bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retinal Toxicity of Medical Devices Used during Vitreoretinal Surgery: A Critical Overview
Authors: Januschowski Kai , Irigoyen Cristina , Pastor J. Carlos , Srivastava Girish K. , Romano Mario R. , Heimann Heinrich , Stalmans Peter , Van Keer Karel , Boden Karl , Szurman Peter , Spitzer Martin S.
Published: July 2018

Retinal toxicity/biocompatibility of medical devices in direct contact with the retina is an important subject for clinicians and scientists. As these effects are not very frequent, there is also a relative lack of information for many clinicians. The past has taught us multiple times that there is a significant safety problem associated with severe loss of vision in affected patients. In this review, we want to classify medical products that are used in the back of the eye, describe recent examples of toxicity, critically reflect on the regulations that exist and suggest improvements that can be done to ensure patient safety without hindering innovation. Methods: Critical review of the recent papers and personal experience of the authors in this issue. Medical devices used in the back of the eye and recent examples of toxicity are described, regulations that exist are critically reflected and improvements suggested that can ensure patient safety without hindering innovation. Results: There is clear evidence of toxicity after intraocular surgery in any category. Some cytotoxic indirect methods have failed in detecting this toxicity. Some ISO rules do not seem appropriate. Postmarketing safety is missing. There is little data on this issue. Conclusions: The absence of a clear regulation of the production, purification and evaluation of the toxic effects of the medical devices supposes the possibility that products are not sufficiently safe to obtain the CE mark.
Assoziation zwischen Psoriasis und Parodontitis bei der dermatologischen Untersuchung nicht vergessen
Authors: Mahler Vera
Published: July 2018

Periodontitis and psoriasis are suggested to be co-occurring, chronic inflammatory conditions with overlapping characteristics. However, respective evidence is rare and data on risk factors of periodontitis in psoriasis patients are minimal. The aim of this study was to expand the evidence of psoriasis-associated periodontitis and establish a potential risk profile for periodontitis. In total, data from 209 exacerbated psoriasis patients were retrospectively analyzed on recordings of periodontitis and compared with those of 91 patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Analysis showed a significantly increased prevalence of periodontitis in psoriasis compared to CSU patients with an odds ratio of 3.76 (95% CI = 1.60-10.27, p = 0.001). Within the psoriatic subtypes, the presence of the inverse type (affecting intertriginous body areas) was strongly linked to periodontitis with an odds ratio of 5.11 (95% CI = 1.36-20.38, p = 0.006). These results are enlarging the evidence for psoriasis-associated periodontitis and identify a link between the inverse type of psoriasis and periodontitis.
Mycosis fungoides: Follikulotrope Form kein prognostisch ungünstiger Faktor
Authors: Schilling Bastian
Published: July 2018

Background: Folliculotropic mycosis fungoides (FMF) is a distinct subtype of mycosis fungoides (MF) with unique clinicopathological features. The medical literature suggests that FMF has a more aggressive course and worse survival than classic MF. Previous studies do not use standardized treatment, and no studies have reported an association between treatment response and overall survival (OS). Objective: To compare OS for MF, FMF, and Sézary syndrome (SS) patients. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively from 218 patients (171 MF, 15 SS, 32 FMF) treated in a single academic center between 1970 and 2016. Results: Negative predictors of OS were age (OR = 1.07), male sex (OR = 1.63), and stage IIB, III, and IV (OR = 4.10, 5.42, and 7.54, respectively, vs. stage IA). Lack of initial PUVA response was strongly associated with negative OS (OR = 3.08). Kaplan-Meier analysis of age-, sex-, and stage-matched MF and FMF patients found similar OS between the 2 groups. The 5-year OS was 91% for FMF and 74% for MF. Meta-analysis of current data and 2 published studies where survival of FMF patients was compared to MF did not reveal statistically significant differences between these 2 diseases. Conclusions: When patients were matched for age, sex, and disease stage, folliculotropism did not affect OS in MF.
Cupping Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Synthesis of Evidence
Authors: Wang Yu-Ling , An Chun-Mei , Song Shan , Lei Feng-Ling , Wang Yin
Published: July 2018

