bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colorectal cancer prevention by an optimized colonoscopy protocol in routine practice
Authors: Xirasagar Sudha , Li Yi‐Jhen , Hurley Thomas G. , Tsai Meng‐Han , Hardin James W. , Hurley Deborah M. , Hebert James R. , de Groen Piet C.
Published: September 2014

We conducted a retrospective cohort study to investigate the colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality prevention achievable in clinical practice with an optimized colonoscopy protocol targeting near‐complete polyp clearance. The protocol consisted of: (i) telephonic reinforcement of bowel preparation instructions; (ii) active inspection for polyps throughout insertion and circumferential withdrawal; and (iii) timely updating of the protocol and documentation to incorporate the latest guidelines. Of 17,312 patients provided screening colonoscopies by 59 endoscopists in South Carolina, USA from September 2001 through December 2008, 997 were excluded using accepted exclusion criteria. Data on 16,315 patients were merged with the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry and Vital Records Registry data from January 1996 to December 2009 to identify incident CRC cases and deaths, incident lung cancers and brain cancer deaths (comparison control cancers). The standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and standardized mortality ratios (SMR) relative to South Carolina and US SEER‐18 population rates were calculated. Over 78,375 person‐years of observation, 18 patients developed CRC versus 104.11 expected for an SIR of 0.17, or 83% CRC protection, the rates being 68% and 91%, respectively among the adenoma‐ and adenoma‐free subgroups (all p < 0.001). Restricting the cohort to ensure minimum 5‐year follow‐up (mean follow‐up 6.64 years) did not change the results. The CRC mortality reduction was 89% (p < 0.001; four CRC deaths vs. 35.95 expected). The lung cancer SIR was 0.96 (p = 0.67), and brain cancer SMR was 0.92 (p = 0.35). Over 80% reduction in CRC incidence and mortality is achievable in routine practice by implementing key colonoscopy principles targeting near‐complete polyp clearance.
Gene expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells during treatment with a gene‐modified allogeneic tumor cell vaccine in advanced renal cell cancer: Tumor‐induced immunosuppression and a possible role for NF‐κB
Authors: Flörcken Anne , Grau Michael , Wolf Annette , Weilemann André , Kopp Joachim , Dörken Bernd , Blankenstein Thomas , Pezzutto Antonio , Lenz Peter , Lenz Georg , Westermann Jörg
Published: September 2014

Tumor‐induced immunosuppression remains a major challenge for immunotherapy of cancer patients. To further elucidate why an allogeneic gene‐modified [interleukin‐7 (IL‐7)/CD80‐cotransfected] renal cell cancer (RCC) vaccine failed to induce clinically relevant TH‐1‐polarized immune responses, peripheral blood mononuclear cells from enrolled study patients were analyzed by gene expression profiling (GEP) both prior and after vaccination. At baseline before vaccination, a profound downregulation of gene signatures associated with antigen presentation, immune response/T cells, cytokines/chemokines and signaling/transcription factors was observed in RCC patients as compared to healthy controls. Vaccination led to a partial reversion of preexisting immunosuppression, however, GEP indicated that an appropriate TH‐1 polarization could not be achieved. Most interestingly, our results suggest that the nuclear factor‐kappa B signaling pathway might be involved in the impairment of immunological responsiveness and the observed TH‐2 deviation. In summary, our data suggest that GEP might be a powerful tool for the prediction of immunosuppression and the monitoring of immune responses within immunotherapy trials.
Habitat type as strongest predictor of the body size distribution of Chydorus sphaericus (O. F. Müller) in small water bodies
Authors: Basińska Anna M. , Antczak Marcin , Świdnicki Kasper , Jassey Vincent E. J. , Kuczyńska‐Kippen Natalia
Published: September 2014

Chydorus sphaericus, a cladoceran characterized by a wide range of distribution, is often numerous in various water habitats. Its body size is a consequence of environmental characteristics and physiology. The aim of the study focused on the distribution of body size and densities of C. sphaericus in relation to environmental conditions represented by: (i) habitat types (elodeids, helophytes, and the open water); (ii) specific pond types (forest and field); (iii) pond size (surface area); (iv) the presence/lack of fish; and (v) physicochemical factors. Similar to large daphnids, in the case of the examined small water bodies, fish presence was responsible for a reduction of the body size of C. sphaericus in the zone of open water. More abundant crustacean communities and the presence of larger specimens were found among macrophytes, which indicated that aquatic vegetation offered optimal growth conditions as well as an effective refuge against fish predation. These facts reflect the necessity for maintaining a varied mosaic of habitats even in small water bodies such as the examined ponds. We found that not only the abundance of C. sphaericus but also its body size can be used as an bioindicator of environmental conditions as it preferred small and eutrophic ponds, particularly those with complex macrophyte cover (such as elodeids). Furthermore, the abundance pattern of zooplankton dominant species was affected by elodeids and fish presence as well as by the area of the ponds.
Comparison between alkali heat treatment and sprayed hydroxyapatite coating on thermally‐sprayed rough Ti surface in rabbit model: Effects on bone‐bonding ability and osteoconductivity
Authors: Kawai Toshiyuki , Takemoto Mitsuru , Fujibayashi Shunsuke , Tanaka Masashi , Akiyama Haruhiko , Nakamura Takashi , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: September 2014

