bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Fe-Mg-saponite solid solution series – a hydrothermal synthesis study
Authors: Baldermann A. , Dohrmann R. , Kaufhold S. , Nickel C. , Letofsky-Papst I. , Dietzel M. 
Published: July 2014

AbstractThe boundary conditions of saponite formation are generally considered to be well known, but significant gaps in our knowledge persist in respect to the influence of solution chemistry, temperature, and reaction time on the mineralogy, structure, stability, and chemical composition of laboratory-grown ferrous saponite. In the present study, ferrous saponite and Mgsaponite were synthesized in Teflon-lined, stainless steel autoclaves at 60, 120 and 180°C, alkaline pH, reducing conditions, and initial solutions with molar Si:Fe:Mg ratios of 4:0:2, 4:1:1, 4:1.5:0.5, 4:1.75:0.25, and 4:1.82:0.18. The experimental solutions were prepared by dissolution of sodium orthosilicate (Na4SiO4), iron(II)sulfate (FeSO4·6H2O) and magnesium chloride salts (MgCl2·6H2O with ≤ 0.005 mass% of K and Ca) in 50 mL ultrapure water that contained 0.05% sodium dithionite as the reducing agent. The precipitates obtained at two, five and seven days of reaction time were investigated by X-ray diffraction techniques, transmission electron microscopy analysis, infra-red spectroscopy, and thermo-analytical methods.The precipitates were composed mainly of trioctahedral ferrous saponite, with small admixtures of co-precipitated brucite, opal-CT, and 2-line ferrihydrite, and nontronite as the probable alteration product of ferrous saponite. The compositions of the obtained ferrous saponites were highly variable, (Na0.44−0.59K0.00−0.05Ca0.00−0.02) (Fe2+0.37−2.41Mg0.24−2.44Fe3+0.00−0.28)Σ2.65−2.85[(Fe3+0.00−0.37Si3.63−4.00)O10](OH)2, but show similarities with naturally occurring trioctahedral Fe and Mg end members, except for the Al content. This suggests that a complete solid solution may exist in the Fe-Mg-saponite series.A conceptual reaction sequence for the formation of ferrous saponite is developed based on the experimental solution and solid compositions. Initially, at pH ≥ 10.4, brucite-type octahedral template sheets are formed, where dissolved Si-O tetrahedra are condensed. Subsequent reorganization of the octahedra and tetrahedra via multiple dissolution-precipitation processes finally results in the formation of saponite structures, together with brucite and partly amorphous silica. The extent of Fe2+incorporation in the octahedral template sheets via isomorphic substitution is suggested to stabilize the saponite structure, explaining (i) the abundance of saponite enriched inVIFe2+at elevated Fe supply and (ii) the effect of structural Fe on controlling the net formation rates of ferrous saponite.
Adult adipose-derived stem cells and breast cancer: a controversial relationship
Authors: Bielli Alessandra , Scioli Maria Giovanna , Gentile Pietro , Agostinelli Sara , Tarquini Chiara , Cervelli Valerio , Orlandi Augusto 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and autologous fat grafting is an important clinical application in treatment of post-surgical deformities. The simplicity of fat grafting procedures and the absence of subsequent visible scar prompted an increasing interest for this technique. The plasticity of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) obtained from stromal vascular fraction (SVF) of adult adipose tissue provided exciting perspectives for regenerative medicine and surgery. The recent discovery that SVF/ASC enrichment further ameliorates clinical efficacy of grafting ASCs suggest as ASC-mediated new adipogenesis and vasculogenesis. ASC adipogenic differentiation involves Akt activity and EGFRs, FGFRs, ERbB2 receptor-mediated pathways that also play a pivotal role in the regulation of breast cancer growth. Moreover, the finding that platelet-derived growth factors and hormones improved long-term maintenance of fat grafting raises new concerns for their use during breast reconstruction after cancer surgery. However, it remains unclear whether grafted or resident ASCs may increase the risk of de novo cancer development or recurrence. Preliminary follow-up studies seem to support the efficacy and safety of SVF/ASCs enrichment and the additional benefit from the combined use of autologous platelet-derived growth factors and hormones during breast reconstruction procedures. In the present review we highlighted the complex interplay between resident or grafted ASCs, mature adipocytes, dormant or active breast cancer cells and tumor microenvironment. Actually, data concerning the permissive role of ASCs on breast cancer progression are contrasting, although no clear evidence speaking against their use exists.
Low-dose oral imatinib in the treatment of systemic sclerosis interstitial lung disease unresponsive to cyclophosphamide: a phase II pilot study
Authors: Fraticelli Paolo , Gabrielli Barbara , Pomponio Giovanni , Valentini Gabriele , Bosello Silvia , Riboldi Piersandro , Gerosa Maria , Faggioli Paola , Giacomelli Roberto , Del Papa Nicoletta , Gerli Roberto , Lunardi Claudio , Bombardieri Stefano , Malorni Walter , Corvetta Angelo , Moroncini Gianluca , Gabrielli Armando 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Introduction
Pulmonary involvement represents a major cause of death of systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. Recent data suggest that tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as imatinib, may be a therapeutic option for SSc patients. However, preliminary published clinical trials were inconclusive about imatinib efficacy and showed side effects. The purpose of this study was to verify efficacy and tolerability of low-dose imatinib on interstitial lung disease in a cohort of SSc patients unresponsive to cyclophosphamide therapy.

