bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Para reparo de tanta doncella”. El origen de la vida conventual femenina en Tunja (1571-1636)
Authors: Molinaa Sofía Brizuela
Published: January 2019

El artículo trata sobre el origen de la vida conventual femenina en Tunja, en el Nuevo Reino de Granada. Se analizará el interés de sus fundadores por conseguir la “perpetuidad” del mismo, tanto desde la perspectiva religiosa como económica.El convento se destinó para las hijas y nietas de conquistadores y pobladores, y por su condición de precursor pudo obtener una serie de ventajas para consolidarse como institución en la naciente sociedad americana. El objetivo fundamental de este ensayo es analizar cómo una institución religiosa reproduce las formas de vida del conjunto social al que pertenece.
El problema del sentido en el diálogo entre ciencia y religión
Authors: Gómez Carlos Miguel
Published: January 2019

Este trabajo explora críticamente la tesis según la cual la diferencia central entre ciencia y religión consiste en que, mientras que aquella busca explicar el orden causal del mundo, esta se ocupa de dar sentido a la totalidad de lo que existe y a las experiencias y acciones individuales. En la primera parte se muestra que explicar y dar sentido son empresas solidarias que no pueden separarse fácilmente ni en la ciencia ni en la religión. Así mismo, la cuestión central del diálogo entre ambos dominios se ubica en la pregunta por el origen del sentido. La segunda parte critica el presupuesto de las teorías socioconstruccionistas, según el cual todo sentido es enteramente un producto humano. Finalmente, se señalan algunos aspectos sobre los cuales las ciencias y el cristianismo pueden dialogar acerca de la existencia de un sentido trascendente en la naturaleza y la vida humana.
A Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis Shows that Arylacetamide Deacetylase (AADAC) Gene Polymorphism and HIV Infection Affect the Exposure of Rifapentine
Authors: Francis Jose , Zvada Simbarashe P. , Denti Paolo , Hatherill Mark , Charalambous Salome , Mungofa Stanley , Dawson Rodney , Dorman Susan , Gupte Nikhil , Wiesner Lubbe , Jindani Amina , Harrison Thomas S. , Olagunju Adeniyi , Egan Deirdre , Owen Andrew , McIlleron Helen M.
Published: January 2019

Rifapentine is a rifamycin used to treat tuberculosis. As is the case for rifampin, plasma exposures of rifapentine are associated with the treatment response.
Pharmacokinetic-Pharmacodynamic Assessment of the Hepatic and Bone Marrow Toxicities of the New Trypanoside Fexinidazole
Authors: Watson James A. , Strub-Wourgraft Nathalie , Tarral Antoine , Ribeiro Isabela , Tarning Joel , White Nicholas J.
Published: January 2019

Fexinidazole is a novel oral treatment for human African trypanosomiasis caused by
Trypanosoma brucei gambiense
(
g
-HAT). Fexinidazole also has activity against
T. cruzi
, the causative agent of Chagas disease.
Impact of Homologous Recombination on the Evolution of Prokaryotic Core Genomes
Authors: González-Torres Pedro , Rodríguez-Mateos Francisco , Antón Josefa , Gabaldón Toni
Published: January 2019

Microbial populations exchange genetic material through a process called homologous recombination. Although this process has been studied in particular organisms, we lack an understanding of its differential impact over the genome and across microbes with different life-styles. We used a common analytical framework to assess this process in a representative set of microorganisms. Our results uncovered important trends. First, microbes with different lifestyles are differentially impacted, with endosymbionts and obligate pathogens being those less prone to undergo this process. Second, certain genetic elements such as restriction-modification systems seem to be associated with higher rates of recombination. Most importantly, recombined genomes show the footprints of natural selection in which recombined regions preferentially contain genes that can be related to specific ecological adaptations. Taken together, our results clarify the relative contributions of factors modulating homologous recombination and show evidence for a clear a role of this process in shaping microbial genomes and driving ecological adaptations.
Effects of Friend Virus Infection and Regulatory T Cells on the Antigen Presentation Function of B Cells
Authors: Moore Tyler C. , Messer Ronald J. , Gonzaga Lorena M. , Mather Jennifer M. , Carmody Aaron B. , Bayer Wibke , Littwitz-Salomon Elisabeth , Dittmer Ulf , Hasenkrug Kim J.
Published: January 2019

