bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Empirical Examination of the Factors Regulating Thunderstorm Initiation
Authors: Lock Noah A. , Houston Adam L. 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Initiation is the part of the convective life cycle that is currently least understood and least well forecast. The inability to properly forecast the timing and/or location of deep convection initiation degrades forecast skill, especially during the warm season. To gain insight into what atmospheric parameters distinguish areas where storms initiate from areas where they do not initiate, over 55 000 thunderstorm initiation points over the central United States from 2005 to 2007 are found and a number of thermodynamic and kinematic parameters are computed from 20-km Rapid Update Cycle (RUC)-2 data. In addition to the initiation points, data are also collected at nearby locations where thunderstorms did not initiate (null points) for comparison. Thunderstorm identification and tracking are done using several tools within the Warning Decision Support Services–Integrated Information (WDSS-II) package and a thunderstorm tracking algorithm called Thunderstorm Observation by Radar (ThOR). The parameters being examined are intended to represent the four main factors governing the behavior of convection: buoyancy, dilution, lift, and inhibition. Statistical analysis of the data shows that there is no threshold of any single parameter that is consistently able to discriminate between initiation and noninitiation. However, case-by-case comparison of the values showed that lift is most often the factor that distinguishes the thunderstorm initiation environment from other areas.
Safety of long-term clozapine administration. Frequency of cardiomyopathy and hyponatraemia: Two cross-sectional, naturalistic studies
Authors: Serrano Ana , Rangel Nairy , Carrizo Edgardo , Uzcátegui Euderruh , Sandia Ignacio , Zabala Angélica , Fernández Erika , Tálamo Eduardo , Servigna Mercedes , Prieto Dexi , Connell Lisette , Baptista Trino 
Published: August 2013

Background: The antipsychotic drug (APD) clozapine (CLZ) is under-prescribed because of concerns about its safety. We evaluated in separate protocols the frequency of cardiomyopathy and hyponatraemia, which are adverse drug effects, where few comparative studies are available. Methods: Cross-sectional studies in subjects treated for at least 3 consecutive months with the same drug were conducted. Cardiomyopathy: Patients undergoing treatment either with CLZ ( n = 125) or with other typical or atypical APDs ( n = 59) were examined by a cardiologist who also recorded echocardiograms and electrocardiograms in order to diagnose cardiomyopathy. Hyponatraemia: Fasting sodium levels were assessed in patients receiving any of the following treatments: CLZ ( n = 88), other atypical APDs ( n = 61), typical APDs ( n = 23), typical + atypical APDs ( n = 11), and other drugs/drug-free ( n = 36). Results: Cardiomyopathy: No case of cardiomyopathy was detected. The frequency of abnormal ventricular ejection fraction (< 55%) was similar in both treatment groups ( p = 1). Hyponatraemia: The frequency of hyponatraemia (percentage; 95% CI) was: CLZ (3.4%; –0.7, 7.1); other atypical APDs (4.9%; –0.5, 10.3); typical APDs (26.1%; 8.2, 44.0); typical + atypical APDs (9.1%; –7.8, 26.0); other drugs/drug-free (0%). None of the CLZ hyponatraemia subjects were on monotherapy. Conclusions: Our results are at odds with previous studies of CLZ-associated cardiomyopathy. However, they must be compared to further cross-sectional or prospective studies because most published data come from either case reports or pharmacovigilance systems. The frequency of hyponatraemia during CLZ administration was similar to that observed with other atypical APDs, and it was significantly lower than that recorded with typical agents. These results, along with numerous case reports on the effects of CLZ in patients with polydipsia and water intoxication, point to a safe or even positive profile of CLZ on electrolytic regulation.
The subjective experience of community treatment orders: Patients’ views and clinical correlations
Authors: Newton-Howes Giles , Banks Doug 
Published: August 2013

