bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemokines and Chemokine Receptors in Lymphoid Tissue Dynamics
Authors: Schulz Olga , Hammerschmidt Swantje I. , Moschovakis G. Leandros , Förster Reinhold
Published: February 2016

The continuous migration of immune cells between lymphoid and nonlymphoid organs is a key feature of the immune system, facilitating the distribution of effector cells within nearly all compartments of the body. Furthermore, reaching their correct position within primary, secondary, or tertiary lymphoid organs is a prerequisite to ensure immune cells’ unimpaired differentiation, maturation, and selection, as well as their activation or functional silencing. The superfamilies of chemokines and chemokine receptors are of major importance in guiding immune cells to and within lymphoid and nonlymphoid tissues. In this review we focus on the role of the chemokine system in the migration dynamics of immune cells within lymphoid organs at the steady state and on how these dynamics are affected by infectious and inflammatory processes.
Genetics and Organizational Behavior
Authors: Arvey Richard D. , Li Wen-Dong , Wang Nan
Published: February 2016

Articles on the genetics of complex human behaviors and psychological traits provided in past volumes of journals published by Annual Reviews tended to adopt a pathological perspective and focused heavily on the disorders of human affect and behaviors. In our review, we expand our focus to the more general, nonclinical population, and in particular on the advances in the understanding of the genetics of attitudes and behaviors in work settings. We review the recent and emerging literature using a behavioral genetics approach to examine the influence of genetics on a wide array of important constructs in organizational behavior (OB) research and provide unique theoretical insights offered by this approach. We discuss practical implications and future research directions from a broad person-environment interactionist perspective by taking a genetics approach.
Mechanisms and Consequences of Cancer Genome Instability: Lessons from Genome Sequencing Studies
Authors: Lee June-Koo , Choi Yoon-La , Kwon Mijung , Park Peter J.
Published: February 2016

During tumor evolution, cancer cells can accumulate numerous genetic alterations, ranging from single nucleotide mutations to whole-chromosomal changes. Although a great deal of progress has been made in the past decades in characterizing genomic alterations, recent cancer genome sequencing studies have provided a wealth of information on the detailed molecular profiles of such alterations in various types of cancers. Here, we review our current understanding of the mechanisms and consequences of cancer genome instability, focusing on the findings uncovered through analysis of exome and whole-genome sequencing data. These analyses have shown that most cancers have evidence of genome instability, and the degree of instability is variable within and between cancer types. Importantly, we describe some recent evidence supporting the idea that chromosomal instability could be a major driving force in tumorigenesis and cancer evolution, actively shaping the genomes of cancer cells to maximize their survival advantage.
An Improved Metabolism Grey Model for Predicting Small Samples with a Singular Datum and Its Application to Sulfur Dioxide Emissions in China
Authors: Zhou Wei , Zhang Demei
Published: February 2016

This study proposes an improved metabolism grey model [IMGM(1,1)] to predict small samples with a singular datum, which is a common phenomenon in daily economic data. This new model combines the fitting advantage of the conventional GM(1,1)in small samples and the additional advantages of the MGM(1,1)in new real-time data, while overcoming the limitations of both the conventional GM(1,1)and MGM(1,1)when the predicted results are vulnerable at any singular datum. Thus, this model can be classified as an improved grey prediction model. Its improvements are illustrated through a case study of sulfur dioxide emissions in China from 2007 to 2013 with a singular datum in 2011. Some features of this model are presented based on the error analysis in the case study. Results suggest that if action is not taken immediately, sulfur dioxide emissions in 2016 will surpass the standard level required by the Twelfth Five-Year Plan proposed by the China State Council.
Morphologic and Clinical Outcome of Intracranial Aneurysms after Treatment Using Flow Diverter Devices: Mid-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Breu Anna-Katharina , Hauser Till-Karsten , Ebner Florian H. , Bischof Felix , Ernemann Ulrike , Seeger Achim
Published: February 2016

Flow diverters (FDs) are designed for the endovascular treatment of complex intracranial aneurysm configurations. From February 2009 to March 2013 28 patients (22 females, 6 males) were treated with FD; mean age was 57 years. Data, including aneurysm features, clinical presentation, history of previous bleeding, treatment, and follow-up results, are presented. Early postinterventional neurological deficits (transient:n=3/enduring:n=1) appeared in 4/28 patients (14%), and early improvement of neurological symptoms was observed in 7 patients with previous restriction of cranial nerve function. The overall occlusion rate was 20/26 (77%; 59% after 3 months). 77% achieved best results according to O’Kelly-Marotta score grade D with no contrast material filling (70% of those after 3 months). In 4/6 patients who did not achieve grade D, proximal and/or distal stent overlapping ≥5 mm was not guaranteed sufficiently. During follow-up we did not detect any aneurysm recurrence or haemorrhage. In-stent stenosis emerged as the most frequent complication (4/27; 15%) followed by 2 cases of vascular obliteration (AICA/VA). In conclusion endovascular reconstruction using a FD represents a modern and effective treatment in those aneurysms that are not suitable for conventional interventional or surgical treatment. The appearance of severe complications was rare.
Oxidative Stress in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Ji Hongxiu , Li Xiao-Kang
Published: February 2016