Methods
Thirty consecutive SSc patients with active pulmonary involvement, unresponsive to cyclophosphamide, were treated with imatinib 200 mg/day for 6 months followed by a 6-month follow-up. A “good response” was defined as an increase of forced vital capacity (FVC) by more of 15% and/or increase of diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO) >15% and PaO2 > 90% of initial value and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT)-scan pattern unchanged or improved.

Results
Twenty-six patients completed the study. Three patients died and one patient was lost to follow-up. Four patients (15.32%) had a good response, 7 worsened and 15 had a stabilized lung disease. Overall, 19 (73.07%) patients had an improved or stabilized lung disease. After a 6-month follow-up, 12 (54.5%) of the 22 patients showed an improved or stabilized lung disease.

Conclusions
Lung function was stabilized in a large proportion of patients unresponsive to cyclophosphamide therapy and a beneficial outcome emerged from the analysis of HRCT lung scans. There was no significant improvement of skin involvement, and the low dose was well tolerated. These data provide useful suggestions to design future randomized clinical trials for SSc therapeutics.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00573326. Registered 13 December 2007.
Morphological characteristics influencing the orthodontic extraction strategies for Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions
Authors: Guo Yongwen , Han Xianglong , Xu Hui , Ai Dongqing , Zeng Huan , Bai Ding 
Published: July 2014

Abstract

Background
Extraction has now been accepted widely in various malocclusions including Angle's class II division 1. However, the levels of scientific evidence in orthodontic treatment planning have been weak, and it is unlikely to systematically provide a rationale and consistent basis in decisions of extraction. This study was retrospectively designed to investigate the initial morphologic characteristics of class II division 1 subjects involving four different extraction strategies, to determine the relevant influential factors when choosing extraction strategies with the most commonly used mechanics and the principle of simplicity in orthodontic treatment based on cases diagnosed and treated by an experienced orthodontist.

Methods
One hundred and ten samples of Angle's class II division 1 malocclusion with good facial and occlusal outcomes after orthodontic treatment were selected and divided into four groups according to different extraction patterns. For each case, pretreatment models and the lateral radiographs were analyzed. Significant variables of models and craniofacial structures of each group were identified by comparing the measurements using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a significance level of P < 0.05. Then, binary logistic regression analysis was used and a regression equation was established to quantify the correlations among the significant variables and their contributions to the extraction decisions.

Results
Molar relationship, lower anterior crowding, anterior Bolton index, and anterior overjet measured from models, as well as ANS-Xi-Pm, NBa-PtGn, Li-NsPog', U1-NPog and L1-NPog measured from lateral radiographs were found to be statistically significant. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that lower anterior crowding, molar relationship, and growth pattern were the three most relevant influential factors with a declining impact contributing to the extraction decisions for Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions.