Background: There is little objective evidence to support the use of community treatment orders (CTOs) from randomized controlled trials. Qualitative research indicates more negative than positive responses to the use of CTOs. Nonetheless, the use of CTOs is growing internationally. There is no research to identify for whom CTOs may be a positive experience. Aim: To assess patients’ perspectives of CTOs, assessing for correlates with clinical and demographic variables. Methods: Patients currently or previously subject to a CTO were assessed quantitatively to identify their experience. Demographic data, the experience of coercion, views of detention, satisfaction with care, social functioning and psychopathology were correlated using SPSS. Results: Fifty-three per cent of patients felt that they were, on balance, better off when treated informally in the community. Patients described greater coercion and less satisfaction with care when subject to a CTO. These factors, and being in employment, identified patients whom felt harmed by CTOs 61% of the time. Conclusions: This paper highlights that more than half of patients under a CTO consider it negatively. This group is identified by patients who work, experience coercion and are unsatisfied with care. This has implications for the application of CTOs.
Survey on the Need for Bone Graft in Foot and Ankle Fusion Surgery
Authors: Baumhauer Judith F. , Pinzur Michael S. , Daniels Timothy R. , Lin Sheldon S. , Beasley William , Donahue Rafe M. J. , DiGiovanni Christopher W. 
Published: August 2013

Background: Generally, autologous bone graft is felt to be an important treatment adjunct in the presence of structural deformity, surface irregularities, defects (due to trauma, surgery, or degenerative changes), or underlying comorbidities that predispose the patient to healing challenges. This study assessed the prognostic and predictive factors used in the clinical decision making for bone graft supplementation in foot and ankle fusion surgery. Methods: Utilizing standard survey research methodology, key-informant interviews, pretesting, and pilot testing; a survey was constructed. The survey consisted of a web-based 5-point Likert-type scale ( never, seldom, sometimes, almost always, always) listing 14 clinical and 11 radiologic criteria that may influence the use of autologous bone grafting or other biologic augmentation in foot and ankle surgery. This survey was sent to Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeons in North America and Canada. Results: A total of 48 foot and ankle surgeons completed the blinded survey (73% response rate). More than 70% of responders felt bone graft was almost always (AA) or always (A) indicated in prior nonunion of the indicated joint (96%). Fewer than 50% of respondents felt poor soft tissue integrity (20%), prior foot and ankle infection (20%), and current foot and ankle infection (4%) needed bone graft. Radiologic factors marked as AA or A in over 70% of responders include radiographic evidence of nonunion (96%), avascular necrosis (87%), and others. Factors chosen as AA or A by fewer than 50% of surgeons include prior adjacent joint fusions (47%), intra-articular deformity (31%), and extra-articular deformity (13%). Conclusions: There was some uniformity of agreement on the number of both clinical and radiologic factors that prompt a surgeon to utilize autologous bone graft to try to avoid the complication of nonunion. Surgeons may wish to consider these factors when making a decision on the use of bone graft to supplement fusion.
Sildenafil dilates ophthalmic artery in type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Zwain Akeel AMH , Hadi Najah R , Al-Mudhaffer Ahmed M 
Published: August 2013

Background: Conflicting reports exist on the effect of sildenafil on ophthalmic artery blood flow; many visual disturbances due to vascular insult were reported with the use of sildenafil in diabetic patients like nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy. Objectives: The present work aimed to investigate whether sildenafil modulates ophthalmic artery vasoreactivity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Literature reports on this aspect are lacking. Methods: A total of 35 male subjects were enrolled in this study, 18 with type 2 diabetes mellitus matched with 17 normal individuals. Ophthalmic artery was insonated through a transorbital window using colored Doppler equipment with transcranial Doppler facility. Ophthalmic artery reactivity was assessed using breath holding/hyperventilation test, before and after giving 50 mg oral sildenafil. Results: It was found that in both normal subjects and diabetic patients, sildenafil increased baseline control of mean flow velocity of ophthalmic artery significantly (p < 0.05), breath holding caused a decrease of MFVopa (p < 0.05), and subsequent hyperventilation caused increase of MFVopa (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant change in breath holding index and full range of vasodilatation of ophthalmic artery (p > 0.05) after sildenafil, in normal and diabetic groups. There was a significant increase of resistive index of ophthalmic artery flow in diabetic patients compared with that of normal subject (p < 0.05). Sildenafil decreased resistive index of ophthalmic artery flow significantly only in diabetic patients (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Sildenafil increased MFVopa, but had no significant effect on vasoreactivity of ophthalmic artery; sildenafil decreased resistive index only in type 2 diabetic patients.
Posterolateral Bundle Reconstruction With Anteromedial Bundle Remnant Preservation in ACL Tears
Authors: Sonnery-Cottet Bertrand , Zayni Rachad , Conteduca Jacopo , Archbold Pooler , Prost Thierry , Carrillon Yannick , Clechet Julien , Thaunat Mathieu 
Published: August 2013

