bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Type 2 Diabetic Serum on Proliferation and Osteogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Deng Xiangqun , Xu Min , Shen Moyu , Cheng Jinluo
Published: June 2018

Diabetic patients have an increased risk of osteoporosis-associated fractures. However, the results of most studies of the effects of diabetes on bone mass in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) have been contradictory. To clarify these conflicting findings, we investigated the effects of diabetic serum on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). We used human sera from subjects with different levels of glycemic control to culture the MSCs and induce osteogenic differentiation. The rate of MSC proliferation differed when MSCs were cultured with sera from diabetic subjects with different levels of hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemic sera promoted MSC proliferation to some extent, but all the diabetic sera inhibited the differentiation of MSCs to osteoblasts. The effects of type 2 diabetic sera on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of MSCs are closely related to glycemic control. Our data demonstrate the importance of stratifying the study population according to glycemic control in clinical research into diabetic osteoporosis.
Wee1 Inhibitor AZD1775 Combined with Cisplatin Potentiates Anticancer Activity against Gastric Cancer by Increasing DNA Damage and Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Chen Dongshao , Lin Xiaoting , Gao Jing , Shen Lin , Li Zhongwu , Dong Bin , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Xiaotian
Published: June 2018

Based on the mechanisms by which Wee1 inhibitor and cisplatin played their own role, a promising strategy of Wee1 inhibitor combined with cisplatin was proposed, which was investigated in gastric cancer (GC). Either Wee1 inhibitor AZD1775 or cisplatin alone had a certain inhibitory effect on in vitro cell proliferation; however, the inhibitory effect was more significant when AZD1775 combined with cisplatin in vitro and in vivo. The underlying mechanisms unveiled that the increased DNA damage indicated by increased γH2AX protein, as well as augmented cell apoptosis indicated by upregulated proapoptotic proteins, was responsible for the significant inhibitory effect of AZD1775 plus cisplatin. Moreover, compared to any single drug, in vitro cell migration and invasion abilities were further attenuated by AZD1775 combined with cisplatin. There were suggestive results that the potentiated cytotoxicity between AZD1775 and cisplatin deserved a deep exploration in the future.
Transportation and Transformation of Arsenic Species at the Intertidal Sediment-Water Interface of Bohai Bay, China
Authors: Yu Xiaoping , Guo Yafei , Wang Qin , Deng Tianlong
Published: June 2018

Arsenic species including arsenite As(III), arsenate As(V), monomethylarsenate (MMA), dimethylarsenate (DMA), and some diagenetic constituents (Fe, Mn, and S2−) in porewaters along with the unstable arsenic species in sediments collected from a typical intertidal zone of Bohai Bay in China were measured. Their vertical distributions were subsequently obtained to reveal the transportation and transformation characteristics of arsenic at the intertidal sediment-water interface (SWI). Results show that the reduction of As(V) by microorganisms occurred in sediments, but the methylation of arsenic by microorganisms was weak in the intertidal zone. The distribution of As(V) was mainly controlled by Mn, whereas As(III) appeared to be more likely controlled by Fe. Arsenic in sediments mainly existed in a stable state, so that only little arsenic could be released from sediments when the environmental conditions at the SWI are changed. As(III) diffused from porewaters to the overlying water while the opposite was true for As(V) at that time when the samples were collected. The total diffusion direction for arsenic across the SWI was from porewaters to the overlying water with a total diffusive flux estimated at 1.23 mg·m−2·a−1.
Framework for E‐Health Systems in IoT‐Based Environments
Authors: Pasha Maruf , Shah Syed Muhammad Waqas
Published: June 2018

Internet of things technology consists of physical objects that are accessible via the Internet, for example, devices, vehicles, and buildings. Internet of things technology is used to connect these physical objects by utilizing the existing infrastructure of networks. A unique identifier is assigned to identify the objects in IoT environments. Internet of things technology is used to make productive decisions on the sensed data after converting it into information. IoT technology is being used in various life disciplines, such as smart health services delivery, smart traffic management, border management, and governmental control. There is no single standard for IoT technology; thus, interoperability between IoT devices that use different protocols and standards is required. This research was carried out to provide and develop a specialized framework for an IoT‐based smart health system by focusing particularly on interoperability problems. Based on different technology standards and communication protocols, the specific requirements of the IoT system were analyzed and served as a basis for the design of the framework. The protocols and standards within the framework utilize existing web technologies, communication protocols, and hardware design. This approach ensures that the specific expectations of the proposed model can be fulfilled with confidence. The experiments showed that interoperability between different IoT devices, standards, and protocols in a smart health system could be achieved using a specialized gateway device and that different web technologies could be used simultaneously in constrained and Internet environments.
Glucose Management during Insulinoma Resection Using Real-Time Subcutaneous Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Sugiyama Yuki , Kiuchi Chiaki , Suzuki Maiko , Maruyama Yuki , Wakabayashi Ryo , Ohno Yasunari , Takahata Shugo , Shibazaki Takumi , Kawamata Mikito
Published: June 2018