The primary role of B cells in immunity is considered the production of pathogen-specific antibodies, but another, less-well-studied, function of B cells is to present foreign antigens to T cells to stimulate their activation and proliferation. Dendritic cells (DCs) are considered the most important antigen-presenting cells (APCs) for CD8+T cells, but DCs lose APC function when infected with Friend virus (FV), a model retrovirus of mice. Interestingly, B cells were better able to stimulate CD8+T cell responses when they were infected with FV. We also found that the activation status of B cells under homeostatic conditions was potently modulated by regulatory T cells. This study illustrates an important link between B cell and T cell responses and illustrates an additional mechanism by which regulatory T cells suppress critical T cell responses during viral infections.
Role for a Filamentous Nuclear Assembly of IFI16, DNA, and Host Factors in Restriction of Herpesviral Infection
Authors: Merkl Philipp E. , Knipe David M.
Published: January 2019

Mammalian cells exhibit numerous strategies to recognize and contain viral infections. The best-characterized antiviral responses are those that are induced within the cytosol by receptors that activate interferon responses or shut down translation. Antiviral responses also occur in the nucleus, yet these intranuclear innate immune responses are poorly defined at the receptor-proximal level. In this study, we explored the ability of cells to restrict infection by assembling viral DNA into transcriptionally silent heterochromatin within the nucleus. We found that the IFI16 restriction factor forms filaments on DNA within infected cells. These filaments recruit antiviral restriction factors to prevent viral replication in various cell types. Mechanistically, IFI16 filaments inhibit the recruitment of RNA polymerase II to viral genes. We propose that IFI16 filaments with associated restriction factors constitute a “restrictosome” structure that can signal to other parts of the nucleus where foreign DNA is located that it should be silenced.
Identification of an Important Orphan Histidine Kinase for the Initiation of Sporulation and Enterotoxin Production by
Clostridium perfringens
Type F Strain SM101
Authors: Freedman John C. , Li Jihong , Mi Eric , McClane Bruce A.
Published: January 2019

Clostridium perfringens
type F enteric diseases, which include a very common form of food poisoning and many cases of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, develop when type F strains sporulate and produce
C. perfringens
enterotoxin (CPE) in the intestines. Spores are also important for transmission of type F disease. Despite the importance of sporulation for type F disease and the evidence that
C. perfringens
sporulation begins with phosphorylation of the Spo0A transcriptional regulator, the kinase phosphorylating Spo0A to initiate sporulation and CPE production had not been ascertained. In response, the current report now provides identification of an orphan histidine kinase named CPR0195 that can directly phosphorylate Spo0A. Results using a CPR0195 null mutant indicate that this kinase is very important for initiating
C. perfringens
sporulation and CPE production. Therefore, the CPR0195 kinase represents a potential target to block type F disease by interfering with intestinal
C. perfringens
sporulation and CPE production.
Managing psychotic depression and diagnostic uncertainty in liaison psychiatry
Authors: Davies Joanne E , Johnson Sarah
Published: January 2019

A middle-aged woman presented with a history of symptoms of depression with psychotic features severely affecting her physical health. Neuroimaging of her brain suggested pathological changes out of keeping with her age, leading to further investigations including genetic testing for cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL). Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis was also considered as a differential diagnosis as an initial serum test for anti-NMDAR autoantibodies was positive. Her symptoms resolved following treatment with electroconvulsive therapy. Despite her initial neuroimaging, her genetic test for CADASIL was negative and her subsequent test for anti-NMDAR autoantibodies was negative, suggesting that the initial test may have been a false positive.
Advance care planning for the severely ill in the hospital: a randomized trial
Authors: Krones Tanja , Budilivschi Ana , Karzig Isabelle , Otto Theodore , Valeri Fabio , Biller-Andorno Nikola , Mitchell Christine , Loupatatzis Barbara
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To investigate the impact of advance care planning (ACP) including decision aids for severely ill medical inpatients.

Methods

Single-centre randomised controlled trial at a Swiss university hospital. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive an extra consultation with the hospital social service or a consultation with in-house facilitators trained according to an internationally established ACP programme. Trial participants with the exception of the observers were fully blinded. 115 competent severely ill adults, their surrogates and their attending physicians were enrolled and followed for 6 months after discharge or 3 months after death. The patient’s wishes regarding resuscitation (primary outcome), last place of care and other end-of-life wishes were recorded. Knowledge and respect of the patient’s wishes by the surrogates and attending physician were monitored.

