bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution and current status of mhealth research: a systematic review
Authors: Ali Eskinder Eshetu , Chew Lita , Yap Kevin Yi-Lwern
Published: February 2016

This systematic review provides a chronological overview of how mhealth research has evolved with changes in mobile technologies. The review involved a PubMed search complemented by manual searching of all issues of theJournal of Medical Internet ResearchandTelemedicine Journal and eHealth, from inception to January 2015. Articles reporting the evaluation of mhealth interventions in any patient group for any health-related outcomes were analysed without restrictions on the study design. A total of 3476 publications were obtained from the PubMed search and manual searching of eHealth journals. Analysis was based on an abstract review of 515 (14.8%) original research articles, which fulfilled preset inclusion criteria. Three distinct time periods were identified on the basis of mobile devices used in mhealth research. Personal digital assistants (PDAs) dominated mhealth research in the years before 2007 (17 of 33 articles, 51.5%). Basic and feature phones were the main methods of mhealth intervention from 2007 to 2012 (95 of 193 articles, 49.2%). After 2012, smart devices (smartphones, tablet PCs and iPod touches) were highly used in mhealth research (173 of 289 articles, 59.9%). Despite a growing focus on infectious diseases and maternal and child health in the most recent years, non-communicable conditions continued to overshadow the trend of mhealth research. Overall, mHealth research has evolved over the past decade in terms of the mobile devices employed, health conditions addressed and its purpose. While chronic medical conditions have clearly been the focus of mhealth research, a shift in trends is expected as the application of mhealth interventions spreads to other under-studied areas. Future research should continue to leverage on the advancements and ubiquitous nature of mobile devices to make healthcare accessible to all.
Development of a Health Empowerment Programme to improve the health of working poor families: protocol for a prospective cohort study in Hong Kong
Authors: Fung Colman Siu Cheung , Yu Esther Yee Tak , Guo Vivian Yawei , Wong Carlos King Ho , Kung Kenny , Ho Sin Yi , Lam Lai Ying , Ip Patrick , Fong Daniel Yee Tak , Lam David Chi Leung , Wong William Chi Wai , Tsang Sandra Kit Man , Tiwari Agnes Fung Yee , Lam Cindy Lo Kuen
Published: February 2016

Introduction

People from working poor families are at high risk of poor health partly due to limited healthcare access. Health empowerment, a process by which people can gain greater control over the decisions affecting their lives and health through education and motivation, can be an effective way to enhance health, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), health awareness and health-seeking behaviours of these people. A new cohort study will be launched to explore the potential for a Health Empowerment Programme to enable these families by enhancing their health status and modifying their attitudes towards health-related issues. If proven effective, similar empowerment programme models could be tested and further disseminated in collaborations with healthcare providers and policymakers.

Method and analysis

A prospective cohort study with 200 intervention families will be launched and followed up for 5 years. The following inclusion criteria will be used at the time of recruitment: (1) Having at least one working family member; (2) Having at least one child studying in grades 1–3; and (3) Having a monthly household income that is less than 75% of the median monthly household income of Hong Kong families. The Health Empowerment Programme that will be offered to intervention families will comprise four components: health assessment, health literacy, self-care enablement and health ambassador. Their health status, HRQOL, lifestyle and health service utilisation will be assessed and compared with 200 control families with matching characteristics but will not receive the health empowerment intervention.

Ethics and dissemination

This project was approved by the University of Hong Kong—the Hospital Authority Hong Kong West Cluster IRB, Reference number: UW 12-517. The study findings will be disseminated through a series of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations, as well as a yearly report to the philanthropic funding body–Kerry Group Kuok Foundation (Hong Kong) Limited.
Understanding and evaluating the effects of implementing an electronic paediatric prescribing system on care provision and hospital work in paediatric hospital ward settings: a qualitatively driven mixed-method study protocol
Authors: Farre Albert , Cummins Carole
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Electronic prescribing systems can improve the quality and safety of healthcare services, but their implementation is not straightforward and may create unexpected change. However, the added complexity of paediatric prescribing (eg, dose calculations, dilutions, manipulations) may pose additional challenges. This study will aim to (1) understand the complex organisational reality of a paediatric hospital in which a new electronic paediatric prescribing (ePP) system will be introduced; (2) describe ePP-related change, over time, in paediatric hospital ward settings; (3) explore staff perspectives in relation to currently established practices and processes; and (4) assess the impact of ePP on care provision and hospital work from the perspective of paediatricians, paediatric nurses and managers.

Methods and analysis

A qualitatively driven mixed-method approach will be adopted, including 3 inter-related substudies. The core component of the study will be qualitative (substudy 1): we will use ethnographic research methods, including non-participant observation in wards and informal conversational interviews with members of staff. In addition, the design will include 2 embedded supplementary components: a qualitative 1 (substudy 2) based on in-depth interviews and/or focus groups with paediatricians, paediatric nurses, paediatric pharmacists/pharmacy technicians and managers; and a quantitative 1 (substudy 3) in which a staff survey will be developed and administered before and after the ePP implementation. Analytic themes will be identified from ethnographic field notes and interview data. Survey data will be analysed using descriptive statistics and baseline and follow-up data compared to establish impact evaluation measures.