Insulinoma is a rare neuroendocrine tumor that causes hypoglycemia due to unregulated insulin secretion. Blood glucose management during insulinoma resection is therefore challenging. We present a case in which real-time subcutaneous continuous glucose monitoring (SCGM) in combination with intermittent blood glucose measurement was used for glycemic control during surgery for insulinoma resection. The SCGM system showed the trends and peak of interstitial glucose in response to glucose loading and the change of interstitial glucose before and after insulinoma resection. These data were helpful for adjusting the glucose infusion; therefore, we think that an SCGM system as a supportive device for glucose monitoring may be useful for glucose management during surgery.
A Novel Load Capacity Model with a Tunable Proportion of Load Redistribution against Cascading Failures
Authors: Zhang Zhen-Hao , Song Yurong , Xia Lingling , Li Yin-Wei , Zhang Liang , Jiang Guo-Ping
Published: June 2018

Defence against cascading failures is of great theoretical and practical significance. A novel load capacity model with a tunable proportion is proposed. We take degree and clustering coefficient into account to redistribute the loads of broken nodes. The redistribution is local, where the loads of broken nodes are allocated to their nearest neighbours. Our model has been applied on artificial networks as well as two real networks. Simulation results show that networks get more vulnerable and sensitive to intentional attacks along with the decrease of average degree. In addition, the critical threshold from collapse to intact states is affected by the tunable parameter. We can adjust the tunable parameter to get the optimal critical threshold and make the systems more robust against cascading failures.
Characterizing the Deacidification Adsorption Model of Organic Acids and Phenolic Compounds of Noni Extract Using Weak Base Ion Exchanger
Authors: Hashim Haslaniza , Zubairi Saiful Irwan , Wan Mustapha Wan Aida , Maskat Mohamad Yusof
Published: June 2018

Although noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) has been used to treat a broad range of diseases, many people avoid consuming the fruits because of its unpleasant odor caused by organic acids. Even though ion exchange resins were able to reduce the odor, it also reduced beneficial antioxidant compounds. Thus, to preserve antioxidants (phenolic compounds) during deacidification, it is important to characterize the interaction of ion exchange resin with both organic acids and phenolic compounds. Adsorption capacities of organic acids and phenolic compounds commonly found in the noni fruit were conducted onto Amberlite IRA 67 resin. The phase contact time to reach equilibrium for octanoic acid and hexanoic acid compounds was 326.86 and 160.72 min, respectively. The values of initial adsorption rate, 1/K1, and adsorption extent, 1/K2, decreased with the increase of initial concentration for all compounds studied. Results for all the compounds studied fitted well to the Langmuir model. The effect of pH in adsorption capacity of the actual system (noni juice) has been applied based on the model system studied.
Maturogenesis of an Immature Dens Evaginatus Nonvital Premolar with an Apically Placed Bioceramic Material (EndoSequence Root Repair Material®): An Unexpected Finding
Authors: Sockalingam S. Nagarajan M. P. , Awang Talip Mohd Safwani Affan Alli , Zakaria Ahmad Shuhud Irfani
Published: June 2018

Dens evaginatus is a dental developmental anomaly that arises due to the folding of the inner dental epithelium that leads to the formation of an additional cusp or tubercle on the occlusal surface of the affected tooth. This accessory tissue projection may carry with it a narrow and constricted pulp horn extension. Occasionally, the tubercle easily fractures, thus leading to microexposure of the pulp horn and eventual pulp necrosis. Often, the pulp necrosis occurs at a time the root development of the affected tooth is incomplete. Apexification with calcium hydroxide and mineral trioxide aggregates has been the mainstay of treatment options before root canal obturation in immature nonvital permanent teeth. Lately, regenerative endodontics (maturogenesis) is becoming one of the preferred treatment modalities to manage such teeth. The current case highlights the possibility of a bioceramic material (EndoSequence Root Repair Material, BC RRM-Fast Set Putty™, Brasseler, USA) which supposed to provide apical root closure (apexification) and could also induce continuation of root growth (maturogenesis).
On Secrecy Outage Probability and Average Secrecy Rate of Large‐Scale Cellular Networks
Authors: Tao Liwei , Yang Weiwei , Cai Yueming , Chen Dechuan
Published: June 2018

We investigate the secrecy performance in large‐scale cellular networks, where both Base Stations (BSs) and eavesdroppers follow independent and different homogeneous Poisson point processes (PPPs). Based on the distances between the BS and user, the intended user selects the nearest BS as serving BS to transmit the confidential information. We first derive closed‐formed expressions of secrecy outage probability and average secrecy rate of a single‐antenna system for both noncooperative and cooperative eavesdroppers scenarios. Then, to further improve the secrecy performance through additional spatial degrees of freedom, the above analyses generalize to the multiantenna scenario, where BSs employ the transmit antenna selection (TAS) scheme. Finally, the results show the small‐scale fading has a considerable effect on the secrecy performance in certain density of eavesdroppers and small path loss exponent environment, and when the interference caused by BS is considered, the secrecy performance will be reduced. Moreover, the gap of secrecy performance between noncooperative and cooperative eavesdroppers cases is nearly invariable as the number of antennas increases.
The Diagnostic Ability of rs-DWI to Detect Subtle Acute Infarction Lesion in the Different Regions of the Brain and the Comparison between Different b-Values
Authors: Singh Tanoj Bahadur , Zhang Liwu , Huo Xiaoting , Liu Guoping , Ni Hongyan , Zhang Shun , Zhu Wenzhen , Yin Jianzhong
Published: June 2018