In this study, we investigated the effect of different surface treatments (hydroxyapatite (HA) coating, alkali heat treatment, and no treatment) on the ability of bone to bond to a rough arc‐sprayed Ti metal surface, using rabbit models. The bone‐to‐implant contacts for untreated, HA‐coated, and alkali heat‐treated implants were 21.2%, 72.1%, and 33.8% at 4 weeks, 21.8%, 70.9%, and 30.0% at 8 weeks, and 16.3%, 70.2%, and 29.9% at 16 weeks, respectively (n = 8). HA ‐coated implants showed significantly higher bone‐to‐implant contacts than the untreated and alkali heat‐treated implants at all the time point, whereas alkali heat‐treated implants showed significantly higher bone‐to‐implant contacts than untreated implants at 4 and 16 weeks. The failure loads in a mechanical test for untreated, HA coated, alkali heat‐treated plates were 65.4 N, 70.7 N, and 90.8 N at 4 weeks, 76.1 N, 64.7 N, and 104.8 N at 8 weeks and 88.7 N, 92.6 N, and 118.5 N at 16 weeks, respectively (n = 8). The alkali heat‐treated plates showed significantly higher failure loads than HA‐coated plates at 8 and 16 weeks. The difference between HA‐coated plates and untreated plates were not statistically significant at any time point. Thus HA coating, although it enables high bone‐to‐implant contact, may not enhance the bone‐bonding properties of thermally‐sprayed rough Ti metal surfaces. In contrast, alkali heat treatment can be successfully applied to thermally‐sprayed Ti metal to enhance both bone‐to‐implant contact and bone‐bonding strength. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1069–1081, 2015.
Elevation of Serum Levels of Advanced Glycation End Products in Patients With Non‐B or Non‐C Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kan Hiromi , Yamagishi Sho‐ichi , Ojima Ayako , Fukami Kei , Ueda Seiji , Takeuchi Masayoshi , Hyogo Hideyuki , Aikata Hiroshi , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: September 2014

Background

The prevalence of non‐B or non‐C hepatocellular carcinoma (NBNC‐HCC) has been increasing all over the world. Advanced glycation end products (AGE) play a role in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver injury or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Methods

We examined here whether serum levels of AGE were elevated in NBNC‐HCC patients compared with NASH subjects without HCC and investigated which anthropometric and clinical variables were independent determinants of AGE.

Results

Ninety NBNC‐HCC, 56 NASH, and 27 control subjects underwent a complete history and physical examination, determination of blood chemistries, including AGE levels. Serum levels of AGE were significantly higher in NBNC‐HCC patients compared with NASH and control subjects [9.1 ± 2.7, 5.2 ± 1.7, 3.5 ± 1.2 (U/ml), respectively, P < 0.05]. Univariate analysis showed that AGE levels were associated with male (P < 0.05), age (P < 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (P < 0.05), γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) (P < 0.01), HDL‐cholesterol (inversely, P < 0.01), fasting plasma glucose (P < 0.01), and HbA1c (P < 0.05). By the use of multiple stepwise regression analysis, age, GGT, and HDL‐cholesterol (inversely) remained significant and were independently related to AGE levels (R2 = 0.406).

Conclusion

The present results suggest that AGE might be involved in the pathogenesis of NBNC‐HCC, thereby being a biomarker that could discriminate NBNC‐HCC from NASH.
The low‐temperature method for study of coniferous tissues in the environmental scanning electron microscope
Authors: Neděla Vilém , Tihlaříková Eva , Hřib Jiří
Published: September 2014

The use of non‐standard low‐temperature conditions in environmental scanning electron microscopy might be promising for the observation of coniferous tissues in their native state. This study is aimed to analyse and evaluate the method based on the principle of low‐temperature sample stabilization. We demonstrate that the upper mucous layer is sublimed and a microstructure of the sample surface can be observed with higher resolution at lower gas pressure conditions, thanks to a low‐temperature method. An influence of the low‐temperature method on sample stability was also studied. The results indicate that high‐moisture conditions are not suitable for this method and often cause the collapse of samples. The potential improvement of stability to beam damage has been demonstrated by long‐time observation at different operation parameters. We finally show high applicability of the low‐temperature method on different types of conifers and Oxalis acetosella. Microsc. Res. Tech., 78:13–21, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphological and chemical characterization of mineral concretions in the freshwater bivalve Anodonta cygnea (Unionidae)
Authors: Hinzmann Mariana F. , Lopes‐Lima Manuel , Bobos Iulius , Ferreira Jorge , Domingues Bernardo , Machado Jorge
Published: September 2014

