vivo studies were performed using H. pylori relative heat shock protein 60 as an antigen model. The vaccination of BALB/c mice with LPTC‐complexed DNA and protein enhanced the humoral immune response. Therefore, we developed a DNA and protein delivery system using LPTCs that is inexpensive, and we successfully applied it to the development of a DNA and subunit vaccine.
CP‐Based SBHT‐RLS Algorithms for Tracking Channel Estimates in Multicarrier Modulation Systems
Authors: Ali H.
Published: February 2012

Cyclic prefix (CP) in multicarrier modulation systems has been considered as an alternative to the training sequences to track channel estimates. In this paper, two new algorithms are developed that exploit CP from their data detection part and employ systolic block Householder transformation recursive least squares (SBHT‐RLS) algorithms for channel tracking in multicarrier systems. The new methods are compared with the existing CP exploiting correlation matrix based block RLS (CMB‐RLS) channel tracking approach to outline their relative advantages. Aspects of computational complexity and parallel implementation are addressed, and the algorithms are tested in terms of their channel estimation and tracking capabilities. Performance of the algorithms is also evaluated for varying forgetting factor parameter values, constellation size, and word lengths. Floating‐point and fixed‐point simulations are tailored to illustrate pertinent tradeoffs.
Automated Measurement of Immature Granulocytes: Performance Characteristics and Utility in Routine Clinical Practice
Authors: Senthilnayagam Balamurugan , Kumar Treshul , Sukumaran Jayapriya , M. Jeya , Rao K. Ramesh
Published: February 2012

The granulocytic “shift to left” reflects marrow response to bacterial infection, and this may be quantified as band count or immature granulocyte count (IGC). The former value, used widely in neonatal sepsis, has been notoriously difficult to measure accurately and precisely. A reproducible, precise, and accurate counting of immature granulocyte counts may be possible with automation. This study of 200 febrile patients aimed at analysing the performance characteristics of automated immature granulocytes (AIGs) in predicting blood culture and their clinical utility. The absolute (IGC) and relative IG count (IG%) had area under curve (AUC) of 0.69 and 0.66. Moreover, the means of IGC and IG% between culture positive and negative groups were statistically significant suggesting that they are potential markers for bacteremia. IGC of 0.03 × 103 cu⋅mm and IG% of 0.5% offered sensitivity of 86.3% and 92.2%, respectively, and may be used for screening for bacteremia. Higher values, IGC > 0.3, and IG% > 3 had specificity greater than 90%, although the values were infrequent. It may not be long before that these automated hemograms are put into regular diagnostic use.
On the Taxonomy ofAcanthoscurriaAusserer from Southeastern Brazil with Data on the Natural History ofA. gomesianaMello-Leitão (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Theraphosidae)
Authors: Gonzalez-Filho Hector M. O. , Lucas Sylvia M. , Paula Felipe dos S. , Indicatti Rafael P. , Brescovit Antonio D.
Published: February 2012

The study of type material and specimens ofA. gomesianaof several Brazilian spider collections offered us the possibility to redescribe this species and consider synonyms of the first one of the following:A. violacea,A. pugnax, andA. aurita.Acanthoscurria cunhaeandA. melanotheriaare consideredSpecies inquirendae, the types were not located, and the descriptions are not enough for identification of similar ones. We considered as valid only two species from the southeast of Brazil:A. paulensisandA. gomesiana. The distribution range ofA. gomesianais enhanced in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Some data on natural history and phenology are presented.
A Multimodal Approach to the Management of Neuroendocrine Tumour Liver Metastases
Authors: Basuroy Ron , Srirajaskanthan Rajaventhan , Ramage John K.
Published: February 2012

Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are often indolent malignancies that commonly present with metastatic disease in the liver. Surgical, locoregional, and systemic treatment modalities are reviewed. A multidisciplinary approach to patient care is suggested to ensure all therapeutic options explored.
Progesterone and Cerebral Function during Emotion Processing in Men and Women with Schizophrenia
Authors: Champagne Julie , Lakis Nadia , Bourque Josiane , Stip Emmanuel , Lipp Olivier , Mendrek Adrianna
Published: February 2012

