bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical‐radiological, histological and genetic analyses in a lung transplant recipient with Mounier–Kuhn syndrome and end‐stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Mitterbauer Andreas , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Birner Peter , Mildner Michael , Prosch Helmut , Streubel Berthold , Taghavi Shahrokh , Klepetko Walter , Ankersmit Hendrik Jan 
Published: April 2014

AbstractBackground and AimsThe Mounier–Kuhn syndrome (MKS) is a rare disease characterized by a pathological dilation of the trachea and the bronchial system. The etiology of the disorder remains elusive, but genetic alterations and degradation of elastic fibers are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis. No causative treatment is available although transplantation is an option for end‐stage disease. Here, we describe a patient suffering from MKS who received a double lung transplant at our department.MethodsSince a familial clustering of MKS is discussed in the literature, we performed a chromosomal analysis and an array‐comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) to search for genetic abnormalities. At the time of transplantation, we collected samples from the bronchi and performed hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Elastic von‐Gieson (EVG) and immunohistochemical stains of the explanted MKS bronchus, a control bronchus and of the inflammatory infiltrates. Specimens of main bronchi from the donor lung harvested for transplant served as control. Bronchial smears were taken from both main bronchi of the recipient for microbiological cultures.ResultsNo genetic alterations could be found in chromosomal analysis and in array‐CGH. Histological analysis revealed a strong reduction of elastic fibers in the submucosal connective tissue and a diffuse inflammatory infiltrate, mainly comprised of CD4+ cells. In addition, immunohistochemistry showed increased matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) protein expression of MMP‐1, 2, 3 and 9.ConclusionsBased on our findings, we hypothesize that MKS is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by an MMP‐mediated degradation of submucosal elastic fibers.
Identifying the driving factors behind observed elevational range shifts onEuropean mountains
Authors: Grytnes John‐Arvid , Kapfer Jutta , Jurasinski Gerald , Birks Hilary H. , Henriksen Hanne , Klanderud Kari , Odland Arvid , Ohlson Mikael , Wipf Sonja , Birks H. John B. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractAimIn recent decades species ranges have shifted upwards in elevation and northwards in latitude. These shifts are commonly interpreted as a response to recent climate warming. However, several alternative hypotheses have been proposed to explain the elevational shifts, including increased deposition of atmospheric nitrogen, changes in precipitation and dispersal limitation. We evaluate these hypotheses and attempt to identify the dominant drivers for the observed shifts in the upper range limits of alpine plant species.LocationEuropean mountains fromSvalbard to the southernAlps.MethodsWe assembled data on observed shifts in the upper range limit of alpine plants over 40 to 100 years on 114 mountains. We related the observed shifts to recent changes in temperature and precipitation and to recent deposition of atmospheric nitrogen. Changes in traits and habitat preferences of species in the summit assemblages were used to evaluate the potential role of different drivers.ResultsSeventy per cent of the species that showed a detectable change in their upper range limits between surveys shifted their range limits upwards. The same species tend to move up on different mountains. There are, however, large differences between mountains in the proportion of species shifting upwards. This proportion is not found to be statistically related to local changes in temperature. Correspondingly, warmth‐demanding species did not move upward more frequently than expected by chance. Snow‐bed species have become more common on summits.Main conclusionsOur data do not support the idea that climate warming is the dominant factor causing the observed range shifts of alpine plant species on European mountains: first, the amount of change in species assemblages on the summits studied is not related statistically to the amount of climate warming; second, those species that have moved upwards are not particularly warmth demanding.
Genome‐wide survey of transcriptional initiation in the pathogenic fungus, Candida glabrata
Authors: Aoyama Toshihiro , Nakayama Hironobu , Ueno Keigo , Inukai Tatsuya , Tanabe Koichi , Nagi Minoru , Bard Martin , Chibana Hiroji 
Published: April 2014

