bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Network Model of the Periodic Synchronization Process in the Dynamics of Calcium Concentration in GnRH Neurons
Authors: Krupa Maciej , Vidal Alexandre , Clément Frédérique 
Published: March 2013

AbstractMathematical neuroendocrinology is a branch of mathematical neurosciences that is specifically interested in endocrine neurons, which have the uncommon ability of secreting neurohormones into the blood. One of the most striking features of neuroendocrine networks is their ability to exhibit very slow rhythms of neurosecretion, on the order of one or several hours. A prototypical instance is that of the pulsatile secretion pattern of GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone), the master hormone controlling the reproductive function, whose origin remains a puzzle issue since its discovery in the seventies. In this paper, we investigate the question of GnRH neuron synchronization on a mesoscopic scale, and study how synchronized events in calcium dynamics can arise from the average electric activity of individual neurons. We use as reference seminal experiments performed on embryonic GnRH neurons from rhesus monkeys, where calcium imaging series were recorded simultaneously in tens of neurons, and which have clearly shown the occurrence of synchronized calcium peaks associated with GnRH pulses, superposed on asynchronous, yet oscillatory individual background dynamics. We design a network model by coupling 3D individual dynamics of FitzHugh–Nagumo type. Using phase-plane analysis, we constrain the model behavior so that it meets qualitative and quantitative specifications derived from the experiments, including the precise control of the frequency of the synchronization episodes. In particular, we show how the time scales of the model can be tuned to fit the individual and synchronized time scales of the experiments. Finally, we illustrate the ability of the model to reproduce additional experimental observations, such as partial recruitment of cells within the synchronization process or the occurrence of doublets of synchronization.
Involvement of TLR7 MyD88-dependent signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of adult-onset Still's disease
Authors: Chen Der-Yuan , Lin Chi-Chen , Chen Yi-Ming , Lan Joung-Liang , Hung Wei-Ting , Chen Hsin-Hua , Lai Kuo-Lung , Hsieh Chia-Wei 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
Introduction
The objective of this study was to investigate the potential role of the Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD).

Methods
Frequencies of TLR7-expressing precursor of myeloid dendritic cells (pre-mDCs) and mDCs in 28 AOSD patients, 28 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and 12 healthy controls (HC) were determined by flow cytometry analysis. Transcript and protein levels of TLR7 signaling molecules in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were evaluated by quantitative PCR and western blotting respectively. Serum cytokines levels were measured by ELISA.

Results
Significantly higher median frequencies of TLR7-expressing pre-mDCs and mDCs were observed in AOSD patients (65.5% and 14.9%, respectively) and in SLE patients (60.3% and 14.4%, respectively) than in HC (42.8% and 8.8%, respectively; both P <0.001). Transcript and protein levels of TLR7-signaling molecules, including MyD88, TRAF6, IRAK4 and IFN-α, were upregulated in AOSD patients and SLE patients compared with those in HC. Disease activity scores were positively correlated with the frequencies of TLR7-expressing mDCs and expression levels of TLR7 signaling molecules in both AOSD and SLE patients. TLR7 ligand (imiquimod) stimulation of PBMCs resulted in significantly enhanced levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-18 and IFN-α in AOSD and SLE patients. Frequencies of TLR7-expressing mDCs and expression levels of TLR7 signaling molecules significantly decreased after effective therapy.

Conclusions
Elevated levels of TLR7 signaling molecules and their positive correlation with disease activity in AOSD patients suggest involvement of the TLR7 signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of this disease. The overexpression of TLR7 MyD88-dependent signaling molecules may be a common pathogenic mechanism for both AOSD and SLE.
Infusion of freshly isolated autologous bone marrow derived mononuclear cells prevents endotoxin-induced lung injury in an ex-vivo perfused swine model
Authors: Rojas Mauricio , Parker Richard E , Thorn Natalie , Corredor Claudia , Iyer Smita S , Bueno Marta , Mroz Lyle , Cardenes Nayra , Mora Ana L , Stecenko Arlene A , Brigham Kenneth L 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
Introduction
The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), affects up to 150,000 patients per year in the United States. We and other groups have demonstrated that bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal stem cells prevent ARDS induced by systemic and local administration of endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide (LPS)) in mice.

