bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detecting cognitive dysfunction in a busy multiple sclerosis clinical setting: a computer generated approach
Authors: Lapshin H. , Audet B. , Feinstein A.
Published: November 2013

Background and purpose

This study aims to explore the effectiveness of a brief, computerized battery of tests in detecting cognitive differences between clinically isolated syndromes (CIS), relapsing−remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) patients.

Methods

Four groups of patients between the ages of 18 and 63 were enrolled from two hospital‐based multiple sclerosis clinics: CIS (n = 42), RRMS (n = 44), PPMS (n = 15) and SPMS (n = 37). All subjects were administered a validated battery of five computerized cognitive tests: the STROOP Color‐Word Test, the Computerized Symbol Digit Modalities Test, the Paced Visual Serial Addition Test (PVSAT) 4 s and 2 s trials, and a speed of cognition index obtained by subtracting simple reaction time from choice reaction time. Results were recorded by the test administrator.

Results

Significant between‐group differences in cognition were evident on all tests (P < 0.01) with the exception of the PVSAT 2 s trial. CIS patients were the least impaired, SPMS the most. RRMS and PPMS patients generally had a similar cognitive profile, more impaired than the CIS patients but less so than the SPMS patients. These differences persisted after controlling for the effects of age and education.

Conclusions

The ability of this computerized cognitive battery to distinguish the progression of cognitive deficits across the entire multiple sclerosis disease spectrum from CIS through to SPMS enhances its construct validity. This finding, coupled with the battery's brevity (20 min) and ease of administration, highlights its potential utility in a busy clinic setting.
Evaluation of laryngeal function under the influence of various head and neck positions during exercise in 58 performance horses
Authors: Go L. , Barton A. K. , Ohnesorge B.
Published: November 2013

The objective of this study was to examine laryngeal function at rest and during ridden exercise and to further analyse the impact of different head and neck positions on the laryngeal function in ridden sport horses. Fifty‐eightWarmblood horses were examined endoscopically during ridden exercise as well as during quiet breathing at rest before and after sedation. Four different head‐neck positions (unrestrained, reference, elevation and hyperflexion) were assessed during the exercise test. Laryngeal function was graded at rest and for every combination of gait and head and neck position during exercise. There was a significant correlation between the grade of laryngeal function during exercise and at rest both before (correlation coefficient = 0.794) and after (correlation coefficient = 0.741) sedation (P<0.01). No significant association was found between the grade of laryngeal function during exercise and the different head and neck positions.
Effect of long‐chain triglyceride lipid emulsion on bupivacaine‐induced changes in electrophysiological parameters of rabbit Purkinje cells
Authors: Lemoine Sandrine , Rouet René , Manrique Alain , Hanouz Jean‐Luc
Published: November 2013

Lipid emulsions are used in the reversal of local anesthetic toxicity. The aim of this study was to investigate the cellular electrophysiological effects of long‐chain triglyceride lipid emulsion (LCTE) on cardiac action potential characteristics and conduction disturbances induced by bupivacaine. Purkinje fibers were dissected from the left ventricle of New Zealand white rabbit hearts and superfused with either Tyrode's solution during 30 min (control group), with bupivacaine 10−6 m, 10−5 m, and 5.10−5 m alone, or in the presence of LCTE 0.5%, in addition, LCTE at 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1% was perfused alone. Electrophysiological parameters were recorded using the conventional microelectrode technique (37 °C, 1 Hz frequency). Bupivacaine 5.10−5 m‐induced conduction blocks (8/8 preparations): LCTE 0.5% suppressed the bupivacaine 5.10−5 m‐induced conduction blocks (1/8 preparations). Exposure to bupivacaine 10−6 m, 10−5 m, and 5.10−5 m resulted in a significant decrease in the maximal rate of depolarization (Vmax) (respectively, 25%, 55%, 75%; P < 0.002 vs. control group). In the presence of LCTE 0.5%, bupivacaine 10−6 m did not significantly decreased Vmax (13%; P = 0.10 vs. control group). The decrease in Vmax resulting from bupivacaine 10−5 m alone was significantly less in the presence of LCTE 0.5% (P < 0.01 vs. bupivacaine 10−5 m alone). Exposure to bupivacaine 10−6 m, 10−5 m, and 5.10−5 m alone or in the presence of LCTE 0.5% resulted in a significant decrease in action potential duration measured at 50% and 90% repolarization (APD50 and APD90; P < 0.01 vs. control group). LCTE inhibited the Purkinje fibers conduction blocks induced by bupivacaine. Moreover, LCTE 0.5% attenuates the decrease in Vmax induced by bupivacaine 10−6 m and 10−5 m.
Global dependence of field‐observed leaf area index in woody species on climate: a systematic review
Authors: Iio Atsuhiro , Hikosaka Kouki , Anten Niels P. R. , Nakagawa Yoshiaki , Ito Akihiko
Published: November 2013

Aim

Leaf area index (LAI) is one of the key variables related to carbon, water and nutrient cycles in terrestrial ecosystems, but its global distribution patterns remain poorly understood. We evaluated the dependence of LAI on mean annual temperature (MAT) and wetness index (WI; a ratio of annual precipitation to potential evapotranspiration) for three plant functional types (PFTs: deciduous broadleaf, DB; evergreen conifer, EC; evergreen broadleaf, EB) at the global scale.

Location

Global.