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic pruritic skin disorder affecting many people especially young children. It is a disease caused by the combination of genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and skin barrier defect. In recent years, emerging evidence suggests oxidative stress may play an important role in many skin diseases and skin aging, possibly including AD. In this review, we give an update on scientific progress linking oxidative stress to AD and discuss future treatment strategies for better disease control and improved quality of life for AD patients.
Effect of Astragaloside IV on Neural Stem Cell Transplantation in Alzheimer’s Disease Rat Models
Authors: Haiyan Hu , Rensong Yang , Guoqin Jin , Xueli Zhang , Huaying Xia , Yanwu Xu
Published: February 2016

Stem cell‐based therapy is a promising treatment strategy for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the mechanism underlying the maintenance of renewal and replacement capabilities of endogenous progenitor cells or engrafted stem cells in a pathological environment remains elusive. To investigate the effect of astragaloside IV (ASI) on the proliferation and differentiation of the engrafted neural stem cells (NSCs), we cultured NSCs from the hippocampus of E14 rat embryos, treated the cells with ASI, and then transplanted the cells into the hippocampus of rat AD models. In vitro experimentation showed that 10−5 M ASI induced NSCs to differentiate into β‐tubulin III+ and GFAP+ cells. NSCs transplantation into rat AD models resulted in improvements in learning and memory, especially in the ASI‐treated groups. ASI treatment resulted in an increase in the number of β‐tubulin III+ cells in the hippocampus. Further investigation showed that ASI inhibited PS1 expression in vitro and in vivo. The high‐dose ASI downregulated the Notch intracellular domain, whereas the low‐dose ASI increased Notch‐1 and NICD. In conclusion, ASI treatment resulted in improvements in learning and memory of AD models by promoting NSC proliferation and differentiation partly through the Notch signal pathway.
The Influence of Molecular Structure Modifications on Vibrational Properties of Some Beta Blockers: A Combined Raman and DFT Study
Authors: Farcaș A. , Iacoviță C. , Vințeler E. , Chiș V. , Știufiuc R. , Lucaciu C. M.
Published: February 2016

We report results of a systematic Raman, SERS, and DFT study on four beta blocking molecules: Atenolol, Metoprolol, Propranolol, and, for the first time reported in the literature, Bisoprolol. The choice of these molecules was motivated by the structural similarities between Atenolol, Bisoprolol, and Metoprolol on one hand and by their differences relative to Propranolol. The density functional theory (DFT) approach, using the B3LYP method at the 6-311+G(d,p) level of theory, has been employed for geometry optimization and vibration bands assignments. The obtained results highlight the major role played by the central aromatic ring whose vibrations dominate the Raman spectra in all compounds. While the phenyl group vibrations dominate the Raman spectrum in the case of Atenolol, Bisoprolol, and Metoprolol, the spectrum of Propranolol presents high intensity vibrations of the naphthyl group. SERS performed on gold and silver colloids, at various pH conditions, revealed a higher sensitivity for Propranolol detection. The pH dependence of the spectrum indicates that the studied beta blockers attach themselves to the metal nanoparticles in a protonated form. The molecular adsorption geometry on metal nanoparticles surface has been evaluated by using the experimental SER spectra and the quantum chemical calculations.
Universal Superspace Unitary Operator for Some Interesting Abelian Models: Superfield Approach
Authors: Bhanja T. , Srinivas N. , Malik R. P.
Published: February 2016

Within the framework of augmented version of superfield formalism, we derive the superspace unitary operator and show its usefulness in the derivation of Becchi-Rouet-Stora-Tyutin (BRST) and anti-BRST symmetry transformations for a set of interesting models for the Abelian 1-form gauge theories. These models are (i) a one (0+1)-dimensional (1D) toy model of a rigid rotor, (ii) the two (1+1)-dimensional (2D) modified versions of the Proca and anomalous Abelian 1-form gauge theories, and (iii) the 2D self-dual bosonic gauge field theory. We provide, in some sense, the alternatives to the horizontality condition (HC) and the gauge invariant restrictions (GIRs) in the language of the above superspace (SUSP) unitary operator. One of the key observations of our present endeavor is the result that the SUSP unitary operator and its Hermitian conjugate are found to be thesameforallthe Abelian models under consideration (including the 4DinteractingAbelian 1-form gauge theories with Dirac and complex scalar fields which have been discussed earlier). Thus, we establish theuniversalityof the SUSP operator for the above Abelian theories.
Phytochemicals and Biogenic Metallic Nanoparticles as Anticancer Agents
Authors: Rao Pasupuleti Visweswara , Nallappan Devi , Madhavi Kondeti , Rahman Shafiqur , Jun Wei Lim , Gan Siew Hua
Published: February 2016

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Several classes of drugs are available to treat different types of cancer. Currently, researchers are paying significant attention to the development of drugs at the nanoscale level to increase their target specificity and to reduce their concentrations. Nanotechnology is a promising and growing field with multiple subdisciplines, such as nanostructures, nanomaterials, and nanoparticles. These materials have gained prominence in science due to their size, shape, and potential efficacy. Nanomedicine is an important field involving the use of various types of nanoparticles to treat cancer and cancerous cells. Synthesis of nanoparticles targeting biological pathways has become tremendously prominent due to the higher efficacy and fewer side effects of nanodrugs compared to other commercial cancer drugs. In this review, different medicinal plants and their active compounds, as well as green‐synthesized metallic nanoparticles from medicinal plants, are discussed in relation to their anticancer activities.
Changes in Climate Extremes over North Thailand, 1960–2099
Authors: Masud Mohammad Badrul , Soni Peeyush , Shrestha Sangam , Tripathi Nitin K.
Published: February 2016

