bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The plasma Epstein–Barr virus DNA level guides precision treatment for nasopharyngeal carcinoma in the intensity-modulated radiotherapy era: a large population-based cohort study from an endemic area
Authors: Liang Hu , Lv Xing , Wang Lin , Wu Yi-Shan , Sun Rui , Ye Yan-Fang , Ke Liang-Ru , Yang Qin , Yu Ya-Hui , Qiu Wen-Ze , Liu Guo-Ying , Huang Xin-Jun , Li Wang-Zhong , Lv Shu-Hui , Guo Xiang , Xiang Yan-Qun , Xia Wei-Xiong
Published: July 2018

Background:

In the intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) era, the survival benefit of concurrent chemotherapy for locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA-NPC) remains undetermined. This study aimed to evaluate the benefits of IMRT with concurrent chemotherapy compared with IMRT alone for LA-NPC patients with different plasma Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA levels.

Methods:

Patients were identified from a prospectively maintained database in an endemic area between November 2002 and December 2013. Cox proportional hazards models, propensity score matching, and inverse probability weighting models were established for survival analysis. Stratification analysis was performed based on interaction effects analysis. Finally, sensitivity analysis was performed considering unmeasured confounders.

Results:

A total of 1357 eligible patients were enrolled (median follow up 62.4 months; range 3.5–155.8 months). No significant survival differences were observed between groups in the entire cohort. Notably, a significant interaction effect was observed between treatment regimens and EBV DNA levels. In patients with high EBV DNA levels (>4000 copies/ml), all three models showed that IMRT with concurrent chemotherapy significantly improved overall survival [hazard ratio (HR) 2.521, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.218–5.216], disease-free survival (HR 2.168, 95% CI 1.349–3.483), and distant metastasis-free survival (HR 2.331, 95% CI 1.194–4.551) compared with IMRT alone. No differences were found in patients with low EBV DNA levels. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results.

Conclusion:

In the IMRT era, concurrent chemotherapy treatment of LA-NPC patients with high EBV DNA levels is reasonable. However, the optimal regimen for LA-NPC patients with low EBV DNA levels needs further validation in randomized clinical trials.
Attentional, interpretation and memory biases for sensory-pain words in individuals with chronic headache
Authors: Schoth Daniel E , Beaney Rebecca , Broadbent Philippa , Zhang Jin , Liossi Christina
Published: July 2018

Introduction:

Cognitive biases in attention, interpretation and less consistently memory have been observed in individuals with chronic pain and play a critical role in the onset and maintenance of chronic pain. Despite operating in combination cognitive biases are typically explored in isolation.

Aim:

The primary aim of this study was to explore attentional, interpretation and memory biases and their interrelationship in individuals with chronic headache.

Methods:

Twenty-eight participants with chronic headache and 34 healthy controls completed paradigms assessing attentional, interpretation and memory biases with ambiguous sensory-pain and neutral words.

Results:

Individuals with chronic pain showed significantly greater pain-related attentional and interpretation biases relative to controls, with no differences in memory bias. No significant correlation was found between any of the three forms of cognitive bias assessed.

Discussion and conclusion:

The clinical implications of cognitive biases in individuals with chronic pain remain to be fully explored, although one avenue for future research would be specific investigation of the implications of biased interpretations considering the consistency of results found across the literature for this form of bias.
Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection in a 72-year-old woman: A case report
Authors: da Silveira Lucas Molinari Veloso , Gus Miguel , Torres Felipe Soares , Fuchs Flávio Danni , Fuchs Sandra Costa
Published: July 2018

Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection is a congenital abnormality characterized by drainage of one or more, but not all, pulmonary veins to the right atrium or to one of the systemic veins. This pathology has low prevalence, although it probably is underestimated and is rarely diagnosed in adults. This report describes a case of a 72-year-old woman with long-term worsening shortness of breath and elevated pulmonary artery systolic pressure in which Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection was occasionally diagnosed through imaging methods.
Short‐term histological evaluations after achieving a sustained virologic response to direct‐acting antiviral treatment for chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Enomoto Masaru , Ikura Yoshihiro , Tamori Akihiro , Kozuka Ritsuzo , Motoyama Hiroyuki , Kawamura Etsushi , Hagihara Atsushi , Fujii Hideki , Uchida-Kobayashi Sawako , Morikawa Hiroyasu , Murakami Yoshiki , Kawada Norifumi
Published: July 2018

Background

Interferon‐free, direct‐acting antiviral treatments can result in a sustained virologic response in nearly 100% of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to evaluate histological improvement after achieving a sustained virologic response to direct‐acting antiviral treatments in patients with chronic hepatitis C.

Methods

Among 691 patients with chronic hepatitis C who achieved a sustained virologic response to direct‐acting antivirals, 51 underwent liver biopsy 41 ± 20 weeks after the end of treatment despite normal transaminase levels. In 20 patients, liver biopsy specimens obtained a median of 1.2 years before the start of treatment were available.

