bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physically active individuals have a 23% lower risk of any colorectal neoplasia and a 27% lower risk of advanced colorectal neoplasia than their non-active counterparts: systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Huang Liwen , Gao Yang , Wang Yanhong , Chen Shanquan , Huang Junjie , Zheng Wenjing , Bao Pingping , Gong Yangming , Zhang Yanfeng , Wang Mei , Wong Martin Chi Sang
Published: July 2019

Background

Few studies have examined the associations between physical activity (PA), sedentary behaviour (SB) and risk of colorectal neoplasia (CN).

Methods

We systematically searched Medline, Embase, PsyInfo, Cochrane and other sources from their inception to 30 September 2018 for cohort, case-control and cross-sectional studies that evaluated these associations in asymptomatic, average-risk subjects. Random-effect models were used to estimate relative risks (RRs) of any-type CN, advanced CN, and non-advanced CN, respectively, in individuals with the highest versus the lowest level of PA and SB. Dose-response analyses and subgroup analyses were conducted. The I2statistic was used to examine heterogeneity among studies.

Results

We identified 32 observational studies, including 17 cross-sectional studies, 10 case-control studies and five longitudinal studies. PA (highest vs lowest) was inversely associated with risk for any-type CN (n=23 studies) and advanced CN (n=15 studies), with a RR of 0.77 (95% CI=0.71 to 0.83, I2=57.5%) and 0.73 (95% CI=0.63 to 0.82, I2=45.5%), respectively. There was no association between PA and non-advanced CN (n=5 studies). There was an as association between PA and any-type CN in both sexes, and also for the distal colon. We found no dose–response relationship between PA and any-type or advanced CN. Based on three studies identified, SB time (longest vs shortest) was associated with an increased risk of advanced CN (RR=1.24, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.49, I2=14.4%). No publication bias was detected by Begg’s test.

Conclusion

We report a 23% lower relative risk of any type of CN and a 27% lower risk of advanced CN in people with the highest level of PA compared with those in the lowest.
The Primary Care Spend Model: a systems approach to measuring investment in primary care
Authors: Baillieu Robert , Kidd Michael , Phillips Robert , Roland Martin , Mueller Michael , Morgan David , Landon Bruce , DeVoe Jennifer , Martinez-Bianchi Viviana , Wang Hong , Etz Rebecca , Koller Chris , Sachdev Neha , Jackson Hannah , Jabbarpour Yalda , Bazemore Andrew
Published: July 2019

Increased investment in primary care is associated with lower healthcare costs and improved population health. The allocation of scarce resources should be driven by robust models that adequately describe primary care activities and spending within a health system, and allow comparisons within and across health systems. However, disparate definitions result in wide variations in estimates of spending on primary care. We propose a new model that allows for a dynamic assessment of primary care spending (PC Spend) within the context of a system’s total healthcare budget. The model articulates varied definitions of primary care through a tiered structure which includes overall spending on primary care services, spending on services delivered by primary care professionals and spending delivered by providers that can be characterised by the ‘4Cs’ (first contact, continuous, comprehensive and coordinated care). This unifying framework allows a more refined description of services to be included in any estimate of primary care spend and also supports measurement of primary care spending across nations of varying economic development, accommodating data limitations and international health system differences. It provides a goal for best accounting while also offering guidance, comparability and assessments of how primary care expenditures are associated with outcomes. Such a framework facilitates comparison through the creation of standard definitions and terms, and it also has the potential to foster new areas of research that facilitate robust policy analysis at the national and international levels.
International Study of Definitions of English-Language Terms for Suicidal Behaviours: protocol of an opinion survey
Authors: Goodfellow Benjamin , Kõlves Kairi , De Leo Diego , Silverman Morton , Berman Alan , Mann John , Arensman Ella , Hawton Keith , Phillips Michael , Vijayakumar Lakshmi
Published: July 2019

Introduction

The objective of present paper is to outline the methodology of the International Study of Definitions of English-Language Terms for Suicidal Behaviours (ISDELTSB). The aim of the study is to survey existing English language terms and definitions used around the world for suicidal behaviour.

Methods and analysis

The ISDELTSB is a worldwide survey based on one ‘designated expert’ per each WHO-registered country. ‘Experts’ were contacted through the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), the World Psychiatric Association and the World Organization of Family Doctors. Each individual was sent an invitation to participate and a link to an online questionnaire. A comparison sample was created by inviting all IASP members to respond to the questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to assess respondents’ preferences about a particular set of terms and definitions by using the four major criteria of the definition of suicide identified in the literature (outcome, intent, knowledge and agency). The questionnaire used a multiple-choice question format. Participants were asked to choose one term in the list for each of the proposed definitions. Statements and definitions in the questionnaire were elaborated using the four main features of the definition of suicide, starting by the definitions and terms for which there is already a certain degree of consensus and then progressing to definitions and terms less agreed on.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol obtained approval of Griffith University’s Ethics Committee (ethics reference number 2017/601) and in accordance with the Australian National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research. Respondents are asked if they accept to be personally acknowledged in any output originating from this study, and if so to provide their full name, title and affiliations. If respondents do not accept, they are informed that the conduct of this research respects Griffith University’s Privacy Plan and that identified personal information is confidential and that anonymity will at all times be safeguarded. As detailed in the questionnaire cover letter, by answering the online or paper version of the questionnaire, respondents express their consent to participate. Dissemination of results will be done through a peer-reviewed journal article publication. This study aims to map the international use of definitions and terms for suicidal behaviour and ideation and favour the future use of an internationally shared set of terms and definitions. This will hopefully avoid undue duplication of efforts and reliably permit meta-analysis of data produced in different countries.
Retrospective study of prognosis and relating factors of cardiac complications associated with electrical injuries at a single centre in Korea
Authors: Choi Jae Hyuk , Han Donghoon , Kang Si-Hyuck , Yoon Chang-Hwan , Cho Jung Rae , Kym Dohern
Published: July 2019