This study analyzes 24 climate extreme indices over North Thailand using observed data for daily maximum and minimum temperatures and total daily rainfall for the 1960–2010 period, and HadCM3 Global Climate Model (GCM) and PRECIS Regional Climate Model simulated data for the 1960–2100 period. A statistical downscaling tool is employed to downscale GCM outputs. Variations in and trends of historical and future climates are identified using the nonparametric Mann-Kendall trend test and Sen’s slope. Temperature extreme indices showed a significant rising trend during the observed period and are expected to increase significantly with an increase in summer days and tropical nights in the future. A notable decline in the number of cool days and nights is also expected in the study area while the number of warm days and nights is expected to increase. There was an insignificant decrease in total annual rainfall, number of days with rainfall more than 10 and 20 mm. However, the annual rainfall is projected to increase by 9.65% in the future 2011–2099 period compared to the observed 1960–2010 period.
Polymicrobial Pituitary Abscess Predominately InvolvingEscherichia coliin the Setting of an Apoplectic Pituitary Prolactinoma
Authors: Beatty Norman , Medina-Garcia Luis , Al Mohajer Mayar , Zangeneh Tirdad T.
Published: February 2016

Pituitary abscess is a rare intracranial infection that can be life-threatening if not appropriately diagnosed and treated upon presentation. The most common presenting symptoms include headache, anterior pituitary hypofunction, and visual field disturbances. Brain imaging with either computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging usually reveals intra- or suprasellar lesion(s). Diagnosis is typically confirmed intra- or postoperatively when pathological analysis is done. Clinicians should immediately start empiric antibiotics and request a neurosurgical consult when pituitary abscess is suspected.Escherichia coli(E. coli) causing intracranial infections are not well understood and are uncommon in adults. We present an interesting case of an immunocompetent male with a history of hypogonadism presenting with worsening headache and acute right eye vision loss. He was found to have a polymicrobial pituitary abscess predominantly involvingE.   coliin addition toActinomyces odontolyticusandPrevotella melaninogenicain the setting of an apoplectic pituitary prolactinoma. The definitive etiology of this infection was not determined but an odontogenic process was suspected. A chronic third molar eruption and impaction in close proximity to the pituitary gland likely led to contiguous spread of opportunistic oral microorganisms allowing for a polymicrobial pituitary abscess formation.
Freezing of Gait in Parkinson’s Disease Is Associated with Reduced 6-[18F]Fluoro-L-m-tyrosine Uptake in the Locus Coeruleus
Authors: Ono Sayaka Asari , Sato Toshihiko , Muramatsu Shin-ichi
Published: February 2016

Freezing of gait (FOG) is a common disorder in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and could be attributed to a reduction in brain noradrenaline. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between aromaticL-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) activity in the locus coeruleus (LC) and FOG in PD using high-resolution positron emission tomography with an AADC tracer, 6-[18F]fluoro-L-m-tyrosine (FMT). We assessed 40 patients with PD and 11 age-matched healthy individuals. PD was diagnosed based on the UK Brain Bank criteria by two movement disorder experts. FOG was directly observed by the clinician and assessed using a patient questionnaire. FMT uptake in the LC, caudate, and putamen was analyzed using PMOD software on coregistered magnetic resonance images. FOG was present in 30 patients. The severity of FOG correlated with the decrease of FMT uptake in the LC regardless of disease duration and the severity of other motor impairments, indicating dysfunction of the noradrenergic network in FOG.
Vitamin D Supplementation and Hemoglobin Levels in Hypertensive Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ernst Jana B. , Tomaschitz Andreas , Grübler Martin R. , Gaksch Martin , Kienreich Katharina , Verheyen Nicolas , März Winfried , Pilz Stefan , Zittermann Armin
Published: February 2016

Epidemiological evidence suggests that circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels are inversely associated with hemoglobin (Hb) levels and anemia risk. We evaluated whether vitamin D supplementation improves Hb levels and reduces anemia risk in hypertensive patients. Two hundred patients with 25OHD levels <75 nmol/L who attended the Styrian Vitamin D Hypertension Trial were included, of whom 188 completed the trial. Patients randomly received 2800 IU vitamin D3 daily or a matching placebo for eight weeks. Initially, the prevalence of anemic status (Hb levels <12.5 g/dL) and deficient 25OHD levels (<30 nmol/L) was 6.5% and 7.5%, respectively. All anemic patients had 25OHD levels >50 nmol/L. The mean (95% confidence interval) vitamin D effect on Hb levels was 0.04 (−0.14 to 0.22) g/dL (P=0.661). Moreover, vitamin D treatment did not influence anemic status significantly (P>0.999). Likewise, vitamin D had no significant effect on Hb levels in the subgroups of anemic patients or in patients with initial 25OHD levels <30 nmol/L. In conclusion, a daily vitamin D supplement of 2800 IU for eight weeks did not improve Hb levels or anemic status in hypertensive patients. Future trials should focus on anemic patients with deficient 25OHD levels (e.g., <30 nmol/L). This trial is registered with clinicaltrials.gov [NCT02136771].
A Comprehensive Updated Review of Pharmaceutical and Nonpharmaceutical Treatment for NAFLD
Authors: Hossain Newaz , Kanwar Pushpjeet , Mohanty Smruti R.
Published: February 2016

