bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Predicting postoperative day 1 hematocrit levels after uncomplicated hysterectomy
Authors: Swenson Carolyn W. , Lanham Michael S. , Morgan Daniel M. , Berger Mitchell B. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractObjectiveTo develop a model for predicting postoperative hematocrit levels after uncomplicated hysterectomy.MethodsIn a retrospective study, data were analyzed from the Michigan Surgery Quality Collaborative for non‐emergent hysterectomies performed for benign indications among women aged at least 18 years between January 1, 2012, and April 4, 2014. Linear mixed models were used for univariate and multivariate analyses.ResultsThe model was developed with data from 4747 hysterectomies and validated on 1184 cases. In the mixed multivariate analysis, higher postoperative day 1 (POD1) hematocrit levels were associated with higher weight (B = 0.03222, P < 0.001), higher preoperative hematocrit (B = 0.6587, P < 0.001), and non‐vaginal hysterectomy (B = 0.2815, P = 0.0055). Lower POD1 hematocrit was associated with higher preoperative platelet count (B = − 0.00457, P < 0.001), greater estimated blood loss (B = − 0.00652, P < 0.001), and larger intraoperative crystalloid volume (B = − 0.3303, P < 0.001). The final model predicted POD1 hematocrit within 4% points of the actual value for 91.7% of cases in the validation set.ConclusionUse of the model after uncomplicated hysterectomy might help to support the practice of selectively conducting postoperative hematocrit tests after hysterectomy in a clinically thoughtful and cost‐effective manner.
Radiologic and clinical evaluation of children with first febrile urinary tract infection
Authors: Nickavar A. , Safaeian B. , abhari M. Biglari 
Published: April 2015

Background and objectives:
Accurate diagnosis of acute pyelonephritis (APN) is clinically challenging in young children. The evaluation methods for APN and its major risk fac-tor, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), have been revised in recent years. The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of different radiologic investigations in children experiencing the first episode of APN.

Materials and methods:
This study included 425 children of 2-12 months of age (17.5% male, 82.5% female) with APN. APN was defined as a positive urine culture associated with focal or diffuse decreased cortical uptake and preservation of renal contour indicated by DMSA renal scan.

Results:
The mean age at diagnosis was 39.2 ± 1.56 months. The following signs were observed in the patients: fever ≥ 38.5 °C, 66.8%; positive CRP, 85.4%; ESR > 25, 78.6%; and leukocytosis > 13,000/mm3, 53.4%.
Pyelocalyceal fullness and increased parenchymal echogenicity were the most common renal ultrasonography findings, and ultrasonography had 34% sensitivity and 53% specificity for these two findings. DMSA scan and ultrasound findings of APN were not significantly corre-lated (P = .112).
VUR was found in 42.2% of patients. DMSA scanning was not reliable for the diagnosis of VUR (P = .956), with 42% sensitivity and specificity.
VUR was identified in 42.7% of patients by ultrasound (P = .001), and the diagnostic rate was related to the VUR severity. Ultrasound had 42.7% sensitivity and 27% specificity for the diag-nosis of VUR.

Conclusion:
Determination of inflammatory markers is recommenced for the evaluation of chil-dren with APN. In addition, normal ultrasound is a valuable imaging tool for excluding high grade VUR.
Potent anti‐tumor response by targeting B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) in a mouse model of multiple myeloma
Authors: Oden Felix , Marino Stephen F. , Brand Janko , Scheu Susanne , Kriegel Cathleen , Olal Daniel , Takvorian Anna , Westermann Jörg , Yilmaz Buket , Hinz Michael , Daumke Oliver , Höpken Uta E. , Müller Gerd , Lipp Martin 
Published: April 2015

