bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nickel-macrocycle interaction in nickel(II) porphyrins and porphyrazines bearing alkylthio β-substituents: A combined DFT and XPS study
Authors: Guascito Maria Rachele , Ricciardi Giampaolo , Rosa Angela
Published: July 2017

An electronic structure analysis of two nickel(II) tetrapyrrole complexes bearing β-alkylthio substituents, NiOMTP and NiOETPz, has been carried out through a combination of high-resolution XPS experiments and DFT calculations. The Ni 2p XPS spectra show a 0.5 eV shift to higher energy of the Ni 2p[Formula: see text] and Ni 2p[Formula: see text] binding energies on going from the porphyrin to the porphyrazine complex. This shift, which is well-reproduced by relativistic spin-orbit ZORA calculations, is indicative of a depletion of electron density on the central metal. Such a depletion of electron density is related to the macrocycle-induced changes in the metal-ligand interactions. In the porphyrazine complex both the ligand to metal [Formula: see text] donation and the metal to ligand [Formula: see text]-back donation increase. The latter increases slightly more than the former, however, leading to a decrease of electron density on the central metal.
Functional correlates of detailed body composition in healthy elderly subjects
Authors: Geisler Corinna , Schweitzer Lisa , Müller Manfred J.
Published: July 2017

Methods of body composition analysis are now widely used to characterize health status, i.e., nutritional status, metabolic rates, and cardiometabolic risk factors. However, the functional correlates of individual body components have not been systematically analyzed. In this study, we have used a two-compartment model, which was assessed by air displacement plethysmography. Detailed body composition was measured by whole body magnetic resonance imaging in a healthy population of 40 Caucasians, aged 65–81 yr (20 men; body mass index range: 18.6–37.2 kg/m2). Physical, metabolic, as well as endocrine functions included pulmonary function, handgrip strength, gait speed, sit-to-stand test, physical activity, blood pressure, body temperature, resting energy expenditure (REE), liver and kidney functions (glomerular filtration rate), insulin sensitivity [homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)], plasma lipids, plasma leptin, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, insulin-like growth factor I levels, thyroid status, vitamins, and inflammation. Individual body compartments were intercorrelated, e.g., skeletal muscle mass (SM) correlated with visceral adipose tissue ( r = 0.53) and kidneys ( r = 0.62). For the functional correlates, SM ( r = 0.58) and liver volume ( r = 0.63) were associated with REE, SM correlated with handgrip strength ( r = 0.57), and kidneys with glomerular filtration rate ( r = 0.57). While visceral adipose tissue correlated with HOMA ( r = 0.59), subcutaneous adipose tissue was related to plasma leptin levels ( r = 0.84). The subcutaneous adipose tissue-to-leptin relationship was moderated by inflammation increasing the explained variance of leptin levels by 4.0%. In linear regression analysis, detailed body composition explained variances in REE (75.0%), HOMA (41.0%), and leptin (78.0%) compared with a body mass index-based model (REE 16.0%, HOMA 31.0%, leptin 45.0%). In addition, detailed body composition explained 39.0% of the variance in kidney function.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY BCA should be used to address specific body functions only. In clinical practice, there is need of a clear focus on the specific research question related to physical, metabolic, or endocrine functions.
Expression of Autophagy-Related Proteins in Hürthle Cell Neoplasm Is Different from That in Follicular Neoplasm
Authors: Cha Yoon Jin , Kim Hye Min , Koo Ja Seung
Published: July 2017

Purpose. We aimed to evaluate expression of autophagy-related proteins in Hürthle cell neoplasm (HCN) and follicular neoplasm (FN) and assess the clinical implications. Methods. 265 FNs (112 follicular carcinomas and 153 follicular adenomas) and 108 HCNs (27 Hürthle cell carcinomas and 81 Hürthle cell adenomas) were made into a tissue microarray. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blot for autophagy-related proteins (beclin-1, light chain (LC) 3A, LC3B, p62, and BNIP3) were performed, and the results were statistically analyzed. Results. A higher expression rate of beclin-1, LC3B, p62, and BNIP3 was found in HCN than in FN (P<0.001). The expression rate of beclin-1, LC3B, p62, and BNIP3 was the highest in HCCs followed by HCAs, FCs, and FAs in that order (P<0.001). HCCs were positive for the largest number of autophagy-related proteins followed by HCAs, FCs, and FAs (P<0.001), and most of the positive markers identified in HCCs were the high autophagy type (P<0.001), defined by positive staining for three or more of the five autophagy-related proteins. Conclusion. The autophagy-related proteins, beclin-1, LC3A, LC3B, p62, and BNIP3, were more frequently expressed in HCNs than in FNs, and HCCs showed the highest expression rate.
Selective Surface Sintering Using a Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy System
Authors: Jull H. , Ewart P. , Künnemeyer R. , Schaare P.
Published: July 2017