Methods
A study was undertaken to determine the effects of the diverse populations of bone marrow derived cells on the pathophysiology of ARDS, using a unique ex-vivo swine preparation, in which only the ventilated lung and the liver are perfused with autologous blood. Six experimental groups were designated as: 1) endotoxin alone, 2) endotoxin + total fresh whole bone marrow nuclear cells (BMC), 3) endotoxin + non-hematopoietic bone marrow cells (CD45 neg), 4) endotoxin + hematopoietic bone marrow cells (CD45 positive), 5) endotoxin + buffy coat and 6) endotoxin + in vitro expanded swine CD45 negative adherent allogeneic bone marrow cells (cultured CD45neg). We measured at different levels the biological consequences of the infusion of the different subsets of cells. The measured parameters were: pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), gas exchange (PO2), lung edema (lung wet/dry weight), gene expression and serum concentrations of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6.

Results
Infusion of freshly purified autologous total BMCs, as well as non-hematopoietic CD45(-) bone marrow cells significantly reduced endotoxin-induced pulmonary hypertension and hypoxemia and reduced the lung edema. Also, in the groups that received BMCs and cultured CD45neg we observed a decrease in the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in plasma. Infusion of hematopoietic CD45(+) bone marrow cells or peripheral blood buffy coat cells did not protect against LPS-induced lung injury.

Conclusions
We conclude that infusion of freshly isolated autologous whole bone marrow cells and the subset of non-hematopoietic cells can suppress the acute humoral and physiologic responses induced by endotoxemia by modulating the inflammatory response, mechanisms that do not involve engraftment or trans-differentiation of the cells. These observations may have important implications for the design of future cell therapies for ARDS.
Prospective Randomized Phase II Trial of a Single Early Intravesical Instillation of Pirarubicin (THP) in the Prevention of Bladder Recurrence After Nephroureterectomy for Upper Urinary Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: The THP Monotherapy Study Group Trial
Authors: Ito Akihiro , Shintaku Ichiro , Satoh Makoto , Ioritani Naomasa , Aizawa Masataka , Tochigi Tatsuo , Kawamura Sadafumi , Aoki Hiroshi , Numata Isao , Takeda Atsushi , Namiki Shunichi , Namima Takashige , Ikeda Yoshihiro , Kambe Koichi , Kyan Atsushi , Ueno Seiji , Orikasa Kazuhiko , Katoh Shinnosuke , Adachi Hisanobu , Tokuyama Satoru , Ishidoya Shigeto , Yamaguchi Takuhiro , Arai Yoichi 
Published: March 2013

Purpose We evaluated the efficacy of a single early intravesical instillation of pirarubicin (THP) in the prevention of bladder recurrence after nephroureterectomy for upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UUT-UC). Patients and Methods From December 2005 to November 2008, 77 patients clinically diagnosed with UUT-UC from 11 institutions participating in the Tohoku Urological Evidence-Based Medicine Study Group were preoperatively enrolled in this study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive or not receive a single instillation of THP (30 mg in 30 mL of saline) into the bladder within 48 hours after nephroureterectomy. Cystoscopy and urinary cytology were repeated every 3 months for 2 years or until the occurrence of first bladder recurrence. Results Seventy-two patients were evaluable for efficacy analysis, 21 of whom had a subsequent bladder recurrence. Significantly fewer patients who received THP had a recurrence compared with the control group (16.9% at 1 year and 16.9% at 2 years in the THP group v 31.8% at 1 year and 42.2% at 2 years in the control group; log-rank P = .025). No remarkable adverse events were observed in the THP-treated group. Based on multivariate analysis, THP instillation (hazard rate [HR], 0.26; 95% CI, 0.07 to 0.91; P = .035) and open surgery (HR, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.09 to 0.84; P = .024) were independently predictive of a reduced incidence of bladder recurrence. Conclusion In this prospective randomized phase II study, a single intravesical instillation of THP seemed to reduce bladder recurrence after nephroureterectomy. A phase III, large-scale, multicenter study is needed to confirm these observations.
Central Venous Catheter Care for the Patient With Cancer: American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Schiffer Charles A. , Mangu Pamela B. , Wade James C. , Camp-Sorrell Dawn , Cope Diane G. , El-Rayes Bassel F. , Gorman Mark , Ligibel Jennifer , Mansfield Paul , Levine Mark 
Published: March 2013

