bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breast carcinoma in sclerosing adenosis: a clinicopathological and immunophenotypical analysis on 206 lesions
Authors: Yu Bao-Hua , Tang Shao-Xian , Xu Xiao-Li , Cheng Yu-Fan , Bi Rui , Shui Ruo-Hong , Tu Xiao-Yu , Lu Hong-Fen , Zhou Xiao-Yan , Yang Wen-Tao
Published: February 2018

Aims

To fully elucidate the clinicopathological features of breast carcinoma in sclerosing adenosis (SA-BC).

Methods

Clinical and histological characteristics of 206 SA-BCs from 180 patients were retrospectively evaluated. Immunohistochemical phenotype was examined. The clinicopathological relevance of the topographical pattern of SA-BCs was analysed.

Results

Overall, up to 46 patients (25.6%) had contralateral cancer, either SA associated or not. Of 99 cases who underwent core needle biopsy (CNB), 36 were underestimated as adenosis or atypical ductal hyperplasia at CNB, 5 invasive cases were misinterpreted as in situ carcinomas, whereas 4 ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) cases were overdiagnosed as invasive carcinoma. Microscopically, 163 tumours were in situ, including 136 DCIS, 19 lobular carcinomas in situ (LCIS) and 8 mixed DCIS/LCIS; of these carcinomas in situ (CIS), 37 had microinvasion. The DCIS group exhibited low, intermediate and high grades in 53.7%, 34.6% and 11.8% of cases, respectively, mostly with solid (43.4%) or cribriform (41.9%) pattern. Forty out of 43 invasive cases were invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), mostly DCIS predominant. Immunophenotypically, luminal A phenotype was identified in 55.1%, 63.2% and 45.0% of DCIS, LCIS and IDC cases, respectively. Topographical type A group (carcinoma being entirely confined to SA, n=176) was characterised by smaller size, less invasiveness, lower grade and more frequency of luminal A immunophenotype compared with type B group (≥ 50% but not all of the carcinomatous lesion being located in SA, n=30) (all P<0.05).

Conclusions

CIS, especially non-high-grade DCIS, represents the most common variant of SA-BC, and luminal A is the most predominant immunophenotype. CNB assessment might be challenging in some SA-BCs. The topographical pattern has great clinicopathological relevance. Careful evaluation of the contralateral breast and long-term follow-up for patients with SA-BC is necessary given its high prevalence of bilaterality.
Comparing the characteristics of users of an online service for STI self-sampling with clinic service users: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Barnard Sharmani , Free Caroline , Bakolis Ioannis , Turner Katy M E , Looker Katharine J , Baraitser Paula
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Online services for self-sampling at home could improve access to STI testing; however, little is known about those using this new modality of care. This study describes the characteristics of users of online services and compares them with users of clinic services.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of routinely collected data on STI testing activity from online and clinic sexual health services in Lambeth and Southwark between 1January 2016 and 31March 2016. Activity was included for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis testing for residents of the boroughs aged 16 years and older. Logistic regression models were used to explore potential associations between type of service use with age group, gender, ethnic group, sexual orientation, positivity and Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) quintiles. We used the same methods to explore potential associations between return of complete samples for testing with age group, gender, ethnic group, sexual orientation and IMD quintiles among online users.

Results

6456 STI tests were carried out by residents in the boroughs. Of these, 3582 (55.5%) were performed using clinic services and 2874 (44.5%) using the online service. In multivariate analysis, online users were more likely than clinic users to be aged between 20 and 30 years, female, white British, homosexual or bisexual, test negative for chlamydia or gonorrhoea and live in less deprived areas. Of the individuals that ordered a kit from the online service, 72.5% returned sufficient samples. In multivariate analysis, returners were more likely than non-returners to be aged >20 years and white British.

Conclusion

Nearly half (44.5%) of all basic STI testing was done online, although the characteristics of users of clinic and online services differed and positivity rates for those using the online service for testing were lower. Clinics remain an important point of access for some groups.
Counting crocodiles from the sky: monitoring the critically endangered gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) population with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)
Authors: Thapa Gokarna Jung , Thapa Kanchan , Thapa Ramesh , Jnawali Shant Raj , Wich Serge A. , Poudyal Laxman Prasad , Karki Suraj
Published: February 2018

Technology is rapidly changing the methods used in the field of wildlife monitoring. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) are an example of a new technology that allows biologists to take to the air to monitor wildlife. A fixed-wing UAV was used to monitor the critically endangered gharial population along 46 km of the Babai River in Bardia National Park, Nepal. The UAV was flown at an altitude of 80 m along 12 pre-designed missions and, with a search effort of 2.72 h of flight time, acquired a total of 11 799 images covering an effective surface area of 8.2 km2 of riverbank habitat. The images taken from the UAV could differentiate between gharial and muggers. A total count of 33 gharials and 31 muggers with observed density (per square kilometre) of 4.64 and 4.0 for gharial and mugger, respectively. Comparison of count data between one-time UAV and multiple conventional visual encounter rate surveys’ data showed no significant difference in the mean. Basking season and turbidity were important factors for monitoring crocodiles along the riverbank habitat. Efficacy of monitoring crocodiles by UAV at the given altitude can be replicated in high-priority areas with lower operating cost and acquisition of high-resolution data.
Exact determination of asymptotic CMB temperature-redshift relation
Authors: Hahn Steffen , Hofmann Ralf
Published: February 2018