Objective. To evaluate the diagnostic ability of rs-DWI to detect subtle acute infarction lesion in the different regions of the brain in comparison to routine DWI and the comparison between different b-values. Method. 35 acute brain infarction patients were included. The subtle acute infarction lesions in ss-DWI and rs-DWI sequence were evaluated in 9 anatomical regions of the brain, and the ss-EPI DWI was also acquired with different b-values of 0, 1000, 2000, and 3000s/mm2. The McNemar test was performed for comparing the diagnostic ability of ss-DWI and rs-DWI and different b-values. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) for the whole brain and in each anatomical region were calculated. Result. A total of 406 subtle acute infarction lesions were confirmed. The ss-DWI detected 338 subtle lesions, out of which 318 were true positive and 20 were false positive lesions. The rs-DWI detected 386 subtle lesions, out of which 385 were true positive lesions and 1 was true negative lesion. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value in rs-DWI were better than ss-DWI in all anatomical regions of the brain. In the comparison of different b-values, b2000 was found better among b1000, b2000, and b3000. Conclusion. The rs-DWI offers a useful alternative to routine DWI for detecting the subtle acute infarctions, especially in the regions that are susceptible to distortion as in frontal cortex. In addition, high b-value can also provide benefit by increasing diffusion weighting but further raising can deteriorate image quality as SNR is decreased.
Black Hole Thermodynamics and Generalized Uncertainty Principle with Higher Order Terms in Momentum Uncertainty
Authors: Gangopadhyay Sunandan , Dutta Abhijit
Published: June 2018

We study the modification of thermodynamic properties of Schwarzschild and Reissner-Nordström black hole in the framework of generalized uncertainty principle with correction terms up to fourth order in momentum uncertainty. The mass-temperature relation and the heat capacity for these black holes have been investigated. These have been used to obtain the critical and remnant masses. The entropy expression using this generalized uncertainty principle reveals the area law up to leading order logarithmic corrections and subleading corrections of the form 1/An. The mass output and radiation rate using Stefan-Boltzmann law have been computed which show deviations from the standard case and the case with the simplest form for the generalized uncertainty principle.
BlinkComm: Initialization of IoT Devices Using Visible Light Communication
Authors: Perković Toni , Kovačević Tonko , Čagalj Mario
Published: June 2018

Many applications from the Internet of Things (IoT) domain used in healthcare, smart homes, and cities involve a large number of interconnected wireless devices. To ensure privacy, confidentiality, and integrity of the information, devices should be initialized prior to any communication. In this paper, we present a secure initialization method for constrained IoT devices such as wireless sensors devices and/or actuators. The solution uses visible light communication (VLC) for the initial configuration of the IoT devices. The VLC system consists of a modulated light source such as a smartphone screen and a very simple photodetector. We analyze known coding and modulation techniques used for the VLC and propose BlinkComm, a differential coding technique that achieves threefold increase in transmission speed compared to existing solutions. We showed through experiments with 32 participants that the proposed solution achieves fast completion times and low error rates as well as high user satisfaction levels.
T-Bet Is Dependent on Stat-4 Inhibiting Acute Colitis but Not Stat-1 Using L4 Somatic Antigen of Heligmosomoides polygyrus
Authors: Endharti Agustina Tri , Permana Sofy
Published: June 2018

Helminths may alter the immunoinflammatory reactions of colitis. Proteins derived from H. polygyrus have prospective therapy for colitis. The goal of this study was to interpret the protective mechanisms of L4 somatic antigen (LSA) from Heligmosomoides polygyrus against an inflammatory response to the pathogenesis of DNBS-induced colitis. Colitis was actuated in mice by rectal instillation of DNBS. The mice were randomly divided into five groups containing control, DNBS alone, and three groups, with different doses of LSA (50, 100, and 200 μg/mL), respectively. Mice initiated colitis by rectal administration of DNBS and after that were immunized with LSA for 14 days. Mice treated with LSA inhibited wasting disease compared with DNBS only group. The percentages of cells producing IFN-γ were reduced by LSA treatment. The level of T lymphocytes CD4+IFN-γ+ cells in the LPL was significantly diminished by LSA at both 100 and 200 μg/mL groups (p<0.05). The mRNA expression of T-bet was significantly declined in LSA immunized mice, but not RORγ-T mRNA, whereas GATA-3 expression tended to increase. The activation of STAT-4 significantly reduced LSA-treated mice but not STAT-1. It can be concluded that T-bet is required for optimal production of IFN-γ in colitis.
On the Secrecy Performance of SWIPT Receiver Architectures with Multiple Eavesdroppers
Authors: Jameel Furqan , Wyne Shurjeel , Junaid Nawaz Syed , Ahmed Junaid , Cumanan Kanapathippillai
Published: June 2018

Physical layer security (PLS) has been shown to hold promise as a new paradigm for securing wireless links. In contrast with the conventional cryptographic techniques, PLS methods exploit the random fading in wireless channels to provide link security. As the channel dynamics prevent a constant rate of secure communications between the legitimate terminals, the outage probability of the achievable secrecy rate is used as a measure of the secrecy performance. This work investigates the secrecy outage probability of a simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT) system, which operates in the presence of multiple eavesdroppers that also have the energy harvesting capability. The loss in secrecy performance due to eavesdropper collusion, i.e., information sharing between the eavesdroppers to decode the secret message, is also analyzed. We derive closed‐form expressions for the secrecy outage probability for Nakagami‐m fading on the links and imperfect channel estimation at the receivers. Our analysis considers different combinations of the separated and the integrated SWIPT receiver architectures at the receivers. Numerical results are provided to validate our analysis.
Oncogenic Potential and Clinical Implications of Giant Endometrial Polyps: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: van Staalduinen Brittany , Stahler Andrew , Abied Catherine , Shats Rita , Lakhi Nisha A.
Published: June 2018

