bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in Right Ventricular Function Measured by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Patients Receiving Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension–Targeted Therapy
Authors: Peacock Andrew J. , Crawley Stephen , McLure Lindsey , Blyth Kevin G. , Vizza Carmine Dario , Poscia Roberto , Francone Marco , Iacucci Ilaria , Olschewski Horst , Kovacs Gabor , vonk Noordegraaf Anton , Marcus J. Tim , van de Veerdonk Marielle C. , Oosterveer Frank P.T. 
Published: October 2013

Background—
Most measures that predict survival in pulmonary hypertension (PH) relate directly to, or correlate with, right ventricular (RV) function. Direct assessment of RV function using noninvasive techniques such as cardiac MRI may therefore be an appropriate way of determining response to therapy and monitoring disease progression in PH.

Methods and Results—

In this pan-European study, 91 patients with PH (mean pulmonary arterial pressure 46±15 mm Hg) underwent clinical and cardiac MRI assessments at baseline and after 12 months of disease-targeted therapy (predominantly endothelin receptor antagonists [47.3%] or phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors [25.3%]). At month 12, functional class had improved in 21 patients, was unchanged in 63 patients, and had deteriorated in 7 patients. Significant improvements were achieved in RV and left ventricular ejection fraction (
P
<0.001 and
P
=0.0007, respectively), RV stroke volume index (
P
<0.0001), and left ventricular end-diastolic volume index (
P
=0.0015). Increases in 6-minute walk distance were significant (
P
<0.0001) and correlated with change in RV ejection fraction and left ventricular end-diastolic volume, although correlation coefficients were low (r=0.28,
P
=0.01 and r=0.26,
P
=0.02, respectively).

Conclusions—
On-treatment changes in cardiac MRI–derived variables from left and right sides of the heart reflected changes in functional class and survival in patients with PH. Direct measurement of RV function using cardiac MRI can fully assess potential benefits of treatment in PH.
Brush Sign on 3-T T2*-Weighted MRI as a Potential Predictor of Hemorrhagic Transformation After Tissue Plasminogen Activator Therapy
Authors: Terasawa Yuka , Yamamoto Nobuaki , Morigaki Ryoma , Fujita Koji , Izumi Yuishin , Satomi Junichiro , Harada Masafumi , Nagahiro Shinji , Kaji Ryuji 
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose—
The brush sign (BS) is the enlargement of medullary veins on 3-T T2*-weighted MRI seen in patients with ischemic stroke because of major cerebral artery occlusion. However, the clinical relevance of BS in patients with acute stroke remains unclear. We assessed the correlation between detecting BS with the development of hemorrhagic transformation after intravenous thrombolysis.

Methods—
We enrolled consecutive patients with M1 or M2 occlusion treated with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator. We classified the patients into 2 groups: the group positive for BS (P-BS) and the group negative for BS (N-BS). We investigated the differences in MRI findings and the clinical outcome between the 2 groups.

Results—

The subjects consisted of 36 patients (19 men; mean age, 74.7 years). Twenty-one patients (58%) had M1 occlusion, and 15 (42%) had M2 occlusion. Twenty-five patients (69%) were classified into the P-BS group and 11 (31%) into the N-BS group. Recanalization was observed in 15 (60%) and 10 (90%) patients in the P-BS and N-BS groups, respectively (
P
=0.116). Hemorrhagic transformation on MRI was observed more frequently in the P-BS group than in the N-BS group (64% versus 18%;
P
=0.027). A good outcome (mRS, 0–1) at discharge was found in 24% of patients in the P-BS group and in 45% of patients in the N-BS group (
P
=0.152). A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the presence of BS (odds ratio, 9.08; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–59.8;
P
=0.022) was independently associated with hemorrhagic transformation.

Conclusions—
BS may predict the development of hemorrhagic transformation in patients with acute stroke treated with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator.
Does Sex Influence the Response to Intravenous Thrombolysis in Ischemic Stroke?
Authors: Lorenzano Svetlana , Ahmed Niaz , Falcou Anne , Mikulik Robert , Tatlisumak Turgut , Roffe Christine , Wahlgren Nils , Toni Danilo 
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose—
Women are more likely to have a worse outcome after an acute stroke than men. Some studies have suggested that women also benefit less from intravenous thrombolysis after an acute ischemic stroke, but others found no sex differences in safety and efficacy. We aimed to evaluate differences in 3-month outcome between sexes in intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator–treated patients registered in the Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke-International Stroke Thrombolysis Register.