Purpose To develop an evidence-based guideline on central venous catheter (CVC) care for patients with cancer that addresses catheter type, insertion site, and placement as well as prophylaxis and management of both catheter-related infection and thrombosis. Methods A systematic search of MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library (1980 to July 2012) identified relevant articles published in English. Results The overall quality of the randomized controlled trial evidence was rated as good. There is consistency among meta-analyses and guidelines compiled by other groups as well. Recommendations There is insufficient evidence to recommend one CVC type or insertion site; femoral catheterization should be avoided. CVC should be placed by well-trained providers, and the use of a CVC clinical care bundle is recommended. The use of antimicrobial/antiseptic-impregnated and/or heparin-impregnated CVCs is recommended to decrease the risk of catheter-related infections for short-term CVCs, particularly in high-risk groups; more research is needed. The prophylactic use of systemic antibiotics is not recommended before insertion. Data are not sufficient to recommend for or against routine use of antibiotic flush/lock therapy; more research is needed. Before starting antibiotic therapy, cultures should be obtained. Some life-threatening infections require immediate catheter removal, but most can be treated with antimicrobial therapy while the CVC remains in place. Routine flushing with saline is recommended. Prophylactic use of warfarin or low–molecular weight heparin is not recommended, although a tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) is recommended to restore patency to occluded catheters. CVC removal is recommended when the catheter is no longer needed or if there is a radiologically confirmed thrombosis that worsens despite anticoagulation therapy.
Validation of a Cell-Cycle Progression Gene Panel to Improve Risk Stratification in a Contemporary Prostatectomy Cohort
Authors: Cooperberg Matthew R. , Simko Jeffry P. , Cowan Janet E. , Reid Julia E. , Djalilvand Azita , Bhatnagar Satish , Gutin Alexander , Lanchbury Jerry S. , Swanson Gregory P. , Stone Steven , Carroll Peter R. 
Published: March 2013

