bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimally Invasive Medial Plating of Low-Energy Lisfranc Injuries: Preliminary Experience with Five Cases
Authors: del Vecchio Jorge Javier , Ghioldi Mauricio , Raimondi Nicolás , De Elias Manuel
Published: May 2016

Fracture dislocations involving the Lisfranc joint are rare; they represent only 0.2% of all the fractures. There is no consensus about the surgical management of these lesions in the medical literature. However, both anatomical reduction and tarsometatarsal stabilization are essential for a good outcome. In this clinical study, five consecutive patients with a diagnosis of Lisfranc low-energy lesion were treated with a novel surgical technique characterized by minimal osteosynthesis performed through a minimally invasive approach. According to the radiological criteria established, the joint reduction wasanatomicalin four patients,almost anatomicalin one patient (#4), andnonanatomicalin none of the patients. At the final follow-up, the AOFAS score for the midfoot was 96 points (range, 95–100). The mean score according to the VAS (Visual Analog Scale) at the end of the follow-up period was 1.4 points over 10 (range, 0–3). The surgical technique described in this clinical study is characterized by the use of implants with the utilization of a novel approach to reduce joint and soft tissue damage. We performed a closed reduction and minimally invasive stabilization with a bridge plate and a screw after achieving a closed anatomical reduction.
Development of Deflection Prediction Model for Concrete Block Pavement Considering the Block Shapes and Construction Patterns
Authors: Lin Wuguang , Cho Yoon-ho , Kim In Tai
Published: May 2016

Concrete block pavement (CBP) is distinct from typical concrete or asphalt pavements. It is built by using individual blocks with unique construction patterns forming a discrete surface layer to bear traffic loadings. The surface structure of CBP varies depending on the block shapes and construction patterns, so it is hard to apply a general equivalent elastic modulus estimation method to define the surface structural strength. In this study, FEM analysis and dynamic loading test were carried out to develop a deflection prediction model for CBP considering the block shapes and construction patterns. Based on the analysis results, it was found that block shapes did not have much effect on load distribution, whereas construction patterns did. By applying the deflection prediction model to the rutting model for CBP proposed by Sun, the herringbone bond pattern showed the best performance comparing with stretcher bond or basket weave bond pattern. As the load repetition increased to 1.2 million, the rutting depth of CBP constructed by herringbone bond pattern was 2 mm smaller than those constructed by the other two patterns.
Reverse Revenue Sharing Contract versus Two-Part Tariff Contract under a Closed-Loop Supply Chain System
Authors: Shi Zunya , Wang Nengmin , Jia Tao , Chen Haoxun
Published: May 2016

The importance of remanufacturing has been recognized in research and practice. The integrated system, combining the forward and reverse activities of supply chains, is called closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) system. By coordination in the CLSC system, players will get economic improvement. This paper studies different coordination performances of two types of contracts, two-part tariff (TTC) and reverse revenue sharing contract (RRSC), in a closed-loop system. Through mathematical analysis based on Stackelberg Game Theory, we find that it is easy for manufacturer to improve more profits and retailer’s collection effects by adjusting the ratio of transfer collection price through RRSC, and we also give the function to calculate the best ratio of transfer collection price, which may be a valuable reference for the decision maker in practice. Besides, our results also suggest that although the profits of the coordinated CLSC system are always higher than the contradictory scenario, the RRSC is more favorable to the manufacturer than to the retailer, as results show that the manufacturer will share more profits from the system through RRSC. Therefore, RRSC has attracted the manufacturers more to closing the supply chain for economic consideration.
Cardiorenal Involvement in Metabolic Syndrome Induced by Cola Drinking in Rats: Proinflammatory Cytokines and Impaired Antioxidative Protection
Authors: Otero-Losada Matilde , Gómez Llambí Hernán , Ottaviano Graciela , Cao Gabriel , Müller Angélica , Azzato Francisco , Ambrosio Giuseppe , Milei José
Published: May 2016

We report experimental evidence confirming renal histopathology, proinflammatory mediators, and oxidative metabolism induced by cola drinking. Male Wistar rats drankad libitumregular cola (C,n=12) or tap water (W,n=12).Measures.Body weight, nutritional data, plasma glucose, cholesterol fractions, TG, urea, creatinine, coenzyme Q10, SBP, and echocardiograms (0 mo and 6 mo). At 6 months euthanasia was performed. Kidneys were processed for histopathology and immunohistochemistry (semiquantitative). Compared with W, C rats showed (I) overweight (+8%,p<0.05), hyperglycemia (+11%,p<0.05), hypertriglyceridemia (2-fold,p<0.001), higher AIP (2-fold,p<0.01), and lower Q10level (−55%,p<0.05); (II) increased LV diastolic diameter (+9%,p<0.05) and volume (systolic +24%,p<0.05), posterior wall thinning (−8%,p<0.05), and larger cardiac output (+24%,p<0.05); (III) glomerulosclerosis (+21%,p<0.05), histopathology (+13%,p<0.05), higher tubular expression of IL-6 (7-fold,p<0.001), and TNFα(4-fold,p<0.001). (IV) Correlations were found for LV dimensions with IL-6 (74%,p<0.001) and TNFα(52%,p<0.001) and fully abolished after TG and Q10control. Chronic cola drinking induced cardiac remodeling associated with increase in proinflammatory cytokines and renal damage. Hypertriglyceridemia and oxidative stress were key factors. Hypertriglyceridemic lipotoxicity in the context of defective antioxidant/anti-inflammatory protection due to low Q10level might play a key role in cardiorenal disorder induced by chronic cola drinking in rats.
Comparison of Healthcare Workers Transferring Patients Using Either Conventional Or Robotic Wheelchairs: Kinematic, Electromyographic, and Electrocardiographic Analyses
Authors: Matsumoto Hiromi , Ueki Masaru , Uehara Kazutake , Noma Hisashi , Nozawa Nobuko , Osaki Mari , Hagino Hiroshi
Published: May 2016