Based on energy conservation in a Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) Universe, on the Legendre transformation between energy density and pressure, and on nonperturbative asymptotic freedom at high temperatures, we derive the coefficient [Formula: see text] in the high-temperature [Formula: see text] — redshift [Formula: see text] relation, [Formula: see text], of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB). Theoretically, our calculation relies on a deconfining SU(2) rather than a U(1) photon gas. We prove that [Formula: see text], representing a topological invariant. Interestingly, the relative deviation of [Formula: see text] from the critical exponent associated with the correlation length [Formula: see text] of the 3D Ising model, [Formula: see text], is less than [Formula: see text]. We are not in a position to establish a direct theoretical link between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] as suggested by the topological nature of [Formula: see text] and the fact that both theories are members of the same universality class. We do, however, spell out a somewhat speculative, strictly monotonic map from the physical Ising temperature [Formula: see text] to a fictitious SU(2) Yang–Mills temperature [Formula: see text], the latter continuing the asymptotic dependence of the scale factor [Formula: see text] on [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text] down to [Formula: see text], and we identify an exponential map from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] to reproduce critical Ising behavior.
The ergodicity landscape of quantum theories
Authors: Ho Wen Wei , Radičević Đorđe
Published: February 2018

This paper is a physicist’s review of the major conceptual issues concerning the problem of spectral universality in quantum systems. Here, we present a unified, graph-based view of all archetypical models of such universality (billiards, particles in random media, interacting spin or fermion systems). We find phenomenological relations between the onset of ergodicity (Gaussian-random delocalization of eigenstates) and the structure of the appropriate graphs, and we construct a heuristic picture of summing trajectories on graphs that describes why a generic interacting system should be ergodic. We also provide an operator-based discussion of quantum chaos and propose criteria to distinguish bases that can usefully diagnose ergodicity. The result of this analysis is a rough but systematic outline of how ergodicity changes across the space of all theories with a given Hilbert space dimension. As a particular example, we study the SYK model and report on the transition from maximal to partial ergodicity as the disorder strength is decreased.
(Anti-)chiral superfield approach to interacting Abelian 1-form gauge theories: Nilpotent and absolutely anticommuting charges
Authors: Chauhan B. , Kumar S. , Malik R. P.
Published: February 2018

We derive the off-shell nilpotent (fermionic) (anti-)BRST symmetry transformations by exploiting the (anti-)chiral superfield approach (ACSA) to Becchi–Rouet–Stora–Tyutin (BRST) formalism for the interacting Abelian 1-form gauge theories where there is a coupling between the U(1) Abelian 1-form gauge field and Dirac as well as complex scalar fields. We exploit the (anti-)BRST invariant restrictions on the (anti-)chiral superfields to derive the fermionic symmetries of our present D-dimensional Abelian 1-form gauge theories. The novel observation of our present investigation is the derivation of the absolute anticommutativity of the nilpotent (anti-)BRST charges despite the fact that our ordinary D-dimensional theories are generalized onto the (D,[Formula: see text]1)-dimensional (anti-) chiral super-submanifolds (of the general (D,[Formula: see text]2)-dimensional supermanifold) where only the (anti-)chiral super expansions of the (anti-)chiral superfields have been taken into account. We also discuss the nilpotency of the (anti-)BRST charges and (anti-)BRST invariance of the Lagrangian densities of our present theories within the framework of ACSA to BRST formalism.
Architecture-Based Software Testing
Authors: Lee Jihyun , Kang Sungwon , Keum Changsup
Published: February 2018

It has been recognized by many researchers that the notion of test architecture should be utilized for software testing to cope with the task of testing complicated software, as it can support test architecture design and test case generation based on test architecture as well as efficient fault detection and error locating. However, in the current software testing theory and practice, the notion of test architecture and how it can be utilized for software testing are not well understood. To redress this situation, this paper provides foundational concepts and principles of architecture-based software testing to help utilize test architecture for software testing. Case study experiments are conducted to show how the concepts and principles of architecture-based software testing work and the effects that can be obtained by using architecture-based software testing.
Results of the Volar Approach in Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Duncan Scott F. M. , Smith Anthony A. , Renfree Kevin J. , Dunbar Ross M. , Merritt Marianne V.
Published: February 2018

Background: Most hand surgeons use a dorsal approach for proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint implant arthroplasty. However, a volar approach offers the advantage of no disturbance to the extensor mechanism, thus allowing early initiation of active range of motion. We examined our results in patients who underwent PIP joint arthroplasty via a volar approach.

Methods: Using a retrospective chart review, we evaluated the outcomes of patients undergoing PIP joint arthroplasty through a volar approach between 2001 and 2005 by 3 fellowship-trained hand surgeons at our institution. The indication for surgery was PIP joint pain with radiographic evidence of joint destruction. Variables included implant type, diagnosis, affected digit(s), preoperative and postoperative range of motion, and complications. Hand therapy was initiated on postoperative day 3 or 4.