Titanium metal injection molding allows creation of complex metal parts that are lightweight and biocompatible with reduced cost in comparison with machining titanium. Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) can be used to create plasma on the surface of a sample to analyze its elemental composition. Repetitive ablation on the same site has been shown to create differences from the original sample. This study investigates the potential of LIBS for selective surface sintering of injection-molded titanium metal. The temperature created throughout the LIBS process on the surface of the injection-molded titanium is high enough to fuse together the titanium particles. Using the ratio of the Ti II 282.81 nm and the C I 247.86 nm lines, the effectiveness of repetitive plasma formation to produce sintering can be monitored during the process. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy on the ablation craters confirms sintering through the reduction in carbon from 20.29 Wt.% to 2.13 Wt.%. Scanning electron microscope images confirm sintering. A conventional LIBS system, with a fixed distance, investigated laser parameters on injection-molded and injection-sintered titanium. To prove the feasibility of using this technique on a production line, a second LIBS system, with an autofocus and 3-axis translation stage, successfully sintered a sample with a nonplanar surface.
Screening for Cushing Syndrome at the Primary Care Level: What Every General Practitioner Must Know
Authors: Yorke Ernest , Atiase Yacoba , Akpalu Josephine , Sarfo-Kantanka Osei
Published: July 2017

Cushing’s syndrome is a rare entity, and a high index of suspicion is needed for screening in a primary care setting. The clinical awareness of the primary care physician (PCP) to the highly indicative signs and symptoms such as facial plethora, proximal myopathy, reddish purple striae, and easy bruisability should alert him to look for biochemical evidence of Cushing’s syndrome through any of the first-line screening tests, namely, 24-hour urinary free cortisol, overnight dexamethasone suppression test, or late-night salivary cortisol. Commonly used random cortisol measurements are unreliable; hence, general practitioners are encouraged to understand the use of these more reliable tests with increased sensitivity and specificity for screening Cushing’s syndrome. In this write-up, we set out to increase awareness about the presentation of Cushing’s syndrome and current recommended screening methods as well as their strengths and weaknesses. We relied mainly on the recommendations by the Endocrine Society Guidelines.
Mulberry Fruit Extract Affords Protection against Ethyl Carbamate‐Induced Cytotoxicity and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Chen Wei , Li Yuting , Bao Tao , Gowd Vemana
Published: July 2017

Ethyl carbamate (EC) is a food and environmental toxicant and is a cause of concern for human exposure. Several studies indicated that EC‐induced toxicity was associated with oxidative stress. Mulberry fruits are reported to have a wide range of bioactive compounds and pharmacological activities. The present study was therefore aimed to investigate the protective property of mulberry fruit extract (MFE) on EC‐induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress. Chemical composition analysis showed that total phenolic content and total flavonoid content in MFE were 502.43 ± 5.10 and 219.12 ± 4.45 mg QE/100 g FW. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside were the major anthocyanins in MFE. In vitro antioxidant studies (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays) jointly exhibited the potent antioxidant capacity of MFE. Further study indicated that MFE protected human liver HepG2 cells from EC‐induced cytotoxicity by scavenging overproduced cellular ROS. EC treatment promoted intracellular glutathione (GSH) depletion and caused mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) collapse, as well as mitochondrial membrane lipid peroxidation, whereas MFE pretreatment significantly inhibited GSH depletion and restored the mitochondrial membrane function. Overall, our study suggested that polyphenolic‐rich MFE could afford a potent protection against EC‐induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress.
Determination of Selected Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds in Particulate Matter Samples with Low Mass Loading: An Approach to Test Method Accuracy
Authors: García-Alonso Susana , Pérez-Pastor Rosa María , Archilla-Prat Víctor , Sanz-Rivera David , Rojas-García Enrique , Aragón-Urrengoetxea Gaizka , Rodríguez-Maroto Jesús Javier
Published: July 2017

A miniaturized analytical procedure to determine selected polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs) in low mass loadings (<10 mg) of particulate matter (PM) is evaluated. The proposed method is based on a simple sonication/agitation method using small amounts of solvent for extraction. The use of a reduced sample size of particulate matter is often limiting for allowing the quantification of analytes. This also leads to the need for changing analytical procedures and evaluating its performance. The trueness and precision of the proposed method were tested using ambient air samples. Analytical results from the proposed method were compared with those of pressurized liquid and microwave extractions. Selected PACs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and nitro polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs)) were determined by liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC/FD). Taking results from pressurized liquid extractions as reference values, recovery rates of sonication/agitation method were over 80% for the most abundant PAHs. Recovery rates of selected NPAHs were lower. Enhanced rates were obtained when methanol was used as a modifier. Intermediate precision was estimated by data comparison from two mathematical approaches: normalized difference data and pooled relative deviations. Intermediate precision was in the range of 10–20%. The effectiveness of the proposed method was evaluated in PM aerosol samples collected with very low mass loadings (<0.2 mg) during characterization studies from turbofan engine exhausts.
The Crosstalk between Ovarian Cancer Stem Cell Niche and the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Varas-Godoy Manuel , Rice Gregory , Illanes Sebastián E.
Published: July 2017

Ovarian cancer is one of the most important causes of cancer-related death among women in the world. Despite advances in ovarian cancer treatment, 70–80% of women who initially respond to therapy eventually relapse and die. There is evidence that a small population of cells within the tumors called cancer stem cells (CSCs) could be responsible for treatment failure due to their enhanced chemoresistance and tumorigenicity. These cells reside in a niche that maintains the principal properties of CSCs. These properties are associated with the capacity of CSCs to interact with different cells of the tumor microenvironment including mesenchymal stem cells, endothelial cells, immune cells, and fibroblasts, promoting cancer progression. This interaction can be mediated by cytokines, growth factors, lipids, and/or extracellular vesicles released in the CSC niche. In this review, we will discuss how the interaction between ovarian CSCs and the tumor microenvironment can contribute to the maintenance of the CSC niche and consequently to tumor progression in ovarian cancer.
Hexavalent Chromium Removal from Model Water and Car Shock Absorber Factory Effluent by Nanofiltration and Reverse Osmosis Membrane
Authors: Mnif Amine , Bejaoui Imen , Mouelhi Meral , Hamrouni Béchir
Published: July 2017

