bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
2010 Western North Pacific Typhoon Season: Seasonal Overview and Forecast Using a Track-Pattern-Based Model
Authors: Kim Joo-Hong , Ho Chang-Hoi , Kim Hyeong-Seog , Choi Woosuk 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
Fourteen named tropical cyclones (TCs) formed in the western North Pacific (WNP) in 2010, representing the lowest count since 1951. Both low activity during the typhoon season (June–October) and quiescence during the pre- and posttyphoon seasons were major contributing factors. Despite overall low activity, TC activity along land boundaries was enhanced because the overall genesis locations of TCs shifted to the north and west and a majority of them affected the coastal countries in the WNP. These features are attributed to the expansion of the subtropical high and weakening of the monsoon trough associated with the rapid transition of the 2009/10 El Niño to the 2010/11 La Niña. The National Typhoon Center (NTC) in South Korea utilizes the recently developed track-pattern-based model of the hybrid statistical–dynamical type as the operational long-range TC forecast system. This model fairly forecast the anomalous spatial distribution of TC track density for the 2010 typhoon season. A higher-than-normal track density was successfully forecast near Korea and Japan. This is attributed to the overall skillful forecast of TC count for each pattern by the NTC model, though some deficiencies in forecasting extremes for some patterns are evident. The total seasonal genesis frequency integrated over the seven patterns is well below normal (about 16.4) close to the observations. The fair predictability in 2010 using the NTC model is attributed to the skillful forecast of the ENSO transition by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction’s Climate Forecast System, in addition to the validity of the NTC model itself.
Microbubble Therapy Enhances Anti‐tumor Properties of Cisplatin and Cetuximab In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Heath Cara H. , Sorace Anna , Knowles Joseph , Rosenthal Eben , Hoyt Kenneth 
Published: February 2012

ObjectiveTo determine if microbubble‐mediated ultrasound therapy (MB‐UST) can improve cisplatin or cetuximab cytotoxicity of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in vitro and in vivo by increasing tumor‐specific drug delivery by disruption of tumor cell membranes and enhancing vascular permeability.Study DesignIn vitro and in vivo study.SettingUniversity medical center.SubjectsImmunodeficient mice (6 weeks old) and 4 HNSCC cell lines.MethodsChanges to cell permeability were assessed in vitro after MB‐UST. Cellular apoptosis resulting from adjuvant MB‐UST with subtherapeutic doses of cisplatin or cetuximab was assessed by cell survival assays in vitro. The in vivo effect of adjuvant MB‐UST in flank tumors was assessed in vivo with histological analysis and diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW‐MRI).ResultsIn vitro results revealed that MB‐UST can increase cell permeability and enhance drug uptake and apoptosis in 4 HNSCC cell lines. In vivo adjuvant MB‐UST with cetuximab or cisplatin showed a statistically significant reduction in tumor size when compared with untreated controls. TUNEL analysis yielded a larger number of cells undergoing apoptosis in tumors treated with cetuximab and adjuvant MB‐UST than did cetuximab alone but was not significantly greater in tumors treated with cisplatin and adjuvant MB‐UST compared with cisplatin alone. DW‐MRI analysis showed more free water, which corresponds to increased cell membrane disruption, in tumors treated with MB‐UST.ConclusionMB‐UST promotes disruption of cell membranes in tumor cells in vitro, which may be leveraged to selectively improve the uptake of conventional and targeted therapeutics in vivo.
Snoring Management with Nasal Surgery and Upper Airway Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: Carroll William , Wilhoit Christina S. , Intaphan Jared , Nguyen Shaun A. , Gillespie M. Boyd 
Published: February 2012