Results: Over the 5 years, 25 PIP joints were replaced in 18 women and 2 men with the volar approach. Replacements consisted of 14 surface replacement prostheses, 9 pyrocarbon prostheses, and 2 silicone prostheses. The average age of patients at prosthesis implantation was 64 years (range, 39–75 years). Prostheses were placed in 1 index, 12 long, 7 ring, and 5 small digits. Average follow-up period was 33 months (range, 24–69 months). Preoperative diagnoses were osteoarthritis (14), rheumatoid arthritis (4), and posttraumatic arthritis (2). Preoperative total arc of motion averaged 42° (range, 0° extension to 80° flexion); postoperative total arc of motion averaged 56° (range, –10° extension to 90° flexion). Complications comprised 1 swan neck deformity, 1 deep infection, 1 dislocation (early), and 2 loose implants with flexion contractures. Seventeen patients had minimal or no pain at their last follow-up visit.

Conclusions: PIP joint arthroplasty can be successfully implemented through a volar approach with various implant types and has outcomes similiar to the published results of the dorsal approach.
Ex-vivo Tendon Repair Augmented with Bone Marrow Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Stimulated with Myostatin for Tenogenesis
Authors: Le Wei , Cheah Andre Eu-Jin , Yao Jeffrey
Published: February 2018

Background: To investigate the effect of myostatin (GDF-8) stimulation of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on tenogenesis in the setting of tendon repair. GDF-8 has demonstrated the ability to augment tenogenesis and we sought to identify if this effect could lead to the focused differentiation of pluripotential stem cells down a tenocyte lineage ex vivo.

Methods: Cadaveric upper limb flexor tendons were harvested, decellularized and divided into 1 cm segments. Sutures seeded with stem cells were passed through tendon segments to simulate repair. The repaired tendons were then cultured either with or without myostatin for 3, 5, and 7 days. The experiment was also repeated with non-decellularized tendons for a total of 4 groups. The tendons were then evaluated for the expression of scleraxis and tenomodulin, two biomarkers for tendon.

Results: Myostatin stimulation led to an increase in expression of tenomodulin and scleraxis at 5 and 7 days in both the decellularized and non-decellularized tendons. Myostatin increased the differentiation of BMSCs into tenocytes and/or led to the upregulation of tenomodulin and scleraxis production by the native tenocytes present within the non-decellularized tendons.

Conclusions: The addition of myostatin to BMSCs leads to tenocyte differentiation as evidenced by the expression of tenocyte biomarkers, scleraxis and tenomodulin. This effect is maintained in an ex vivo tendon repair model suggestive that these cells survive the passage through tendon tissue and remain metabolically active.
Complications of Intramedullary Fixation for Distal Radius Fractures in Elderly Patients: A Retrospective Analysis Using McKay’s Complication Checklist
Authors: Wakasugi Takuma , Shirasaka Ritsuro , Kawauchi Toshiyuki , Fujita Koji , Okawa Atsushi
Published: February 2018

Background: Intramedullary fixation for distal radius fractures is reported to be free of hardware irritation and less invasive than other fixation methods. Some specific complications associated with intramedullary fixation, such as radial nerve sensory neuritis, have been reported, but no study has focused on the complication rates of intramedullary fixation for distal radius fractures in the elderly population. Furthermore, no studies have analyzed common complications, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and flexor tenosynovitis including trigger finger, among patients with distal radius fractures treated by intramedullary fixation based on a comprehensive complication checklist.

Methods: We reviewed the medical records of 52 elderly patients with distal radius fractures treated with intramedullary nail fixation. We investigated the postoperative complications in these patients using McKay’s complication checklist.

Results: 5 patients experienced radial nerve sensory disorder, and one patients developed carpal tunnel syndrome. All neurological symptoms resolved spontaneously, and these neurological complications were categorized as mild. Further, 3 patients developed trigger finger at the A1 pulley and needed triamcinolone injections for symptomatic relief. There were no tendinous complications around the implanted hardware. All tendinous complications were categorized as moderate complications and resolved with steroid injection therapy. Among skeletal complications, 1 case of postoperative volar displacement resolved with good functional outcome without the need for corrective osteotomy. This was considered a mild complication. The total complication rate was 19.2%. All complications were categorized as mild or moderate, and no patients experienced severe complications that needed further surgery such as hardware removal.

Conclusions: Intramedullary fixation for distal radius fractures was free from tendinous complications such as tenosynovitis and tendon ruptures around the implant, which are frequently caused by volar locking plate fixation. However, this less invasive technique could not avoid common complications such as trigger finger and carpal tunnel syndrome associated with distal radius fractures.
Endoscopic Trigger Finger Release: Surgical Technique
Authors: Duncan Scott F.M. , Kakinoki Ryosuke , Dunbar Ross
Published: February 2018

Numerous surgical approaches have been described for treating patients suffering with stenosing tenosynovitis. The usual surgical descriptions differ mainly by the type of skin incision utilized. The goal of surgery is to completely release the A1 pulley, thereby allowing unimpeded motion of the flexor tendons. We describe a minimally invasive endoscopic technique to address this condition in the fingers.
Failed Reconstruction of the Extensor Pollicis Longus in a Patient with a Major Variation of the Extensor Indicis Proprius Tendon: A Case Report
Authors: Matsumae Gen , Motomiya Makoto , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: February 2018