Background: This systematic review was aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of cupping therapy for treating patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Methods: The following databases were searched from their inception until June 2017: the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, EMBASE, and 4 Chinese databases (Wan Fang Data, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), VeiPu, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI)). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of cupping therapy on KOA were included in this systematic review. A quantitative synthesis of the RCTs was conducted using RevMan 5.3 software. Study selection and data extraction and validation were performed independently by 2 reviewers. Cochrane criteria for risk of bias were used to assess the methodological quality of the trials. Results: A total of 5 studies met our inclusion criteria. We analyzed the data from these 5 RCTs involving 535 participants. All included studies were judged to be at high risk for bias. Dry cupping therapy plus Western medicine therapy was more effective than Western therapy alone in reducing the pain scores (mean difference (MD) = -1.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) -2.40 to -1.18; p < 0.01). In addition, the study participants in the dry cupping therapy plus Western medicine therapy group showed significantly greater improvements in the pain (MD = -0.73, 95% CI -1.61 to -0.41; p < 0.01), stiffness (MD = -0.94, 95% CI -1.30 to -0.58; p < 0.01), and physical function (MD = -10.07, 95% CI -13.45 to -6.69; p < 0.01) domains of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) compared to participants in the Western medicine therapy group. Moreover, when compared with Western medicine therapy alone, a meta-analysis of 4 RCTs suggested statistically significant favorable effects of wet cupping therapy plus Western medicine on the Lequesne Algofunctional Index (LAI) (MD = -3.44, 95% CI -4.21 to -2.68; p < 0.01). Conclusion: There is weak evidence to support the hypothesis that cupping therapy has beneficial effects on reducing the pain intensity and improving the physical function in patients with KOA.
Late Administration of Trastuzumab Emtansine Might Lead to Loss of Chance for Better Outcome in Patients with HER2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Manso Luis , Sanchez-Muñoz Alfonso , Calvo Isabel , Izarzugaza Yann , Plata Jessica , Rodriguez Cesar
Published: July 2018

The optimal sequence of anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) therapies in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is still undetermined. Physicians must therefore make decisions based on clinical trials and their own experience for the best treatment sequence in these patients. The objective of this review is to summarize the efficacy and safety data for trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) in patients with MBC. Additionally, the concept of ‘loss of chance for a better outcome' is investigated. It applies to patients who are not receiving the best possible treatment for their disease. Physicians should strive to offer the best possible care, although getting optimal results in each individual patient is not guaranteed. Lastly, the number of patients with MBC lost per treatment line is evaluated. We conclude that both concepts reinforce the importance of giving the most active treatments as soon as possible in the course of disease to secure the longest possible survival for HER2-positive MBC patients.
The Warwick Experience of the Oncotype DX® Breast Recurrence Score® Assay as a Predictor of Chemotherapy Administration
Authors: Khan Mashuk Alam , Henderson Laura , Clarke Dayalan , Harries Simon , Jones Lucie
Published: July 2018

Introduction: Oncotype DX® analyses the expression of 21 genes within tumour tissue to determine a Recurrence Score® (RS). RS is a marker of risk for distant recurrence in oestrogen receptor-positive early breast cancer, allowing patient-specific benefit of chemotherapy to be evaluated. Our aim was to determine whether the introduction of Oncotype DX led to a net reduction in chemotherapy use. Methods: Consecutive patients that underwent Oncotype DX at Warwick Hospital were reviewed. Patients were anonymised and re-discussed at a multidisciplinary team meeting (MDM; without RS), and treatment recommendations were recorded. This was compared to the original MDM outcome (recommendations made with RS). Differences were analysed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: 67 patients were identified. Proportions of high, intermediate and low risk were 28, 33 and 39% (n = 19/22/26), respectively. Without RS, 56 (84%) patients were recommended for chemotherapy and 3 were not. The remaining 8 patients were deemed borderline for requiring chemotherapy and referred for discussion with an oncologist. With availability of RS, 34 (50%) patients were recommended for chemotherapy, and 24 (43%) patients were spared chemotherapy (p < 0.0005). The net reduction in chemotherapy was 33%. Conclusion: There has been a significant reduction in chemotherapy usage in patients at Warwick since the introduction of Oncotype DX.
Right Ventricular Index for Risk Stratification of Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Sinning Christoph , Harbaum Lars , Schrage Benedikt , Rübsamen Nicole , Magnussen Christina , Waschki Benjamin , Kleemann Wilko H. , Baaske Kaaja M. , Kögler Maria , Ojeda Francisco , Fischer Christine , Benjamin Nicola , Westermann Dirk , Zengin Elvin , Schäfer Ulrich , Egenlauf Benjamin , Klose Hans F. , Blankenberg Stefan , Grünig Ekkehard
Published: July 2018

Background: Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is a major prognostic predictor in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the prognostic impact of a newly developed index merging haemodynamic parameters into 1 variable. Methods: We retrospectively assessed 2 cohorts of 248 patients (164 from Hamburg and 84 from Heidelberg) with invasively diagnosed PAH. During a median follow-up time of 3.6 years (3.1 and 4.0 years for Hamburg and Heidelberg, respectively), the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality and lung transplantation occurred in 57 patients (53 and 4 patients for Hamburg and Heidelberg, respectively). The RV index was developed in the Hamburg cohort and validated in the Heidelberg cohort: (right atrial pressure × pulmonary vascular resistance)/mixed venous oxygen saturation. Results: Patients with a high RV index had a higher incidence of the combined endpoint in Kaplan-Meier analyses in the Hamburg and Heidelberg cohort (p = 0.017 and p = 0.034, respectively). The calculated RV index cut-off value was 91 and identified patients with a worse outcome in the Hamburg cohort and showed a trend in the Heidelberg cohort (p < 0.001 and p = 0.089, respectively). The RV index in Cox regression hazard models was an independent predictor of outcomes after adjustment for sex and age in both cohorts (Hamburg: hazard ratio [HR] 1.26 [95% CI 1.08, 1.47], p = 0.0027; Heidelberg: HR 2.27 [95% CI 1.46, 3.51], p < 0.001). A nomogram based on these results allowed risk stratification. Conclusion: Merging 3 haemodynamic variables into 1 variable, the RV index increased the prognostic power up to an independent risk factor. The RV index is easy to calculate and allows the construction of a nomogram for an individualized risk assessment.
Vitamin D als therapeutische Option bei Psoriasis und atopischer Dermatitis?
Authors: Philipp Sandra
Published: July 2018