Nanofiltration and reverse osmosis are investigated as a possible alternative to the conventional methods of Cr(VI) removal from model water and industrial effluent. The influences of feed concentration, water recovery, pH, and the coexisting anions were studied. The results have shown that retention rates of hexavalent chromium can reach 99.7% using nanofiltration membrane (NF-HL) and vary from 85 to 99.9% using reverse osmosis membrane (RO-SG) depending upon the composition of the solution and operating conditions. This work was also extended to investigate the separation of Cr(VI) from car shock absorber factory effluent. The use of these membranes is very promising for Cr(VI) water treatment and desalting industry effluent. Spiegler-Kedem model was applied to experimental results in the aim to determine phenomenological parameters, the reflection coefficient of the membrane (σ), and the solute permeability coefficient (Ps). The convective and diffusive parts of the mass transfer were quantified with predominance of the diffusive contribution.
Dual-Task Performance in GBA Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Srulijes Karin , Brockmann Kathrin , Ogbamicael Senait , Hobert Markus A. , Hauser Ann-Kathrin , Schulte Claudia , Fritzen Jasmin , Schwenk Michael , Gasser Thomas , Berg Daniela , Maetzler Walter
Published: July 2017

Introduction. Parkinson’s disease patients carrying a heterozygous mutation in the geneglucocerebrosidase(GBA-PD) show faster motor and cognitive decline than idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (iPD) patients, but the mechanisms behind this observation are not well understood. Successful dual tasking (DT) requires a smooth integration of motor and nonmotor operations. This study compared the DT performances between GBA-PD and iPD patients.Methods.Eleven GBA-PD patients (p.N370S, p.L444P) and eleven matched iPD patients were included. Clinical characterization included a motor score (Unified PD Rating Scale-III, UPDRS-III) and nonmotor scores (Montreal Cognitive Assessment, MoCA, and Beck’s Depression Inventory). Quantitative gait analysis during the single-task (ST) and DT assessments was performed using a wearable sensor unit. These parameters corrected for UPDRS and MoCA were then compared between the groups.Results.Under the DT condition “walking while checking boxes,” GBA-PD patients showed slower gait and box-checking speeds than iPD patients. GBA-PD and iPD patients did not show significant differences regarding dual-task costs.Conclusion. This pilot study suggests that DT performance with a secondary motor task is worse in GBA-PD than in iPD patients. This finding may be associated with the known enhanced motor and cognitive deficits in GBA-PD compared to iPD and should motivate further studies.
Bearing Fault Detection by One‐Dimensional Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Eren Levent
Published: July 2017

Bearing faults are the biggest single source of motor failures. Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and other decision support systems are widely used for early detection of bearing faults. The typical decision support systems require feature extraction and classification as two distinct phases. Extracting fixed features each time may require a significant computational cost preventing their use in real‐time applications. Furthermore, the selected features for the classification phase may not represent the most optimal choice. In this paper, the use of 1D Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) is proposed for a fast and accurate bearing fault detection system. The feature extraction and classification phases of the bearing fault detection are combined into a single learning body with the implementation of 1D CNN. The raw vibration data (signal) is fed into the proposed system as input eliminating the need for running a separate feature extraction algorithm each time vibration data is analyzed for classification. Implementation of 1D CNNs results in more efficient systems in terms of computational complexity. The classification performance of the proposed system with real bearing data demonstrates that the reduced computational complexity is achieved without a compromise in fault detection accuracy.
Nontrivial Solutions for Time Fractional Nonlinear Schrödinger-Kirchhoff Type Equations
Authors: Nyamoradi N. , Zhou Y. , Tayyebi E. , Ahmad B. , Alsaedi A.
Published: July 2017

We study the existence of solutions for time fractional Schrödinger-Kirchhoff type equation involving left and right Liouville-Weyl fractional derivatives via variational methods.
Paracrine Potential of the Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells to Modulate Balance between Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Inhibitors in the Osteoarthritic Cartilage In Vitro
Authors: Denkovskij Jaroslav , Bagdonas Edvardas , Kusleviciute Ilona , Mackiewicz Zygmunt , Unguryte Ausra , Porvaneckas Narunas , Fleury Sandrine , Venalis Algirdas , Jorgensen Christian , Bernotiene Eiva
Published: July 2017