Objectives. The aim of this study was to compare the musculoskeletal and physical strain on healthcare workers, by measuring range of motion (ROM), muscle activity, and heart rate (HR), during transfer of a simulated patient using either a robotic wheelchair (RWC) or a conventional wheelchair (CWC).Methods. The subjects were 10 females who had work experience in transferring patients and another female adult as the simulated patient to be transferred from bed to a RWC or a CWC. In both experimental conditions, ROM, muscle activity, and HR were assessed in the subjects using motion sensors, electromyography, and electrocardiograms.Results. Peak ROM of shoulder flexion during assistive transfer with the RWC was significantly lower than that with the CWC. Values for back muscle activity during transfer were lower with the RWC than with the CWC.Conclusions. The findings suggest that the RWC may decrease workplace injuries and lower back pain in healthcare workers.
Recurrent Thyrotoxicosis due to Both Graves’ Disease and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis in the Same Three Patients
Authors: Schaffer Ashley , Puthenpura Vidya , Marshall Ian
Published: May 2016

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) and Graves’ disease (GD) are the 2 most common autoimmune disease processes affecting the thyroid gland. The relationship between the two is complex and not clearly understood. It has been theorized that HT and GD are 2 separate disease processes due to unique genetic differences demonstrated by genome studies. On the other hand, based on occurrence of both HT and GD in monozygotic twins and within the same family, they have been regarded to represent 2 ends of the same spectrum. This case report describes 3 patients who presented with thyrotoxicosis due to both GD and HT. The initial presentation was thyrotoxicosis due to GD treated with antithyroid medication followed by temporary resolution. They all subsequently experienced recurrence of thyrotoxicosis in the form of Hashitoxicosis due to HT, and then eventually all developed thyrotoxicosis due to GD, requiring radioablation therapy.
Biochemical Characterization of Liver Oil ofEchinorhinus brucus(Bramble Shark) and Its Cytotoxic Evaluation on Neuroblastoma Cell Lines (SHSY-5Y)
Authors: Venugopal Vishnu , Kumaran Ajeeshkumar Kizhakkepurath , Sekhar Chatterjee Niladri , Kumar Suvanish , Kavilakath Shyni , Nair Jayarani Ramachandran , Mathew Suseela
Published: May 2016

The objective of the present study was to characterize the liver oil extracted from the deep sea shark,Echinorhinus brucus, caught from Central Indian Ocean and to evaluate its cytotoxic effect on neuroblastoma cell line (SHSY-5Y). Characterization of liver oil ofEchinorhinus brucusrevealed the presence of palmitic acid (15%), oleic acid (12%), stearic acid (8%), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (18%), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (16%). It was also found to be a good source of squalene (38.5%) and fat soluble vitamins such as A, D, and K (vitamin A: 17.08 mg/100 g of oil, vitamin D: 15.04 mg/100 g oil, and vitamin K: 11.45 mg/100 g oil). Since it was found to be rich in essential fatty acids, fat soluble vitamins, and squalene, it can be considered as better dietary supplement. The oil ofEchinorhinus brucusalso showed highin vitrocytotoxic effect against the human neuroblastoma cell line (SHSY-5Y) and the IC50value laid between 35 and 45 ng.
Influence of Hydrological Model Selection on Simulation of Moderate and Extreme Flow Events: A Case Study of the Blue Nile Basin
Authors: Onyutha Charles
Published: May 2016

Five hydrological models were applied based on data from the Blue Nile Basin. Optimal parameters of each model were obtained by automatic calibration. Model performance was tested under both moderate and extreme flow conditions. Extreme events for the model performance evaluation were extracted based on seven criteria. Apart from graphical techniques, there were nine statistical “goodness-of-fit” metrics used to judge the model performance. It was found that whereas the influence of model selection may be minimal in the simulation of normal flow events, it can lead to large under- and/or overestimations of extreme events. Besides, the selection of the best model for extreme events may be influenced by the choice of the statistical “goodness-of-fit” measures as well as the criteria for extraction of high and low flows. It was noted that the use of overall water-balance-based objective function not only is suitable for moderate flow conditions but also influences the models to perform better for high flows than low flows. Thus, the choice of a particular model is recommended to be made on a case by case basis with respect to the objectives of the modeling as well as the results from evaluation of the intermodel differences.
Enhanced Heavy Oil Recovery in Mild Conditions bySO42-/TiO2-ZrO2Solid Superacid Prepared by Different Methods
Authors: Li Chen , Su Lu , Li Qiuye , Wang Xiaodong , Li Xiaohong , Yang Jianjun , Zhang Zhijun
Published: May 2016

