bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligibility Evaluation of Pathological Speech through Multigranularity Feature Extraction and Optimization
Authors: Fang Chunying , Li Haifeng , Ma Lin , Zhang Mancai
Published: January 2017

Pathological speech usually refers to speech distortion resulting from illness or other biological insults. The assessment of pathological speech plays an important role in assisting the experts, while automatic evaluation of speech intelligibility is difficult because it is usually nonstationary and mutational. In this paper, we carry out an independent innovation of feature extraction and reduction, and we describe a multigranularity combined feature scheme which is optimized by the hierarchical visual method. A novel method of generating feature set based on S-transform and chaotic analysis is proposed. There are BAFS (430, basic acoustics feature), local spectral characteristics MSCC (84, Mel S-transform cepstrum coefficients), and chaotic features (12). Finally, radar chart and F-score are proposed to optimize the features by the hierarchical visual fusion. The feature set could be optimized from 526 to 96 dimensions based on NKI-CCRT corpus and 104 dimensions based on SVD corpus. The experimental results denote that new features by support vector machine (SVM) have the best performance, with a recognition rate of 84.4% on NKI-CCRT corpus and 78.7% on SVD corpus. The proposed method is thus approved to be effective and reliable for pathological speech intelligibility evaluation.
Hybrid Rational Haar Wavelet and Block Pulse Functions Method for Solving Population Growth Model and Abel Integral Equations
Authors: Fathizadeh E. , Ezzati R. , Maleknejad K.
Published: January 2017

We use a computational method based on rational Haar wavelet for solving nonlinear fractional integro‐differential equations. To this end, we apply the operational matrix of fractional integration for rational Haar wavelet. Also, to show the efficiency of the proposed method, we solve particularly population growth model and Abel integral equations and compare the numerical results with the exact solutions.
Mismatch Based Diagnosis of PV Fields Relying on Monitored String Currents
Authors: Guerriero Pierluigi , Piegari Luigi , Rizzo Renato , Daliento Santolo
Published: January 2017

This paper presents a DC side oriented diagnostic method for photovoltaic fields which operates on string currents previously supplied by an appropriate monitoring system. The relevance of the work relies on the definition of an effective and reliable day-by-day target for the power that every string of the field should have produced. The procedure is carried out by comparing the instantaneous power produced by all solar strings having the same orientation and by attributing, as producible power for all of them, the maximum value. As figure of merit, the difference between the maximum allowed energy production (evaluated as the integral of the power during a defined time interval) and the energy actually produced by the strings is defined. Such a definition accounts for both weather and irradiance conditions, without needing additional sensors. The reliability of the approach was experimentally verified by analyzing the performance of two medium size solar fields that were monitored over a period of four years. Results allowed quantifying energy losses attributable to underperforming solar strings and precisely locating their position in the field.
Passage of an Anterior Odontoid Screw through Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Leitner L. , Brückmann C. I. , Gilg M. M. , Bratschitsch G. , Sadoghi P. , Leithner A. , Radl R.
Published: January 2017

Purpose. Anterior screw fixation has become a popular surgical treatment method for instable odontoid fractures. Screw loosening and migration are a rare, severe complication following anterior odontoid fixation, which can lead to esophagus perforation and requires revision operation. Methods. We report a case of screw loosening and migration after anterior odontoid fixation, which perforated the esophagus and was excreted without complications in a 78-year-old male patient. Results. A ventral dislocated anterior screw perforated through the esophagus after eight years after implantation and was excreted through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. At a 6-month follow-up after the event the patient was asymptomatic. Conclusion. Extrusion via the GI tract is not safe enough to be considered as a treatment option for loosened screws. Some improvements could be implemented to prevent such an incident. Furthermore, this case is a fine example that recent preoperative imaging is mandatory before revision surgery for screw loosening.
Simultaneous Determination of 5 Flavonoids and 7 Saponins for Quality Control of Traditional Chinese Medicine Preparation Xinnaoshutong Capsule Using HPLC-VWD-ELSD
Authors: Li Jin , Bai Yang , Zhang Peng , He Jun , Cao Jun , An Mingrui , Hu Li-min , Gao Xiu-mei , Chang Yan-xu
Published: January 2017

Xinnaoshutong capsule (XC) is a traditional Chinese prescription derived from the ripe fruit of Tribulus terrestris L. (TT). Although XC has long been considered as an important herbal medicine, no analytical method of marker compounds for quality assessment is registered in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. A simple analytical method of twelve marker components was developed and validated by HPLC-VWD-ELSD method. Chromatographic separation by HPLC was carried out on a Hedera ODS 2 column (4.6 × 250 mm, 5 μm) by gradient elution with acetonitrile-water (0.1% formic acid) as the mobile phase. Various extraction conditions were optimized to achieve twelve marker compounds with faster extraction and higher recovery. The analytical condition was then validated in terms of the linearity, accuracy and precision, repeatability, and stability. The twelve markers were successfully quantified in 30 batches of commercial samples. The developed HPLC-VWD-ELSD could be used as a rapid and reliable way in the assessment and quality control of XC and TT.
New Operational Matrix via Genocchi Polynomials for Solving Fredholm-Volterra Fractional Integro-Differential Equations
Authors: Loh Jian Rong , Phang Chang , Isah Abdulnasir
Published: January 2017

