bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circle-Point Containment, Monte Carlo Method for Shape Matching Based on Feature Points Using the Technique of Sparse Uniform Grids
Authors: Wei Xiangzhi , Zhao Jie , Qiu Siqi
Published: January 2018

Shape matching using their critical feature points is useful in mechanical processes such as precision measure of manufactured parts and automatic assembly of parts. In this paper, we present a practical algorithm for measuring the similarity of two point sets A and B: Given an allowable tolerance ε, our target is to determine the feasibility of placing A with respect to B such that the maximum of the minimum distance from each point of A to its corresponding matched point in B is no larger than ε. For sparse and small point sets, an improved algorithm is achieved based on a sparse grid, which is used as an auxiliary structure for building the correspondence relationship between A and B. For large point sets, allowing a trade-off between efficiency and accuracy, we approximate the problem as computing the directed Hausdorff distance from A to B, and provide a two-phase nested Monte Carlo method for solving the problem. Experimental results are presented to validate the proposed algorithms.
Geometry of Transformable Metamaterials Inspired by Modular Origami
Authors: Yang Yunfang , You Zhong
Published: January 2018

Modular origami is a type of origami where multiple pieces of paper are folded into modules, and these modules are then interlocked with each other forming an assembly. Some of them turn out to be capable of large-scale shape transformation, making them ideal to create metamaterials with tuned mechanical properties. In this paper, we carry out a fundamental research on two-dimensional (2D) transformable assemblies inspired by modular origami. Using mathematical tiling and patterns and mechanism analysis, we are able to develop various structures consisting of interconnected quadrilateral modules. Due to the existence of 4R linkages within the assemblies, they become transformable, and can be compactly packaged. Moreover, by the introduction of paired modules, we are able to adjust the expansion ratio of the pattern. Moreover, we also show that transformable patterns with higher mobility exist for other polygonal modules. The design flexibility among these structures makes them ideal to be used for creation of truly programmable metamaterials.
Contact-Dependent Balance Stability of Biped Robots
Authors: Mummolo Carlotta , Peng William Z. , Gonzalez Carlos , Kim Joo H.
Published: January 2018

A theoretical–algorithmic framework for the construction of balance stability boundaries of biped robots with multiple contacts with the environment is proposed and implemented on a robotic platform. Comprehensive and univocal definitions of the states of balance of a generic legged system are introduced with respect to the system's contact configuration. Theoretical models of joint-space and center of mass (COM)-space dynamics under multiple contacts, distribution of contact wrenches, and robotic system parameters are established for their integration into a nonlinear programing (NLP) problem. In the proposed approach, the balance stability capabilities of a biped robot are quantified by a partition of the state space of COM position and velocity. The boundary of such a partition provides a threshold between balanced and falling states of the biped robot with respect to a specified contact configuration. For a COM state to be outside of the stability boundary represents the sufficient condition for falling, from which a change in the system's contact is inevitable. Through the calculated stability boundaries, the effects of different contact configurations (single support (SS) and double support (DS) with different step lengths) on the robot's balance stability capabilities can be quantitatively evaluated. In addition, the balance characteristics of the experimental walking trajectories of the robot at various speeds are analyzed in relation to their respective stability boundaries. The proposed framework provides a contact-dependent balance stability criterion for a given system, which can be used to improve the design and control of walking robots.
Comparison of Two-Phase Flow Correlations for Thermo-Hydraulic Modeling of Direct Steam Generation in a Solar Parabolic Trough Collector System
Authors: Kumar Bohra Nitin , Reddy K. S.
Published: January 2018

Direct steam generation (DSG) in parabolic trough collector (PTC) is an efficient and feasible option for solar thermal power generation as well as for industrial process heat supply. The two-phase flow inside the absorber tube complicates the thermo-hydraulic modeling of the DSG process. In the present work, a thermo-hydraulic model is developed for the DSG process in the receiver of a solar PTC. The two-phase flow in the evaporating section is analyzed using two empirical correlations of heat transfer and pressure drop, and a flow map integrated heat transfer and pressure drop model. The results of the thermo-hydraulic simulation using different two-phase heat transfer and pressure drop correlations were compared with experimental data from the direct solar steam (DISS) test facility at Plataforma Solar de Almeria (PSA), Spain. The test facility has collectors with aperture width of 5.76 m, focal length of 1.71 m, and absorber tube with inner and outer diameters of 50 mm and 70 mm, respectively. The simulation results using the aforementioned two-phase models were found to be satisfactory and consistent within the experimental uncertainty. The flow map based heat transfer model predicted the mean fluid temperature with root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 0.45% and 1.40%, for the cases considered in the present study. Whereas the flow pattern map based pressure drop model predicts the variation of pressure along the length of the collector with RMSE of 0.5% and 0.14%. Moreover, the flow pattern map based model predicts the different flow regimes paving a better understanding of the two-phase flow and helps in identifying the critical sections along the collector length.
Analysis of the Core Physical Characteristics of China Experimental Fast Reactor With MCNP
Authors: Wenbin Xiong , Qin Xie , Huwei Li , Sengai Yang , Huan Mao , Jian Cao
Published: January 2018