Methods

We developed a new global database of unprecedented size (2606 published values) of field‐observed LAI (site‐specific maximum) values for vegetation of woody species. To maximize the generic applicability of our analysis, we standardized the definition of LAI, and corrected or excluded potentially erroneous data obtained from indirect optical methods.

Results

The global dependence of LAI on MAT showed a reverse S‐shaped pattern, in which LAI peaked at around 8.9 and 25.0°C and was lowest at around −10.0 and 18.8°C. The dependence on WI followed a saturation curve levelling off at around log WI = 0.30. LAI for evergreen forests increased linearly with increasing WI, but that for DB showed a curvilinear pattern saturating at log WI = 0.03. EC forests had higher LAI values than those of DB forests under cool conditions (MAT ≤ 8.9°C), but similar values under temperate conditions (MAT = 8.9–18.8°C).

Main conclusions

This analysis of global LAI−climate relationships supports the general belief that temperature limits LAI under cool conditions whereas water availability plays a predominant role under other conditions. We also found that these patterns differed significantly between PFTs, suggesting that the LAI of different PFTs may respond differently to climate change. Our study provides a broad empirical basis for predicting the global distribution of LAI and for analysing the effects of global climate change on vegetation structure and function.
Indigenous knowledge perceptions and development practice in northern Malawi
Authors: Moyo Boyson Henry Zondiwe , Moyo Dumisani Zondiwe
Published: November 2013

This paper discusses contested issues in development related to Indigenous knowledge, and conventional development practice and theory. Drawing on findings from field research, this paper argues that although development aims at improving the quality of life of people concerned, the understanding of such improved life quality is different between local people and development experts. Experts emphasise economic growth as measured by per capita income, which is sometimes inadequate in explaining local people's understanding of development. The findings of the study lay bare the underlying values of local farmers in northern Malawi that contribute to improving quality of life and living standards. Indigenous knowledge developed by farmers shows that progress is understood in terms of adequate food, fresh, tasty value‐laden food available for consumption and utilising more than one part of the crops grown, and not just adequate income.
The Australia and New Zealand Fontan Registry: description and initial results from the first population‐based Fontan registry
Authors: Iyengar A. J. , Winlaw D. S. , Galati J. C. , Gentles T. L. , Weintraub R. G. , Justo R. N. , Wheaton G. R. , Bullock A. , Celermajer D. S. , d'Udekem Y.
Published: November 2013

Background

The Fontan procedure is the final in a series of staged palliations for single‐ventricle congenital heart disease, which encompasses rare and heterogeneous cardiac lesions. It represents an unusual and novel physiological state characterised by absence of a subpulmonary ventricle.

Aims

The population is growing steadily, prompting creation of this registry to study their epidemiology, demographic trends, treatment and outcomes.

Methods

This multicentre, binational, prospective and retrospective, web‐based registry involving all congenital cardiac centres in the region has identified nearly all Fontan patients in Australia and New Zealand. Patients identified retrospectively were approached for recruitment. New recipients are automatically enrolled prospectively unless they choose to opt‐out. Follow‐up data are collected yearly.

Results

Baseline data were obtained in 1072 patients as at 1 January 2011. Ninety‐nine patients died; 64 were lost to follow up. Forty‐four per cent of patients lost were between 20 and 30 years of age. The size of the Fontan population is increasing steadily. Among 973 living patients, 541 (56%) gave consent for prospective collection of follow up. Between 1 January 2011 and 1 January 2013, an additional 47 subjects were enrolled prospectively. The current proportion of patients operated with hypoplastic left heart syndrome is currently 29% and is growing rapidly.

Conclusion

The population surviving after the Fontan procedure has been growing in recent decades, especially since survival with hypoplastic left heart syndrome has improved. The Australia and New Zealand Fontan Registry provides population‐based data, and only large databases like this will give opportunities for understanding the population and performing prospective trials.
Treatment outcomes of rapid desensitisation protocols for chemotherapeutic agents and monoclonal antibodies following hypersensitivity reactions
Authors: Kuo J. C. , Hawkins C. , Yip D.
Published: November 2013

Background

Hypersensitivity reactions (HSR) to chemotherapeutic agents and monoclonal antibodies are common and may limit further therapeutic options. Drug desensitisation aims to induce a temporary clinical unresponsiveness to drug antigens so the causative drugs of HSR can continue to be administered. Rapid desensitisation using standardised protocols has been conducted by the Department of Immunology at The Canberra Hospital for patients who developed HSR to chemotherapeutic agents and monoclonal antibodies.

Aims

This retrospective audit reviewed the safety and efficacy of the desensitisation protocols used for patients across the Capital Region Cancer Service (CRCS).

Methods

Patients across the CRCS who received rapid desensitisation were identified through a search of archived correspondence. Clinical files and pharmacy records were analysed to determine protocol safety and efficacy.

Results

From June 2006 to July 2013, 13 patients underwent rapid desensitisations to oxaliplatin, carboplatin, docetaxel or rituximab. A total of 25 desensitisations was conducted with 21 (84%) achieving full target dose without inducing recurrent HSR. As a result, nine patients were successfully desensitised and continued to receive treatment without any further HSR. Desensitisation was aborted in three patients because of recurrence of HSR, which was not of a greater severity than the initial HSR. After successful desensitisation, seven patients were able to resume the regular protocols without requiring additional supervision.