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease in the western world with prevalence of 20–33%. NAFLD comprises a pathological spectrum. Nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is at one end and consists of simple hepatic steatosis. On the contrary, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) consists of steatosis, inflammation, and ballooning degeneration and can progress to cirrhosis. Despite the rising incidence, definitive treatment for NAFLD, specifically NASH, has not yet been established. Lifestyle modification with dietary changes combined with regular aerobic exercise, along with multidisciplinary approach including cognitive behavior therapy, has been shown to be an effective therapeutic option, even without a significant weight loss. Pioglitazone and vitamin E have shown to be most effective in NASH patients. Surgery and weight loss medication are effective means of weight loss but can potentially worsen NASH related fibrosis. Other agents such as n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, probiotics, and pentoxifylline along with herbal agent such as milk thistle as well as daily intake of coffee have shown potential benefits, but further well organized studies are definitely warranted. This review focuses on the available evidence on pharmaceutical and nonpharmaceutical therapy in the treatment and the prevention of NAFLD, primarily NASH.
Management of a Septic Open Abdomen Patient with Spontaneous Jejunal Perforation after Emergent C/S with Confounding Factor of Mild Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Yetisir Fahri , Sarer Akgün Ebru , Acar Hasan Zafer , Osmanoglu Gokhan , Özer Mehmet , Yaylak Faik
Published: February 2016

Introduction. We report the management of a septic Open Abdomen (OA) patient by the help of negative pressure therapy (NPT) and abdominal reapproximation anchor (ABRA) system in pregnant woman with spontaneous jejunal perforation after emergent cesarean section (C/S) with confounding factor of mild acute pancreatitis (AP).Presentation of Case. A 29-year-old and 34-week pregnant woman with AP underwent C/S. She was arrested after anesthesia induction and responded to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). There were only ash-colored serosanguinous fluid within abdomen during C/S. After C/S, she was transferred to intensive care unit (ICU) with vasopressor support. On postoperative 1st day, she underwent reoperation due to fecal fluid coming near the drainage. Leakage point could not be identified exactly and operation had to be deliberately abbreviated due to hemodynamic instability. NPT was applied. Two days later source control was provided by conversion of enteroatmospheric fistula (EAF) to jejunostomy. ABRA was added and OA was closed. No hernia developed at 10-month follow-up period.Conclusion. NPT application in septic OA patient may gain time to patient until adequate source control could be achieved. Using ABRA in conjunction with NPT increases the fascial closure rate in infected OA patient.
Sociodemographic and Lifestyle Determinants of Plasma Oxidative Stress Markers 8‐OHdG and F2‐Isoprostanes and Associations with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Black Catherine N. , Bot Mariska , Scheffer Peter G. , Penninx Brenda W. J. H.
Published: February 2016

Background. Oxidative stress is increasingly important in health research. Therefore, it is necessary to understand which factors determine basal oxidative stress. This study examines the associations of various determinants with markers of oxidative DNA and lipid damage: 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) and F2‐isoprostanes. Methods. Data are from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety; 1117 subjects (18–65 years) without a current psychiatric diagnosis. Multivariable regression analyses were conducted with plasma levels of 8‐OHdG and F2‐isoprostanes (measured by LC/MS‐MS) including sociodemographic, lifestyle, and sampling variables. Associations with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and chronic disease were examined. Results. 8‐OHdG and F2‐isoprostanes were weakly correlated (r = 0.06, p = 0.045). Both were positively associated with age and cotinine (cigarette exposure); 8‐OHdG was lower in females and after longer sample storage. F2‐isoprostanes were higher in females, alcohol users, and in samples collected in spring and lower in supplement users and those with more education. Both markers were lower in fasting subjects. F2‐isoprostanes, not 8‐OHdG, were positively associated with MetS. Conclusion. The weak correlation between 8‐OHdG and F2‐isoprostanes suggests they reflect specific aspects of oxidative stress. Both markers are associated with a range of sociodemographic, lifestyle, and sampling determinants which should be considered in future research. F2‐isoprostanes are associated with MetS.
Liver Stiffness Measurement in Psoriasis: Do Metabolic or Disease Factors Play the Important Role?
Authors: Pongpit Jamrus , Porntharukchareon Saneerat , Kaewduang Piyaporn , Promson Kwannapa , Stitchantrakul Wasana , Petraksa Supanna , Thakkinstian Ammarin , Kositchaiwat Chomsri , Rajatanavin Natta , Sobhonslidsuk Abhasnee
Published: February 2016