Results

Compared with controls, 6 months after the intervention, fewer patients wished to be resuscitated or were undecided (p=0.01), resuscitation wishes were documented more frequently (89% vs 64%, p=0.02) and surrogates and/or attending physicians had greater knowledge of the patient’s wishes (62% vs 30%, p=0.01). Groups were not different with regard to wishes being fulfilled, with the exception of last place of care being achieved more frequently in the intervention group (29% vs 11 %, p=0.05).

Conclusion

ACP including decision aids offered to severely ill medical inpatients leads to greater knowledge, documentation and respect of treatment and end-of-life wishes. Introducing ACP to these patients however may be too late for many patients. Early integration of ACP during the illness trajectory and a broader regional approach may be more appropriate.
Contraceptive use among migrant, second-generation migrant and non-migrant women seeking abortion care: a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in Sweden
Authors: Emtell Iwarsson Karin , Larsson Elin C , Gemzell-Danielsson Kristina , Essén Birgitta , Klingberg-Allvin Marie
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The objective of this study was to compare ever-in life contraception use, use of contraception at current conception, and planned use of contraception after an induced abortion, among three groups of women: migrants, second-generation migrants and non-migrant women, and to compare the types of contraception methods used and intended for future use among the three groups of women.

Methods

The cross-sectional study administered a questionnaire face-to-face to women aged 18 years and older who were seeking abortion care at one of six abortion clinics in Stockholm County from January to April 2015.

Results

The analysis included 637 women. Migrants and second-generation migrants were less likely to have used contraception historically, at the time of the current conception, and to plan to use contraception after their induced abortion compared with non-migrant women. Historically, non-migrants had used pills (89%) and withdrawal (24%) while migrants had used the copper intrauterine device (24%) to a higher extent compared to the other two groups of women. Both the migrants (65%) and second-generation migrants (61%) were more likely than the non-migrants (48%) to be planning to use long-acting reversible contraception.

Conclusions

Lower proportions of contraception use were found in migrants and second-generation migrants than in non-migrants. In addition, there were significant differences in the types of contraception methods used historically and intended for future use.
What is the evidence for the use of simulation training to teach communication skills in psychiatry?
Authors: Neale Josephine
Published: January 2019

Training in communication skills is a vital part of medical education worldwide and essential for psychiatrists, with poor communication often cited as a key contributing factor in healthcare complaints. Simulation training is a rapidly developing educational modality, and educationalists need to be aware of its possible uses and pitfalls in teaching communications skills in psychiatry. By exploring the advantages and disadvantages of the use of simulation training as a method of teaching communication skills in psychiatry, this article demonstrates a clear consensus in the literature that, while there are a number of difficulties to be overcome in simulation training, these are outweighed by the clear educational gains. In areas where resources are limited, there are suitable variations of simulation training which can be employed. Simulation training can facilitate teaching clinical and non-clinical skills simultaneously, and the use of simulation in mental health is an ideal method for addressing gaps in knowledge and skills relating to communication with patients, which could directly translate to an improvement in patient care.
Internal morality of medicine and physician autonomy
Authors: McAndrew Stephen
Published: January 2019

Robert Veatch and others have questioned whether there are internal moral rules of medicine. This paper examines the legal regulatory model for governing professions as the autonomous exercise of professional skills and asks whether there is a theoretical basis for this model. Taking John Rawls’s distinction between the justification of a practice and justification of the rules internal to the practice, this paper argues that the autonomous exercise of professional skills is justified so long as it benefits society. In opposition to Christopher Boorse, it is argued that medicine is pathocentric and that physicians exercise skills in treating pathologies. The autonomous treatment of pathologies is justified because non-interference with physicians will lead to greater treatment of pathologies and so benefit society. Finally, the analysis of medicine as the autonomous exercise of skills in treating pathologies yields the rule that physicians not be forced to cause pathologies.
Multiparametric ultrasound in liver diseases: an overview for the practising clinician
Authors: Grgurevic Ivica , Tjesic Drinkovic Ida , Pinzani Massimo
Published: January 2019