Ethics and dissemination

A favourable ethical opinion has been obtained from a National Health Service (NHS) Research Ethics Committee (15/SS/0157). NHS research governance approval has been obtained at the relevant hospital site. The results of the study will be disseminated through conferences and peer-reviewed journals, as well as fed back to those involved in clinical practice and policy development at the study site.
Pulse oximetry and oxygenation assessment in small animal practice
Authors: Auckburally Adam
Published: February 2016

Oxygen is essential for the cellular respiration of all aerobic organisms so it is important that the amount of oxygen present within the circulation can be measured. In clinical veterinary practice, a non‐invasive method of measuring oxygen saturation of arterial blood is necessary for the rapid, reliable assessment of a patient's oxygen status, whether anaesthetised or in the intensive care unit. Pulse oximetry is considered to be essential for the safe conduct of anaesthesia by the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists, because a failure to recognise hypoxaemia is a major cause of preventable death. This article describes how oxygen is carried within the blood and the basic technology behind the pulse oximeter, together with some of its pitfalls and limitations.
Urogenital surgery in farm animals
Authors: Hallowell Gayle , Potter Tim
Published: February 2016

The types of urogenital conditions observed in large animals are both species and function dependent, with very different diseases being seen in commercial stock compared with small groups of animals of the same species. This article focuses on conditions that can be managed surgically, discussing the decision‐making process for conditions such as urinary tract obstruction, bladder prolapse and pyelonephritis, along with techniques for caesarean section, vasectomy and castration.
The quantum consistency of the 12-dimensional theory
Authors: Davis Simon
Published: February 2016

By considering the 12-dimensional superalgebra, inferences are drawn about the finiteness of the 12-dimensional theory unifying the superstring models. The dimensional reduction of the nonsupersymmetric theory in four dimensions to a supersymmetric action in three dimensions is established for the bosonic sector. It is found to be the quotient by [Formula: see text] of the integration over the fiber coordinate of a theory with [Formula: see text] supersymmetry. Consequently, a flow on the moduli space of Spin(7) manifolds from a [Formula: see text] structure with [Formula: see text] supersymmetry yielding a phenomelogically realistic particle spectrum to a [Formula: see text] holonomy manifold compatible with supersymmetry in three dimensions and a nonsupersymmetric action in four dimensions, solving the quantum cosmological constant problem, is proven to exist. The projection of the representations of the [Formula: see text] superalgebra of the 12-dimensional theory to four dimensions include nonperturbative string solitons that are more stable because the dynamics is described by supersymmetric theory with a higher degree of finiteness.
Nicotinic modulation of Ca2+ oscillations in rat cortical neurons in vitro
Authors: Wang JianGang , Wang YaLi , Guo FangLi , Feng ZhiBo , Wang XiangFang , Lu ChengBiao
Published: February 2016

The roles of nicotine on Ca2+ oscillations [intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) oscillation] in rat primary cultured cortical neurons were studied. The spontaneous [Ca2+]i oscillations (SCO) were recorded in a portion of the neurons (65%) cultured for 7–10 days in vitro. Application of nicotine enhanced [Ca2+]i oscillation frequency and amplitude, which were reduced by the selective α4β2-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) antagonist dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHβE) hydrobromide, and the selective α7-nAChRs antagonist methyllycaconitine citrate (MLA, 20 nM). DHβE reduced SCO frequency and prevented the nicotinic increase in the frequency. DHβE somewhat enhanced SCO amplitude and prevented nicotinic increase in the amplitude. MLA (20 nM) itself reduced SCO frequency without affecting the amplitude but blocked nicotinic increase in [Ca2+]i oscillation frequency and amplitude. Furthermore, coadministration of both α4β2- and α7-nAChRs antagonists completely prevented nicotinic increment in [Ca2+]i oscillation frequency and amplitude. Thus, our results indicate that both α4β2- and α7-nAChRs mediated nicotine-induced [Ca2+]i oscillations, and two nAChR subtypes differentially regulated SCO.
Na+-sensitive elevation in blood pressure is ENaC independent in diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance
Authors: Nizar Jonathan M. , Dong Wuxing , McClellan Robert B. , Labarca Mariana , Zhou Yuehan , Wong Jared , Goens Donald G. , Zhao Mingming , Velarde Nona , Bernstein Daniel , Pellizzon Michael , Satlin Lisa M. , Bhalla Vivek
Published: February 2016

The majority of patients with obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome have hypertension, but the mechanisms of hypertension are poorly understood. In these patients, impaired sodium excretion is critical for the genesis of Na+-sensitive hypertension, and prior studies have proposed a role for the epithelial Na+channel (ENaC) in this syndrome. We characterized high fat-fed mice as a model in which to study the contribution of ENaC-mediated Na+reabsorption in obesity and insulin resistance. High fat-fed mice demonstrated impaired Na+excretion and elevated blood pressure, which was significantly higher on a high-Na+diet compared with low fat-fed control mice. However, high fat-fed mice had no increase in ENaC activity as measured by Na+transport across microperfused cortical collecting ducts, electrolyte excretion, or blood pressure. In addition, we found no difference in endogenous urinary aldosterone excretion between groups on a normal or high-Na+diet. High fat-fed mice provide a model of metabolic syndrome, recapitulating obesity, insulin resistance, impaired natriuresis, and a Na+-sensitive elevation in blood pressure. Surprisingly, in contrast to previous studies, our data demonstrate that high fat feeding of mice impairs natriuresis and produces elevated blood pressure that is independent of ENaC activity and likely caused by increased Na+reabsorption upstream of the aldosterone-sensitive distal nephron.
Interleukin-1β activates an Src family kinase to stimulate the plasma membrane Ca2+pump in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Ghosh Biswarup , Green Matthew V. , Krogh Kelly A. , Thayer Stanley A.
Published: February 2016