The whole core model of China experimental fast reactor (CEFR) is established according to the parameters of China experimental fast reactor, which are given by technical publication from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA-TECDOC-1531), and the physical parameters of CEFR are simulated with the Monte Carlo N-particle code (MCNP4a). The calculation results are compared with the data contained in the safety analysis report of CEFR. The calculation results are consistent with the design values, which successfully demonstrate the acceptable fidelity of the MCNP model. The MCNP model will be further refined and applied for nuclear safety review of the CEFR in the future.
Targeted Synthesis and Characterization of a Gene Cluster Encoding NAD(P)H-Dependent 3α-, 3β-, and 12α-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases from Eggerthella CAG:298, a Gut Metagenomic Sequence
Authors: Mythen Sean M. , Devendran Saravanan , Méndez-García Celia , Cann Isaac , Ridlon Jason M.
Published: January 2018

Gut metagenomic sequences provide a rich source of microbial genes, the majority of which are annotated by homology or unknown. Genes and gene pathways that encode enzymes catalyzing biotransformation of host bile acids are important to identify in gut metagenomic sequences due to the importance of bile acids in gut microbiome structure and host physiology. Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (HSDHs) are pyridine nucleotide-dependent enzymes with stereospecificity and regiospecificity for bile acid and steroid hydroxyl groups. HSDHs have been identified in several protein families, including medium-chain and short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase families as well as the aldo-keto reductase family. These protein families are large and contain diverse functionalities, making prediction of HSDH-encoding genes difficult and necessitating biochemical characterization. We located a gene cluster in
Eggerthella
sp. CAG:298 predicted to encode three HSDHs (CDD59473, CDD59474, and CDD59475) and synthesized the genes for heterologous expression in
Escherichia coli
. We then screened bile acid substrates against the purified recombinant enzymes. CDD59475 is a novel 12α-HSDH, and we determined that CDD59474 (3α-HSDH) and CDD59473 (3β-HSDH) constitute novel enzymes in an iso-bile acid pathway. Phylogenetic analysis of these HSDHs with other gut bacterial HSDHs and closest homologues in the database revealed predictable clustering of HSDHs by function and identified several likely HSDH sequences from bacteria isolated or sequenced from diverse mammalian and avian gut samples.

IMPORTANCE
Bacterial HSDHs have the potential to significantly alter the physicochemical properties of bile acids, with implications for increased/decreased toxicity for gut bacteria and the host. The generation of oxo-bile acids is known to inhibit host enzymes involved in glucocorticoid metabolism and may alter signaling through nuclear receptors such as farnesoid X receptor and G-protein-coupled receptor TGR5. Biochemical or similar approaches are required to fill in many gaps in our ability to link a particular enzymatic function with a nucleic acid or amino acid sequence. In this regard, we have identified a novel 12α-HSDH and a novel set of genes encoding an iso-bile acid pathway (3α-HSDH and 3β-HSDH) involved in epimerization and detoxification of harmful secondary bile acids.
Cooperative Immune Suppression by Escherichia coli and Shigella Effector Proteins
Authors: de Jong Maarten F. , Alto Neal M.
Published: January 2018

The enteric attaching and effacing (A/E) pathogens enterohemorrhagic
Escherichia coli
(EHEC) and enteropathogenic
E. coli
(EPEC) and the invasive pathogens enteroinvasive
E. coli
(EIEC) and
Shigella
encode type III secretion systems (T3SS) used to inject effector proteins into human host cells during infection. Among these are a group of effectors required for NF-κB-mediated host immune evasion. Recent studies have identified several effector proteins from A/E pathogens and EIEC/
Shigella
that are involved in suppression of NF-κB and have uncovered their cellular and molecular functions. A novel mechanism among these effectors from both groups of pathogens is to coordinate effector function during infection. This cooperativity among effector proteins explains how bacterial pathogens are able to effectively suppress innate immune defense mechanisms in response to diverse classes of immune receptor signaling complexes (RSCs) stimulated during infection.
Direct Manipulation of T Lymphocytes by Proteins of Gastrointestinal Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Cassady-Cain Robin L. , Hope Jayne C. , Stevens Mark P.
Published: January 2018

Gastrointestinal bacterial infection represents a significant threat to human health, as well as a burden on food animal production and welfare. Although there is advanced knowledge about the molecular mechanisms underlying pathogenesis, including the development of immune responses to these pathogens, gaps in knowledge persist. It is well established that gastrointestinal bacterial pathogens produce a myriad of proteins that affect the development and effectiveness of innate immune responses. However, relatively few proteins that directly affect lymphocytes responsible for humoral or cell-mediated immunity and memory have been identified. Here, we review factors produced by gastrointestinal bacterial pathogens that have direct T cell interactions and what is known about their functions and mechanisms of action. T cell-interacting bacterial proteins that have been identified to date mainly target three major T cell responses: activation and expansion, chemotaxis, or apoptosis. Further, the requirement for more focused studies to identify and understand additional mechanisms used by bacteria to directly affect the T cell immune response and how these may contribute to pathogenesis is highlighted. Increased knowledge in this area will help to drive development of better interventions in prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal bacterial infection.
Natural and Artificial Strategies To Control the Conjugative Transmission of Plasmids
Authors: Getino María , de la Cruz Fernando
Published: January 2018