The important key of heavy oil efficient exploring is to decrease the viscosity and increase the flowability. Solid acid catalyst is one of the commonly used catalysts to reducing the viscosity of heavy oil, but good dispersion in oil phase and better catalytic activity are difficult to achieve. Herein, ZrO2-TiO2was selected as the fundamental catalyst because of its superior solid superacid properties, and CTAB was selected as the surfactant package coat to help enhance catalytic activity. The as-prepared catalysts were characterized systematically by TEM, XRD, FTIR, and N2adsorption-desorption isotherms measurement. The reduction efficiency of the heavy oil viscosity achieved as high as 66.3% at 180°C. At the same time, the portion of asphaltenes and resins slipped down by 4.93% and 3.78%, respectively, while saturated and aromatic hydrocarbon component increased by 5.37% and 3.26%, respectively, indicating that our catalyst showed a good activity for reducing the viscosity and improving the quality of heavy crude oil.
A New Wind Power Forecasting Approach Based on Conjugated Gradient Neural Network
Authors: Li Tian , Li Yongqian , Liao Mingwei , Wang Weikang , Zeng Chujie
Published: May 2016

Prediction of the output power of wind plants is of great significance for running a power system comprising large amount of wind generators. According to the prediction results, it is possible to determine the quotas of power generation in power generators and distribute resources in a scientific and reasonable way. In the past, the Grey Neural Network was widely applied in predicting wind power while it could hardly meet the engineering requirements due to the structure of ANN. The problem of slow convergence speed and large amount of iterations, especially in case of large scale data, would pose challenges to power prediction and the sensitivity of automatic control. This paper optimizes ANN model by applying conjugate gradient descent and creating Conjugated Gradient Neural Network (CGNN) in weights updating process. Experiments performed on different scale datasets have proved that the performance of CGNN improves substantially as the average iterations decreased by almost 90% without the sacrifice of prediction accuracy.
Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome Presenting with JMML-Like Blood Picture and Normal Sized Platelets
Authors: Patil Rajesh B. , Shanmukhaiah Chandrakala , Jijina Farah , Bamborde Shailesh , Wasekar Nilesh , Toshniwal Manoj , Mohite Aniket , Patil Vinod
Published: May 2016

Objective. The aim of this paper is to report the case of Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) that presented with unusual laboratory features.Clinical Presentation and Intervention. Male neonate admitted with symptoms related to thrombocytopenia, whose initial diagnosis was considered as neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia and JMML (juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia) but subsequently diagnosis was confirmed as WAS.Conclusion. This case shows that a suspicion of WAS is warranted in the setting of neonatal thrombocytopenia with JMML-like blood picture and normal sized platelets.
Influence of Insulin Resistance and TNF‐α on the Inflammatory Process, Oxidative Stress, and Disease Activity in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Costa Neide Tomimura , Veiga Iriyoda Tatiana Mayumi , Kallaur Ana Paula , Delongui Francieli , Alfieri Daniela Frizon , Lozovoy Marcell Alysson Batisti , Amin Ricardo Braga , Delfino Vinicius Daher Alvares , Dichi Isaias , Simão Andréa Name Colado
Published: May 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the involvement of TNF‐α and insulin resistance (IR) in the inflammatory process, oxidative stress, and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This cross‐sectional study included 270 subjects (control group, n = 97) and RA patients (n = 173). RA patients were divided into four groups: the first group without IR and not using antitumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF−) (G1, IR− TNF−); the second group without IR and using anti‐TNF‐α (G2, IR− TNF+); the third group with IR and not using anti‐TNF‐α (G3, IR+ TNF−); and the fourth group with IR and using anti‐TNF‐α (G4, IR+ TNF+). G3 and G4 had higher (p < 0.05) advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) and oxidative stress index (OSI) compared to G1. G4 group presented higher (p < 0.05) AOPPs and OSI than G2. TRAP was significantly lower in G3 compared to G1. Plasma TNF‐α levels were significantly higher in G4 and G2 compared to G1 (p < 0.0001) and G3 (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.01, resp.). The presence of insulin resistance was robustly associated with both oxidative stress and TNF‐α levels. More studies are warranted to verify if IR can be involved in therapeutic failure with TNF‐α inhibitors. This trial is registered with Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry Register number RBR-2jvj92.
Therapeutic Effects of CUR-Activated Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells on 1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridine-Induced Parkinson’s Disease Cell Model
Authors: Jinfeng Li , Yunliang Wang , Xinshan Liu , Yutong Wang , Shanshan Wang , Peng Xue , Xiaopeng Yang , Zhixiu Xu , Qingshan Lu , Honglei Yin , Xia Cao , Hongwei Wang , Bingzhen Cao
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic effects of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSC) activated by curcumin (CUR) on PC12 cells induced by 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+), a cell model of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The supernatant of hUC-MSC and hUC-MSC activated by 5 µmol/L CUR (hUC-MSC-CUR) were collected in accordance with the same concentration. The cell proliferation and differentiation potential to dopaminergic neuronal cells and antioxidation were observed in PC12 cells after being treated with the above two supernatants and 5 µmol/L CUR. The results showed that the hUC-MSC-CUR could more obviously promote the proliferation and the expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and microtubule associated protein-2 (MAP2) and significantly decreased the expression of nitric oxide (NO) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in PC12 cells. Furtherly, cytokines detection gave a clue that the expression of IL-6, IL-10, and NGF was significantly higher in the group treated with the hUC-MSC-CUR compared to those of other two groups. Therefore, the hUC-MSC-CUR may be a potential strategy to promote the proliferation and differentiation of PD cell model, therefore providing new insights into a novel therapeutic approach in PD.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the CHAMPS Questionnaire in French Canadians with COPD
Authors: Mak Susanne , Soicher Judith E. , Mayo Nancy E. , Wood-Dauphinee Sharon , Bourbeau Jean
Published: May 2016