Conclusion

Rapid desensitisation to various chemotherapeutic agents and monoclonal antibodies with standardised protocols used across CRCS is safe and effective; it provides a feasible treatment option enabling continuation of effective regimens in the setting of HSR.
Prenatal influenza exposure and cardiovascular events in adulthood
Authors: Cocoros Noelle M. , Lash Timothy L. , Ozonoff Al , Nørgaard Mette , DeMaria Alfred , Andreasen Viggo , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: November 2013

Objectives

This study examined the association between prenatal exposure to pandemic influenza and cardiovascular events in adulthood.

Design

Using Danish surveillance data to identify months when influenza activity was highest during three previous pandemics (1918, 1957, and 1968), persons were defined as exposed/unexposed based on whether they were in utero during peak months of one of the pandemics. Episodes of acute myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke were identified in the Danish National Registry of Patients covering all Danish hospitals since 1977.

Setting/Sample

Information from Danish national registries on all persons with a Civil Personal Registry number and birthdates in 1915 through 1922, 1954 through 1960, and 1966 through 1972 was collected.

Main outcome measures

Crude incidence rate ratios (IRRs) were calculated per pandemic. Generalized linear models were fit to estimate IRRs adjusted for sex.

Results

For acute MI, sex‐adjusted IRRs for persons in utero during peaks of the 1918, 1957, and 1968 pandemics, compared with those born afterward, were 1·02 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0·99, 1·05), 0·96 (95% CI: 0·87, 1·05), and 1·18 (95% CI: 0·96, 1·45), respectively. For stroke, the corresponding IRRs were 0·99 (95% CI: 0·97, 1·02), 0·99 (95% CI: 0·92, 1·05), and 0·85 (95% CI: 0·77, 0·94), respectively.

Conclusions

There was generally no evidence of an association between prenatal influenza exposure and acute MI or stroke in adulthood. However, survivor bias and left truncation of outcomes for the 1918 pandemic are possible, and the current young ages of persons included in the analyses for the 1957 and 1968 pandemics may warrant later re‐evaluation.
Who are the Europeans? European Identity Outside of European Integration
Authors: Schilde Kaija E.
Published: November 2013

What do we know about the relationship between Europe, the European Union and European identity? While national identity is a multifaceted phenomenon, European identity has been linked to the growth of the European Union. This article attempts to analyze some of the attributes of individuals with European identity in central and eastern Europe prior to EU accession by applying existing hypotheses on correlates of European identity. The phenomenon of identification with Europe prior to EU accession provides a window into understanding the identity mechanisms that inform the concept of European identity. The first Eurobarometer surveys measuring European identification in central and eastern accession states reported a puzzling finding: that more people, not less, identified with Europe than in existing EU states. An analysis of the Eurobarometer results provides counter‐intuitive comparisons and contrasts between eastern and western Europe and uncovers potential mechanisms illustrating the content of contemporary European identity.
Initiation of TNF inhibitor therapy and change in physiologic measures in psoriasis
Authors: Wu J.J. , Liu L. , Asgari M.M. , Curtis J.R. , Harrold L. , Salman C. , Herrinton L.J.
Published: November 2013

Background

Psoriasis may predispose to cardiovascular disease and diabetes. However, the role of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor in mediating this risk is controversial.

Objective

To assess this relationship, we estimated change in metabolic physiologic measures before and after initiation of TNF inhibitor therapy compared with methotrexate (MTX) therapy among psoriasis patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study, 2007–2012, using computerized clinical data for 1274 new users of TNF inhibitor and 979 new users of MTX therapy to compare change in blood pressure, lipids, triglycerides, fasting plasma glucose and body mass index (BMI) before and after start of TNF inhibitors or MTX. The study was restricted to new users. We computed within‐person change in each measure, so that each patient served as their own control. In addition, we compared TNF inhibitor patients to MTX patients, by computing the adjusted difference in their group means. In secondary analyses, we examined phototherapy as a comparator.

Results

Among starters of TNF inhibitor and MTX therapy, within‐person change in physiologic measures at 6 months did not differ significantly. We observed no important or significant changes in any of the physiologic measures with initiation of TNF inhibitor compared with MTX. The same results were found in subgroup analyses focused on men, and on those with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or obesity. The same results were observed with phototherapy, except that diastolic blood pressure declined by 0.6 mmHg within person during the 6 months after starting phototherapy (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The study provides no evidence for improvement of physiologic measures associated with the metabolic syndrome resulting from TNF inhibitor use for psoriasis.
Updated morphology, histopathology and molecular phylogeny of Myxobolus hearti, cardiac myxosporea in gibel carp, Carassius gibelio (Bloch)
Authors: Ye LT , Li WX , Wang WW , Wu SG , Wang GT
Published: November 2013

The original description of Myxobolus hearti is supplemented with new data on spore morphology, histopathology and molecular phylogeny. Myxobolus hearti are found in the heart ventricle of the gibel carp, Carassius gibelio (Bloch), where they form whitish oval or irregularly shaped plasmodia. Mature spores are oval or shortly ellipsoidal in frontal view, lemon‐shaped in sutural view and eye‐shaped in apical view. The spores are 14.12 ± 0.35 (13.6–15) μm long (mean ± SD), 11.85 ± 0.34 ± 0.36 (11–12) μm wide and 7.32 ± 0.36 (7–8) μm thick. The two polar capsules are equal in size, 6.11 ± 0.29 (6–7) μm long and 3.89 ± 0.31(3–4) μm wide, and are long pyriform in shape. Polar filaments have six or seven coils situated perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the polar capsules. Histopathology indicates that the plasmodia are encased by the host connective tissue, and no inflammatory responses are found in the heart ventricles. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 18S small‐subunit ribosomal DNA sequences indicates that M. hearti is, genetically, most similar to Henneguya doneci, a gill‐infecting species.
Management of sleep‐time masticatory muscle activity using stabilisation splints affects psychological stress
Authors: Takahashi H. , Masaki C. , Makino M. , Yoshida M. , Mukaibo T. , Kondo Y. , Nakamoto T. , Hosokawa R.
Published: November 2013