Conjugative plasmids are the main carriers of transmissible antibiotic resistance (AbR) genes. For that reason, strategies to control plasmid transmission have been proposed as potential solutions to prevent AbR dissemination. Natural mechanisms that bacteria employ as defense barriers against invading genomes, such as restriction-modification or CRISPR-Cas systems, could be exploited to control conjugation. Besides, conjugative plasmids themselves display mechanisms to minimize their associated burden or to compete with related or unrelated plasmids. Thus, FinOP systems, composed of FinO repressor protein and FinP antisense RNA, aid plasmids to regulate their own transfer; exclusion systems avoid conjugative transfer of related plasmids to the same recipient bacteria; and fertility inhibition systems block transmission of unrelated plasmids from the same donor cell. Artificial strategies have also been designed to control bacterial conjugation. For instance, intrabodies against R388 relaxase expressed in recipient cells inhibit plasmid R388 conjugative transfer; pIII protein of bacteriophage M13 inhibits plasmid F transmission by obstructing conjugative pili; and unsaturated fatty acids prevent transfer of clinically relevant plasmids in different hosts, promoting plasmid extinction in bacterial populations. Overall, a number of exogenous and endogenous factors have an effect on the sophisticated process of bacterial conjugation. This review puts them together in an effort to offer a wide picture and inform research to control plasmid transmission, focusing on Gram-negative bacteria.
Therapists’ experiences with a new treatment combining physical exercise and dietary therapy (the PED-t) for eating disorders: an interview study in a randomised controlled trial at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences
Authors: Bakland Maria , Sundgot-Borgen Jorunn , Wynn Rolf , Rosenvinge Jan H , Stornæs Annett Victoria , Pettersen Gunn
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The aim of the current study is to explore how therapists running a guided physical exercise and dietary therapy programme (PED-t) experience their contribution to the treatment of patients with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

Methods

Ten therapists running the PED-t were semistructurally interviewed and the transcribed interviews were analysed using a systematic text condensation approach.

Setting

The study was run within the context of a randomised controlled trial at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences.

Results

The therapists experienced their knowledge about physical exercise and nutrition as important and useful, and that they could share their knowledge with the patients in different ways and with confidence in their own role. They also believed that their knowledge could serve as tools for the patients’ post-treatment recovery and management of their daily lives. Moreover, the therapists put much effort in adjusting their teaching to fit each individual participant. Finally, they reported their personal qualities as important to build trust and therapeutic alliance.

Conclusions

The terms ‘clinical confidence’ and ‘alliance’ may stand out as the overarching ‘metacategories’ covering the experiences revealed in this study. The clinical implication is that new groups of professionals may have an important role in the treatment of eating disorders.

Trial registration number

NCTO2079935; Results.
Affective stimuli in behavioural interventions soliciting for health check-up services and the service users’ socioeconomic statuses: a study at Japanesepachinkoparlours
Authors: Kondo Naoki , Ishikawa Yoshiki
Published: January 2018

Editor’s note

The study reported in this article examines a health intervention that uses gendered stereotypes of the nursing profession and suggestive uniforms that play on women’s sexuality to encourage people to engage in health checkups. The intervention was not under the control of the authors and the study was approved by an institutional research ethics board. TheJournal of Epidemiology & Community Healthcondemns the use of sexism, gender and professional stereotypes and other forms of discriminatory or exploitative behaviour for any purpose, including health promotion programs. In light of concerns raised about this paper (see eLetters with this paper), we are conducting an audit of our review process and will put in place measures to ensure that the material we publish condemns sexism, racism and other forms of discrimination and embodies principles of inclusion and non-discrimination.

Background

Socioeconomically vulnerable people are likely to have more health risks because of inadequate behaviour choices related to chronic social stresses. Brain science suggests that stress causes cognitively biased automatic decision making, preferring instant stress relief and pleasure (eg, smoking, alcohol use and drug abuse) as opposed to reflectively seeking health-maintenance services (eg, health check-ups). As such, hedonic stimuli that nudge people towards preventive actions could reduce health behaviour disparities. The purpose of this intervention study was to test this hypothesis.

Methods

An instant health check-up service company had 320 health check-up sessions atpachinko(Japanese gambling) parlours; 1721 persons in intervention sessions and 6507 persons in control sessions received the service. The stimuli the company used in the intervention sessions were young women wearing mildly erotic nurse costumes, who solicited the pachinko players for health check-up services. We compared the prevalence of socioeconomically vulnerable individuals between the intervention and control sessions, adjusting for individual-level and parlour-level potential confounders.

Results

Even adjusting for health risks and within-parlour clustering, the intervention sessions gathered more socioeconomically vulnerable customers than the regular sessions. Compared with control sessions, in intervention sessions the adjusted prevalence ratios were 1.15 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.35) for not having a job (vs having a job) and 1.36 (95% CI 1.00 to 1.86) for holders of National Health Insurance (which includes more socially vulnerable people than other insurance programmes).