Objectives

To date, no research has investigated the association between cardiac complication and electrical injury; hence, we aimed to assess the consequences and relating factors of cardiac complications from electrical injuries in South Korea.

Design

Retrospective single-centre study.

Participants

721 patients who had electrical injury–related admission during 2007–2017. An electronic medical record system was used to extract records of patients admitted for electrical injury treatment.

Results

Cardiac complications included abnormal parameters of myocardial damage, abnormal regional wall motion detected via echocardiogram, dysrhythmia (eg, bradycardia, atrial flutter/fibrillation) and ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Overall, 107 patients (14.8%) experienced cardiac complications. The average admission duration and intensive care unit stay duration were significantly longer in patients with cardiac complications than in those without them (75.0±45.3 vs 56.6±48.0 days and 19.3±24.1 vs 10.4±15.5 days, respectively, p<0.01 for both). Of the total cardiac cases, 72.9% had Troponin I elevation, 3.7% had regional wall motion abnormality, and 5.6% had atrial flutter/fibrillation. Overall, seven patients from the cardiac complication group and three patients from the control group died (p=0.01). All deaths occurred within 32 days, and the most common cause of death was septic shock. Total body surface area (TBSA) was only positively related factor to cardiac complications.

Conclusion

This study is the first in South Korea to reveal that electrical accident patients with cardiac complications experience poorer in-hospital prognosis, and TBSA was the only risk factor of cardiac complications. And initial treatment for infection and inflammations could be important in electrical injury.
A multifaceted intervention to improve the quality of care for patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty
Authors: Sorensen Lyle , Idemoto Lori , Streifel Janet , Williams Barbara , Mecklenburg Robert , Blackmore Craig
Published: July 2019

Knee and hip arthroplasties vary in cost, quality and outcomes. We developed a Lean quality improvement intervention for knee and hip arthroplasty patients encompassing the recognition, readiness, restoration and recovery phases of care.

The intervention included standardised, evidence-based pathways, shared decision making, patient and family member engagement, and transdisciplinary rounding, implemented successively through a series of rapid process improvement workshops. We evaluated the intervention through run charts and time series analysis for 2005–2014. Outcomes included length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmission, discharge disposition, postsurgical complications and patient satisfaction.

Included were 4253 total joint arthroplasty procedures, 1659 hip and 2594 knee. LOS decreased from 3.2 to 2.4 days postintervention for both hip and knee patients (p<0.001). The 30-day hospital readmission rate for hip patients decreased from 3.1% (18/576) to 1.1% (5/446, p=0.032) with knee patients unchanged. Discharge to home (vs rehabilitation facility or skilled nursing facility) increased from 72% (415/576) to 91% (405/446) (p<0.001) for hip patients, and from 70% (599/860) to 87% (578/663) for knee patients (p<0.001).

Our standardised multifaceted Lean quality improvement programme was associated with reduced LOS, decreased readmission rates and improved discharge disposition in total knee and hip arthroplasty patients.
Diagnostic approach to polyuria and polydipsia in dogs
Authors: McGrotty Yvonne , Randell Susan
Published: July 2019

Polyuria (increased urine output, ie, in excess of 50 ml/kg/day) and polydipsia (increased water intake, ie, in excess of 100 ml/kg/day) (PUPD) are very common presenting signs in canine patients. Water consumption can vary considerably from one day to another, so it is very important to quantify water intake before undertaking any investigations to avoid unnecessary and potentially expensive diagnostics. Where is it not possible to measure water intake accurately (eg, in cases where multiple animals drink from the same water bowl), multiple urine samples should be analysed to confirm that urine specific gravity is persistently low. This article outlines a logical diagnostic approach to PUPD in dogs.
Rehoming a surrendered dog to its original owner
Authors: Cheung Wesley , Fawcett Anne
Published: July 2019

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved.

In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, ‘Rehoming a surrendered dog to its original owner’, was submitted and is discussed by Wesley Cheung and Anne Fawcett. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue.

The series is being coordinated by Steven McCulloch, senior lecturer in human animal studies at the Centre for Animal Welfare, University of Winchester. It aims to provide a framework that will help practising veterinarians find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Rapid clinical mutational testing ofKRAS,BRAFandEGFR: a prospective comparative analysis of the Idylla technique with high-throughput next-generation sequencing
Authors: Van Haele Matthias , Vander Borght Sara , Ceulemans An , Wieërs Michiel , Metsu Sofie , Sagaert Xavier , Weynand Birgit
Published: July 2019

Aims

Precision medicine therapy is remodelling the diagnostic landscape of cancer. The success of these new therapies is often based on the presence or absence of a specific mutation in a tumour. The Idylla platform is designed to determine the mutational status of a tumour as quickly and accurately as possible, as a rapid, accurate diagnosis is of the utmost importance for the treatment of patients. This is the first complete prospective study to investigate the robustness of the Idylla platform forEGFR,KRASandBRAFmutations in non-small cell lung cancer, metastatic colorectal cancer and metastatic melanoma, respectively.