Methods—
A total of 45 079 patients treated with intravenous alteplase were recorded from 2002 to 2011. Main outcome measures were symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score, 0–2), and mortality at 3 months.

Results—

Among 25 777 (57.2%) men and 19 302 (42.8%) women, we found no difference in the rate of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (
P
=0.13), a significantly higher likelihood of functional independence at 3 months in men (
P
<0.0001) and a higher mortality in women when compared with men (
P
<0.00001). After adjustment for confounding variables, we did not observe any difference between sexes in functional outcome (odds ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 0.97–1.09;
P
=0.39), whereas male sex was related to a higher risk of mortality (odds ratio, 1.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.29;
P
=0.00003) and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (odds ratio, 1.25, 95% confidence interval, 1.04
–
1.51;
P
=0.02).

Conclusions—
Data from Safe Implementation of Treatments in Stroke-International Stroke Thrombolysis Register suggest that intravenous thrombolysis may modify the observed survival and recovery advantage for men expected in the natural course of an ischemic stroke, with a possible larger beneficial treatment effect in women when compared with men.
The Relative Impact of Gang Status Transitions
Authors: Melde Chris , Esbensen Finn-Aage 
Published: October 2013

Objectives: Explore the relative impact of transitions into and out of gangs on adolescent involvement in delinquency and determine the mechanisms associated with these changes in deviant behavior. Method: Hierarchical discontinuous regression models are utilized to examine changes in elevation and slope in outcomes associated with gang membership status transitions using six waves of panel data from a school-based sample of 512 gang-involved youth. Result: Results reveal the potential for gang membership to have an enduring impact on involvement in delinquent activity, but also on attitudes, emotions, and unstructured activities associated with a higher risk of offending. Heightened elevation in proximate postgang membership observations of offending was mediated by the mechanisms associated with a turning point. Conclusions: Gang membership, however brief, can have an impact on adolescent development after self-reported membership ends. While desistance from gang membership is a good first step in promoting better outcomes, youth remain more at risk of antisocial behavior after leaving the gang than they were prior to joining such groups. Research on the enduring impact of gang membership is needed, as well as programs and policies that might lessen the severity of the impact of gang membership on later life outcomes.
The Cult of Jesús Malverde
Authors: Gómez Michel Gerardo , Park Jungwon 
Published: October 2013

The legend of Jesús Malverde articulates the myth of a late-nineteenth-century social bandit in Sinaloa, Mexico. Beatified at the grassroots, Malverde became known decades later as the patron saint of narcos (drug traffickers). In the past few years, this anticanonical figure has provoked controversy because of his supposed association with the criminal world. An examination of the meanings of sanctity and criminality in the Malverde cult in various cultural productions suggests that the worship of this bandit-saint originally reflected the asymmetrical power relationships in Sinaloa during the Porfirian modernizing period. His recent transformation into a “narco-saint” points to the integration into the global market of this region’s contraband. The conflictive image of criminal and redeeming saint illustrates a form of emerging modernity in Sinaloa that represents the intimate desires of those worst affected by illegality and calls into question the unjust and exclusive official system. Beyond his role as a folk religious symbol, Malverde has acquired transnational influence as a laic saint identified with the vulnerability of the human condition under globalization. La leyenda de Jesús Malverde articula el mito de un bandido social sinaloense de fines del siglo 19. Beatificado por el pueblo, Malverde conocido décadas más tarde como el santo patrón de los narcos. En los últimos años esta figura anti-canónica ha provocado controversia por su supuesta asociación con el mundo criminal. Un examen del significado de la santidad y la criminalidad en el culto a Malverde en varias producciones culturales sugiere que la adoración a este bandido-santo en su origen refleja las relaciones asimétricas del poder en la Sinaloa porfiriana. Su transformación en “narco-santo” apunta hacia la integración del contrabando de droga de esta región al mercado global. La imagen conflictiva como criminal y santo redentor ilustra una forma de modernidad emergente en Sinaloa que representa los deseos más íntimos de los más afectados por la ilegalidad y pone en tela de juicio el injusto y excluyente sistema oficial. Más allá de su papel como símbolo religioso popular, Malverde ha llegado a tener influencia trasnacional como santo láico identificado con la vulnerabilidad de la condición humana bajo la globalización.
Biopolitics and Disposable Bodies
Authors: Reyes-Zaga Héctor A. 
Published: October 2013