Conclusion

The results supported our hypothesis. Offering health check-up opportunities equipped with ‘tricks’ that nudge people to act might be effective for anyone but is potentially more valuable for socially vulnerable people. Ethical discussions are needed to further consider the use of erotic stimuli and other essential drivers of human behaviour.
Risk factors for survival in patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease
Authors: Wang Jiang-Yi , Peng Shuang-He , Li Teng , Ning Xiang-Hui , Liu Sheng-Jie , Hong Bao-An , Liu Jia-Yuan , Wu Peng-Jie , Zhou Bo-Wen , Zhou Jing-Cheng , Qi Nie-Nie , Peng Xiang , Zhang Jiu-Feng , Ma Kai-Fang , Cai Lin , Gong Kan
Published: January 2018

Background

Historically, von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is characterised by a poor survival. Although genotype–phenotype correlation has been described in many studies, the risk factors for VHL survival remain unclear. This study aims to evaluate the median survival of Chinese patients with VHL disease and explore whether VHL survival is influenced by genetic and clinical factors.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we recruited 340 patients from 127 VHL families. Kaplan-Meier plot and Cox regression model were used to evaluate the median survival and assess how survival was influenced by birth year, birth order, sex, family history, mutation type, onset age and first presenting symptom.

Results

The estimated median life expectancy for Chinese patients with VHL disease was 62 years. Patients with early-onset age, positive family history and truncating mutation types had poorer overall and VHL-related survival. Patients with haemangioblastoma as their first presenting symptom were related to a higher risk of death from central nervous system haemangioblastoma than those with abdominal lesions (HR 8.84, 95% CI 2.04 to 38.37, P=0.004).

Conclusions

This largest VHL survival analysis indicates that onset age, family history, mutation type and first presenting symptom have an effect on the survival of patients with VHL disease, which is helpful to genetic counselling and clinical decision-making.
Skill sets required for the management of military head, face and neck trauma: a multidisciplinary consensus statement
Authors: Breeze John , Blanch R , Baden J , Monaghan A M , Evriviades D , Harrisson S E , Roberts S , Gibson A , MacKenzie N , Baxter D , Gibbons A J , Heppell S , Combes J G , Rickard R F
Published: January 2018

Introduction

The evolution of medical practice is resulting in increasing subspecialisation, with head, face and neck (HFN) trauma in a civilian environment usually managed by a combination of surgical specialties working as a team. However, the full combination of HFN specialties commonly available in the NHS may not be available in future UK military-led operations, necessitating the identification of a group of skill sets that could be delivered by one or more deployed surgeons.

Method

A systematic review was undertaken to identify those surgical procedures performed to treat acute military head, face, neck and eye trauma. A multidisciplinary consensus group was convened following this with military HFN trauma expertise to define those procedures commonly required to conduct deployed, in-theatre HFN surgical combat trauma management.

Results

Head, face, neck and eye damage control surgical procedures were identified as comprising surgical cricothyroidotomy, cervico-facial haemorrhage control and decompression of orbital haemorrhage through lateral canthotomy. Acute in-theatre surgical skills required within 24 hours consist of wound debridement, surgical tracheostomy, decompressive craniectomy, intracranial pressure monitor placement, temporary facial fracture stabilisation for airway management or haemorrhage control and primary globe repair. Delayed in-theatre procedures required within 5 days prior to predicted evacuation encompass facial fracture fixation, delayed lateral canthotomy, evisceration, enucleation and eyelid repair.

Conclusions

The identification of those skill sets required for deployment is in keeping with the General Medical Council’s current drive towards credentialing consultants, by which a consultant surgeon’s capabilities in particular practice areas would be defined. Limited opportunities currently exist for trainees and consultants to gain experience in the management of traumatic head, face, neck and eye injuries seen in a kinetic combat environment. Predeployment training requires that the surgical techniques described in this paper are covered and should form the curriculum of future military-specific surgical fellowships. Relevant continued professional development will be necessary to maintain required clinical competency.
Non-Markovian dynamics from band edge effects and static disorder
Authors: Lorenzo Salvatore , Ciccarello Francesco , Palma G. Massimo
Published: January 2018

It was recently shown [S. Lorenzo, F. Lombardo, F. Ciccarello and M. Palma, Sci. Rep. 7 (2017) 42729] that the presence of static disorder in a bosonic bath — whose normal modes thus become all Anderson-localized — leads to non-Markovianity in the emission of an atom weakly coupled to it (a process which in absence of disorder is fully Markovian). Here, we extend the above analysis beyond the weak-coupling regime for a finite-band bath so as to account for band edge effects. We study the interplay of these with static disorder in the emergence of non-Markovian behavior in terms of a suitable non-Markovianity measure.
Software Engineering Research at the International Conference on Software Engineering in 2016
Authors: Theisen Christopher , Dunaiski Marcel , Williams Laurie , Visser Willem
Published: January 2018