It is known that Genocchi polynomials have some advantages over classical orthogonal polynomials in approximating function, such as lesser terms and smaller coefficients of individual terms. In this paper, we apply a new operational matrix via Genocchi polynomials to solve fractional integro-differential equations (FIDEs). We also derive the expressions for computing Genocchi coefficients of the integral kernel and for the integral of product of two Genocchi polynomials. Using the matrix approach, we further derive the operational matrix of fractional differentiation for Genocchi polynomial as well as the kernel matrix. We are able to solve the aforementioned class of FIDE for the unknown function f(x). This is achieved by approximating the FIDE using Genocchi polynomials in matrix representation and using the collocation method at equally spaced points within interval [0,1]. This reduces the FIDE into a system of algebraic equations to be solved for the Genocchi coefficients of the solution f(x). A few numerical examples of FIDE are solved using those expressions derived for Genocchi polynomial approximation. Numerical results show that the Genocchi polynomial approximation adopting the operational matrix of fractional derivative achieves good accuracy comparable to some existing methods. In certain cases, Genocchi polynomial provides better accuracy than the aforementioned methods.
Water Pollution Detection Based on Hypothesis Testing in Sensor Networks
Authors: Luo Xu , Yang Jun
Published: January 2017

Water pollution detection is of great importance in water conservation. In this paper, the water pollution detection problems of the network and of the node in sensor networks are discussed. The detection problems in both cases of the distribution of the monitoring noise being normal and nonnormal are considered. The pollution detection problems are analyzed based on hypothesis testing theory firstly; then, the specific detection algorithms are given. Finally, two implementation examples are given to illustrate how the proposed detection methods are used in the water pollution detection in sensor networks and prove the effectiveness of the proposed detection methods.
Osteopontin: Relation between Adipose Tissue and Bone Homeostasis
Authors: De Fusco Carolina , Messina Antonietta , Monda Vincenzo , Viggiano Emanuela , Moscatelli Fiorenzo , Valenzano Anna , Esposito Teresa , Sergio Chieffi , Cibelli Giuseppe , Monda Marcellino , Messina Giovanni
Published: January 2017

Osteopontin (OPN) is a multifunctional protein mainly associated with bone metabolism and remodeling. Besides its physiological functions, OPN is implicated in the pathogenesis of a variety of disease states, such as obesity and osteoporosis. Importantly, during the last decades obesity and osteoporosis have become among the main threats to health worldwide. Because OPN is a protein principally expressed in cells with multifaceted effects on bone morphogenesis and remodeling and because it seems to be one of the most overexpressed genes in the adipose tissue of the obese contributing to osteoporosis, this mini review will highlight recent insights about relation between adipose tissue and bone homeostasis.
Simultaneous Left Ventricular and Deep Vein Thrombi Caused by Protein C Deficiency
Authors: Maki Harufumi , Nishiyama Motohiro , Shirakawa Motoaki
Published: January 2017

Protein C deficiency is a risk of venous thrombosis because of poor fibrinolytic activity. It remains controversial whether protein C deficiency causes arterial thrombosis. A 21-year-old woman was referred with a chief complaint of right leg pain and numbness. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a low-density mass in the left ventricle (LV), splenic infarction, and peripheral arterial obstructions in her right leg. Thrombosis extending from the renal vein to the inferior vena cava was also detected. Electrocardiography revealed ST depression in leads II, III, and aVF. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed hypokinesis of the apex and interventricular septum and a hypoechoic mass in the LV (26 × 20 mm). She was diagnosed with acute arterial obstruction caused by the LV thrombus, which might have resulted from previous myocardial infarction. Protein C activation turned out to be low (41%) 5 days after admission. The anticoagulant therapy was switched from heparin to rivaroxaban 16 days after admission. The LV thrombus disappeared 24 days after initial treatment, and she has had no thrombotic episodes for 2.8 years under rivaroxaban therapy. Thrombophilia should be investigated for cases of simultaneous left ventricular and deep venous thrombi. Rivaroxaban can be effective in prevention of further thrombotic events.
Effect of Mahuang Gancao Ganjiang Decoction on Fusion and Fission of Mitochondria and Apoptosis of Lymphocytes in Mice under Cold Stress
Authors: Chen Longyun , Chen Huimin
Published: January 2017

Mahuang Gancao Ganjiang Decoction (MGGD) can effectively alleviate the symptoms of the patients suffering from exogenous cold stress. However, the curative mechanism has not been fully clarified. This study was designed to investigate the effect of MGGD on the apoptosis of lymphocytes induced by cold stress in mice. The model mice were randomly divided into four groups: the normal control group (no handling mice), cold stress group, MGGD + cold stress group, and MGGD group. Lymphocytes of the mice were isolated from the peripheral blood. Electron microscopy analysis revealed cold stress resulted in mitochondrial fragmentation. Accompanied with the change of morphology of mitochondria, ATP production and the activity of respiratory chain complex decreased in these cells. Western blot analysis showed that these cells expressed decreased fusion‐related proteins Mitofusin 1 (Mfn1), Mitofusin 2 (Mfn2), and optic atrophy protein‐1 (Opa‐1) and increased fission‐related proteins dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) and fission 1 (Fis‐1); our results also show that decreased mitochondrial fusion induces cell apoptosis during cold stress. Meanwhile, we found MGGD can inhibit cell apoptosis induced by cold stress through regulating expression level of Mfn1, Mfn2, Drp1, Fis‐1, and Opa‐1. These findings are very significant for understanding how MGGD regulates cold‐stress‐induced cell apoptosis.
Substrate Stiffness Influences Doxorubicin-Induced p53 Activation via ROCK2 Expression
Authors: Ebata Takahiro , Mitsui Yasumasa , Sugimoto Wataru , Maeda Miho , Araki Keigo , Machiyama Hiroaki , Harada Ichiro , Sawada Yasuhiro , Fujita Hideaki , Hirata Hiroaki , Kawauchi Keiko
Published: January 2017