Ultrasound (US) is usually the first and most commonly used tool in the diagnostic algorithm for liver disease. It is widely available, non-invasive and offers a real-time assessment of the liver in several anatomic planes, using different US modalities such as greyscale imaging, Doppler, elastography and contrast-enhanced US. This multiparametric ultrasound (MPUS) provides more information of the examined structures and allows for a faster and more accurate diagnosis, usually at the point of care, thus reducing the requirement for some invasive and more expensive methods. Current data on the MPUS in hepatology are summarised in this review, mostly focused on its use for non-invasive staging of liver fibrosis, detection and classification of portal hypertension and oesophageal varices, prognosis in chronic liver diseases and characterisation of focal liver lesions (FLLs). Based on the available data, we propose practical algorithms for clinical use of MPUS in chronic liver disease and FLL.
Impact of enhanced recovery after surgery on postoperative recovery after joint arthroplasty: results from a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Qi-Feng , Gu Hui-Yun , Peng Wu-ya , Zhang Qiong , Huang Zheng-Dong , Zhang Chao , Yu Yun-Xiang
Published: January 2019

Study design

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Objectives

To evaluate the effects of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) on the postoperative recovery of patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane and ISI Web of Science databases were searched to identify literature including randomised controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies and case–control studies through 2 May 2018. The analysed outcomes were mortality rate, transfusion rate, range of motion (ROM), 30-day readmission rate, postoperative complication rate and in-hospital length of stay (LOS).

Results

A total of 25 studies involving 16 699 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with conventional care, ERAS was associated with a significant decrease in mortality rate (relative risk (RR) 0.48, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.85), transfusion rate (RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.51), complication rate (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.87) and LOS (mean difference (MD) −2.03, 95% CI −2.64 to −1.42) among all included trials. However, no significant difference was found in ROM (MD 7.53, 95% CI −2.16 to 17.23) and 30-day readmission rate (RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.30). There was no significant difference in complications of TKA (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.34 to 2.06) and transfusion rate in RCTs (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.15 to 2.88) between the ERAS group and the control group.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis showed that ERAS significantly reduced the mortality rate, transfusion rate, incidence of complications and LOS of patients undergoing TKA or THA. However, ERAS did not show a significant impact on ROM and 30-day readmission rate. Complications after hip replacement are less than those of knee replacement, and the young patients recover better.

Level of evidence

Level 1.
Evaluation of peak side resistance for rock socketed shafts in weak sedimentary rock from an extensive database of published field load tests: a limit state approach
Authors: Asem Pouyan , Gardoni Paolo
Published: January 2019

This paper presents analyses of the measured peak side resistance of rock sockets constructed in weak claystone, shale, limestone, siltstone, and sandstone. The peak side resistance is obtained from in situ axial load tests on drilled shafts, anchors, and plugs. The parameters that affect the development of peak side resistance are determined using in situ load test data. It is found that peak side resistance increases with the unconfined compressive strength and deformation modulus of the weak rock, and decreases with the increase in length of the shear surface along the rock socket sidewalls. The increase in socket diameter also slightly decreases the peak side resistance. Additionally, it is found that the initial normal stresses do not significantly affect the measured peak side resistance in the in situ load tests. The in situ load test data are used to develop an empirical design equation for determination of the peak side resistance. The proposed model for peak side resistance and the reliability analysis are used to determine the corresponding resistance factors for use in the load and resistance factor design framework for assessment of the strength limit state.
Nd isotope mapping of the Grenvillian Allochthon Boundary Thrust in Algonquin Park, Ontario
Authors: Dickin A.P. , Strong J.W.D.
Published: January 2019

Over 50 new Nd isotope analyses are presented for high-grade orthogneisses from Algonquin Park and surrounding region to map major Grenvillian thrust boundaries. Nd model ages display a consistent geographical pattern that allows detailed mapping of the boundary between the Algonquin and Muskoka domains, here interpreted as the local trajectory of the Ottawan-age Allochthon Boundary Thrust (ABT). The ABT is underlain by a domain with Paleoproterozoic Nd model ages, interpreted as a tectonic duplex entrained onto the base of the main allochthon. The boundaries determined using Nd isotope mapping are consistent with field mapping and with remotely sensed aeromagnetic and digital elevation data. The precise location of the ABT can be observed in a road-cut on Highway 60, on the north shore of Lake of Two Rivers in the centre of Algonquin Park.
Financial valuation and the optimal rotation of a fully regulated forest
Authors: Kuusela Olli-Pekka , Lintunen Jussi
Published: January 2019