The plasma membrane Ca2+ATPase (PMCA) plays a major role in clearing Ca2+from the neuronal cytoplasm. The cytoplasmic Ca2+clearance rate affects neuronal excitability, synaptic plasticity, and neurotransmission. Here, we examined the modulation of PMCA activity by PTKs in hippocampal neurons. PMCA-mediated Ca2+clearance slowed in the presence of pyrazolopyrimidine 2, an inhibitor of Src family kinases (SFKs), and accelerated in the presence of C2-ceramide, an activator of PTKs. Ca2+clearance kinetics were attenuated in cells expressing a dominant-negative Src mutant, suggesting that the pump is tonically stimulated by a PTK. Tonic stimulation was reduced in hippocampal neurons expressing short hairpin (sh)RNA directed to mRNA for Yes. shRNA-mediated knockdown of PMCA isoform 1 (PMCA1) removed tonic stimulation of Ca2+clearance, indicating that the kinase stimulates PMCA1. IL-1β accelerated Ca2+clearance in a manner blocked by an IL-1β receptor antagonist or by an inhibitor of neutral sphingomyelinase, the enzyme that produces ceramide. Thus IL-1β activates an SFK to stimulate the plasma membrane Ca2+pump, decreasing the duration of Ca2+transients in hippocampal neurons.
Mean Platelet Volume in Patients with Nonarteritic Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy
Authors: Şahin Muhammed , Şahin Alparslan , Elbey Bilal , Yüksel Harun , Türkcü Fatih Mehmet , Cingü Abdullah Kürşat
Published: February 2016

Objective. We aimed to investigate the mean platelet volume (MPV) of the patients with nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).Methods. The medical records of 46 patients with the diagnosis of NAION and 90 control subjects were retrospectively evaluated. All participants underwent complete ocular examination including intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement. Hematocrit, MPV, hemoglobin, and platelet levels of the patients with NAION were compared with those of control subjects.Results. There was no significant difference between the groups in platelet counts (p=0.76). NAION group had significantly higher MPV values (8.25±1.26 fL) than that of control subjects (7.64±1.01 fL) (p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that MPV is an independent predictor of NAION (odds ratio = 1.61; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.13–2.28;p=0.007). The mean IOP was significantly higher in NAION group (p<0.001). IOP was also found as an independent predictor of NAION according to the regression analysis (OR = 1.27; 95% CI = 1.08–1.48;p=0.003).Conclusion. Our results demonstrated that the MPV values were significantly higher in NAION patients, suggesting that larger platelets may contribute to the pathogenesis of the NAION.
Natural Product-Derived Treatments for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Safety, Efficacy, and Therapeutic Potential of Combination Therapy
Authors: Ahn James , Ahn Hyung Seok , Cheong Jae Hoon , dela Peña Ike
Published: February 2016

Typical treatment plans for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) utilize nonpharmacological (behavioral/psychosocial) and/or pharmacological interventions. Limited accessibility to behavioral therapies and concerns over adverse effects of pharmacological treatments prompted research for alternative ADHD therapies such as natural product-derived treatments and nutritional supplements. In this study, we reviewed the herbal preparations and nutritional supplements evaluated in clinical studies as potential ADHD treatments and discussed their performance with regard to safety and efficacy in clinical trials. We also discussed some evidence suggesting that adjunct treatment of these agents (with another botanical agent or pharmacological ADHD treatments) may be a promising approach to treat ADHD. The analysis indicated mixed findings with regard to efficacy of natural product-derived ADHD interventions. Nevertheless, these treatments were considered as a “safer” approach than conventional ADHD medications. More comprehensive and appropriately controlled clinical studies are required to fully ascertain efficacy and safety of natural product-derived ADHD treatments. Studies that replicate encouraging findings on the efficacy of combining botanical agents and nutritional supplements with other natural product-derived therapies and widely used ADHD medications are also warranted. In conclusion, the risk-benefit balance of natural product-derived ADHD treatments should be carefully monitored when used as standalone treatment or when combined with other conventional ADHD treatments.
Investigations on Structural and Optical Properties of Hydrothermally Synthesized Zn2SnO4 Nanoparticles
Authors: Joseph L. Allwin , Jeronsia J. Emima , Jaculine M. Mary , Das S. Jerome
Published: February 2016