Schizophrenia has been associated with disturbed levels of sex-steroid hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. In the present study we have examined the implication of a less studied hormone progesterone. Forty-three patients with schizophrenia (21 women) and 43 control participants (21 women) underwent functional MRI while viewing emotionally positive, negative, and neutral images. Blood samples were taken prior to the scanning session to evaluate progesterone levels. Simple regression analyses between levels of progesterone and brain activations associated with emotion processing were performed using SPM5. A positive correlation was found between progesterone levels and brain activations during processing of emotionally charged images in both healthy and schizophrenia men, but no significant relationship was revealed in women. These preliminary results indicate that progesterone is significantly associated with brain activations during processing of positive and negative affect in healthy and schizophrenia men, but not in women. Further investigation is warranted.
A National Baseline Prevalence Survey of Schistosomiasis in the Philippines Using Stratified Two-Step Systematic Cluster Sampling Design
Authors: Leonardo Lydia , Rivera Pilarita , Saniel Ofelia , Villacorte Elena , Lebanan May Antonnette , Crisostomo Bobby , Hernandez Leda , Baquilod Mario , Erce Edgardo , Martinez Ruth , Velayudhan Raman
Published: February 2012

For the first time in the country, a national baseline prevalence survey using a well-defined sampling design such as a stratified two-step systematic cluster sampling was conducted in 2005 to 2008. The purpose of the survey was to stratify the provinces according to prevalence of schistosomiasis such as high, moderate, and low prevalence which in turn would be used as basis for the intervention program to be implemented. The national survey was divided into four phases. Results of the first two phases conducted in Mindanao and the Visayas were published in 2008. Data from the last two phases showed three provinces with prevalence rates higher than endemic provinces surveyed in the first two phases thus changing the overall ranking of endemic provinces at the national level. Age and sex distribution of schistosomiasis remained the same in Luzon and Maguindanao. Soil-transmitted and food-borne helminthes were also recorded in these surveys. This paper deals with the results of the last 2 phases done in Luzon and Maguindanao and integrates all four phases in the discussion.
HLA Immune Function Genes in Autism
Authors: Torres Anthony R. , Westover Jonna B. , Rosenspire Allen J.
Published: February 2012

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes on chromosome 6 are instrumental in many innate and adaptive immune responses. The HLA genes/haplotypes can also be involved in immune dysfunction and autoimmune diseases. It is now becoming apparent that many of the non-antigen-presenting HLA genes make significant contributions to autoimmune diseases. Interestingly, it has been reported that autism subjects often have associations with HLA genes/haplotypes, suggesting an underlying dysregulation of the immune system mediated by HLA genes. Genetic studies have only succeeded in identifying autism-causing genes in a small number of subjects suggesting that the genome has not been adequately interrogated. Close examination of the HLA region in autism has been relatively ignored, largely due to extraordinary genetic complexity. It is our proposition that genetic polymorphisms in the HLA region, especially in the non-antigen-presenting regions, may be important in the etiology of autism in certain subjects.
Therapeutic Efficacy of CEP-33779, a Novel Selective JAK2 Inhibitor, in a Mouse Model of Colitis-Induced Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Seavey Matthew M. , Lu Lily D. , Stump Kristine L. , Wallace Nate H. , Hockeimer William , O'Kane Teresa M. , Ruggeri Bruce A. , Dobrzanski Pawel
Published: February 2012

Constitutively activated STAT3 and STAT5 are expressed in a wide variety of human malignancies including solid and hematopoietic cancers and often correlate with a poor prognosis and resistance to multiple therapies. Given the well established role of STAT3 in tumorigenesis, inhibition of Janus-activated kinase 2 (JAK2) activity might represent an attractive therapeutic approach. Using a mouse model of colitis-induced colorectal cancer, we show that a novel, orally active, selective JAK2 inhibitor, CEP-33779, induced regression of established colorectal tumors, reduced angiogenesis, and reduced proliferation of tumor cells. Histopathologic analysis confirmed reduced incidence of histologic-grade neoplasia by CEP-33779. Tumor regression correlated with inhibition of STAT3 and NF-κB (RelA/p65) activation in a CEP-33779 dose–dependent manner. In addition, the expression of proinflammatory, tumor-promoting cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1β was strongly reduced upon JAK2 inhibition. The ability of CEP-33779 to suppress growth of colorectal tumors by inhibiting the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling suggests a potential therapeutic utility of JAK2 inhibitors in multiple tumors types, particularly those with a strong inflammatory component. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(4); 984–93. ©2012 AACR.
Better Speech Recognition in Noise with the Fine Structure Processing Coding Strategy
Authors: Vermeire Katrien , Kleine Punte Andrea , Van de Heyning Paul
Published: February 2012