Results

Among the 51 patients who underwent post‐sustained virologic response biopsies, the grade of inflammation was A0 in 18 patients, A1 in 24, A2 in eight, and A3 in one; the stage of fibrosis was F0 in three patients, F1 in 20, F2 in 15, F3 in nine, and F4 in four. Among the nine post‐sustained virologic response biopsy specimens with moderate‐to‐severe inflammation (≥A2), four showed S1‐to‐S3 steatosis (>5% of hepatocytes affected). In the 20 paired biopsy specimens, the inflammation grade significantly regressed (p = 0.0043), but the fibrosis stage did not (p = 0.45). Histological improvement, defined as a ≥ 2‐point decrease in the Knodell inflammatory score and no worsening of the fibrosis, was found in 11 (55%) patients. The iron accumulation had significantly regressed (p = 0.0093), but the steatosis had not (p = 0.10).

Conclusions

Even if transaminases become normal after obtaining a sustained virologic response, significant histological inflammation of unknown cause was found in some patients. Additionally, improvement in liver fibrosis was not evident in the short term.
Refugee or Migrant Crisis? Labels, Perceived Agency, and Sentiment Polarity in Online Discussions
Authors: Lee Ju-Sung , Nerghes Adina
Published: July 2018

In recent years, increasing attention has been dedicated to the hazardous and volatile situation in the Middle East, a crisis which has pushed many to flee their countries and seek refuge in neighboring countries or in Europe. In describing or discussing these tragic events, labels such as “European migrant crisis” and “European refugee crisis” started being widely used by the media, politicians, and the online world alike. The use of such labels has the potential to dictate the ways in which displaced people are received and perceived. With this study, we investigate label use in social media (specifically YouTube), the emergent patterns of labeling that can cause further disaffection and tension or elicit sympathy, and the sentiments associated with the different labels. Our findings suggest that migration issues are being framed not only through labels characterizing the crisis but also by their describing the individuals themselves. Using topic modeling and sentiment analysis jointly, our study offers valuable insights into the direction of public sentiment and the nature of discussions surrounding this significant societal crisis, as well as the nature of online opinion sharing. We conclude by proposing a four-dimensional model of label interpretation in relation to sentiment—that accounts for perceived agency, economic cost, permanence, and threat, and identifies threat and agency to be most impactful. This perspective reveals important influential aspects of labels and frames that may shape online public opinion and alter attitudes toward those directly affected by the crisis.
Senescent Changes in Sensitivity to Binaural Temporal Fine Structure
Authors: Füllgrabe Christian , Sęk Aleksander P. , Moore Brian C. J.
Published: July 2018

Differences in the temporal fine structure (TFS) of sounds at the two ears are used for sound localization and for the perceptual analysis of complex auditory scenes. The ability to process this binaural TFS information is poorer for older than for younger participants, and this may contribute to age-related declines in the ability to understand speech in noisy situations. However, it is unclear how sensitivity to binaural TFS changes across the older age range. This article presents data for a test of binaural sensitivity to TFS, the “TFS-adaptive frequency” (AF) test, for 118 listeners aged 60 to 96 years with normal or near-normal low-frequency hearing, but a variety of patterns of hearing loss at higher frequencies. TFS-AF scores were significantly lower (i.e., poorer) than those for young adults. On average, scores decreased by about 162 Hz for each 10-year increase in age over the range 60 to 85 years. Individual variability increased with increasing age. Scores also declined as low-frequency audiometric thresholds worsened. The results illustrate the range of scores that can be obtained as a function of age and may be useful for the diagnosis and management of age-related hearing difficulties.
Traveling across Racial Borders: TripAdvisor and the Discursive Strategies Businesses Use to Deny Racism
Authors: Dalmage Heather M.
Published: July 2018

Travel and leisure activities can bring many rewards, and yet for those deemed “racialized Others,” these same activities can be fraught with anxiety and tension. As in all aspects of society, racism mediates the rewards of travel and leisure. Decisions about when and how to confront racism are central in the lives of those considered racialized Others. Given a wish to de-escalate racist situations and respond later, some individuals are using online platforms to call out racism. Using a digital discourse analysis, the author explores TripAdvisor, as a site and context in which racial confrontation happens. Interracial couples facing discrimination during leisure activities may choose to confront businesses after the fact through an online platform. When businesses respond, they follow a pattern that defensively separates “service” from racism and ultimately denies racism entirely. The author begins with an analysis of the TripAdvisor platform, including the affordances and constraints. Next, the author uses a digital discourse analysis of the review-response interaction. As with other forms of colorblind racism, a close read of the content is needed to highlight racist practices. The author shows that the structure of TripAdvisor, including the quantitative ratings and rankings and written reviews and responses, works to legitimize the platform and build trust across a Eurocentric global community. This sense of community and trust is denied and remains elusive to those suffering as a result of racist abuse.
The Social Construction of “Emerging Elders”: Implications for Age-Friendly Community Assessments
Authors: Fields Noelle L. , Adorno Gail , Felderhoff Brandi , Parekh, MSW Rupal , Miller, MSW Vivian , Magruder Karen , Rogers Kellie
Published: July 2018