Purpose We aimed to validate a previously described genetic risk score, denoted the cell-cycle progression (CCP) score, in predicting contemporary radical prostatectomy (RP) outcomes. Methods RNA was quantified from paraffin-embedded RP specimens. The CCP score was calculated as average expression of 31 CCP genes, normalized to 15 housekeeper genes. Recurrence was defined as two prostate-specific antigen levels ≥ 0.2 ng/mL or any salvage treatment. Associations between CCP score and recurrence were examined, with adjustment for clinical and pathologic variables using Cox proportional hazards regression and partial likelihood ratio tests. The CCP score was assessed for independent prognostic utility beyond a standard postoperative risk assessment (Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment post-Surgical [CAPRA-S] score), and a score combining CAPRA-S and CCP was validated. Results Eighty-two (19.9%) of 413 men experienced recurrence. The hazard ratio (HR) for each unit increase in CCP score (range, −1.62 to 2.16) was 2.1 (95% CI, 1.6 to 2.9); with adjustment for CAPRA-S, the HR was 1.7 (95% CI, 1.3 to 2.4). The score was able to substratify patients with low clinical risk as defined by CAPRA-S ≤ 2 (HR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.4 to 3.7). Combining the CCP and CAPRA-S improved the concordance index for both the overall cohort and low-risk subset; the combined CAPRA-S + CCP score consistently predicted outcomes across the range of clinical risk. This combined score outperformed both individual scores on decision curve analysis. Conclusion The CCP score was validated to have significant prognostic accuracy after controlling for all available clinical and pathologic data. The score may improve accuracy of risk stratification for men with clinically localized prostate cancer, including those with low-risk disease.
Synthesis of Polymer–Metal Hybrid Nanoparticle by Photopolymerization of Vinyl Cinnamate in Gas Phase
Authors: Kudoh Satoshi , Orii Takaaki 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
Polymeric vinyl cinnamate (VC)–silver hybrid nanoparticles were synthesized by near-UV irradiation of VC vapor containing silver nanoparticles. The size increase of treated silver nanoparticles was observed using a differential mobility analyzer. The mass spectra of the nanoparticles suggested the presence of photopolymerization products.
New Synthetic Host Pillararenes: Their Synthesis and Application to Supramolecular Materials
Authors: Ogoshi Tomoki , Yamagishi Tada-aki 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
In 2008, we reported a new class of macrocyclic hosts called “pillararenes.” They combine the advantages and aspects of traditional hosts and have a composition similar to those of typical calixarenes. Pillararenes have repeating units connected by methylene bridges at the para-position of benzene moieties, and thus they have a unique symmetric pillar architecture differing from the basket-shaped structure of calixarenes bridged at the meta-position of benzene moieties. Pillararenes show high functionality similar to cyclodextrins and can capture electron-accepting guest molecules within their cavity similarly to cucurbiturils. In this account, the synthesis, structure, and host–guest properties are discussed, along with pillararene-based supramolecular architectures.
Stability of Graphene Oxide Film to Electron Beam Irradiation and Possible Thickness Dependence of Electron Attenuation
Authors: Sugimoto Tatsuya , Kimura Keisaku 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
Graphene oxide (GO), one of the best transparent substrates for electron microscopy of biological substances, is known to be not very stable to exposure to electron beams (e-beams). We present a method of the preparation of GO film highly resistive to e-beams by controlling layer-by-layer thickness and quantitatively examined the stability of GO film thus prepared. Scanning transmission electron microscopic measurements were engaged in these films with 10-kV acceleration-voltage. A simple method is proposed to classify the layer structure of GO. As an application of the method, we determined the electron attenuation length through GO film in nm scale.
Highly Selective Tetrakis(bipyridinium–crown ether)-conjugated Chemosensor for Barium Ions
Authors: Guo Haocheng , Kuwabara Tetsuo 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
A novel guest-responsive color-change host, 1, possessing four bipyridinium-modified benzocrown ethers, was prepared, and its ion-recognition ability was investigated. 1 exhibited a yellow color associated with intramolecular charge-transfer (CT) absorption, which faded upon the addition of alkali metal and alkaline earth metal ions. 1 detected Ba2+ with high sensitivity.
Alleviating the Patient's Price of Privacy Through a Partially Observable Waiting List
Authors: Sandıkçı Burhaneddin , Maillart Lisa M. , Schaefer Andrew J. , Roberts Mark S. 
Published: March 2013

In the United States, end-stage liver disease patients join a waiting list and then make accept/reject decisions for transplantation as deceased-donor organs are offered to them over time. These decisions are largely influenced by the patient's prospect for future offers, which can be ascertained most accurately by knowing the entire composition of the waiting list. Under the current transplantation system, however, the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), in an effort to strike a balance between privacy and transparency, only publishes an aggregated version of the waiting list. However, it is not clear whether the published information is good enough (compared with perfect information) to help patients make optimal decisions that maximize their individual life expectancies. We provide a novel model of this accept/reject problem from an individual patient's perspective using a partially observed Markov decision process (POMDP) framework, which incorporates the imperfect waiting list information as published currently into the patient's decision making. We analyze structural properties of this model. In particular, we establish conditions that guarantee a monotone value function and a threshold-type optimal policy with respect to the partially observable rank state that captures the imperfect waiting list information. Furthermore, we develop an improved solution methodology to solve a generic POMDP model. This solution method guarantees, for any fixed grid, the best possible approximation to the optimal value function by solving linear programs to compute the optimal weights used for the approximation. Finally, we compare, in a clinically driven numerical study, the results of this model with those of an existing Markov decision process model that differs from our model in assuming the availability of perfect waiting list information. This comparison allows us to assess the quality of the published imperfect information as measured by a patient's so-called price of privacy (i.e., the opportunity loss in expected life days due to a lack of perfect waiting list information). Previous work estimates a significant loss in a patient's life expectancy, on average, when the patient has no waiting list information compared with full information. In this paper, we find that the currently published partial information is nearly sufficient to eliminate this loss, resulting in a negligible price of privacy and supporting current UNOS practice. This paper was accepted by Assaf Zeevi, stochastic models and simulation.
Contract Design with a Dominant Retailer and a Competitive Fringe
Authors: Kolay Sreya , Shaffer Greg 
Published: March 2013