Tendon transfer with extensor indicis proprius (EIP) has been performed widely for reconstructing ruptures of the extensor pollicis longus because of its simplicity and clinical outcome. We experienced a rerupture of the extensor pollicis longus restored by incorrect tendon transfer because of a major unrecognized variation in the anatomy of the EIP. Surgeons should perform such transfer with a detailed knowledge of the possible anatomical variations to avoid such serious complications.
Lack of contribution of nitric oxide synthase to cholinergic vasodilation in murine renal afferent arterioles
Authors: Park Sungmi , Bivona Benjamin J. , Harrison-Bernard Lisa M.
Published: February 2018

We have previously reported significant increases in neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS) immunostaining in renal arterioles of angiotensin type 1A receptor (AT1A) knockout mice, and in arterioles and macula densa cells of AT1A/AT1B knockout mice. The contribution of nitric oxide derived from endothelial and macula densa cells in the maintenance of afferent arteriolar tone and acetylcholine-induced vasodilation was functionally determined in kidneys of wild-type, AT1A, and AT1A/AT1B knockout mice. Acetylcholine-induced changes in arteriolar diameters of in vitro blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephrons were measured during control conditions, in the presence of the nonspecific NOS inhibitor, Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (NLA), or the highly selective neuronal NOS inhibitor, N5-(1-imino-3-butenyl)-l-ornithine (VNIO). Acetylcholine (0.1 mM) produced a significant vasoconstriction in afferent arterioles of AT1A/AT1B mice (−10.9 ± 5.1%) and no changes in afferent arteriolar diameters of AT1A knockout mice. NLA (0.01–1 mM) or VNIO (0.01–1 μM) induced significant dose-dependent vasoconstrictions (−19.8 ± 4.0% 1 mM NLA; −7.8 ± 3.5% 1 μM VNIO) in afferent arterioles of kidneys of wild-type mice. VNIO had no effect on afferent arteriole diameters of AT1A knockout or AT1A/AT1B knockout mice, suggesting nonfunctional neuronal nitric oxide synthase. These data indicate that acetylcholine produces a significant renal afferent arteriole vasodilation independently of nitric oxide synthases in wild-type mice. AT1A receptors are essential for the manifestation of renal afferent arteriole responses to neuronal nitric oxide synthase-mediated nitric oxide release.
Vagal Interoceptive Modulation of Motivated Behavior
Authors: Maniscalco J. W. , Rinaman L.
Published: February 2018

In addition to regulating the ingestion and digestion of food, sensory feedback from gut to brain modifies emotional state and motivated behavior by subconsciously shaping cognitive and affective responses to events that bias behavioral choice. This focused review highlights evidence that gut-derived signals impact motivated behavior by engaging vagal afferents and central neural circuits that generally serve to limit or terminate goal-directed approach behaviors, and to initiate or maintain behavioral avoidance.
Rapid Identification of Pork Adulterated in the Beef and Mutton by Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Ling , Wu Ting , Liu Yun , Zou Juan , Huang Yunmao , Babu V. Sarath , Lin Li
Published: February 2018

Consumers concern about food adulteration. Pork meat is the principal adulterated species of beef and mutton. The conventional detection methods have their own limitations; therefore, we sought to develop an efficient and economical identification method using an infrared spectroscopy technique for meat. The Mahalanobis distance method was used to remove outliers in spectrum data. Interferences were eliminated using multiple scatter correction, standard normal variate, Savitzky-Golay smoothing, and normalization. The partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and support vector machine (SVM) were used to establish identification models. In the Mahalanobis distance method, the coefficient of test sets was increased from 0.93 to 0.99; the RMSEC and RMSECV were decreased from 0.17 to 0.09 and 0.21 to 0.11 accordingly. The coefficient of determination in-between the calibration and testing sets in PLS-DA reached 0.99 and 0.99, RMSEC was 0.06, and both the RMSECV and RMSEP were 0.08. In contrast, in SVM, methods were 0.97 and 0.96. The RMSEC, RMSECV, and RMSEP were 0.15, 0.17, and 0.24, respectively. In summary, using a combination of infrared spectroscopy technology with PLS-DA was a better identification method than the SVM method that can be used as an effective method to identify pork, beef, and mutton meat samples.
Leaf-Encapsulated Vaccines: Agroinfiltration and Transient Expression of the AntigenStaphylococcal EndotoxinB in Radish Leaves
Authors: Liu Pei-Feng , Wang Yanhan , Ulrich Robert G. , Simmons Christopher W. , VanderGheynst Jean S. , Gallo Richard L. , Huang Chun-Ming
Published: February 2018