To treat sleep bruxism (SB), symptomatic therapy using stabilisation splints (SS) is frequently used. However, their effects on psychological stress and sleep quality have not yet been examined fully. The objective of this study was to clarify the effects of SS use on psychological stress and sleep quality. The subjects (11 men, 12 women) were healthy volunteers. A crossover design was used. Sleep measurements were performed for three consecutive days or longer without (baseline) or with an SS or palatal splint (PS), and data for the final day were evaluated. We measured masseter muscle activity during sleep using portable electromyography to evaluate SB. Furthermore, to compare psychological stress before and after sleep, assessments were made based on STAI‐JYZ and the measurement of salivary chromogranin A. To compare each parameter among the three groups (baseline, SS and PS), Friedman's and Dunn's tests were used. From the results of the baseline measurements, eight subjects were identified as high group and 15 as low group. Among the high group, a marked decrease in the number of bruxism events per hour and an increase in the difference in the total STAI Y‐1 scores were observed in the SS group compared with those at baseline (P < 0·05). No significant difference was observed in sleep stages. SS use may be effective in reducing the number of SB events, while it may increase psychological stress levels, and SS use did not apparently influence sleep stages.
Prognostic role of salivary CD44sol levels in the follow‐up of laryngeal carcinomas
Authors: Allegra Eugenia , Trapasso Serena , La Boria Alessandro , Aragona Teodoro , Pisani Davide , Belfiore Antonino , Garozzo Aldo
Published: November 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to verify CD44sol levels in the saliva of patients during follow‐up after surgery for laryngeal cancer, to compare them with those registered at the time of diagnosis (pre‐intervention) in the same patients, and to assess the reliability of the test as a prognostic indicator.

Methods

This prospective study was performed on 21 patients having laryngeal cancer who underwent surgery at the Division of Otolaryngology, University of Catanzaro; twelve adults with head and neck benign disease were recruited to form a control group. For each patient, the clinical–anamnestic data were collected and entered into a database. The sampling of undiluted saliva was performed the day before surgery and during the follow‐up, every 3 months. Salivary CD44sol levels were determined using the ELISA method.

Results

Mean salivary CD44sol levels in the patients group before surgery (pre‐intervention) were significantly higher than those in the control group (70.75 ± 33.8 vs. 12.4 ± 8.7 ng/ml). At follow‐up performed 3 months after surgery, 18 of 21 (85.71%) patients had a reduction in salivary CD44sol levels, with a mean value of 50.1 ng/ml; the difference between these and pre‐intervention CD44sol levels was statistically significant (P < 0.04). Mean CD44sol levels of 31.1 ng/ml at 6 months post‐intervention have been determined in 19 of 21 enrolled patients; none of the 19 patients have actual signs of recurrence.

Conclusions

These data seem to show that the determination of salivary CD44sol levels can represent a promising prognostic test in laryngeal carcinomas.
Differentiating between feline pleural effusions of cardiac and non‐cardiac origin using pleural fluid NT‐proBNP concentrations
Authors: Humm K. , Hezzell M. , Sargent J. , Connolly D. J. , Boswood A.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To assess whether pleural fluid and urine amino terminal proB‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) can distinguish cardiac from non‐cardiac causes of pleural effusion.

Methods

Blood, urine and pleural fluid were prospectively collected from cats presenting with pleural effusion categorised as cardiac or non‐cardiac in origin. NT‐ProBNP concentrations were measured using a feline‐specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Groups were statistically compared and receiver operating characteristic curves constructed to determine cut‐offs to distinguish cardiac from non‐cardiac pleural effusion in plasma, pleural fluid and urine.

Results

Forty cats with pleural effusion (22 cardiac and 18 non‐cardiac) were studied. NT‐proBNP concentrations in plasma and pleural fluid were strongly correlated. Plasma (P<0·001) and pleural fluid (P<0·001) NT‐proBNP concentrations and urinary NT‐proBNT/creatinine ratios (P=0·035) were significantly higher in the cardiac group. After receiver operating characteristic curve analysis a plasma NT‐proBNP cut‐off of 214·3 pmol/mL was suggested [sensitivity=86·4% (95% CI: 66·7 to 95·3%), specificity=88·9% (95% CI: 67·2 to 96·9%)] and a pleural fluid NT‐proBNP cut‐off of 322·3 pmol/mL was suggested [sensitivity=100% (95% CI: 85·1 to 100%), specificity=94·4% (95% CI: 74·2 to 99·0%)]. No cut‐off with adequate sensitivity and specificity for urinary NT‐proBNP/creatinine ratios was suggested.