Background: Augmentation consisting of a selective reconstruction of the ruptured bundle while preserving the remnant bundle has been proposed as a treatment option for partial anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. Good clinical outcomes after selective anteromedial (AM) bundle augmentation have been reported, whereas little is known about selective reconstruction of the posterolateral (PL) bundle with preservation of the AM bundle remnant. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of selective PL bundle reconstruction with a median follow-up of 24 months. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: In a consecutive series of 741 ACL reconstructions, 44 patients underwent a selective PL bundle reconstruction with preservation of the AM remnant. Four patients with contralateral knee ligament surgery and 1 patient who sustained a traumatic rupture of his graft were excluded, leaving 39 patients for final evaluation. Clinical evaluation of knee function and laxity were recorded preoperatively and at a mean 24.2-month follow-up. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed on 35 patients at a mean 25.9-month follow-up for evaluation of graft and remnant bundle continuity, tunnel enlargement, and graft remodeling status by measuring the signal intensity of the graft (contrast/noise quotient [CNQ]). Results: Tegner and Lysholm knee scores were significantly improved after surgery. The subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score was 43.5 ± 16.6 preoperatively and 89.9 ± 6.6 at the final follow-up ( P < .01). The objective IKDC score was “B” for 17 patients, “C” for 21 patients, and “D” for 1 patient preoperatively, while it was “A” for 34 patients and “B” for 5 patients postoperatively ( P < .01). The mean side-to-side anteroposterior laxity was 5 mm (range, 4-10 mm) preoperatively and 1.5 mm (range, −1 to 4 mm) at final follow-up ( P < .01). On MRI, the graft was visible and continuous in all cases. No cyclops lesions were noted. The average CNQ for the PL graft and the AM remnant bundle was 3.2 ± 1 and 2.9 ± 1.2, respectively. Minimum bone tunnel enlargement was found. Conclusion: Selective PL bundle reconstruction restores knee stability and function. At final follow-up, MRI showed continuity of the PL graft without signs of dramatic tunnel enlargement or cyclops syndrome.
Impact of microRNAs on regulatory networks and pathways in human colorectal carcinogenesis and development of metastasis
Authors: Pizzini Silvia , Bisognin Andrea , Mandruzzato Susanna , Biasiolo Marta , Facciolli Arianna , Perilli Lisa , Rossi Elisabetta , Esposito Giovanni , Rugge Massimo , Pilati Pierluigi , Mocellin Simone , Nitti Donato , Bortoluzzi Stefania , Zanovello Paola 
Published: August 2013

Abstract

Background
Qualitative alterations or abnormal expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) in colon cancer have mainly been demonstrated in primary tumors. Poorly overlapping sets of oncomiRs, tumor suppressor miRNAs and metastamiRs have been linked with distinct stages in the progression of colorectal cancer. To identify changes in both miRNA and gene expression levels among normal colon mucosa, primary tumor and liver metastasis samples, and to classify miRNAs into functional networks, in this work miRNA and gene expression profiles in 158 samples from 46 patients were analysed.

Results
Most changes in miRNA and gene expression levels had already manifested in the primary tumors while these levels were almost stably maintained in the subsequent primary tumor-to-metastasis transition. In addition, comparing normal tissue, tumor and metastasis, we did not observe general impairment or any rise in miRNA biogenesis. While only few mRNAs were found to be differentially expressed between primary colorectal carcinoma and liver metastases, miRNA expression profiles can classify primary tumors and metastases well, including differential expression of miR-10b, miR-210 and miR-708. Of 82 miRNAs that were modulated during tumor progression, 22 were involved in EMT. qRT-PCR confirmed the down-regulation of miR-150 and miR-10b in both primary tumor and metastasis compared to normal mucosa and of miR-146a in metastases compared to primary tumor. The upregulation of miR-201 in metastasis compared both with normal and primary tumour was also confirmed. A preliminary survival analysis considering differentially expressed miRNAs suggested a possible link between miR-10b expression in metastasis and patient survival. By integrating miRNA and target gene expression data, we identified a combination of interconnected miRNAs, which are organized into sub-networks, including several regulatory relationships with differentially expressed genes. Key regulatory interactions were validated experimentally. Specific mixed circuits involving miRNAs and transcription factors were identified and deserve further investigation. The suppressor activity of miR-182 on ENTPD5 gene was identified for the first time and confirmed in an independent set of samples.