Ternary oxide Zn2SnO4 has emerged as a promising material due to its tunable work function, band gap energy, and electric resistivity by simply varying the composition of the material. Zinc stannate nanoparticles were synthesized by green hydrothermal growth technique at 200°C for the reaction time of 24 h using stannic chloride pentahydrate (SnCl4·5H2O) and zinc chloride (ZnCl2) as precursors maintained at pH value of 8. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the phase purity and high crystalline nature of the synthesized sample. The estimated crystallite size was about 12.3 nm corresponding to the most prominent plane (311) using Scherrer equation. Morphology of the sample was characterized by SEM analysis, which confirmed the presence of small size nanoparticles. The optical property of synthesized sample was studied by using UV-visible and PL spectroscopy analysis. The derived optical band gap of 3.94 eV was found to be blue shifted as compared to bulk Zn2SnO4 (3.6 eV), which should be attributed to the quantum size effects. Room temperature photoluminescence spectrum showed emission bands at 397 nm and 468 nm.
Parents’ Experiences of Caring Responsibility for Their Adult Child with Schizophrenia
Authors: Blomgren Mannerheim Ann , Hellström Muhli Ulla , Siouta Eleni
Published: February 2016

As a consequence of the latest psychiatry-related reform in Sweden and its implementation, relatives and family members have taken over from the formal healthcare system significant responsibility for the care of persons with a mental disability and illness. The aim of this study was to systematically describe and analyze the experiences of parents’ informal care responsibility. The questions were, what are the experiences around parents’ informal care activities and responsibilities and how do parents construct and manage their caring responsibility and with what consequences? Semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted (16 hours of recorded material) with eight parents who were all members of the Interest Association for Schizophrenia (Intresseföreningen för Schizofreni(IFS)) in Sweden. A mixed hermeneutic deductive and inductive method was used for the interpretation of the material. The parents endow their informal caring responsibility with meaning ofbeing a good,responsible, andaccountableparent with respect to their social context and social relationships as well as with respect to the psychiatric care representatives. In this tense situation, parents compromise between elements of struggle, cooperation, avoidance, and adaption in their interaction with the world outside, meaning the world beyond the care provision for their child, as well as with the world inside themselves.
Simulation Study on Miscibility Effect of CO2/Solvent Injection for Enhanced Oil Recovery at Nonisothermal Conditions
Authors: Jeong Moon Sik , Lee Kun Sang
Published: February 2016

The minimum miscibility pressure (MMP) determines the main mechanism of CO2flooding, which is either an immiscible or miscible process. This paper examines the recovery improvements of CO2flooding in terms of both the injection temperature and solvent composition. The results show that a lower temperature injection and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) mixture can considerably improve oil recovery due to the reduced MMP in the swept area caused by the injected solvent. For the pure CO2injection at the reservoir temperature, oil recovery is 59% after 1.0 PV CO2injection. The oil recoveries by CO2-LPG mixtures are improved to 73% with 0.1 mole fractions of LPG and 81% with 0.2 mole fractions of LPG. The recovery factor from low-temperature CO2injection is 78%, which is 32% higher compared to the isothermal case. The recoveries obtained by low-temperature CO2-LPG injection increase up to 87% of the initial oil. Heat transfer between the reservoir and the formation of over/underburden should be considered in order to describe the process more accurately. Additionally, the recovery factors from the heat transfer models are decreased by 4–12% in comparison with the original nonisothermal models.
The Role of Mean Platelet Volume as a Predictor of Mortality in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tajarernmuang Pattraporn , Phrommintikul Arintaya , Limsukon Atikun , Pothirat Chaicharn , Chittawatanarat Kaweesak
Published: February 2016

Background. An increase in the mean platelet volume (MPV) has been proposed as a novel prognostic indicator in critically ill patients.Objective. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether there is an association between MPV and mortality in critically ill patients.Methods. We did electronic search in Medline, Scopus, and Embase up to November 2015.Results. Eleven observational studies, involving 3724 patients, were included. The values of initial MPV in nonsurvivors and survivors were not different, with the mean difference with 95% confident interval (95% CI) being 0.17 (95% CI: −0.04, 0.38;p=0.112). However, after small sample studies were excluded in sensitivity analysis, the pooling mean difference of MPV was 0.32 (95% CI: 0.04, 0.60;p=0.03). In addition, the MPV was observed to be significantly higher in nonsurvivor groups after the third day of admission. On the subgroup analysis, although patient types (sepsis or mixed ICU) and study type (prospective or retrospective study) did not show any significant difference between groups, the difference of MPV was significantly difference on the unit which had mortality up to 30%.Conclusions. Initial values of MPV might not be used as a prognostic marker of mortality in critically ill patients. Subsequent values of MPV after the 3rd day and the lower mortality rate unit might be useful. However, the heterogeneity between studies is high.
Lack of Association between Pulse Steroid Therapy and Bone Mineral Density in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Zengin Karahan Serap , Boz Cavit , Kilic Sevgi , Can Usta Nuray , Ozmenoglu Mehmet , Altunayoglu Cakmak Vildan , Gazioglu Sibel
Published: February 2016