Background: Vitamin D is a secosteroid, which was initially known for its skeletal role; however, in recent years, its functions in different organs have been increasingly recognized. In this review, we will provide an overview of vitamin D functions in the skin physiology with specific focus on its role in certain inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed and Google Scholar databases using keywords like “vitamin D,” “skin,” “atopic dermatitis,” and “psoriasis.” Only articles published in English and related to the study topic were included in this review. Results: Vitamin D is integrally connected to the skin for its synthesis, metabolism, and activity. It regulates many physiological processes in the skin ranging from cellular proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis to barrier maintenance and immune functions. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with the risk of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, and several clinical/observational studies have suggested the beneficial effect of vitamin D in the therapy of these 2 inflammatory skin disorders. Conclusions: Vitamin D exerts a pleiotropic effect in the skin and could be an important therapeutic option for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.
Parthenolide Influences Herpes simplex virus 1 Replication in vitro
Authors: Benassi-Zanqueta Érica , Marques Caroline Fernandes , Nocchi Samara Requena , Dias Filho Benedito Prado , Nakamura Celso Vataru , Ueda-Nakamura Tania
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: Parthenolide is a sesquiterpene lactone that is present in plants of the Tanacetum genus, for which many biological effects have already been reported, including antiherpetic activity. Although the effectiveness of parthenolide against Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) has already been demonstrated, such findings are still controversial. The objective of this study was to investigate the ways in which parthenolide exerts anti-HSV-1 activity. Methods: The cytotoxicity and antiviral activity of parthenolide were determined by the MTT method and plaque reduction assay, respectively. The expression of cell and viral proteins during the treatment of infected cells was investigated by Western blot. Results: Both strains of HSV-1 were sensitive to parthenolide, and parthenolide was active only after penetration of the virus into the host cell. The expression of p65 protein decreased, the expression of caspases 8 and 9 increased, and the expression of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 protein was altered in infected cells after parthenolide treatment, resulting in lower cell survival. The low expression of viral proteins gB, gD, and ICP0 confirmed the reduction of HSV-1 particle production. Conclusion: Parthenolide exerts anti-HSV-1 activity by impairing cell viability, which consequently interferes with the efficient infection and production of new viral particles.
Chronic Sleep Restriction Impairs the Antitumor Immune Response in Mice
Authors: De Lorenzo Beatriz Helena Pizarro , Novaes e Brito Ronni Rômulo , Paslar Leal Thatiane , Piqueira Garcia Nycole , Martins dos Santos Rafaela Miranda , Alvares-Saraiva Anuska Marcelino , Perez Hurtado Elizabeth Cristina , Braga dos Reis Tânia Carolina , Duarte Palma Beatriz
Published: July 2018

Objectives: Sleep regulates immune function reciprocally and can affect the parameters that are directly involved in the immune response. Sleep deprivation is considered to be a stress-causing factor and is associated with impaired immune activity. It causes increased glucocorticoid concentrations by activating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis; this can lead to a series of disorders that are associated with the prolonged or increased secretion of these hormones. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of sleep restriction (SR) on the development of pulmonary experimental metastasis and the modulation of the tumor immune response. Methods: The SR protocol was accomplished by depriving C57BL/6 male mice of sleep for 18 h/day for 2, 7, 14, and 21 days. The modified multiple-platforms method was used for SR. Results: The results showed that cytotoxic cells (i.e., natural killer [NK] and CD8+ T cells) were reduced in number and regulatory T cells were predominant in the tumor microenvironment. Sleep-restricted mice also exhibited a reduced number of dendritic cells in their lymph nodes, which may have contributed to the ineffective activation of tumor-specific T cells. Peripheral CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were also reduced in the sleep-restricted mice, thus indicating an immunosuppressive status. Conclusions: Sleep dep­rivation induces failure in the activity of cells that are im­portant to the tumor immune response, both in the tumor microenvironment and on the periphery. This leads to the early onset and increased growth rate of lung metastasis.
Curious Residents of the Thyroid Gland: Two Case Reports of Colorectal Carcinoma Metastasis by Fine-Needle Aspiration Diagnosis
Authors: Melis Céline , Ballaux Florence , Bourgain Claire
Published: July 2018