The freshwater mussel Anodonta cygnea is commonly used as a model organism for biomineralization studies, its peculiar morphofunctional properties also make it an excellent environmental biomonitor. The first detailed on the calcareous concretions from gill and mantle tissue, as well as fluids of the freshwater bivalve A. cygnea, supported by histological, scanning, spectrometry, and spectroscopy analyses. Through these analyses, the morphology, structure, and chemical characterization of these biomineral concretions were accomplished. The concretions represent a high percentage of the dry weight of these organisms. In gill tissue, it can reach up to 50% of dry weight prior to reproductive maturity. Analysis of elemental composition of the tissue concretions showed the presence of calcium and phosphate, as main components, associated with other residual elements like iron, manganese, magnesium, and zinc. Concretions are arranged in concentric alternated layers of organic and inorganic matrix. The shape and size of the concretions vary substantially, from very small, less than 1 μm diameter with very regular round structure, found mainly in the mantle tissue, to more than 50 μm length with irregular globular clusters, found predominantly in the gills. The microstructural organization is of a hydroxyapatite polymorphism in the mantle, in contrast to the gills, which exhibit irregular structure and carbonated hydroxyapatite polymorphism. These differences are supported by higher contents of dinitrogen pentoxide, magnesium, and iron in the mantle concretions, but higher contents of manganese and zinc in the gills. Furthermore, the results indicate that the mineral concretion formation in A. cygnea is a hemocytes reaction to particle or toxic invasions. A second relevant role, concerns the close involvement of these microspherules on the adult and larval shell calcification. J. Morphol. 276:65–76, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Raman spectroscopy at different excitation wavelengths (1064, 785 and 532 nm) as a tool for diagnosis of colon cancer
Authors: Synytsya Alla , Judexova Miluse , Hoskovec David , Miskovicova Michaela , Petruzelka Lubos
Published: September 2014

Raman spectroscopy is structure sensitive non‐destructive method that allows observing the status of biological tissues with minimal impact. This method has a great potential in the diagnosis of various types of degenerative diseases including cancer damages. Near‐infrared Fourier transform (NIR‐FT)‐Raman (λex ~1064 nm), NIR‐visible (Vis)‐Raman (λex ~785 nm) and Vis‐Raman (λex ~532 nm) spectra of normal and colorectal carcinoma colon tissue samples were recorded in macroscopic mode at 10–20 randomly chosen independent sites. In the cases of NIR‐Vis‐ and Vis‐Raman spectra, enhanced resonance effects were observed for tissue chromophores absorbing in the visible area. Evident spectral differences were noticed for Raman spectra of normal colon tissue samples in comparison with abnormal samples. The average Raman spectra of colon tissue samples were analysed by principal component analysis (PCA) to discriminate normal and abnormal tissues. PCA of combined dataset containing Raman intensities of chosen NIR‐FT, NIR‐Vis or Vis‐Raman bands led to discrimination of normal and abnormal colon tissue samples. Therefore, combination of these three Raman methods can be helpful for recognizing cancer lesions in colon for diagnostic purposes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resonance Raman spectroscopic study of shape‐induced phase transition in CdSe nanoclusters
Authors: Dhara Sandip , Liu Chuan‐Pu , Chen Shu‐Fang , Eliseev Andrei A. , Petukhov Dmitry I.
Published: September 2014

We report an observation of shape‐induced phase transition from wurtzite to zinc blende phase of encapsulated CdSe nanoclusters in mesoporous silica. Presence of both the phases is also observed in the as‐grown sample before encapsulation. Role of interfacial energy in the energetic mesopores, as the possible origin of phase transition, is thus ruled out, as the samples are encapsulated subsequent to their synthesis in the soft chemistry route. Electron–phonon coupling in the resonant Raman spectroscopic studies, using different energies for clusters of different phase and shape, thereby confirms the presence of both the wurtzite and the zinc blende phases. Transmission electron microscopic studies are used for the direct evidence of the shape‐induced solid–solid phase transition between two crystalline phases, for the first time. Small fluctuation of energies, in the form of shape, during its growth may be the driving force for the observed phenomenon, as the surface energy of both the phases stabilizes to the same value. Thus, finally, specific shapes can be used as one of the ways to differentiate the resulting phases. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymeric Suppression of Dopant‐Enhanced Surfactant Supramicellar Assemblies
Authors: Zhu Zifu , Reed Wayne F.
Published: September 2014

Certain hydrophobic dopants in surfactant solutions cause massive “supramicellar assemblies” (SAs) to form near the critical micelle concentration (CMC), characterized by a light‐scattering peak (LSP). The SAs are large, dynamic, metastable nanostructures composed of surfactant/dopant. Here, a water‐soluble polymer, poly(vinylpyrollidone) (PVP) suppresses SA formation in sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solutions doped with dodecanol, but increases solution instability. Binding of SDS to PVP is stronger than micellization in the LSP regime, reflected in a decreased SA population and a dramatic reduction and inversion of Rayleigh scattering IR as [PVP] increases, since SAs are much more massive than PVP/SDS association structures. Above the LSP regime, SAs no longer exist and thus IR must re‐establish its order, increasing with increasing [PVP]. This causes a cross‐over in IR vs [SDS] with an “iso‐scattering point,” where IR converges at a specific [SDS]. Weak LSP suppression is found using dodecyl tri­ethyl ammonium bromide (DTAB). Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)’s effect is small compared with PVP.