Transgene introgression is a major concern associated with transgenic plant-based vaccines. Agroinfiltration can be used to selectively transform nonreproductive organs and avoid introgression. Here, we introduce a new vaccine modality in which Staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) genes are agroinfiltrated into radishes (Raphanw sativusL.), resulting in transient expression and accumulation of SEBin planta. This approach can simultaneously express multiple antigens in a single leaf. Furthermore, the potential of high-throughput vaccine production was demonstrated by simultaneously agroinfiltrating multiple radish leaves using a multichannel pipette. The expression of SEB was detectable in two leaf cell types (epidermal and guard cells) in agroinfiltrated leaves. ICR mice intranasally immunized with homogenized leaves agroinfiltrated with SEB elicited detectable antibody to SEB and displayed protection against SEB-induced interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) production. The concept of encapsulating antigens in leaves rather than purifying them for immunization may facilitate rapid vaccine production during an epidemic disease.
The Influence of Genetic Variations in the CD86 Gene on the Outcome after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Karabon Lidia , Markiewicz Miroslaw , Chrobot Karolina , Dzierzak-Mietla Monika , Pawlak-Adamska Edyta , Partyka Anna , Koclega Anna , Kyrcz-Krzemien Slawomira , Frydecka Irena
Published: February 2018

CD86 molecule is the ligand for both costimulatory (CD28) and coinhibitory (CTLA-4) molecules, and it regulates immune response after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT). Therefore, we postulate that CD86 gene variations might influence the outcome after alloHSCT. Altogether, 295 adult patients (pts) undergoing related (105 pts) and unrelated (190 pts) donor-matched HSCT were genotyped for the following CD86 gene polymorphisms: rs1129055, rs9831894, and rs2715267. Moreover, the donors’ rs1129055 polymorphism was determined. None of the investigated SNPs alone were associated with aGvHD and rate of relapse. However, we showed that rs2715267 SNP influenced overall survival (OS) after alloHSCT. The 24-month OS for the rs271526GG recipients was worse than that for the recipients possessing T allelle (TT or GT genotypes) (p=0.009). Moreover, analysis of gene-gene interaction between CD86 and CTLA-4 showed that having both the A allele for CD86 rs1129055 and the CTLA-4 CT60GG genotype in recipients increased the risk of aGvHD about 3.5 times. Interestingly, the donors’ rs1129055GG genotype and the recipients’ CT60GG genotype also increased the risk of aGvHD about 2.7-fold. We postulate that recipients’ CD86 gene polymorphisms influence the overall survival after alloHSCT and, together with CTLA-4 polymorphisms, might be considered a risk factor for aGvHD.
Studying Engineering Characteristics of Asphalt Binder and Mixture Modified by Nanosilica and Estimating Their Correlations
Authors: Hasaninia Moein , Haddadi Farshad
Published: February 2018

The objective of this research was to investigate rutting and fatigue distresses in asphalt containing 2, 4, 6, and 8 percent of nanosilica (NC) and to find out the correlation between engineering properties of the modified binder and mixture asphalt. In order to study the effect of NC on the rutting and fatigue properties of modified binders, the multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR) and linear amplitude sweep (LAS) tests were carried out. The Marshall stability, dynamic creep, and four‐point bending beam fatigue tests were used to evaluate performance characteristics of the mixtures. The binder and mixture tests all indicated an improvement of fatigue and rutting resistance using NC as a modifier. Furthermore, some statistical correlations between engineering properties were developed successfully.
Can Driving-Simulator Training Enhance Visual Attention, Cognition, and Physical Functioning in Older Adults?
Authors: Haeger Mathias , Bock Otmar , Memmert Daniel , Hüttermann Stefanie
Published: February 2018

Virtual reality offers a good possibility for the implementation of real-life tasks in a laboratory-based training or testing scenario. Thus, a computerized training in a driving simulator offers an ecological valid training approach. Visual attention had an influence on driving performance, so we used the reverse approach to test the influence of a driving training on visual attention and executive functions. Thirty-seven healthy older participants (mean age: 71.46 ± 4.09; gender: 17 men and 20 women) took part in our controlled experimental study. We examined transfer effects from a four-week driving training (three times per week) on visual attention, executive function, and motor skill. Effects were analyzed using an analysis of variance with repeated measurements. Therefore, main factors were group and time to show training-related benefits of our intervention. Results revealed improvements for the intervention group in divided visual attention; however, there were benefits neither in the other cognitive domains nor in the additional motor task. Thus, there are no broad training-induced transfer effects from such an ecologically valid training regime. This lack of findings could be addressed to insufficient training intensities or a participant-induced bias following the cancelled randomization process.
Increased Proportion of Tc17 and Th17 Cells and Their Significant Reduction after Thymectomy May Be Related to Disease Progression in Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Hosseini Mina , Robat-Jazi Behrouz , Shaygannejad Vahid , Naffisi Shahriar , Mirmossayeb Omid , Rezaei Abbas , Mansourian Marjan , Esmaeil Nafiseh
Published: February 2018

Objective: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease mediated by autoantibodies against the neuromuscular junction. The thymus has an important role in the pathogenesis of MG because most patients have thymic pathology, and thymectomy (TE) can reduce the severity of the disease. Methods: In this study, the frequency of Th17 and Tc17 cells was studied in 12 MG patients (pre-TE and 6 months post-TE) and in 12 healthy controls (HC). Results: The frequency of Tc17 cells in the pre-TE patients was significantly higher than in the HC (p < 0.05), and after TE, these cells had significantly decreased compared to before TE (p < 0.05). The frequency of Th17 cells in pre-TE patients was significantly higher than in the HC (p < 0.05), and after TE, these cells had significantly decreased compared to before TE (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings indicated a possible role of Tc17 and Th17 in MG pathogenesis.
Statin Therapy and Outcomes in Trials of Nintedanib in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Kreuter Michael , Costabel Ulrich , Richeldi Luca , Cottin Vincent , Wijsenbeek Marlies , Bonella Francesco , Bendstrup Elisabeth , Maher Toby M. , Wachtlin Daniel  , Stowasser Susanne , Kolb Martin
Published: February 2018