Conclusions
Using a large dataset of CRC miRNA and gene expression profiles, we describe the interplay of miRNA groups in regulating gene expression, which in turn affects modulated pathways that are important for tumor development.
A rapid and efficient way to manage hyponatremia in patients with SIADH and small cell lung cancer: treatment with tolvaptan
Authors: Petereit Claudia , Zaba Okan , Teber Ishak , Lüders Heike , Grohé Christian 
Published: August 2013

Abstract

Background
Hyponatremia based on syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone hypersecretion (SIADH) is observed in up to 15% of patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The electrolyte imbalance is associated with a high morbidity and mortality and often delays appropriate treatment. Management of hyponatremia proved to be challenging until new vasopressin-2 receptor antagonists such as tolvaptan became available. This is the first report which presents a prospective case series with an efficient management of hyponatremia including tolvaptan in ten patients with SCLC and severe SIADH (plasma sodium < 125 mmol/l).

Methods
Ten patients with SCLC and severe SIADH were followed after the onset of clinical symptoms of SIADH. Patients were chosen on the basis of histological proven diagnosis of SCLC and the clinical picture of a neurocognitive deficit caused by SIADH-related hyponatremia. All patient data were monitored for clinical improvement based on ECOG status, commencement of chemotherapy and correction of sodium levels.

Results
The treatment followed a diagnostic and treatment algorithm and lead to a rapid and efficient correction of both clinical symptoms and plasma sodium level.

Conclusions
Based on this algorithm all patients started chemotherapy in time. Subsequently, the treatment with tolvaptan lead to an improvement of the ECOG-performance status. In addition, all patients benefit from the effective management of SIADH which omitted prolonged hospital stays and non-elective hospitalizations due to an unstable clinical condition due to severe hyponatremia. These observations add new insight to management of SIADH in thoracic oncology and are of interest for specialists in oncology, endocrinology and pulmonary medicine.
Shifting perceptions: a pre-post study to assess the impact of a senior resident rotation bundle
Authors: Fabreau Gabriel , Elliott Meghan , Khanna Suneil , Minty Evan , Wallace Jean E , de Grood Jill , Lewin Adriane , Brown Garielle , Bharwani Aleem , Gilmour Janet , Lemaire Jane B 
Published: August 2013

Abstract

Background
Extended duty hours for residents are associated with negative consequences. Strategies to accommodate duty hour restrictions may also have unintended impacts. To eliminate extended duty hours and potentially lessen these impacts, we developed a senior resident rotation bundle that integrates a night float system, educational sessions on sleep hygiene, an electronic handover tool, and a simulation-based medical education curriculum. The aim of this study was to assess internal medicine residents’ perceptions of the impact of the bundle on three domains: the senior residents’ wellness, ability to deliver quality health care, and medical education experience.

Methods
This prospective study compared eligible residents’ experiences (N = 67) before and after a six-month trial of the bundle at a training program in western Canada. Data was collected using an on-line survey. Pre- and post-intervention scores for the final sample (N = 50) were presented as means and compared using the t-test for paired samples.

Results
Participants felt that most aspects of the three domains were unaffected by the introduction of the bundle. Four improved and two worsened perception shifts emerged post-intervention: less exposure to personal harm, reduced potential for medical error, more successful teaching, fewer disruptions to other rotations, increased conflicting role demands and less staff physician supervision.