With the goal of helping software engineering researchers understand how to improve their papers, Mary Shaw presented "Writing Good Software Engineering Research Papers" in 2003. Shaw analyzed the abstracts of the papers submitted to the 2002 International Conference of Software Engineering (ICSE) to determine trends in research question type, contribution type, and validation approach. We revisit Shaw's work to see how the software engineering research community has evolved since 2002. The goal of this paper is to aid software engineering researchers in understanding trends in research question design, research question type, and validation approach by analyzing the abstracts of the papers submitted to ICSE 2016. We implemented Shaw's recommendation for replicating her study through the use of multiple coders and the calculation of inter-rater reliability and demonstrate that her approach can be repeated. Our results indicate that reviewers have increased expectations that papers have solid evaluations of the research contribution. Additionally, the 2016 results include at least 17% mining software repository (MSR) papers, a category of papers not seen in 2002. The advent of MSR papers has increased the use of generalization/characterization research questions, the production of empirical report contribution, and validation by evaluation.
The Contribution of Stemming and Semantics in Arabic Topic Segmentation
Authors: Naili Marwa , Chaibi Anja Habacha , Ghezala Henda Hajjami Ben
Published: January 2018

Topic Segmentation is one of the pillars of Natural Language Processing. Yet there is a remarkable research gap in this field, as far as the Arabic language is concerned. The purpose of this article is to improve Arabic Topic Segmentation (ATS) by inquiring into two segmenters: ArabC99 and ArabTextTiling. This study is carried out on two independent levels: the pre-processing level and the segmentation level. These levels represent the basic steps of topic segmentation. On the pre-processing level, we examine the effect of using different Arabic stemming algorithms on ATS. We find out that Light10 is more appropriate for the pre-processing step. Based on this conclusion, we proceed to the second level by proposing two Arabic segmenters called ArabC99-LS-LSA and ArabTextTiling-LS-LSA. These latter use external semantic knowledge related to the Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA). Based on the evaluation results, we notice that LSA provides improvements in this field. Hence, the main outcome of this article emphasizes the multilevel improvement of ATS based on Light10 and LSA.
Association between the Intron 8 VNTR Polymorphism of the DAT1 Gene and Crack Cocaine Addiction
Authors: Stolf Anderson R. , Müller Diana , Schuch Jaqueline B. , Akutagava-Martins Gláucia C. , Guimaraes Luciano S.P. , Szobot Claudia M. , Halpern Ricardo , Kessler Felix H.P. , Pechansky Flavio , Roman Tatiana
Published: January 2018

Background: This study aims to compare allele and genotype frequencies of a 30-bp variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) polymorphism of the DAT1 gene, located at intron 8, between adult crack cocaine users and nonaddicted individuals. Due to its involvement in drug addiction, this gene is a good candidate for molecular studies. Methods: A cross-sectional sample of 239 current adult crack abusers or dependents from in- and outpatient clinics and 211 control individuals was collected in Brazil. They were evaluated using ASRS, ASI-6, WAIS-III, and MINI assessments. DNA samples extracted from whole blood were genotyped for the intron 8 VNTR in DAT1. Results: Logistic regression analysis was performed and controlled for gender, age, ethnicity, educational level, and comorbidities of clinical interest (generalized anxiety disorder, suicide risk, major depressive episode, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder). This analysis showed that the 6R6R genotype was associated with crack cocaine addiction (OR = 1.844; CI = 1.101–3.089; p = 0.020). Conclusions: Our results are consistent with the role of DAT1 in the neurobiology of drug addiction. Nevertheless, the study of other genes, environmental factors, and their interactions is also important to gain a broader understanding of this condition.
Recurrent Intragenic Duplication within the NR5A1 Gene and Severe Proximal Hypospadias
Authors: Peycelon Matthieu , Mansour-Hendili Lamisse , Hyon Capucine , Collot Nathalie , Houang Muriel , Legendre Marie , Chabaud Maud , Bouvier Marie-Dominique , Audry Georges , Amselem Serge , Siffroi Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2018

A heterozygous intragenic duplication within the repeated area (CTGCAGCTG)×2 of the NR5A1 gene was found in a 15-year-old 46,XY DSD (disorders/differences of sex development) patient with micropenis and severe proximal hypospadias. This heterozygous duplication has already been described twice in boys with a similar phenotype, whereas a deletion of 3 amino acids at the same position in the protein SF-1 has been described in a 46,XX patient with primary ovarian failure and short stature. These data suggest that this region within the NR5A1 gene has an important role for SF-1 protein function in gonads and is a hotspot for intragenic rearrangements.
Cytologic Features of Malignant Melanoma with Osteoclast-Like Giant Cells
Authors: Jiménez-Heffernan José A. , Adrados Magdalena , Muñoz-Hernández Patricia , Fernández-Rico Paloma , Ballesteros-García Ana I. , Fraga Javier
Published: January 2018