Background: Cardiovascular comorbidities are frequent in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and many patients with IPF receive treatment with statins to reduce cardiovascular risk. Objectives: We investigated whether statin use at baseline was associated with differences in disease progression in placebo-treated patients or influenced the treatment effect of nintedanib in the INPULSIS® trials. Methods: Post-hoc subgroup analyses of patients receiving versus not receiving statins at baseline using pooled data from the INPULSIS® trials. Results: At baseline, 312 patients received statins and 749 did not. The annual rates of decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) in patients treated with nintedanib and placebo, respectively, were –78.9 and –187.6 mL/year in patients who received statins at baseline, and –127.9 and –237.9 mL/year in patients who did not. The effect of nintedanib was consistent across subgroups (p = 0.9590). Conclusions: In the INPULSIS® trials, there was a numerically lower FVC decline in placebo-treated patients with IPF who received statins at baseline versus those who did not. Use of statins at baseline did not influence the treatment effect of nintedanib. Prospective data are needed to assess the impact of statins on the course of IPF.
Stent Reconstruction of Carotid Tonsillar Loop Dissection Using Telescoping Peripheral Stents
Authors: Zussman Benjamin M. , Gross Bradley A. , Ares William J. , Kenmuir Cynthia L. , Weiner Gregory M. , Panczykowski David M. , Jadhav Ashutosh P. , Jovin Tudor G. , Jankowitz Brian T.
Published: February 2018

Background: Endovascular treatment options for internal carotid artery (ICA) dissection with tandem intracranial occlusion are evolving. We report 2 cases of stent reconstruction of carotid loop dissections. Methods: Two patients with symptomatic ICA dissections of true 360° tonsillar loops and tandem intracranial occlusions were treated with manual aspiration thrombectomy (MAT) and telescoping Zilver self-expanding peripheral stents. Patient demographics, clinical presentations, endovascular techniques, and clinical outcomes were reviewed. Results: In both cases, MAT achieved modified Treatment in Cerebral Ischemia scale 2B reperfusion, and complete endovascular reconstruction of the dissected extracranial loop was performed. Both patients had improved pre- to postintervention National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores (16 to 0 and 14 to 0), and both had modified Rankin scale scores of 1 at 3-month follow-up. Conclusions: Stent reconstruction of complex cerebrovascular anatomy is increasingly feasible with advancements in stent technology and catheter support system design. This technique may be of use to neuroendovascular surgeons who encounter variant ICA anatomy.
Overexpression of LncRNA AC067945.2 Down-Regulates Collagen Expression in Skin Fibroblasts and Possibly Correlates with the VEGF and Wnt Signalling Pathways
Authors: Chen Ling , Li Jingyun , Li Qian , Li Xue , Gao Yanli , Hua Xiangdong , Zhou Bei , Li Jun
Published: February 2018

Background/Aims: Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are thought to play crucial roles in human diseases. However, the function of lncRNAs in hypertrophic scar formation remains poorly understood. Methods: Utilizing qRT-PCR, we explored the expression changes of AC067945.2. Overexpression of AC067945.2 in normal skin fibroblasts was performed by transient plasmid transfection. Western blot was used to check the proteins’ expression changes. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and Annexin V/7-AAD staining were used to examine cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. mRNA-seq was applied to dissect the differentially expressed mRNAs in AC067945.2 overexpressed cells. We also performed ELISA to detect the VEGF secretion. Results: AC067945.2 was down-regulated in hypertrophic scar tissues. Overexpression of AC067945.2 did not affect cell proliferation, but it mildly promoted early apoptosis in normal skin fibroblasts. Furthermore, AC067945.2 overexpression inhibited the expression of COL1A1, COL1A2, COL3A1 and α-SMA proteins. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) could inhibit the expression of AC067945.2. Based on mRNA-seq data, compared with mRNAs in the control group, 138 mRNAs were differentially expressed, including 14 up-regulated and 124 down-regulated transcripts, in the AC067945.2 overexpression group. Gene ontology and pathway analyses revealed that AC067945.2 overexpression was correlated with developmental processes, binding, extracellular region, and the vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) and Wnt signalling pathways. ELISA confirmed that AC067945.2 overexpression could repress VEGF secretion. Conclusion: Taken together, our data uncovered the functions of a novel lncRNA AC067945.2, which might help us understand the mechanisms regulated by AC067945.2 in the pathogenesis of hypertrophic scar formation.
Fusion to Human Serum Albumin Extends the Circulatory Half-Life and Duration of Antithrombotic Action of the Kunitz Protease Inhibitor Domain of Protease Nexin 2
Authors: Sheffield William P. , Eltringham-Smith Louise J. , Bhakta Varsha
Published: February 2018