Multiple sclerosis (MS) has been associated with reduced bone mineral density (BMD). The purpose of this study was to determine the possible factors affecting BMD in patients with MS. We included consecutive 155 patients with MS and 90 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Patients with MS exhibited significantly lowerT-scores andZ-scores in the femoral neck and trochanter compared to the controls. Ninety-four (61%) patients had reduced bone mass in either the lumbar spine or the femoral neck; of these, 64 (41.3%) had osteopenia and 30 (19.4%) had osteoporosis. The main factors affecting BMD were disability, duration of MS, and smoking. There was a negative relationship between femoral BMD and EDSS and disease duration. No association with lumbar BMD was determined. There were no correlations between BMD at any anatomic region and cumulative corticosteroid dose. BMD is significantly lower in patients with MS than in healthy controls. Reduced BMD in MS is mainly associated with disability and duration of the disease. Short courses of high dose steroid therapy did not result in an obvious negative impact on BMD in the lumbar spine and femoral neck in patients with MS.
Acute Footshock Stress Induces Time-Dependent Modifications of AMPA/NMDA Protein Expression and AMPA Phosphorylation
Authors: Bonini Daniela , Mora Cristina , Tornese Paolo , Sala Nathalie , Filippini Alice , La Via Luca , Milanese Marco , Calza Stefano , Bonanno Gianbattista , Racagni Giorgio , Gennarelli Massimo , Popoli Maurizio , Musazzi Laura , Barbon Alessandro
Published: February 2016

Clinical studies on patients with stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders reported functional and morphological changes in brain areas where glutamatergic transmission is predominant, including frontal and prefrontal areas. In line with this evidence, several preclinical works suggest that glutamate receptors are targets of both rapid and long-lasting effects of stress. Here we found that acute footshock- (FS-) stress, although inducing no transcriptional and RNA editing alterations of ionotropic AMPA and NMDA glutamate receptor subunits, rapidly and transiently modulates their protein expression, phosphorylation, and localization at postsynaptic spines in prefrontal and frontal cortex. In total extract, FS-stress increased the phosphorylation levels of GluA1 AMPA subunit at Ser845immediately after stress and of GluA2 Ser8802 h after start of stress. At postsynaptic spines, stress induced a rapid decrease of GluA2 expression, together with an increase of its phosphorylation at Ser880, suggesting internalization of GluA2 AMPA containing receptors. GluN1 and GluN2A NMDA receptor subunits were found markedly upregulated in postsynaptic spines, 2 h after start of stress. These results suggest selected time-dependent changes in glutamatergic receptor subunits induced by acute stress, which may suggest early and transient enhancement of AMPA-mediated currents, followed by a transient activation of NMDA receptors.
Antibiotic-ResistantAcinetobacter baumanniiIncreasing Success Remains a Challenge as a Nosocomial Pathogen
Authors: Gonzalez-Villoria Ana Maria , Valverde-Garduno Veronica
Published: February 2016

Antibiotic-resistant infectious bacteria currently imply a high risk and therefore constitute a strong challenge when treating patients in hospital settings. Characterization of these species and of particular strains is a priority for the establishment of diagnostic tests and preventive procedures. The relevance ofAcinetobacter baumanniias a problematic microorganism in inpatient facilities, particularly intensive care units, has increased over time. This review aims to draw attention to (i) the historical emergence of carbapenem-resistantAcinetobacter baumannii, (ii) the current status of surveillance needs in Latin America, and (iii) recent data suggesting thatA. baumanniicontinues to spread and evolve in hospital settings. First, we present synopsis of the series of events leading to the discovery and precise identification of this microorganism in hospital settings. Then key events in the acquisition of antibiotic-resistant genes by this microorganism are summarized, highlighting the race between new antibiotic generation and emergence ofA. baumanniiresistant strains. Here we review the historical development of this species as an infectious threat, the current state of its distribution, and antibiotic resistance characteristics, and we discuss future prospects for its control.
Certain Aspects of Silver and Silver Nanoparticles in Wound Care: A Minireview
Authors: Konop Marek , Damps Tatsiana , Misicka Aleksandra , Rudnicka Lidia
Published: February 2016

Resistance to antimicrobial agents by pathogenic bacteria has emerged in recent years and is a major health problem. In this context silver and silver nanoparticles (AgNP) have been known to have inhibitory and bactericidal effects and was used throughout history for treatment of skin ulcer, bone fracture, and supporting wound healing. In all of these applications prevention and treatment of bacterial colonized/infected wounds are critical. In this context silver and its derivatives play an important role in health care. Silver is widely used in clinical practice in the form of silver nitrate and/or silver sulfadiazine. In the last few years silver nanoparticles entered into clinical practice as both antimicrobial and antifungal agents. In addition, nanosilver is used in coating medical devices (catheters) and as component of wound dressings. In this paper we present summarized information about silver and nanoparticles made of silver in the context of their useful properties, especially antibacterial ones, being of a great interest for researchers and clinicians.
Self-Perception of Swallowing-Related Problems in Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Patients Diagnosed with 24-Hour Oropharyngeal pH Monitoring
Authors: Mesallam Tamer A. , Farahat Mohamed
Published: February 2016