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an aggressive incurable plasma cell malignancy with a median life expectancy of less than seven years. Antibody‐based therapies have demonstrated substantial clinical benefit for patients with hematological malignancies, particular in B cell Non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. The lack of immunotherapies specifically targeting MM cells led us to develop a human‐mouse chimeric antibody directed against the B cell maturation antigen (BCMA), which is almost exclusively expressed on plasma cells and multiple myeloma cells. The high affinity antibody blocks the binding of the native ligands APRIL and BAFF to BCMA. This finding is rationalized by the high resolution crystal structure of the Fab fragment in complex with the extracellular domain of BCMA. Most importantly, the antibody effectively depletes MM cells in vitro and in vivo and substantially prolongs tumor‐free survival under therapeutic conditions in a xenograft mouse model. A BCMA‐antibody‐based therapy is therefore a promising option for the effective treatment of multiple myeloma and autoimmune diseases.
Gene expression profiling of sequential metastatic biopsies for biomarker discovery in breast cancer
Authors: Foukakis Theodoros , Lövrot John , Sandqvist Patricia , Xie Hanjing , Lindström Linda S. , Giorgetti Carla , Jacobsson Hans , Hedayati Elham , Bergh Jonas 
Published: April 2015

The feasibility of longitudinal metastatic biopsies for gene expression profiling in breast cancer is unexplored. Dynamic changes in gene expression can potentially predict efficacy of targeted cancer drugs.Patients enrolled in a phase III trial of metastatic breast cancer with docetaxel monotherapy versus combination of docetaxel + sunitinib were offered to participate in a translational substudy comprising longitudinal fine needle aspiration biopsies and Positron Emission Tomography imaging before (T1) and two weeks after start of treatment (T2). Aspirated tumor material was used for microarray analysis, and treatment‐induced changes (T2 versus T1) in gene expression and standardized uptake values (SUV) were investigated and correlated to clinical outcome measures.Gene expression profiling yielded high‐quality data at both time points in 14/18 patients. Unsupervised clustering revealed specific patterns of changes caused by monotherapy vs. combination therapy (p = 0.021, Fisher's exact test). A therapy‐induced reduction of known proliferation and hypoxia metagene scores was prominent in the combination arm. Changes in a previously reported hypoxia metagene score were strongly correlated to the objective responses seen by conventional radiology assessments after 6 weeks in the combination arm, Spearman's ρ = 1 (p = 0.017) but not in monotherapy, ρ = −0.029 (p = 1). Similarly, the Predictor Analysis of Microarrays 50 (PAM50) proliferation metagene correlated to tumor changes merely in the combination arm at 6 and 12 weeks (ρ = 0.900, p = 0.083 and ρ = 1, p = 0.017 respectively). Reductions in mean SUV were a reliable early predictor of objective response in monotherapy, ρ = 0.833 (p = 0.008), but not in the combination arm ρ = −0.029 (p = 1).Gene expression profiling of longitudinal metastatic aspiration biopsies was feasible, demonstrated biological validity and provided predictive information.
Impact of Organized Sports on Activity, Participation, and Quality of Life in People With Neurologic Disabilities
Authors: Sahlin K. Barbara , Lexell Jan 
Published: April 2015