Background: The most frequent metastases to the thyroid originate in the kidney, lung or breast. Colorectal adenocarcinoma represents less than 4% of metastases to the thyroid gland. Solitary metastases of colorectal cancer with no other manifestation of disseminated cancer disease are exceedingly rare. Within the Bethesda Classification for Reporting ­Thyroid Cytopathology, metastases are included in Diagnostic Categories “Suspicious for Malignancy” and “Malignant.” Cases: We present 2 cases of colorectal adenocarcinoma metastatic to the thyroid gland, diagnosed by fine-needle aspiration (FNA). One metastasis occurred in normal thyroid parenchyma; the other was a tumour-to-tumour metastasis into a follicular carcinoma of the thyroid. The latter is the first published tumour-to-tumour metastasis of a colorectal carcinoma in the thyroid from which both components were diagnosed by FNA. Conclusion: Diagnosing a metastasis to the thyroid is challenging. On FNA, a dual cell population should raise suspicion. Immunocytochemical and molecular analysis may be helpful. Clinical information is essential in guiding specific ancillary technique panels in scant cellular material.
Sorafenib for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Real-Life Experience
Authors: Longo Larisse , de Freitas Laura Bainy Rodrigues , Santos Deivid , Grivicich Ivana , Álvares-da-Silva Mário Reis
Published: July 2018

Introduction: Sorafenib (SOR) has proved to be effective in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), since overall survival was higher in phase III clinical trials; however, disease progression can occur. Objectives: The study aimed to describe real-life experience in advanced HCC treatment with SOR at a university hospital in Brazil and to estimate the number of patients with indication of second-line therapy. Methods: This is a retrospective study that included cases of HCC with prescription of SOR based on real-life practice between 2011 and 2016. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected. Results: From 572 patients with HCC, SOR was prescribed in 103 cases. From them, 62.1% were classified as Child-Pugh (CP)-A, 54.4% as Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC)-C, and 74 (71.8%) started treatment. Overall survival was 25.5 (95% CI 17.0–34.1) months and 1-year survival was greater in patients who received SOR than in non-treated (88.7 vs. 44.4%, p < 0.001). There was no difference in survival between BCLC-B and C (p = 0.405), as well as CP-A and B (p = 0.919). In 21.6% of the patients, a second-line therapy with regorafenib was indicated. Conclusion: In this real-life study, SOR significantly increased the survival rate by 1 year in patients with advanced HCC regardless of BCLC staging and CP score. Second-line therapy would be indicated in 21.6% of cases.
Clinical and Cytogenetic Study of Egyptian Patients with Sex Chromosome Disorders of Sex Development
Authors: Mazen Inas M. , Mekkawy Mona K. , Ibrahim Hanan M. , Kamel Alaa K. , Hamza Rasha T. , Elaidy Aya A.
Published: July 2018

Disorders of sex development (DSD) are conditions with an abnormal development of chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex. Sex chromosome DSD involve conditions associated with either numerical or structural abnormalities of the sex chromosomes. This study included patients comprising a wide spectrum of presenting features suggestive of DSD and aimed at studying the frequency of sex chromosome abnormalities among 108 Egyptian DSD patients who presented to the Clinical Genetics and Endocrinology Clinics, National Research Centre (NRC) over the 2-year period of 2013 and 2014. The age of the studied patients ranged from 2 months to 39 years. The patients exhibited various presentations, including ambiguous genitalia, undescended testis, hypogonadism, short stature with Turner manifestations, primary or secondary amenorrhea, primary infertility, edema of the dorsum of the hands and feet, and dysmorphic features. The patients were subjected to detailed clinical examination, pubertal staging, and cytogenetic analysis. Our study reported a wide karyotypic diversity and a high frequency of sex chromosome DSD, reaching 44.44% (48/108). In conclusion, we showed a high incidence of sex chromosome DSD among Egyptian DSD patients with wide karyotype/phenotype diversity. The most frequent sex chromosome DSD detected among patients of the present study was Turner syndrome and variants (52.08%; 25/48) followed by Klinefelter syndrome and variants (43.75%; 21/48). Further long term studies are necessary for accurate detection of frequencies of different types of sex chromosomal anomalies and associated phenotypes.
Mouse Models of Syndromic Craniosynostosis
Authors: Lee Kevin K.L. , Stanier Philip , Pauws Erwin
Published: July 2018

Craniosynostosis is a common craniofacial birth defect. This review focusses on the advances that have been achieved through studying the pathogenesis of craniosynostosis using mouse models. Classic methods of gene targeting which generate individual gene knockout models have successfully identified numerous genes required for normal development of the skull bones and sutures. However, the study of syndromic craniosynostosis has largely benefited from the production of knockin models that precisely mimic human mutations. These have allowed the detailed investigation of downstream events at the cellular and molecular level following otherwise unpredictable gain-of-function effects. This has greatly enhanced our understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease and has the potential to translate into improvement of the clinical management of this condition in the future.
Placental Proinflammatory State and Maternal Endothelial Dysfunction in Preeclampsia
Authors: Valencia-Ortega Jorge , Zárate Arturo , Saucedo Renata , Hernández-Valencia Marcelino , Cruz José G. , Puello Edgardo
Published: July 2018