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Triphenylamine‐Based Fluorescent Soft Matter: Interlaced Methyl Cinnamate Groups as the Dominant Interaction Tools for Gel Formation
Authors: Ma Hengchang , Ma Yuan , Li Wenfeng , Wang Feng , Zhu Fuping , Qi Chunxuan , Zhang Zhongwei , Yao Xiaoqiang , Lei Ziqiang
Published: September 2014

Novel low‐molecular‐weight organic gelators (LMOGs) with propeller‐shaped triphenylamine as a “core” and tiny methyl acrylate groups as “tails,” are developed, which would not be thought to be a candidate for gel formation due to the absence of planar rigid aromatic building blocks and long‐chain alkyls. The sensitive gel–sol transformation can be easily achieved upon heating or cooling accompanied by molecular aggregation or disaggregation. H–H 2D NOESY is employed to prove that the π–π stacking between the interlaced tiny “tails” and the interaction between the superimposed phenyl and carbonyl groups of adjacent mole­cules are the dominant interaction forces. What is more, this soft interaction model can be regarded as a powerful tool in the design and construction of supramolecular structures in the future. At present, tris(4‐methyl cinnamate)amine synthesized by a single step, but with a gel‐formation ability and an aggrega­tion‐induced fluorescence emission property, has great potential application as functional soft matter in amorphous materials, photoelectric materials, and so on.

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Thiol‐based redox proteomics in cancer research
Authors: Yuan Kefei , Liu Yuan , Chen Hai‐Ning , Zhang Lu , Lan Jiang , Gao Wei , Dou Qianhui , Nice Edouard C. , Huang Canhua
Published: September 2014

Cancer cells maintain their intracellular ROS concentrations at required levels for their survival. Changes in ROS concentrations can regulate biochemical signaling mechanisms that control cell function. It has been demonstrated that ROS regulate the cellular events through redox regulation of redox‐sensitive proteins (redox sensors). Upon oxidative stress, redox sensors undergo redox modifications that cause the allosteric changes of these proteins and endow them with different functions. Understanding the altered functions of redox sensors and the underlying mechanisms is critical for the development of novel cancer therapeutics. Recently, a series of high‐throughput proteomics approaches have been developed for screening redox processes. In this manuscript, we review these methodologies and discuss the important redox sensors recently identified that are related to cancer.
Patterns and predictors of disclosure of a diagnosis of cancer
Authors: Munro Heather , Scott Suzanne E. , King Alex , Grunfeld Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2014

Background

The value of talking (i.e. disclosing ones innermost thoughts and feelings) has been recognised as playing an important role in helping people work through their difficulties. Although disclosing a diagnosis of cancer has been identified to be one of the hardest aspects of having the disease, relatively little is known about the extent to which people talk about their diagnosis of cancer. This study aimed to identify disclosure patterns among patients with cancer and to determine the factors associated with disclosure.

Methods

Patients (n = 120) who had received a diagnosis of either lung, colorectal or skin cancer completed a questionnaire assessing potential psychosocial predictors of disclosure.

Results

Results indicated that the majority of patients (95%) found it helpful to disclose information and did so to a variety of social targets, with the highest levels of disclosure being reported to medical personnel (38% talked ‘very much’), followed by family members (24%) and then friends (12%). There were no differences in disclosure across cancer types, with the exception of patients with colorectal cancer who disclosed information more to nurses and other cancer patients. Men disclosed information more than women to some social targets. Dispositional openness (B = .233, p < 0.05) and treatment type (B = −.240, p < 0.01) were found to predict 13% of the variance in degree of disclosure.

Conclusions

The results suggest that individual differences and social and clinical factors impact on disclosure and that medical professionals play an important role in the disclosure process. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trajectories of personal control in cancer patients receiving psychological care
Authors: Zhu Lei , Schroevers Maya J. , van der Lee Marije , Garssen Bert , Stewart Roy E. , Sanderman Robbert , Ranchor Adelita V.
Published: September 2014

Objective

This study aimed to (1) identify subgroups of cancer patients with distinct personal control trajectories during psychological care, (2) examine whether socio‐demographic, clinical, and psychological care characteristics could distinguish trajectories, and (3) examine differential patterns of psychological symptoms between trajectories.

Methods

This naturalistic study focused on 241 cancer patients receiving psychological care at psycho‐oncology institutions. Data were collected before the initiation of psychological care, and 3 and 9 months thereafter. Latent class growth analysis was applied to identify personal control trajectories.

Results

Three personal control trajectories were identified: enduring improvement (41%), temporary improvement (50%), and deterioration (9%). Education and baseline physical symptoms distinguished these trajectories. In the whole group, improvements in personal control were associated with improvements in psychological symptoms. Patients at distinct trajectories reported different levels of psychological symptoms, but did not differ in their courses of psychological symptoms. Patients in the enduring and temporary control improvement groups experienced significant psychological symptoms reductions over time, whereas patients in the control deterioration group maintained high psychological symptoms.