AbstractPhysical activity and exercise is the mainstay of chronic disease prevention and health maintenance for all people with and without a disability, and clear evidence exists of the benefits among various populations with neurologic disabilities. However, the potential benefits of organized sports for people with neurologic disabilities are not as well explored. In this narrative review, current evidence regarding the impact of organized sports on activity, participation, and quality of life in people with neurologic disabilities of all ages is summarized, and facilitators of and barriers to participation in sports for this population are discussed. The articles reviewed were divided into 2 sets: (1) children and adolescents and (2) adults. The subjects of almost all of the studies were persons with a spinal cord injury. Children and adolescents with a disability who engaged in sports reported self‐concept scores close to those of able‐bodied athletes, as well as higher levels of physical activity. Adults with a spinal cord injury who engaged in organized sports reported decreased depression and anxiety, increased life satisfaction, and increased opportunity for gainful employment compared with nonathletic persons with disabilities. General facilitators, regardless of age, were fitness, fun, health, competence, and social aspects, whereas overall barriers were lack of or inappropriate medical advice and facilities, decreased self‐esteem, poor finances, dependency on others, and views held by others. The importance of this topic for further research is highlighted, and suggestions for future studies are proposed.
Clinical Experience With Continuous Intrathecal Baclofen Trials Prior to Pump Implantation
Authors: Phillips Mary Miller , Miljkovic Natasa , Ramos‐Lamboy Marlyn , Moossy John J. , Horton John , Buhari Alhaji M. , Munin Michael C. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractObjectiveTo report our clinical experience using continuous intrathecal baclofen (ITB) trials prior to permanent pump implantation.DesignRetrospective chart review.SettingAn inpatient neurosurgery unit and outpatient physical medicine and rehabilitation clinics.ParticipantsFifty‐seven patients with refractory spasticity who underwent a continuous ITB trial during the years 2006‐2012.MethodsPatients underwent placement of a temporary intrathecal catheter that was connected to an external pump. A successful trial was defined as a one‐level reduction in lower limb modified Ashworth scores in key spastic lower limb muscles identified for each individual patient. Subjective improvement in function or ease of performing functional tasks also were monitored.Main Outcome MeasuresModified Ashworth scores, functional mobility in ambulatory patients only, and the incidence and severity of adverse events during the trial and up to 1 year after implantation.ResultsSpasticity significantly decreased during the trial. Average ambulation distance was unchanged, although 34% of ambulatory patients progressed to a less restrictive assistive device by trial completion. Adverse events (AEs) occurred in 26 patients. Minor AEs were seen in 18 patients, with the most common being nausea, transient urinary retention, and headache. Pumps were implanted in 86% of patients; 14% did not receive a pump because of AEs or because goals were not met. Six patients had their pump removed at 12 months for the following reasons: pump malfunctions (3), skin breakdown around the pump (1), infection (1), and expectations not met (1).ConclusionsContinuous trials via an external catheter could be an option if patients and clinicians desire a comprehensive assessment of systemic and functional effects of ITB before pump implantation. The majority of AEs were minor and resolved spontaneously, and the most effective starting intrathecal dose was determined by pump insertion.
Zero lower bound, unconventional monetary policy and indicator properties of interest rate spreads
Authors: Hännikäinen Jari 
Published: April 2015

AbstractThis paper re‐examines the out‐of‐sample predictive power of interest rate spreads when the short‐term nominal rates have been stuck at the zero lower bound and the Fed has used unconventional monetary policy. Our results suggest that the predictive power of some interest rate spreads have changed since the beginning of this period. In particular, the term spread has been a useful leading indicator since December 2008, but not before that. Credit spreads generally perform poorly in the zero lower bound and unconventional monetary policy period. However, the mortgage spread has been a robust predictor of economic activity over the 2003–2014 period.
The wages of social responsibility — where are they? A critical review of ESG investing
Authors: Halbritter Gerhard , Dorfleitner Gregor 
Published: April 2015

AbstractThis paper contributes both to investigating the link between the corporate social and financial performance based on environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) ratings and to reviewing the existing empirical evidence pertaining to this relationship. The sample used includes ESG data of ASSET4, Bloomberg and KLD for the U.S. market from 1991 to 2012. The econometrical framework applies an ESG portfolio approach using the Carhart (1997) four‐factor model as well as cross‐sectional Fama and MacBeth (1973) regressions. Previous empirical research indicates a relationship between ESG ratings and returns. As against this, the ESG portfolios do not state a significant return difference between companies with high and low ESG ratings. Although the Fama and MacBeth (1973) regressions reveal a significant influence of several ESG variables, investors are hardly able to exploit this relationship. The magnitude and direction of the impact are substantially dependent on the rating provider, the company sample and the particular subperiod. The results suggest that investors should no longer expect abnormal returns by trading a difference portfolio of high and low rated firms with regard to ESG aspects.
Interspecies communication in oral biofilm: An ocean of information
Authors: Parashar Amit , Parashar Shashi , Zingade Abhishek , Gupta Shikha , Sanikop Sheetal 
Published: April 2015