Until now, little has been said about Mexican literature’s relationship with drug trafficking. While the literature influenced by drug trafficking may be seen as opportunistic and as promoting the dissolution of society and advocating crime, it not only contributes to the reproduction of the current violent Mexican imaginary but also appears to question the political and economic decentralization of neoliberalism and its role in making human beings disposable. Examining an example of this genre, Alejandro Almazán’s Entre perros (2009), in terms of the concept of biopolitics developed by Michel Foucault and others reveals it to be a denunciation of the effects of drug trafficking on Mexican society. The narconarrative raises the possibility of thinking about a state in which ethics and human rights are attainable. Hasta ahora poco se ha dicho de la relación entre la literatura mexicana y el narcotráfico. Mientras se puede ver la literatura influenciada por el narcotráfico como oportunista y promotora de la disolución social y alendador del crimen, no solo contribuye a la reproducción del imaginario violento mexicano, sino parece cuestionar la decentralización política y económica del neoliberalismo y su rol en hacer desechables a los seres humanos. Examinando un ejemplo de este genero, Entre Perros de Alejandro Almazán (2009), en términos del concepto de biopolítica desarrollada por Michel Foucault y otros lo revela como una denuncia del efecto del narcotráfico en la sociedad mexicana. La narconarrativa plantea la posibilidad de pensar en un estado en donde son alcanzables la ética y los derechos humanos.
Control analysis of the eukaryotic cell cycle using gene copy-number series in yeast tetraploids
Authors: Alcasabas Annette A , de Clare Michaela , Pir Pınar , Oliver Stephen G 
Published: October 2013

Abstract

Background
In the model eukaryote, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, previous experiments have identified those genes that exert the most significant control over cell growth rate. These genes are termed HFC for high flux control. Such genes are overrepresented within pathways controlling the mitotic cell cycle.

Results
We postulated that the increase/decrease in growth rate is due to a change in the rate of progression through specific cell cycle steps. We extended and further developed an existing logical model of the yeast cell cycle in order elucidate how the HFC genes modulated progress through the cycle. This model can simulate gene dosage-variation and calculate the cycle time, determine the order and relative speed at which events occur, and predict arrests and failures to correctly execute a step. To experimentally test our model’s predictions, we constructed a tetraploid series of deletion mutants for a set of eight genes that control the G2/M transition. This system allowed us to vary gene copy number through more intermediate levels than previous studies and examine the impact of copy-number variation on growth, cell-cycle phenotype, and response to different cellular stresses.

Conclusions
For the majority of strains, the predictions agreed with experimental observations, validating our model and its use for further predictions. Where simulation and experiment diverged, we uncovered both novel tetraploid-specific phenotypes and a switch in the determinative execution point of a key cell-cycle regulator, the Cdc28 kinase, from the G1/S to the S/G2 boundaries.
Optical imaging of tumor vascularity associated with proliferation and glucose metabolism in early breast cancer: clinical application of total hemoglobin measurements in the breast
Authors: Ueda Shigeto , Nakamiya Noriko , Matsuura Kazuo , Shigekawa Takashi , Sano Hiroshi , Hirokawa Eiko , Shimada Hiroko , Suzuki Hiroaki , Oda Motoki , Yamashita Yutaka , Kishino Osamu , Kuji Ichiei , Osaki Akihiko , Saeki Toshiaki 
Published: October 2013

Abstract

Background
Near-infrared optical imaging targeting the intrinsic contrast of tissue hemoglobin has emerged as a promising approach for visualization of vascularity in cancer research. We evaluated the usefulness of diffuse optical spectroscopy using time-resolved spectroscopic (TRS) measurements for functional imaging of primary breast cancer.