DNA sequencing of the 5′‐flanking region of the transcriptome effectively identifies transcription initiation sites and also aids in identifying unknown genes. This study describes a comprehensive polling of transcription start sites and an analysis of full‐length complementary DNAs derived from the genome of the pathogenic fungus Candida glabrata. A comparison of the sequence reads derived from a cDNA library prepared from cells grown under different culture conditions against the reference genomic sequence of the Candida Genome Database (CGD: http://www.candidagenome.org/) revealed the expression of 4316 genes and their acknowledged transcription start sites (TSSs). In addition this analysis also predicted 59 new genes including 22 that showed no homology to the genome of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a genetically close relative of C. glabrata. Furthermore, comparison of the 5′‐untranslated regions (5′‐UTRs) and core promoters of C. glabrata to those of S. cerevisiae showed various global similarities and differences among orthologous genes. Thus, the C. glabrata transcriptome can complement the annotation of the genome database and should provide new insights into the organization, regulation, and function of genes of this important human pathogen.
Atrial fibrillation in patients with haemophilia: a cross‐sectional evaluation in Europe
Authors: Schutgens Roger E. G. , Klamroth R. , Pabinger I. , Malerba M. , Dolan G. ,   the ADVANCE working group
Published: April 2014

SummaryAtrial fibrillation (AF) is a common health problem in the general population, but data on prevalence or management in patients with haemophilia (PWH) are lacking. The aims of this study were to analyse the prevalence of AF and risk factors for stroke using a cross‐sectional pan‐European design and to document current anticoagulation practice. The ADVANCE Working Group consists of members from 14 European haemophilia centres. Each centre retrieved data on their PWH with AF. From the total of 3952 adult PWH, 33 had AF with a mean age of 69 years (IQR 62–76). Haemophilia was severe in seven (21%), moderate in six (18%) and mild in 20 (61%) patients. The overall AF prevalence was 0.84% and increased with age; 0.42% in patients 40–60 years and 3.4% in patients >60 years. The mean CHA2DS2‐Vasc score was 1.3 (range 0–4), predominantly determined by age and hypertension. Hypertension was reported in 48% of PWH with AF. In 11 patients (33%), anticoagulation was started of whom nine aspirin and two vitamin K antagonists. Of these 11 patients, nine had mild haemophilia. Anticoagulation was given in 42% of patients with a CHA2DS2‐Vasc score ≥2. During follow‐up (mean 57 months), there were no thrombotic events reported, nor increases in bleeding severity. The prevalence of AF in haemophilia increases with age and is predominantly present in mild haemophilia. PWH have a low stroke risk based on their CHA2DS2‐Vasc scores, that might be even lower considering the hypocoagulable state. Only 33% of PWH with AF receives any form of anticoagulation therapy.
Bile cast nephropathy: An often forgotten diagnosis
Authors: Sequeira Adrian , Gu Xin 
Published: April 2014

AbstractHigh bilirubin levels are nephrotoxic. Bilirubin can cause a functional proximal tubulopathy or may precipitate into casts associated with acute tubular injury. This condition is known as bile cast nephropathy. The kidney injury is generally reversible if bilirubin levels are decreased early. We present a case wherein an alcoholic patient presented with high bilirubin levels and anuric acute kidney injury. The initial urine analysis suggested intrinsic renal disease. A kidney biopsy, performed a few days after the initiation of dialysis, demonstrated the presence of bile casts along with acute tubular injury. The patient however continued to be dialysis dependent inspite of initiating prednisolone to treat acute alcoholic hepatitis.
Development and validation of a nomogram predicting recurrence risk in women with symptomatic urinary tract infection
Authors: Cai Tommaso , Mazzoli Sandra , Migno Serena , Malossini Gianni , Lanzafame Paolo , Mereu Liliana , Tateo Saverio , Wagenlehner Florian ME , Pickard Robert S , Bartoletti Riccardo 
Published: April 2014