Endometrial polyps exceeding 4 centimeters in length are exceedingly rare and are termed “giant polyps.” We describe two patients that presented to our hospital with giant endometrial polyps. Clinical implications and oncologic potential of giant endometrial polyps are discussed. Risk factors of oncologic transformation include advanced age, menopausal status, obesity, diabetes, arterial hypertension, use of tamoxifen, and size greater than 1.0 centimeter. A literature review of all documented cases of giant endometrial polyps is presented and management strategies for counseling and polypectomy are reviewed.
Awareness of Pleiotropic and Cardioprotective Effect of Statins in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Ozkan Bugra , Örsçelik Özcan , Uyar Hakan , Ballı Mehmet , Güçer Eren , Aslan Onur , Temel Gülhan , Çelik Ahmet , Türkay Özcan İsmail
Published: June 2018

Background. Statins are commonly used in the secondary prevention of coronary artery disease. Studies have shown that the rate of statin use is low among patients with coronary artery disease. In this study, we aimed to investigate the reasons for poor patient compliance with statin treatment. Methods. A total of 504 patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease were included in the study. Patients were asked 5 questions to assess their level of knowledge about statin therapy. Results. Among the patients not using statins, 42% stated they did not take the medication because their cholesterol was not high or they did not know they should renew their prescription when they ran out and 35% because they were influenced by news reports in the media suggesting that cholesterol-lowering drugs were harmful. When patients who were aware of the pleiotropic/cardioprotective effects of statins were compared with patients who were not, the more knowledgeable patients had lower noncompliance rate and mean LDL-C level and a higher rate of LDL-C level optimization. Conclusion. We found that patients who are aware of the pleiotropic effects of statins were more compliant with treatment. We believe that spending more time explaining and emphasizing the mechanisms of action, reason for prescribing, and necessary treatment duration of drugs that patients must use will result in greater compliance and improve patient care. In this way, patients may be less influenced by misinformation presented by the media.
A Study on DSLM Transporting the Rare Earth Metal La (III) with a Carrier of PC-88A
Authors: Lu Shibao , Wang Yan , Pei Liang , Li Wei
Published: June 2018

This paper studies transmission behavior of La (III) in dispersed supported liquid membrane (DSLM) of dispersed phase constituted by dispersed supported liquid membrane solution and HCl solution with polyvinylidene fluoride membrane (PVDF) as support and kerosene as membrane solvent, with 2-ethyl hexyl phosphonic acid-single-2-ethyl hexyl ester (PC-88A) and two-(2-ethyl hexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) as mobile carrier. It also investigates the influence of La (III) transmission by the material liquid acidity, initial concentration of La (III), HCI concentration, membrane solution, and HCI solution volume ratio, resolving agent and carrier concentration, as well as concluding that the optimal transmission and separation conditions are dispersed phase of 4.00 mol/L HCl concentration, 30:30 volume ratio of membrane solution, and HCl solution, within 0.160 mol/L controlled carrier concentration and 4.00 pH value of material liquid. Under the optimal conditions, the La (III) initial concentration of material liquid phase is 8.00 × 10–5 mol/L mol/L, 125 min, and 93.9% migration rate. Under the condition of unchanged acidity of resolving phase, HCL, H2SO4, and HNO3 as resolving agent, at 125th min, the migration rates of La (III) are 93.9%, 94.0%, and 87.8%, respectively. HCl solution, H2SO4 solution, and HNO3 solution have a certain effect on the La (III) resolution, of which 4.00 mol/L HCl solution and 2.00 mol/L H2SO4 solution are better. The effect of HNO3 is slightly lower than HCl and H2SO4.
Effect of Phenotypic Screening of Extracts and Fractions of Erythrophleum ivorense Leaf and Stem Bark on Immature and Adult Stages of Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Kyere-Davies Gertrude , Agyare Christian , Boakye Yaw Duah , Suzuki Brian M. , Caffrey Conor R.
Published: June 2018

Schistosomiasis is a disease caused by a flatworm parasite that infects people in tropical and subtropical regions of Sub-Saharan Africa, South America, China, and Southeast Asia. The reliance on just one drug for current treatment emphasizes the need for new chemotherapeutic strategies. The aim of this study was to determine the phenotypic effects of extracts and fractions of leaf and stem bark of Erythrophleum ivorense (family Euphorbiaceae), a tree that grows in tropical parts of Africa, on two developmental stages of Schistosoma mansoni, namely, postinfective larvae (schistosomula or somules) and adults. Methanol leaf and stem bark extracts of E. ivorense were successively fractionated with acetone, petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and methanol. These fractions were then incubated with somules at 0.3125 to 100 μg/mL and with adults at 1.25 μg/mL. The acetone fractions of both the methanol leaf and bark of E. ivorense were most active against the somules whereas the petroleum ether fractions showed least activity. For adult parasites, the acetone fraction of methanol bark extract also elicited phenotypic changes. The data arising provide the first step in the discovery of new treatments for an endemic infectious disease using locally sourced African medicinal plants.
Low‐Profile Flexible UHF RFID Tag Design for Wristbands Applications
Authors: Huang Guan-Long , Sim Chow-Yen-Desmond , Liang Shu-Yao , Liao Wei-Sheng , Yuan Tao
Published: June 2018