Background. An increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) was reported in psoriasis. NAFLD can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and fibrosis. Transient elastography (TE) is a noninvasive liver fibrosis assessment. We evaluated the prevalence of significant liver fibrosis or high liver stiffness measurement (LSM) using the LSM cutoff over 7 kPa and its associated factors in psoriatic patients. Methods. Subjects underwent TE and ultrasonography. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed for the associated factors. Results. One hundred and sixty-eight patients were recruited. Three patients were excluded due to TE failure. Mean BMI was 24.8±4.7 kg/m2. NAFLD, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes were seen in 105 (63.6%), 83 (50.3%), and 31 (18.8%) patients. The total cumulative dose of methotrexate over 1.5 g was seen in 39 (23.6%) patients. Mean LSM was 5.3±2.9 kPa. High LSM was found in 18 (11.0%) patients. Waist circumference (OR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.11–1.38; P=0.0002), diabetes (OR: 12.70; 95% CI: 1.84–87.70; P=0.010), and AST (OR: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.02–1.16; P=0.017) were associated with high LSM. Conclusion. 11% of psoriatic patients had significant liver fibrosis by high LSM. Waist circumference, diabetes, and AST level were the independent predictors.
An Investigation of the Robustness of Physical and Numerical Vanishing Interfacial Tension Experimentation in Determining CO2 + Crude Oil Minimum Miscibility Pressure
Authors: Saini Dayanand
Published: February 2016

Different experimental and theoretical methods are used for predicting the minimum miscibility pressure (MMP) of complex CO2 + reservoir crude oil systems that are of particular interest to petroleum industry. In this paper, published physical and numerical vanishing interfacial tension (VIT) experimentations are critically examined for identifying best practices to reliably predict the CO2 + crude oil MMP. Some of the reported physical VIT experimentation studies appear to follow a portion of full scale VIT experimentation (i.e., a combination of the pendent drop method and the capillary rise technique). The physical VIT experimentation method in which the IFT measurements are made at varying pressures but with the same initial load of live oil and gas phases in the optical cell seems to be the most robust mechanistic procedure for experimentally studying the pressure dependence of IFT behaviors of complex CO2 + crude oil systems and thus determining the MMP using the VIT technique. The results presented here suggest that a basic parachor expression based on numerical VIT experimentation can reasonably follow the physical VIT experimentation in low IFT region, provided measured input data such as equilibrium phase densities and compositions are used in calculations.
Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return in an Elderly
Authors: Koester Stefan , Lee Justin Z. , Lee Kwan S.
Published: February 2016

Background. Partial anomalous pulmonary venous return (PAPVR) is an uncommon congenital abnormality, which may present in the adult population. It is often associated with sinus venosus defect (SVD). The diagnosis and therapy for this condition may be challenging. Case Presentation. We describe a case of an elderly woman who presented with NYHA Class IV dyspnea and was suspected to have symptomatic pulmonary hypertension. She was later found to have anomalous right upper pulmonary vein return to the superior vena cava and associated SVD with bidirectional shunting. Therapeutic options were discussed and medical management alone with aggressive diuresis and sildenafil was adopted. Follow-up visits revealed success in the planned medical therapy. Conclusions. PAPVR is a rare congenital condition that may present during late adulthood. The initial predominant left-to-right shunting associated with this anomaly may go undetected for years with the gradual development of pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure due to right heart volume overload. Awareness of the condition is important, as therapy is time-sensitive with early detection potentially leading to surgical therapy as a viable option.
Magnetoplasmon Excitations at Graphene Vortex Hall Fluid Edge
Authors: Rabiu M. , Mensah S. Y. , Seini I. Y. , Abukari S. S.
Published: February 2016

We investigate magnetoplasmon dynamics localized on the edges of graphene vortex Hall fluid. The vortex matter captures an anomalous term that causes vortex localization near fluid boundary and creates a double boundary layer, Δ0∝(β-1)lB with β being filling factor. The term also has qualitative effect on resonant excitations of edge magnetoplasmons. We found that, for sharp edges under experimental conditions, graphene edge magnetoplasmon (EMP) resonances have similar behavior as in recent experiments. Gradual distinctions arise for smooth edges in the presence of the anomalous term, where a weak EMP peak appears. The second peak becomes well noticed as the smoothness is increased. We identified the resonant mode as an Inter-EMP. It originates from the oscillations of charges in the inner boundary of the double layer. The present observation brings to light the direct cause of Inter-EMP which remained to be detected in graphene experiments.
The Study of Low Calcium Dialysate on Elderly Hemodialysis Patients with Secondary Hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Lu Jian-rao , Yi Yang , Xiong Zhong-xiang , Cheng Xiu-feng , Hu Jing , Hang Hai-yan , Cheng Jie , Peng Wen
Published: February 2016

Objective: The study aimed to study the safety and efficacy of 1.25 mmol/l calcium dialysate on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) in elderly patients who suffered from secondary hypoparathyroidism. Methods: Eighty-two elderly patients (ages ≥65) who had been in MHD with dialysate calcium at 1.5 mmol/l over 6 months and had 2 consecutive serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) measurements at level below 100 pg/ml were selected and randomized into 2 groups: treatment group (41 patients, with dialysate calcium at 1.25 mmol/l) and control group (41 patients, still with dialysate calcium at 1.5 mmol/l). Both groups were studied for the duration of 12 months. The changes of serum iPTH, calcium, phosphorus, calcium and phosphorus product and other indicators as well as related adverse reactions were recorded at the following time points: before the study and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months into the study. In addition, the intimal media thickness (IMT) of carotid artery and abdominal aorta calcification score (AACS) were measured in the 0, 6 and 12 months during the study. Results: (1) In the treatment group, the levels of serum corrected calcium, phosphorus and calcium-phosphate product began to decline after 1 month and exhibited further decrease 3 months later. Serum iPTH level increased significantly after 1 month into the study and the trend continued. The above markers stabilized after month 6. Compared with pre-study markers, the changes of the above markers were significant after study (p < 0.05). (2) The average IMT and AACS were evidently decreased during the 6 and 12 months of study in the treatment group. There was statistical significance (p < 0.05) when compared with the above indexes of the pre-study and the control group. (3) In the control group, there were no significant differences in above laboratory markers over the 12-month study period. (4) There was no significant difference in the adverse events observed between the 2 groups. Conclusion: Safety of low calcium dialysate (dialysate calcium 1.25 mmol/l) in elderly MHD patients with iPTH <100 pg/ml is good, as well as improving carotid IMT, resistance index and AACS as indexes of vascular calcification in the small study group and warrants further investigation.
Gestational Timing of Prenatal Disturbance and Fetal Sex Determine the Developmental Outcomes
Authors: Rendina Danielle N. , Lubach Gabriele R. , Coe Christopher L.
Published: February 2016