ObjectiveTo review techniques and outcomes of nasal surgery with upper airway radiofrequency ablation (RFA) when used for socially disruptive snoring, including the rate of infection with reused RFA applicator tips.Study DesignCase series with chart review.SettingCommunity‐based sleep‐disordered breathing clinic.MethodsA prospectively acquired sleep quality assurance database was reviewed to determine demographics, complications, snoring outcomes, level of daytime sleepiness, and sleep‐related quality of life in patients with socially disruptive snoring treated with nasal surgery and upper airway RFA.ResultsOne hundred thirty patients (48 women; 82 men) with a mean age of 50 years (range, 24‐83 years) underwent nasal surgery and upper airway RFA for the treatment of chronic nasal blockage with socially disruptive snoring. All patients underwent septoplasty with or without inferior turbinate reduction and RFA to the soft palate and/or base of tongue. Patients received a mean of 2.2 (range, 1‐4) applications of upper airway RFA during the course of treatment. No infections occurred with reuse of applicator tips. Fifty‐four bed partners (42%) reported complete snoring resolution, whereas 68 (52%) reported residual snoring that was improved. Snoring resolution was more common in patients who underwent repeated applications of upper airway RFA (odds ratio 2.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.09‐5.26).ConclusionNasal surgery combined with upper airway RFA improved snoring with few complications in this series of patients with anatomic nasal obstruction with socially disruptive snoring. Reuse of RFA applicator tips at palatal sites reduces cost without an observed increase in the risk of upper airway infection.
An investigation of the validity of six measures of physical function in people awaiting joint replacement surgery of the hip or knee
Authors: Gill Stephen D , de Morton Natalie A , Mc Burney Helen 
Published: February 2012

Objective: To assess and compare the validity of six physical function measures in people awaiting hip or knee joint replacement. Design: Eighty-two people awaiting hip or knee replacement were assessed using six physical function measures including the WOMAC Function scale, SF-36 Physical Function scale, SF-36 Physical Component Summary scale, Patient Specific Functional Scale, 30-second chair stand test, and 50-foot timed walk. Validity was assessed using a head-to-head comparison design. Results: Convergent validity was demonstrated with significant correlations between most measures (Spearman’s rho 0.22 to 0.71). The Patient Specific Functional Scale had the lowest correlations with other measures of physical function. Discriminant validity was demonstrated with low correlations between mental health and physical function scores (Spearman’s rho −0.12 to 0.33). Only the WOMAC Function scale, 30-second chair stand test, and 50-foot timed walk demonstrated known groups validity when scores for participants who walked with a gait aid were compared with those who did not. Standardized response means and Guyatt’s responsiveness indexes indicated that the SF-36 was the least responsive measure. Conclusions: For those awaiting joint replacement surgery of the hip or knee, the current investigation found that the WOMAC Function scale, 30-second chair stand test, and 50-foot timed walk demonstrated the most evidence of validity. The Patient Specific Functional Scale might complement other measures by capturing a different aspect of physical function.
Whole-body vibration in addition to strength and balance exercise for falls-related functional mobility of frail older adults: a single-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pollock Ross D , Martin Finbarr C , Newham Di J 
Published: February 2012

Objectives: To investigate the effects of whole-body vibration in addition to an exercise programme on functional mobility and related outcomes for frail older fallers. Design: Single-blind randomized parallel group trial. Setting: UK; National Health Service assessment and rehabilitation facility for older people. Participants: Frail older fallers: 38 (80 ± 8.6 years) performed the exercise with whole-body vibration (vibration group), and 39 (82 ± 8.1 years) without (exercise group). Intervention: Sixty minutes supervised exercise class three times weekly for eight weeks ± whole-body vibration (up to 5 × 1 minute, 15–30 Hz and 2–8 mm peak-to-peak). Measurements: Timed Up and Go, 6-m walk, static balance, fear of falling (FES-I) and self-reported health status (SF-12 version 2) were assessed at baseline, four weeks (mobility measures only), eight weeks and six months. Results: Timed Up and Go and 6-m walk improved in both groups at eight weeks ( P < 0.01), but significantly more in the vibration group (timed up and go: 38 vs. 20%, P < 0.05); 6-m walk: (36 vs. 18.1%, P < 0.05, respectively). Balance, fear of falling and physical component of the self-reported health status improved similarly in both groups ( P < 0.05). At follow-up, no significant differences from baseline remained for any measure. The mean total time experienced was 37% of maximal target. Conclusion: The addition of whole-body vibration to strength and balance exercise resulted in greater improvements in functional mobility than exercise alone, despite achieving lower than anticipated exposure. Gains from neither intervention were sustained at six months.
The effects of exposure to electromagnetic field on rat myocardium
Authors: Kiray Amac , Tayefi Hamid , Kiray Muge , Bagriyanik Husnu Alper , Pekcetin Cetin , Ergur Bekir Ugur , Ozogul Candan 
Published: February 2012

Exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) causes increased adverse effects on biological systems. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of EMF on heart tissue by biochemical and histomorphological evaluations in EMF-exposed adult rats. In this study, 28 male Wistar rats weighing 200–250 g were used. The rats were divided into two groups: sham group ( n = 14) and EMF group ( n = 14). Rats in sham group were exposed to same conditions as the EMF group except the exposure to EMF. Rats in EMF group were exposed to a 50-Hz EMF of 3 mT for 4 h/day and 7 days/week for 2 months. After 2 months of exposure, rats were killed; the hearts were excised and evaluated. Determination of oxidative stress parameters was performed spectrophotometrically. To detect apoptotic cells, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and caspase-3 immunohistochemistry were performed. In EMF-exposed group, levels of lipid peroxidation significantly increased and activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase decreased compared with sham group. The number of TUNEL-positive cells and caspase-3 immunoreactivity increased in EMF-exposed rats compared with sham. Under electron microscopy, there were mitochondrial degeneration, reduction in myofibrils, dilated sarcoplasmic reticulum and perinuclear vacuolization in EMF-exposed rats. In conclusion, the results show that the exposure to EMF causes oxidative stress, apoptosis and morphologic damage in myocardium of adult rats. The results of our study indicate that EMF-related changes in rat myocardium could be the result of increased oxidative stress. Further studies are needed to demonstrate whether the exposure to EMF can induce adverse effects on myocardium.
Citric acid production from Aspergillus niger MT-4 using hydrolysate extract of the insect Locusta migratoria
Authors: Taskin Mesut , Tasar Gani Erhan , Incekara Umit 
Published: February 2012

Citric acid (CA) is the most important organic acid used in the food and other industries. Locusta migratoria is an insect species, which has rich nutritional composition (especially protein) and cultivated in some countries. Therefore, the present study investigated the usability of hydrolysate extract of L. migratoria biomass as substrate for the production of CA from Aspergillus niger MT-4. The insect extract (IE) was found to be rich in ash (34.9 g/100 g), protein (35.6 g/100 g) and mineral contents. Yeast extract was found to be the most favorable substrate for biomass production, whereas the maximum production of CA (41.8 g/L) was achieved in the medium containing IE. Besides, uniform pellets with the smallest size (4 mm) were observed in IE medium. It was thought that rich magnesium (6.78 g/100 g) and manganese (1.14 g/100 g) contents of IE increased the production of CA, resulting in the formation of small uniform pellets. This is the first report on the effect of protein-rich insect biomasses on the production of CA. In this regard, L. migratoria biomass was tested for the first time as a CA-production substrate.
Use of Dietary Supplements for Cognitive Health
Authors: Laditka James N. , Laditka Sarah B. , Tait Elizabeth M. , Tsulukidze M. Maka 
Published: February 2012