Methods
Fifty-five consecutive TNM stageI/II patients with histologically proven invasive ductal carcinoma and operable breast tumors (<5 cm) who underwent TRS measurements were enrolled. Thirty (54.5%) patients underwent 18F-fluoro-deoxy-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography with measurement of maximum tumor uptake. TRS was used to obtain oxyhemoglobin, deoxyhemoglobin, and total hemoglobin (tHb) levels from the lesions, surrounding normal tissue, and contralateral normal tissue. Lesions with tHb levels 20% higher than those present in normal tissue were defined as “hotspots,” while others were considered “uniform.” The findings in either tumor type were compared with clinicopathological factors.

Results
“Hotspot” tumors were significantly larger (P = 0.002) and exhibited significantly more advanced TNM stage (P = 0.01), higher mitotic counts (P = 0.01) and higher levels of FDG uptake (P = 0.0004) compared with “uniform” tumors; however, other pathological variables were not significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusions
Optical imaging for determination of tHb levels allowed for measurement of tumor vascularity as a function of proliferation and glucose metabolism, which may be useful for prediction of patient prognosis and potential response to treatment.
Is deep brain stimulation a treatment option for anorexia nervosa?
Authors: Oudijn Marloes S , Storosum Jitschak G , Nelis Elise , Denys Damiaan 
Published: October 2013

Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe psychiatric disorder with high rates of morbidity, comorbidity and mortality, which in a subset of patients (21%) takes on a chronic course. Since an evidence based treatment for AN is scarce, it is crucial to investigate new treatment options, preferably focused on influencing the underlying neurobiological mechanisms of AN. The objective of the present paper was to review the evidence for possible neurobiological correlates of AN, and to hypothesize about potential targets for Deep brain stimulation (DBS) as a treatment for chronic, therapy-refractory AN. One avenue for exploring new treatment options based on the neurobiological correlates of AN, is the search for symptomatologic and neurobiologic parallels between AN and other compulsivity- or reward-related disorders. As in other compulsive disorders, the fronto-striatal circuitry, in particular the insula, the ventral striatum (VS) and the prefrontal, orbitofrontal, temporal, parietal and anterior cingulate cortices, are likely to be implicated in the neuropathogenesis of AN. In this paper we will review the few available cases in which DBS has been performed in patients with AN (either as primary diagnosis or as comorbid condition). Given the overlap in symptomatology and neurocircuitry between reward-related disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and AN, and the established efficacy of accumbal DBS in OCD, we hypothesize that DBS of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and other areas associated with reward, e.g. the anterior cingulated cortex (ACC), might be an effective treatment for patients with chronic, treatment refractory AN, providing not only weight restoration, but also significant and sustained improvement in AN core symptoms and associated comorbidities and complications. Possible targets for DBS in AN are the ACC, the ventral anterior limb of the capsula interna (vALIC) and the VS. We suggest conducting larger efficacy studies that also explore the functional effects of DBS in AN.
Hematological and hepatic effects of vascular epidermal growth factor (VEGF) used to stimulate hair growth in an animal model
Authors: Gnann Laís Angelo , Castro Rafael Ferreira , Azzalis Ligia Ajaime , Feder David , Perazzo Fabio Ferreira , Pereira Edimar Cristiano , Rosa Paulo César Pires , Junqueira Virginia Berlanga Campos , Rocha Katya Cristina , Machado Carlos D’ Aparecida , Paschoal Francisco Camargo , de Abreu Luiz Carlos , Valenti Vitor Engrácia , Fonseca Fernando Luiz Affonso 
Published: October 2013

Abstract

Background
Alopecia areata is the hair loss usually reversible, in sharply defined areas. The treatment of alopecia using growth factors shows interesting activity in promoting hair growth. In this concept, VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) is a marker of angiogenesis, stimulating hair growth by facilitating the supply of nutrients to the hair follicle, increasing follicular diameter. The aim of this study was the evaluation of a topical gel enriched with VEGF liposomes on the hair growth stimulation and its toxicological aspects.

Methods

Mesocricetus auratus were randomly divided into three groups. Control group was treated with Aristoflex® gel, 1% group with the same gel but added 1% VEGF and 3% group with 3% VEGF. Biochemical, hematological and histological analyses were done.

Results
At the end of the experiment (15th day of VEGF treatment) efficacy was determined macroscopically by hair density dermatoscopy analysis, and microscopically by hair diameter analysis. They both demonstrated that hair of the VEGF group increased faster and thicker than control. On the other hand, biochemical and hematological results had shown that VEGF was not 100% inert.