Methods

We compared prospectively the Idylla platform with the results we obtained from parallel high-throughput next-generation sequencing, which is the current gold standard for mutational testing. Furthermore, we evaluated the benefits and disadvantages of the Idylla platform in clinical practice. Additionally, we reviewed all the published Idylla performance articles.

Results

There was an overall agreement of 100%, 94% and 94% between the next-generation panel and the IdyllaBRAF,KRASandEGFRmutation test. Two interesting discordant findings among 48 cases were observed and will be discussed together with the advantages and shortcoming of both techniques.

Conclusion

Our observations demonstrate that the Idylla cartridge for theEGFR,KRASandBRAFmutations is highly accurate, rapid and has a limited hands-on time compared with next-generation sequencing.
Long-term safety and efficacy of deutetrabenazine for the treatment of tardive dyskinesia
Authors: Fernandez Hubert H. , Stamler David , Davis Mat D. , Factor Stewart A. , Hauser Robert A. , Jimenez-Shahed Joohi , Ondo William G. , Jarskog L. Fredrik , Woods Scott W. , Bega Danny , LeDoux Mark S. , Shprecher David R. , Anderson Karen E.
Published: July 2019

Objective

To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of deutetrabenazine in patients with tardive dyskinesia (TD).

Method

Patients with TD who completed the 12 week, phase 3, placebo-controlled trials were eligible to enter this open-label, single-arm study. The open-label study consisted of a 6 week dose-escalation phase and a long-term maintenance phase (clinic visits at Weeks 4, 6 and 15, and every 13 weeks until Week 106). Patients began deutetrabenazine at 12 mg/day, titrating up to a dose that was tolerable and provided adequate dyskinesia control, based on investigator judgement, with a maximum allowed dose of 48 mg/day (36 mg/day for patients taking strong cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) inhibitors). Safety measures included incidence of adverse events (AEs) and scales used to monitor parkinsonism, akathisia/restlessness, anxiety, depression, suicidality and somnolence/sedation. Efficacy endpoints included the change in Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) score (items 1 to 7) from baseline and the proportion of patients rated as ‘Much Improved’ or ‘Very Much Improved’ on the Clinical Global Impression of Change.

Results

A total of 343 patients enrolled in the extension study, and there were 331 patient-years of exposure in this analysis. The exposure-adjusted incidence rates of AEs with long-term treatment were comparable to or lower than those observed in the phase 3 trials. The mean (SE) change in AIMS score was –4.9 (0.4) at Week 54 (n = 146), – 6.3 (0.7) at Week 80 (n = 66) and –5.1 (2.0) at Week 106 (n = 8).

Conclusions

Overall, long-term treatment with deutetrabenazine was efficacious, safe, and well tolerated in patients with TD.

Trial registration number

NCT02198794.
Effects of vitamin D supplementation on cognitive function and blood Aβ-related biomarkers in older adults with Alzheimer’s disease: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Jia Jingya , Hu Jing , Huo Xiaoxu , Miao Rujuan , Zhang Yanping , Ma Fei
Published: July 2019

Objective

Our study aimed to assess the effect of a 12-month vitamin D supplementation on cognitive function and amyloid beta (Aβ)-related biomarkers in subjects with Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods 

This was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. 210 AD patients were randomly divided into intervention and control groups. Participants received 12-month 800 IU/day of vitamin D or starch granules as placebo. Tests of cognitive performance and Aβ-related biomarkers were measured at baseline, 6 months and 12 months.

Results 

Repeated-measures analysis of variance showed significant improvements in plasma Aβ42, APP, BACE1, APPmRNA, BACE1mRNA (p<0.001) levels and information, arithmetic, digit span, vocabulary, block design and picture arrange scores (p<0.05) in the intervention group over the control group. According to mixed-model analysis, vitamin D group had significant increase in full scale IQ during follow-up period (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Daily oral vitamin D supplementation (800 IU/day) for 12 months may improve cognitive function and decrease Aβ-related biomarkers in elderly patients with AD. Larger scale longer term randomised trials of vitamin D are needed.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR-IIR-16009549.
Building blocks of a mentally healthy workplace
Authors: Mamo Emma
Published: July 2019

As an employer, you have a legal duty of care to those you employ. But have you considered that that duty extends to supporting their mental health? Here Emma Mamo, head of workplace wellbeing at Mind, suggests some ways to go about building a mentally healthy working environment.
Stand dynamics and topographic setting influence changes in live tree biomass over a 34-year permanent plot record in a subalpine forest in the Colorado Front Range
Authors: Chai Rachel K. , Andrus Robert A. , Rodman Kyle , Harvey Brian J. , Veblen Thomas T.
Published: July 2019