Adipose tissue represents an abundant source of stem cells. Along with anti-inflammatory effects, ASC secrete various factors that may modulate metabolism of extracellular matrix in osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage, suggesting that the presence of ASC could be advantageous for OA cartilage due to the recovery of homeostasis between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). To evaluate these effects, cartilage explants (CE) were cocultured with ASC for 3 and 7 days under stimulation with or without IL-1β.The pattern of gene expression in CE was modified by ASC, including the upregulation ofCOL1A1andCOL3A1and the downregulation ofMMP13andCOL10A1. The production of MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-13 by ASC was not significant; moreover, cocultures with ASC reduced MMP-13 production in CE. In conclusion, active production of TIMP-1, TIMP-2, TIMP-3, IL-6, IL-8, and gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 by ASC may be involved in the extracellular matrix remodelling, as indicated by the altered expression of collagens, the downregulated production of MMP-13, and the reduced chondrocyte apoptosis in the cocultured CE. These data suggest that ASC modulated homeostasis of MMPs/TIMPs in degenerated OA cartilage in vitro and might be favourable in case of the intra-articular application of ASC therapy for the treatment of OA.
Effect of Tranexamic Acid on Hematologic Values and Blood Loss in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Kim Sae Hoon , Jung Whan Ik , Kim Young Jun , Hwang Do Hyeon , Choi Young Eun
Published: July 2017

Purpose. Use of tranexamic acid (TXA) in the setting of arthroplasty of the lower extremity has been previously described. The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefit of a single dose of TXA (500 mg vial) administered intravenously just prior to RTSA in an Asian population. Methods. The records of 48 patients (no TXA, n=24, versus TXA, n=24) that underwent RTSA for cuff tear arthropathy were retrospectively reviewed. All patients had a Hemovac drain positioned for 2 days after surgery. Hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) were checked on postoperative day 2 and compared with preoperative levels. Results. Hematologic change on postoperative day 2 as determined by Hb level after surgery was statistically lower in the TXA group (2.8±0.8 versus 2.1±0.8 (mg/dL), P=0.006). Mean fall in Hct level was also significantly less in the TXA group (8.0±2.5 versus 6.1±2.6 (L/L), P=0.012). Total Hemovac drainage tended to be lower in the TXA group (263.4±129.3 versus 203.5±84.2 (ml), P=0.064). TXA was found to have no noticeable side effects. Conclusion. The use of a single intravenous dose of TXA immediately prior to RTSA reduces hematologic deterioration postoperatively and the amount of Hemovac drainage. TXA could avoid unnecessary transfusion and its associated medical side effects and cost.
Clinical Significance of Four Molecular Subtypes of Gastric Cancer Identified by The Cancer Genome Atlas Project
Authors: Sohn Bo Hwa , Hwang Jun-Eul , Jang Hee-Jin , Lee Hyun-Sung , Oh Sang Cheul , Shim Jae-Jun , Lee Keun-Wook , Kim Eui Hyun , Yim Sun Young , Lee Sang Ho , Cheong Jae-Ho , Jeong Woojin , Cho Jae Yong , Kim Joohee , Chae Jungsoo , Lee Jeeyun , Kang Won Ki , Kim Sung , Noh Sung Hoon , Ajani Jaffer A. , Lee Ju-Seog
Published: July 2017

Purpose: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project recently uncovered four molecular subtypes of gastric cancer: Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), microsatellite instability (MSI), genomically stable (GS), and chromosomal instability (CIN). However, their clinical significances are currently unknown. We aimed to investigate the relationship between subtypes and prognosis of patients with gastric cancer.

Experimental Design: Gene expression data from a TCGA cohort (n = 262) were used to develop a subtype prediction model, and the association of each subtype with survival and benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy was tested in 2 other cohorts (n = 267 and 432). An integrated risk assessment model (TCGA risk score) was also developed.

Results: EBV subtype was associated with the best prognosis, and GS subtype was associated with the worst prognosis. Patients with MSI and CIN subtypes had poorer overall survival than those with EBV subtype but better overall survival than those with GS subtype (P = 0.004 and 0.03 in two cohorts, respectively). In multivariate Cox regression analyses, TCGA risk score was an independent prognostic factor [HR, 1.5; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.2–1.9; P = 0.001]. Patients with the CIN subtype experienced the greatest benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy (HR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.16–0.94; P = 0.03) and those with the GS subtype had the least benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy (HR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.36–1.89; P = 0.65).

Conclusions: Our prediction model successfully stratified patients by survival and adjuvant chemotherapy outcomes. Further development of the prediction model is warranted. Clin Cancer Res; 23(15); 4441–9. ©2017 AACR.
Gene Copy Number Estimation from Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing of Prostate Cancer Biopsies: Analytic Validation and Clinical Qualification
Authors: Seed George , Yuan Wei , Mateo Joaquin , Carreira Suzanne , Bertan Claudia , Lambros Maryou , Boysen Gunther , Ferraldeschi Roberta , Miranda Susana , Figueiredo Ines , Riisnaes Ruth , Crespo Mateus , Rodrigues Daniel Nava , Talevich Eric , Robinson Dan R. , Kunju Lakshmi P. , Wu Yi-Mi , Lonigro Robert , Sandhu Shahneen , Chinnaiyan Arul M. , de Bono Johann S.
Published: July 2017

Purpose: Precise detection of copy number aberrations (CNA) from tumor biopsies is critically important to the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. The use of targeted panel next-generation sequencing (NGS) is inexpensive, high throughput, and easily feasible, allowing single-nucleotide variant calls, but CNA estimation from this remains challenging.

Experimental Design: We evaluated CNVkit for CNA identification from amplicon-based targeted NGS in a cohort of 110 fresh castration-resistant prostate cancer biopsies and used capture-based whole-exome sequencing (WES), array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), and FISH to explore the viability of this approach.