Background: Recently, a new speech coding strategy named ‘fine structure processing’ (FSP) has been launched. Methods: 32 subjects, all users of the MED-EL PULSARCI100 system, have been switched over from a TEMPO+ to an OPUS 2 speech processor. In 22 subjects, the FSP strategy could be implemented (FSP group), in 10 patients not (high-definition continuous interleaved sampling, HDCIS, group). Subjects were tested with the Tempo+ (CIS+) just before switch-over and after 12 months of OPUS 2 (FSP/HDCIS) use. Performance with FSP/HDCIS was tested at switch-over, and after 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. A sentence-in-noise test and a Speech Spatial and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ) questionnaire were assessed at each test interval. Results: In the FSP group, the speech reception threshold shows a deterioration of 3.3 dB (n.s.) at the acute switch-over interval, but a significant improvement over time (p < 0.001) with a final benefit of 6.5 dB after 12 months of FSP use. A significant improvement over time can also be seen on the spatial subscore of the SSQ questionnaire (p = 0.009). No significant differences could be seen in the HDCIS group. Conclusion: The results show that by enhancing fine structure coding in the lower frequencies, as implemented in the FSP coding strategy, speech perception in noise can be enhanced.
An Assessment of the Human Nail Plate pH
Authors: Murdan S. , Milcovich G. , Goriparthi G.S.
Published: February 2012

Purpose of Study: To measure the pH of the surface of healthy nail plates. Procedures: The surface pH of human fingernails and big toenails was measured in vivo using a skin pH meter. The influence of washing, anatomical site (fingers/toes), side (left/right), digit (digits 1–5) and gender was determined. The pH of the nail interior was also measured. Results: The pH of the nail plate surface was around 5, with toenails having a significantly higher pH than fingernails. Immediately after hand washing, the nail surface pH increased significantly, from pH 5.1 ± 0.4 to 5.3 ± 0.5. However, this was not sustained with time, and the pH returned to prewashing levels within 20 min. Gender had an influence on unwashed, but not washed, nail plate pH. The pH of the nail plate interior was lower than that of its surface. Conclusions: It was possible to measure nail plate pH, and baseline values are provided.
Intracerebroventricular Administration of Metformin Inhibits Ghrelin-Induced Hypothalamic AMP-Kinase Signalling and Food Intake
Authors: Stevanovic Darko , Janjetovic Kristina , Misirkic Maja , Vucicevic Ljubica , Sumarac-Dumanovic Mirjana , Micic Dragan , Starcevic Vesna , Trajkovic Vladimir
Published: February 2012

Background/Aims: The antihyperglycaemic drug metformin reduces food consumption through mechanisms that are not fully elucidated. The present study investigated the effects of intracerebroventricular administration of metformin on food intake and hypothalamic appetite-regulating signalling pathways induced by the orexigenic peptide ghrelin. Methods: Rats were injected intracerebroventricularly with ghrelin (5 µg), metformin (50, 100 or 200 µg), 5-amino-imidazole-4-carboxamide 1-β-D-ribofuranoside (AICAR, 25 µg) and L-leucine (1 µg) in different combinations. Food intake was monitored during the next 4 h. Hypothalamic activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), regulatory-associated protein of mTOR (Raptor), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and p70 S6 kinase 1 (S6K) after 1 h of treatment was analysed by immunoblotting. Results: Metformin suppressed the increase in food consumption induced by intracerebroventricular ghrelin in a dose-dependent manner. Ghrelin increased phosphorylation of hypothalamic AMPK and its targets ACC and Raptor, which was associated with the reduced phosphorylation of mTOR. The mTOR substrate, S6K, was activated by intracerebroventricular ghrelin despite the inhibition of mTOR. Metformin treatment blocked ghrelin-induced activation of hypothalamic AMPK/ACC/Raptor and restored mTOR activity without affecting S6K phosphorylation. Metformin also reduced food consumption induced by the AMPK activator AICAR while the ghrelin-triggered food intake was inhibited by the mTOR activator L-leucine. Conclusion: Metformin could reduce food intake by preventing ghrelin-induced AMPK signalling and mTOR inhibition in the hypotalamus.
The Potential of Microvessel Density in Prediction of Infarct Growth: A Two-Month Experimental Study in Vessel Size Imaging
Authors: Xu Chao , Schmidt Wolf U.H. , Galinovic Ivana , Villringer Kersten , Hotter Benjamin , Ostwaldt Ann-Christin , Denisova Natalia , Kellner Elias , Kiselev Valerij , Fiebach Jochen B.
Published: February 2012