Clinical Significance

Measurement of NT‐proBNP in pleural fluid distinguishes cardiac from non‐cardiac causes of pleural effusion in cats.
Differences in hepatitis C virus prevalence and clearance by mode of acquisition among men who have sex with men
Authors: Seaberg E. C. , Witt M. D. , Jacobson L. P. , Detels R. , Rinaldo C. R. , Young S. , Phair J. P. , Thio C. L.
Published: November 2013

We examined the characteristics associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody (anti‐HCV) prevalence and HCV clearance between injection drug using (IDU) and non‐IDU men who have sex with men (MSM). Stored serum and plasma samples were tested for anti‐HCV and HCV RNA to determine the HCV status of 6925 MSM at enrolment into the Multicentre AIDS Cohort Study (MACS). Prevalence and clearance ratios were calculated to determine the characteristics associated with HCV prevalence and clearance. Multivariable analyses were performed using Poisson regression methods with robust variance estimation. Anti‐HCV prevalence was significantly higher among IDU than among non‐IDU MSM (42.9% vs 4.0%), while clearance was significantly lower among IDU MSM (11.5% vs 34.5% among non‐IDU MSM). HIV infection, Black race, and older age were independently associated with higher prevalence in both groups, while smoking, transfusion history, and syphilis were significantly associated with prevalence only among non‐IDU MSM. The rs12979860‐C/C genotype was the only characteristic independently associated with HCV clearance in both groups, but the effects of both rs12979860‐C/C genotype [clearance ratio (CR) = 4.16 IDUs vs 1.71 non‐IDUs; P = 0.03] and HBsAg positivity (CR = 5.06 IDUs vs 1.62 non‐IDUs; P = 0.03) were significantly larger among IDU MSM. HIV infection was independently associated with lower HCV clearance only among non‐IDU MSM (CR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.40–0.87). IDU MSM have higher anti‐HCV prevalence and lower HCV clearance than non‐IDU MSM. Differences in the factors associated with HCV clearance suggest that the mechanisms driving the response to HCV may differ according to the mode of acquisition.
Watchful waiting: role of disease progression on uncertainty and depressive symptoms in patients with chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Colagreco J. P. , Bailey D. E. , Fitzpatrick J. J. , Musil C. M. , Afdhal N. H. , Lai M.
Published: November 2013

Background and Aims: New therapies for HCV are rapidly emerging and providers are advising select patients to defer treatment and elect ‘watchful waiting’. During the watchful waiting period, patients have been shown to have high rates of illness uncertainty and depression. We sought to answer the question of whether reassuring histological data (showing minimal fibrosis or no fibrosis progression over time) is associated with less illness uncertainty and depressive symptoms. Methods: This was a single‐centre outpatient prospective cohort study to determine whether stage of fibrosis, fibrosis progression and reasons for treatment deferral were related to illness uncertainty and depressive symptoms in patients following watchful waiting. Results: Illness uncertainty was significantly related to depressive symptoms (r = 0.49, P < 0.01). More than half of the participants (54%) had moderate levels of uncertainty. About 40% of the participants were at risk for clinical depression (21.7% at mild to moderate risk and 18.5% at high risk). Treatment naïve subjects had lower mean scores on both the CES‐D (depressive symptoms measure) and the MUIS‐A (illness uncertainty measure) total score, MUIS‐A Ambiguity subscale and MUIS‐A Inconsistency subscale than subjects who failed treatment or were interferon intolerant or ineligible. Surprisingly, liver fibrosis stage and progression were not significantly associated with overall illness uncertainty or depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Patients with chronic hepatitis C on watchful waiting are at high risk for significant illness uncertainty and depressive symptoms. Reassuring histological data does not seem to correlate with less uncertainty or depressive symptoms.
Ependymosarcoma with eosinophilic granular cells
Authors: Sugita Yasuo , Terasaki Mizuhiko , Morioka Motohiro , Nakashima Shinji , Nakamura Yukihiko , Ohshima Koichi
Published: November 2013

Ependymosarcoma is a new entity of malignant gliomas composed of ependymal and sarcomatous components. We report a rare case of ependymosarcoma with eosinophlic cells which occurred to the right trigon of the lateral ventricle. A 62‐year‐old man complained of headaches over a 2‐month period. A hard, gray mass was found in the right trigon of the lateral ventricle during the operation. Although he received radiation and chemotherapy, the patient died due to tumor disseminating through the whole brain within 7 months after the operation. The histological examination revealed that the anaplastic glial components intermingled with the sarcomatous components. Immunohistochemically, sarcomatous cells were positive for α smooth muscle actin and desmin. However, anaplastic glial cells were not positive for these markers. In addition, Masson trichrome stain showed a plethora of collagen fibers between sarcomatous cells, but no collagen fibers were produced by the glial tumor cells. Solid focal papillary lesions of the glial tumor showed dot‐like epithelial membrane antigen and diffuse cytoplasmic D2‐40 immunoreactivity. Based on the above findings, these anaplastic glial tumor cells should show focal ependymal differentiation, and sarcomatous cells show myofibroblastic differentiation. In addition, almost 10% of the tumor cells in the neoplasm showed bright eosinophilic granules in the cytoplasm. These cytoplasmic eosinophilic granules and bundles were negative on PAS staining. Intracytoplasmic eosinophilic granules of tumor cells were strongly positive for αB‐crystallin, HSP 27 and GFAP, respectively. These findings suggest that the clinicopathological characteristics of the present case should be consistent with the criterion of ependymosarcoma by Rodriguez et al.
Peroral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia
Authors: Bredenoord A. J. , Rösch T. , Fockens P.
Published: November 2013

Background

Treatment of achalasia is complicated by symptom recurrence and a significant risk for severe complications. Endoscopic myotomy was developed in the search for a highly efficacious treatment with lower risks. Since its introduction in 2010, several centers have adopted the technique and published excellent short‐term results of open label series. Randomized trials with long‐term endpoint comparing per‐oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) with the established treatments such as balloon dilation and surgical myotomy are now warranted, before POEM can be regarded as the routine clinical care for achalasia patients.