Conclusions

Improvements in personal control seem to depend on initial control level: those who start with the highest control levels show subsequent improvements, whereas those with the lowest control levels show subsequent deterioration. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The New Literacies of Online Research and Comprehension: Rethinking the Reading Achievement Gap
Authors: Leu Donald J. , Forzani Elena , Rhoads Chris , Maykel Cheryl , Kennedy Clint , Timbrell Nicole
Published: September 2014

Is there an achievement gap for online reading ability based on income inequality that is separate from the achievement gap in traditional, offline reading? This possibility was examined between students in two pseudonymous school districts: West Town (economically advantaged) and East Town (economically challenged;N = 256). Performance‐based assessments were used within a simulation of the Internet developed as part of a larger project. Seventh graders completed two online research and comprehension assessments, which evaluated four skill areas (locate, evaluate, synthesize, and communicate) and two knowledge domains in science. Students also completed an assessment of prior domain knowledge and a short Internet use questionnaire. Standardized state reading and writing test scores served as measures of offline literacy skills. Results indicated that there was a significant achievement gap favoring West Town students in offline reading scores, offline writing scores, and online research and comprehension scores. A significant gap persisted for online research and comprehension after we conditioned on pretest differences in offline reading, offline writing, and prior knowledge scores. The results of the questionnaire indicated that West Town students had greater access to the Internet at home and were required to use the Internet more in school. These results suggest that a separate and independent achievement gap existed for online reading, based on income inequality. Current estimates of this gap, which rely solely on measures of offline reading, may underrepresent the true nature of the U.S. reading achievement gap in an online age. Policy implications are explored.
Stepwise two‐stage sample size adaptation
Authors: Wan Hong , Ellenberg Susan S. , Anderson Keaven M.
Published: September 2014

Several adaptive design methods have been proposed to reestimate sample size using the observed treatment effect after an initial stage of a clinical trial while preserving the overall type I error at the time of the final analysis. One unfortunate property of the algorithms used in some methods is that they can be inverted to reveal the exact treatment effect at the interim analysis. We propose using a step function with an inverted U‐shape of observed treatment difference for sample size reestimation to lessen the information on treatment effect revealed. This will be referred to as stepwise two‐stage sample size adaptation. This method applies calculation methods used for group sequential designs. We minimize expected sample size among a class of these designs and compare efficiency with the fully optimized two‐stage design, optimal two‐stage group sequential design, and designs based on promising conditional power. The trade‐off between efficiency versus the improved blinding of the interim treatment effect will be discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conceptualizing Research‐Driven Practice and the Wabash National Study
Authors: Martin Georgianna L. , Hevel Michael S. , Barber James P.
Published: September 2014

This chapter explores the concept of research‐driven practice in student affairs and provides an overview of the Wabash National Study of Liberal Arts Education.
Fetal fraction of cell‐free DNA in maternal plasma in the prediction of spontaneous preterm delivery
Authors: Quezada M. S. , Francisco C. , Dumitrascu‐Biris D. , Nicolaides K. H. , Poon L. C.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To investigate whether, in pregnancies complicated by spontaneous preterm delivery, fetal fraction of cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) in maternal plasma at 11–13 weeks' gestation is altered and if this measurement could be useful in the prediction of preterm delivery.

Methods

Fetal fraction of cfDNA was measured at 10 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation in 3169 pregnancies, 3066 (96.7%) that delivered at ≥ 37 weeks and 103 (3.3%) with spontaneous delivery at < 37 weeks, including 21 that delivered at < 34 weeks and 82 that delivered at 34–37 weeks. The measured fetal fraction was converted to multiples of the median (MoM), corrected for maternal characteristics and gestational age, and the Mann–Whitney U‐test was used to determine the significance of differences in the median values in the spontaneous preterm delivery groups from that in the term delivery group.

Results

In the spontaneous preterm delivery groups (< 34 weeks' gestation, 34–37 weeks, < 37 weeks), compared to the term delivery group, there was no significant difference in the median fetal fraction MoM (1.004, 0.922 and 0.946, respectively, vs 1.015).

Conclusion

Measurement of fetal fraction in maternal plasma at 11–13 weeks' gestation is not predictive of spontaneous preterm delivery. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
A worldwide survey of laser surgery for twin–twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Akkermans J. , Peeters S. H. P. , Middeldorp J. M. , Klumper F. J. , Lopriore E. , Ryan G. , Oepkes D.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To evaluate differences between international fetal centers in their treatment of twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) by fetoscopic placental laser coagulation.

Methods

Fetal therapy centers worldwide were sent a web‐based questionnaire. Participants were identified through networks and through scientific presentations and papers. Questions included physician and center demographics, treatment criteria, operative technique and instrumentation. Laser treatment was compared between low‐volume (< 20 procedures/year) and high‐volume (≥ 20 procedures/year) centers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Of 106 fetal therapy specialists approached, 76 (72%) from 64 centers in 25 countries responded. Of these, 48% (31/64) of centers and 63% (48/76) of operators performed fewer than 20 laser procedures annually. Comparison of low‐ and high‐volume centers showed differences in technique, gestational age limits for treatment and geography. High‐volume centers more often used the Solomon technique and applied wider gestational age limits for treatment. Europe and Asia had more high‐volume centers, whereas South America, the Middle East and Australia had mainly low‐volume centers.