Objective: To evaluate the placental and decidual gene expression and maternal and umbilical serum concentrations of tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-8, IL-10, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), along with the proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokine ratios in women with preeclampsia (PE) vs. women with normal pregnancy (NP), and to analyze PE classified as early- (EO) and late-onset (LO). Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed with 50 women with PE (EO n = 30, LO n = 20) and 50 women with NP. Tissue gene expression levels were measured by real-time RT-PCR. Cytokines and adhesion molecules serum concentrations were measured by immunoassays. Results: In PE, placental expression of IL-10 and IL-1RA was lower, while placental IL-8/IL-1RA ratio and maternal concentrations of VCAM-1 were higher vs. NP. In EO, placental expression of IL-10 was lower, while placental IL-8/IL-10 and IL-8/IL-1RA ratios were higher than LO and NP. Maternal concentrations of IL-6 were higher in LO than EO and NP. Throughout PE, maternal VCAM-1 concentrations were higher vs. NP. No significant differences were observed in the decidual expression and umbilical concentrations of the markers between the groups. Conclusion: PE associates with a proinflammatory placental state; however, EO associates with a proinflammatory placental state, while LO associates with systemic maternal inflammation. Both subtypes associated with maternal endothelial dysfunction.
CircRNA8924 Promotes Cervical Cancer Cell Proliferation, Migration and Invasion by Competitively Binding to MiR-518d-5p /519-5p Family and Modulating the Expression of CBX8
Authors: Liu Jiamei , Wang Danbo , Long Zaiqiu , Liu Jing , Li Weishan
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a significant role in the development and progression of various human cancers. However, the expression and function of circRNAs in cervical cancer (CC) have rarely been explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the biological function of circRNA8924 in CC and elucidate the possible molecular mechanism involved. Methods: Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to determine mRNA expression of circRNA8924, miR-518d-5p/519-5p and CBX8 in CC tissues and cells. CBX8 protein expression was measured by Western blotting. The CCK-8 assay was used to evaluate cell proliferation, and the transwell assay to determine cell migration and invasion. The luciferase reporter assay was used to determine the direct regulation of miR-518d-5p/519-5p and circRNA8924 or CBX8 Results: The study demonstrated that the expression level of circRNA8924 in CC was significantly higher than that in the adjacent normal tissues (P < 0.001), and that it was also associated with tumor size, FIGO staging and myometrial invasion. The knockdown of circRNA8924 significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration and invasion of CC cells SiHa and HeLa. The expression level of miR-518d-5p/519-5p was negatively correlated with circRNA8924, and circRNA8924 regulated CBX8 by competitively binding to miR-518d-5p/519-5p. Conclusions: CircRNA8924 is highly expressed in CC tissue and can be considered a competitive endogenous RNA of the miR-518d-5p/519-5p family to promote the malignant biological behavior of CC cells. It is suggested that it may serve as a new biomarker for CC diagnosis and disease progression and provide potential targets for targeted therapy.
Effect of the LncRNA GAS5-MiR-23a-ATG3 Axis in Regulating Autophagy in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Gu Juan , Wang Yueping , Wang Xuedong , Zhou Daoping , Wang Xinguo , Zhou Ming , He Zhimin
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: An increasing body of evidence shows that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in many different cancers. In this study, we aimed to investigate the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA)-dependent mechanism by which the lncRNA GAS5 contributes to the development of breast cancer. Methods: A total of 68 breast cancer patients were enrolled, and breast cancer and adjacent normal tissues were collected. The human breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-453, BT549, SK-BR-3 and MCF-7 and human breast cell line MCF10A were utilized in this study. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting were performed to detect expression of relative factors. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) was used to evaluate the relationship between GAS5 and miR-23a, and a dual luciferase reporter gene assay was employed to assess the relationship between ATG3 and miR-23a. A subcutaneous xenograft nude mouse model was generated to examine the role of GAS5 and its regulatory pathway in autophagy. Results: GAS5 levels were frequently decreased in breast cancer tissues and cell lines, and its relatively low expression was closely related to a larger tumour size, advanced tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) stage and estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancer tissues. More importantly, we found that GAS5 promoted autophagy, with enhanced autophagosome formation after GAS5 overexpression. GAS5 was found to act as a microRNA sponge in a pathway that included miR-23a and its target gene ATG3. The GAS5-miR-23a-ATG3 axis significantly regulated autophagy in vivo and in vitro. Conclusions: In summary, we report that the GAS5-miR-23a-ATG3 axis can be regarded as a key regulator of autophagy pathways in breast cancer; it may constitute a promising biomarker and therapeutic target in the future.
Prefrontal Modulation of Visual Processing and Sustained Attention in Aging, a tDCS–EEG Coregistration Approach
Authors: Brosnan Méadhbh B. , Arvaneh Mahnaz , Harty Siobhán , Maguire Tara , O'Connell Redmond , Robertson Ian H. , Dockree Paul M.
Published: July 2018