Physical activity is difficult to measure in individuals with COPD. The Community Healthy Activities Model Program for Seniors (CHAMPS) questionnaire demonstrated strong clinometric properties when used with the elderly and with those affected by chronic disease. Study objectives were to translate, culturally adapt the CHAMPS into French, and reexamine its test-retest reliability and construct validity in French and English Canadians with COPD. This paper presents the cross-cultural adaptation of the CHAMPS; results of its clinometric testing will be described in another article. The CHAMPS examines the degree of physical activity performed in a typical week through two summary scales, caloric expenditure and activity frequency. The CHAMPS was only in English; thus, a cross-cultural adaptation was needed to translate the CHAMPS into French for use in French Canadians with COPD. Cross-cultural adaptation consisted of forward and back translation, with expert review at each stage of translation: minor inconsistencies were uncovered and rectified. Five French participants with COPD completed the finalized Canadian French CHAMPS and participated in cognitive debriefing; no problematic items were identified. A structured and stepwise, cross-cultural adaptation process produced the Canadian French CHAMPS, with items of equivalent meaning to the English version, for use in French Canadians with COPD.
Filling Disks of Hayman Type of Meromorphic Functions
Authors: Wu Nan , Xuan Zuxing
Published: May 2016

We obtain the existence of the filling disks with respect to Hayman directions. We prove that, under the conditionlimsupr→∞⁡(Tr,f/log⁡r3)=∞, there exists a sequence of filling disks of Hayman type, and these filling disks can determine a Hayman direction. Every meromorphic function of positive and finite orderρhas a sequence of filling disks of Hayman type, which can also determine a Hayman direction of orderρ.
A Circuit-Model-Navigated Design Process and Efficiency Estimation for Short-Circuited Self-Excited EBG Resonator Antenna
Authors: Hosseini Mehdi
Published: May 2016

The paper presents a circuit model for the computationally efficient design of a planar Short-Circuited Self-Excited EBG Resonator Antenna (SC SE-EBG-RA). To this purpose, the same circuit model previously presented for the Open-Circuited version of the antenna is modified to be applicable to the SC version. Detailed HFSS modeling and simulation corroborate the accuracy of the model in predicting the antenna resonance. The efficiency of the designed antenna is calculated by a simulated Wheeler Cap Method (WCM) and is compared with the standard efficiency given by the numerical analyzer. The EM modeling is arranged so as to incorporate the effects of the SMA connector, discontinuities, and the WC, emulating a real WC measurement and yielding a high degree of confidence in the results. Overall, a small antenna sized0.34λ×0.30λ×0.03λwith 93% verified efficiency is achieved, which is also compiled with affordable manufacturing processes.
Purple Staining of Archaeological Human Bone: An Investigation of Probable Cause and Implications for Other Tissues and Artifacts
Authors: Cole Garrard , Waldron Tony
Published: May 2016

Excavations in the 1990s at the medieval Chapter House of Worcester Cathedral, UK, revealed medieval human skeletal remains, some of which exhibited a distinctive purple coloration. The nature of the colored bone was investigated using solvents for stain extraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), plane polarized (PPL) and cross-polarized (XPL) light microscopy, and auto fluorescence (AF) microscopy. Normal bone from the cemetery was used as a control. The color does not arise from a stain soluble in normal organic solvents. EDX and XRD analysis showed no significant difference between purple and normal bone. XRF analysis shows the presence of trace levels of iron, manganese, zinc, and copper in the affected material. This exhibited a pink color in acid phase and a blue color in alkaline phase. These two states were reversible. The alkaline phase gradually changed irreversibly to yellow over time. These data suggest that the coloration is consistent with the presence of high levels of purple acid phosphatase (PAP) enzyme. The presence of trace amounts of iron, manganese, zinc, and copper suggests a plant or fungal origin for the putative PAP, possibly a member of theAspergillus ficuumspecies.
Vascular Epiphytes in Doshke and Kurpaye: A Comparative Study, Gamo Gofa, Ethiopia
Authors: Getaneh Zeleke Assefa , Gamo Feleke Woldeyes
Published: May 2016

Epiphytes comprise about 10% of the world’s total flora. However, the survival of these important elements of the global vegetation is recognized to be increasingly threatened, and surveys made to study them remain far from being complete. This study has focused on investigating the vascular epiphytes (true epiphytes, hemiepiphytes, and accidental epiphytes) in Doshke and Kurpaye forests of Gamo Gofa zone, southwest Ethiopia. A total of 40 (20 in each) 25 m × 25 m quadrats were established along four line transects for vegetation data collection. A total of 35 species of vascular epiphytes were recorded in the two sites (22 and 14 species from Doshke and Kurpaye, resp.). Drynaria volkensii was the only species to be recorded from the two sites. Doshke and Kurpaye forests also varied in the number of phorophytes (17 and 10 phorophytes species, resp.). The richest epiphyte family of Doshke is Orchidaceae (5 species) and that of Kurpaye is Polypodiaceae (3 species) while Orchidaceae dominate the combined flora being represented by 7 species. In terms of vertical distribution, most species were located at the canopy area. Most vascular epiphytes showed no preference for host trees except for a few species which exhibited higher occurrence rates on the host plant species Syzygium guineense, Schrebera alata, and Acacia tortilis. Vascular epiphyte abundance and species richness were both significantly positively correlated with host tree size. Vascular epiphytes of the studied forests are under a serious pressure, mainly due to anthropogenic activities, and this may lead to their local extinction.
Solving Some Special Cases of Monomial Ratio Equations Appearing Frequently in Physical and Engineering Problems
Authors: Castillo Enrique , Nogal Maria , Lozano-Galant Jose Antonio , Turmo Jose
Published: May 2016