Background: Maternal stress during pregnancy can have deleterious consequences, increasing risk for prematurity and low birth weight, as well as postnatal effects on emotional regulation and neuromotor development. It is less clear, however, whether moderate and brief gestational disturbances have similar effects. Objective: To determine the impact of a delimited period of moderate maternal stress on infant growth, emotional reactivity, and neurobehavioral maturity in a nonhuman primate model. Methods: Eighty-three infant rhesus monkeys were generated from disturbed pregnancies, either early or late gestation, and compared with 51 undisturbed infants. Maternal stress was induced with an acoustical startle protocol for 25% of gestation. Infant weights, anthropometrics, and neurobehavioral data were obtained. Analyses focused on differential effects of prenatal stress on male and female infants. Results: The disturbance manipulation elevated cortisol levels acutely in the gravid females and they gained less weight by term. Nevertheless, female infants from the early stress condition were significantly larger at birth. This differential growth trajectory was then sustained through 6 months of age. Infants from stress conditions were more emotionally reactive and evinced immature neuromotor reflexes, especially when gestated by late stress mothers. Conclusions: Even moderate maternal disturbance impacted infant temperament and neuromotor development in this nonhuman primate model. Effects on fetal and infant growth differed from typical reports of growth inhibition, both in other animal species and human studies. The findings convey the importance of considering the duration and severity of prenatal insults, and the potential for fetal plasticity and recovery, permitting compensatory growth responses.
Minimally Invasive Microincision Vitrectomy Surgery with an Intraoperative Dexamethasone Implant for Refractory Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Lee Dong Hoon , Kim Yoon Jeon , Yoon Young Hee
Published: February 2016

Purpose: To evaluate the 1-year results of 25-gauge microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS25) combined with intraoperative dexamethasone (DEX) implant for persistent diabetic macular edema (DME). Methods: This study enrolled patients who had a history of DME for ≥12 months and underwent MIVS25 and DEX implant injection. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) were assessed postoperatively. Results: Eighteen eyes were included in the analysis. Preoperatively, logMAR BCVA was 0.90 and CRT was 594 µm on average. CRT decreased until the 3-month follow-up visit and tended to increase at 6 months, but stabilized at 12 months with additional treatments in five eyes at 5 months postoperatively. Statistically significant improvement in BCVA was noted 1 month after treatment and at each subsequent follow-up visit (p < 0.001). Conclusion: MIVS25 combined with DEX implant injection might be utilized as an effective and safe alternative treatment for intractable DME.
Francisella tularensis Modulates a Distinct Subset of Regulatory Factors and Sustains Mitochondrial Integrity to Impair Human Neutrophil Apoptosis
Authors: McCracken Jenna M. , Kinkead Lauren C. , McCaffrey Ramona L. , Allen Lee-Ann H.
Published: February 2016

Tularemia is a disease characterized by profound neutrophil accumulation and tissue destruction. The causative organism, Francisella tularensis, is a facultative intracellular bacterium that replicates in neutrophil cytosol, inhibits caspase activation and profoundly prolongs cell lifespan. Here, we identify unique features of this infection and provide fundamental insight into the mechanisms of apoptosis inhibition. Mitochondria are critical regulators of neutrophil apoptosis. We demonstrate that F. tularensis significantly inhibits Bax translocation and Bid processing during 24-48 h of infection, and in this manner sustains mitochondrial integrity. Downstream of mitochondria, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) inhibit caspase-9 and caspase-3 by direct binding. Notably, we find that PCNA disappeared rapidly and selectively from infected cells, thereby demonstrating that it is not essential for neutrophil survival, whereas upregulation of calpastatin correlated with diminished calpain activity and reduced XIAP degradation. In addition, R-roscovitine is a cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor developed for the treatment of cancer; it also induces neutrophil apoptosis and can promote the resolution of several infectious and inflammatory disorders. We confirm the ability of R-roscovitine to induce neutrophil apoptosis, but also demonstrate that its efficacy is significantly impaired by F. tularensis. Collectively, our findings advance the understanding of neutrophil apoptosis and its capacity to be manipulated by pathogenic bacteria.
Corneal Biomechanical Properties in Aspirin Users
Authors: Celebi Ali Riza Cenk , Kilavuzoglu Ayse Ebru , Altiparmak Ugur Emrah , Cosar Cemile Banu
Published: February 2016