Climate-induced increases in tree mortality are reported for many forests worldwide. Understanding the potential effects on carbon pools requires long-term monitoring of changes in forest biomass. We measured aboveground biomass (AGB) of living trees over a 34-year period (1982–2016) in permanent plots with varying stand ages, species compositions, and topographic settings in a subalpine forest in the Colorado Front Range. Stand-level and species-level AGB varied spatially and temporally in relation to stand age, successional processes, and site moisture classification. Young (ca. 122 years) postfire stands composed of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia Engelm. ex S. Watson) had lower mean AGB than older (>250 years) mixed-species stands. Mesic stands had higher AGB than xeric or hydric stands of similar age. At the level of individual species, significant shifts in AGB among species were primarily explained by successional replacement of shade-intolerant pines by shade-tolerant Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii Parry ex Engelm.) and subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa (Hook.) Nutt.). The permanent plot network recorded significant shifts in species dominance and tree densities between 1982 and 2016, reflecting successional patterns developing over several centuries and the effects of recent localized windthrow, insects, and pathogens. Despite increases in tree mortality, there was a general pattern of increasing AGB across the forest.
The effect of folic acid administration on cardiac tissue matrix metalloproteinase activity and hepatorenal biomarkers in diabetic rats
Authors: Mutavdzin Slavica , Gopcevic Kristina , Stankovic Sanja , Jakovljevic Uzelac Jovana , Labudovic Borovic Milica , Djuric Dragan
Published: July 2019

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder that causes severe complications. Thus, the aims of this study were to investigate the influence of DM and folic acid treatment on liver and renal biomarkers, and heart remodeling through evaluation of cardiac matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity. There were 4 groups: control (physiological saline 1 mL/kg, i.p., 28 days), DM (streptozotocin [STZ] 100 mg/kg in physiological saline, i.p., 1 day), folic acid (FA; 5 mg/kg, i.p., 28 days), and DM+FA (STZ 100 mg/kg, i.p., 1 day and folic acid 5 mg/kg, i.p., 28 days). Our results demonstrated increased aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase activity, urea and creatinine concentration, and decreased albumin and fibrinogen concentration in the DM group. MMP-2 relative activity was elevated in the DM and FA groups; MMP-9 was decreased in the DM and increased in the FA group. The folic acid treatment of diabetic rats did not change aminotransferase activity; it alleviated the increase in alkaline phosphatase and the decrease in albumin and fibrinogen concentration, and reduced MMP-2 activity; however, it increased urea and creatinine concentration. In conclusion, folic acid treatment of diabetic rats has cardio- and hepato-protective effects. However, its dosing should be carefully considered because of possible renal damage.
Electron structure and density of states’ calculations of Ag2S and Ag2Se crystals from first-principle
Authors: Aliyev Y. I. , Ismayilova N. A. , Novruzov R. F. , Dashdamirov A. O. , Huseynov H. J. , Jabarov S. H. , Ayubov A. A.
Published: July 2019

The results of calculations of the electron structure for Ag2S and Ag2Se crystals from first-principle in the framework of density functional theory (DFT) are presented in this work. The origin of the bands from [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] electron states of Ag, S and Se atoms are investigated. It was established that the orthorhombic Ag2Se crystal shows semiconductor properties in P2221and P212121space groups and semimetallic properties in Im-3m space groups with cubic crystal system. Monoclinic crystal type of Ag2S shows semiconductor properties in P21/c space group. However, semimetallic properties manifested itself in monoclinic Ag2S in P21and cubic Ag2S structure in Im-3m phases.
First Passage Time Distribution for Spiking Neuron with Delayed Excitatory Feedback
Authors: Shchur Olha , Vidybida Alexander
Published: July 2019

A class of spiking neuronal models with threshold 2 is considered. It is defined by a set of conditions typical for basic threshold-type models, such as the leaky integrate-and-fire (LIF) or the binding neuron model, and also for some artificial neurons. A neuron is stimulated with a Poisson stream of excitatory impulses. Each output impulse is conveyed through the feedback line to the neuron input after finite delay [Formula: see text]. This impulse is identical to those delivered from the input stream. We have obtained a general relation allowing calculating exactly the probability density function (PDF) [Formula: see text] for distribution of the first passage time of crossing the threshold, which is the distribution of output interspike intervals (ISI) values for this neuron. The calculation is based on known PDF [Formula: see text] for that same neuron without feedback, intensity of the input stream [Formula: see text] and properties of the feedback line. Also, we derive exact relation for calculating the moments of [Formula: see text] based on known moments of [Formula: see text].

The obtained general expression for [Formula: see text] is checked numerically using Monte Carlo simulation for the case of LIF model. The course of [Formula: see text] has a [Formula: see text]-function-type peculiarity. This fact contributes to the discussion about the possibility to model neuronal activity with Poisson process, supporting the “no” answer.
ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION, PERFORMANCE AND THE MODERATING ROLE OF INSTITUTIONAL CAPITAL: A CASE STUDY OF FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS IN THAILAND
Authors: KUNGWANSUPAPHAN CHONNATCHA , LEIHAOTHABAM JIBON KUMAR SHARMA
Published: July 2019