We first show that monomial ratio equations are not only very common in Physics and Engineering, but the natural type of equations in many practical problems. More precisely, in the case of models involving scale variables if the used formulas are not of this type they are not physically valid. The consequence is that when estimating the model parameters we are faced with systems of monomial ratio equations that are nonlinear and difficult to solve. In this paper, we provide an original algorithm to obtain the unique solutions of systems of equations made of linear combinations of monomial ratios whose coefficient matrix has a proper null space with low dimension that permits solving the problem in a simple way. Finally, we illustrate the proposed methods by their application to two practical problems from the hydraulic and structural fields.
Antitumor Efficacy of Radiation plus Immunotherapy Depends upon Dendritic Cell Activation of Effector CD8+ T Cells
Authors: Dovedi Simon J. , Lipowska-Bhalla Grazyna , Beers Stephen A. , Cheadle Eleanor J. , Mu Lijun , Glennie Martin J. , Illidge Timothy M. , Honeychurch Jamie
Published: May 2016

Tumor cells dying after cytotoxic therapy are a potential source of antigen for T-cell priming. Antigen-presenting cells (APC) can cross-present MHC I–restricted peptides after the uptake of dying cells. Depending on the nature of the surrounding environmental signals, APCs then orchestrate a spectrum of responses ranging from immune activation to inhibition. Previously, we had demonstrated that combining radiation with either agonistic monoclonal antibody (mAb) to CD40 or a systemically administered TLR7 agonist could enhance CD8 T-cell–dependent protection against syngeneic murine lymphoma models. However, it remains unknown how individual APC populations affect this antitumor immune response. Using APC depletion models, we now show that dendritic cells (DC), but not macrophages or B cells, were responsible for the generation of long-term immunologic protection following combination therapy with radiotherapy and either agonistic CD40 mAb or systemic TLR7 agonist therapy. Novel immunotherapeutic approaches that augment antigen uptake and presentation by DCs may further enhance the generation of therapeutic antitumor immune responses, leading to improved outcomes after radiotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(7); 621–30. ©2016 AACR.
Paediatric Cochlear Implantation in Patients with Waardenburg Syndrome
Authors: van Nierop Josephine W.I. , Snabel Rebecca R. , Langereis Margreet , Pennings Ronald J.E. , Admiraal Ronald J.C. , Mylanus Emmanuel A.M. , Kunst Henricus P.M.
Published: May 2016

Objective: To analyse the benefit of cochlear implantation in young deaf children with Waardenburg syndrome (WS) compared to a reference group of young deaf children without additional disabilities. Method: A retrospective study was conducted on children with WS who underwent cochlear implantation at the age of 2 years or younger. The post-operative results for speech perception (phonetically balanced standard Dutch consonant-vocal-consonant word lists) and language comprehension (the Reynell Developmental Language Scales, RDLS), expressed as a language quotient (LQ), were compared between the WS group and the reference group by using multiple linear regression analysis. Results: A total of 14 children were diagnosed with WS, and 6 of them had additional disabilities. The WS children were implanted at a mean age of 1.6 years and the 48 children of the reference group at a mean age of 1.3 years. The WS children had a mean phoneme score of 80% and a mean LQ of 0.74 at 3 years post-implantation, and these results were comparable to those of the reference group. Only the factor additional disabilities had a significant negative influence on auditory perception and language comprehension. Conclusions: Children with WS performed similarly to the reference group in the present study, and these outcomes are in line with the previous literature. Although good counselling about additional disabilities concomitant to the syndrome is relevant, cochlear implantation is a good rehabilitation method for children with WS.
Rare Genetic Forms of Obesity: Clinical Approach and Current Treatments in 2016
Authors: Huvenne Hélène , Dubern Béatrice , Clément Karine , Poitou Christine
Published: May 2016

Obesity results from a synergistic relationship between genes and the environment. The phenotypic expression of genetic factors involved in obesity is variable, allowing to distinguish several clinical pictures of obesity. Monogenic obesity is described as rare and severe early-onset obesity with abnormal feeding behavior and endocrine disorders. This is mainly due to autosomal recessive mutations in genes of the leptin-melanocortin pathway which plays a key role in the hypothalamic control of food intake. Melanocortin 4 receptor(MC4R)-linked obesity is characterized by the variable severity of obesity and no notable additional phenotypes. Mutations in the MC4R gene are involved in 2-3% of obese children and adults; the majority of these are heterozygous. Syndromic obesity is associated with mental retardation, dysmorphic features, and organ-specific developmental abnormalities. Additional genes participating in the development of hypothalamus and central nervous system have been regularly identified. But to date, not all involved genes have been identified so far. New diagnostic tools, such as whole-exome sequencing, will probably help to identify other genes. Managing these patients is challenging. Indeed, specific treatments are available only for specific types of monogenic obesity, such as leptin deficiency. Data on bariatric surgery are limited and controversial. New molecules acting on the leptin-melanocortin pathway are currently being developed.
In vitro Efficacy of Experimental Chitosan-Containing Solutions as Anti-Erosive Agents in Enamel
Authors: Pini N.I.P. , Lima D.A.N.L. , Lovadino J.R. , Ganss C. , Schlueter N.
Published: May 2016