Results: We showed that this method produced highly reproducible CNA results (r = 0.92), with the use of pooled germline DNA as a coverage reference supporting precise CNA estimation. CNA estimates from targeted NGS were comparable with WES (r = 0.86) and aCGH (r = 0.7); for key selected genes (BRCA2, MYC, PIK3CA, PTEN, and RB1), CNA estimation correlated well with WES (r = 0.91) and aCGH (r = 0.84) results. The frequency of CNAs in our population was comparable with that previously described (i.e., deep deletions: BRCA2 4.5%; RB1 8.2%; PTEN 15.5%; amplification: AR 45.5%; gain: MYC 31.8%). We also showed, utilizing FISH, that CNA estimation can be impacted by intratumor heterogeneity and demonstrated that tumor microdissection allows NGS to provide more precise CNA estimates.

Conclusions: Targeted NGS and CNVkit-based analyses provide a robust, precise, high-throughput, and cost-effective method for CNA estimation for the delivery of more precise patient care. Clin Cancer Res; 23(20); 6070–7. ©2017 AACR.
The Successful Use of a Novel Microwave Device in the Treatment of a Plantar Wart
Authors: Bristow Ivan Robert , Webb Christopher , Ardern-Jones Michael Roger
Published: July 2017

Plantar warts, caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), are a commonly encountered condition presenting in clinic. In adults, an array of various therapies exists, frequently with modest results particularly with plantar lesions. Microwaves have had limited uses for medical purposes. Recently a new portable microwave device has been approved for the treatment of skin lesions. Prior research has demonstrated immuno-stimulatory effects against HPV infection. We report the application of a novel portable medical microwave unit to treat a long-standing plantar wart which had failed to respond to other treatment modalities.
In Individuals Following Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Haemorrhage, Hair Cortisol Concentrations Are Higher and More Strongly Associated with Psychological Functioning and Sleep Complaints than in Healthy Controls
Authors: Colledge Flora , Brand Serge , Zimmerer Stefan , Pühse Uwe , Holsboer-Trachsler Edith , Gerber Markus
Published: July 2017

Background: Following an aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH), many patients report persistent deficits in psychological functioning, characterised by high levels of stress and symptoms of depression, low life satisfaction, along with poor sleep. Such deficits have been associated with altered saliva and serum cortisol levels due to a dysregulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity (HPA-AA). However, hair cortisol concentrations (HCCs) have not been assessed in this population, although this method allows a long-term insight into cortisol values. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare HCCs in aSAH patients and healthy controls and to examine how HCCs are associated with perceived stress, psychological functioning, and sleep complaints. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, data on depressive symptoms, hypochondriacal beliefs, life satisfaction, and sleep complaints were gathered in 15 aSAH patients and 17 healthy controls. HCCs of the previous 3 months were assessed. Results: aSAH patients had significantly higher HCCs than healthy controls. In aSAH patients, higher HCCs were significantly associated with increased depressive symptoms, hypochondriacal beliefs, lower life satisfaction, and increased sleep complaints. Such significant associations were not found in healthy controls. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that a dysregulation of HPA-AA is associated with some of the long-term impairments in psychological functioning and sleep in aSAH survivors. While the direction of association remained unclear, a dysregulated HPA-AA may be causally linked with the maintenance of poor psychological functioning and poor sleep. The overall findings should be considered in the planning of long-term treatment aimed at improving psychological functioning and sleep in aSAH patients.
Acquired Pulmonary Arteriovenous Fistula within Metastasis from Choriocarcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Yamanari Tassia , Sawamura Marcio , Lee Hye Ju , Kai Chi Chang , Katz Artur
Published: July 2017

Choriocarcinoma is a highly malignant neoplasm arising from the trophoblast of a human pregnancy, which may have distant spread to multiple organs, particularly to the lung. We report a case of a pulmonary arteriovenous fistula that developed after chemotherapy within a choriocarcinoma metastasis. A 24-year-old female with a history of uterine choriocarcinoma presented with multiple hypervascular pulmonary nodules on the initial chest computed tomography (CT) scan, consistent with lung metastases. Four months after chemotherapy, follow-up chest CT revealed a decrease in the size and vascularity of the lung metastases, except for 1 nodule that persisted with marked contrast enhancement and developed a communication with a pulmonary artery and vein. These findings were consistent with an acquired arteriovenous fistula. Physicians should be aware of the risk of acquired arteriovenous fistula in pulmonary metastases after chemotherapy because it can lead to a right-to-left shunt, pulmonary hemorrhage, and paradoxical emboli. It is also important for the definition of therapeutic planning, in order to avoid it being misdiagnosed as a site of disease progression.
Ist Negativsymptomatik bei Schizophrenie überhaupt behandelbar? Ein systematisches Literaturreview zur Wirksamkeit psychotherapeutischer Interventionen für Negativsymptomatik
Authors: Riehle Marcel , Pillny Matthias , Lincoln Tania M.
Published: July 2017