This paper demonstrates a new approach to identifying and characterizing the optimal number of age classes in a fully regulated (i.e., normal) forest. We introduce an equilibrium condition for the normal forest requiring that it is financially justified to maintain the steady income forest configuration. We apply two valuation approaches to derive the main conclusion that the Faustmann rotation is the optimal harvest age of a normal forest. Both approaches utilize the standard Fisherian method of asset valuation. The first valuation approach imposes a steady income stream requirement, whereas the second approach is free of such a requirement. The second approach can be interpreted as enforcing market discipline on the normal forest configurations in a competitive equilibrium and picking the only normal forest that can be sustained in competitive equilibrium, namely, the forest with the number of age classes corresponding to the Faustmann rotation age. Our results also highlight an alternative way of deriving and interpreting the so-called zero-profit condition that can be applied to determining the optimal number of age classes in a regulated forest.
The metric dimension of the enhanced power graph of a finite group
Authors: Ma Xuanlong , She Yanhong
Published: January 2019

The enhanced power graph of a finite group [Formula: see text] is the graph whose vertex set is [Formula: see text], and two distinct vertices are adjacent if they generate a cyclic subgroup of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we establish an explicit formula for the metric dimension of an enhanced power graph. As an application, we compute the metric dimension of the enhanced power graph of an elementary abelian [Formula: see text]-group, a dihedral group and a generalized quaternion group.
ALLIANCE EXPERIENCE, INDUSTRY CONDITIONS, AND EXTERNAL TECHNOLOGY COMMERCIALISATION
Authors: DUTTA DEV K. , ROUSSEAU MARY BETH
Published: January 2019

External technology commercialization (ETC) is one strategy firms use in order to appropriate value from innovation. In view of the complexities associated with managing partner relationships, firms are likely to draw on their prior alliance experience when considering ETC strategies. Applying an organisational capabilities perspective, we investigate the extent to which prior alliance experience shapes a firm’s propensity to engage in external commercialisation. Because the motivations and risks of ETC vary across industries, we further consider how industry effects may influence this relationship. Our study examines the ETC initiatives of 1,642 firms in the US manufacturing sector between 1990 and 2006. The results suggest a curvilinear relationship between alliance experience and ETC. We also find that this relationship is moderated by the nature of the industry appropriability regime, rate of technological change, and competitive intensity.
The Challenge of Big Data and Data Science
Authors: Brady Henry E.
Published: January 2019

Big data and data science are transforming the world in ways that spawn new concerns for social scientists, such as the impacts of the internet on citizens and the media, the repercussions of smart cities, the possibilities of cyber-warfare and cyber-terrorism, the implications of precision medicine, and the consequences of artificial intelligence and automation. Along with these changes in society, powerful new data science methods support research using administrative, internet, textual, and sensor-audio-video data. Burgeoning data and innovative methods facilitate answering previously hard-to-tackle questions about society by offering new ways to form concepts from data, to do descriptive inference, to make causal inferences, and to generate predictions. They also pose challenges as social scientists must grasp the meaning of concepts and predictions generated by convoluted algorithms, weigh the relative value of prediction versus causal inference, and cope with ethical challenges as their methods, such as algorithms for mobilizing voters or determining bail, are adopted by policy makers.
Making Health Research Matter: A Call to Increase Attention to External Validity
Authors: Huebschmann Amy G. , Leavitt Ian M. , Glasgow Russell E.
Published: January 2019

Most of the clinical research conducted with the goal of improving health is not generalizable to nonresearch settings. In addition, scientists often fail to replicate each other's findings due, in part, to lack of attention to contextual factors accounting for their relative effectiveness or failure. To address these problems, we review the literature on assessment of external validity and summarize approaches to designing for generalizability. When investigators conduct systematic reviews, a critical need is often unmet: to evaluate the pragmatism and context of interventions, as well as their effectiveness. Researchers, editors, and grant reviewers can implement key changes in how they consider and report on external validity issues. For example, the recently published expanded CONSORT figure may aid scientists and potential program adopters in summarizing participation in and representativeness of a program across different settings, staff, and patients. Greater attention to external validity is needed to increase reporting transparency, improve program dissemination, and reduce failures to replicate research.
Research on Pressurizer Pressure Control Based on Adaptive Prediction Algorithm
Authors: Qian Hong , Yuan Yuan , Wang Yu , Jiang Gaofeng , Yang Ting
Published: January 2019