Purpose

This review describes the development, technical aspects, efficacy, and complications of POEM.
A multicenter study of primary graft failure after infant heart transplantation: Impact of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on outcomes
Authors: Kaushal S. , Matthews K. L. , Garcia X. , Wehman B. , Riddle E. , Ying Z. , Nubani R. , Canter C. E. , Morrow W. R. , Huddleston C. B. , Backer C. L. , Pahl E.
Published: November 2013

Primary graft failure is the major cause of mortality in infant HTx. The aim of this study was to characterize the indication and outcomes of infants requiring ECMO support due to primary graft failure after HTx. We performed a retrospective review of all infants (<1 yr) who underwent Htx from three institutions. From 1999 to 2008, 92 infants (<1 yr) received Htx. Sixteen children (17%) required ECMO after Htx due to low cardiac output syndrome. Eleven (69%) infants were successfully weaned off ECMO, and 9 (56%) infants were discharged with a mean follow‐up of 2.3 ± 2.5 yr. Mean duration of ECMO in survivors was 5.4 days (2–7 days) compared with eight days (2–10 days) in non‐survivors (p = NS). The five‐yr survival rate for all patients was 75%; however, the five‐yr survival rate was 40% in the ECMO cohort vs. 80% in the non‐ECMO cohort (p = 0.0001). Graft function within one month post‐Htx was similar and normal between ECMO and non‐ECMO groups (shortening fraction = 42 ± 3 vs. 40 ± 2, p = NS). For infants, ECMO support for primary graft failure had a lower short‐term and long‐term survival rate vs. non‐ECMO patients. Duration of ECMO did not adversely impact graft function and is an acceptable therapy for infants after HTx for low cardiac output syndrome.
Near‐visible light and UV photoprotection in the treatment of melasma: a double‐blind randomized trial
Authors: Castanedo‐Cazares Juan Pablo , Hernandez‐Blanco Diana , Carlos‐Ortega Blanca , Fuentes‐Ahumada Cornelia , Torres‐Álvarez Bertha
Published: November 2013

Background

Melasma is an acquired hyperpigmentation on sun‐exposed areas. Multiple approaches are used to treat it, but all include broad ultraviolet (UV)‐spectrum sunscreens. Visible light (VL) can induce pigmentary changes similar to those caused by UV radiation on darker‐skinned patients.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of sunscreen with broad‐spectrum UV protection that contains iron oxide as a VL‐absorbing pigment (UV‐VL) compared with a regular UV‐only broad‐spectrum sunscreen for melasma patients exposed to intense solar conditions.

Methods

Sixty‐eight patients with melasma were randomized in two groups to receive either UV‐VL sunscreen or UV‐only sunscreen, both with sun protection factor ≥ 50, over 8 weeks. All patients received 4% hydroquinone as a depigmenting treatment. At onset and at conclusion of the study, they were assessed by the Melasma Activity and Severity Index (MASI; a subjective scale), colorimetry (L*) and histological analysis of melanin.

Results

Sixty‐one patients concluded the study. At 8 weeks, the UV‐VL group showed 15%, 28% and 4% greater improvements than the UV‐only group in MASI scores, colorimetric values and melanin assessments, respectively.

Conclusions

UV‐VL sunscreen enhances the depigmenting efficacy of hydroquinone compared with UV‐only sunscreen in treatment of melasma. These findings suggest a role for VL in melasma pathogenesis.
Comments on ‘Geomechanical and Geochemical Evidence of Piezonuclear Fission Reactions in the Earth's Crust’ by A. Carpinteri and A. Manuello
Authors: Bardi U. , Comoretto G.
Published: November 2013

In ‘Geomechanical and Geochemical Evidence of Piezonuclear Fission Reactions in the Earth's Crust' [Carpinteri and Manuello, Strain (2011) 47(2), 267], the authors claim that the composition of the Earth's crust and of its atmosphere can be explained by hypothetical piezonuclear reactions. We argue that these claims are contrary to the known experimental evidence of the energy balance of the nuclear reactions involved, and we report a detailed criticism of the claims of the paper.
Report of a novel KIR3DS1*0130104 allele discovered using advanced molecular techniques
Authors: Yindom L.‐M. , Wang L. , Okala S. G. , Dong T. , Rowland‐Jones S. L.
Published: November 2013

KIR3DS1*0130104 is identical to KIR3DS1*0130101 except for changes at positions 1768 (C>T) and 12617 (C>A).
Detection of a novel HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*08:111, in an Italian bone marrow donor
Authors: Barzi C. , Vecchiato C. , Catalano M. , Grammatico P. , Moscetti A.
Published: November 2013

The newly detected HLA‐B*08:111 allele shows two nucleotide differences from B*08:01:01 in codons 113 and 114.
Aberrant gene expression in the Arabidopsis SULTR1;2 mutants suggests a possible regulatory role for this sulfate transporter in response to sulfur nutrient status
Authors: Zhang Bo , Pasini Rita , Dan Hanbin , Joshi Naveen , Zhao Yihong , Leustek Thomas , Zheng Zhi‐Liang
Published: November 2013