Objectives: Vessel size imaging is a novel technique to evaluate pathological changes of the microvessel density quantity Q and the mean vessel size index (VSI). As a follow-up study, we assessed these parameters for microscopic description of ischemic penumbra and their potentials in predicting lesion growth. Methods: Seventy-five patients with a perfusion-diffusion mismatch were examined within 24 h from symptom onset. We defined three regions of interest: the initial infarct (INF), the ischemic penumbra (IPE), and the healthy region (HEA) symmetric to the IPE. For 23 patients with a 6th-day follow-up, IPE regions were divided into areas of infarct growth and areas of oligemia. Result: The median values of Q and VSI were: for INF 0.29 s-1/3 and 15.8 µm, for IPE 0.33 s-1/3 and 20.6 µm and for HEA 0.36 s-1/3 and 17.4 µm. The Q in the IPE was significantly smaller than in HEA, and VSI was significantly larger. The Q with a threshold of 0.32 s-1/3 predicted the final infarction with a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 64%. Conclusions: The reduced Q and increased VSI in the IPE confirmed our previous pilot results. Although Q showed a trend to identify the severity of ischemia in an overall voxel population, its potential in predicting infarct growth needs to be further tested in a larger cohort including a clear status of reperfusion and recanalization.
Copeptin Level and Copeptin Response to Percutaneous Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty in Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Günebakmaz Özgür , Celik Ahmet , Inanc M. Tugrul , Duran Mustafa , Karakaya Ekrem , Tulmac Murat , Akpek Mahmut , Sarli Bahadir , Ergin Ali , Topsakal Ramazan
Published: February 2012

We aimed to investigate copeptin levels in mitral stenosis (MS) patients and the behavior of copeptin after hemodynamic improvement achieved by percutaneous balloon mitral valvuloplasty (PBMV). The study involved 29 consecutive symptomatic patients with moderate to severe rheumatic MS who underwent PBMV. Twenty-eight age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers composed the control group. Blood samples for copeptin were obtained immediately before and 24 h after PBMV, centrifuged, then stored at -70°C until assayed. The copeptin level of the patient group was statistically different from that of the control group (61.8 ± 34.4 and 36.8 ± 15.2 pg/ml, respectively; p = 0.001). PBMV resulted in a significant increase in mitral valve area and a significant decrease in transmitral gradient as well as systolic pulmonary artery pressure. While hemodynamic relief was obtained, we detected a statistically significant decline in copeptin levels 24 h after PBMV compared to the baseline levels (from 61.8 ± 34.4 to 44.1 ± 18.2 pg/ml; p = 0.004).
Prevalence and Predictors of Pulmonary Embolism in Korean Patients with Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Choi Keum-Ju , Cha Seung-Ick , Shin Kyung-Min , Lee Jongmin , Hwangbo Yup , Yoo Seung-Soo , Lee Jaehee , Lee Shin-Yup , Kim Chang-Ho , Park Jae-Yong , Jung Tae-Hoon
Published: February 2012

Background: Data concerning the rate of pulmonary embolism (PE) in Asian patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation are sparse, and no study has shown predictors of PE in these patients. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and predictors of PE in Korean patients with COPD exacerbation. Methods: Hospitalized patients with COPD exacerbations were prospectively enrolled into this study and underwent computed tomography (CT) pulmonary angiography and indirect CT venography. Results: The most common cause of COPD exacerbation was lower respiratory tract infection (82%; n = 84), followed by PE (5%; n = 5). Eight patients (8%) had venous thromboembolism, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was seen in 6%, with proximal DVT in 4%. On multivariate analysis, the absence of symptoms of respiratory infection and plasma D-dimer elevation (≥500 µg/l) were significant factors predicting PE in patients with COPD exacerbations (odds ratio 31, 95% confidence interval 2-563, p = 0.02, and odds ratio 25, 95% confidence interval 1-464, p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions: PE comprises approximately 5% of the etiologies of COPD exacerbations in Koreans. The absence of symptoms suggestive of respiratory infection and elevated plasma D-dimer levels were significant predictors of PE in this population.
Kisspeptin Inhibits High-Voltage Activated Ca2+ Channels in GnRH Neurons via Multiple Ca2+ Influx and Release Pathways
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Bing , Spergel Daniel J.
Published: February 2012