In this study, a low‐profile ultrahigh frequency (UHF) radio‐frequency identification (RFID) tag antenna designed for wristbands in healthcare applications is proposed. The radiator is based on the open‐slot cavity technique that is composed of a slotted patch (double‐T slots) loaded onto a flexible open cavity. The proposed slotted design can easily allow the tag’s input impedance to be tuned to the complex impedance of typical UHF RFID chips. The proposed tag antenna has a size of 86 mm × 25 mm × 1.6 mm (0.26λ0 × 0.07λ0 × 0.004λ0) at 915 MHz, and it can yield a maximum reading range of 8 m (stand alone in free‐space condition), 6.6 m (when placed on the human wrist in free‐space condition), and up to 3 m (when placed on the human wrist in a crowded condition).
Risk Factors of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis among Women of Reproductive Age in Xi’an: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zeng Xianling , Zhang Yafei , Zhang Taohong , Xue Yan , Xu Huiqiu , An Ruifang
Published: June 2018

Purpose. To explore risk factors of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) among women of reproductive age in Xi’an district and then to offer reference for clinical prevention and treatment of VVC. Methods. Patients from the outpatient department of gynecology and obstetrics in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University from June 2016 to May 2017 were recruited strictly according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants diagnosed as simple VVC were assigned to the case group, while women who underwent routine gynecological examination and had normal vaginal microflora were assigned to the control group. Then we conducted a questionnaire survey of the two groups and used the logistic regression model to explore the related risk factors of VVC. Results. In the present study, ninety-seven cases were sample VVC patients and eighty-seven cases were healthy women. This cross-sectional study showed that occasionally or never drinking sweet drinks (odds ratio [OR] =0.161, 95% confidence interval [CI] =0.056-0.462, P=0.001), occasionally or never eating sweet foods (OR=0.158, 95%CI=0.054-0.460, P=0.001), and the use of condom (OR=0.265, 95%CI=0.243-0.526, P=0.001) were regarded as protective factors for VVC. In addition, sedentary life style (OR=7.876, 95%CI=1.818-34.109, P=0.006), frequently wearing tights (OR=6.613, 95%CI=1.369-27.751, P=0.018), frequent intravaginal douching (OR=3.493, 95%CI=1.379-8.847, P=0.008), having the first sexual encounter when under 20 years old (OR=2.364, 95%CI=1.181-7.758, P=0.006), the number of sexual partners being over two (OR=3.222, 95%CI=1.042-9.960, P=0.042), history of curettage (OR=3.471, 95%CI=1.317-9.148, P=0.012), history of vaginitis (OR=8.999, 95%CI=2.816-28.760, P<0.001), and not cleaning the vulva before or after sexual encounters (OR=13.684, 95%CI=2.843-65.874, P=0.001) were considered to be risk factors of VVC. Conclusion. In conclusion, risk factors of VVC are various, involving ages, hygienic habits, disease history, and other aspects.
Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage Induced by Vaping
Authors: Agustin Michael , Yamamoto Michele , Cabrera Felix , Eusebio Ricardo
Published: June 2018

There has been a significant increase in electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use since its introduction in 2007. Ironically, there remains very few published literature on the respiratory complications of e-cigarettes. The use of personalized vaporizers or commonly known as “vaping” has started to overtake standard e-cigarette. Its dynamic vaporizer customization makes it challenging to assess long-term health effects. Case reports on the pulmonary complications of e-cigarettes are limited to bronchiectasis, eosinophilic pneumonia, pleural effusion, and suspected hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is bleeding into the alveolar spaces of the lung secondary to disruption of the alveolar-capillary basement membrane. We report a case of young male presenting with subacute respiratory failure. He was later found to have diffuse alveolar hemorrhage syndrome that is likely induced by aggressive vaping. This adds up to the rising concern on the possible serious complications of this innovative technology designed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes.
Prognostic Roles of Inflammatory Markers in Pancreatic Cancer: Comparison between the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio
Authors: Oh Dongwook , Pyo Jung-Soo , Son Byoung Kwan
Published: June 2018

Background/Objectives. This meta-analysis is aimed at investigating the prognostic roles of the inflammatory markers neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients with pancreatic cancer.Methods. The correlations between high inflammatory marker expression levels and prognosis in 7105 patients with pancreatic cancer from 34 eligible studies were investigated. Additionally, subgroup analyses based on study location, tumor stage, treatment, and value cutoffs were performed.Results. High NLR and PLR values were considered to be 2.0–5.0 and 150–200, respectively. Using a random-effects model, the estimated rates of high NLR and PLR were 0.379 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.310–0.454) and 0.490 (95% CI 0.438–0.543), respectively. High NLRs were frequently found in patients with lower tumor stages and in those who underwent surgery. There were significant correlations between high NLR and PLR and poor survival rates (hazard ratio [HR] 1.737, 95% CI 1.502–2.009 and HR 1.143, 95% CI 1.037–1.259, resp.). Interestingly, the NLR and PLR had no prognostic value in patients who underwent chemoradiotherapy.Conclusion. Taken together, our results showed that inflammatory markers are useful for predicting prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer. The NLR is a more suitable parameter for predicting prognosis regardless of the patient’s condition.
Severe Progressive Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Kusunoki Munenori , Umegaki Takeshi , Shoji Tomohiro , Nishimoto Kota , Anada Natsuki , Ando Akiko , Uba Takeo , Oku Kanako , Hakata Saya , Hagihira Satoshi , Kamibayashi Takahiko
Published: June 2018