Sulfur is required for the biosynthesis of cysteine, methionine and numerous other metabolites, and thus is critical for cellular metabolism and various growth and developmental processes. Plants are able to sense their physiological state with respect to sulfur availability, but the sensor remains to be identified. Here we report the isolation and characterization of two novel allelic mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana, sel1‐15 and sel1‐16, which show increased expression of a sulfur deficiency‐activated gene β‐glucosidase 28 (BGLU28). The mutants, which represent two different missense alleles of SULTR1;2, which encodes a high‐affinity sulfate transporter, are defective in sulfate transport and as a result have a lower cellular sulfate level. However, when treated with a very high dose of sulfate, sel1‐15 and sel1‐16 accumulated similar amounts of internal sulfate and its metabolite glutathione (GSH) to wild‐type, but showed higher expression of BGLU28 and other sulfur deficiency‐activated genes than wild‐type. Reduced sensitivity to inhibition of gene expression was also observed in the sel1 mutants when fed with the sulfate metabolites Cys and GSH. In addition, a SULTR1;2 knockout allele also exhibits reduced inhibition in response to sulfate, Cys and GSH, consistent with the phenotype of sel1‐15 and sel1‐16. Taken together, the genetic evidence suggests that, in addition to its known function as a high‐affinity sulfate transporter, SULTR1;2 may have a regulatory role in response to sulfur nutrient status. The possibility that SULTR1;2 may function as a sensor of sulfur status or a component of a sulfur sensory mechanism is discussed.
Characteristics of Fully Developed Flow and Heat Transfer in Channels With Varying Wall Geometry
Authors: Ramgadia Abhishek G. , Saha Arun K.
Published: November 2013

Present study focuses on numerical investigation of fully developed flow and heat transfer through three channels having sine-shaped, triangle-shaped, and arc-shaped wall profiles. All computations are performed at Reynolds number of 600. Finite volume method on collocated grid is used to solve the time-dependent Navier–Stokes and energy equations in primitive variable form. For all the geometries considered in the study, the ratios Hmin/Hmax and L/a are kept fixed to 0.4 and 8.0, respectively. The thermal performances of all the three wall configurations are assessed using integral parameters as well as instantaneous, time-averaged and fluctuating flow fields. The geometry with the sinusoidal-shaped wall profile is found to produce the best thermal properties as compared to the triangle-shaped and the arc-shaped profiles though the obtained heat transfer is the highest for the arc-shaped geometry.
Self limiting deposition of pyrite absorbers by pulsed PECVD
Authors: Sentman Christopher D. , O'Brien Maria , Wolden Colin A.
Published: November 2013

Self-limiting growth of pyrite thin films was accomplished by pulsed plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) with continuous delivery of iron pentacarbonyl diluted in a mixture of H2S and argon. The growth rate per cycle was controlled between 0.1 and 1 Å/pulse by adjusting the duty cycle and/or plasma power. The onset of thermal chemical vapor deposition was identified at ∼300  °C, and this process resulted in films containing substoichiometric pyrrhotite. In contrast, pulsed PECVD produced stoichiometric FeS2 films without the need for postdeposition sulfurization. Films contained a mixture of pyrite and marcasite, though the latter could be attenuated using a combination of high duty cycle, low temperature, and low plasma power. Pulsed PECVD films displayed similar optical properties with a band gap of ∼1 eV and an absorption coefficient of ∼105 cm−1, regardless of the pyrite:marcasite ratio.
Epithelial Plasticity: A Common Theme in Embryonic and Cancer Cells
Authors: Nieto M. Angela
Published: November 2013

From Here to There

To form different tissues and organs, embryonic cells must migrate to new locations. Specific transcription factors, epigenetic and splicing programs, and microRNA regulatory networks regulate this process, which is known as the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). During EMT, considerable cellular plasticity is observed, and once activated at their new location, cells must again change into their new differentiated form. This “reverse” event is called the mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET).
Nieto
(p.
10.1126/science.1234850
) reviews EMT and MET as observed during normal development and in the generation of cancer when cells leave the primary tumor and travel to other parts of the body forming metastases and secondary tumors.
A Stem Cell Perspective on Cellular Engineering
Authors: Doulatov Sergei , Daley George Q.
Published: November 2013

Alternative ways of engineering cells in vitro are being tested to realize their therapeutic potential.
Hell and High Water: Practice-Relevant Adaptation Science
Authors: Moss R. H. , Meehl G. A. , Lemos M. C. , Smith J. B. , Arnold J. R. , Arnott J. C. , Behar D. , Brasseur G. P. , Broomell S. B. , Busalacchi A. J. , Dessai S. , Ebi K. L. , Edmonds J. A. , Furlow J. , Goddard L. , Hartmann H. C. , Hurrell J. W. , Katzenberger J. W. , Liverman D. M. , Mote P. W. , Moser S. C. , Kumar A. , Pulwarty R. S. , Seyller E. A. , Turner B. L. , Washington W. M. , Wilbanks T. J.
Published: November 2013

Adaptation requires science that analyzes decisions, identifies vulnerabilities, improves foresight, and develops options.
Ensuring Success for J-NIH
Authors: Kadowaki Takashi
Published: November 2013

On 30 August 2013, The Japanese government decided to reserve part of its 2014 budget for the launch of a control tower for medical research and development (MedR&D), which, modeled after the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States, has come to be known as the Japanese version of NIH (J-NIH). By integrating all MedR&D projects currently run by the government's compartmentalized ministries, the new institution is expected to ensure strategic budget allocations and facilitate a seamless flow from basic biomedical research to clinical applications.
Israel's Silent Polio Epidemic Breaks All the Rules
Authors: Roberts Leslie
Published: November 2013