The physical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM), such as stiffness, are involved in the determination of the characteristics of cancer cells, including chemotherapy sensitivity. Resistance to chemotherapy is often linked to dysfunction of tumor suppressor p53; however, it remains elusive whether the ECM microenvironment interferes with p53 activation in cancer cells. Here, we show that, in MCF-7 breast cancer cells, extracellular stiffness influences p53 activation induced by the antitumor drug doxorubicin. Cell growth inhibition by doxorubicin was increased in response to ECM rigidity in a p53-dependent manner. The expression of Rho-associated coiled coil-containing protein kinase (ROCK) 2, which induces the activation of myosin II, was significantly higher when cells were cultured on stiffer ECM substrates. Knockdown of ROCK2 expression or pharmacological inhibition of ROCK decreased doxorubicin-induced p53 activation. Our results suggest that a soft ECM causes downregulation of ROCK2 expression, which drives resistance to chemotherapy by repressing p53 activation.
Alterations in Cortical Thickness and White Matter Integrity in Mild-to-Moderate Communicating Hydrocephalic School-Aged Children Measured by Whole-Brain Cortical Thickness Mapping and DTI
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Ye Xinjian , Bai Guanghui , Fu Yuchuan , Mao Chuanwan , Wu Aiqin , Liu Xiaozheng , Yan Zhihan
Published: January 2017

Follow-up observation is required for mild-to-moderate hydrocephalic patients because of the potential damage to brain. However, effects of mild-to-moderate hydrocephalus on gray and white matter remain unclear in vivo. Using structural MRI and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), current study compared the cortical thickness and white matter integrity between children with mild-to-moderate communicating hydrocephalus and healthy controls. The relationships between cortical changes and intelligence quota were also examined in patients. We found that cortical thickness in the left middle temporal and left rostral middle frontal gyrus was significantly lower in the hydrocephalus group compared with that of controls. Fractional anisotropy in the right corpus callosum body was significantly lower in the hydrocephalus group compared with that of controls. In addition, there was no association of cortical thinning or white matter fractional anisotropy with intelligence quota in either group. Thus, our findings provide clues to that mild-to-moderate hydrocephalus could lead to structural brain deficits especially in the middle temporal and middle frontal gyrus prior to the behavior changes.
Developing Intervention Strategies to Optimise Body Composition in Early Childhood in South Africa
Authors: Draper Catherine E. , Tomaz Simone A. , Stone Matthew , Hinkley Trina , Jones Rachel A. , Louw Johann , Twine Rhian , Kahn Kathleen , Norris Shane A.
Published: January 2017

Purpose. The purpose of this research was to collect data to inform intervention strategies to optimise body composition in South African preschool children.Methods. Data were collected in urban and rural settings. Weight status, physical activity, and gross motor skill assessments were conducted with 341 3–6-year-old children, and 55 teachers and parents/caregivers participated in focus groups.Results. Overweight and obesity were a concern in low-income urban settings (14%), but levels of physical activity and gross motor skills were adequate across all settings. Focus group findings from urban and rural settings indicated that teachers would welcome input on leading activities to promote physical activity and gross motor skill development. Teachers and parents/caregivers were also positive about young children being physically active. Recommendations for potential intervention strategies include a teacher-training component, parent/child activity mornings, and a home-based component for parents/caregivers.Conclusion. The findings suggest that an intervention focussed on increasing physical activity and improving gross motor skills per se is largely not required but that contextually relevant physical activity and gross motor skills may still be useful for promoting healthy weight and a vehicle for engaging with teachers and parents/caregivers for promoting other child outcomes, such as cognitive development.
Certain Subclasses of Multivalent Functions Defined by Higher-Order Derivative
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Ding Deng , Xu Liping , Qin Chuan , Hu Songbo
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we define and study some subclasses of multivalent analytic functions of higher order in the unit disc. These classes generalize some classes previously studied. We obtain coefficient inequalities, distortion theorems, extreme points, and integral mean inequalities. We derive some results as special cases.
Effects of a Novel Glucokinase Activator, HMS5552, on Glucose Metabolism in a Rat Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wang Ping , Liu Huili , Chen Li , Duan Yingli , Chen Qunli , Xi Shoumin
Published: January 2017