We studied use of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other dietary supplements for cognitive health. We refer to these products as supplements. Data were from the 2007 National Health Interview Survey, which asked about complementary and alternative medicine (n = 22 783). Chi-square and multivariate logistic analyses were weighted for national representativeness, accounting for the survey design. Among supplement users, about 8.8% of those without cognitive problems used them for cognitive health; 15.7% of those with cognitive problems did so. Fish oil, Ginkgo biloba, and vitamins were commonly used for cognitive health. Among supplement users, 38% did not tell health care providers. In adjusted results, adults reporting cognitive problems were more likely than others to use supplements for cognitive health (odds ratio 1.77, confidence interval 1.39-2.25). Adults are more likely to use supplements to treat or cure cognitive problems than to prevent them. Many do not discuss this use with health care providers.
A review of second primary malignancy in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide
Authors: Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Richardson Paul G. , Brandenburg Nancy , Yu Zhinuan , Weber Donna M. , Niesvizky Ruben , Morgan Gareth J. 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
In a retrospective pooled analysis of 11 clinical trials of lenalidomide-based therapy for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM; N = 3846), the overall incidence rate (IR, events per 100 patient-years) of second primary malignancies (SPMs) was 3.62. IR of invasive (hematologic and solid tumor) SPMs was 2.08, consistent with the background incidence of developing cancer. In a separate analysis of pooled data from pivotal phase 3 trials of relapsed or refractory MM (N = 703), the overall IR of SPMs was 3.98 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.51-6.31) with lenalidomide/dexamethasone and 1.38 (95% CI, 0.44-4.27) with placebo/dexamethasone; IRs of nonmelanoma skin cancers were 2.40 (95% CI, 1.33-4.33) and 0.91 (95% CI, 0.23-3.66), respectively; IRs of invasive SPMs were 1.71 (95% CI, 0.86-3.43) and 0.91 (95% CI, 0.23-3.66), respectively. The risk of SPMs must be taken into account before initiating lenalidomide treatment. In the context of the observed survival benefit in relapsed or refractory MM patients, the benefit/risk profile of lenalidomide/dexamethasone remains positive.
N-cadherin in osteolineage cells is not required for maintenance of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Greenbaum Adam M. , Revollo Leila D. , Woloszynek Jill R. , Civitelli Roberto , Link Daniel C. 
Published: February 2012

Abstract
There is evidence suggesting that N-cadherin expression on osteoblast lineage cells regulates hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) function and quiescence. To test this hypothesis, we conditionally deleted N-cadherin (Cdh2) in osteoblasts using Cdh2flox/flox Osx-Cre mice. N-cadherin expression was efficiently ablated in osteoblast lineage cells as assessed by mRNA expression and immunostaining of bone sections. Basal hematopoiesis is normal in these mice. In particular, HSC number, cell cycle status, long-term repopulating activity, and self-renewal capacity were normal. Moreover, engraftment of wild-type cells into N-cadherin–deleted recipients was normal. Finally, these mice responded normally to G-CSF, a stimulus that mobilizes HSCs by inducing alterations to the stromal micro-environment. In conclusion, N-cadherin expression in osteoblast lineage cells is dispensable for HSC maintenance in mice.
Exposure to second-hand smoke and reproductive outcomes depending on maternal asthma
Authors: Sunyer Jordi , Garcia-Esteban Raquel , Castilla Ane Miren , Aurrekoetxea Juan José , Iñiguez Carmen , Tardón Adonina , Espada Mercedes , Lertxundi Aitana , Chatzi Leda , Rebagliato Marisa , Kogevinas Manolis 
Published: February 2012