We show that under some conditions, quantity discounts and two-part tariffs are equivalent as mechanisms for channel coordination when an upstream firm sells its product in a downstream market that is characterized by a dominant retailer and a competitive fringe. We consider a setting in which discriminatory offers are feasible and a setting in which the same menu of options must be offered to all retailers. We find that the upstream firm's profit in both settings is independent of whether quantity discounts or two-part tariffs are used. The implication of this finding is that the firm's choice of contract design may turn on which one is easier to implement. This paper was accepted by J. Miguel Villas-Boas, marketing.
Open reduction for developmental dysplasia of the hip: failures of screening or failures of treatment?
Authors: Sanghrajka AP , Murnaghan CF , Shekkeris A , Eastwood DM 
Published: March 2013

Introduction The aim of this study was to define the clinical indications and demographic characteristics of patients undergoing open reduction for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), and determine the proportion due to preventable failures of contemporary clinical screening and early management. Methods Case notes were reviewed of consecutive primary open reductions performed for non-teratologic hip dislocation at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children over a five-year period. Forty-eight patients (64 hips) were suitable for inclusion. A telephone survey confirmed selective hip ultrasonography screening protocols were employed in all maternity hospitals in our referral base. Results There were no cases of open reduction for unilateral DDH following Pavlik treatment commenced by six weeks of age, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment. Eleven cases (23%) may have been avoided by appropriate implementation of existing selective ultrasonography screening protocols. Thirty-four cases (71%) presented after four months of age, suggesting open reduction is associated with late diagnosis rather than failure of primary management. None of these patients had neonatal hip ultrasonography and only 12% (4 patients) had a risk factor that should have triggered a scan. Conclusions Compared with published results, the contemporary screening practices in our referral base are failing to eliminate late presenting DDH and the need for open surgical reduction. Changes in strategy and implementation are required to significantly improve screening efficacy.
Regulation of Cation Balance inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Cyert Martha S , Philpott Caroline C 
Published: March 2013

AbstractAll living organisms require nutrient minerals for growth and have developed mechanisms to acquire, utilize, and store nutrient minerals effectively. In the aqueous cellular environment, these elements exist as charged ions that, together with protons and hydroxide ions, facilitate biochemical reactions and establish the electrochemical gradients across membranes that drive cellular processes such as transport and ATP synthesis. Metal ions serve as essential enzyme cofactors and perform both structural and signaling roles within cells. However, because these ions can also be toxic, cells have developed sophisticated homeostatic mechanisms to regulate their levels and avoid toxicity. Studies in Saccharomyces cerevisiae have characterized many of the gene products and processes responsible for acquiring, utilizing, storing, and regulating levels of these ions. Findings in this model organism have often allowed the corresponding machinery in humans to be identified and have provided insights into diseases that result from defects in ion homeostasis. This review summarizes our current understanding of how cation balance is achieved and modulated in baker’s yeast. Control of intracellular pH is discussed, as well as uptake, storage, and efflux mechanisms for the alkali metal cations, Na+ and K+, the divalent cations, Ca2+ and Mg2+, and the trace metal ions, Fe2+, Zn2+, Cu2+, and Mn2+. Signal transduction pathways that are regulated by pH and Ca2+ are reviewed, as well as the mechanisms that allow cells to maintain appropriate intracellular cation concentrations when challenged by extreme conditions, i.e., either limited availability or toxic levels in the environment.