Background: Malignant melanoma showing numerous osteoclast-like giant cells (OGCs) is an uncommon morphologic phenomenon, rarely mentioned in the cytologic literature. The few reported cases seem to have an aggressive clinical behavior. Although most findings support monocyte/macrophage differentiation, the exact nature of OGCs is not clear. Case: A 57-year-old woman presented with an inguinal lymphadenopathy. Sixteen years before, cutaneous malignant melanoma of the lower limb had been excised. Needle aspiration revealed abundant neoplastic single cells as well as numerous multinucleated OGCs. Occasional neoplastic giant cells were also present. Nuclei of OGCs were monomorphic with oval morphology and were smaller than those of melanoma cells. The immunophenotype of OGCs (S100-, HMB45-, Melan-A-, SOX10-, Ki67-, CD163-, BRAF-, CD68+, MiTF+, p16+) was the expected for reactive OGCs of monocyte/macrophage origin. The tumor has shown an aggressive behavior with further metastases to the axillary lymph nodes and oral cavity. Conclusion: Numerous OGCs are a rare and relevant finding in malignant melanoma. Their presence should not induce confusion with other tumors rich in osteoclastic cells. Since a relevant number of OGCs in melanoma may mean a more aggressive behavior, and patients may benefit from specific treatments, their presence should be mentioned in the pathologic report.
Sex-Based Assessment of Patient Presentation, Lesion Characteristics, and Treatment Modalities in Patients Undergoing Peripheral Vascular Intervention
Authors: Ramkumar Niveditta , Suckow Bjoern D. , Brown Jeremiah R. , Sedrakyan Art , Cronenwett Jack L. , Goodney Philip P.
Published: January 2018

Background—

Limited evidence suggests that women and men might be treated differently for peripheral arterial disease. This analysis evaluated sex-based differences in disease presentation and its effect on treatment modality among patients who underwent endovascular treatment for peripheral arterial disease.

Methods and Results—

Using national registry data from the Vascular Quality Initiative between 2010 and 2013, we examined patient, limb, and artery characteristics by sex through descriptive statistics. We studied 26 750 procedures performed in 23 820 patients to treat 30 545 limbs and 44 804 arteries. Women presented at an older age (69 versus 67 years;
P
<0.001) and were less often current or former smokers (72% versus 85%;
P
<0.001). Transatlantic Inter-Society Consensus classification was similar among men and women (Transatlantic Inter-Society Consensus C or D: 37% in men versus 37% in women;
P
=0.81), as was mean occlusion length (4.5 cm in men versus 4.6 cm in women;
P
=0.04), even after accounting for lesion location. Women more frequently underwent treatment for rest pain (11% in men versus 16% in women;
P
<0.001) versus claudication (59% in men versus 53% in women;
P
<0.001) or tissue loss (28% in men versus 27% in women;
P
=0.75). Treatment modality did not differ by sex but was associated with disease severity (
P
for trend <0.001) and lesion location (
P
for trend <0.001).

Conclusions—

Women undergo peripheral endovascular intervention for peripheral arterial disease at an older age with critical limb ischemia. Treatment modalities do not vary by sex but are determined by disease severity and site. Although there exist sex differences in presentation, these differences do not lead to differential treatment for women with peripheral arterial disease.
Prior Authorization Requirements for Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Inhibitors Across US Private and Public Payers
Authors: Doshi Jalpa A. , Puckett Justin T. , Parmacek Michael S. , Rader Daniel J.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9is) are an innovative treatment option for patients with familial hypercholesterolemia or clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease who require further lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. However, the high costs of these agents have spurred payers to implement utilization management policies to ensure appropriate use. We examined prior authorization (PA) requirements for PCSK9is across private and public US payers.

Methods and Results:

We conducted an analysis of 2016 formulary coverage and PA data from a large, proprietary database with information on policies governing >95% of Americans with prescription drug coverage (275.3 million lives) within 3872 plans across the 4 major insurance segments (commercial, health insurance exchange, Medicare, and Medicaid). The key measures included administrative PA criteria (prescriber specialty, number of criteria in PA policy or number of fields on PA form, requirements for medical record submission, reauthorization requirements) and clinical/diagnostic PA criteria (approved conditions, required laboratories or other tests, required concomitant therapy, step therapy requirements, continuation criteria) for each of 2 Food and Drug Administration–approved PCSK9is. Select measures (eg, number of PA criteria/fields, medical record submission requirements) were obtained for 2 comparator cardiometabolic drugs (ezetimibe and liraglutide). Between 82% and 97% of individuals were enrolled in plans implementing PA for PCSK9is (depending on insurance segment), and one third to two thirds of these enrollees faced PAs restricting PCSK9i prescribing to a specialist. For patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, diagnostic confirmation via genetic testing or meeting minimum clinical scores/criteria was also required. PA requirements were more extensive for PCSK9is as compared with the other cardiometabolic drugs (ie, contained 3×–11× the number of PA criteria or fields on PA forms and more frequently involved the submission of medical records as supporting documentation).