AbstractThe diversity of signalling opportunities within microbial communities, and the significant role of these molecules in coordinating gene expression and promoting biofilm formation, has provided the impetus to investigate the potential of inhibitory analogues to disrupt these networks, thereby providing mechanisms to control or influence the development of dental plaque. Within the oral biofilms, resident bacterial cells interact with one another and exchange messages in the form of signalling molecules and metabolites. In this review article, our aim is to elaborate the role of this quorum sensing and their involvement in pathogenesis to decipher information that can be useful to target pathways to control diseases.
Incarceration and injection drug use in Baltimore, Maryland
Authors: Genberg Becky L. , Astemborski Jacquie , Vlahov David , Kirk Gregory D. , Mehta Shruti H. 
Published: April 2015

AbstractAimsThere is limited longitudinal research examining incarceration and subsequent changes in drug use among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the United States. The objective of the current study was to characterize the frequency of incarceration and estimate the association between incarceration and subsequent injection drug use among current and former PWIDs in one US city.DesignALIVE (AIDS Linked to the Intravenous Experience) is a prospective cohort study of current and former PWIDs, with semi‐annual follow‐up occurring since 1988.SettingBaltimore, Maryland, USA.ParticipantsA total of 3245 participants with 48 738 study visits were included. Participants enrolled from 1988 to 2012 with a median of 13 follow‐up visits per participant (Interquartile range = 7–25).MeasurementsIncarcerations were defined as any self‐reported jail or prison stays in the previous 6 months that were ≥7 days or longer. The primary outcome was defined as any self‐reported injection drug use in the previous 6 months.FindingsAt baseline, 29% were female, 90% African American and 33% HIV‐positive. Fifty‐seven per cent of participants experienced at least one incarceration episode. After adjusting for confounders, there was a positive association between incarceration and subsequent injection drug use [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.48, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.37–1.59]; however, stratified analysis showed that the effect was restricted to those who were not injecting at the time of incarceration (AOR = 2.11, 95% CI = 1.88–2.37).ConclusionsIn the United States, incarceration of people who had previously stopped injecting drugs appears to be associated with an increased risk of subsequent injecting.
HLA‐DQ allele‐restricted activation of nitroso sulfamethoxazole‐specific CD4‐positive T lymphocytes from patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Ogese M. O. , Saide K. , Faulkner L. , Whitaker P. , Peckham D. , Alfirevic A. , Baker D. M. , Sette A. , Pirmohamed M. , Park B. K. , Naisbitt D. J. 
Published: April 2015

SummaryBackgroundFor certain HLA allele‐associated drug hypersensitivity reactions, the parent drug has been shown to associate directly with the risk allele. In other forms of hypersensitivity, HLA risk alleles have not been identified and T cells are activated in an allele unrestricted manner. Chemically reactive drug metabolites bind to multiple proteins; thus, it is assumed that the derived peptide antigens interact with a number of HLA molecules to activate T cells; however, HLA restriction of the drug metabolite‐specific T‐cell response has not been studied.ObjectiveTo utilize T cells from sulfamethoxazole (SMX) hypersensitive patients with cystic fibrosis to examine the HLA molecules that interact with nitroso SMX (SMX‐NO)‐derived antigens.MethodsT‐cell clones were generated from 4 hypersensitive patients. Drug‐specific proliferative responses and cytokine secretion were measured. Anti‐human class I and class II antibodies were used to analyse HLA restriction. Antigen‐presenting cells expressing different HLA molecules were used to determine the alleles involved in the presentation of SMX‐NO‐derived antigens to T cells.ResultsA total of 976 clones were tested for SMX‐NO reactivity. Thirty‐nine CD4+ clones were activated with SMX‐NO and found to proliferate and secrete cytokines. The SMX‐NO‐specific response was blocked with an antibody against HLA‐DQ. SMX‐NO‐specific responses were detected with antigen‐presenting cells expressing HLA‐DQB1*05:01 (patient 1) and HLA‐DQB1*02:01 (patient 2), but not other HLA‐DQB1 alleles.Conclusion and Clinical RelevanceHLA‐DQ plays an important role in the activation of SMX‐NO‐specific CD4+ T cells. Detection of HLA‐DQ allele‐restricted responses suggests that T cells are activated by a limited repertoire of SMX‐NO‐modified peptides.
Analysis of signal processing in vestibular circuits with a novel light‐emitting diodes‐based fluorescence microscope
Authors: Direnberger Stephan , Banchi Roberto , Brosel Sonja , Seebacher Christian , Laimgruber Stefan , Uhl Rainer , Felmy Felix , Straka Hans , Kunz Lars 
Published: April 2015