Background/Aims: The Kunitz Protease Inhibitor (KPI) domain of protease nexin 2 (PN2) potently inhibits coagulation factor XIa. Recombinant KPI has been shown to inhibit thrombosis in mouse models, but its clearance from the murine circulation remains uncharacterized. The present study explored the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of fusing KPI to human serum albumin (HSA) in fusion protein KPIHSA. Methods: Hexahistidine-tagged KPI (63 amino acids) and KPIHSA (656 amino acids) were expressed in Pichia pastoris yeast and purified by nickel-chelate chromatography. Clearance profiles in mice were determined, as well as the effects of KPI or KPIHSA administration on FeCl3-induced vena cava thrombus size or carotid artery time to occlusion, respectively. Results: Fusion to HSA increased the mean terminal half-life of KPI by 8-fold and eliminated its interaction with the low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein. KPI and KPIHSA similarly reduced thrombus size and occlusion in both venous and arterial thrombosis models when administered at the time of injury, but only KPI was effective when administered one hour before injury. Conclusions: Albumin fusion deflects KPI from rapid in vivo clearance without impairing its antithrombotic properties and widens its potential therapeutic window.
ТЕОРЕТИКО-МЕТОДОЛОГІЧНІ ОСНОВИ СІМЕЙНОГО КОНСУЛЬТУВАННЯ В РОБОТІ МЕДИЧНОЇ СЕСТРИ
Authors: Melnychuk I. M. , Bryk O. I.
Published: February 2018

Розглянуто основні моделі сімейного консультування. Визначено сутність психодинамічної моделі консультування сім’ї з метою визначення можливостей її використання у професійній діяльності медичної сестри.
Gastronomia sustentável: análise da logística reversa em restaurantes de Florianópolis, Brasil
Authors: Vasconcellos Beatriz Ingryd , Vogel Douglas Ricardo , Bortnowska Katarzyna
Published: February 2018

A logística reversa trata da recuperação e do gerenciamento de bens, podendo acrescentar valores para a imagem da empresa e o meio ambiente. Analisar o processo desta logística nas atividades dos restaurantes da Grande Florianópolis foi o objetivo deste trabalho. Os dados foram coletados de forma quantitativa através de um questionário aplicado a uma amostra não-probabilística de 24 estabelecimentos selecionados por conveniência, localizados em três rotas gastronômicas: Coqueiros, Sambaqui e Ribeirão da Ilha. Observou-se que os restaurantes têm práticas positivas e negativas para o meio ambiente sob o aspecto da logística reversa, sendo que os positivos tangem à reciclagem do óleo de cozinha, dos resíduos sólidos e a capacitação de colaborares. Já os negativos têm relação com a reutilização e reciclagem das embalagens, a falta de compostagem e o pequeno número de hortas nos restaurantes. Concluiu-se que a preocupação ambiental dos gestores é somente com o que já é exigido pela legislação e não uma filosofia da empresa. Observa-se a falta de incentivos e fiscalização governamental sobre os aspectos ambientais, assim como pesquisas acadêmicas em segmentos diferenciados.
Religious Minorities and Freedom of Religion or Belief in the uk
Authors: Weller Paul
Published: February 2018

By particular reference to the polity of the uk, this article discusses issues and options for groups identified as “religious minorities” in relation to issues of “religious freedom”. It does so by seeking to ensure that such contemporary socio-legal discussions are rooted empirically in the full diversity of the uk’s contemporary religious landscape, while taking account of (especially) 19th century (mainly Christian) historical antecedents. It argues that properly to understand the expansion in scope and substance of religious freedom achieved in the 19th century that account needs to be taken of the agency of the groups that benefited from this. Finally, it argues this history can be seen as a “preconfiguration” of the way in which religious minorities have themselves acted as key drivers for change in relevant 20th and 21st century uk law and social policy and could continue to do so in possible futures post-Brexit Referendum.
A new species of Microdeutopus, M. periergos sp. nov. (Crustacea, Amphipoda, Senticaudata, Aoridae) from Cyprus (East Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: MYERS ALAN , PLAITI WANDA , ROUSOU MARIA
Published: February 2018

A new species of Microdeutopus, M. periergos sp. nov. is described from Cyprus. This brings the total number of species of Microdeutopus known from the Mediterranean Sea to twelve. It is described and figured here and a key to the genus is provided.
Atmospheric Dynamics Feedback: Concept, Simulations, and Climate Implications
Authors: Byrne Michael P. , Schneider Tapio
Published: February 2018

The regional climate response to radiative forcing is largely controlled by changes in the atmospheric circulation. It has been suggested that global climate sensitivity also depends on the circulation response, an effect called the “atmospheric dynamics feedback.” Using a technique to isolate the influence of changes in atmospheric circulation on top-of-the-atmosphere radiation, the authors calculate the atmospheric dynamics feedback in coupled climate models. Large-scale circulation changes contribute substantially to all-sky and cloud feedbacks in the tropics but are relatively less important at higher latitudes. Globally averaged, the atmospheric dynamics feedback is positive and amplifies the near-surface temperature response to climate change by an average of 8% in simulations with coupled models. A constraint related to the atmospheric mass budget results in the dynamics feedback being small on large scales relative to feedbacks associated with thermodynamic processes. Idealized-forcing simulations suggest that circulation changes at high latitudes are potentially more effective at influencing global temperature than circulation changes at low latitudes, and the implications for past and future climate change are discussed.
Assessing the Variance in Pupil Attainment: How Important is the School Attended?
Authors: Wilkinson David , Bryson Alex , Stokes Lucy
Published: February 2018