Conclusions:

PA requirements for PCSK9is are greater than for selected other drugs within the cardiometabolic disease area, raising concerns about whether payer policies to discourage inappropriate use may also be restricting access to these drugs in patients who need them.
Unrealized diversity in an urban rainforest: A new species of Lygosoma (Squamata: Scincidae) from western Sarawak, Malaysia (Borneo)
Authors: KARIN BENJAMIN R. , FREITAS ELYSE S. , SHONLEBEN SAMUEL , GRISMER L. LEE , BAUER AARON M. , DAS INDRANEIL
Published: January 2018

We collected two specimens of an undescribed species of Lygosoma from pitfall traps in an urban rainforest in Kuching and from the base of a forested hill in western Sarawak, East Malaysia. The new species is diagnosable from all south-east Asian congeners by morphological characters, and most closely resembles Lygosoma herberti from the Thai-Malay Peninsula. The new species shows substantial molecular divergence from its closest relatives in two protein-coding genes, one mitochondrial (ND1) and one nuclear (R35) that we sequenced for several south-east Asian congeners. We describe the new species on the basis of this distinct morphology and genetic divergence. It is the third species of Lygosoma known from Borneo, and highlights the continuing rise in lizard species diversity on the island. In addition, the discovery of this species from a small urban rainforest underscores the importance of preserving intact rainforest areas of any size in maintaining species diversity.
The Changing ‘China’ Elements in China Studies in the University of Hong Kong
Authors: Tanigaki Mariko
Published: January 2018

This article aims to give a broad picture of the development of Chinese/China Studies at the University of Hong Kong until the 1970s. Courses on Chinese were conducted from the very beginning of the establishment of the University of Hong Kong. Chinese Studies at the University of Hong Kong started with the first two migrant scholars to Hong Kong and reflected the pre-Republican style cultivated in the imperial civil service examinations. However, the curriculum changed gradually after the establishment of the Department of Chinese. Xu Dishan and Chen Junbao took the reform further. In the post-World War II period, Frederick Seguier Drake was Professor in the Department of Chinese Studies until 1964 and consolidated the Department. Its development coincided with the basic policy of neutrality pursued by the Hong Kong government with respect to the ongoing tension between the United States and the PRC. By the 1960s, it appeared that more expatriate staff were becoming interested in the study of China and Hong Kong. This led to the establishment of the Centre of Asian Studies in 1967, the first centre where Contemporary China Studies could be pursued.
An experimental study simulating the dissolution of gypsum rock
Authors: Hong Dongdong , Fan Ming , Yu Lingjie , Cao Jian
Published: January 2018

The dissolution of gypsum rock is of significance to study because it affects the formation of hydrocarbon reservoirs, cap rocks and evaporite deposits. However, the characteristics and mechanism of the dissolution process remain unclear. Here, we present data from experiments performed to address this issue. The experiments simulate various geological conditions, including different diagenetic stages of burial under different fluid types. The diagenetic stages include: 30°C and 0.3 MPa for the epidiagenetic stage; 60°C and 13 MPa for the early diagenetic stage; 100°C and 27 MPa for the middle diagenetic stage; and 150°C and 43 MPa for the late diagenetic stage. The different fluid types include pure water representing continental water, seawater, 0.3 wt.% CO2 solution representing meteoric water, and a 0.2 wt.% acetic acid solution representing organic fluid. We also carried out the experiments on limestones and dolomites, because these rocks also occur in saline water sedimentary systems with gypsum rocks. Experimental results show that lithology, fluid type and temperature–pressure conditions can all affect dissolution. In terms of lithology, gypsum rocks dissolve more easily than limestones and dolomites. Fluid type has little effect on the dissolution of gypsum rock, and gypsum is soluble in all four types of fluids. In contrast, limestones and dolomites are almost insoluble in pure water and seawater, but show clear dissolution in CO2 and acetic acid solutions. The data indicate that gypsum rock has a dissolution peak close to the early diagenetic stage. In contrast, limestones and dolomites have dissolution peaks in the CO2 solution at the early–middle diagenetic stage, and do not show a peak in the acetic acid solution under surficial temperature–pressure conditions. The dissolution rates of limestone and dolomite show different trends with increasing temperature and pressure: limestone dissolution rates decline whereas dolomite dissolution rates increase. Therefore, we infer that the physicochemical properties of a rock are important drivers of dissolution.
Feasibility study of a human papillomavirus E6 and E7 oncoprotein test for the diagnosis of cervical precancer and cancer
Authors: Zhang Jin-Jun , Cao Xin-Chun , Zheng Xiang-Yu , Wang Hai-Ying , Li Yong-Wei
Published: January 2018

Objective

To evaluate the clinical value of human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 and E7 oncoprotein (HPV E6/E7) detection in the early screening of cervical cancer.

Methods

This prospective study evaluated all patients with suspected cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) as identified by the presence of at least one positive indicator from a ThinPrep cytologic test (TCT) and/or a Hybrid Capture 2 (HC2) HPV DNA test. The levels of E6/E7 oncoproteins were determined using Western blot analysis. The diagnostic value of the HPV E6/E7 protein assay was compared with the clinical diagnosis from TCT, HC2 and the gold standard of cervical biopsy histology.