Conclusion

This survey revealed significant differences between fetal centers in several aspects of fetoscopic placental laser therapy for TTTS. Increasing awareness of TTTS, and of laser coagulation as its preferred treatment, will lead to an increase in centers offering this modality, especially in Asia, Africa, South America and the Middle East. Considering the rarity of TTTS and the relative complexity of the procedure, developing international guidelines for techniques, instrumentation and suggested minimum volumes per center may aid in optimizing perinatal outcome. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
The cost of autotomy caused by the parasitoid flyBlaesoxipha japonensis(Diptera: Sarcophagidae): an interspecific comparison between two sympatric grasshopper host species
Authors: Miura Kazumi , Ohsaki Naota
Published: September 2014

In insects, while much is known about how autotomy, the loss of a host's hind leg(s), affects locomotion, mating and escape from predators, little is known about the effects of such loss on mortality caused by a parasitoid fly in natural habitat. We tested to see if host mortality caused by the parasitoid fly,Blaesoxipha japonensis, was related to the presence or absence of a hind leg(s) in two closely related, sympatric grasshopper species,Parapodisma tanbaensisandP. subastris. After capturing adult grasshoppers of both species in the same three locations simultaneously for 2 years, we assessed whetherB.japonensiscaused the death of a host by rearing these captured grasshoppers until they died. The results showed that autotomy significantly affected the mortality caused byB.japonensisinP.subastrisadults, but not inP. tanbaensisadults. This suggests that the increased mortality caused by parasitoids can be one of the costs of autotomy inP.subastrisin its natural habitat, and that the mortality effect caused byB.japonensisin autotomized adults may differ based on behavioral, physiological, and/or ecological factors that differ between these two sympatricParapodismaspecies.
Asymptotic bifurcation and second order elliptic equations on \( R^{N} \)
Authors: Stuart C.A.
Published: September 2014

This paper deals with asymptotic bifurcation, first in the abstract setting of an equation

G(u) = \lambda u

, where
G
acts between real Hilbert spaces and

\lambda \in \mathbb{R}

, and then for square-integrable solutions of a second order non-linear elliptic equation on

\mathbb{R}^{N}

. The novel feature of this work is that
G
is not required to be asymptotically linear in the usual sense since this condition is not appropriate for the application to the elliptic problem. Instead,
G
is only required to be Hadamard asymptotically linear and we give conditions ensuring that there is asymptotic bifurcation at eigenvalues of odd multiplicity of the H-asymptotic derivative which are sufficiently far from the essential spectrum. The latter restriction is justified since we also show that for some elliptic equations there is no asymptotic bifurcation at a simple eigenvalue of the H-asymptotic derivative if it is too close to the essential spectrum.
A Comprehensive Transcriptomic Analysis of Infant and Adult Mouse Ovary
Authors: Pan Linlin , Gong Wei , Zhou Yuanyuan , Li Xiaonuan , Yu Jun , Hu Songnian
Published: September 2014

Ovary development is a complex process involving numerous genes. A well-developed ovary is essential for females to keep fertility and reproduce offspring. In order to gain a better insight into the molecular mechanisms related to the process of mammalian ovary development, we performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis on ovaries isolated from infant and adult mice by using next-generation sequencing technology (SOLiD). We identified 15,454 and 16,646 transcriptionally active genes at the infant and adult stage, respectively. Among these genes, we also identified 7021 differentially expressed genes. Our analysis suggests that, in general, the adult ovary has a higher level of transcriptomic activity. However, it appears that genes related to primordial follicle development, such as those encoding Figla and Nobox, are more active in the infant ovary, whereas expression of genes vital for follicle development, such as Gdf9, Bmp4 and Bmp15, is upregulated in the adult. These data suggest a dynamic shift in gene expression during ovary development and it is apparent that these changes function to facilitate follicle maturation, when additional functional gene studies are considered. Furthermore, our investigation has also revealed several important functional pathways, such as apoptosis, MAPK and steroid biosynthesis, that appear to be much more active in the adult ovary compared to those of the infant. These findings will provide a solid foundation for future studies on ovary development in mice and other mammals and help to expand our understanding of the complex molecular and cellular events that occur during postnatal ovary development.
Subjective cognitive concerns, episodic memory, and the APOE ε4 allele
Authors: Samieri Cécilia , Proust‐Lima Cécile , M. Glymour Maria , Okereke Olivia I. , Amariglio Rebecca E. , Sperling Reisa A. , Rentz Dorene M. , Grodstein Francine
Published: September 2014

Background

Subjective cognitive concerns may represent a simple method to assess likelihood of memory decline among apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 carriers.

Methods

We examined the relationship of self‐reported subjective cognitive concerns, using seven specific cognitive concerns, with memory and memory decline over 6 years among APOE ε4 carriers and non‐carriers from the Nurses' Health Study.

Results

In both groups, increasing subjective cognitive concern score predicted worse baseline memory and faster rates of subsequent memory decline, after adjustment for age, education and depression. The relation with baseline memory appeared statistically stronger in APOE ε4 carriers (P‐interaction = 0.03). For memory decline, mean differences in slopes of episodic memory (95% CI) for 4 to 7 versus no concern = −0.05 (−0.10, 0.01) standard units in APOE ε4 carriers, and −0.04 (−0.08, −0.01) standard units in non‐carriers.