According to the high control quality requirements of nuclear power plants and the features of the pressurizer pressure with large inertia, time‐varying, nonlinear, multi‐interference, difficulty in obtaining accurate mathematical model, and open‐loop unstable dynamic characteristic, the advanced control strategy is needed for pressurizer pressure control performance optimization. To tackle the problem, an adaptive predictive control method for pressurizer pressure is devised in this paper. Firstly, the non‐self‐regulating system is stabilized and the adaptive dynamic matrix controller is designed by identifying the controlled object online. In order to realize the engineering application for this controller, then the control signal output is obtained. Finally, the control system simulation platform is built. Simulation results reveal a superior control performance, disturbance rejection, and adaptability. Furthermore, it provides a solution for the application of dynamic matrix control algorithm in non‐self‐regulating system.
Relapse after Prolonged Remission in Philadelphia-Like Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Shah Gaurav , Mikhail Fady M. , Carroll Andrew J. , Kutny Matthew , Papadantonakis Nikolaos
Published: January 2019

We describe a case of late relapse of Philadelphia-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The patient relapsed several years from diagnosis and responded to second salvage treatment. The case highlights the open questions regarding management of Philadelphia-like acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Human Embryonic Stem Cells Acquire Responsiveness to TRAIL upon Exposure to Cisplatin
Authors: Pešková Lucie , Vinarský Vladimír , Bárta Tomáš , Hampl Aleš
Published: January 2019

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand—TRAIL—is a protein operating as a ligand capable of inducing apoptosis particularly in cancerously transformed cells, while normal healthy cells are typically nonresponsive. We have previously demonstrated that pluripotent human embryonic stem cells (hESC) are also refractory to TRAIL, even though they express all canonical components of the death receptor-induced apoptosis pathway. In this study, we have examined a capacity of DNA damage to provoke sensitivity of hESC to TRAIL. The extent of DNA damage, behavior of molecules involved in apoptosis, and response of hESC to TRAIL were investigated. The exposure of hESC to 1 μM and 2 μM concentrations of cisplatin have led to the formation of 53BP1 and γH2AX foci, indicating the presence of double-strand breaks in DNA, without affecting the expression of proteins contributing to mitochondrial membrane integrity. Interestingly, cisplatin upregulated critical components of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway—initiator caspase 8, effector caspase 3, and the cell death receptors. The observed increase of expression of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway components was sufficient to sensitize hESC to TRAIL-induced apoptosis; immense cell dying accompanied by enhanced PARP cleavage, processing of caspase 8, and full activation of caspase 3 were all observed after the treatment combining cisplatin and TRAIL. Finally, we have demonstrated the central role of caspase 8 in this process, since its downregulation abrogated the sensitizing effect of cisplatin.
Dravet Syndrome in Lebanon: First Report on Cases with SCN1A Mutations
Authors: Alame Saada , El-Houwayek Eliane , Nava Caroline , Sabbagh Sandra , Fawaz Ali , Gillart Anne-Celine , Hasbini Dana , Depienne Christel , Mégarbané André
Published: January 2019

Dravet syndrome, also known as severe myoclonic epilepsy in infancy, is a rare disease characterized by the appearance of different types of seizures in a healthy baby, triggered by various factors and stressful events. We report 8 Lebanese cases referred for molecular analysis of the SCN1A gene. Results were positive in 7 cases and revealed de novo variants at the heterozygous state in different exons of the gene for all except one, where the variant was intronic. Four variants were novel. Confirmation of Dravet syndrome is important for a better follow-up and treatment, preventing the occurrence of status epilepticus and severe neurological deterioration.
Increased Subfoveal Choroidal Thickness and Retinal Structure Changes on Optical Coherence Tomography in Pediatric Alport Syndrome Patients
Authors: Adıyeke Seda Karaca , Ture Gamze , Mutlubaş Fatma , Aytoğan Hasan , Vural Onur , Uzakgider Neslisah Kutlu , Dayangaç Gulsah Talay , Talay Ekrem
Published: January 2019

Objective. To evaluate optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings of pediatric Alport syndrome (AS) patients with no retinal pathology on fundus examination. Materials and Methods. Twenty-one patients being followed up with the diagnosis of AS (Group 1) and 24 age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers (Group 2) were prospectively evaluated. All participants underwent standard ophthalmologic examination, retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) analysis, and horizontal and vertical scan macula enhanced depth imaging OCT (EDI-OCT). Statistical analysis of the data obtained in this study was performed with SPSS 15.0. Results. Macula thickness was significantly decreased in the temporal quadrant in Group 1 compared to those of the control group (p=0.013). RNFL measurements revealed statistically significant thinning in the temporal, superior, inferotemporal, and inferonasal quadrants and in average thicknesses in cases with AS compared to the controls (p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.022, p=0.016, p<0.001, respectively). The mean subfoveal coronial thickness (SCT) was 362.2 ± 77.8 μm in Group 1 and 256,18 ± 71.7 μm in Group 2. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of mean CT (p<0.001). Conclusion. OCT provides valuable information in identifying the structural changes and evaluation of ocular findings in patients with AS. Even if no pathological retinal findings were found in the clinical examination, structural changes in the OCT examination begin in early period of AS.
The Value of Pepsinogen in GC Screening: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Ling , Lang Junjie , Jin Yuelong , Chen Yan , Chang Weiwei , Yao Yingshui , Yu Jiegen
Published: January 2019