The term “emerging elders” has surfaced in age-friendly community assessment tools to denote a subset of older adults; however, limited guidance is provided on its application to aging populations. The goal of this study was to develop a data-driven conceptualization of “emerging elders” as part of an age-friendly community assessment. Adults, aged 55 years and above, were asked about their subjective meaning of “emerging elder” within the context of a larger study of aging well in a large U.S. metropolitan city. Using inductive and deductive methods, the researchers analyzed qualitative data ( N = 38) collected from individual interviews with homebound older adults ( n = 15) and participants of three focus groups ( n = 23). Four themes suggest that emerging elderhood is related to chronological age, functional ability, transitions, and self-identity. Findings suggest that the term emerging elderhood may foster negative images of older adults consistent with Western cultural discourse, despite the positive connotations associated with “emerging elder” in indigenous and spiritual communities. Findings underscore the need to further refine age-friendly community assessments that take into account the social constructions ascribed to older adults and need for strategies to engage emerging elders in future research of age-friendly communities.
Elasticity at the Canada–US border: Jurisdiction, rights, accountability
Authors: Gilbert Emily
Published: July 2018

Borders are being stretched as they are deterritorialized, reterritorialized and extra-territorialized. But borders are not only being relocated elsewhere: just as they are extended they are also snapped back into place in order to limit the rights of travellers and migrants, and to deny the accountability of border officials. This elasticity—expansion but also contraction—is the focus of this paper, with particular attention to the Canada–US border with respect to how legal jurisdiction is being reworked territorially, and the ways that the law gets attached to particular bodies. Three contemporary case studies are examined: the Safe Third Country Agreement, the Shiprider program, and the expansion of preclearance programs. While each of these cases is quite different in that they deal with asylum seekers, cross-border policing, and extra-territorial customs programs, together they illustrate how borders are being made elastic, and with what political implications.
Clinical Epigenetic Therapies Disrupt Sex Chromosome Dosage Compensation in Human Female Cells
Authors: Laskowski Agnieszka I. , Fanslow Danielle A. , Smith Erica D. , Kosak Steven T.
Published: July 2018

Sex chromosome gene dosage compensation is required to ensure equivalent levels of X-linked gene expression between males (46, XY) and females (46, XX). To achieve similar expression, X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) is initiated in female cells during early stages of embryogenesis. Within each cell, either the maternal or paternal X chromosome is selected for whole chromosome transcriptional silencing, which is initiated and maintained by epigenetic and chromatin conformation mechanisms. With the emergence of small-molecule epigenetic inhibitors for the treatment of disease, such as cancer, the epigenetic mechanism underlying XCI may be inadvertently targeted. Here, we test 2 small-molecule epigenetic inhibitors being used clinically, GSK126 (a histone H3 lysine 27 methyltransferase inhibitor) and suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (a histone deacetylase inhibitor), on their effects of the inactive X (Xi) in healthy human female fibroblasts. The combination of these modifiers, at subcancer therapeutic levels, leads to the inability to detect the repressive H3K27me3 modification characteristic of XCI in the majority of the cells. Importantly, genes positioned near the X-inactivation center ( Xic), where inactivation is initiated, exhibit robust expression with treatment of the inhibitors, while genes located near the distal ends of the X chromosome intriguingly exhibit significant downregulation. These results demonstrate that small-molecule epigenetic inhibitors can have profound consequences on XCI in human cells, and they underscore the importance of considering gender when developing and clinically testing small-molecule epigenetic inhibitors, in particular those that target the well-characterized mechanisms of X inactivation.
Inheritance of Chromosomes, Sex Determination, and the Human Genome
Authors: Shetty Nirmalchandra K.
Published: July 2018

Who is the determining factor for the sex of the offspring—mother, father, or both parents? This fundamental hypothesis proposes a new model of sex determination, challenging the existing dogma that the male Y chromosome of the father is the sole determinant of the sex of the offspring. According to modern science, the 3 X chromosomes (male XY and female XX) are assumed to be similar, and the sex of the offspring is determined after the zygote is formed. In contrast to this, the new hypothesis based on theoretical research proposes that the 3 X chromosomes can be differentiated, based on the presence of Barr bodies. The first X in female XX chromosomes and X in male XY chromosomes are similar as they lack Barr body and are hereby denoted as ‘X’ and referred to as ancestral chromosomes. The second X chromosome in the female cells which is a Barr body, denoted as X, is different. This X chromosome along with the Y chromosome are referred to as parental chromosomes. Sperm with a Y chromosome can only fuse with an ovum containing the ‘X’ chromosome. Similarly, sperm with the ‘X’ chromosome can only fuse with an ovum containing the X chromosome. Cell biology models of gametogenesis and fertilization were simulated with the new hypothesis model and assessed. Only chromosomes that participated in recombination could unite to form the zygote. This resulted in a paradigm shift in our understanding of sex determination, as both parents were found to be equally responsible for determining the sex of the offspring. The gender of the offspring is determined during the prezygotic stage itself and is dependent on natural selection. A new dimension has been given to inheritance of chromosomes. This new model also presents a new nomenclature for pedigree charts. This work of serendipity may contribute to future research in cell biology, gender studies, genome analysis, and genetic disorders including cancer.
Extended-spectrum β-lactamase prevalence and virulence factor characterization of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli responsible for acute diarrhea in Nepal from 2001 to 2016
Authors: Margulieux Katie R. , Srijan Apichai , Ruekit Sirigade , Nobthai Panida , Poramathikul Kamonporn , Pandey Prativa , Serichantalergs Oralak , Shrestha Sanjaya K. , Bodhidatta Ladaporn , Swierczewski Brett E.
Published: July 2018

Background

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacterial species are an increasingly dangerous public health threat, and are now endemic in many areas of South Asia. However, there are a lack of comprehensive data from many countries in this region determining historic and current MDR prevalence. Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is a leading cause of both acute infant diarrhea and traveler’s diarrhea in Nepal. The MDR prevalence and associated resistance mechanisms of ETEC isolates responsible for enteric infections in Nepal are largely unknown.