AbstractOptical visualization of neural network activity is limited by imaging system‐dependent technical tradeoffs. To overcome these constraints, we have developed a powerful low‐cost and flexible imaging system with high spectral variability and unique spatio‐temporal precision for simultaneous optical recording and manipulation of neural activity of large cell groups. The system comprises eight high‐power light‐emitting diodes, a camera with a large metal‐oxide‐semiconductor sensor and a high numerical aperture water‐dipping objective. It allows fast and precise control of excitation and simultaneous low noise imaging at high resolution. Adjustable apertures generated two independent areas of variable size and position for simultaneous optical activation and image capture. The experimental applicability of this system was explored in semi‐isolated preparations of larval axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) with intact inner ear organs and central nervous circuits. Cyclic galvanic stimulation of semicircular canals together with glutamate‐ and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐uncaging caused a corresponding modulation of Ca2+ transients in central vestibular neurons. These experiments revealed specific cellular properties as well as synaptic interactions between excitatory and inhibitory inputs, responsible for spatio‐temporal‐specific sensory signal processing. Location‐specific GABA‐uncaging revealed a potent inhibitory shunt of vestibular nerve afferent input in the predominating population of tonic vestibular neurons, indicating a considerable impact of local and commissural inhibitory circuits on the processing of head/body motion‐related signals. The discovery of these previously unknown properties of vestibular computations demonstrates the merits of our novel microscope system for experimental applications in the field of neurobiology.
Inhibiting cholesterol degradation induces neuronal sclerosis and epileptic activity in mouse hippocampus
Authors: Chali Farah , Djelti Fathia , Eugene Emmanuel , Valderrama Mario , Marquer Catherine , Aubourg Patrick , Duykaerts Charles , Miles Richard , Cartier Nathalie , Navarro Vincent 
Published: April 2015

AbstractElevations in neuronal cholesterol have been associated with several degenerative diseases. An enhanced excitability and synchronous firing in surviving neurons are among the sequels of neuronal death in these diseases and also in some epileptic syndromes. Here, we attempted to increase neuronal cholesterol levels, using a short hairpinRNAto suppress expression of the enzyme cytochrome P450 family 46, subfamily A, polypeptide 1 gene (CYP46A1). This protein hydroxylates cholesterol and so facilitates transmembrane extrusion. A short hairpinRNA CYP46A1construction coupled to the adeno‐associated virus type 5 was injected focally and unilaterally into mouse hippocampus. It was selectively expressed first in neurons of the cornu ammonis (hippocampus) (CA)3a region. Cytoplasmic and membrane cholesterol increased, and the neuronal soma volume increased and then decreased before pyramidal cells died. AsCA3a pyramidal cells died, interictal electroencephalographic (EEG) events occurred during exploration and non‐rapid eye movement sleep. With time, neuronal death spread to involve pyramidal cells and interneurons of theCA1 region.CA1 neuronal death was correlated with a delayed local expression of phosphorylated tau. Astrocytes were activated throughout the hippocampus and microglial activation was specific to regions of neuronal death.CA1 neuronal death was correlated with distinct aberrantEEGactivity. During exploratory behaviour and rapid eye movement sleep,EEGoscillations at 7–10 Hz (theta) could accelerate to 14–21 Hz (beta) waves. They were accompanied by low‐amplitude, high‐frequency oscillations of peak power at ~300 Hz and a range of 250–350 Hz. Although episodes ofEEGacceleration were not correlated with changes in exploratory behaviour, they were followed in some animals by structured seizure‐like discharges. These data strengthen links between increased cholesterol, neuronal sclerosis and epileptic behaviour.