Background. The current gold standard for gastric cancer (GC) screening is pathology or a barium meal followed by X-ray. This is not applicable to a wide range of screening capabilities due to the lack of operability. This article used a meta-analysis to evaluate the value of pepsinogen (PG) screening for GC.Methods. PubMed, EMbase, the Cochrane Library, CNKI, WanFang, VIP, and CBM databases were systematically searched for published studies that used serum PG to diagnose GC. Articles were searched from January 2003 to January 2018. Two reviewers independently screened the literature according to specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data were extracted and evaluated, and the quality of the methodologies evaluated using the QUADAS entry. The meta-analysis (MA) was performed using Meta-DiSc 1.4 software. Stata 12.0 software was used to assess publication bias.Results. A total of 19 studies were finally included from a total of 169,009 cases. The MA showed a combined sensitivity and specificity of 0.56 (95% CI (0.53–0.59),P<0.01) and 0.71 (95% CI (0.70-0.71),P<0.01), respectively. The combined likelihood ratios were +LR = 2.82 (95% CI (2.06–3.86),P<0.01) and −LR = 0.56 (95% CI (0.45–0.68),P<0.01). The combined DOR was 5.41 (95% CI (3.64~ 8.06),P<0.01), and the area under the SROC curve was 0.7468.Conclusions. Serum PG provides medium levels of sensitivity and specificity for GC assessment. To be used in a clinical setting, further high-quality research must be performed and verified.
Relationship between the Degrees of Itch and Serum Lipocalin-2 Levels in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Aizawa Norie , Ishiuji Yozo , Tominaga Mitsutoshi , Sakata Sanae , Takahashi Nobuaki , Yanaba Koichi , Umezawa Yoshinori , Asahina Akihiko , Kimura Utako , Suga Yasushi , Takamori Kenji , Nakagawa Hidemi
Published: January 2019

Background. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2), a protein secreted mainly by activated neutrophils, has been associated with neurodegeneration, obesity, and inflammatory responses. Serum LCN2 concentration has been reported elevated in patients with psoriasis, but lower in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). Spinal astrocyte-derived LCN2 was found to be involved in enhancement of itch in a mouse model of AD. However, the relationship between LCN2 and itch in patients with psoriasis has not been determined. Objective. This study examined the correlation between serum LCN2 levels and the degrees of itch in patients with psoriasis.Methods. Serum LCN2 concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) in patients with psoriasis and AD and in healthy controls. The degree of itch was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS), and disease severity was determined by measuring psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) and scoring atopic dermatitis (SCORAD). Correlations among serum LCN2 level, VAS, PASI, and SCORAD were analyzed statistically. We further examined the serum LCN levels in psoriasis patients before and after biological treatment.Results. Serum LCN2 concentrations were significantly higher in patients with psoriasis and AD than those in healthy controls. In patients with psoriasis, serum LCN2 concentrations were significantly correlated with VAS, but not with PASI. In contrast, serum LCN2 concentrations did not correlate with VAS or SCORAD in patients with AD. Serum LCN2 levels in psoriasis patients significantly decreased after the biological treatment along with improvement of VAS.Conclusion. Serum LCN2 concentration is associated with the degree of itch in patients with psoriasis, suggesting that serum LCN2 may be a useful clinical marker for itch in psoriasis.
Pollution Abatement of Heavy Metals in Different Conditions by Water Kefir Grains as a Protective Tool against Toxicity
Authors: Volpi Giorgio , Ginepro Marco , Tafur-Marinos Janeth , Zelano Vincenzo
Published: January 2019