The present study evaluated the effect of chitosans with different viscosities, dissolved in an AmF/SnCl2 solution, against erosion or erosion/abrasion. A total of 192 specimens were assigned to 2 × 6 groups (n = 16 specimens each): negative control, 4 chitosan solutions (groups Ch50, Ch500, Ch1000, and Ch2000, with viscosity of 50, 500, 1,000, or 2,000 mPas, respectively, 0.5% chitosan, 500 ppm F-, 800 ppm Sn2+, pH 4.4), and positive control (500 ppm F-, 800 ppm Sn2+, pH 4.3). One half of the groups was demineralized (experiment 1, E1; 10 days, 6 × 2 min/day, 0.5% citric acid, pH 2.8) and exposed to solutions (2 × 2 min/day); the other half was additionally brushed (15 s, 200 g) with non-fluoridated toothpaste before solution immersion (experiment 2, E2). Treatment effects were investigated by profilometry, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In E1, all the chitosan-containing solutions reduced enamel loss by 77-80%, to the same extent as the positive control, except for Ch2000 (p ≤ 0.05), which completely inhibited tissue loss by the formation of precipitates. In E2, Ch50 and Ch500 showed best performance, with approximately 60% reduction of tissue loss compared to the negative control group (p ≤ 0.05 compared to other groups). SEM analysis showed differences between negative control and the other groups but only minor differences amongst the groups treated with active agents. In both E1 and E2, treatment with active agents resulted in surface enrichment of carbon and tin compared to negative control (p ≤ 0.001); brushing removed parts of carbon and tin (p ≤ 0.001). Chitosan shows different properties under erosive and erosive/abrasive conditions. Under erosive conditions high viscosity might be helpful, whereas lower viscosity seems to be more effective in cases of chemo-mechanical challenges.
Global Epidemiology of Head and Neck Cancers: A Continuing Challenge
Authors: Gupta Bhawna , Johnson Newell W. , Kumar Narinder
Published: May 2016

Background: Head and neck cancers (HNCs) continue to remain a significant public health burden worldwide, causing significant mortality and morbidity despite significant clinical advances enabling their early diagnosis and treatment. Methods: We used data from the GLOBOCAN 2012, Cancer Incidence in Five Continents, World Health Organization Mortality Database and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results programmes to describe the current epidemiology of HNCs. Results: Estimated age-standardised incidence/mortality rates for cancers of the lip and oral cavity among males and females (7.0/2.3 and 2.6/0.6 per 100,000 per annum) in more developed regions are higher compared to those in less developed regions (5.0/2.8 and 2.5/1.4 per 100,000 per annum). Similarly, the estimated rates for cancers of the tonsils and pharynx among males (7.5/2.5 per 100,000 per annum) and females (2.7/0.5 per 100,000 per annum) are reported to be the highest in Western Europe, whereas these rates for cancer of the larynx among males (7.9/4.0 per 100,000 per annum) and females (0.9/0.5 per 100,000 per annum) are reported to be the highest in the Caribbean. Cancer of the nasopharynx represents a significant HNC burden in the Asia-Pacific region and Northern Africa. Conclusion: The current and future estimated burden of HNCs is shifting to less developed regions which may be ill equipped to deal with this increasing burden. This needs urgent attention of policy makers through effective cancer control policy implementation with population-based interventions.
Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor-4 Alfa Mutation Associated with Hyperinsulinaemic Hypoglycaemia and Atypical Renal Fanconi Syndrome: Expanding the Clinical Phenotype
Authors: Improda Nicola , Shah Pratik , Güemes Maria , Gilbert Clare , Morgan Kate , Sebire Neil , Bockenhauer Detlef , Hussain Khalid
Published: May 2016

Background: The p.R63W mutation in the hepatocyte nuclear factor-4 alpha (HNF4A) results in macrosomia and atypical Fanconi syndrome, in addition to hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia (HI). We describe 2 infants carrying this mutation, presenting with additional features. Cases Series: Patient 1, a male born with a birth weight of 1.7 SDS, was diagnosed with HI on day 2 of life. He responded to 3-10 mg/kg/day of diazoxide. Raised serum creatinine led to the investigation of renal tubular function, showing leaking of electrolytes and protein. The patient also had conjugated hyperbilirubinaemia with liver steatosis. Patient 2 was a male born with a weight of 0.36 SDS. His mother had renal Fanconi syndrome. He received parenteral nutrition and presented with HI at 1 month of age, while establishing enteral feeds. Biochemistry workup showed renal tubular leaking of calcium, sodium, and phosphate. A hypoglycaemia screen documented HI, and the patient was commenced on 2 mg/kg/day of diazoxide. Continuous glucose monitoring was performed in his mother, revealing overnight hypoglycaemia. Conclusion: Renal Fanconi syndrome represents the only HNF4A feature showing complete penetrance. Our cases suggest that the p.R63W HNF4A mutation must be considered in subjects with a normal birth weight and postulate the possibility of liver involvement as a part of this condition.
Methadone-Related Overdose Deaths in a Liberal Opioid Maintenance Treatment Programme
Authors: Tjagvad Christian , Skurtveit Svetlana , Linnet Kristian , Andersen Ljubica Vukelic , Christoffersen Dorte J. , Clausen Thomas
Published: May 2016