Glucokinase (GK) plays a critical role in the control of whole-body glucose homeostasis. We investigated the possible effects of a novel glucokinase activator (GKA), HMS5552, to the GK in rats with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into four groups: control group, diabetic group, low-dose (10 mg/kg) HMS5552-treated diabetic group (HMS-L), and high-dose (30 mg/kg) HMS5552-treated diabetic group (HMS-H). HMS5552 was administered intragastrically to the T2DM rats for one month. The levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, fasting plasma insulin (FINS), and glucagon (FG) were determined, and an oral glucose tolerance test was performed. The expression patterns of proteins and genes associated with insulin resistance and GK activity were assayed. Compared with diabetic rats, the FINS level was significantly decreased in the HMS5552-treated diabetic rats. HMS5552 treatment significantly lowered the blood glucose levels and improved GK activity and insulin resistance. The immunohistochemistry, western blot, and semiquantitative RT-PCR results further demonstrated the effects of HMS5552 on the liver and pancreas. Our data suggest that the novel GKA, HMS5552, exerts antidiabetic effects on the liver and pancreas by improving GK activity and insulin resistance, which holds promise as a novel drug for the treatment of T2DM patients.
The Prognostic Role of NEDD9 and P38 Protein Expression Levels in Urinary Bladder Transitional Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Harb Ola A. , Haggag Rasha , Ali Maged M. , El Shorbagy Shereen , Abdelbary Abeer M. , Abdelaziz Lobna A. , Salim Reham A. , Abdel Wahab Khaled M.
Published: January 2017

Background. The most common malignant tumor of the urinary bladder is transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). Neural precursor cell-expressed developmentally downregulated protein 9 (NEDD9) is found to be a cell adhesion mediator. P38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase is a serine/threonine kinases member which can mediate carcinogenesis through intracellular signaling. Methods. To assess their prognostic role; NEDD9 and p38 protein were evaluated in sections from 50 paraffin blocks of TCC. Results. The high expressions of NEDD9 and p38 protein were significantly associated with grade, stage, distant metastasis (p<0.001), number of tumors, lymph node metastasis, and tumor size (p<0.001, 0.002; 0.018, <0.001; and 0.004, 0.007, respectively). High NEDD9 and p38 detection had a worse 3-year OS (p=0.041 and <0.001, respectively). By multivariate analysis the NEDD9 and p38 protein expression levels and various clinicopathological criteria including gender, grade, stage of the tumor, and regional lymph node involvement were independent prognostic parameters of TCC of the urinary bladder patients’ outcome. Conclusion. NEDD9 and p38 protein expressions were poor prognostic markers of TCC.
Threshold Dynamics in Stochastic SIRS Epidemic Models with Nonlinear Incidence and Vaccination
Authors: Wang Lei , Teng Zhidong , Tang Tingting , Li Zhiming
Published: January 2017

In this paper, the dynamical behaviors for a stochastic SIRS epidemic model with nonlinear incidence and vaccination are investigated. In the models, the disease transmission coefficient and the removal rates are all affected by noise. Some new basic properties of the models are found. Applying these properties, we establish a series of new threshold conditions on the stochastically exponential extinction, stochastic persistence, and permanence in the mean of the disease with probability one for the models. Furthermore, we obtain a sufficient condition on the existence of unique stationary distribution for the model. Finally, a series of numerical examples are introduced to illustrate our main theoretical results and some conjectures are further proposed.
Mesh Inguinal Hernia Repair and Appendectomy in the Treatment of Amyand’s Hernia with Non-Inflamed Appendices
Authors: Kose Emin , Sisik Abdullah , Hasbahceci Mustafa
Published: January 2017

Amyand’s hernia is defined as protrusion of the vermiform appendix in an inguinal hernia sac. It is a rare entity with variable clinical presentation from normal vermiform appendix to abscess formation due to perforation of acute appendicitis. Although surgical treatment includes appendectomy and hernia repair, appendectomy in the absence of an inflamed appendix and use of a mesh in cases of appendectomy remain to be controversial. The aim of this study was to review the experience of mesh inguinal hernia repair plus appendectomy performed for Amyand’s hernia with noninflamed appendices. There were five male patients with a mean age of 42.4 ± 16.1 years in this retrospective study in which Amyand’s hernia was treated with mesh inguinal hernia repair plus appendectomy for noninflamed appendices. Patients with acute appendicitis and perforated vermiform appendix were excluded. There were four right sided and one bilateral inguinal hernia. Postoperative courses were uneventful. During the follow-up period (14.0 ± 7.7 months), there was no inguinal hernia recurrence. Mesh inguinal hernia repair with appendectomy can be performed for Amyand’s hernia in the absence of acute appendicitis. However, presence of fibrous connections between the vermiform appendix and the surrounding hernia sac may be regarded as a parameter to perform appendectomy.
Efficient Enhancement for Spatial Scalable Video Coding Transmission
Authors: Khairy Mayada , Hamdy Alaa , Elsayed Amr , Farouk Hesham
Published: January 2017

Scalable Video Coding (SVC) is an international standard technique for video compression. It is an extension of H.264 Advanced Video Coding (AVC). In the encoding of video streams by SVC, it is suitable to employ the macroblock (MB) mode because it affords superior coding efficiency. However, the exhaustive mode decision technique that is usually used for SVC increases the computational complexity, resulting in a longer encoding time (ET). Many other algorithms were proposed to solve this problem with imperfection of increasing transmission time (TT) across the network. To minimize the ET and TT, this paper introduces four efficient algorithms based on spatial scalability. The algorithms utilize the mode‐distribution correlation between the base layer (BL) and enhancement layers (ELs) and interpolation between the EL frames. The proposed algorithms are of two categories. Those of the first category are based on interlayer residual SVC spatial scalability. They employ two methods, namely, interlayer interpolation (ILIP) and the interlayer base mode (ILBM) method, and enable ET and TT savings of up to 69.3% and 83.6%, respectively. The algorithms of the second category are based on full‐search SVC spatial scalability. They utilize two methods, namely, full interpolation (FIP) and the full‐base mode (FBM) method, and enable ET and TT savings of up to 55.3% and 76.6%, respectively.
Self-Medication Pattern among Social Science University Students in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Gelayee Dessalegn Asmelashe
Published: January 2017