Background and Objectives.Swallowing difficulty is considered one of the nonspecific symptoms that many patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux complain of. However, the relationship between laryngopharyngeal reflux and swallowing problems is not clear. The purpose of this work is to explore correlation between swallowing-related problems and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in a group of patients diagnosed with oropharyngeal pH monitoring and to study the effect of laryngopharyngeal reflux on the patients’ self-perception of swallowing problems.Methods.44 patients complaining of reflux-related problems were included in the study. Patients underwent 24-hour oropharyngeal pH monitoring and were divided into positive and negative LPR groups based on the pH monitoring results. All patient filled out the Dysphagia Handicap Index (DHI) and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) questionnaires. Comparison was made between the positive and negative LPR groups regarding the results of the DHI and RSI ratings. Also, correlation between DHI scores, RSI scores, and pH monitoring results was studied.Results.Significant difference was reported between positive and negative LPR groups regarding DHI scores, RSI scores, and overall rating of swallowing difficulty. There was significant correlation demonstrated between DHI scores, RSI scores, and 24-hour oropharyngeal pH results.Conclusion.Laryngopharyngeal reflux appears to have a significant impact on patients’ self-perception of swallowing problems as measured by DHI.
The Heavy Links between Geological Events and Vascular Plants Evolution: A Brief Outline
Authors: Piombino Aldo
Published: February 2016

Since the rise of photosynthesis, life has influenced terrestrial atmosphere, particularly the O2 and the CO2 content (the latter being originally more than 95%), changing the chemistry of waters, atmosphere, and soils. Billions of years after, a far offspring of these first unicellular forms conquered emerging lands, not only completely changing landscape, but also modifying geological cycles of deposition and erosion, many chemical and physical characteristics of soils and fresh waters, and, more, the cycle of various elements. So, there are no doubts that vascular plants modified geology; but it is true that also geology has affected (and, more, has driven) plant evolution. New software, PyRate, has determined vascular plant origin and diversification through a Bayesian analysis of fossil record from Silurian to today, particularly observing their origination and extinction rate. A comparison between PyRate data and geological history suggests that geological events massively influenced plant evolution and that also the rise of nonflowering seed plants and the fast diffusion of flowering plants can be explained, almost partly, with the environmental condition changes induced by geological phenomena.
Calreticulin Expression in Human Non–Small Cell Lung Cancers Correlates with Increased Accumulation of Antitumor Immune Cells and Favorable Prognosis
Authors: Fucikova Jitka , Becht Etienne , Iribarren Kristina , Goc Jeremy , Remark Romain , Damotte Diane , Alifano Marco , Devi Priyanka , Biton Jerome , Germain Claire , Lupo Audrey , Fridman Wolf Herve , Dieu-Nosjean Marie-Caroline , Kroemer Guido , Sautès-Fridman Catherine , Cremer Isabelle
Published: February 2016

A high density of tumor-infiltrating mature dendritic cells (DC) and CD8+ T cells correlates with a positive prognosis in a majority of human cancers. The recruitment of activated lymphocytes to the tumor microenvironment, primed to recognize tumor-associated antigens, can occur in response to immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells. ICD is characterized by the preapoptotic translocation of calreticulin (CRT) from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the cell surface as a result of an ER stress response accompanied by the phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (eIF2α). We conducted a retrospective study on two independent cohorts of patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to investigate the prognostic potential of CRT. We report that the level of CRT expression on tumor cells, which correlated with eIF2α phosphorylation, positively influenced the clinical outcome of NSCLC. High CRT expression on tumor cells was associated with a higher density of infiltrating mature DC and effector memory T-cell subsets, suggesting that CRT triggers the activation of adaptive immune responses in the tumor microenvironment. Accordingly, patients with elevated CRT expression and dense intratumoral infiltration by DC or CD8+ T lymphocytes had the best prognosis. We conclude that CRT expression constitutes a new powerful prognostic biomarker that reflects enhanced local antitumor immune responses in the lung. Cancer Res; 76(7); 1746–56. ©2016 AACR.
Time to Colonoscopy after Positive Fecal Blood Test in Four U.S. Health Care Systems
Authors: Chubak Jessica , Garcia Michael P. , Burnett-Hartman Andrea N. , Zheng Yingye , Corley Douglas A. , Halm Ethan A. , Singal Amit G. , Klabunde Carrie N. , Doubeni Chyke A. , Kamineni Aruna , Levin Theodore R. , Schottinger Joanne E. , Green Beverly B. , Quinn Virginia P. , Rutter Carolyn M.
Published: February 2016

Background: To reduce colorectal cancer mortality, positive fecal blood tests must be followed by colonoscopy.

Methods: We identified 62,384 individuals ages 50 to 89 years with a positive fecal blood test between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2012 in four health care systems within the Population-Based Research Optimizing Screening through Personalized Regimens (PROSPR) consortium. We estimated the probability of follow-up colonoscopy and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using the Kaplan–Meier method. Overall differences in cumulative incidence of follow-up across health care systems were assessed with the log-rank test. HRs and 95% CIs were estimated from multivariate Cox proportional hazards models.

Results: Most patients who received a colonoscopy did so within 6 months of their positive fecal blood test, although follow-up rates varied across health care systems (P <0.001). Median days to colonoscopy ranged from 41 (95% CI, 40–41) to 174 (95% CI, 123–343); percent followed-up by 12 months ranged from 58.1% (95% CI, 51.6%–63.7%) to 83.8% (95% CI, 83.4%–84.3%) and differences across health care systems were also observed at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months. Increasing age and comorbidity score were associated with lower follow-up rates.

Conclusion: Individual characteristics and health care system were associated with colonoscopy after positive fecal blood tests. Patterns were consistent across health care systems, but proportions of patients receiving follow-up varied. These findings suggest that there is room to improve follow-up of positive colorectal cancer screening tests.