The ability to sustain attention is integral to healthy cognition in aging. The right PFC (rPFC) is critical for maintaining high levels of attentional focus. Whether plasticity of this region can be harnessed to support sustained attention in older adults is unknown. We used transcranial direct current stimulation to increase cortical excitability of the rPFC, while monitoring behavioral and electrophysiological markers of sustained attention in older adults with suboptimal sustained attention capacity. During rPFC transcranial direct current stimulation, fewer lapses of attention occurred and electroencephalography signals of frontal engagement and early visual attention were enhanced. To further verify these results, we repeated the experiment in an independent cohort of cognitively typical older adults using a different sustained attention paradigm. Again, prefrontal stimulation was associated with fewer attentional lapses. These experiments suggest the rPFC can be manipulated in later years to increase top–down modulation over early sensory processing and improve sustained attention performance. This holds valuable information for the development of neurorehabilitation protocols to ameliorate age-related deficits in this capacity.
Orobanche javakhetica (Orobanchaceae): a new species from the Caucasus (Armenia)
Authors: PIWOWARCZYK RENATA , SÁNCHEZ PEDRAJA ÓSCAR , MORENO MORAL GONZALO , DENYSENKO-BENNETT MAGDALENA , GÓRALSKI GRZEGORZ , KWOLEK DAGMARA
Published: July 2018

Orobanche javakhetica (Orobanchaceae) is described as a new, probably endemic, species from the Lesser Caucasus in Armenia. It grows on a subalpine meadow, where it parasitises Lomelosia caucasica (Dipsacaceae). The newly-described species is very characteristic and different from other known Orobanche, however some morphological similarity may exist with species from the Orobanche subsect. Curvatae, particularly with species of the Orobanche series Krylowianae. A detailed description, illustrations, a comparison with the most similar species with identification key, and phylogenetic analysis are provided.
Myxomycetes associated with canopy organic matter in temperate rainforests of southern New Zealand
Authors: STEPHENSON STEVEN L. , KAHLERT BRYCE
Published: July 2018

The dead plant material (canopy organic matter) associated with the mats of vascular plants and bryophytes found on tree branches in temperate rainforests along the southwestern coast of New Zealand was investigated for the presence of myxomycetes (plasmodial slime molds or myxogastrids). Samples of both the superficial litter layer (canopy litter) on the surface of the mat and the humus-like layer (canopy soil) beneath the mat were collected and used to prepare a series of moist chamber cultures. Canopy soil yielded more positive cultures (57%) but only three species of myxomycetes, whereas eight species were recovered from canopy litter (40% positive cultures). The higher percentage of positive cultures for canopy soil was the result of the appearance of plasmodia that could not be induced to form fruiting bodies. In contrast, fruiting bodies represented 67% of the positive cultures recorded from canopy litter.
Development of the Pediatric Social Risk Instrument Using a Structured Panel Approach
Authors: Cohen-Silver Justine , Adams Sherri , Agrawal Rishi , Birken Catherine , Cohen Eyal , Dougherty Geoffrey , Houtrow Amy , Jegathesan Thivia , Kandasamy Sharmilaa , Muskat Barbara , Pai Nikhil , Maguire Jonathon L.
Published: July 2018

Background. Social determinants of health impact child illness. Currently, no instrument exists to identify social need during hospital admission. Methods. Using the UCLA (University of California Los Angeles)-RAND appropriateness method, consensus was reached for an instrument to identify social need in hospitalized children. A panel of 11 experts reviewed candidate indicators through 3 rounds to reach consensus. The instrument then underwent usability testing. Results. Three hundred and forty-seven indicators from the literature were sorted into 18 social risk themes. After 3 rounds, consensus was reached on 82 indicators. Six additional social risk themes were recommended by the panel, resulting in consensus for 18 additional indicators. Final refinement resulted in an instrument containing 86 indicators representing 11 social risk themes. Usability testing identified that the tool was well received by families. Final feedback was incorporated into a post-usability instrument. Conclusions. Using the UCLA-RAND appropriateness method, a new pediatric social risk instrument was created to identify social need for hospitalized children.
Under Pressure: Examining Social Conformity With Computer and Robot Groups
Authors: Hertz Nicholas , Wiese Eva
Published: July 2018

Objective:

The authors investigate whether nonhuman agents, such as computers or robots, produce a social conformity effect in human operators and examine to what extent potential conformist behavior varies as a function of the human-likeness of the group members and the type of task that has to be performed.

Background:

People conform due to normative and/or informational motivations in human–human interactions, and conformist behavior is modulated by factors related to the individual as well as factors associated with the group, context, and culture. Studies have yet to examine whether nonhuman agents also induce social conformity.

Method:

Participants were assigned to a computer, robot, or human group and completed both a social and analytical task with the respective group.

Results:

Conformity measures (percentage of times participants answered in line with agents on critical trials) subjected to a 3 × 2 mixed ANOVA showed significantly higher conformity rates for the analytical versus the social task as well as a modulation of conformity depending of the perceived agent–task fit.

Conclusion:

Findings indicate that nonhuman agents were able to exert a social conformity effect, which was modulated further by the perceived match between agent and task type. Participants conformed to comparable degrees with agents during the analytical task but conformed significantly more strongly on the social task as the group’s human-likeness increased.