Background/Aims: Increasing rates of overdose deaths involving opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) medications and particularly methadone have been observed concurrently with the implementation of liberal OMT strategies (i.e. minimum of control and high doses prescribed). This study examined methadone-related overdose deaths in a liberal OMT programme. Methods: Drug-overdose deaths (n = 130) with detection of methadone in Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense Municipality, Denmark, during the period 2008-2011 were identified from a registry. Cases with and without prescribed methadone as OMT were compared. Treatment delivery strategy among OMT-prescribed methadone cases was investigated. Results: Methadone was detected in 130 overdose deaths (71.4% of all overdose deaths). Among these, 63.1% were receiving methadone maintenance treatment. Of these, 79.3% had co-detection of benzodiazepines. Concomitant detection of heroin, non-prescribed benzodiazepines, and younger age were associated with having non-prescribed methadone in the toxicological findings (adjusted OR 3.1, 4.0 and 9.5, respectively). Of the decedents, 43.8% were prescribed a higher methadone dose than recommended (>120 mg daily), of which 80.0% did not have supervised intake of methadone. Conclusions: Liberal OMT access does not necessarily prevent overdose deaths overall. Prescription of higher doses of methadone combined with benzodiazepines may result in an increased risk of overdose for individuals in as well as outside OMT.
Integration of Quantitative Positron Emission Tomography Absolute Myocardial Blood Flow Measurements in the Clinical Management of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Gewirtz Henry , Dilsizian Vasken
Published: May 2016

In the >40 years since planar myocardial imaging with
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K-potassium was introduced into clinical research and management of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), diagnosis and treatment have undergone profound scientific and technological changes. One such innovation is the current state-of-the-art hardware and software for positron emission tomography myocardial perfusion imaging, which has advanced it from a strictly research-oriented modality to a clinically valuable tool. This review traces the evolving role of quantitative positron emission tomography measurements of myocardial blood flow in the evaluation and management of patients with CAD. It presents methodology, currently or soon to be available, that offers a paradigm shift in CAD management. Heretofore, radionuclide myocardial perfusion imaging has been primarily qualitative or at best semiquantitative in nature, assessing regional perfusion in relative terms. Thus, unlike so many facets of modern cardiovascular practice and CAD management, which depend, for example, on absolute values of key parameters such as arterial and left ventricular pressures, serum lipoprotein, and other biomarker levels, the absolute levels of rest and maximal myocardial blood flow have yet to be incorporated into routine clinical practice even in most positron emission tomography centers where the potential to do so exists. Accordingly, this review focuses on potential value added for improving clinical CAD practice by measuring the absolute level of rest and maximal myocardial blood flow. Physiological principles and imaging fundamentals necessary to understand how positron emission tomography makes robust, quantitative measurements of myocardial blood flow possible are highlighted.
Closer to the Finish Line? Compulsory Attendance, Grade Attainment, and High School Graduation
Authors: Moussa Wael S.
Published: May 2016

High school graduation rates are a central policy topic in the United States and have been shown to be stagnant for the past three decades. Using student-level administrative data from New York City Public Schools, I examine the impact of compulsory school attendance on high school graduation rates and grade attainment, focusing the analysis on ninth and tenth grade cohorts. I exploit the interaction between the school start-age cutoff and compulsory attendance age requirement to identify the effect of compulsory schooling. I find that an additional year in compulsory attendance leads to an increase of 9 to 12 percent in the probability of progressing to grades 11 and 12, and raises the probability of graduating from high school by 9 to 14 percent, depending on the specification.
Memory-reliant Post-error Slowing Is Associated with Successful Learning and Fronto-occipital Activity
Authors: Schiffler Björn C. , Almeida Rita , Granqvist Mathias , Bengtsson Sara L.
Published: May 2016

Negative feedback after an action in a cognitive task can lead to devaluing that action on future trials as well as to more cautious responding when encountering that same choice again. These phenomena have been explored in the past by reinforcement learning theories and cognitive control accounts, respectively. Yet, how cognitive control interacts with value updating to give rise to adequate adaptations under uncertainty is less clear. In this fMRI study, we investigated cognitive control-based behavioral adjustments during a probabilistic reinforcement learning task and studied their influence on performance in a later test phase in which the learned value of items is tested. We provide support for the idea that functionally relevant and memory-reliant behavioral adjustments in the form of post-error slowing during reinforcement learning are associated with test performance. Adjusting response speed after negative feedback was correlated with BOLD activity in right inferior frontal gyrus and bilateral middle occipital cortex during the event of receiving the feedback. Bilateral middle occipital cortex activity overlapped partly with activity reflecting feedback deviance from expectations as measured by unsigned prediction error. These results suggest that cognitive control and feature processing cortical regions interact to implement feedback-congruent adaptations beneficial to learning.
New records of decapod crustaceans in the eastern Pacific
Authors: Hendrickx Michel E. , Wicksten Mary K.
Published: May 2016