Kisspeptin plays an important role in puberty and subsequent fertility by activating its receptor, G-protein-coupled receptor 54 (GPR54), and increasing cytoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion in GnRH neurons. Yet the mechanism by which kisspeptin increases [Ca2+]i in GnRH neurons remains to be fully elucidated. In other neurons, voltage-gated Ca2+ channel (VGCC) activity has been shown to be inversely related to [Ca2+]i. We used whole-cell patch-clamp recording to examine the effects of kisspeptin-10 (KP-10) on VGCC activity evoked by step depolarizations in GnRH neurons in brain slices from pubertal male GnRH-green fluorescent protein transgenic mice. Prolonged (>30 s) KP-10 application inhibited Ca2+ currents. The GPR54 antagonist peptide 234, chelation of intracellular Ca2+ by 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid, substitution of Ba2+ for Ca2+, the calmodulin antagonists calmidazolium and trifluoperazine, the phospholipase C inhibitor edelfosine, the canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channel and inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) antagonist 2-APB, the TRPC channel antagonist BTP2 and the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase blocker cyclopiazonic acid each prevented inhibition. The IP3R antagonists caffeine (10 µM), heparin and intracellular 2-APB prevented inhibition to a lesser extent. The ryanodine receptor (RyR) antagonists ryanodine and dantrolene prevented inhibition, and the RyR agonist caffeine (30 mM) mimicked the effects of KP-10 on Ca2+ currents. Our results suggest that kisspeptin induces Ca2+ influx through TRPC channels and Ca2+ release via IP3Rs and RyRs, and that this is followed by Ca2+/CaM-dependent inhibition of VGCCs.
Critical Review of Mouse Models of Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Diaz Jose A. , Obi Andrea T. , Myers Daniel D. , Wrobleski Shirley K. , Henke Peter K. , Mackman Nigel , Wakefield Thomas W.
Published: February 2012

Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are a significant health care concern, representing a major source of mortality and morbidity. In order to understand the pathophysiology of thrombogenesis and thrombus resolution, animal models are necessary. Mouse models of venous thrombosis contribute to our understanding of the initiation, propagation, and resolution of venous thrombus, as well as allow for the evaluation of new pharmaceutical approaches to prophylaxis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis. In this work we review the ferric chloride model, the inferior vena cava ligation model, the inferior vena cava stenosis models, and the electrolytic inferior vena cava model and compare their advantages and disadvantages.
Differential Expression of MicroRNAs in Different Disease States
Authors: Abdellatif Maha
Published: February 2012

Disturbances in gene expression as a result of perturbed transcription or posttranscriptional regulation is one of the main causes of cellular dysfunction that underlies different disease states. Approximately a decade ago, the discovery of microRNAs in mammalian cells has renewed our focus on posttranscriptional regulatory mechanisms during pathogenesis. These tiny posttranscriptional regulators are differentially expressed in almost every disease that has been studied to date and can modulate expression of a gene via specifically binding to its messenger RNA. Because of their capacity to simultaneously target multiple functionally related, genes, they are proving to be potentially powerful therapeutic agents/targets. In this review, we focus on the microRNAs that are differentially regulated in the more common cardiovascular pathologies, their targets, and potential function.
The Value of Experiments in Education
Authors: Whitehurst Grover J.
Published: February 2012

One of the major story lines of the growth of civilization is the advance of the experiment. From the food we eat to the diseases we conquer to our understanding of how we think and behave, we have profited enormously from an approach that marries our models of the world with tests of their validity through systematic variation to determine cause and effect. These same tools of thought and action are no less critical to the advance of education than to medicine, agriculture, psychology, or transportation. There has been impressive growth in the use of experimental methods in education over the past decade. As a result, much more is known today about what works and what does not. Future progress will be enhanced by research that better explicates process: linking trials to administrative data; serving the interest of local and state officials in examining the impact of their policies and practices; better preservice training for education practitioners in the logic and value of rigorous research; and more generous federal funding for the research enterprise.
Improving the Productivity of Education Experiments: Lessons from a Randomized Study of Need-Based Financial Aid
Authors: Harris Douglas N. , Goldrick-Rab Sara
Published: February 2012