This study examines the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation of female entrepreneurs and business performance, and analyzes the moderating role of institutional capital on the entrepreneurial orientation-performance link. The results of the study highlight the important role of entrepreneurial orientation, including proactiveness, innovativeness and risk-taking, in directing business performance of female entrepreneurs and the complex interplay among entrepreneurial orientation variables. It also indicates that accessibility to institutional capital, through regulative, cognitive and normative dimensions, encourages female entrepreneurs to be more entrepreneurially oriented, thus leading to better business performance. In addition, this research proposes an integrated framework to guide policy makers on how institutional capital can play a crucial role in helping female entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of becoming entrepreneurial oriented and thus, achieving superior business performance.
Chronic exercise training prevents coronary artery stiffening in aortic-banded miniswine: role of perivascular adipose-derived advanced glycation end products
Authors: Ouyang An , Olver T. Dylan , Emter Craig A. , Fleenor Bradley S.
Published: July 2019

Heart failure (HF) is associated with increased large conduit artery stiffness and afterload resulting in stiffening of the coronary arteries. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) and advanced glycation end products (AGE) both promote arterial stiffness, yet the mechanisms by which coronary PVAT promotes arterial stiffness and the efficacy of exercise to prevent coronary stiffness are unknown. We hypothesized that both chronic continuous and interval exercise training would prevent coronary PVAT-mediated AGE secretion and arterial stiffness. Yucatan miniature swine were divided into four groups: control-sedentary (CON), aortic banded sedentary-heart failure (HF), aortic banded HF-continuous exercise trained (HF+CONT), and aortic banded HF-interval exercise trained (HF+IT). The left circumflex and right coronary arteries underwent ex vivo mechanical testing, and arterial AGE, elastin, and collagen were assessed. Coronary elastin elastic modulus (EEM) and elastin protein were lower and AGE was increased with HF compared with CON, which was prevented by both HF+CONT and HF+IT. Mouse aortic segments treated with swine coronary PVAT conditioned medium had lower EEM and elastin content and greater AGE secretion and arterial AGE accumulation in HF compared with CON, which was prevented by both HF+CONT and HF+IT. Aminoguanidine (AMG), an AGE inhibitor, prevented the reduction in EEM, arterial elastin content, and AGE accumulation in mouse aortic segments treated with PVAT conditioned medium in the HF group. Our data demonstrate efficacy for chronic continuous and interval exercise to prevent coronary artery stiffness via inhibition of PVAT-derived AGE secretion in a preclinical miniswine model of pressure overload-induced HF.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our findings show that chronic continuous and interval exercise training regimens prevent coronary artery stiffness associated with inhibition of perivascular adipose tissue-derived advanced glycation end products in a translational pressure overload-induced heart failure model potentially providing an effective therapeutic option for heart failure patients.
Interleukin-1 receptor accessory proteins are required for normal homeostatic responses to sleep deprivation
Authors: Nguyen Joseph , Gibbons Cody M. , Dykstra-Aiello Cheryl , Ellingsen Riley , Koh Khia Min Sabrina , Taishi Ping , Krueger James M.
Published: July 2019

Interleukin-1β (IL1) is a sleep regulatory substance. The IL1/IL1 type 1 receptor complex requires a receptor accessory protein (AcP) to signal. There are three isoforms of AcP. In the current experiments, mice lacking a neuron-specific isoform, called AcPb knockout (AcPb KO), or mice lacking AcP + AcPb isoforms (AcP KO) or wild-type (WT) mice were used. Spontaneous sleep and sleep responses to sleep deprivation (SD) between zeitgeber time (ZT) 20–ZT4 and ZT8–ZT16 were characterized. Furthermore, somatosensory cortical protein extracts were examined for phosphorylated (p) proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase sarcoma (Src) and p38MAPK levels at ZT4 and ZT16 and after SD. Spontaneous sleep was similar in the three strains, except rapid eye movement sleep (REMS) duration between ZT12–ZT16 was greater in AcP KO than WT mice. After SD at ZT4, only WT mice had non-REMS (NREMS) rebounds. All mouse strains lacked an NREMS rebound after SD at ZT16. All strains after both SD periods had REMS rebounds. AcPb KO mice, but not AcP KO mice, had greater EEG delta wave (0.5–4 Hz) power during NREMS than WT mice. p-Src was very low at ZT16 but high at ZT4, whereas p-p38MAPK was low at ZT4 and high at ZT16. p-p38MAPK levels were not sensitive to SD. In contrast, p-Src levels were less after SD at the P = 0.08 level of significance in the strains lacking AcPb. We conclude that AcPb is required for NREMS responses to sleep loss, but not for SD-induced EEG delta wave or REMS responses.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Interleukin-1β (IL1), a well-characterized sleep regulatory substance, requires an IL1 receptor accessory protein (AcP); one of its isoforms is neuron-specific (called AcPb). We showed that in mice, AcPb is required for nonrapid eye movement sleep responses following 8 h of sleep loss ending 4 h after daybreak but did not affect rapid eye movement sleep rebound. Sleep loss reduced phosphorylation of proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase sarcoma but not of the less sensitive p38MAPK, downstream IL1 signaling molecules.
Chattering‐Free Sliding Mode Control for Networked Control System with Time Delay and Packet Dropout Based on a New Compensation Strategy
Authors: Zhang Yu , Xie Shousheng , Zhang Ledi , Ren Litong , Zhou Bin , Wang Hao
Published: July 2019