Conclusions
The rotation bundle integrates components that potentially ease some of the perceived negative consequences of night float rotations and duty hour restrictions. Future areas of study should include objective measures of the three domains to validate our study participants’ perceptions.
First report of a phylogenetic analysis of an autochthonous Plasmodium vivax strain isolated from a malaria case in East Attica, Greece
Authors: Ioannidis Anastasios , Nicolaou Chryssoula , Stoupi Athina , Kossyvakis Athanasios , Matsoukas Petros , Liakata Melina-Vassiliki , Magiorkinis Emmanouil , Petinaki Efthimia , Chatzipanagiotou Stylianos 
Published: August 2013

Abstract
Malaria has become an emerging infection in Greece, which is the doorstep to Europe for thousands of immigrants. With increasing immigration, cases with evidence of domestic transmission (autochthonous) are being reported. In the present study, an isolate of Plasmodium vivax from an autochthonous clinical case was subjected to phylogenetic analysis of the genes encoding the merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP-1) and the circumsporozoite protein (CSP). In the MSP region, the strain was related with strains from Brazil, South Korea, Turkey and Thailand, whereas in the CSP region, with strains from Brazil, Colombia and New Guinea. The present study establishes for the first time in Greece the basis for the creation of a database comprising genotypic and phylogenetic characteristics of Plasmodium spp.
Cancer risk in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMID)
Authors: Beyaert Rudi , Beaugerie Laurent , Van Assche Gert , Brochez Lieve , Renauld Jean-Christophe , Viguier Manuelle , Cocquyt Veronique , Jerusalem Guy , Machiels Jean-Pascal , Prenen Hans , Masson Pierre , Louis Edouard , De Keyser Filip 
Published: August 2013

AbstractInflammation and cancer have a profound yet ambiguous relationship. Inflammation - especially chronic inflammation - has protumorigenic effects, but inflammatory cells also mediate an immune response against the tumor and immunosuppression is known to increase the risk for certain tumors.This article reviews current literature on the role of inflammation in cancer and the cancer risk in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). We discuss the effect on cancer risk of different drug classes used in the treatment of IMIDs treatment, including biologicals such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors.Overall cancer incidence and mortality risk are similar to the general population in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and slightly increased for rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, with risk profiles differing for different tumor types. Increased risk for non-melanoma skin cancer is associated with thiopurine treatment in IBD, with the combination of anti-TNF and methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis and with PUVA, cyclosporine and anti-TNF treatment in psoriasis. Data on the safety of using biologic or immunosuppressant therapy in IMID patients with a history of cancer are scarce.This review provides clinicians with a solid background to help them in making decisions about treatment of immune-mediated diseases in patients with a tumor history.This article is related to another review article in Molecular Cancer:http://www.molecular-cancer.com/content/12/1/86.
Linking neuronal brain activity to the glucose metabolism
Authors: Göbel Britta , Oltmanns Kerstin M , Chung Matthias 
Published: August 2013

AbstractBackgroundEnergy homeostasis ensures the functionality of the entire organism. The human brain as a missing link in the global regulation of the complex whole body energy metabolism is subject to recent investigation. The goal of this study is to gain insight into the influence of neuronal brain activity on cerebral and peripheral energy metabolism. In particular, the tight link between brain energy supply and metabolic responses of the organism is of interest. We aim to identifying regulatory elements of the human brain in the whole body energy homeostasis.MethodsFirst, we introduce a general mathematical model describing the human whole body energy metabolism. It takes into account the two central roles of the brain in terms of energy metabolism. The brain is considered as energy consumer as well as regulatory instance. Secondly, we validate our mathematical model by experimental data. Cerebral high-energy phosphate content and peripheral glucose metabolism are measured in healthy men upon neuronal activation induced by transcranial direct current stimulation versus sham stimulation. By parameter estimation we identify model parameters that provide insight into underlying neurophysiological processes. Identified parameters reveal effects of neuronal activity on regulatory mechanisms of systemic glucose metabolism.ResultsOur examinations support the view that the brain increases its glucose supply upon neuronal activation. The results indicate that the brain supplies itself with energy according to its needs, and preeminence of cerebral energy supply is reflected. This mechanism ensures balanced cerebral energy homeostasis.ConclusionsThe hypothesis of the central role of the brain in whole body energy homeostasis as active controller is supported.