Methods

A total of 265 ETEC isolates were obtained from acute diarrheal samples (263/265) or patient control samples (2/265) at traveler’s clinics or regional hospitals in Nepal from 2001 to 2016. Isolates were screened for antibiotic resistance, to include extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production, via the Microscan Automated Microbiology System. ETEC virulence factors, specifically enterotoxins and colonization factors (CFs), were detected using multiplex PCR, and prevalence in the total isolate population was compared to ESBL-positive isolates. ESBL-positive isolates were assessed using multiplex PCR for genetic markers potentially responsible for observed resistance.

Results

A total of 118/265 (44.5%) ETEC isolates demonstrated resistance to ≥2 antibiotics. ESBL-positive phenotypes were detected in 40/265 isolates, with isolates from 2008, 2013, 2014, and 2016 demonstrating ESBL prevalence rates of 1.5, 34.5, 31.2, and 35.0% respectively. No difference was observed in overall enterotoxin characterization between the total ETEC and ESBL-positive populations. The CFs CS2 (13.6%), CS3 (25.3%), CS6 (30.2%), and CS21 (62.6%) were the most prevalent in the total ETEC population. The ESBL-positive ETEC isolates exhibited a higher association trend with the CFs CS2 (37.5%), CS3 (35%), CS6 (42.5%), and CS21 (67.5%). The primary ESBL gene identified was blaCTX-M-15 (80%), followed by blaSHV-12 (20%) and blaCTX-M-14 (2.5%). The beta-lactamase genes blaTEM-1 (40%) and blaCMY-2 (2.5%) were also identified. It was determined that 42.5% of the ESBL-positive isolates carried multiple resistance genes.

Conclusion

Over 30% of ETEC isolates collected post-2013 and evaluated in this study demonstrated ESBL resistance. Persistent surveillance and characterization of enteric ETEC isolates are vital for tracking the community presence of MDR bacterial species in order to recommend effective treatment strategies and help mitigate the spread of resistant pathogens.
Sexual boundary violations: victims, perpetrators and risk reduction
Authors: Hook John , Devereux Dawn
Published: July 2018

Sexual boundary violations by healthcare professionals is a subject that has largely been ignored in the UK. There has been little research into the field. It is rarely taught on professional training courses and practitioners appear to know very little about it. The history of sexual boundary violations is littered with failures to notice, failures to report and inadequate justice for victims and perpetrators alike. Perpetrators are commonly assumed to be predators. Given the many widely reported recent events in our media of both predatory and other sexual offenders, we believe it is timely for all healthcare and other professions working with vulnerable people to take the problem seriously, to provide appropriate services for victims, evaluation and assessment of perpetrators, and sanctions that fit the crime in order to regain public trust.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

•

Develop greater understanding of the problem of sexual boundary violations by professionals

•

Be able to manage the care of a patient who has been the victim of a sexual boundary violation

•

Understand factors in professionals that may lead to a sexual boundary violation

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

None.
Defining a mood stabiliser: novel framework for research and clinical practice
Authors: Malhi Gin S. , Porter Richard , Irwin Lauren , Hamilton Amber , Morris Grace , Bassett Darryl , Baune Bernhard T. , Boyce Philip , Hopwood Malcolm J. , Mulder Roger , Parker Gordon , Mannie Zola , Outhred Tim , Das Pritha , Singh Ajeet B.
Published: July 2018

The term ‘mood stabiliser’ is ill-defined and lacks clinical utility. We propose a framework to evaluate medications and effectively communicate their mood stabilising properties – their acute and prophylactic efficacy across the domains of mania and depression. The standardised framework provides a common definition to facilitate research and clinical practice.

Declaration of interest

The Treatment Algorithm Group (TAG) was supported logistically by Servier who provided financial assistance with travel and accommodation for those TAG members travelling interstate or overseas to attend the meeting in Sydney (held on 18 November 2017). None of the committee were paid to participate in this project and Servier have not had any input into the content, format or outputs from this project.
The benefits of antidepressants: news or fake news?
Authors: Parker Gordon
Published: July 2018

Although antidepressant drugs are commonly effective, several meta-analyses of antidepressant drug trials undertaken decades after their introduction suggested that they were effectively acting as placebos. A recent meta-analysis concluded that they were effective. Both conclusions have been widely taken up by the media. This paper seeks to explain the disconnect.