This paper addresses the sliding mode control problem for a class of networked control systems with long time delay and consecutive packet dropout. A new modeling method is proposed, through which time delay and packet dropout are modeled in a unified model described by one Markov chain. To avoid the chattering problem of classic reaching law, a new chattering‐free reaching law is proposed. Then with a focus on the problem that controller‐actuator channel network condition cannot be foreseen by the controller, a new compensation strategy is proposed, which can effectively compensate for the effect of time delay and packet dropout in controller‐actuator channel. Finally, a simulation example is presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Status Epilepticus Caused by an Herbicide Poisoning
Authors: Sidayne Mohammed , Lahlou Adnane , Benlamkaddem Saïd , Berdai Mohamed Adnane , Harandou Mustapha
Published: July 2019

Triclopyr is a pyridine derivative, widely used as an herbicide. It controls plant growth by interfering with plant growth hormones, auxins. It should have few effects in humans as these are nonexistent in mammals. It can prove however very severe in cases of acute poisoning.
VEGF Induce Vasculogenic Mimicry of Choroidal Melanoma through the PI3k Signal Pathway
Authors: Xu Xiaoyan , Zong Yao , Gao Yunxia , Sun Xiangrong , Zhao Han , Luo Wenjuan , Jia Shaoyou
Published: July 2019

Purpose. To explore the effect of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) on the vasculogenic mimicry (VM) formation of Choroidal Melanoma (CM) through PI3k signal pathway, to find novel targets for CM therapy. Methods. This research investigated the molecular mechanism of VEGF promoting VM formation of CM. First, we evaluated the expressions of VEGF in 20 CM specimens by immunohistochemical determination. Then we detected expressions of VEGF, AKT, MT1-MMP, MMP2, and MMP9 of OCM-1 in hypoxia. siRNA was used to inhibit the expression of VEGF, to realize the control of the VM formation. The VM formation was evaluated through wound healing assay, transwell assay, and apoptosis. And then we testify the correlation of the VM and the factors in protein and mRNA level preliminarily. Results. VEGF protein was expressed in CM in all 20 cases of CM, especially along the VM. In hypoxia, the expression of VEGF in OCM-1 increased significantly. VEGF gene deletion reduced the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OCM-1. VEGF gene deletion impaired the expression of invasive associated genes like VEGF, p-AKT, AKT, MT1-MMP, MMP2, and MMP9. These results indicate that VEGF induce VM formation in CM by activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Conclusions. VEGF promoted VM formation by the PI3K signal transduction pathway, indicating a molecular mechanism which may be used to develop new therapeutic targets for the clinical treatment of CM.
Tumor Microenvironment and Cell Fusion
Authors: Jiang Erhui , Yan Tinglin , Xu Zhi , Shang Zhengjun
Published: July 2019

Cell fusion is a highly regulated biological process that occurs under both physiological and pathological conditions. The cellular and extracellular environment is critical for the induction of the cell–cell fusion. Aberrant cell fusion is initiated during tumor progression. Tumor microenvironment is a complex dynamic system formed by the interaction between tumor cells and their surrounding cells. Cell–cell fusion mediates direct interaction between tumor cells and their surrounding cells and is associated with tumor initiation and progression. Various microenvironmental factors affect cell fusion in tumor microenvironment and generate hybrids that acquire genomes of both parental cells and exhibit novel characteristics, such as tumor stem cell-like properties, radioresistance, drug resistance, immune evasion, and enhanced migration and invasion abilities, which are closely related to the initiation, invasion, and metastasis of tumor. The phenotypic characteristics of hybrids are based on the phenotypes of parental cells, and the fusion of tumor cells with diverse types of microenvironmental fusogenic cells is concomitant with phenotypic heterogeneity. This review highlights the types of fusogenic cells in tumor microenvironment that can fuse with tumor cells and their specific significance and summarizes the various microenvironmental factors affecting tumor cell fusion. This review may be used as a reference to develop strategies for future research on tumor cell fusion and the exploration of cell fusion-based antitumor therapies.
Gingko biloba Extract (EGb) Inhibits Oxidative Stress in Neuro 2A Cells Overexpressing APPsw
Authors: Chen Le , Zhang Chenghong , Han Ying , Meng Xianyi , Zhang Ying , Chu Haiying , Ma Haiying
Published: July 2019

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disease. Abundant evidence demonstrates that oxidative stress may be not only an early event in this disease, but also a key factor in the pathogenesis of AD. Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) has a strong ability to scavenge oxygen free radicals and supply hydrogen. The present study aims to investigate the effects of EGb on Neuro 2A cells transfected with Swedish mutant APP (APPsw). Stably transfected Neuro 2A cell lines expressing human wild-type APP (APP695), APPsw, or empty vector(neo) pEGFP-N2 were treated with 100 μg/ml EGb for 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 h. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring free radicals and the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Our studies showed that EGb treatment reduced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly while total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were enhanced in Neuro 2A cells overexpressing APPsw. Meanwhile, Aβ levels in these cells were also reduced compared to the levels in untreated cells and control cells (empty vector(neo) pEGFP-N2). These findings suggest that EGb can reduce oxidative stress by decreasing free radical and enhancing antioxidant status, further leading to reduced Aβ aggregation; EGb might be a potential therapeutic agent for Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
Terrain Referenced Navigation Using a Multilayer Radial Basis Function-Based Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Lee Jungshin , Sung Changky , Oh Juhyun
Published: July 2019