Die Negativsymptomatik stellt einen der bedeutendsten Prädiktoren für Einschränkungen im Funktionsniveau von Menschen mit Schizophrenie dar. Allerdings wird dieser Symptombereich weitgehend als nicht behandelbar wahrgenommen. In diesem Artikel hinterfragen wir dieses Vorurteil, indem wir die Ergebnisse der existierenden Wirksamkeitsstudien für Behandlungsprogramme für Negativsymptomatik zusammenstellen. Wir beschränkten uns bei unserer systematischen Literatursuche ausschließlich auf Studien, die die Negativsymptomatik als primäres Behandlungsziel auswiesen, da vorherige Übersichtsarbeiten diesen Aspekt vernachlässigt hatten. Wir identifizierten 36 Studien, die gezielt die Wirksamkeit psychologischer Interventionen für Negativsymptomatik bei Störungen aus dem schizophrenen Formenkreis überprüften. Insgesamt stellten sich die Ergebnisse der Studien wie folgt dar: Der Behandlungseffekt für die motivationalen Komponenten der Negativsymptomatik war am größten in Studien, die kognitive Verhaltenstherapie und/oder soziale Kompetenztrainings verwendeten. Die größten Behandlungseffekte für die Affektverflachung ergaben sich in Studien zu nonverbalen Behandlungsansätzen wie der körperorientierten Psychotherapie. Auch für kognitive Remediation wurden positive Behandlungseffekte für die Negativsymptomatik gefunden, die allerdings nur teilweise mit einer Verbesserung der kognitiven Leistungsfähigkeit zusammenhingen. Obwohl es an methodisch guten Therapiestudien mangelt, zeigt unsere Literaturübersicht, dass die Negativsymptomatik psychotherapeutisch durchaus behandelbar ist. Unsere Zusammenstellung kann vor diesem Hintergrund als Entscheidungsstütze bei der Therapieplanung für Patienten mit Negativsymptomatik dienen.
A Symptomatic Case of Adenomatous Ductal Proliferation/Hyperplasia with a Large Cystic Lesion
Authors: Seki Nobuhiko , Yamazaki Norikazu , Ikeda Tatsuru , Hadara Hiroshi , Himi Tetsuo
Published: July 2017

Adenomatous ductal proliferation/hyperplasia (ADP/H) of the salivary gland, a rare asymptomatic nonneoplastic lesion that histopathologically resembles basal cell adenoma, is typically incidentally identified in resected specimens of other salivary diseases such as tumors and chronic sialadenitis. A 70-year-old male was referred to our hospital with a 9-month history of continuous swelling in the left parotid region. A physical examination revealed a soft mass in the left parotid gland, which was identified as a cystic mass by computed tomography. A parotid tumor with cystic components was suspected, and partial parotidectomy was performed under general anesthesia. The histopathological findings were consistent with the diagnosis of ADP/H of the salivary gland. This case report emphasizes the necessity for a proper diagnosis of ADP/H of the salivary gland. Further large case series are required for a modification of the definition of ADP/H for its correct diagnosis.
Zinc Depletion by TPEN Induces Apoptosis in Human Acute Promyelocytic NB4 Cells
Authors: Zhu Bo , Wang Jiayu , Zhou Feng , Liu Yingting , Lai Yueyang , Wang Jie , Chen Xiao , Chen Dianhua , Luo Lan , Hua Zi-Chun
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: The effects of zinc signaling on proliferation or apoptosis of leukemia cells remain elusive. In the present study, we used N, N, N’, N’-tetrakis-(2-pyridylmethyl)-ethylene-diamine (TPEN), a membrane-permeable zinc chelator, to evaluate the effect of zinc depletion on survival and apoptosis of NB4 acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) cells. Methods: The pro-apoptotic effects of TPEN on NB4 cells were examined by flow cytometry, and observed using an optical microscope. Intracellular labile zinc, nitric oxide (NO) or reactive oxygen species (ROS) changes caused by TPEN were measured by flow cytometry. We then explored possible roles of the crosstalk between intracellular labile zinc signaling and nitric oxide signaling in TPEN-triggered apoptosis. Results: we found that TPEN induced apoptosis in NB4 APL cells in a dosage-dependent manner. We further demonstrated that TPEN triggered apoptosis by attenuating intracellular zinc and nitric oxide signaling in NB4 cells. Both exogenous zinc supplement and the nitric donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) pre-incubation reversed TPEN-mediated inhibition of intracellular NO and Zn2+ signaling, and rescued NB4 cells from apoptosis. Conclusion: These results suggest for the first time that crosstalk between zinc signaling and nitric oxide pathway is essential for the survival of NB4 cells. TPEN induces apoptosis in NB4 cells via negatively regulating intracellular NO and Zn2+ signaling. Our in vitro data suggest that zinc depletion by TPEN may be a potential therapeutic strategy for APL.
Neutrophil extracellular traps are increased in patients with acute ischemic stroke: prognostic significance
Authors: Vallés Juana , Santos María Teresa , Latorre Ana María , Tembl José , Salom Juan , Nieves Candela , Lago Aida , Moscardó Antonio
Published: July 2017