Application:

Results suggest that users may react differently to the influence of nonhuman agent groups with the potential for variability in conformity depending on the domain of the task.
Crush simulation of automotive chopped fiber composite structures by de-homogenization multi-scale computational method
Authors: DorMohammadi S , Repupilli M , Huang D , Abdi F , Song Y , Gandhi U , Lee M
Published: July 2018

A de-homogenization multi-scale computational method is proposed for the virtual performance simulation of chopped fibers composites under crush loadings. The novel approach led to the development of a multi-scale material characterization procedure for composite systems, comprising of: (1) chopped fibers homogenization based on the Eshelby and Mori–Tanaka inclusion theories, (2) orientation tensor stiffness averaging technique, (3) micro- and macro-mechanics damage and failure theories, and (4) crush resistance evaluation, as a part of the durability and damage tolerance analysis. The chopped fibers material model developed in this work is then employed in a finite element analysis, interfaced with a multi-scale progressive failure technique to track damage and fracture evolution. Comparison of the simulation results obtained for two tubes, manufactured by injection and compression molding respectively, shows good agreement with the crush test data within 10% accuracy. The proposed de-homogenization method offers a superior load resistance prediction over commercially available techniques. Furthermore, the implementation of the proposed approach in our in-house software provides traceable damage evolution and visualization of the contributing failure mechanisms, valuable sources for the design and development of new composite structures.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of three dimensional-printed continuous fiber composites
Authors: Oztan Cagri , Karkkainen Ryan , Fittipaldi Mauro , Nygren Garrett , Roberson Luke , Lane Michael , Celik Emrah
Published: July 2018

Additive manufacturing processes have a demonstrated capacity for flexible production of metal and polymer components. More recently, capabilities for three dimensional printing of continuous fiber reinforced composites were developed. As with printed metal and polymer materials, printed composites will exhibit a unique microstructure with morphological features and process artifacts that manifest on multiple length scales. The aim of this research was to investigate the microstructures of various printed continuous fiber composites and determine linkages to consequent mechanical properties such as stiffness and strength. Samples investigated in this study comprised unidirectional carbon fibers in nylon matrix, unidirectional Kevlar fibers in nylon matrix, and Kevlar fibers in nylon matrix aligned at ±45° directions. Tensile properties of the samples were evaluated along with comparison to expected properties. Fiber volume ratios were analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis. Scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy were used to observe and characterize the hierarchical microstructure. Both strength and stiffness were approximately 30–40% weaker than traditionally produced composites, owing to features such as imperfect interfaces between printed layers, microvoids, incomplete fill density, and similar process artefacts. Future work will investigate mitigation of such effects through process modifications and post-processing to produce higher performance printed composites.
Sensitivity and Positive Predictive Value of Death Certificate Data Among Deaths Caused by Legionnaires’ Disease in New York City, 2008-2013
Authors: Tran Olivia C. , Lucero David E. , Balter Sharon , Fitzhenry Robert , Huynh Mary , Varma Jay K. , Vora Neil M.
Published: July 2018

Objectives:

Death certificates are an important source of information for understanding life expectancy and mortality trends; however, misclassification and incompleteness are common. Although deaths caused by Legionnaires’ disease might be identified through routine surveillance, it is unclear whether Legionnaires’ disease is accurately recorded on death certificates. We evaluated the sensitivity and positive predictive value of death certificates for identifying deaths from confirmed or suspected Legionnaires’ disease among adults in New York City.

Methods:

We deterministically matched death certificate data from January 1, 2008, through December 31, 2013, on New York City residents aged ≥18 years to surveillance data on confirmed and suspected cases of Legionnaires’ disease from January 1, 2008, through October 31, 2013. We estimated sensitivity and positive predictive value by using surveillance data as the reference standard.

Results:

Of 294 755 deaths, 27 (<0.01%) had an underlying cause of death of Legionnaires’ disease and 33 (0.01%) had any mention of Legionnaires’ disease on the death certificate. Of 1211 confirmed or suspected cases of Legionnaires’ disease, 267 (22.0%) matched to a record in the death certificate data set. The sensitivity of death certificates that listed Legionnaires’ disease as the underlying cause of death was 17.3% and of death certificates with any mention of Legionnaires’ disease was 20.9%. The positive predictive value of death certificates that listed Legionnaires’ disease as the underlying cause of death was 70.4% and of death certificates with any mention of Legionnaires’ disease was 69.7%.

Conclusions:

Death certificates had limited ability to identify confirmed or suspected deaths with Legionnaires’ disease. Provider trainings on the diagnosis of Legionnaires’ disease, particularly hospital settings, and proper completion of death certificates might improve the sensitivity of death certificates for people who die of Legionnaires’ disease.
A comfortability and signal quality study of conductive weave electrodes in long-term collection of human electrocardiographs
Authors: Xiao Xueliang , Dong Ke , Li Chenhao , Wu Guanzheng , Zhou Hongtao , Gu Yanjia
Published: July 2018