Purpose: To analyze corneal biomechanical properties in aspirin users using an ocular response analyzer. Methods: This study included 80 eyes of 40 aspirin users and 80 eyes of 40 individuals who did not use aspirin. Corneal hysteresis (CH), the corneal resistance factor (CRF), Goldman-correlated intraocular pressure (IOPg), and corneal compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc) were measured in all participants. The independent samples t test was used to compare measurements in the aspirin users and nonusers in the total study population, and in the diabetic patient subgroup. Pearson's correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between the measured variables in the aspirin users and nonusers. Results: Aspirin users (59.08 ± 11.83 years) were older than nonusers (39.82 ± 12.97 years; p < 0.001). The mean CH was significantly lower in the aspirin user group than in the nonuser group (p = 0.013). Mean IOPg and mean IOPcc were also significantly higher in the aspirin user group (p = 0.027 and p = 0.002, respectively). The mean CRF was lower in the aspirin user group, but not significantly (p = 0.70). There was a positive correlation between CH and CRF (r = 0.767, p < 0.001), and between CRF and IOPg (r = 0.680, p < 0.001), and a negative correlation between CH and IOPcc (r = -0.415, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Aspirin should be taken into account when interpreting the results of corneal biomechanical measurements.
Periungual Pyogenic Granuloma: The Importance of the Medical History
Authors: Alessandrini Aurora , Bruni Francesca , Starace Michela , Piraccini Bianca Maria
Published: February 2016

Pyogenic granuloma (PG) is a common, benign vascular proliferation that can arise on the skin or subcutaneous tissue. It is more frequent in the early decades of life, and the most common locations are the digits of both hands and feet. The most common cause of periungual PG is drug intake, but many other trigger factors have been described in the literature. Treatment should be chosen according to the cause. We describe 2 particular cases of periungual PG in which the clinical history has been fundamental. In the first case, there was an underlying hand eczema, and in the second case, a foreign body was present.
Intrinsic Subtypes of Primary Breast Cancer - Gene Expression Analysis
Authors: Schmidt Marcus , Thomssen Christoph , Untch Michael
Published: February 2016

Intrinsic subtypes based on gene expression have substantially improved the understanding of the biological diversity and heterogeneity of breast cancer. The efficacy of adjuvant therapies depends on the level of risk for an individual patient. Because of this, careful estimation of the level of risk is mandatory. In addition to well-established clinicopathological factors, validated gene expression signatures are useful especially in estrogen receptor-positive and HER2-negative patients. Commercially available gene expression signatures like Prosigna, MammaPrint, Oncotype DX, and EndoPredict are recommended by the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Gynäkologische Onkologie (AGO) for use in selected patients.
Sex Differences in the Incidence of Peripheral Artery Disease in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort
Authors: Wang Grace J. , Shaw Pamela A. , Townsend Raymond R. , Anderson Amanda H. , Xie Dawei , Wang Xue , Nessel Lisa C. , Mohler Emile R. , Sozio Stephen M. , Jaar Bernard G. , Chen Jing , Wright Jackson , Taliercio Jonathan J. , Ojo Akinlolu , Ricardo Ana C. , Lustigova Eva , Fairman Ronald M. , Feldman Harold I. , Ky Bonnie
Published: February 2016

Background—

To define how the incidence of peripheral artery disease (PAD) in chronic kidney disease differs according to sex and age.

Methods and Results—

The Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) is a multicenter, prospective cohort study of chronic kidney disease participants. Fine and Gray methods were used to determine the cumulative incidence of PAD, defined by an ankle brachial index <0.90 or a confirmed PAD event, with death as a competing event. Adjusted subdistribution hazard ratios from the Fine and Gray model determined the risk of PAD according to sex. A priori, we hypothesized that the relationship between sex and cumulative incidence of PAD differed according to age. The mean age of the 3174 participants in this study was 56.6 years and consisted of 55% males. During a median follow-up of 5.9 years, 17.8% developed PAD, 13.0% were lost to follow-up and 11.1% died. Females had a 1.53-fold greater adjusted PAD risk compared with males (95% confidence interval, 1.27–1.84;
P
<0.001). These sex-related differences in PAD risk also differed by age (
P
=0.013). Women, compared with men were at a markedly increased risk for PAD at younger ages; however, at ages >70 years, the risk was similar across both the sexes. Older men had a substantially greater PAD risk compared with younger men. In women, PAD risk did not vary with age.

Conclusions—

Females with chronic kidney disease have a higher PAD risk compared with males at younger ages. There is an important need to improve our understanding of the biological and clinical basis for these differences.
Sex Differences in Outcomes Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention According to Age
Authors: Epps Kelly C. , Holper Elizabeth M. , Selzer Faith , Vlachos Helen A. , Gualano Sarah K. , Abbott J. Dawn , Jacobs Alice K. , Marroquin Oscar C. , Naidu Srihari S. , Groeneveld Peter W. , Wilensky Robert L.
Published: February 2016

Background—

Women <50 years of age with coronary artery disease may represent a group at higher risk for recurrent ischemic events after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI); however, no long-term, multicenter outcomes assessment exists in this population.