Impact: Understanding the timing of colonoscopy after positive fecal blood tests and characteristics associated with lack of follow-up may inform future efforts to improve follow-up. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(2); 344–50. ©2016 AACR.
The Role of Neoadjuvant Trials in Drug Development for Solid Tumors
Authors: Funt Samuel A. , Chapman Paul B.
Published: February 2016

The relatively low success rate of phase II oncology trials in predicting success of novel drugs in phase III trials and in gaining regulatory approval may be due to reliance on the endpoint of response rate defined by the RECIST. The neoadjuvant treatment paradigm allows the antitumor activity of a novel therapy to be determined on a pathologic basis at the time of surgery instead of by RECIST, which was not developed to guide clinical decision making or correlate with long-term outcomes. Indeed, the FDA endorsed pathologic complete response (pCR) as a surrogate for overall survival (OS) in early-stage breast cancer and granted accelerated approval to pertuzumab based on this endpoint. We propose that pCR is a biologically rational method of determining treatment effect that may be more likely to predict OS. We discuss some advantages of the neoadjuvant trial design, review the use of neoadjuvant therapy as standards of care, and consider the neoadjuvant platform as a method for drug development. Clin Cancer Res; 22(10); 2323–8. ©2016 AACR.
Using Quantitative Seroproteomics to Identify Antibody Biomarkers in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Jhaveri Darshil T. , Kim Min-Sik , Thompson Elizabeth D. , Huang Lanqing , Sharma Rajni , Klein Alison P. , Zheng Lei , Le Dung T. , Laheru Daniel A. , Pandey Akhilesh , Jaffee Elizabeth M. , Anders Robert A.
Published: February 2016

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Less than 6% of patients survive beyond the fifth year due to inadequate early diagnostics and ineffective treatment options. Our laboratory has developed an allogeneic, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)–secreting pancreatic cancer vaccine (GVAX) that has been tested in phase II clinical trials. Here, we employed a serum antibodies–based SILAC immunoprecipitation (SASI) approach to identify proteins that elicit an antibody response after vaccination. The SASI approach uses immunoprecipitation with patient-derived antibodies that is coupled to quantitative stable isotope–labeled amino acids in cell culture (SILAC). Using mass spectrometric analysis, we identified more than 150 different proteins that induce an antibody response after vaccination. The regulatory subunit 12A of protein phosphatase 1 (MYPT1 or PPP1R12A), regulatory subunit 8 of the 26S proteasome (PSMC5), and the transferrin receptor (TFRC) were shown to be pancreatic cancer–associated antigens recognized by postvaccination antibodies in the sera of patients with favorable disease-free survival after GVAX therapy. We further interrogated these proteins in over 80 GVAX-treated patients' pancreases and uniformly found a significant increase in the expression of MYPT1, PSMC5, and TFRC in neoplastic compared with non-neoplastic pancreatic ductal epithelium. We show that the novel SASI approach can identify antibody targets specifically expressed in patients with improved disease-free survival after cancer vaccine therapy. These targets need further validation to be considered as possible pancreatic cancer biomarkers. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(3); 225–33. ©2016 AACR.
Insulin Stimulates Goose Liver Cell Growth by Activating PI3K-AKT-mTOR Signal Pathway
Authors: Han Chunchun , Wei Shouhai , Song Qi , He Fang , Xiong Xiangping , Wan Huofu , Liu Dandan , Ye Fengjiang , Liu Hehe , Li Liang , Xu Hongyong , Du Xiaohui , Kang Bo , Zeng Xianyin
Published: February 2016

Background/Aims: Recent studies have suggested a crucial role for PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway in regulating cell proliferation, so we hypothesize that insulin acts goose hepatocellular growth by PI3K-Akt-mTOR signal pathway. Because the physiological status of liver cells in vitro is different from that in vivo, a simplified cell model in vitro was established. Methods: Goose primary hepatocytes were isolated and incubated in either no addition as a control or insulin or PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway inhibitors or co-treatment with glucose and PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway inhibitors; Then, cell DNA synthesis and cell cycle analysis were detected by BrdU-incorporation Assay and Flow cytometric analysis; the mRNA expression and protein expression of factors involved in the cell cycle were determined by Real-Time RT-PCR, ELISA, and western blot. Results: Here we first showed that insulin evidently increased the cell DNA synthesis, the mRNA level and protein content of factors involved in the cell proliferation of goose primary hepatocytes. Meanwhile, insulin evidently increased the mRNA level and protein content of factors involved in PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway. However, the up-regulation of insulin on cell proliferation was decreased significantly by the inhibitors of PBK-Akt-mTOR pathway, LY294002, rapamycin or NVP-BEZ235. Conclusion: These findings suggest that PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway plays an essential role in insulin-regulated cell proliferation of goose hepatocyte.
Genetic Interaction between HOG1 and SLT2 Genes in Signalling the Cellular Stress Caused by Sulphuric Acid in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: de Lucena Rodrigo Mendonça , Elsztein Carolina , Barros de Souza Rafael , de Barros Pita Will , Paiva Jr. Sérgio de Sá Leitão , de Morais Jr. Marcos Antonio
Published: February 2016