Long-term electrocardiogram (ECG) recording can reveal some vital cardiovascular disorders and provide warning of human sudden cerebral or vascular diseases in advance. This requires high-quality ECG skin electrodes. Gel (Ag/AgCl) electrodes were reported to have good signal quality in ECG acquisition, but easily caused human skin irritation or allergy. Consequently, textile electrodes have attracted more attention for long-term ECG acquisition. In this paper, eight woven fabrics with diverse yarns and weft densities were fabricated in plain and honeycomb structures. The fabrics were investigated in terms of comfortability, fabric–skin contact impedance and acquired bio-signal quality. Honeycomb weave electrodes were measured with a high comfort level from subjective and objective views, including pleasant tactile comfort, high visual acceptance, good air permeability and good heat transfer. Weave electrodes made of all conductive filaments in high density had low skin contact impedance and high-quality ECG signals. An increase of compression load on weave electrodes resulted in a decrease of contact impedance with a high signal quality. A conductive honeycomb weave with unit repeat of 6*6 warps*wefts presented the highest score of acquired ECG signals of all studied electrodes based on the qualities of the QRS complex, P and T waves, R peak amplitude and variation and signal-to-noise ratio. This study contributes to the future design and fabrication of textile electrodes using honeycomb weave in long-term and real-time collection of human ECGs.
Maternal Communication Strategies That Promote Body Image in Daughters
Authors: Arroyo Analisa , Stillion Southard Belinda A. , Cohen Heather , Caban Sarah
Published: July 2018

This research examined the relationships between perceived maternal communication behaviors and daughters’ body image by borrowing from the tenets of three commonly used body image prevention approaches. The sample consisted of 532 adult women who completed an online survey asking them to recall perceptions of their mothers’ communication behaviors as well as perceptions of their own attitudes, behaviors, and body image. Results from structural equation modeling revealed that (a) in accordance with the Social Cognitive Approach, daughters’ recall of mothers modeling healthy behaviors was associated with higher levels of daughters’ adaptive weight-related behaviors, which was in turn associated with daughters’ body image; (b) in accordance with the Non-Specific Vulnerability-Stressor Model, a close mother-daughter relationship was associated with higher levels of daughters’ social competence, which was in turn associated with daughters’ body image; and (c) in accordance with the Feminist-Empowerment-Relational Model, consciousness-raising discussions between mothers and daughters were associated with higher levels of daughters’ feminist ideology, which was in turn associated with daughters’ body image. In addition, (d) when evaluating the three approaches simultaneously, the Social Cognitive Approach was the only model that significantly predicted daughters’ body image.
Help or Hindrance: Female Probationers’ Navigation of Supervision Requirements Through Personal Support Networks
Authors: Goodson Marva V.
Published: July 2018

This study integrates egocentric social network analysis techniques and qualitative methods to examine (a) the characteristics of female offenders’ semiregular interaction partners and their provision of resources, (b) the relationship and key resources provided by the “most helpful” and “least helpful” network member, and (c) the characteristics of network members that offenders identify as having negative influence on them. In-person interviews were conducted with 41 female felons who provided information on 436 network members. Findings from the network data suggest that, on average, women possess 10 semiregular interaction partners, networks have a heavy concentration of substance users, and less than half of the network members provide any form of helpful supervision-related resources to the participants. Findings from the qualitative component of the research highlight the helpfulness of networks members who provided transportation, financial assistance, and emotional support. Helpful network members tended to be older, employed, more educated, and closer geographically.
Multi-Agent Simulation of a Demand-Responsive Transit System Operated by Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Jäger Benedikt , Brickwedde Carsten , Lienkamp Markus
Published: July 2018

Shared mobility solutions improve traffic efficiency in cities. This paper addresses the design of an urban demand-responsive transit system operated by a fleet of autonomous modules as a public transportation service. We introduce a discrete event-based multi-agent simulation to reflect system dynamics at an operational level. Vehicles, customers, and intelligent stops are modeled as software agents. Each entity has its own decision-making and planning component. Vehicles compete for a limited number of order requests, and decentralized stops manage the matching between a customer and a prospective vehicle. Scheduling and routing events take place highly dynamically. A simulation study evaluates a demand-responsive operation as a replacement for a fixed-route bus service. Results show that a total demand of 2.3 million rides can be fulfilled with a fleet of around 43,000 six-seater modules. In comparison with the current bus system, the total energy consumption and the system’s utilization are improved, while transport times and distances result in values below the bus system’s performance and therefore must be optimized in further research.
Transit Orientation: More Than Just Coverage—A New Method for the Assessment of Transit and Development Co-Location
Authors: Marti Christian M. , Bertolini Luca , Weidmann Ulrich
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a new method for assessing transit and development co-location and applies it to a case study. Co-location is a core element of transit oriented development. It is currently assessed by designating activities within a given distance from transit as “close to transit” and calculating the activity density of these catchment areas or the share of activities within them. However, transit demand decreases with distance, so distribution of activities within transit catchment areas matters in addition to average density. The main contribution of the new method is explicitly assessing density distribution within transit catchment areas. It is based on the notion that density should not increase with distance from transit. Case study results demonstrate the method’s ability to compare station areas based on aggregate indicator values, while also providing maps of disaggregate and spatially explicit co-location performance. This fine-grained analysis allows planners to identify potential future development areas. Results are compared to commonly used indicators for station area intensity and proximity of activities to transit. An important conclusion is that the new method should be used in combination with an intensity indicator.