ObjectivesTo develop and externally validate a novel nomogram predicting recurrence risk probability at 12 months in women after an episode of urinary tract infection.MethodsThe study included 768 women from Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy, affected by urinary tract infections from January 2005 to December 2009. Another 373 women with the same criteria enrolled at Santa Chiara Hospital, Trento, Italy, from January 2010 to June 2012 were used to externally validate and calibrate the nomogram. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models tested the relationship between urinary tract infection recurrence risk, and patient clinical and laboratory characteristics. The nomogram was evaluated by calculating concordance probabilities, as well as testing calibration of predicted urinary tract infection recurrence with observed urinary tract infections. Nomogram variables included: number of partners, bowel function, type of pathogens isolated (Gram‐positive/negative), hormonal status, number of previous urinary tract infection recurrences and previous treatment of asymptomatic bacteriuria.ResultsOf the original development data, 261 out of 768 women presented at least one episode of recurrence of urinary tract infection (33.9%). The nomogram had a concordance index of 0.85. The nomogram predictions were well calibrated. This model showed high discrimination accuracy and favorable calibration characteristics. In the validation group (373 women), the overall c‐index was 0.83 (P = 0.003, 95% confidence interval 0.51–0.99), whereas the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.85 (95% confidence interval 0.79–0.91).ConclusionsThe present nomogram accurately predicts the recurrence risk of urinary tract infection at 12 months, and can assist in identifying women at high risk of symptomatic recurrence that can be suitable candidates for a prophylactic strategy.
Impact of graft nephrectomy on outcomes of second kidney transplantation
Authors: Fadli Saâd Ed‐Dine , Pernin Vincent , Nogue Erika , Macioce Valérie , Picot Marie‐Christine , Ramounau‐Pigot Annie , Garrigue Valérie , Iborra François , Mourad Georges , Thuret Rodolphe 
Published: April 2014

ObjectivesTo determine the impact of renal graft nephrectomy on second kidney transplantation survival.MethodsWe carried out a retrospective single‐center study by analyzing cases performed from January 2000 to December 2011. Retransplanted patients who underwent previous allograft nephrectomy more than 3 months post‐transplantation (group 1) were compared with those who did not (group 2) in terms of graft survival, incidences of acute rejection and delayed graft function. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess risk factors of graft loss after retransplantation.ResultsOverall, 146 patients were analyzed, including 52 (35.6%) in group 1 and 94 (64.4%) in group 2. Group 1 patients presented a significantly shorter first graft survival (0.8 vs 8.6 years, P < 0.001) and more anti‐class I antibodies (90.5% vs 74.2%, P = 0.03). A total of 10 patients (19%) in group 1 and 16 patients (17%) in group 2 had at least one acute rejection episode (P = 0.74). Delayed graft function was observed in 13 patients (25%) in group 1 and 17 patients (18%) in group 2 (P = 0.32). Graft survival at 1, 5 and 10 years was, respectively, 94%, 81% and 58% in group 1, and 99%, 93% and 66% in group 2 (P = 0.10). Graft survival was decreased by increased donor age and serum creatinine, and tended to be associated with post‐transplantation presence of anti‐class I and II antibodies. Graft nephrectomy was not associated with graft survival in multivariate analysis.ConclusionsGraft nephrectomy, probably a marker of high immunological risk patients, is not a risk factor of increased retransplant failure.
Workplace democracy in the lab
Authors: Mellizo Philip , Carpenter Jeffrey , Matthews Peter Hans 
Published: April 2014

AbstractWhile intuition suggests that empowering workers to have some say in the control of the firm is likely to have beneficial effects, empirical evidence of such effects is hard to come by because of numerous confounding factors in the naturally occurring data. We report evidence from a real‐effort experiment confirming that worker performance is sensitive to the process used to select the compensation contract. Groups of workers that voted to determine their compensation scheme provided significantly more effort than groups that had no say in how they would be compensated. This effect is robust to controls for the compensation scheme implemented, worker characteristics such as ability and gender, and possible sorting.
Diabetic foot infection treatment and care
Authors: Cigna Emanuele , Fino Pasquale , Onesti Maria G , Amorosi Vittoria , Scuderi Nicolò 
Published: April 2014