In fuel ethanol production, recycling of yeast biomass includes treatment of cells with diluted sulphuric acid in order to control bacterial population. However, this strategy might lead to a loss of cell viability, with potential negative consequences to the fermentation yield. In a recent paper we showed that the proteins Slt2 and Hog1 are essential for yeast tolerance to sulphuric acid. As a complement of the aforementioned work, we used DNA microarray technology to search for differentially expressed genes in hog1Δ and slt2Δ deletion mutants after treatment with sulphuric acid. Our results show how Slt2p and Hog1p could coordinate the interplay among protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase C and high-osmolarity glycerol pathways. Moreover, the SSK22 and KDX1 genes may be part of this network, although their proteins were shown to be non-essential for cell growth/survival at low pH. These proteins might work by enhancing the signal which downregulates the PKA pathway leading to cell cycle arrest, in order to regenerate the integrity of yeast cell wall and cell homeostasis under acid shock.
Presence of Atrial Fibrillation at the Time of Dialysis Initiation Is Associated with Mortality and Cardiovascular Events
Authors: Tanaka Akihito , Inaguma Daijo , Shinjo Hibiki , Murata Minako , Takeda Asami ,   the Aichi Cohort Study of Prognosis in Patients Newly Initiated into Dialysis (AICOPP) Study Group
Published: February 2016

Background: Death in dialysis patients results mainly from cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. To our knowledge, no prospective study has compared the rates of mortality or cardiovascular events between patients with and without atrial fibrillation (AF) at the time of dialysis initiation. Methods: This study included 1,516 patients who were initiated into dialysis between October 2011 and August 2013. Rates of mortality and cardiovascular events were compared between patients with and without AF, and between AF patients with and without warfarin (WF) treatment. Results: The study comprised 1,025 men and 491 women with a mean age of 67.5 ± 13.1. Of these patients, 93 had AF, while 1,423 did not; 22.6% of the former group and 9.7% of the latter group died by March 2014 (p < 0.01). Cardiovascular events occurred in 34.4% of patients with AF and 15.1% of patients without (p < 0.01). Even after adjustments for various factors, AF remained an independent risk factor for mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 1.873, 95% CI 1.168-3.002, p < 0.01). It was also an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events (HR 1.872, 95% CI 1.262-2.778, p < 0.01). No difference in any parameter was noted between the groups that did and did not receive WF treatment. Conclusion: Patients with AF at the time of dialysis initiation show a poor prognosis and are at high risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, AF should be taken into consideration in dialysis patients.
Diffuse Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma Presenting with Psammomatous Calcification on a Cervical Smear
Authors: Tan Adeline , Cohen Paul , Raoofi Mooska , Tan Jason , Mesbah Ardakani Nima , Sterrett Greg
Published: February 2016

Background: Psammoma bodies in cervical smears are rare but may be associated with benign and malignant diseases of the female genital tract. Case: A 52-year-old nulliparous woman presented with a 2-month history of intermittent vaginal spotting and post-coital bleeding. A cervical smear showed an inconclusive high-grade glandular lesion with psammomatous calcification. Previous cervical smears had been normal. This smear contained papillary tissue fragments, occasional spheres of gland-like cells and frequent psammoma bodies. The patient underwent a laparoscopic hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and omentectomy. The surface of the omentum and both ovaries contained psammoma bodies with groups of cells identical to those in the cervical smear. Within the omentum, there were invasive malignant epithelioid cells positive for CK7, CK5/6, calretinin, D2-40, WT-1, CK5/6, p16 and EMA. Desmin and PAX-8 immunostains were negative. There was also evidence of BRCA1-associated protein 1 (BAP1) dysfunction compatible with diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM). Conclusion: We describe the first reported case of DMPM presenting with an abnormal cervical smear, a rare but important differential diagnosis to consider in abnormal cervical smears showing psammomatous calcification.
Cytological Diagnosis of T Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma in Patients with Pleural Effusion as an Initial Clinical Presentation: Two Case Reports of an Algorithmic Approach Using Complete Immunohistochemical Phenotyping
Authors: Chen Lan , Zhang Jin-song , Cui Di , Liu Dong-ge
Published: February 2016

Background: T cell lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma with the initial symptom of effusion is an uncommon condition. It may present a diagnostic challenge as lymphoblastic cells mimic normal lymphocytes under a low-power microscopic view. Cases: Two cases are presented, both male, with the first aged 31 years and the second aged 54 years. Both initially presented with chest pain and shortness of breath, and CT scans found an anterior mediastinal mass and left pleural effusion in both subjects. Cytological smears of pleural fluid in each case showed monotonous small-to-medium-sized lymphoid cells with moderate chromatin condensation and round-to-convoluted nuclei. There were prominent apoptotic bodies and mitosis in both cases. Immunohistochemistry of cell blocks demonstrated their T cell lineage and lymphoblastic nature. Diagnosis of T cell lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma was determined by a 3-step algorithmic approach using complete panels of immunohistochemical markers (CD3, CD20, Ki-67, CD10, CD5, CD99, CD1a, CD34, CD4, CD8, TDT, CD7, CD2 and CD68). Conclusion: An algorithmic approach based on cytological morphology and immunophenotyping is an effective way to diagnose T cell lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma in patients with an initial symptom of pleural effusion and insidious cytological morphology.