Background. Inappropriate self-medication causes wastage of resources among others.Method. This survey study was conducted to determine self-medication pattern of 404 social science university students in Northwest Ethiopia, who were selected through stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS version 20 statistical software. Binary Logistic Regression analysis was employed withPvalue < 0.05 considered statistically significant.Result. At 95.3% response rate, mean age of 21.26 ± 1.76 years, and male/female ratio of 1.26, the prevalence of self-medication during the six month recall period was 32.7%. Headache (N=87, 69.1%) was the primary complaint that prompted the practice and hence analgesics (N=67, 53.2%) were the mostly used drugs followed by antimicrobials (N=50, 39.7%). The top two reasons driving the practice were nonseverity of the illness (N=41, 32.5%) and suggestions from friends (N=33, 26.2%). Female sex (P=0.042) and higher income (P=0.044) were associated with the practice.Conclusion. Self-medication practice, involving the use of both nonprescription and prescription drugs such as antimicrobials, among the social science university students is high. Therefore health education interventions regarding the risks of inappropriate self-medication are essential.
Effect of Discrete Levels Width Error on the Optical Performance of the Diffractive Binary Lens
Authors: Alshami Manal , Mousselly Mohamed Fawaz , Wabby Anas
Published: January 2017

The effects of discrete levels width error developed by thin film deposition on the optical performance of diffractive binary germanium lens with four discrete levels are investigated using nonsequential mode in the optical design code ZEMAX. The thin film deposition technique errors considered are metallic mask fabrication errors. The peak value of the Point Spread Function (PSF) was used as criterion to show the effect of discrete levels width error on the optical performance of the four-level binary germanium lens.
Goat Production in El Salvador: A Focus on Animal Health, Milking Hygiene, and Raw Milk Quality
Authors: Linderot de Cardona Kristina , De Gracia Scanapieco Abelardo , Braun Peggy G.
Published: January 2017

Often referred to as “the poor man’s cow,” goats are important livestock in developing countries and in El Salvador goat management and milk are growing in popularity. This study focuses on the general health of Salvadoran goats and national husbandry systems as well as goat products and milking hygiene. The survey was submitted in western and central parts of the country: 191 goat owners were interviewed on animal management and production, 434 goats underwent a basic clinical exam, and raw milk samples were taken from 60 lactating does. Milk samples were examined for total plate count, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonellaspp.,Escherichia coli,andListeria monocytogenes. The majority of goats were managed under a traditional husbandry system naming milk production as their main purpose. Based on the physical exam, the overall goat health was acceptable but in need of improvement. The results of the raw milk samples did not indicate a mayor microbial contamination. Development programs and education of Salvadoran goat owners are recommended to improve goats’ health and productivity in El Salvador. Further studies on the microbial quality on raw goat’s milk are necessary to determine the health risk when consumed. The information obtained in this investigation will serve as a base for future projects.
Is p53 Involved in Tissue‐Specific Insulin Resistance Formation?
Authors: Strycharz Justyna , Drzewoski Jozef , Szemraj Janusz , Sliwinska Agnieszka
Published: January 2017

p53 constitutes an extremely versatile molecule, primarily involved in sensing the variety of cellular stresses. Functional p53 utilizes a plethora of mechanisms to protect cell from deleterious repercussions of genotoxic insults, where senescence deserves special attention. While the impressive amount of p53 roles has been perceived solely by the prism of antioncogenic effect, its presence seems to be vastly connected with metabolic abnormalities underlain by cellular aging, obesity, and inflammation. p53 has been found to regulate multiple biochemical processes such as glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, lipolysis, lipogenesis, β‐oxidation, gluconeogenesis, and glycogen synthesis. Notably, p53‐mediated metabolic effects are totally up to results of insulin action. Accumulating amount of data identifies p53 to be a factor activated upon hyperglycemia or excessive calorie intake, thus contributing to low‐grade chronic inflammation and systemic insulin resistance. Prominent signs of its actions have been observed in muscles, liver, pancreas, and adipose tissue being associated with attenuation of insulin signalling. p53 is of crucial importance for the regulation of white and brown adipogenesis simultaneously being a repressor for preadipocyte differentiation. This review provides a profound insight into p53‐dependent metabolic actions directed towards promotion of insulin resistance as well as presenting experimental data regarding obesity‐induced p53‐mediated metabolic abnormalities.
Fatty Liver Index and Lipid Accumulation Product Can Predict Metabolic Syndrome in Subjects without Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Cheng Yuan-Lung , Wang Yuan-Jen , Lan Keng-Hsin , Huo Teh-Ia , Huang Yi-Hsiang , Su Chien-Wei , Hsieh Wei-Yao , Hou Ming-Chih , Lin Han-Chieh , Lee Fa-Yauh , Wu Jaw-Ching , Lee Shou-Dong
Published: January 2017