Conclusions
VEGF increased hair follicle area, but more studies are necessary to confirm its toxicity.
The capability of endophytic fungi for production of hemicellulases and related enzymes
Authors: Robl Diogo , Delabona Priscila da Silva , Mergel Carla Montanari , Rojas Juan Diego , Costa Patrícia dos Santos , Pimentel Ida Chapaval , Vicente Vania Aparecida , da Cruz Pradella José Geraldo , Padilla Gabriel 
Published: October 2013

AbstractBackgroundThere is an imperative necessity for alternative sources of energy able to reduce the world dependence of fossil oil. One of the most successful options is ethanol obtained mainly from sugarcane and corn fermentation. The foremost residue from sugarcane industry is the bagasse, a rich lignocellulosic raw material uses for the production of ethanol second generation (2G). New cellulolytic and hemicellulytic enzymes are needed, in order to optimize the degradation of bagasse and production of ethanol 2G.ResultsThe ability to produce hemicellulases and related enzymes, suitable for lignocellulosic biomass deconstruction, was explored using 110 endophytic fungi and 9 fungi isolated from spoiled books in Brazil. Two initial selections were performed, one employing the esculin gel diffusion assay, and the other by culturing on agar plate media with beechwood xylan and liquor from the hydrothermal pretreatment of sugar cane bagasse. A total of 56 isolates were then grown at 29°C on steam-exploded delignified sugar cane bagasse (DEB) plus soybean bran (SB) (3:1), with measurement of the xylanase, pectinase, β-glucosidase, CMCase, and FPase activities. Twelve strains were selected, and their enzyme extracts were assessed using different substrates. Finally, the best six strains were grown under xylan and pectin, and several glycohydrolases activities were also assessed. These strains were identified morphologically and by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions and the partial β-tubulin gene (BT2). The best six strains were identified asAspergillus nigerDR02,Trichoderma atrovirideDR17 and DR19,Alternariasp. DR45,Annulohypoxylon stigyumDR47 andTalaromyces wortmanniiDR49. These strains produced glycohydrolases with different profiles, and production was highly influenced by the carbon sources in the media.ConclusionsThe selected endophytic fungiAspergillus nigerDR02,Trichoderma atrovirideDR17 and DR19,Alternariasp. DR45,Annulohypoxylon stigyumDR47 andTalaromyces wortmanniiDR49 are excellent producers of hydrolytic enzymes to be used as part of blends to decompose sugarcane biomass at industrial level.
Rhodiola crenulata extract for prevention of acute mountain sickness: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial
Authors: Chiu Te-Fa , Chen Lisa Li-Chuan , Su Deng-Huang , Lo Hsiang-Yun , Chen Chung-Hsien , Wang Shih-Hao , Chen Wei-Lung 
Published: October 2013

Abstract

Background

Rhodiola crenulata (R. crenulata) is widely used to prevent acute mountain sickness in the Himalayan areas and in Tibet, but no scientific studies have previously examined its effectiveness. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study to investigate its efficacy in acute mountain sickness prevention.

Methods
Healthy adult volunteers were randomized to 2 treatment sequences, receiving either 800 mg R. crenulata extract or placebo daily for 7 days before ascent and 2 days during mountaineering, before crossing over to the alternate treatment after a 3-month wash-out period. Participants ascended rapidly from 250 m to 3421 m on two separate occasions: December 2010 and April 2011. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of acute mountain sickness, as defined by a Lake Louise score ≥ 3, with headache and at least one of the symptoms of nausea or vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, or difficulty sleeping.

Results
One hundred and two participants completed the trial. There were no demographic differences between individuals taking Rhodiola-placebo and those taking placebo-Rhodiola. No significant differences in the incidence of acute mountain sickness were found between R. crenulata extract and placebo groups (all 60.8%; adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.69–1.52). The incidence of severe acute mountain sickness in Rhodiola extract vs. placebo groups was 35.3% vs. 29.4% (AOR = 1.42, 95% CI = 0.90–2.25).

Conclusions

R. crenulata extract was not effective in reducing the incidence or severity of acute mountain sickness as compared to placebo.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.govNCT01536288.