Declaration of interest

None.
Cisplatin-Based First-Line Treatment of Elderly Patients With Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Joint Analysis of MILES-3 and MILES-4 Phase III Trials
Authors: Gridelli Cesare , Morabito Alessandro , Cavanna Luigi , Luciani Andrea , Maione Paolo , Bonanno Laura , Filipazzi Virginio , Leo Silvana , Cinieri Saverio , Ciardiello Fortunato , Burgio Marco Angelo , Bilancia Domenico , Cortinovis Diego , Rosetti Francesco , Bianco Roberto , Gebbia Vittorio , Artioli Fabrizio , Bordonaro Roberto , Fregoni Vittorio , Mencoboni Manlio , Nelli Fabrizio , Riccardi Ferdinando , di Isernia Giuditta , Costanzo Raffaele , Rocco Gaetano , Daniele Gennaro , Signoriello Simona , Piccirillo Maria Carmela , Gallo Ciro , Perrone Francesco
Published: July 2018

Purpose

To test the efficacy of adding cisplatin to first-line treatment for elderly patients with advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) within a combined analysis of two parallel phase III trials, MILES-3 and MILES-4.

Patients and Methods

Patients with advanced NSCLC who were older than age 70 years with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 to 1 were randomly assigned to gemcitabine or pemetrexed, without or with cisplatin. In each trial, 382 events were required to detect a hazard ratio (HR) of death of 0.75, with 80% power and two-tailed α of .05. Trials were closed prematurely because of slow accrual, but the joint database allowed us to analyze the efficacy of cisplatin on the basis of intention-to-treat and adjusted by trial, histotype, non-platinum companion drug, stage, performance status, sex, age, and size of the study center.

Results

From March 2011 to August 2016, 531 patients (MILES-3, 299; MILES-4, 232) were assigned to gemcitabine or pemetrexed without (n = 268) or with cisplatin (n = 263). Median age was 75 years, 79% were male, and 70% had nonsquamous histology. At a median 2-year follow-up, 384 deaths and 448 progression-free survival events were recorded. Overall survival was not significantly prolonged with cisplatin (HR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.70 to 1.05; P = .14) and global health status score of quality of life was not improved, whereas progression-free survival (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.63 to 0.92; P = .005) and objective response rate (15.5% v 8.5%; P = .02) were significantly better. Significantly more severe hematologic toxicity, fatigue, and anorexia were found with cisplatin.

Conclusion

The addition of cisplatin to single-agent chemotherapy does not significantly prolong overall survival, and it does not improve global health status score of quality of life in elderly patients with advanced NSCLC.
Hyperosmolar Duodenal Saline Infusion Lowers Circulating Ghrelin and Stimulates Intestinal Hormone Release in Young Men
Authors: Veedfald Simon , Wu Tongzhi , Bound Michelle , Grivell Jacqueline , Hartmann Bolette , Rehfeld Jens F , Deacon Carolyn F , Horowitz Michael , Holst Jens J , Rayner Christopher K
Published: July 2018

Context

The mechanisms regulating the postprandial suppression of ghrelin secretion remain unclear, but recent observations in rats indicate that an increase in duodenal osmolarity is associated with a reduction in ghrelin levels. Several hormones have been implicated in the regulation of ghrelin.

Objective

We hypothesized that intraduodenal infusion of a hyperosmolar solution would lower plasma ghrelin concentrations.

Design, Setting, Participants, and Interventions

Eighteen healthy young men were studied after an overnight fast on two occasions in a randomized double-blinded fashion. A nasoduodenal catheter was positioned and isoosmolar (300 mOsm/L) or hyperosmolar (1500 mOsm/L) saline was infused intraduodenally (4 mL/min, t = 0 to 45 minutes). Venous blood was sampled at t = −45, −30, −15, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120, and 180 minutes.

Main Outcome Measures

Plasma concentrations of ghrelin, glucagonlike peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), cholecystokinin (CCK), glucagon, pancreatic polypeptide (PP), neurotensin (NT), peptide YY (PYY), motilin, and glucose.

Results

Ghrelin concentrations were suppressed with hyperosmolar when compared with isoosmolar saline, and remained lower until t = 180 minutes. CCK, NT, GLP-1, PYY, and glucagon all increased during hyperosmolar, but not isoosmolar, saline infusion (P < 0.01 for all), whereas GIP, PP, and motilin levels were not affected by either infusion.

Conclusions

Plasma ghrelin concentrations are lowered, whereas CCK, GLP-1, PYY, NT, and glucagon concentrations are augmented, by hyperosmolar duodenal content in healthy individuals. These observations have implications for the evaluation of studies comparing the effects of different types and loads of nutrients and chemicals on gut hormone secretion.
Stress granule formation is induced by a threshold temperature rather than a temperature difference in Arabidopsis
Authors: Hamada Takahiro , Yako Mako , Minegishi Marina , Sato Mayuko , Kamei Yasuhiro , Yanagawa Yuki , Toyooka Kiminori , Watanabe Yuichiro , Hara-Nishimura Ikuko
Published: July 2018

Stress granules, a type of cytoplasmic RNA granule in eukaryotic cells, are induced in response to various environmental stresses, including high temperature. However, how high temperatures induce the formation of these stress granules in plant cells is largely unknown. Here, we characterized the process of stress granule formation in Arabidopsis thaliana by combining live imaging and electron microscopy analysis. In seedlings grown at 22°C, stress granule formation was induced at temperatures above a critical threshold level of 34°C in the absence of transpiration. The threshold temperature was the same, regardless of whether the seedlings were grown at 22°C or 4°C. High-resolution live imaging microscopy revealed that stress granule formation is not correlated with the sizes of pre-existing RNA processing bodies (P-bodies) but that the two structures often associated rapidly. Immunoelectron microscopy revealed a previously unidentified characteristic of the fine structures of Arabidopsis stress granules and P-bodies: the lack of ribosomes and the presence of characteristic electron-dense globular and filamentous structures. These results provide new insights into the universal nature of stress granules in eukaryotic cells.
Predicting the dose absorbed by organs at risk during intensity modulated radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Pang Haowen , Sun Xiaoyang , Yang Bo , Wu Jingbo
Published: July 2018