Conclusions
Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions exhibit various morphological characteristics. Orthodontists should comprehensively consider the reciprocal impact of multiple factors when choosing different extraction strategies for Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions.
Prediction of Survival in Patients With Thin Melanoma: Results From a Multi-Institution Study
Authors: Maurichi Andrea , Miceli Rosalba , Camerini Tiziana , Mariani Luigi , Patuzzo Roberto , Ruggeri Roberta , Gallino Gianfranco , Tolomio Elena , Tragni Gabrina , Valeri Barbara , Anichini Andrea , Mortarini Roberta , Moglia Daniele , Pellacani Giovanni , Bassoli Sara , Longo Caterina , Quaglino Pietro , Pimpinelli Nicola , Borgognoni Lorenzo , Bergamaschi Daniele , Harwood Catherine , Zoras Odysseas , Santinami Mario 
Published: July 2014

Purpose Cutaneous melanoma incidence is increasing. Most new cases are thin (≤ 1 mm) with favorable prognoses, but survival is nonetheless variable. Our aim was to investigate new prognostic factors and construct a nomogram for predicting survival in individual patients. Patients and Methods Data from 2,243 patients with thin melanoma were retrieved from prospectively maintained databases at six centers. Kaplan-Meier survival and crude cumulative incidences of recurrence were estimated, and competing risks were taken into account. Multivariable Cox regression was used to investigate survival predictors. Results Median follow-up was 124 months (interquartile range, 106 to 157 months); 12-year overall survival was 85.3% (95% CI, 83.4% to 87.2%). Median times to local, regional, and distant recurrence were 79, 78, and 107 months, respectively. Relapse was significantly related to age, Breslow thickness, mitotic rate (MR), ulceration, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), and regression; incidence was lower and subgroup differences were less marked for distant metastasis than for regional relapse. The worst prognosis categories were age older than 60 years, Breslow thickness more than 0.75 mm, MR ≥ 1, presence of ulceration, presence of LVI, and regression ≥ 50%. Breslow thickness more than 0.75 mm, MR ≥ 1, presence of ulceration, and LVI (all P = .001) were significantly associated with sentinel node positivity. Age, MR, ulceration, LVI, regression, and sentinel node status were independent predictors of survival and were used to construct a nomogram to predict 12-year overall survival. The nomogram was well calibrated and had good discriminative ability (adjusted Harrell C statistic, 0.88). Conclusion Our findings suggest including LVI and regression as new prognostic factors in the melanoma staging system. The nomogram appears useful for risk stratification in clinical management and for recruiting patients to clinical trials.
Iodine-Induced Hypothyroidism in Full-term Infants With Congenital Heart Disease: More Common Than Currently Appreciated?
Authors: Thaker V. V. , Leung A. M. , Braverman L. E. , Brown R. S. , Levine B. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract

Context:
Iodine is a micronutrient essential for thyroid hormone synthesis. Thyroid hormone is critical for normal neurocognitive development in young infants, and even transient hypothyroidism can cause adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Both iodine deficiency and excess can cause hypothyroidism. Although iodine-induced hypothyroidism is well recognized in premature infants, full-term neonates have received less attention. Infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) are commonly exposed to excess iodine from administration of iodinated contrast agents during cardiac catheterization as well as topical application of iodine-containing antiseptics and dressings; hence, this is a vulnerable population.

Objective:
We report three cases of iodine-induced hypothyroidism in full-term neonates with CHD after cardiac angiography and topical application of iodine-containing antiseptics and dressings in the operative setting.

Results:
Three neonates with CHD and normal thyroid function at birth developed hypothyroidism after exposure to excess iodine. Two of these infants had transient hypothyroidism, and one had severe hypothyroidism requiring ongoing thyroid replacement therapy. All infants were asymptomatic, with hypothyroidism detected incidentally in the inpatient setting due to repeat newborn screening mandated by the long duration of hospitalization in these infants.