A high-resolution digital elevation model (DEM) is an important element that determines the performance of terrain referenced navigation (TRN). However, the higher the resolution of the DEM, the bigger the memory size needed for storing it. It is difficult to secure such large memory spaces in small, low-priced unmanned aerial vehicles. In this study, a high-precision terrain regression model to fit the DEM is generated using the extreme learning machine technique based on the multilayer radial basis function. The TRN results using the proposed method are compared with existing studies on various DEM fitting methods. This study verifies that the proposed method obtains improved fitting accuracy and TRN performance over existing DEM fitting methods such as bilinear interpolation, SVM for regression, and bi-spline neural network, without the DEM storage space.
Rifabutin and Furazolidone Could Be the Candidates of the Rescue Regimen for Antibiotic-Resistant H. pylori in Korea
Authors: Choi Youn I , Jeong Sang-Ho , Chung Jun-Won , Park Dong Kyun , Kim Kyoung Oh , Kwon Kwang An , Kim Yoon Jae , So Seol , Lee Jeong Hoon , Jeong Jin-Young , Lee Sun-Mi
Published: July 2019

Background/Aim. In Korea, the rate of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication has declined steadily as a result of increasing resistance to antibiotics, especially dual resistance to clarithromycin and metronidazole. However, microbiological culture data on drug-resistant H. pylori is lacking. This study evaluated the antimicrobial efficacy of candidate antibiotics against resistant H. pylori strains. Methods. After retrospectively reviewing the data from the Helicobacter Registry in Gil Medical Center (GMC) and Asan Medical Center (AMC), along with 4 reference strains, we selected the 31 single- or multidrug-resistant strains. The susceptibility of the H. pylori strains to seven antibiotics (clarithromycin, metronidazole, levofloxacin, amoxicillin, tetracycline, rifabutin, and furazolidone) and minimum inhibitory concentration were tested using the broth microdilution technique. Results. Among 31 antibiotic resistance strains for H. pylori, there were no strains resistant to rifabutin or furazolidone, which had MICs of <0.008 and 0.5 μg/mL, respectively. Only one tetracycline-resistant strain was found (MIC < 2 μg/mL). Amoxicillin and levofloxacin were relatively less effective against the H. pylori strains compared to rifabutin or furazolidone (resistance rates 22.6%, 1.9%, respectively). Tetracycline showed the relatively low resistance rates (3.2%) for H. pylori strains. Conclusions. Therefore, along with tetracycline which has already been used as a component for second-line eradication regimen for Helicobacter, rifabutin and furazolidone, alone or in combination, could be used to eradicate antibiotic-resistant H. pylori strains where drug-resistant Helicobacter spp. are increasing.
Successful Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Use without Systemic Anticoagulation for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in a Patient with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Faulkner Amanda L. , Bacon James David , Fischer Brian A. , Grupke Stephen L. , Hatton Kevin W.
Published: July 2019

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an important life-saving technology for patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Unfortunately, ECMO has been traditionally contraindicated in patients with hemorrhagic neurologic diseases. The recent improvement in ECMO devices, increased utilization and experience with venovenous ECMO technologies among healthcare teams, and the use of ECMO without anticoagulation has expanded the potential populations that may benefit from ECMO. We present a case of successful utilization of venovenous ECMO for severe respiratory failure secondary to ARDS in a patient with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage and severe, episodic cerebral vasospasm. We also discuss important limitations and considerations for future successful use of ECMO in hemorrhagic stroke. This case report highlights the potential for this life-saving technology in patients with hemorrhagic stroke.
Reverse Tubularized Pelvis Flap Method for the Treatment of Long Segment Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction
Authors: Sarihan Haluk , Yalçın Comert Hatice Sonay , İmamoğlu Mustafa , Basar Dilek
Published: July 2019

Objective: The most common cause of urinary obstruction is ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction. In short stenosis, a dismembered pyeloplasty is performed, but for long segment stenosis, the procedure is not well defined. We present the reverse flap ureteroplasty method, which we prepared from the pelvis for use in long segment UPJ obstruction. Methods: Between 2007 and 2016, we operated on 6 cases (4 males, 2 females) with an age range of 2–6 months. After reaching the UPJ region, depending on the length of the long segment obstruction, a flap measuring 25–35 mm in length was prepared from the pelvis so that its width would be 10–12 mm on the pelvis side and 10 mm in the distal portion. It was then reversed and tubularized with an absorbable suture over a 10-French nelaton catheter. The end of this ureter and the end of the distal ureter were spatulated and anastomosed. A double J and minivac drain were used in each case. Results: There were no complications in the postoperative period of all our patients. They were all discharged with good health. Follow-up with renal ultrasonography showed that the anteroposterior diameters were decreased and that parenchymal thicknesses had returned to normal. Secondary stenosis, flap necrosis, and retraction did not develop. Conclusion: Because the blood supply of the pelvis is increased in patients with UPJ obstruction, a reverse flap of adequate length with preserved blood supply can be achieved and tubularized. We suggest that this method will be appropriate for the treatment of long segment UPJ obstruction.
ЯКІСТЬ ПИТНОЇ ВОДИ ЯК ОДНА З ДЕТЕРМІНАНТ ГРОМАДСЬКОГО ЗДОРОВ’Я В ЗАХІДНОМУ РЕГІОНІ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: Lototska I. V. , Kondratjuk V. A. , Kucher S. V.
Published: July 2019

Відомо, що здоров'я людини значною мірою залежить від якості води, яку вона споживає.