Objective:

To develop a model for predicting the dose absorbed by organ at risk (OAR) during intensity modulated radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods:

55 patients underwent intensity modulated radiation therapy for NPC. The OARs were divided into several suborgans, and SPSS software was used to evaluate multiple linear method for fitting the normalized volume for each suborgan, normalized mean dose (Dmean) Dnm (Dnm = Dmean/Dprescription), and normalized D10%−D100% values Dn10%  −  n100%(Dn10%−n100% = D10%−D100%/Dprescription) for each OAR. Based on the Matlab software, the predicted Dn10%−n100% value was fitted to obtain the predicted DVH curve.

Results:

The multiple linear fitting formulas revealed significant results for the oral cavity Dn100% (p = 0.017), the parotid gland Dn100% (p = 0.001), and the remaining OAR (all p < 0.0001). The correlation coefficients and p values indicated that the fitting formula was a good fit. The p values for the White test show that the prediction model is robust. This method was successfully used for verification cases.

Conclusion:

The present study provided a simple and effective model for predicting the dose absorbed by OAR for NPC.

Advances in knowledge:

This method is a relatively simple mathematical model, just use prescription dose and V0–Vn to predict the Dmean and D10%−100%, which predict does not require buying new modules of treatment planning software or extracting the distance of each sampling point of the OAR with the dose information.
Pictorial review: non-anatomical cardiovascular gas: causes, appearances and consequences
Authors: Mak Sze Mun , Gopalan Deepa
Published: July 2018

Gas does not occur naturally in the cardiovascular system, although it is not unusual to identify it on imaging. The true incidence is difficult to know as asymptomatic cases are rarely recorded. In iatrogenic instance, this occurs when atmospheric air enters the cardiovascular system from a high to low pressure, or when gas is forcibly injected into a vessel. The source of air must be promptly identified and treatment must be expedited to reduce morbidity and mortality. This pictorial review aims to give an overview of the causes (with particular emphasis on the conditions that may be encountered by a Radiologist), appearances of cardiovascular gas, and any subsequent treatment.
GEOLOGICAL STRUCTURE OF THE WIDER AREA OF AEGIALIA AND KALAVRYTA (NORTH PELOPONNESUS)
Authors: Τρίκολας Κ. , Αλεξούλη-Λειβαδίτη A.
Published: July 2018

The alpine nappe sequence of the wider area of Aegialia and Kalavryta (Aegion sheet) is comprised of 3 alpine units, which from the lower to the upper are: (i) Arna unit, which consists of phyllites and quartzite series, (ii) Tripolis unit that consists of Tyros beds, neritic carbonate sequence and flysch and (iii) Pindos, unit which is represented with all its formations from the Triassic clastic formation at the bottom up to the Eocene flysch at the top. Pindos unit is intensively folded and tectonized forming successive thrusts with direction from east to west. The post alpine deposits are distinguished to (i) fluvial, (ii) fluvial-lacustrine, (iii) lacustrine, (iv) fan delta and (v) marine formations. The lacustrine and the fluvial formations outcrop at the south, central and eastern part of the study area, whereas the fluvial-lacustrine formations, the fan delta deposits and the marine deposits outcrop at the northern part. In the study area normal listric and oblique slip faults of great length have been observed striking WNW-ESE and NW-SE. Also, normal, oblique-slip and strike-slip faults have been observed striking NE-SWto N-S, which were which are younger than the former ones (WNWESE). The tectonic structure of the study area is characterized by the presence of horsts, grabens and blocks, which have been tilted towards SE, and S.
MAGMATIC EMPLACEMENT OF OPHIOLITES IN NORTHERN GREECE
Authors: Brunn J. H. , Argyriadis I. , Braud J.
Published: July 2018

Most of the folded mountain ranges of our planet include masses of ophiolites. In accordance with the today 's predominant theory this is explained by obduction of ocean floor masses. Since 1956 Professor Brunn formulated the theory of undersea extrusion of mantel material. Our recent research in the areas of Vourinos, Vermion and Pindos have lead us to the conclusion that: The ophiolites are in normal, no tectonic contact with their supporting layers. This contact shows a typical thermal transformation with layers of homstein, amphibolites and granatites.The directly beneath underlaying series shows progressive and clear evolution from a carbonate platform into a subsea environment with increasing volcanic influences including pillow lava flows. As a conclusion of these observations we can state that we should not automatically interprete ophiolitic findings of the folded ranges to obduction of oceanic floor material. Probably an early compression of the future orogenic areas leads to the creation of rifts with obligue direction to the main axe of compression. Through these rifts hot ultrabasic magma flowed over the sea floor which crystalises in a differencial process.
EVIDENCES OF ACTIVE FAULTING IN THRACE REGION (NORTHEASTERN GREECE)
Authors: Rondoyanni Th. , Georgiou Ch. , Galanakis D. , Kourouzidis M.
Published: July 2018