Conclusions:
Iodine-induced hypothyroidism may be under-recognized in infants with CHD exposed to excess iodine. Systematic monitoring of thyroid function should be considered to avoid potential long-term adverse neurodevelopmental effects of even transient thyroid dysfunction in this susceptible population.
A novel approach to reconstruct a large full thickness abdominal wall defect: Successful treatment with Matriderm® and Split
Authors: Tong E. , Martin F. , Shelley O. 
Published: July 2014

Objective: Reconstruction of large abdominal wall defects is a challenging procedure, often contraindicated in critically ill patients, with high incidences of complications. We present a case of a patient with a large abdominal wall defect who had reconstruction with MatriDerm® (an engineered dermal template) and split thickness skin grafting (SSG) as an alternative to reconstruction with myo- or fascio-cutaneous flaps. Successful wound closure was achieved with a single technique, while providing a robust reconstruction and an interface between skin and underlying viscera, should further surgery be necessary.
Interaction of linear polyamines with negatively charged phospholipids: the effect of polyamine charge distance
Authors: Finger Sebastian , Schwieger Christian , Arouri Ahmad , Kerth Andreas , Blume Alfred 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
The binding of cationic polyamines to negatively charged lipid membranes is driven by electrostatic interactions and additional hydrophobic contributions. We investigated the effect of polyamines with different number of charges and charge separation on the phase transition behavior of vesicles of phosphatidylglycerols (dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol and dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol) to differentiate between effects caused by the number of charges, the charge distance, and the hydrophobicity of the methylene spacer. Using differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy complemented with monolayer experiments, we found that the binding constant of polyamines to negatively charged lipid vesicles depends as expected on the number of charges. However, for diamines, the effect of binding on the main phase transition of phosphatidylglycerols (PGs) is also strongly influenced by the charge distance between the ammonium groups in the backbone. Oligoamines with charges separated by two or three methylene groups bind more strongly and have larger stabilizing effects on the lipid gel phase of PGs. With multivalent polyamines, the appearance of several transition peaks points to effects of molecular crowding on the surface, i.e., binding of only two or three charges to the surface in the case of spermine, and possible concomitant domain formation.
Biophysical and biochemical analysis of hnRNP K: arginine methylation, reversible aggregation and combinatorial binding to nucleic acids
Authors: Moritz Bodo , Lilie Hauke , Naarmann-de Vries Isabel S. , Urlaub Henning , Wahle Elmar , Ostareck-Lederer Antje , Ostareck Dirk H. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Analysis of arginine methylation, which affects specific protein interactions in eukaryotic cells, requires access to methylated protein for biophysical and biochemical studies. Methylation of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K) upon co-expression with protein arginine methyltransferase 1 in E. coli was monitored by mass spectrometry and found to be identical to the modification of hnRNP K purified from mammalian cells. Recombinant non-methylated and arginine-methylated hnRNP K (MethnRNP K) were used to characterize self-aggregation and nucleic acid binding. Analytical ultracentrifugation and static light scattering experiments revealed that hnRNP K methylation does not impact reversible self-aggregation, which can be prevented by high ionic strength and organic additives. Filter binding assays were used to compare the binding of non-methylated and MethnRNP K to the pyrimidine repeat-containing differentiation control element (DICE) of reticulocyte 15-lipoxygenase mRNA 3′ UTR. No affinity differences were detected for both hnRNP K variants. A series of oligonucleotides carrying various numbers of C4 motifs at different positions was used in steady state competition assays with fluorescently-labeled functional differentiation control element (2R). Quantitative evaluation indicated that all hnRNP K homology domains of hnRNP K contribute differentially to RNA binding, with KH1–KH2 acting as a tandem domain and KH3 as an individual binding domain.
Clinical Benefit Assessment of Vismodegib Therapy in Patients With Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Dreno Brigitte , Basset-Seguin Nicole , Caro Ivor , Yue Huibin , Schadendorf Dirk 
Published: July 2014

Abstract

Purpose.
Vismodegib was approved for the treatment of advanced basal cell carcinoma (aBCC) based on the pivotal ERIVANCE BCC study. The primary endpoint (objective response rate [ORR]) was assessed 9 months after the last patient was enrolled. To confirm the clinical benefit of vismodegib, an additional analysis was performed 12 months after the primary analysis.

Materials and Methods.
ERIVANCE BCC was a multicenter, nonrandomized, two-cohort study of 104 patients with histologically confirmed aBCC. Patients received 150 mg oral vismodegib daily until disease progression, intolerable toxicity, or withdrawal. An independent review panel comprising three expert clinicians reviewed patient photographs individually and as a consensus panel to evaluate baseline disease severity and clinical benefit after vismodegib treatment in 71 patients with locally advanced BCC (laBCC).