Tobacco consumption and exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) are associated with reduced birth weight. One issue that has not been clarified previously is that of the potential higher risk of this outcome in mothers with asthma. We assessed the role of prenatal maternal tobacco use and SHS on reproductive outcomes and assessed the interaction with maternal history of asthma.Data was collected from the INMA study, a maternal birth cohort selected from the general population established in Spain in 2002. We measured cotinine at the 32nd week of pregnancy in 2,219 females. Diagnosed maternal asthma was self-reported during pregnancy.35% of mothers reported not being exposed to smoking or SHS during pregnancy. Active smoking (i.e.self-reported or cotinine >50 ng·mL−1) was related to a 134 g decrease in birth weight and a relative risk of 1.8 for small for gestational age and fetal growth restriction. These results were not modified by maternal asthma. Maternal asthma had a similar frequency in all exposure groups. Non SHS-exposed females had the lowest prevalence of asthma. SHS (i.e.cotinine 20–50 ng·mL−1) decreased birth weight by 32 g among those without maternal asthma, but these differences were not statistically significant (95% CI -88.76–24.76). Maternal asthma did not promote these effects.Maternal history of asthma did not modify the effects of smoking on reproductive outcomes in a cohort sampled from the general population.
Safety and efficacy of exercise training in various forms of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Grünig Ekkehard , Lichtblau Mona , Ehlken Nicola , Ghofrani Hossein A. , Reichenberger Frank , Staehler Gerd , Halank Michael , Fischer Christine , Seyfarth Hans-Jürgen , Klose Hans , Meyer Andreas , Sorichter Stephan , Wilkens Heinrike , Rosenkranz Stephan , Opitz Christian , Leuchte Hanno , Karger Gabriele , Speich Rudolf , Nagel Christian 
Published: February 2012

The objective of this prospective study was to assess safety and efficacy of exercise training in a large cohort of patients with different forms and World Health Organization (WHO) functional classes of chronic pulmonary hypertension (PH).183 patients with PH (pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), chronic thromboembolic PH and PH due to respiratory or left heart diseases received exercise training in hospital for 3 weeks and continued at home. Adverse events have been monitored during the in-hospital training programme. Efficacy parameters were evaluated at baseline, and after 3 and 15 weeks.After 3 and 15 weeks, patients significantly improved the distance walked in 6 min (6MWD) compared to baseline, scores of quality of life, WHO functional class, peak oxygen consumption, oxygen pulse, heart rate and systolic pulmonary artery pressure at rest and maximal workload. The improvement in 6MWD was similar in patients with different PH forms and functional classes. Even in severely affected patients (WHO functional class IV), exercise training was highly effective. Adverse events, such as respiratory infections, syncope or presyncope, occurred in 13% of patients.Exercise training in PH is an effective but not a completely harmless add-on therapy, even in severely diseased patients, and should be closely monitored.
Computed tomography-quantified emphysema distribution is associated with lung function decline
Authors: Mohamed Hoesein Firdaus A.A. , van Rikxoort Eva , van Ginneken Bram , de Jong Pim A. , Prokop Mathias , Lammers Jan-Willem J. , Zanen Pieter 
Published: February 2012

Emphysema distribution is associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is, however, unknown whether computed tomography (CT)-quantified emphysema distribution (upper/lower lobe) is associated with lung function decline in heavy (former) smokers.587 male participants underwent lung CT and pulmonary function testing at baseline and after a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 2.9 (2.8–3.0) yrs. The lungs were automatically segmented based on anatomically defined lung lobes. Severity of emphysema was automatically quantified per anatomical lung lobe and was expressed as the 15th percentile (Hounsfield unit point below which 15% of the low-attenuation voxels are distributed (Perc15)). The CT-quantified emphysema distribution was based on principal component analysis. Linear mixed models were used to assess the association of emphysema distribution with forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1and FVC decline.Mean±sdage was 60.2±5.4 yrs, mean baseline FEV1/FVC was 71.6±9.0% and overall mean Perc15 was -908.5±20.9 HU. Participants with upper lobe-predominant CT-quantified emphysema had a lower FEV1/FVC, FEV1and FVC after follow-up compared with participants with lower lobe-predominant CT-quantified emphysema (p=0.001), independent of the total extent of CT-quantified emphysema.Heavy (former) smokers with upper lobe-predominant CT-quantified emphysema have a more rapid decrease in lung function than those with lower lobe-predominant CT-quantified emphysema.