Active oblique to strike-slip faults were identified in southern Thrace (northeastern Greece), on the basis of field observations, geological mapping, analysis of geometrical and dynamic characteristics of recent tectonic structures as well as evaluation of their seismic potential. The seismic activity refers mainly to strong earthquakes occurring under the sea, while a minor number of seismic epicenters have been registered on land. According to the historic and recent data, most seismic destructions in this region are due to the influence of the North Anatolian Fault and North Aegean Trough system. The diachronic activity of several faults and the changes in the movement type from clearly normal to oblique-normal or strike-slip, have left clear signs on the existing polished fault planes. Among the numerous faults determined in Thrace, some of them can be characterized as active, according to their geological and morphotectonic characteristics. Taking in to account the faults length, the specific seismotectonic conditions prevailing over the Hellenic territory and the existed empirical relationships, the maximum displacement in case of seismic reactivation was estimated.
CONTRASTING GEOMETRY BETWEEN ALPINE AND LATE- TO POSTALPINE TECTONIC STRUCTURES IN ANAFI ISLAND (CYCLADES)
Authors: Soukis Konstantinos I. , Papanikolaou Demetrios J.
Published: July 2018

A significant change is observed in the geometry of the major faults in Anafi Island from Ν to NE dip in the alpine structures to S to SW dip in the late to post-alpine. Several thrust faults dipping to the NE preserved at the central-eastern part of the island form a nappe pile of Cretaceous HT/LP metamorphic units emplaced over a parautochthonous nonmetamorphic flysch of partly Eocene age without development of metamorphic structures (deformation phase Di). The development of detachment normal faults dipping to the SW (deformation phase D2) deformed the previous thrusts together with the post alpine continental sedimentary sequence of Miocene age, occurring in the northern and western part of Anafi. Asymmetric to the SW folds are observed at the lower part of the Upper Miocene sediments as well as numerous shear sense indicators along the undulating surface of the detachment above the underlying alpine units. The deformation weakens towards the upper part of the Upper Miocene sediments. An intensely sheared molassic type formation of probable ?Oligocene-Early Miocene age was distinguished between the alpine units and the detached Upper Miocene sediments. High angle normal faults dipping to the SW deform all previous structures (D3). The extensional deformation phases D2 and D3 are related to the opening of the Cretan backarc basin during Tortonian - Early Pliocene.
BEHAVIOUR OF THE "ATHENIAN SCHIST" IN EXCAVATION BY AN OPEN FACE SHIELD BORING MACHINE. EXTENSION LINE TO PERISTERI OF THE METROPOLITAN RAILWAY OF ATHENS.
Authors: Μαρίνος Π. , Μαρίνος Β. , Στούμπος Γ. , Νόβακ M. , Κορκάρης K. , Μπενίση M.
Published: July 2018

The excavation of the Metropolitan Railway of Athens is being opening mainly through the system of "Athenian Schist" which basically is constituted by a sequence of schists and metasandstones and presents high heterogeneity and tectonic disturbance due to faults and shear zones. The excavation is either mechanized or conventional. This paper is focused on the extension line to Peristeri, where an OFS (Open Face Shield) ΤΒΜ was used. This machine is effective in controlling any instabilities in fair quality rock mass, but not when poor quality rock masses are present where the stand-up time is limited. In such cases immediate support of the face or even improvement of the quality of the material is necessary. In this paper a specific classification of "Athenian Schist" is described in order to provide predictions for the behaviour of the rock masses under the conditions of an excavation with an OFS and, to access the risks but also the need of remedial measures
BEHAVIOR OF PINDOS LIMESTONE DURING HIGH SLOPE EXCAVATION. AN APPROACH TO INTERPRETE AND SIMULATE THE BEHAVIOR OF THE FORMATION USING SLOPE STABILTY ANALYSIS METHODS
Authors: Σφέικος A. , Στιμάρατζης Θ. , Κίλιας A. , Χρηστάρας Β.
Published: July 2018

The Acheloos river diversion project includes also works which improve the condition of the infrastructure network in the area. One of them was the improvement of a section at the Mouzaki - Arta national road. The road is developed through geological formations of the Pindos Zone. In the Argithea area, Karditsa County, it cuts through Cretaceous limestone bearing Calpionella. This formation develops high and steep slopes, over 50 m high. It consists of thin to medium bedded limestone, showing locally chert intercalations, and gradational transition to siliceous limestone. Thin silt or clay layers separate bedding. The formations is strongly folded and intensively jointed. The initial design proposed the construction of a slope with H:V relationship of 1:4 and benches every 20 m. The designed geometry was during and soon after excavation destroyed, due to sliding of rock particles. A new geometry was developed possessing a more stable state of dynamic equilibrium. Our task is to investigate and simulate the behavior of this formation. Based on data from both laboratory analysis and literature we ascribed the limestone formation values for its geotechnical properties. Using these values we estimate the values for the Safety Factor for the geometrical features of the slope. We control the stability of the slope using both rock mechanics and soil mechanic methods. The results point that rock formations, like the Cretaceous limestone which exhibit variation in their composition, and high contrast between the geotechnical characteristics values of the composing elements, may be considered as a material with soil properties. The Safety Factor calculation using these assumptions for the above mentioned slope, resulted a geometry close to the one developed. Therefore we conclude that such rock material and formations may successfully be simulated as materials with soil geotechnical behavior.
LANDSLIDE AT TSAKONA AREA IN ARKADIA PREFECTURE. GEOLOGICAL CONDITIONS AND ACTIVATION MECHANISM
Authors: Σωτηρόπουλος Λ. , Λυμπέρης E. , Σιγάλας Α. , Ντουρούπη Α. , Προβιά Κ. , Ντουνιάς Γ.
Published: July 2018