Results.
Sixty-three patients were efficacy evaluable; baseline and postprogression photographs for 61 were available for review. Baseline disease severity was judged as 5 or 4 (very severe or moderately severe) in 71.4%. Clinical benefit was observed in 76.2% (significant: 65.1%; some: 11.1%). Interpanelist agreement (maximum difference ≤1 point among panelists’ scores in 65.1% and 87.3% of patients for clinical benefit and baseline disease severity, respectively) and correlation between individual and panel reviews were strong. Clinical benefit scores showed good concordance with the protocol-specified ORR obtained by an independent review facility and with investigator-assessed response.

Conclusion.
Clinical benefit assessed by independent review based on expert clinical judgment provides strong evidence that treatment with vismodegib results in clinically meaningful and durable responses in patients with laBCC.
Did the 2007 PCAOB Disciplinary Order against Deloitte Impose Actual Costs on the Firm or Improve Its Audit Quality?
Authors: Boone Jeff P. , Khurana Inder K. , Raman K. K. 
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACT
We examine whether the December 2007 PCAOB disciplinary order against Deloitte affected Deloitte's switching risk, audit fees, and audit quality relative to the other Big 4 firms over a three-year period following the censure. Our findings suggest that the PCAOB censure was associated with a decrease in Deloitte's ability to retain clients and attract new clients, and a decrease in Deloitte's audit fee growth rates. However, methodologies used in extant archival studies yield little or no evidence to suggest that Deloitte's audit quality was different from that of the other Big 4 firms during a three-year window either before or after the censure. Overall, our results suggest that the PCAOB censure imposed actual costs on Deloitte.
Data Availability: All data are publicly available.
Statistical Analyses of Bioaerosol Concentration at Municipal Landfill Site
Authors: Frączek Krzysztof , Różycki Henryk , Ropek Dariusz 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Air microbial quality of the municipal landfill site and in its surroundings was evaluated. Adverse impact of the municipal landfill site in Tarnow on the atmospheric environment was noted, despite the use of correct waste disposal technology. The sampling site and season of the year significantly affected the numbers of various groups of air microorganisms at the municipal landfill site and in its vicinity. For most cases, the effects of the sampling site on the microbial numbers were stronger than that of the season of the year. In this study, higher microbial numbers were observed at the sampling sites located in the area of the active landfill site compared to those located in its vicinity. The obtained results indicate, that despite the lack of current limits for bioaerosol levels the landfill site, even after its closing and reclamation, may still not be a suitable place for any public usage. Therefore, any regular microbiological studies of air should be carried out for a long time both at the area of landfill site and in its vicinity. These results could allow to define the time, when the landfill site become stable, regarding the numbers of microorganisms released to air.
Technical and Economic Aspects of Photovoltaic Conversion of Southern Poland
Authors: Rodziewicz Tadeusz , Zaremba Aleksander , Wacławek Maria 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
The article presents the results of a 13-year tests and analysis of performance and energy and electrical charge yield for typical photovoltaic modules made of different absorbers. Modules were installed on the south wall of Opole University building (at kard. B. Kominka Street). Registered in this period (2001-2013) values energy and charge of tested modules are presented in reference to 1 Wp their nominal power and to 1 m2 of PV modules. Their annual and monthly distributions, with particular emphasis on the seasonal changes of its parameters and phenomena of aging and degradation of the PV modules structure were shown. In the final part of the article was presented an economic analysis of the profitability of investment in 20 kWp grid connected PV system with and without implemented the program to support investment in renewable energy, which respect to the newly implemented in Poland Act on RES.
Application of Generalized Student’s T-Distribution In Modeling The Distribution of Empirical Return Rates on Selected Stock Exchange Indexes
Authors: Purczyńskiz Jan , Bednarz-Okrzyńska Kamila 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
This paper examines the application of the so called generalized Student’s t-distribution in modeling the distribution of empirical return rates on selected Warsaw stock exchange indexes. It deals with distribution parameters by means of the method of logarithmic moments, the maximum likelihood method and the method of moments. Generalized Student’s t-distribution ensures better fitting to empirical data than the classical Student’s t-distribution.