Given scarce resources for evaluation, we recommend that education researchers more frequently conduct comprehensive randomized trials that generate evidence on how, why, and under what conditions interventions succeed or fail in producing effects. Recent experience evaluating a randomized need-based financial aid intervention highlights some of our arguments and guides our outline of the circumstances under which the examination of mechanisms and heterogeneous impacts is particularly important. Comprehensive experiments can enhance research productivity by increasing the number of theories both tested and generated and can advance policy and practice by exploring the conditions under which interventions will be most successful in scale up. Paradoxically, while the emphasis on average treatment effects is typically associated with efficiency-minded economists, we argue that the approach is often inefficient from the standpoints of science and policy.
Evaluation of Clouds and Precipitation in the ECHAM5 General Circulation Model Using CALIPSO and CloudSat Satellite Data
Authors: Nam Christine C. W. , Quaas Johannes
Published: February 2012

Observations from Cloud–Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO) and CloudSat satellites are used to evaluate clouds and precipitation in the ECHAM5 general circulation model. Active lidar and radar instruments on board CALIPSO and CloudSat allow the vertical distribution of clouds and their optical properties to be studied on a global scale. To evaluate the clouds modeled by ECHAM5 with CALIPSO and CloudSat, the lidar and radar satellite simulators of the Cloud Feedback Model Intercomparison Project’s Observation Simulator Package are used. Comparison of ECHAM5 with CALIPSO and CloudSat found large-scale features resolved by the model, such as the Hadley circulation, are captured well. The lidar simulator demonstrated ECHAM5 overestimates the amount of high-level clouds, particularly optically thin clouds. High-altitude clouds in ECHAM5 consistently produced greater lidar scattering ratios compared with CALIPSO. Consequently, the lidar signal in ECHAM5 frequently attenuated high in the atmosphere. The large scattering ratios were due to an underestimation of effective ice crystal radii in ECHAM5. Doubling the effective ice crystal radii improved the scattering ratios and frequency of attenuation. Additionally, doubling the effective ice crystal radii improved the detection of ECHAM5’s highest-level clouds by the radar simulator, in better agreement with CloudSat. ECHAM5 was also shown to significantly underestimate midlevel clouds and (sub)tropical low-level clouds. The low-level clouds produced were consistently perceived by the lidar simulator as too optically thick. The radar simulator demonstrated ECHAM5 overestimates the frequency of precipitation, yet underestimates its intensity compared with CloudSat observations. These findings imply compensating mechanisms in ECHAM5 balance out the radiative imbalance caused by incorrect optical properties of clouds and consistently large hydrometeors in the atmosphere.
Wavenumber Analysis of Azimuthally Distributed Data: Assessing Maximum Allowable Gap Size
Authors: Lorsolo Sylvie , Aksoy Altuğ
Published: February 2012

Performing wavenumber decomposition on azimuthally distributed data such as those in tropical cyclones can be challenging when data gaps exist in the signal. In the literature, ad hoc approaches are found to determine maximum gap size beyond which not to perform Fourier decomposition. The goal of the present study is to provide a more objective and systematic method to choose the maximum gap size allowed to perform a Fourier analysis on observational data. A Monte Carlo–type experiment is conducted where signals of various wavenumber configurations are generated with gaps of varying size, then a simple interpolation scheme is applied and Fourier decomposition is performed. The wavenumber decomposition is evaluated in a way that requires retrieval of at least 80% of the original amplitude with less than 20° phase shift. Maximum allowable gap size is then retrieved for wavenumbers 0–2. When prior assessment of signal configuration is available, the authors believe that the present study can provide valuable guidance for gap size beyond which Fourier decomposition is not advisable.
Verification of TIGGE Multimodel and ECMWF Reforecast-Calibrated Probabilistic Precipitation Forecasts over the Contiguous United States*
Authors: Hamill Thomas M.
Published: February 2012

Probabilistic quantitative precipitation forecasts (PQPFs) were generated from The Observing System Research and Predictability Experiment (THORPEX) Interactive Grand Global Ensemble (TIGGE) database from July to October 2010 using data from Europe (ECMWF), the United Kingdom [Met Office (UKMO)], the United States (NCEP), and Canada [Canadian Meteorological Centre (CMC)]. Forecasts of 24-h accumulated precipitation were evaluated at 1° grid spacing within the contiguous United States against analysis data based on gauges and bias-corrected radar data.

PQPFs from ECMWF’s ensembles generally had the highest skill of the raw ensemble forecasts, followed by CMC. Those of UKMO and NCEP were less skillful. PQPFs from CMC forecasts were the most reliable but the least sharp, and PQPFs from NCEP and UKMO ensembles were the least reliable but sharper.