A polio outbreak in Israel has had researchers scratching their heads.
Orbiting MAVEN Mission Set to Trace a Planet's History in Thin Martian Air
Authors: Bhattacharjee Yudhijit
Published: November 2013

MAVEN, a NASA spacecraft to be launched to Mars later this month, will try to decipher billions of years of planetary history from careful study of the martian atmosphere.
Endocarditis Caused by Rhodotorula Infection
Authors: Simon Matthew S. , Somersan Selin , Singh Harjot K. , Hartman Barry , Wickes Brian L. , Jenkins Stephen G. , Walsh Thomas J. , Schuetz Audrey N.
Published: November 2013

Rhodotorulais an emerging opportunistic fungal pathogen that is rarely reported to cause endocarditis. We describe a case involving a patient who developed endocarditis due toRhodotorula mucilaginosaandStaphylococcus epidermidis, proven by culture and histopathology. The case illustrates the unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges relevant toRhodotorulaspp.
Prevalence of Sequence Types among Clinical and Environmental Isolates of Legionella pneumophila Serogroup 1 in the United States from 1982 to 2012
Authors: Kozak-Muiznieks Natalia A. , Lucas Claressa E. , Brown Ellen , Pondo Tracy , Taylor Thomas H. , Frace Michael , Miskowski Diane , Winchell Jonas M.
Published: November 2013

Since the establishment of sequence-based typing as the gold standard for DNA-based typing of
Legionella pneumophila
, the
Legionella
laboratory at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has conducted routine sequence-based typing (SBT) analysis of all incoming
L. pneumophila
serogroup 1 (Lp1) isolates to identify potential links between cases and to better understand genetic diversity and clonal expansion among
L. pneumophila
bacteria. Retrospective genotyping of Lp1 isolates from sporadic cases and Legionnaires' disease (LD) outbreaks deposited into the CDC reference collection since 1982 has been completed. For this study, we compared the distribution of sequence types (STs) among Lp1 isolates implicated in 26 outbreaks in the United States, 571 clinical isolates from sporadic cases of LD in the United States, and 149 environmental isolates with no known association with LD. The Lp1 isolates under study had been deposited into our collection between 1982 and 2012. We identified 17 outbreak-associated STs, 153 sporadic STs, and 49 environmental STs. We observed that Lp1 STs from outbreaks and sporadic cases are more similar to each other than either group is to environmental STs. The most frequent ST for both sporadic and environmental isolates was ST1, accounting for 25% and 49% of the total number of isolates, respectively. The STs shared by both outbreak-associated and sporadic Lp1 included ST1, ST35, ST36, ST37, and ST222. The STs most commonly found in sporadic and outbreak-associated Lp1 populations may have an increased ability to cause disease and thus may require special attention when detected.
Bacteremia Caused by Microbacterium binotii in a Patient with Sickle Cell Anemia
Authors: Buss Sarah N. , Starlin Richard , Iwen Peter C.
Published: November 2013

Microbacterium
species are non-spore-forming, Gram-positive rods rarely associated with human disease. In this report, we describe the first case of bacteremia caused by
Microbacterium binotii
in a patient with sickle cell anemia. The utility of using 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis along with phenotypic methods for identification is shown.
Plasmid Copy Number and Disease Severity in Naturally Occurring Ocular Chlamydia trachomatis Infection
Authors: Last Anna R. , Roberts Chrissy h. , Cassama Eunice , Nabicassa Meno , Molina-Gonzalez Sandra , Burr Sarah E. , Mabey David C. W. , Bailey Robin L. , Holland Martin J.
Published: November 2013

The
Chlamydia trachomatis
plasmid is a virulence factor. Plasmid copy number,
C. trachomatis
load and disease severity were assessed in a treatment-naive population where trachoma is hyperendemic. By using droplet digital PCR, plasmid copy number was found to be stable (median, 5.34 [range, 1 to 18]) and there were no associations with
C. trachomatis
load or disease severity.
Detection of Intestinal Protozoa in the Clinical Laboratory
Authors: McHardy Ian H. , Wu Max , Shimizu-Cohen Robyn , Couturier Marc Roger , Humphries Romney M.
Published: November 2013

Despite recent advances in diagnostic technology, microscopic examination of stool specimens remains central to the diagnosis of most pathogenic intestinal protozoa. Microscopy is, however, labor-intensive and requires a skilled technologist. New, highly sensitive diagnostic methods have been developed for protozoa endemic to developed countries, includingGiardia lamblia(syn.G. intestinalis/G. duodenalis) andCryptosporidiumspp., using technologies that, if expanded, could effectively complement or even replace microscopic approaches. To date, the scope of such novel technologies is limited and may not include common protozoa such asDientamoeba fragilis,Entamoeba histolytica, orCyclospora cayetanensis. This minireview describes canonical approaches for the detection of pathogenic intestinal protozoa, while highlighting recent developments and FDA-approved tools for clinical diagnosis of common intestinal protozoa.
Comparison of Characteristics of Patients Infected by Campylobacter jejuni, Campylobacter coli, and Campylobacter fetus
Authors: Bessède Emilie , Lehours Philippe , Labadi Leila , Bakiri Sarah , Mégraud Francis
Published: November 2013

A large database of
Campylobacter
isolates precisely identified at the species level was used to compare patients' characteristics. In a multivariate analysis,
Campylobacter coli
was found more often in older patients and in patients having traveled abroad and less often in summertime than
Campylobacter jejuni
.
Campylobacter fetus
infection occurred in much older patients and in hospitalized patients with a systemic disease.