Background. Fatty liver index (FLI) and lipid accumulation product (LAP) are indexes originally designed to assess the risk of fatty liver and cardiovascular disease, respectively. Both indexes have been proven to be reliable markers of subsequent metabolic syndrome; however, their ability to predict metabolic syndrome in subjects without fatty liver disease has not been clarified.Methods. We enrolled consecutive subjects who received health check-up services at Taipei Veterans General Hospital from 2002 to 2009. Fatty liver disease was diagnosed by abdominal ultrasonography. The ability of the FLI and LAP to predict metabolic syndrome was assessed by analyzing the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve.Results. Male sex was strongly associated with metabolic syndrome, and the LAP and FLI were better than other variables to predict metabolic syndrome among the 29,797 subjects. Both indexes were also better than other variables to detect metabolic syndrome in subjects without fatty liver disease (AUROC: 0.871 and 0.879, resp.), and the predictive power was greater among women.Conclusion. Metabolic syndrome increases the cardiovascular disease risk. The FLI and LAP could be used to recognize the syndrome in both subjects with and without fatty liver disease who require lifestyle modifications and counseling.
Customized Cooking Methods Enhance Antioxidant, Antiglycemic, and Insulin-Like Properties ofMomordica charantiaandMoringa oleifera
Authors: Subramaniam Sarasvathy , Rosdi Muhammad Hafiz B. , Kuppusamy Umah Rani
Published: January 2017

The current study compares antioxidant activities, total phenolic content (TPC), vitamin C content, and antiglycemic properties ofMomordica charantia(small bitter gourd) andMoringa oleifera(drumstick leaves) before and after subjecting to boiling and microwave heating for different durations. Both cooking methods enhanced the antioxidant activity and vitamin C content in the vegetables studied when cooked for five minutes and these properties declined when the cooking time was prolonged to 20 minutes. Cooking also retained or slightly improved theα-glucosidase enzyme inhibition activity of the vegetables; however, it reduced the ability of the vegetable extracts to inhibitα-amylase enzyme activity. The antioxidant activities were positively correlated with the TPC and vitamin C content in the vegetable extracts tested. The present study also evaluated the insulin-like properties (stimulation of adipogenesis) of selected vegetable extracts (five minutes microwaved). 3T3-L1 adipocytes treated with small bitter gourd extract significantly stimulated lipogenesis (in the absence of insulin) compared to drumstick leaves. Thus, the finding of this study negates the belief that cooking will reduce the nutritional value of the vegetables and also suggested that appropriate cooking method and duration for different vegetables could be selected to improve or preserve their nutritional value.
Video-Assisted Informed Consent for Cataract Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhang Yuehong , Ruan Xiangcai , Tang Haoying , Yang Weizhong , Xian Zhuanhua , Lu Min
Published: January 2017

Purpose. To investigate whether adding video assistance to traditional verbal informed consent advisement improved satisfaction among cataract surgery patients.Methods. This trial enrolled 80 Chinese patients with age-related cataracts scheduled to undergo unilateral phacoemulsification surgery. Patients were randomized into two groups: the video group watched video explaining cataract-related consent information and rewatched specific segments of the video at their own discretion, before receiving traditional verbal consent advisement; the control group did not watch the video. Outcomes included patient satisfaction, refusal to consent, time to complete the consent process, and comprehension measured by a ten-item questionnaire.Results. All 80 enrolled patients signed informed consent forms. Compared with the control group, members of the video group exhibited greater satisfaction (65% versus 86%,p=0.035) and required less time to complete the consent process (12.3±6.7 min versus5.6±5.4 min,p<0.001), while also evincing levels of comprehension commensurate with those reported for patients who did not watch the video (accuracy rate, 77.5% versus 80.2%,p=0.386).Conclusion. The video-assisted informed consent process had a positive impact on patients’ cataract surgery experiences. Additional research is needed to optimize patients’ comprehension of the video.
Fondos de pensiones y criterios éticos de inversión
Authors: Latorre Juan Ignacio
Published: January 2017

Los fondos de pensiones que actualmente administran las AFP acumulan unos US$ 170 mil millones, equivalente a un 70% del PIB de Chile. Estas invierten con criterios de optimización de rentabilidad y riesgo en distintos instrumentos del mercado de capitales nacional y en el sistema financiero internacional. El artículo considera la posibilidad de incorporar complementariamente criterios éticos de inversión y revisa experiencias internacionales donde se aplican dichos criterios, tales como Noruega, Suecia y Canadá. Se plantean algunas reflexiones en torno a la potencial contribución de los fondos de pensiones al Desarrollo Sostenible en Chile.
Associations of Maternal Leptin with Neonatal Adiposity Differ according to Pregravid Weight
Authors: Patenaude Julie , Lacerte Guillaume , Lacroix Marilyn , Guillemette Laetitia , Allard Catherine , Doyon Myriam , Battista Marie-Claude , Moreau Julie , Ménard Julie , Ardilouze Jean-Luc , Perron Patrice , Hivert Marie-France
Published: January 2017