AbstractFoot infections in diabetic patients are a common, complex and costly problem. They are potentially adverse with progression to deeper spaces and tissues and are associated with severe complications. The management of diabetic foot infection (DFI) requires a prompt and systematic approach to achieve more successful outcomes and to ultimately avoid amputations. This study reviews a multi‐step treatment for DFIs. Between September 2010 and September 2012, a total of about 37 patients were consulted for DFI. The treatment algorithm included four steps, that is, several types of debridement according to the type of wound, the application of negative pressure therapy (NPT), other advanced dressings, a targeted antibiotic therapy local or systemic as the case may, and, if necessary, reconstructive surgery. This treatment protocol showed excellent outcomes, allowing us to avoid amputation in most difficult cases. Only about 8% of patients require amputation. This treatment protocol and a multidisciplinary approach with a specialised team produced excellent results in the treatment of DFI and in the management of diabetic foot in general, allowing us to improve the quality of life of diabetic patients and also to ensure cost savings.
Emergency arterio‐venous loop for free‐flap defect reconstruction of the lower thigh with a post‐irradiated and heavily infected wound
Authors: Taeger Christian D , Arkudas Andreas , Beier Justus P , Horch Raymund E 
Published: April 2014

AbstractAlthough being a safe and standardised procedure, free‐flap reconstruction can be harmful if unpredictable situations occur intraoperatively. The case presented reveals a situation in which an unscheduled interdisciplinary approach allowed to complete our reconstructive aim. An extensive defect at the thigh was planned for reconstruction by means of a free rectus abdominis flap. As the distant part of the flap showed a compromised perfusion during operation and had to be partially discarded, our colleagues from the vascular surgery department created an arterio‐venous loop for anastomosis. This allowed a more distant positioning of the flap and ensured a complete defect reconstruction.
Current Treatment of Ascending Colon Volvulus in Horses: A Survey of ACVS Diplomates
Authors: Fiege Jamie K. , Hackett Eileen S. , Rao Sangeeta , Gillette Shana C. , Southwood Louise L. 
Published: April 2014

ObjectiveTo report the results of a survey of opinions on current treatments and estimated outcomes of ascending colon volvulus in horses.Study DesignWeb‐based survey.Sample PopulationAmerican College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) Diplomates (n = 151) who perform gastrointestinal surgery in horses.MethodsACVS Diplomates with credentials in the large animal specialty obtained by examination in 2010 or earlier (n = 410) were solicited by e‐mail to complete a web‐based survey designed to determine ascending colon volvulus treatment preferences and outcomes.ResultsResponses were obtained from 162 ACVS Diplomates, of which 151 currently performed gastrointestinal surgery in horses. Horses surgically treated with ascending colon volvulus accounted for ≤20 cases/year and primary treatment was most often anatomic reduction with or without pelvic flexure enterotomy. Median estimated survival rate was 70% and surgical treatments were not associated with estimated survival (P = .27). Diplomates identified early surgical correction as the single most important factor impacting survival of horses surgically treated for ascending colon volvulus.ConclusionsReported survival rates for horses with ascending colon volvulus were good. Respondents indicated this might be due in part to early surgical treatment. Survey investigations can provide preliminary data for future prospective studies and facilitate a consensus among Diplomates in treatment of surgical disease.
Breast milk leptin and adiponectin in relation to infant body composition up to 2 years
Authors: Brunner S. , Schmid D. , Zang K. , Much D. , Knoeferl B. , Kratzsch J. , Amann‐Gassner U. , Bader B. L. , Hauner H. 
Published: April 2014