Multimodel PQPFs were more reliable and skillful than individual ensemble prediction system forecasts. The improvement was larger for heavier precipitation events [e.g., >10 mm (24 h)−1] than for smaller events [e.g., >1 mm (24 h)−1].

ECMWF ensembles were statistically postprocessed using extended logistic regression and the five-member weekly reforecasts for the June–November period of 2002–09, the period where precipitation analyses were also available. Multimodel ensembles were also postprocessed using logistic regression and the last 30 days of prior forecasts and analyses. The reforecast-calibrated ECMWF PQPFs were much more skillful and reliable for the heavier precipitation events than ECMWF raw forecasts but much less sharp. Raw multimodel PQPFs were generally more skillful than reforecast-calibrated ECMWF PQPFs for the light precipitation events but had about the same skill for the higher-precipitation events; also, they were sharper but somewhat less reliable than ECMWF reforecast-based PQPFs. Postprocessed multimodel PQPFs did not provide as much improvement to the raw multimodel PQPF as the reforecast-based processing did to the ECMWF forecast.

The evidence presented here suggests that all operational centers, even ECMWF, would benefit from the open, real-time sharing of precipitation forecast data and the use of reforecasts.
The Rhetoric of Institutional Change
Authors: Brown Andrew D. , Ainsworth Susan , Grant David
Published: February 2012

This paper analyses how a case for institutional change is made through rhetoric in an individual text. Drawing on Aristotle’s three types of rhetorical justification, logos, pathos and ethos, we make three contributions. First, we show that the multiple competing logics which often dominate a field can become incorporated into key texts. As a result, the notionally rational argumentation repertoires which underpin each logic exist in tension, and are prone to contradict each other, making it difficult for a text to support convincingly one logic rather than another on the basis of logos appeals. In such instances, the authors of a text may favour one logic over another through the strategic use of ethos (moralizing) and pathos (emotion-evoking) rhetoric. Second, we demonstrate how ethos and pathos function to construct social categories (identities) and draw on dominant cultural myths. Third, we theorize these textual strategies as acts aimed at reconfiguring relations of power/knowledge.
Explaining the Development–Civil War Relationship
Authors: Holtermann Helge
Published: February 2012

The vast majority of civil wars occur in economically less developed countries, as measured by GDP per capita. Two suggested explanations for this are prominent: one emphasizing that poverty facilitates rebel recruitment due to lowered economic opportunity cost of rebelling, and the other highlighting that low state reach and capacity give political and military opportunity for organizing insurgency. I argue that the latter account is more powerful. Low state reach is vital not only to rebel survival; it also enables rebels to obtain control over remote settlements, which facilitates the effective use of persuasion, coercion, organization, and economic rewards for mobilizing recruits and other resources. Although low economic opportunity costs can ease recruitment, it may not be essential if such tools are available. The argument is supported by a quantitative analysis covering 133 countries from 1989 to 2006. Countries experiencing civil war were distinguished more by low state reach (measured by road density, telephone density, and % urban of the population) than by depth of poverty (measured by the mean income of the poorest decile). Moreover, the negative association between GDP per capita and civil war risk disappeared when controlling for state reach, but remained strong controlling for poverty.
Federalism, the Geographic Location of Groups, and Conflict
Authors: Christin Thomas , Hug Simon
Published: February 2012

In the literature on civil conflicts, federalism is often touted as a useful institution to address regional demands. However, diversity in the groups present in a country is also associated with a higher tendency for conflicts. In this article we examine how the geographic distribution of groups across a country affects the ways in which federalism contributes to conflict resolution. Of tantamount importance in assessing these effects of federalism is whether particular types of distributions of groups across a territory make the adoption of federal institutions more likely. We find federal countries with strong ethno-federal arrangements to be particularly conflict-prone.
An Analysis of the Drivers of Microfinance Rating Assessments
Authors: Beisland Leif Atle , Mersland Roy
Published: February 2012

Rating assessments of microfinance institutions (MFIs) are claimed to measure a combination of creditworthiness, trustworthiness, and excellence in microfinance. Using a global data set covering reports from 304 microfinance institutions, this study suggests that these ratings are mainly driven by size, profitability, and risk. The overall results suggest that microfinance ratings convey information similar to that communicated by traditional credit ratings. All results are remarkably consistent across rating agencies. The determinants of the rating grades are found to be the same in all subsamples.
Financing the American Civil War: Developing new tax sources
Authors: Giroux Gary
Published: February 2012