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are networks of DNA, histones, and proteolytic enzymes produced by activated neutrophils through different mechanisms. NET formation is promoted by activated platelets and can in turn activate platelets, thus favoring thrombotic processes. NETs have been detected in venous and arterial thrombosis, but data in stroke are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate NETs in the plasma of patients with acute ischemic stroke and their potential association with baseline clinical characteristics, stroke severity, and one-year clinical outcomes. The study included 243 patients with acute ischemic stroke. Clinical and demographic data and scores of stroke severity (NIHSS and mRs) at onset and discharge were recorded. Markers of NETs (cell-free DNA, nucleosomes, and citrullinated histone 3 (citH3)), were determined in plasma. Patients were followed-up for 12 months after the ischemic event. NETs were significantly elevated in the plasma of patients with acute ischemic stroke when compared to healthy subjects. NETs were increased in patients who were over 65 years of age and in those with a history of atrial fibrillation (AF), cardioembolic stroke, high glucose levels, and severe stroke scores at admission and discharge. In multivariate analysis, elevated levels of citH3, the most specific marker of NETs, at onset were independently associated with AF and all-cause mortality at oneyear follow-up. NETs play a role in the pathophysiology of stroke and are associated with severity and mortality. In conclusion, citH3 may constitute a useful prognostic marker and therapeutic target in patients with acute stroke.
Impact of Stroke Center Certification on Mortality After Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Man Shumei , Schold Jesse D. , Uchino Ken
Published: July 2017

Background and Purpose—

An increasing number of hospitals have been certified as primary stroke centers (PSCs). It remains unknown whether the action toward PSC certification has improved the outcome of stroke care. This study aimed to understand whether PSC certification reduced stroke mortality.

Methods—

We examined Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries aged ≥65 years who were hospitalized between 2009 and 2013 for ischemic stroke. Hospitals were classified into 3 groups: new PSCs, the hospitals that received initial PSC certification between 2009 and 2013 (n=634); existing PSCs, the PSCs certified before 2009 (n=785); and non-SCs, the hospitals that have never been certified as PSCs (n=2640). Multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards model was used to compare the mortality among the 3 groups.

Results—

Existing PSCs were significantly larger than new PSCs as reflected by total number of beds and annual stroke admission (
P
<0.0001). Compared with existing PSCs, new PSCs had lower in-hospital (odds ratio, 0.862; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.817–0.910) and 30-day mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.981; 95% CI, 0.968–0.993), after adjusting for patient demographics and comorbidities. Compared with non-SCs, new PSCs had lower adjusted in-hospital (odds ratio, 0.894; 95% CI, 0.848–0.943), 30-day (HR, 0.904; 95% CI, 0.892–0.917), and 1-year mortality (HR, 0.907; 95% CI, 0.898–0.915). Existing PSCs had lower adjusted 30-day (HR, 0.922; 95% CI, 0.911–0.933) and 1-year mortality (HR, 0.900; 95% CI, 0.892–0.907) than non-SCs.

Conclusions—

Obtaining stroke certification may reduce stroke mortality and overcome the disadvantage of being smaller hospitals. Further study of other outcome measures will be useful to improve stroke system of care.
Mechanical Thrombectomy Outcomes With and Without Intravenous Thrombolysis in Stroke Patients
Authors: Mistry Eva A. , Mistry Akshitkumar M. , Nakawah Mohammad Obadah , Chitale Rohan V. , James Robert F. , Volpi John J. , Fusco Matthew R.
Published: July 2017

Background and Purpose—

Whether prior intravenous thrombolysis provides any additional benefits to the patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel, acute ischemic stroke remains unclear.

Methods—

We conducted a meta-analysis of 13 studies obtained through PubMed and EMBASE database searches to determine whether functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale) at 90 days, successful recanalization rate, and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage rate differed between patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy with (MT+IVT) and without (MT−IVT) pre-treatment with intravenous thrombolysis.

Results—

MT+IVT patients compared with MT−IVT patients had better functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale score, 0–2; summary odds ratio [OR], 1.27 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05–1.55];
P
=0.02; n=1769/1174), lower mortality (OR, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.55–0.91];
P
=0.006; n=1774/1202), and higher rate of successful recanalization (OR, 1.46 [95% CI, 1.09–1.96];
P
=0.01; n=1652/1216) without having increased odds of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (OR, 1.11 [95% CI, 0.69–1.77];
P
=0.67; n=1471/1143). A greater number of MT+IVT patients required ≤2 passes with a neurothrombectomy device to achieve successful recanalization (OR, 2.06 [95% CI, 1.37–3.10];
P
=0.0005; n=316/231).

Conclusions—

Our results demonstrated that MT+IVT patients had better functional outcomes, lower mortality, higher rate of successful recanalization, requiring lower number of device passes, and equal odds of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage compared with MT−IVT patients. The results support the current guidelines of offering intravenous thrombolysis to eligible patients even if they are being considered for mechanical thrombectomy. Because the data are compiled from studies where the 2 groups differed based on eligibility for intravenous thrombolysis, randomized trials are necessary to accurately evaluate the added value of intravenous thrombolysis in patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy.
Remarkable sexual dimorphism, rarity and cryptic species: a revision of the ‘aegrota species group’ of the Neotropical butterfly genus Caeruleuptychia with the description of three new species (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)
Authors: Nakahara Shinichi , Zacca Thamara , Huertas Blanca , Neild Andrew F. E. , Hall Jason P. W. , Lamas Gerardo , Holian Lauren A. , Espeland Marianne , Willmott Keith R.
Published: July 2017