Methods and Results—

Using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Dynamic Registry, we evaluated the association of sex and age on cardiovascular-related outcomes in10 963 patients (3797 women, 394 <50 years) undergoing PCI and followed for 5 years. Death, myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and repeat PCI were primary outcomes comprising major adverse cardiovascular events. Although procedural success rates were similar by sex, the cumulative rate of major adverse cardiovascular events at 1 year was higher in young women (27.8 versus 19.9%;
P
=0.003), driven largely by higher rates of repeat revascularizations for target vessel or target lesion failure (coronary artery bypass graft surgery: 8.9% versus 3.9%,
P
<0.001, adjusted hazard ratio 2.4, 95% confidence interval 1.5–4.0; PCI: 19.0% versus 13.0%,
P
=0.005, adjusted hazard ratio 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.2–2.2). At 5 years, young women remained at higher risk for repeat procedures (coronary artery bypass graft surgery: 10.7% versus 6.8%,
P
=0.04, adjusted hazard ratio 1.71, 95% confidence interval 1.01–2.88; repeat PCI [target vessel]: 19.7% versus 11.8%,
P
=0.002, adjusted hazard ratio 1.8, 95% confidence interval 1.24–2.82). Compared with older women, younger women remained at increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, whereas all outcome rates were similar in older women and men.

Conclusions—

Young women, despite having less severe angiographic coronary artery disease, have an increased risk of target vessel and target lesion failure. The causes of this difference deserve further investigation.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00005677.
Sex and Ethnic Differences in Outcomes of Acute Coronary Syndrome and Stable Angina Patients With Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Izadnegahdar Mona , Mackay Martha , Lee May K. , Sedlak Tara L. , Gao Min , Bairey Merz C. Noel , Humphries Karin H.
Published: February 2016

Background—

The joint contribution of sex, ethnicity, and initial clinical presentation to the long-term outcomes of patients undergoing coronary angiography for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or stable angina, in whom there is angiographic evidence for obstructive coronary artery disease, remains unknown.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a population-based cohort study on 49 556 adult ACS or stable angina patients with angiographic evidence of obstructive coronary artery disease (≥50% stenosis) in British Columbia. The 2-year composite outcome was all-cause death and hospital readmissions for myocardial infarction, heart failure, cerebrovascular accident, or angina after the index angiography. Sex and ethnic differences in the composite outcome were examined by clinical presentation using the Cox proportional-hazards and logistic regression models. Overall, 25.6% were women, 9.5% were South Asians, 3.0% were Chinese, and 65.9% presented with ACS. Regardless of ethnicity, women were more likely than men to have adverse outcomes, but the magnitude of the sex difference was greater in the ACS patients (
P
interaction
for sex and clinical presentation=0.03). Angina readmission accounted for 45% of the composite outcome and was the main component for all groups with the exception of Chinese women with ACS. Furthermore, women were more likely than men to be readmitted for angina (odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 1.13 [1.04–1.22]).

Conclusions—

Higher rates of adverse events among women with obstructive coronary artery disease, regardless of ethnicity, as well as high rates of angina readmission, highlight the need for more targeted interventions to reduce the burden of angina because this presentation is clearly not benign.
Sex Differences in Clinical Profiles and Quality of Care Among Patients With ST‐Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction From 2001 to 2011: Insights From the China Patient‐Centered Evaluative Assessment of Cardiac Events (PEACE)‐Retrospective Study
Authors: Du Xue , Spatz Erica S. , Dreyer Rachel P. , Hu Shuang , Wu Chaoqun , Li Xi , Li Jing , Wang Sisi , Masoudi Frederick A. , Spertus John A. , Nasir Khurram , Krumholz Harlan M. , Jiang Lixin ,   for the China PEACE Collaborative Group
Published: February 2016

Background

China is experiencing a marked increase in
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction hospitalizations, with 30% occurring among women and higher risk of in‐hospital death in relatively younger age groups (<70). Yet, little is known about sex differences in
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction presentation and management.

Methods and Results

In a nationally representative sample of patients with
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction admitted to 162 Chinese hospitals in 2001, 2006, and 2011, we examined sex differences in hospitalization rates, clinical profiles, and quality of care. Among 11 986 patients, the proportion of women was unchanged between 2001 and 2011. The estimated national rates of hospital admission per 100 000 people increased from 4.6 in 2001 to 18.0 in 2011 among men (3.9‐fold increase) and from 1.9 to 8.0 among women (4.2‐fold increase) (
P
trend
<0.0001). The median age of women increased from 68 years in 2001 to 72 years in 2011 (
P
trend
<0.001); however, there was no age change in men (63 years in 2011) (
P
trend
=0.48). After accounting for age, women had a higher frequency of comorbidities. Although there were significant sex differences in the time interval of >12 hours between symptom onset and admission time in 2001, since 2006 delays in presentation were comparable between women and men. Fewer women without contraindications received evidence‐based therapies than men, including reperfusion (57.5% versus 44.2%), early aspirin (88.8% versus 85.9%), and clopidogrel (56.9% versus 52.5%,
P
<0.001 for all) and the differences were largely unchanged over time.

Conclusions

Women experienced a higher increase in hospitalization rates for
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction in China between 2001 and 2011 and were less likely to receive evidence‐based therapies, especially reperfusion. In addition to efforts to improve quality of care generally, understanding the reasons for this sex disparity and addressing these differences in care should be a priority.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
01624883.