The geological conditions of the landslide's area, at Tsakona, in Arkadia Prefecture, are examined, as well as the factors that influenced the landslide's evolution. The landslide occurred at a distance of 15 km south of Megalopoli, on the New Highway, connecting Tripoli to Kalamata and constitutes one of the larger road landslides that have ever taken place. It occupies an area of a length of 1200m and a width of 300m. Geotectonically the landslide's region is placed in a block of the Pindos zone, thrusted on the Gabrovo-Tripoli zone. The geological formations that comprise the closer geological frame, consist of the formation of "First Flysch", Upper Jurassic - Lower Cretaceous and of the Upper Cretaceous limestones. The geological factors that drastically influenced the landslide's activation are lithological, tectonic, hydrogeological and morphological. The mainly siltstone lithology of the flysch, the intense tectonic deformation that occurred during the alpidic horogenetic phase, the morphological depression that is formed by the landslide's region and the large quantities of groundwater supplied by the uphill limestone, are the main geological reasons that activated the landslide. It should be emphasised that the activation and evolution of the landslide were greatly influenced by human activity during the road construction.
CONTRIBUTION OF SEASONAL STOCHASTIC MODELS SARIMA TO THE RATIONAL WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT. THE CASE OF THE KRANIA ELASSONA KARST SYSTEM, THESSALY, GREECE
Authors: Μανάκος A. , Δημόπουλος Γ.
Published: July 2018

Several stochastic models, known as Box and Jenkins or SARIMA (Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average) have been used in the past for forecasting hydrological time series in general and stream flow or spring discharge time series in particular. SARIMA models became very popular because of their simple mathematical structure, convenient representation of data in terms of a relatively small number of parameters and their applicability to stationary as well as nonstationary process.Application of the seasonal stochastic model SARIMA to the spring's monthly discharge time series for the period 1974-1993 in Krania Elassona karst system yielded the following results. Logarithms of the monthly spring discharge time series can be simulated on a SARIMA (4,1,1)(1,1,1)12 type model. This type of model is suitable for the Krania Elassona karst system simulation and can be utilised as a tool to predict monthly discharge values at Kafalovriso spring for at least a 2 year period. Seasonal stochastic models SARIMA seem to be capable of simulating both runoff and groundwater flow conditions on a karst system and also easily adapt to their natural conditions.Adapting the proper stochastic model to the karst groundwater flow conditions offers the possibility to obtain accurate short term predictions, thus contributing to rational groundwater resources exploitation and management planning
WATER MANAGEMENT AT ATHENS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT A CRITICAL APPROACH
Authors: Chilakos P. , Kavouras C. N.
Published: July 2018

The new Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" (AIA) has been constructed in theheart of the Mesogaia plain, approximately 25 kilometres northeast of Athens. The airport, whichhas been constructed on agricultural land that was once used for the cultivation of vegetables,fruits, olives, and other fresh products, commenced operations in March 2001.The Environmental Department (ENC) of AIA was established from the first day of the company'soperation in summer 1996. The responsibilities of ENC are related to the EnvironmentalManagement System, aircraft noise, air quality, resources monitoring, water management, naturalenvironment, waste management, cultural heritage, and community projects. AIA is the first Hellenicairport, with an Environmental Department that has been certified according to EN ISO 14001since December 2000.The airport and the activities directly and/or indirectly associated with its operations can have anenvironmental impact on water. In order to avoid such impacts, ENC closely monitors and takes initiativesregarding several water issues including: Ground water, Surface water & Potable waterMonitoring.The purpose of this paper is to provide detailed information regarding water management issues,especially those related to monitoring programs. Several such programs are conducted on aregular basis (some having commenced even prior to airport operations, e.g., groundwater and surfacewater) where the different water media are sampled, sent to accredited laboratories, analysedfor a selected suite of parameters, and checked for environmental compliance. If any of the waterstested are in non-compliance then a series of corrective measures are initiatedGroundwater sampling and analysis have been conducted on the airport site prior to airportopening. Results indicate that the parameters observed in exceedance to European legislation areattributed to agricultural practices that were prevalent prior to the airport construction rather thanfrom airport operationsSurface water sampling has been conducted on the site since airport opening. The selectedsuite of parameters tested from specific locations show that no systematic elevated levels havebeen recorded. The initiatives of ENC, including training, environmental auditing of Airport's ThirdParties, and remediation measures, have contributed to this outcomeThe results from the potable water sampling and analysis, which is conducted in cooperationwith EYDAP, indicate that water quality is in compliance with Greek legislation.This paper will be of interest to researchers, practitioners, and policy-makers, since it providesuseful information regarding the design, implementation, and outcome of water monitoring programs.