The ‘aegrota species group’ of the Neotropical nymphalid genus Caeruleuptychia
Forster, 1964, in addition to three other superficially similar, enigmatic species in the genus, are revised. A lectotype is designated for Euptychia aegrota Butler, 1867, E. aetherialis
Butler, 1877
stat. rev., E. helios
Weymer, 1911 and E. pilata Butler, 1867, and C. aetherialis is resurrected from its synonymy with C. aegrota. Caeruleuptychia helios caelestissima
Brévignon, 2010, syn. nov., and Magneuptychia keltoumae
Brévignon & Benmesbah, 2012, syn. nov. are both regarded as junior subjective synonyms of C. helios (Weymer, 1911), as a result of the discovery and first illustration of the female of this taxon. The female of C. aegrota is also described and illustrated for the first time, and three new species, C. trembathi Willmott, Nakahara, Hall & Neild, sp. nov., C. scripta Nakahara, Zacca & Huertas, sp. nov., and C. maryzenderae Lamas & Nakahara, sp. nov. are described and named. We analyze morphological and molecular data separately, in addition to combining morphological data with molecular data, to provide the first phylogenetic hypothesis for the taxa treated in this revision.
Surprisingly modern Latest Cretaceous– earliest Paleocene woods of India
Authors: Wheeler Elisabeth A. , Srivastava Rashmi , Manchester Steven R. , Baas Pieter , Wiemann Michael
Published: July 2017

Background and approach
– The Deccan Intertrappean Beds of Central India contain a diverse assemblage of fossil plants, including petrified woods from 15 localities. These beds are dated at c. 67–64 Ma, i.e. latest Cretaceous–earliest Paleocene and span the K-Pg boundary, a significant time in angiosperm history. At this time, the Indian tectonic plate was halfway on its journey from Gondwana to its collision with Asia, and relatively close to the equator. We provide descriptions in IAWA Hardwood List codes for 47 species of Deccan fossil woods, based on our examination of thin sections of these woods, mostly holotypes that are housed at the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow, India. An appendix lists all validly published Deccan wood species of which we are aware, including 52 that we were not able to examine.

Main results
– The Deccan fossil woods described herein include the oldest known occurrences of some orders, families or genera viz. Lamiales (Lamia-ceae), Achariaceae (Hydnocarpus-like wood), Anacardiaceae, Simaroubaceae (Ailanthus-like and Simarouba-like woods), subfamily Leeoideae (Vitaceae), subfamily Myrtoideae (Myrtaceae), subfamily Planchoideae (Lecythidaceae), tribe Castilleae (Moraceae), tribes Grewioideae and Sterculioideae (Malvaceae). These first fossil records are discussed with reference to other macrofossil and pollen records of the same or related clades. They complement recent work on the oldest known Olea and Connaraceae also documented by Deccan woods.

For the Deccan woods we examined, we could confirm the earlier taxonomic assignment at least down to order or family level for 29 taxa. Ordinal level affinities are ambiguous for eight of the taxa. In two cases, we revised the taxonomic assignment to other families; for another eight, the original assignment was found to be incorrect, but we are unable to suggest alternative affinities.

Evolutionary implications
– Only 3% of all Deccan woods have scalariform perforations and the incidences of so-called specialized features in the Baileyan sense are high, so these woods have a remarkably “modern” aspect. This is anomalous in comparison with contemporaneous fossil woods from higher paleolatitudes, and seemingly they are more “derived” than the recent flora. In these respects, the Deccan woods constitute a unique assemblage. The low incidence of scalariform perforations suggests xeric conditions, while – in contrast – the low incidence of distinct growth ring boundaries suggests an aseasonal everwet climate. It is speculated that convergent xylem specialization, especially the selection for simple perforations, was enhanced by the climatic conditions found at low paleolatitudes with high temperatures as would characterize the Deccan Intertrappean Beds at the K-Pg boundary.
New species of Neotropical Acanthocinini (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae, Lamiinae)
Authors: MONNÉ MARCELA L. , MONNÉ MIGUEL A.
Published: July 2017

Six new species of Neotropical Acanthocinini are described and illustrated: Sympagus cooperi sp. nov. from Ecuador, Cobelura inornata sp. nov. from Costa Rica, Lepturges (L.) attaleae sp. nov. from Brazil and Paranisopodus amoenus sp. nov., Cobelura raphaeli sp. nov. and Cleodoxus tetralophus sp. nov. from Bolivia. Keys for the genera Sympagus Bates, 1881, Cobelura Erichson, 1847, Paranisopodus Monné & Martins, 1976 and Lepturges Bates, 1863 with unicolorous integument and uniform pubescence are provided.
How Skillful are the Multiannual Forecasts of Atlantic Hurricane Activity?
Authors: Caron Louis-Philippe , Hermanson Leon , Dobbin Alison , Imbers Jara , Lledó Llorenç , Vecchi Gabriel A.
Published: July 2017

The recent emergence of near-term climate prediction, wherein climate models are initialized with the contemporaneous state of the Earth system and integrated up to 10 years into the future, has prompted the development of three different multiannual forecasting techniques of North Atlantic hurricane frequency. Descriptions of these three different approaches, as well as their respective skill, are available in the peer-reviewed literature, but because these various studies are sufficiently different in their details (e.g., period covered, metric used to compute the skill, measure of hurricane activity), it is nearly impossible to compare them. Using the latest decadal reforecasts currently available, we present a direct comparison of these three multiannual forecasting techniques with a combination of simple statistical models, with the hope of offering a perspective on the current state-of-the-art research in this field and the skill level currently reached by these forecasts. Using both deterministic and probabilistic approaches, we show that these forecast systems have a significant level of skill and can improve on simple alternatives, such as climatological and persistence forecasts.