Conclusions

APOE ε4 carriers with self‐assessed cognitive concerns appear to have worse memory, and possibly accelerated memory decline.
QRS–ST–T triangulation with repolarization shortening as a precursor of sustained ventricular tachycardia during acute myocardial ischemia
Authors: Batchvarov Velislav N. , Behr Elijah R.
Published: September 2014

We present segments from a 24‐hour 12‐lead digital Holter recording in a 48‐year‐old man demonstrating transient ST elevations in the inferior leads that triggered sustained ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation (VT/VF) requiring cardioversion. The onset of VT was preceded by a gradual increase in the ST with marked QRS broadening that lacked distinction between the end of the QRS and the beginning of the ST (QRS–ST–T “triangulation”), and shortening of the QT interval not caused by an increased heart rate. This is a relatively rare documentation of the mechanisms immediately triggering sustained ventricular arrhythmias during acute myocardial ischemia obtained with 12‐lead ECG.
Comparison of Stability Limits in Men With Traumatic Transtibial Amputation and a Nonamputee Control Group
Authors: Molero‐Sánchez Alberto , Molina‐Rueda Francisco , Alguacil‐Diego Isabel M. , Cano‐de la Cuerda Roberto , Miangolarra‐Page Juan Carlos
Published: September 2014

Background

Currently, knowledge is lacking about whether subjects with traumatic unilateral transtibial amputation (UTA) have a compromised ability to voluntarily move their center of gravity (COG) to positions within the limits of stability.

Objective

To analyze the ability to voluntarily move the COG to positions within the limits of stability in a sample of subjects with traumatic UTA.

Design

Observational, case‐control study.

Setting

University department.

Participants

Ten men with traumatic UTA and 10 control subjects without amputation.

Main Outcome Measures

Computerized dynamic posturography SMART EquiTEST System version 8.0 was used for measuring stability limits in both groups. The Limits of Stability test was used to assess the participants' ability to voluntarily sway to various locations in space (8 predetermined target positions).

Results

End point excursion achieved statistically significant differences in the prosthetic (P = .02) and backward (P = .03) directions in the subjects with UTA. A statistically significant decrease was observed in the maximum excursion to backward direction (P = .05) in the subjects with UTA. Directional control only reached statistically significant differences in the prosthetic backward direction (P = .05) compared with the control group. Movement velocity was statistically significantly lower in the subjects with UTA toward prosthetic (P = .03), backward (P = .05), sound (P = .01), and sound forward (P = .03) directions in relation to the control group.

Conclusions

Persons with traumatic UTA have a reduced ability to move their COG within stability limits (restricted displacement, inadequate directional control, and reduced velocity). These findings should be considered when developing rehabilitation programs for these persons.
What explains the lack of monetary policy influence on bank holding companies?
Authors: Mamun Abdullah , Hassan M. Kabir
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we investigate how monetary policy innovations affect the equity returns of bank holding companies (BHCs). We also examine bank characteristics to determine what explains the cross‐sectional and time‐series variation in the returns' sensitivity. Similar to non‐financial firms, we find that only unanticipated components affect bank equity returns; however, this effect is absent in the second half of our sample period. Smaller, less liquid banks have higher sensitivity; a higher ratio of time deposits to total deposits reduces this sensitivity. A higher ratio of non‐interest income to total income also reduces this sensitivity, while capital‐constrained banks have a higher sensitivity to monetary policy innovations. We argue that a higher dependence on non‐interest income and the use of interest rate derivatives together may explain the disappearing influence of monetary policy on these BHCs.
An examination of childhood trauma in individuals attending an adult mental health service
Authors: Wota A. P. , Byrne C. , Murray I. , Ofuafor T. , Nisar Z. , Neuner F. , Hallahan B. P.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

Childhood sexual abuse has previously been associated with adult mental health difficulties, however, few studies have evaluated all forms of childhood maltreatment in individuals attending adult mental health services. Consequently, this study investigates the association of five forms of childhood trauma with a range of clinical symptoms and mental health disorders in 136 individuals attending a mental health service in Ireland utilising the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ).

Method

One hundred and thirty-six patients attending the Roscommon Mental Health Services completed the CTQ and a number of additional psychometric instruments evaluating illness severity, impulsivity, disability and the presence of a personality disorder(s) (PD) to ascertain the prevalence of childhood trauma and any potential associations between childhood trauma and a range of demographic and clinical factors.

Result

Seventy-six per cent of individuals reported childhood trauma, with emotional neglect most frequently reported (61%). Individuals who had experienced childhood trauma had higher rates of clinical symptoms, distress and impulsivity. Substance abuse and paranoid, borderline and antisocial PDs most associated with childhood trauma.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the need to routinely elicit information on all forms of childhood traumatic experiences from patients.
Unconfined turbulent entrainment across density interfaces
Authors: Shrinivas Ajay B. , Hunt Gary R.
Published: September 2014