New records are provided for four species of decapod crustaceans in the eastern Pacific.Hymenopenaeus nereus(Faxon, 1893) was collected further north and further from the coast than previously known. The distribution ofHeterocarpus hostilisFaxon, 1893 is extended from off Panama to off Mexico.Parhippolyte cavernicolaWicksten, 1996, previously known only from the type locality in the Gulf of California, Mexico, has been found in a cave in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.Moloha faxoni(Schmitt, 1921) is reported for the first time within the Gulf of California, Mexico.
GSK3β is involved in the spermatogenesis of the Chinese mitten crab Eriocheir sinensis H. Milne Edwards, 1853
Authors: Duan Zelin , Li Qing , Li Xuejie , He Lin , Wang Qun
Published: May 2016

Glycogen synthase kinase3β (GSK3β) is a Serine/Threonine kinase involved in metabolic reactions, and the Wnt, Akt, Hedgehog and BMP/Smad1 signalling pathways. It regulates cell metabolism, the cell cycle and cell fate through the phosphorylation of a diverse array of substrates. Its disorders lead to testicular degeneration, testicular cord disruption and many other reproductive diseases that often lead to infertility. In mammals, GSK3β plays an important role in the regulation of spermatogenesis. To explore functions of GSK3β during spermatogenesis inEriocheir sinensiswe cloned the full-lengthGSK3β cDNA sequence from the testis ofE. sinensis(EsGSK3β). The 1161-nucleotide open reading frame encodes a 386-amino-acid protein with a predicted molecular mass of 43 kDa. Additionally, we examined the expression pattern of EsGSK3β in different tissues and testis developmental stages using real-time PCR and Western blotting. Localization analysis ofEsGSK3β RNA and protein by in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence, respectively, showed that molecules translocated from the cytoplasm and nucleus to the regions of the acrosomal tubule and apical cap during spermatogenesis. The results indicated that EsGSK3β might play an important role duringE. sinensisspermatogenesis.
Resource Dependence and Government-ngo Relationship in China
Authors: Wang Qun , Yao Yanran
Published: May 2016

As the civil society and corporatism theories have been frequently challenged recently, alternative theories emerged to investigate the government-ngo relationship in China. Some new theories are largely related to resource dependence or share core ideas with it. This paper conducts a comprehensive review of the resource dependence theory. It identifies four groups of variables (organizational characteristics, board of directors, attitude and value, and external environment), finds support for their relevance from both Western and China scholarship, and applies them to the Chinese context. The resource dependence theory has the potential of empirically examining the relationship without over-focusing on the state or society. It is capable of explaining the dynamic and diverse relationships between the government and various ngos in China.
Ooencyrtus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), egg parasitoids of the pistachio green stink bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in Iran
Authors: HAYAT MOHAMMAD , MEHRNEJAD M. REZA
Published: May 2016

This paper deals with three species of Ooencyrtus Ashmead (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) obtained from eggs of the green stink bug, Brachynema germarii (Kolenati) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) infesting pistachio plants in Iran. Two new species, Ooencyrtus iranicus Hayat & Mehrnejad, sp. nov. and O. pistaciae Hayat & Mehrnejad, sp. nov., are described, and O. telenomicida (Vassiliev) is newly recorded from Iran, redescribed and illustrated. A key to some species considered similar to the species treated here is also given.
A new species of Trichomycterus (Siluriformes: Trichomycteridae) from the upper río Magdalena basin, Colombia
Authors: GARCÍA-MELO LUIS J. , VILLA-NAVARRO FRANCISCO A. , DONASCIMIENTO CARLOS
Published: May 2016

Trichomycterus tetuanensis, new species, is described from the río Tetuan, upper río Magdalena basin in Colombia. The new species is distinguished by its margin of caudal fin conspicuously emarginate, in combination with a high number of opercular odontodes (21–39), reflected externally in the large size of the opercular patch of odontodes, 3 irregular rows of conic teeth in the upper jaw, 42–52 interopercular odontodes, 8 branchiostegal rays, 37 post Weberian vertebrae, 7 branched pectoral-fin rays, hypural 3 separated from hypural plate 4+5, and background coloration light brown with darker dots uniformly sparse on dorsum and sides of trunk. Some apomorphic characters informative for the phylogenetic affinities of the new species within Trichomycterus are discussed.
Phanoceroides Hinton, 1939: description of new species, morphology of larvae, and revised taxonomic position of the genus (Coleoptera: Elmidae)
based on molecular evidence
Authors: ČIAMPOR FEDOR Jr , LAŠŠOVÁ KRISTÍNA , MAIER CRYSTAL A. , ČIAMPOROVÁ-ZAŤOVIČOVÁ ZUZANA , KODADA JÁN
Published: May 2016

The monotypic genus Phanoceroides was initially classified within the subfamily Elminae, based solely on the distribution and type of pubescence on the body surface. Although a close relationship with Larainae was suggested (Hinton 1939, Maier 2013), its taxonomic position and phylogeny remained unresolved. Based on newly collected material, we describe here P. fernandesi sp. n. and document morphological characters and differences of adults and larvae of P. aquaticus Hinton, 1939 and P. fernandesi sp. n. To clarify the taxonomic position of Phanoceroides within Elmidae, we used molecular data (cox1 and mtDNA). The results support position of the genus within the subfamily Larainae with Hypsilara Maier & Spangler, 2011 as a close relative.