Мета: провести аналіз деяких показників захворюваності населення західних областей України, які розташовані в басейні р. Дністер. 

Матеріали і методи. При проведенні дослідження використано дані Державного комітету статистики України за 2015 р., застосовано статистичний метод.

Результати. У результаті проведеного аналізу було встановлено, що загальна захворюваність найбільша в Івано-Франківській області. Захворюваність на інфекційні та паразитарні хвороби переважає в Чернівецькій області. Кількість новоутворень найбільше реєструють в Львівській області. Найпоширенішими для населення західних областей є хвороби крові, кровотворних органів та окремі порушення із залученням імунного механізму. Щодо уперше зареєстрованих випадків хвороб органів травлення, то вони є характерними для Івано-Франківської, Хмельницької та Львівської областей.

Висновки. У Західному регіоні України на першому місці за кількістю уперше зареєстрованих випадків за­хво­рювань населення за класами хвороб є Івано-Франківська область, у якій чотири з п’яти класів захворювань значно перевищують середні по Україні показники. Причиною цього може бути низька якість питної води. Адже це єдина область в Західному регіоні України, в якій більшість населення споживає воду з поверхневих джерел, на якість якої можуть впливати промислові підприємства хімічної, енергетичної, нафтогазовидобувної, деревообробної та інших галузей.
O meu amigo Koellreutter de Gilberto Mendes Viagem às nascentes dos sentidos
Authors: Prado Maria Yuka de Almeida
Published: July 2019

Gilberto Mendes (1922-2016), compositor brasileiro da segunda metade do século XX, criou a obra O meu amigo Koellreutter, para voz feminina, marimba e piano, no ano de 1984, em comemoração ao septuagésimo aniversário de Hans-Joachim Koellreutter. Trata-se de uma canção sem palavras, em que a ausência de texto faz aflorar as múltiplas interpretações, não delimitadas por um código verbal específico. Vislumbra-se, dessa forma, a universalidade dos sentidos primordiais da voz. Nela se evidenciam as nuances sutis do pentatonismo numa estrutura minimalista, trazendo à tona a influência de certa musicalidade japonesa. O compositor da canção, na busca por uma poética pessoal, a ser construída a partir de influências cosmopolitas, encontra-se com outro agitador cultural, ávido também na procura de questões instigantes em relação à modernidade: Koellreutter. Nasceu na Alemanha, em 1915, atuando inicialmente como flautista. A vinda ao Brasil, em 1937, deveu-se ao nazismo que assolava o país. Professor de vários compositores e educadores de música no Brasil, fez parte do Música Viva, intenso movimento de revitalização artística, pedagógica e cultural. O contato com o Japão, na década de 50, permitiu-lhe vivenciar um modelo de sincretismo entre o tradicional e o novo, o ocidente e o oriente. Gilberto Mendes encontra, nessa fusão cultural de Koellreutter, um motivo para a sua composição musical, recriando de forma lúdica, a partir de uma perspectiva brasileira, um modo de traduzir o Japão. Da imanência à manifestação, a atmosfera japonesa ganha corpo na produção da canção brasileira.
Sereias, amor e arte
Authors: Veiga Paulo Eduardo de Barros
Published: July 2019

Públio Ovídio Nasão (43 a.C. – 17 d. C.), poeta romano da época de Augusto (27 a. C. – 14 d. C.), escreveu a obra intitulada Ars amatoria ou, em português, a Arte de Amar, que se divide em três livros que tratam da sedução. Visa-se à percepção poética, mais especificamente, dos versos de número 311 a 328 do Livro III, nos quais o poeta, entremeando narrativas míticas, recomenda às mulheres o canto para fazer um homem apaixonar-se, como desejam. Levantam-se, também, outras referências míticas de tema semelhante: o poder da música, quer para seduzir, quer para transformar os ânimos.
FERNANDO PESSOA LEITOR DE PASCAL E O PROJETO DO LIVRO DO DESASSOSSEGO
Authors: Ribeiro Nuno , Souza Cláudia
Published: July 2019

O presente artigo visa explorar as relações entre Pascal e Pessoa tendo por base o impacto da obra do autor francês tanto na estruturação quanto nas temáticas presentes ao longo do projeto do Livro do Desassossego. Com efeito, na Biblioteca Particular de Pessoa encontramos livros de e sobre Pascal que se encontram sublinhados e anotados pelo autor português e nos possibilitam certificar o interesse de Pessoa pelo pensamento pascaliano. Para além disso, o espólio de Pessoa oferece-nos um conjunto de fragmentos que nos permitem elucidar até que ponto a leitura da obra de Pascal viria a ser importante para a elaboração dos fragmentos do Livro do Desassossego. Assim, tendo por base a análise da presença do nome e do pensamento de Pascal em fragmentos do espólio de Pessoa, o presente artigo explicita qual o papel da leitura pessoana de Pascal na elaboração do projeto do Livro do Desassossego