The American Civil War was expected to be short and financed through additional borrowing. As Northern military setbacks mounted, it became obvious that the war would be long, bloody, and expensive. Annual federal budgets called for increased taxes to partially finance the rising costs. The Revenue Act of 1862 created innovative new tax sources and increased revenues dramatically. Tax innovations included the first federal income and inheritance taxes, the creation of the Office of Internal Revenue, and the use of adhesive revenue stamps. This article describes the political strategies and financial battles of the Civil War and post-war period, with particular focus on the Office of Internal Revenue and the introduction of new tax sources at the federal level. The major Civil War era innovation was the introduction of the federal income tax, including how to calculate taxable income and how tax collections were operationalized. The political and financial history of the income tax is a major focus of this article.
Low-Grade Myofibroblastic Sarcoma of the Larynx
Authors: Covello Renato , Licci Stefano , Pichi Barbara , Spriano Giuseppe , Vidiri Antonello , Morelli Luca , Rosenberg Andrew E.
Published: February 2012

Low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma is an uncommon sarcoma with myofibroblastic differentiation. It occurs in a wide variety of sites and has a predilection for the head and neck region. Biologically, low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma has a propensity for local recurrence and is associated with a low risk of metastatic spread. Histologically, it can mimic a variety of different types of benign and malignant processes and often requires immunohistochemical analysis for its accurate identification. This report describes a case and discusses the differential diagnosis of a low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma that arose in the larynx of a 69-year-old woman with a history of metastatic skin melanoma. To the best of the authors’ knowledge this is the first description in the English literature of low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma originating in the larynx.
Metaplastic Variant of Invasive Micropapillary Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Aggarwal Gitika , Reid Michelle Dian , Sharma Suash
Published: February 2012

Invasive micropapillary carcinomas (IMC) and metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC) have different clinicopathologic features. This study reports an unusual case of multifocal grade III IMC associated with MBC component in a 35-year-old woman. MBC was vimentin positive, pancytokeratin negative, and showed focal p63 positivity. Immunostains for estrogen and progesterone receptor, and fluorescence in situ hybridization for Her2/neu amplification were negative. All the left axillary lymph nodes dissected were positive for metastatic carcinoma with ductal and IMC patterns, but without metaplastic component. Postmastectomy computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans showed metastases to lungs, liver, brain, and vertebrae. The biologic behavior of tumor was in accordance with histology, so that the nodal and distant metastases were testament to the underlying inherently aggressive IMC, whereas large tumor size and triple negativity reflected the features of MBC. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of a metaplastic variant of invasive micropapillary breast carcinoma with triple negative phenotype.
Predictors of proteinuria reduction by monotherapy with an angiotensin receptor blocker, olmesartan
Authors: Ono Minamo , Fukuda Michio , Miura Toshiyuki , Mizuno Masashi , Kato Yoko , Sato Ryo , Naito Takehiro , Togawa Hiroyuki , Sasakawa Yuji , Tomonari Tatsuya , Ichikawa Tadashi , Shirasawa Yuichi , Ito Akinori , Yoshida Atsuhiro , Kimura Genjiro
Published: February 2012

Introduction: It is known that reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a crucial factor to limit the blood pressure lowering effect of antihypertensives. In the present study, we tested whether the effects of monotherapy with an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) to lower proteinuria could be restricted by reduced GFR.

Materials and methods: Thirty-five renal patients who had albuminuria more than 30 mg/day, but did not have diabetic nephropathy or nephrotic syndrome, were studied before and during eight weeks of monotherapy with ARB, olmesartan.

Results: Blood pressure was lowered from 129 ± 18/79 ± 12 to 116 ± 18/72 ± 12 mmHg ( p < 0.0001), while albuminuria was reduced from 614±630 to 343±472 mg/day ( p < 0.0001). Albuminuria was inversely correlated with GFR both before and during treatment. Albuminuria reduction was enhanced as plasma renin activity ( p = 0.047) and dose of olmesartan were increased ( p = 0.04). Although the absolute reduction in proteinuria was not correlated with GFR ( p = 0.56), the % reduction was significantly proportional with GFR ( p = 0.027). Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that 64% of proteinuria reduction could be explained by baseline levels of albuminuria, GFR and renin activity.

Conclusions: The reduction in proteinuria by olmesartan may be roughly predicted using baseline GFR and other parameters. These findings clarify that the effect of ARB on proteinuria reduction is restricted by reduced GFR.