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) refers to the effusion of blood into the alveoli due to damaged pulmonary microvasculature. The ensuing alveolar collapse can lead to severe hypoxemia with poor prognosis. In these cases, it is crucial to provide respiratory care for hypoxemia in addition to treating the underlying disease. Here, we describe our experience with a case involving a 46-year-old woman with severe DAH-induced hypoxemia accompanying systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Mechanical ventilation was managed using airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) after intubation. Through APRV-based respiratory care and treatment of the underlying disease, hemoptysis was eliminated and oxygenation improved. The patient did not experience significant barotrauma and was successfully weaned from mechanical ventilation after 25 days in the intensive care unit. This case demonstrates that APRV-based control for respiratory management can inhibit the effusion of blood into the alveoli and achieve mechanical hemostasis, as well as mitigate alveolar collapse. APRV may be a useful method for respiratory care in patients with severe DAH-induced hypoxemia.
Hypoxic Tumor-Derived Exosomal miR-301a Mediates M2 Macrophage Polarization via PTEN/PI3Kγ to Promote Pancreatic Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Luo Guangtao , Zhang Kundong , Cao Jun , Huang Chen , Jiang Tao , Liu Bingya , Su Liping , Qiu Zhengjun
Published: June 2018

Exosomes are emerging as important mediators of the cross-talk between tumor cells and the microenvironment. However, the mechanisms by which exosomes modulate tumor development under hypoxia in pancreatic cancer remain largely unknown. Here, we found that hypoxic exosomes derived from pancreatic cancer cells activate macrophages to the M2 phenotype in a HIF1a or HIF2a–dependent manner, which then facilitates the migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition of pancreatic cancer cells. Given that exosomes have been shown to transport miRNAs to alter cellular functions, we discovered that miR-301a-3p was highly expressed in hypoxic pancreatic cancer cells and enriched in hypoxic pancreatic cancer cell–derived exosomes. Circulating exosomal miR-301a-3p levels positively associated with depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, late TNM stage, and poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer. Hypoxic exosomal miR-301a-3p induced the M2 polarization of macrophages via activation of the PTEN/PI3Kγ signaling pathway. Coculturing of pancreatic cancer cells with macrophages in which miR-301a-3p was upregulated or treated with hypoxic exosomes enhanced their metastatic capacity. Collectively, these data indicate that pancreatic cancer cells generate miR-301a-3p–rich exosomes in a hypoxic microenvironment, which then polarize macrophages to promote malignant behaviors of pancreatic cancer cells. Targeting exosomal miR-301a-3p may provide a potential diagnosis and treatment strategy for pancreatic cancer.

Significance: These findings identify an exosomal miRNA critical for microenvironmental cross-talk that may prove to be a potential target for diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Graphical Abstract: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/78/16/4586/F1.large.jpg. Cancer Res; 78(16); 4586–98. ©2018 AACR.
Hexavalent Chromium–Induced Chromosome Instability Drives Permanent and Heritable Numerical and Structural Changes and a DNA Repair–Deficient Phenotype
Authors: Wise Sandra S. , Aboueissa Abou El-Makarim , Martino Julieta , Wise John Pierce
Published: June 2018

A key hypothesis for how hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] causes cancer is that it drives chromosome instability (CIN), which leads to neoplastic transformation. Studies show chronic Cr(VI) can affect DNA repair and induce centrosome amplification, which can lead to structural and numerical CIN. However, no studies have considered whether these outcomes are transient or permanent. In this study, we exposed human lung cells to particulate Cr(VI) for three sequential 24-hour periods, each separated by about a month. After each treatment, cells were seeded at colony-forming density, cloned, expanded, and retreated, creating three generations of clonal cell lines. Each generation of clones was tested for chromium sensitivity, chromosome complement, DNA repair capacity, centrosome amplification, and the ability to grow in soft agar. After the first treatment, Cr(VI)-treated clones exhibited a normal chromosome complement, but some clones showed a repair-deficient phenotype and amplified centrosomes. After the second exposure, more than half of the treated clones acquired an abnormal karyotype including numerical and structural alterations, with many exhibiting deficient DNA double-strand break repair and amplified centrosomes. The third treatment produced new abnormal clones, with previously abnormal clones acquiring additional abnormalities and most clones exhibiting repair deficiency. CIN, repair deficiency, and amplified centrosomes were all permanent and heritable phenotypes of repeated Cr(VI) exposure. These outcomes support the hypothesis that CIN is a key mechanism of Cr(VI)-induced carcinogenesis.

Significance: Chromium, a major public health concern and human lung carcinogen, causes fundamental changes in chromosomes and DNA repair in human lung cells. Cancer Res; 78(15); 4203–14. ©2018 AACR.
MicroRNA-Related Genetic Variants Associated with Survival of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wilkins Owen M. , Titus Alexander J. , Salas Lucas A. , Gui Jiang , Eliot Melissa , Butler Rondi A. , Sturgis Erich M. , Li Guojun , Kelsey Karl T. , Christensen Brock C.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is commonly diagnosed at an advanced stage, and prognosis for such patients is poor. There remains a gap in our understanding of genetic variants related with HNSCC prognosis. miRNA-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (miR-SNPs) are a class of genetic variants with gene-regulatory potential.