We explore the variation in pupil attainment at the end of secondary schooling in England. The paper links data on all schools and all pupils within these schools to analyse the role of the school in accounting for this variation. We analyse a number of different indicators of pupil attainment including value added between the end of primary and secondary schooling and attainment levels at the end of secondary schooling. We examine indicators that were the focus of the school accounting framework as well as other indicators that were not directly part of how schools were assessed. We show that schools account for a minority of the variance in pupil attainment, and the extent of the variation accounted for by the school is sensitive to the measure of pupil attainment used. In addition, we find that the majority of the explained school-level variance in attainment is related to school composition. However, most of the variance in attainment remains unexplained, raising questions about what other factors contribute to the variation in school performance.
Identifying Schools With High Usage and High Loss of Newly Qualified Teachers
Authors: Sims Sam , Allen Rebecca
Published: February 2018

In England, teacher shortages have worsened in recent years and one contributor is the declining rates of retention among newly qualified teachers (NQTs). We employ a method developed in the health-statistics literature to identify schools that both recruit an unusually high level of NQTs and lose an unusually high level of NQTs from the profession. We show that this small group of schools, which are likely characterised by poor working conditions, are responsible for a disproportionately large amount of attrition from the teaching profession. This has a material effect on overall teacher shortages and comes at a high cost to taxpayers. Policy solutions, including improving the flow of information to NQTs to help them avoid such schools, are discussed
Underemployment and the Lack of Wage Pressure in the UK
Authors: Bell David N.F. , Blanchflower David G.
Published: February 2018

In this note, we focus on underemployment as a potential cause of lower wage growth, which itself may have deeper causes, but which has, we would argue, demonstrably changed since the 2008 recession. The gap between our measures of the number of additional hours required by those who want more hours and the number who want less has narrowed recently. Neither have returned to their pre-recession levels. In our view, underemployment remains a major factor in explaining the 2 per cent wage norm that continues to exist in the UK.
Risk analysis and optimization for communication transmission link interruption in Smart Grid cyber-physical system
Authors: Chen Xingyu , Zhao Puyuan , Yu Peng , Liu Baoju , Li Wenjing , Xie Yingjun , Chen Xiangzhou , Yuan Mengying
Published: February 2018

Since the communication network of the cyber-physical power system is responsible for communicating information, which guarantees the operation of the cyber-physical power system, researchers focus on the stability of the communication system. This article analyzes the risk of the communication transmission link interruption based on the network structure and characteristics of service transmission and proposes a path optimization method. First, we analyze the impact of link disruption on network structure and service, respectively, and quantify the impact as link interruption risk. According to the risk analysis, we propose an optimization method utilizing the Dijkstra’s algorithm and the genetic algorithm to reconfigure service paths, which aims to minimize time delay and realize the equilibrium of service distribution. Through a particular situation, we calculate the link interruption risk and use the optimization method to configure service path for affected service. The results show that the time delays of the optimized service paths are in the acceptable level as well as the balance index of the service distribution is decreased obviously. The simulation experiment reveals the operability of the risk analysis method and the effectiveness of the path optimization method, which provides a technical reference for risk analysis and service path configuration.
The accuracy of ultrasound estimation of fetal weight in comparison to birth weight: A systematic review
Authors: Milner Julia , Arezina Jane
Published: February 2018

Ultrasound estimation of fetal weight is a highly influential factor in antenatal management, guiding both the timing and mode of delivery of a pregnancy. Although substantial research has investigated the most accurate ultrasound formula for calculating estimated fetal weight, current evidence indicates significant error levels. The aim of this systematic review was to identify the most accurate method, whilst identifying sources of inaccuracy in order to facilitate recommendations for future practice. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria and 11 different formulae were assessed; ultrasound calculation of fetal weight was most commonly overestimated. The Hadlock A formula produced the most accurate results, with the lowest levels of random error. Methods incorporating just two measurement parameters were inconsistent, producing large random errors across multiple studies. Key sources of inaccuracy included difficulties obtaining accurate fetal measurements in late gestation; the remainder were operator dependent, including lack of experience and insufficient training and audit. The accuracy of ultrasound estimated fetal weight has improved in the last decade, though a lack of consistency remains evident. National implementation of a rigorous audit programme would likely improve accuracy further, and increase the confidence and clinical value of the method.
20 years of rheumatoid hand surgery: what did I learn?
Authors: Herren Daniel B.
Published: February 2018

Rheumatoid arthritis is one common form of inflammatory arthritis that affects about 1% of the population. Few conditions in hand surgery have undergone such fundamental changes within the last two decades as rheumatoid arthritis has with regard to clinical presentations and treatments. This article provides a personal practice-guided review of the author’s decision making and treatment for patients with rheumatoid arthritis in the past two decades.