Background: During pregnancy, maternal circulating leptin is released by maternal adipose tissue and the placenta, and may have a role in fetal development. Objectives: We investigated maternal leptinemia and glycemia associations with neonatal adiposity, taking into account pregravid weight status. Methods: We included 235 pregnant women from the Genetics of Glucose Regulation in Gestation and Growth prospective cohort with data: blood samples collected during the 2nd trimester, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and the measured leptin and glucose levels. As an integrated measure of maternal leptin exposure, we calculated the area under the curve for maternal leptin at the OGTT (AUCleptin). Within 72 h of delivery, we measured the triceps, biceps, subscapular, and suprailiac skinfold thicknesses (SFTs); the sum of these SFTs represented neonatal adiposity. We conducted a regression analysis to assess the maternal metabolic determinants of neonatal adiposity, adjusting for parity, smoking status, maternal triglyceride levels, gestational weight gain, placental weight, delivery mode, neonate sex, and gestational age at delivery. Results: The pregravid BMI of the participating women was 23.3 (21.2-27.0). In the 2nd trimester, maternal AUCleptin was 1,292.0 (767.0-2,222.5) (ng × min)/mL, and fasting glucose levels were 4.2 ± 0.4 mmol/L. At delivery, the neonatal sum of 4 SFTs was 17.9 ± 3.3 mm. Higher maternal leptinemia was associated with higher neonatal adiposity (β = 4.23 mm [SE = 1.77] per log-AUCleptin; p = 0.02) in mothers with a BMI ≥25, independently of confounders and maternal glycemia, but not in mothers with a BMI <25. Higher maternal fasting glucose was associated with higher neonatal adiposity (β = 0.88 mm [SE = 0.30] per SD glucose; p = 0.005) in mothers with a BMI <25, independently of confounders and maternal leptinemia. Conclusion: Maternal leptinemia may be associated with neonatal adiposity in offspring from overweight/obese mothers, independently of maternal glycemia.
Human Cytomegalovirus Infection in Nonimmunocompromised Patients: A Retrospective Analysis and Review of the Literature
Authors: Zedtwitz-Liebenstein Konstantin , Diab-Elschahaw Magda , Frass Michael
Published: January 2017

In a retrospective analysis of patients visiting the Outpatient Department of the Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine over a period of 3 years, we found a high incidence of symptomatic nonsevere human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection in nonimmunocompromised patients. We present 11 symptomatic cases of HCMV infection in nonimmunocompromised patients with non-life-threatening symptoms like long-lasting depletion, fatigue, and subfebrile fever with or without muscular pain and arthralgia. Although the symptoms were not life-threatening, all of the patients suffered a prolonged duration of the disease until improvement. These cases reinforce the important fact that HCMV infections in nonimmunocompromised patients are not always asymptomatic. Therefore, HCMV infection should always be included in the differential diagnosis of patients with unspecific signs of disease like depletion, subfebrile fever, and arthralgia.
Recurrent Uveal Effusion after Laser Iridotomy
Authors: Sakai Hiroshi , Yonahara Michiko , Sakai Miyako
Published: January 2017

A 59-year-old woman was seen by an ophthalmologist for blurred vision, ocular pain, headache, and nausea. She was diagnosed with acute primary angle closure (APAC) and successfully treated with medications. Using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), engorged episcleral vein was observed and small uveal effusion was diagnosed after laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI). The uveal effusion disappeared and was again diagnosed by UBM together with anterior segment inflammation with ocular pain. Iritis caused by LPI after APAC might be a cause of uveal effusion in this specific case.
Prognostic Discrepancy of the 6th and 7th UICC N Classification for Lymph Node Staging in Gastric Cancer Patients after Curative Resection
Authors: Oh Sung Jin , Suh Byoung Jo , Park Jong Kwon , Oh Sung Don , Yu Hang Jong
Published: January 2017

Background: The validity of N classification of the 7th edition of the American Joint Committee on Cancer/Union Internationale contre le Cancer (AJCC/UICC) tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging system is still under debate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic efficacy of the 7th edition of the AJCC/UICC TNM staging system (focusing on N stage), in comparison with the 6th edition, at a single Eastern institution. Methods: We analyzed 1,435 patients with gastric cancer who underwent curative resection performed from September 1998 to August 2003 at the Memorial Jin-Pok Kim Korea Gastric Cancer Center. We analyzed the survival rate of the patients according to the AJCC/UICC 6th and 7th editions, and compared each stage, focusing on N stage. Results: Significant differences in the 5-year survival rates were observed between the 6th and the 7th AJCC/UICC staging system. In the 6th edition staging system, the Kaplan-Meier curves discriminated each N stage significantly. In contrast, there was no difference in terms of survival curves for N stage according to the 7th edition, especially between N1 and N2: the Kaplan-Meier plots of survival curves between N1 (77.0%) and N2 (78.1%) stages overlapped significantly (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Although the 7th UICC staging system is a more detailed and sophisticated system in the T category, there was no prognostic significance between the pN1 and pN2 stages according to our data. Therefore, we suggest establishing a new UICC staging system taking into consideration the application of the N stage.
Experiência espiritual de um idoso em pré-operatório oncológico: relato de caso
Authors: Silva Arthur Fernandes da , Brasil Aline Quental , Freire Juliana Fontes , Oliveira Ana Carolina Duarte de , Ferreira Alberto Gorayeb de Carvalho , Lopes José Maurício Pereira , Bandeira Suziy de Matos
Published: January 2017