Methods:

We used a genome-scale approach and independent patient populations in a two-stage approach to test 40,286 common miR-SNPs for association with HNSCC survival in the discovery population (n = 847), and selected the strongest associations for replication in validation phase cases (n = 1,236). Furthermore, we leveraged miRNA interaction databases and miRNA expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, to provide functional insight for the identified and replicated associations.

Results:

Joint population analyses identified novel miR-SNPs associated with overall survival in oral and laryngeal cancers. rs1816158, located within long noncoding RNA MIR100HG, was associated with overall survival in oral cavity cancer (HR, 1.56; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.21–2.00). In addition, expression of MIR100HG-embedded miRNA, miR-100, was significantly associated with overall survival in an independent cohort of HNSCC cases (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.06–1.49). A SNP in the 3′UTR of SH3BP4 (rs56161233) that overlaps predicted miRNA-binding sites and is predicted to disrupt several miRNA–mRNA interactions was associated with overall survival of laryngeal cancer (HR, 2.57; 95% CI, 1.71–3.86).

Conclusions:

This work reveals novel miR-SNPs associated with HNSCC survival, and utilizes miRNA-mRNA interaction and expression data to provide functional support for these associations.

Impact:

These findings extend our understanding of how genetic variation contributes to HNSCC survival, and may contribute to future prognostic models for improved risk stratification.
PD-L1 Binds to B7-1 Only In Cis on the Same Cell Surface
Authors: Chaudhri Apoorvi , Xiao Yanping , Klee Alyssa N. , Wang Xiaoxu , Zhu Baogong , Freeman Gordon J.
Published: June 2018

Programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1)–mediated immunosuppression regulates peripheral tolerance and is often co-opted by tumors to evade immune attack. PD-L1 binds to PD-1 but also binds to B7-1 (CD80) to regulate T-cell function. The binding interaction of PD-L1 with B7-1 and its functional role need further investigation to understand differences between PD-1 and PD-L1 tumor immunotherapy. We examined the molecular orientation of PD-L1 binding to B7-1 using cell-to-cell binding assays, ELISA, and flow cytometry. As expected, PD-L1–transfected cells bound to PD-1–transfected cells, and B7-1 cells bound to CD28 or CTLA-4–transfected cells; however, PD-L1 cells did not bind to B7-1 cells. By ELISA and flow cytometry with purified proteins, we found PD-L1 and B7-1 had a strong binding interaction only when PD-L1 was flexible. Soluble PD-1 and B7-1 competed for binding to PD-L1. Binding of native PD-L1 and B7-1 in cis on the same cell surface was demonstrated with NanoBiT proximity assays. Thus, PD-L1–B7-1 interaction can occur in cis on the same cell but not in trans between two cells, which suggests a model in which PD-L1 can bend via its 11-amino acid, flexible stalk to bind to B7-1 in cis, in a manner that can competitively block the binding of PD-L1 to PD-1 or of B7-1 to CD28. This binding orientation emphasizes the functional importance of coexpression of PD-L1 and B7-1 on the same cell. We found such coexpression on tumor-infiltrating myeloid cells. Our findings may help better utilize these pathways in cancer immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 6(8); 921–9. ©2018 AACR.
Higher Prevalence of Endometrial Polyps in Infertile Patients with Endometriosis
Authors: Zhang Ya-nan , Zhang You-sheng , Yu Qian , Guo Zi-zhen , Ma Jin-long , Yan Lei
Published: June 2018

Aim: To study whether infertile patients with endometriosis have a higher prevalence of endometrial polyps, and to clarify the characteristics of the pathology of combined polyps. Methods: Infertile patients who had undergone both hysteroscopy and laparoscopy in Reproductive Hospital Affiliated with Shandong University from January 2014 to May 2017 were enrolled. Patients with and without endometriosis, diagnosed by laparoscopy, were staged and included in the study group and control group, respectively, and the prevalence of polyps was compared. The pathological types of endometrial polyps were analyzed. Results: A total of 414 cases were enrolled in the study group and 3,048 cases in the control group; polyps were diagnosed, with endoscopy, in 1,107 patients. Endometrial polyps were detected by hysteroscopy in 47.83% of the endometriosis group and 29.82% of the control group. The prevalence of endometrial polyps was significantly higher in the endometriosis group than in the control group (p < 0.001) but not significantly different between stages of endometriosis (p = 0.580). The pathological diagnosis included 899 endometrial polyps and 208 polypoid hyperplasia; 66.5% of endometrial polyps were combined with simple hyperplasia. Conclusions: The infertile patients with endometriosis had a higher prevalence of endometrial polyps, and those polyps are often combined with simple hyperplasia.
Serum Squamous Cell Carcinoma Antigen in Psoriasis: A Potential Quantitative Biomarker for Disease Severity
Authors: Sun Ziwen , Shi Xiaomin , Wang Yun , Zhao Yi
Published: June 2018