We present theoretical models describing the quasi-steady downward transport of buoyant fluid across a gravitationally stable density interface separating two unbounded quiescent fluid masses. The primary transport mechanism is turbulent entrainment resulting from the localised impingement of a vertically forced high-Reynolds-number axisymmetric jet with steady source conditions. The entrainment across the interface is examined in the large-time asymptotic state, wherein the interfacial gravity current, formed by the fluid entrained from the upper layer and the jet, becomes infinitesimally thin and a two-layer stratification persists. Characterising flows with small interfacial Froude numbers $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}({{\mathrm{Fr}}}_i)$ as an axisymmetric semi-ellipsoidal impingement dome, we combine conservation equations with a mechanistic model of entrainment and reveal that, in this regime, the dimensionless entrainment flux $E_i$ across the interface follows the power law $E_i = 0.24{{\mathrm{Fr}}}_i^2$. For large-${{\mathrm{Fr}}}_i$ impingements, modelled as a fully penetrating turbulent fountain, we show that $E_i$ no longer scales with ${{\mathrm{Fr}}}_i^2$, but linearly on ${{\mathrm{Fr}}}_i$, following $E_i = 0.42{{\mathrm{Fr}}}_i$. We establish the intermediate range of ${{\mathrm{Fr}}}_i$ over which there is a transition between these quadratic and linear power laws, thus enabling us to classify the dynamics of entrainment across the interface into three distinct regimes. Finally, the close agreement of our solutions with existing experimental results is illustrated.
Intermittency in the relative separations of tracers and of heavy particles in turbulent flows
Authors: Biferale L. , Lanotte A. S. , Scatamacchia R. , Toschi F.
Published: September 2014

Results from direct numerical simulations (DNS) of particle relative dispersion in three-dimensional homogeneous and isotropic turbulence at Reynolds number $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}{\mathit{Re}}_{\lambda } \sim 300$ are presented. We study point-like passive tracers and heavy particles, at Stokes number $\mathit{St}=0.6,1$ and 5. Particles are emitted from localised sources, in bunches of thousands, periodically in time, allowing an unprecedented statistical accuracy to be reached, with a total number of events for two-point observables of the order of ${10^{11}}$. The right tail of the probability density function (PDF) for tracers develops a clear deviation from Richardson’s self-similar prediction, pointing to the intermittent nature of the dispersion process. In our numerical experiment, such deviations are manifest once the probability to measure an event becomes of the order of – or rarer than – one part over one million, hence the crucial importance of a large dataset. The role of finite-Reynolds-number effects and the related fluctuations when pair separations cross the boundary between viscous and inertial range scales are discussed. An asymptotic prediction based on the multifractal theory for inertial range intermittency and valid for large Reynolds numbers is found to agree with the data better than the Richardson theory. The agreement is improved when considering heavy particles, whose inertia filters out viscous scale fluctuations. By using the exit-time statistics we also show that events associated with pairs experiencing unusually slow inertial range separations have a non-self-similar PDF.
A Quantitative Method for Substantive Robustness Assessment
Authors: Esarey Justin , Danneman Nathan
Published: September 2014

Empirical political science is not simply about reporting evidence; it is also about coming to conclusions on the basis of that evidence and acting on those conclusions. But whether a result is substantively significant––strong and certain enough to justify acting upon the belief that the null hypothesis is false––is difficult to objectively pin down, in part because different researchers have different standards for interpreting evidence. Instead, this article advocates judging results according to their “substantive robustness,” the degree to which a community with heterogeneous standards for interpreting evidence would agree that the result is substantively significant. This study illustrates how this can be done using Bayesian statistical decision techniques. Judging results in this way yields a tangible benefit: false positives are reduced without decreasing the power of the test, thus decreasing the error rate in published results.
Postprandial phase time influences the uptake of TAG from postprandial TAG-rich lipoproteins by THP-1 macrophages
Authors: Cabello-Moruno Rosana , Sinausia Laura , Botham Kathleen M. , Montero Emilio , Avella Michael , Perona Javier S.
Published: September 2014

Postprandial TAG-rich lipoproteins (TRL) can be taken up by macrophages, leading to the formation of foam cells, probably via receptor-mediated pathways. The present study was conducted to investigate whether the postprandial time point at which TRL are collected modulates this process. A meal containing refined olive oil was given to nine healthy young men and TRL were isolated from their serum at 2, 4 and 6 h postprandially. The lipid class and apoB compositions of TRL were determined by HPLC and SDS–PAGE, respectively. The accumulation of lipids in macrophages was determined after the incubation of THP-1 macrophages with TRL. The gene expression of candidate receptors was measured by real-time PCR. The highest concentrations of TAG, apoB48 and apoB100 in TRL were observed at 2 h after the consumption of the test meal. However, excessive intracellular TAG accumulation in THP-1 macrophages was observed in response to incubation with TRL isolated at 4 h, when their particle size (estimated as the TAG:apoB ratio) was intermediate. The abundance of mRNA transcripts in macrophages in response to incubation with TRL was down-regulated for LDL receptor (LDLR), slightly up-regulated for VLDL receptor and remained unaltered for LDLR-related protein, but no effect of the postprandial time point was observed. In contrast, the mRNA expression of scavenger receptorsSRB1,SRA2andCD36was higher when cells were incubated with TRL isolated at 4 h after the consumption of the test meal. In conclusion, TRL led to excessive intracellular TAG accumulation in THP-1 macrophages, which was greater when cells were incubated with intermediate-sized postprandial TRL isolated at 4 h and was associated with a significant increase in the mRNA expression of scavenger receptors.