A atenção à dimensão espiritual é fundamental para a visão do paciente oncológico como ser integral. A avaliação espiritual pode identificar necessidades como propósito, fé e relações na vida, a serem abordadas através de diretrizes específicas. Novos estudos têm demonstrado a alta prevalência de experiências espirituais em sujeitos não portadores de transtornos psicóticos ou dissociativos, em geral em amostras clínicas e institucionalizadas. Tais alterações de consciência possuem valor pessoal e comunitário. Relato de caso: M.A.C., 88 anos, homem, viúvo e procedente de Mauriti-CE, internado em abril de 2015 em enfermaria oncológica. Na admissão, demonstrou intenso desejo de submeter-se a uma cirurgia, a despeito dos elevados riscos cardiovasculares e pós-operatórios. Inquirido sobre fontes de conforto, apontou que sua crença em Deus lhe sustentava, e relatou uma vivência espiritual ocorrida na noite anterior ao internamento: durante o sono, viu-se a sós, em seu quarto, quando o mesmo se iluminou e três figuras se apresentaram; o paciente as identificou como “Nossa Senhora acompanhada de duas crianças”, e sua presença aliviou sua ansiedade e medo em relação à cirurgia. Emocionado, relatou acreditar que a mesma o acompanharia durante o procedimento e que e aliviaria seu sofrimento. Durante sua internação o paciente demonstrou-se calmo, orientado, sem alterações de consciência, estado confusional, hiper ou hipoatividade ou sintomas positivos. Exames clínico e laboratoriais não aventaram causas psicopatológicas ou orgânicas que pudessem justificar a vivência relatada, reforçando, pois, sua visão como experiência espiritual. CONCLUSÃO: Para fornecer um cuidado integral ao paciente é preciso compreender suas experiências e objetivos e dar suporte aos seus recursos de enfrentamento. Estudos adicionais devem aprofundar intervenções para melhor acessar e assistir a essas vivências espirituais, visando aprofundar o conhecimento da sua natureza.
Persistence of Cardiac Remodeling in Preadolescents With Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Sarvari Sebastian Imre , Rodriguez-Lopez Merida , Nuñez-Garcia Marta , Sitges Marta , Sepulveda-Martinez Alvaro , Camara Oscar , Butakoff Constantine , Gratacos Eduard , Bijnens Bart , Crispi Fatima
Published: January 2017

Background—

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects 5% to 10% of newborns and is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality in adulthood. We evaluated whether prenatal cardiovascular changes previously demonstrated in FGR persist into preadolescence.

Methods and Results—

A cohort study of 58 FGR (defined as birth weight below 10th centile) and 94 normally grown fetuses identified in utero and followed-up into preadolescence (8–12 years of age) by echocardiography and 3-dimensional shape computational analysis. Compared with controls, FGR preadolescents had a different cardiac shape, with more spherical and smaller hearts. Left ventricular ejection fraction was similar among groups, whereas FGR had decreased longitudinal motion (decreased mitral annular systolic peak velocities: control median, 0.11 m/s [interquartile range, 0.09–0.12] versus FGR median 0.09 m/s [interquartile range, 0.09–0.10];
P
<0.01) and impaired relaxation (isovolumic relaxation time: control, 0.21 ms [interquartile range, 0.12–0.35] versus FGR, 0.35 ms [interquartile range, 0.20–0.46];
P
=0.04). Global longitudinal strain was decreased (control mean, −22.4% [SD, 1.37] versus FGR mean, −21.5% [SD, 1.16];
P
<0.001) compensated by an increased circumferential strain and with a higher prevalence of postsystolic shortening in FGR as compared with controls. These differences persisted after adjustment for parental ethnicity and smoking, prenatal glucocorticoid administration, preeclampsia, gestational age at delivery, days in intensive care unit, sex, age, and body surface area at evaluation.

Conclusions—

This study provides evidence that cardiac remodeling induced by FGR persists until preadolescence with findings similar to those reported in their prenatal life and childhood. The findings support the hypothesis of primary cardiac programming in FGR for explaining the association between low birth weight and cardiovascular risk in adulthood.
Efficacy and Safety of Smoking Cessation Interventions in Patients With Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Suissa Karine , Larivière Jordan , Eisenberg Mark J. , Eberg Maria , Gore Genevieve C. , Grad Roland , Joseph Lawrence , Reynier Pauline M. , Filion Kristian B.
Published: January 2017

Background—

Although the efficacy and safety of smoking cessation interventions are well established, their efficacy and safety in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) remain unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmacological and behavioral smoking cessation interventions in CVD patients via a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Methods and Results—

EMBASE, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Tobacco Addiction Specialized Register were searched for randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of smoking cessation pharmacotherapies and behavioral therapies in CVD patients. Outcomes of interest were smoking abstinence at 6 and 12 months, defined using the most rigorous criteria reported. Data were pooled across studies for direct comparisons using random-effects models. Network meta-analysis using a graph-theoretical approach was used to generate the indirect comparisons. Seven pharmacotherapy randomized controlled trials (n=2809) and 17 behavioral intervention randomized controlled trials (n=4666) met our inclusion criteria. Our network meta-analysis revealed that varenicline (relative risk [RR]: 2.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34–5.21) and bupropion (RR: 1.42; 95% CI, 1.01–2.01) were associated with greater abstinence than placebo. The evidence about nicotine replacement therapies was inconclusive (RR: 1.22; 95% CI, 0.72–2.06). Telephone therapy (RR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.15–1.88) and individual counseling (RR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.17–2.28) were both more efficacious than usual care, whereas in-hospital behavioral interventions were not (RR: 1.05; 95% CI, 0.78–1.43).

Conclusions—

Our meta-analysis suggests varenicline and bupropion, as well as individual and telephone counseling, are efficacious for smoking cessation in CVD patients.