Results

A total of 450 patients were enrolled in the study and based on histological findings, 102 patients were diagnosed with CIN1 (22.7%), 241 with CIN2 (53.6%), 96 with CIN3 (21.3%) and 11 with squamous cell carcinoma (2.4%). For a diagnosis of CIN2+, although the sensitivity of the HPV E6/E7 assay was lower than HC2 (65.5% versus 96.6%, respectively), the specificity was higher (38.2% versus 5.9%, respectively). The sensitivity of the HPV E6/E7 assay was higher than TCT (65.5% versus 36.2%, respectively).

Conclusion

Measuring HPV E6/E7 oncoprotein levels is a potential new biomarker for HPV type 16.
Association of advanced glycation end products, evaluated by skin autofluorescence, with lifestyle habits in a general Japanese population
Authors: Isami Fumiyuki , West Brett J. , Nakajima Sanae , Yamagishi Sho-ichi
Published: January 2018

Objective

Accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) occurs during normal aging but markedly accelerates in people with diabetes. AGEs may play a role in various age-related disorders. Several studies have demonstrated that skin autofluorescence (SAF) reflects accumulated tissue levels of AGEs. However, very few studies have investigated SAF in the general population. The purpose of the present study was to more thoroughly evaluate the potential association among SAF, chronological age, and lifestyle habits in the general population.

Methods

A large cross-sectional survey of 10,946 Japanese volunteers aged 20 to 79 years was conducted. Volunteers completed a self-administered questionnaire and underwent SAF measurement on their dominant forearms. The associations of SAF with age and lifestyle habits were analyzed using a multiple stepwise regression analysis.

Results

Age was independently correlated with SAF. Lifestyle habits such as physical activity, nonsmoking, adequate sleep, low mental stress level, eating breakfast, and abstaining from sugary food were each independently associated with lower SAF.

Conclusions

SAF was associated with age and healthy lifestyle habits in this general Japanese population. The present study suggests that SAF measurement is a convenient tool for evaluating habitual lifestyle behaviors and may have potential for preventative health education.
Analysis of Red Blood Cell Aggregation in Cardio-Pulmonary Bypass (CPB) Surgery
Authors: Graaff R. , Gu Y.J. , Boonstra P.W. , Van Oeveren W. , Rakhorst G.
Published: January 2018

Not much is known about red cell aggregation during cardio-pulmonary bypass surgery (CPB). Blood samples from 19 patients undergoing CPB were anticoagulated with EDTA. Hematocrit was adjusted to 40%. A red blood cell aggregometer (LORCA) measured changes in light reflection from each blood sample after cessation of the rotation, and calculated an aggregation index (AI). Reflection measurements were stored. Because LORCA software failed for 87 of 171 samples, we developed new software, and applied it to the stored reflection measurements. This software failed only in 7 out of 171 cases and showed that all LORCA failures occurred for AI < 40%. The new calculations revealed that the aggregation index significantly decreased from 46.6 ± 10.1 (mean ± standard deviation) baseline to 22.8 ± 8.3 at the end of CPB and recovered to 37.1 ± 13.5 at day 1. It is concluded that the new software can be used to study decreased red cell aggregation during CPB.
Bilirubin Removal from Albumin - Containing Solution by Adsorption on Polymer Resin
Authors: Annesini M.C. , Di Paola L. , Marrelli L. , Piemonte V. , Turchetti L.
Published: January 2018

Adsorption equilibrium of bilirubin onto polymeric resins is studied. Solutions containing albumin are used in order to simulate the behavior of systems for removal of albumin-bound substances from blood, serum or dialysis fluids. The effect of albumin pre-loading on the resin is also analysed. Results are explained by a chemically based model that accounts for binding reaction between albumin and bilirubin in the liquid phase.

Thermodynamic equilibria and physical models are essential tools for designing adsorption columns aimed at detoxification treatments.
Decreased Bacterial Adhesion to Surface-Treated Titanium
Authors: Del Curto B. , Brunella M.F. , Giordano C. , Pedeferri M.P. , Valtulina V , Visai L , Cigada A.
Published: January 2018

Osteointegrative dental implants are widely used in implantology for their well-known excellent performance once implanted in the host.

Remarkable bacterial colonization along the transgingival region may result in a progressive loss of adhesion at gum-implant interface and an increase of the bone area exposed to pathogens. This phenomenon may negatively effect the osteointegration process and cause, in the most severe cases, implant failure. The presence of bacteria at implant site affect the growth of new bone tissue and consequently, the achievement of a mechanically stable bone-implant interface, key parameters for a suitable implant osteointegration.

In the present work, a novel surface treatment has been developed and optimized in order to convert the amorphous titanium oxide in a crystalline layer enriched in anatase capable of providing not only antibacterial properties but also of stimulating the precipitation of apatite when placed in simulated body fluid. The collected data have shown that the tested treatment results in a crystalline anatase-type titanium oxide layer able to provide a remarkable decrease in bacterial attachment without negatively effecting cell metabolic activity.

In conclusion, the surface modification treatment analyzed in the present study might be an elegant way to reduce the risk of bacterial adhesion and increase the lifetime of the transgingival component in the osteointegrated dental implant.