Background: An objective and quantitative method to evaluate psoriasis severity is important for practice and research in the precision care of psoriasis. Objectives: We aimed to explore serum biomarkers quantitatively in association with disease severity and treatment response in psoriasis patients, with serum squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) evaluated in this pilot study. Methods: 15 psoriasis patients were treated with adalimumab. At different visits before and after treatment, quantitative body surface area (qBSA) was obtained from standardized digital body images of the patients, and the psoriasis area severity index (PASI) was also monitored. SCCA were detected by using microparticle enzyme immunoassay. The serum biomarkers were also tested in healthy volunteers as normal controls. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to explore the optimal cutoff point of SCCA to differentiate mild and moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Results: The serum SCCA level in the psoriasis group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in the normal control group. After treatment, the serum SCCA levels were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). The SCCA level was well correlated with PASI and qBSA. In ROC analysis, when taking PASI = 10 or qBSA = 10% as the threshold, an optimal cutoff point of SCCA was found at 2.0 ng/mL with the highest Youden index. Conclusion: Serum SCCA might be a useful quantitative biomarker for psoriasis disease severity.
Enlarging Bump on the Scrotum
Authors: Cervantes Jessica , Rosen Alyx , Cho Jeong Hee
Published: June 2018

Extramammary Paget disease is a rare, slow-growing intraepithelial neoplasm of the skin or its underlying appendages. It more commonly affects the apocrine glands of the axilla, vulva, perianal region, scrotum, and/or penis. It often presents as a well-demarcated, thickened, erythematous, or gray-white scaly plaque with indolent growth that may become ulcerated, crusted, papillomatous, or eczematous over time. Pruritus, pain, and burning sensations are common symptoms; however, they are not appreciated by all patients. Many patients are erroneously treated for eczema for months to years before a proper diagnosis is reached. Patients presenting with chronic genital or perineal dermatitis or skin lesions that have been unresponsive to topical therapy should be biopsied for definitive diagnosis.
Flip-Flop Phenomenon: Swallowing-Induced Arterial Displacement as an Indicator of Carotid Artery Disease
Authors: Kinoshita Naoto , Saito Kozue , Yamaguchi Yoshitaka , Abe Soichiro , Wada Shinichi , Tanaka Tomotaka , Kajimoto Katsufumi , Yamagami Hiroshi , Maruyama Hirofumi , Toyoda Kazunori , Ihara Masafumi , Nagatsuka Kazuyuki
Published: June 2018

Background and purpose: The dynamic displacement of the carotid arteries with interference of the hyoid bone during swallowing, named as “flip-flop” phenomenon (FFP), may be associated with ischemic stroke. However, the extent to which FFP is prevalent in carotid artery disease remains unknown. We aimed to investigate its exact prevalence to explore the relationship between FFP and carotid artery disease. Methods: We examined 202 consecutive patients who were affected by neurological diseases including cerebrovascular diseases. Using carotid ultrasound, we evaluated carotid intima-media thickness, internal carotid artery stenosis (ICS), and FFP during swallowing with neck rotation. Results: FFP was observed in 39 of the 202 patients (19.3%). Patients with FFP showed significantly higher prevalence of ICS than those without FFP (12/39 [30.8] vs. 21/163 [12.9%]; p = 0.007). Among those with ICS (n = 33; 36 vessels), FFP was associated with symptomatic ICS more frequently than with asymptomatic ICS (6/11 [54.5] vs. 5/25 [20.0%]; p = 0.038). Among those with unilateral FFP (n = 37), the prevalence of ipsilateral ICS was higher than that of contralateral ICS (9/37 [24.3] vs. 2/37 [5.4%]; p = 0.035). Conclusions: FFP accompanies the swallowing movement in some neurological patients, and more frequently in patients with ICS. FFP may thus be a novel indicator of stroke.
ДИСЛІЛІДЕМІЯ ТА ЧИННИКИ ЇЇ ПОГЛИБЛЕННЯ ПРИ КОМОРБІДНОСТІ ХРОНІЧНОГО ПАНКРЕАТИТУ І ЦУКРОВОГО ДІАБЕТУ
Authors: Babinets L. S. , Shevchenko N. A. , Sasik G. М. , Zemlyak О. S.
Published: June 2018

Наявність цукрового діабету (ЦД) достовірно ускладнювала клінічний перебіг хронічного панкреатиту (ХП) за бальною системою M-ANNHEIM, який корелював зі змінами копрограми (r=0,67; р<0,001), критеріями ультразвукового дослідження (r=0,54; р<0,01), рівнем глікозильованого гемоглобіну (r=0,66; р<0,001). У хворих з ХП з супутнім ЦД ступінь тяжкості захворювання був більш вираженим, ніж при ХП без інкреторної недостатності: середній ступінь тяжкості (С) переважав у 69,56% пацієнтів 2-ої групи проти 26,32% 1-ої, з’явились випадки вираженого та важкого ступеня тяжкості. Виявлено прямий достовірний кореляційний зв'язок між усіма атерогенними показниками ліпідограми та віком хворих і тривалістю перебігу ХП, що дозволяє вважати вік і тривалість ХП чинниками поглиблення дисліпідемії. У хворих на ХП у поєднанні з ЦД із дисліпідемією встановлено достовірно нижчий показник рівня фекальної α-еластази порівняно із групою ХП: 157,15±7,36 проти 112,86±2,98 відповідно, (p<0,001), що довело поглиблення дисліпідемії при прогресуванні ЗСН ПЗ.