SummaryBackgroundAdipokines in breast milk have been associated with infant growth trajectories.ObjectiveWe aimed to explore the relationship of leptin and adiponectin in breast milk with infant weight gain and body composition up to the age of 2 years.MethodsBreast milk samples were collected from exclusively or partially breastfeeding mothers at 6 weeks (n = 152) and 4 months (n = 120) post‐partum. Leptin and adiponectin were determined in skim breast milk and related to infant growth and fat mass assessed by skin‐fold thickness measurements. A total of 118 infants were examined at 2 years.ResultsThe levels of both milk adipokines were slightly lower at 4 months compared with 6 weeks post‐partum. Breast milk leptin was largely unrelated to infant anthropometric measures up to 2 years. Milk adiponectin tended to be inversely related to early infant anthropometry up to 4 months, but beyond was positively associated with weight gain and the sum of skin‐folds up to 2 years.ConclusionsOur results suggest that higher adiponectin levels in breast milk might be associated with greater weight gain and higher fat mass in the offspring up to 2 years.
Motivational interviewing targeting diet and physical activity improves adherence to paediatric obesity treatment: results from the MI Values randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bean M. K. , Powell P. , Quinoy A. , Ingersoll K. , Wickham E. P. , Mazzeo S. E. 
Published: April 2014

SummaryBackgroundAdherence is a challenge in obesity treatment. Motivational interviewing (MI) may promote patient adherence. MI Values is a randomized controlled trial of MI implemented as an adjunct to an adolescent obesity treatment [Teaching Encouragement Exercise Nutrition Support (T.E.E.N.S.)].ObjectiveAssess effects of MI Values on T.E.E.N.S. attrition and adherence.MethodsParticipants were randomized to MI (n = 58) or control (n = 41). At weeks 1 and 10, MI participants had brief MI sessions; controls viewed health education videos. All participants continued with T.E.E.N.S. (biweekly dietitian and behavioural support visits; 3 times per week supervised physical activity). Assessments were repeated at baseline, 3 and 6 months. T‐tests and chi‐square analyses examined T.E.E.N.S. attrition and adherence by group.ResultsAdolescents (N = 99) were primarily African–American (73%) females (74%); age = 13.8 ± 1.8 years, body mass index percentile = 98.0 ± 1.2. Compared with controls, MI participants had greater 3‐month adherence overall (89.2% vs. 81.0%, P = 0.040), and to dietitian (91.3% vs. 84.0%; P = 0.046) and behavioural support (92.9% vs. 85.2%; P = 0.041) visits, and greater 6‐month adherence overall (84.4% vs. 76.2%, P = 0.026) and to behavioural support visits (87.5% vs. 78.8%, P = 0.011).ConclusionsMI enhanced adherence to this obesity intervention. MI Values is the first study to examine the impact of MI on treatment adherence among obese, primarily African–American adolescents.
Managing for Value 2.0
Authors: Kaiser Kevin , Young S. David 
Published: April 2014

In Finance 101, future corporate managers are taught that the social mission of public companies is to maximize their own longrun (or “intrinsic”) value by investing in all positive net present value (NPV) projects—that is, projects that are expected to earn at least their opportunity cost of capital. In markets that are reasonably efficient, provided management does an effective job of communicating its business plan and its progress in meeting its strategic goals, companies that follow this “NPV rule” can expect to be rewarded with increases in their share prices, at least in the longer run.But in the real world, of course, the pursuit of earnings and other “key performance indicators” (KPIs) often leads to managerial shortsightedness and destruction of value. To explain why—and to help companies avoid this outcome—this article presents an approach that envisions the intrinsic value of the company as an invisible “blue line” that moves through time on a graph, while showing observable key performance indicators, including revenue and earnings (and even the current stock price), as “red lines” on the same graph. The root of the problem is the failure of many companies to distinguish between their KPIs and the underlying drivers of value. KPIs, to be sure, are reflections of important aspects of the business; but however important and useful for strategic planning, they should not be used in performance evaluation or compensation plans for top management as surrogates for the underlying value of the business. Genuine value creation requires systems and a corporate culture that compel managers to pursue all projects that promise to earn the opportunity cost of capital—while treating earnings and other KPIs as means to creating value rather than ends in themselves.