This research paper addresses the hypothesis that Water Kefir grains can be used as absorbers of metal ions and reports the first application of the Water Kefir grains as a protective tool against toxicity by heavy metal ions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the concentration of heavy metal ions in several Water Kefir solutions during the fermentation process under various conditions. Two colonies of Water Kefir grain were used, and the concentrations of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Ba, and Ca were measured in Water Kefir grain solutions at different contact times (0, 24, 48, and 72 hours), different pH values in citric and acetic buffers, and different Water Kefir grains/metal solution ratios, with and without sucrose (5%). Optical emission spectroscopy was used to measure the concentrations of metal ions. Among the tested experimental conditions, the best combination for pollution abatement is sucrose (5%), contact time 24 hours, starting pH = 4.5, acetate buffer, and Kefir grains/metal solution ratio 1 : 1. In these conditions, the heavy metal abatement by Water Kefir grains is particularly effective for Cr and Pb (70%) and good for Cu, Ni, and Mn (50%).
Theoretical Analysis of an Imprecise Prey-Predator Model with Harvesting and Optimal Control
Authors: Das Anjana , Pal M.
Published: January 2019

In our present paper, we formulate and study a prey-predator system with imprecise values for the parameters. We also consider harvesting for both the prey and predator species. Then we describe the complex dynamics of the proposed model system including positivity and uniform boundedness of the system, and existence and stability criteria of various equilibrium points. Also the existence of bionomic equilibrium and optimal harvesting policy are thoroughly investigated. Some numerical simulations have been presented in support of theoretical works. Further the requirement of considering imprecise values for the set of model parameters is also highlighted.
Influences of Corydalis decumbens on the Activities of CYP450 Enzymes in Rats with a Cocktail Approach
Authors: Cheng Chen , Qian Jianchang , Wang Zhe , Li Wanshu , Huang Chengke , Chen Mengchun , Dong Yaoyao , Lian Lejing , Sun Wei
Published: January 2019

Corydalis decumbens, a Traditional Chinese Medicine, has been widely used for the alternative and/or complementary therapy of hypertension, arrhythmias rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica, stroke, hemiplegia, paraplegia, and vascular embolism. The aim of this study was to determinate the potential effects of Corydalis decumbens on the five cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme activities (CYP1A2, CYP3A4, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP2D6) by cocktail approach. To evaluate whether concurrent use of Corydalis decumbens interferes with the effect of several prescription drugs, saline (control group) or Corydalis decumbens (XTW group) were administrated via gavage for 7 successive days. A probe cocktail solution (phenacetin, omeprazole, metoprolol, tolbutamide, and midazolam) was given 24 h after the last dose of saline or Corydalis decumbens. A specific and sensitive UHPLC–MS/MS method was validated for the determination of five substrates and their metabolites in control group and XTW group. Our results indicated that Corydalis decumbens could have inductive effects of CYP2C19 and inhibit the activities of CYP1A2 and CYP3A4. However, Corydalis decumbens had no significant influence on CYP2C9 and CYP2D6. The herb-drug interaction should require more attention by careful monitoring and appropriate drug dosing adjustments to the concurrent use of western medications which were metabolized by CYP1A2, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 in human—Corydalis decumbens, Cytochrome P450, Cocktail, Pharmacokinetics, herb–drug interactions.
Intended Pregnancy as a Predictor of Good Knowledge on Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness: the Case of Northern Ethiopia Pregnant Mothers
Authors: Tsegaw Haile Zewdu , Cherkos Endeshaw Admassu , Badi Marta Berta , Mihret Muhabaw Shumye
Published: January 2019

Background. Maternal mortality remains unacceptably high in developing countries. One key strategy to reduce such mortality is utilization of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR) and creating awareness of BP/CR is an important step for pregnant women, their families, and the community. However, there was limited to no evidence regarding the community’s awareness on BP/CR in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess knowledge on BP/CR and associated factors among pregnant women in Debremarkos town, Northwest Ethiopia, 2017. Methods. A Community based cross-sectional study was conducted from July 1 to 30/2017. A total of 441 pregnant women were included in the study. Structured and pretested questionnaire was administered through face to face interview to collect the data. Simple random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. The data were entered in to Epinfo version 7.0 and then exported to SPSS version 20.0 for analysis. Both bivariate and multivariable logistic regression model were fitted. Crude and adjusted odds ratio with 95 % confidence interval have been computed and variables with p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significance. Results. The proportion of pregnant women having good knowledge on birth preparedness and complication readiness was found to be 45.2 with 95%CI (40.4, 50.0). In the multivariable analysis, having history of childbirth (AOR=2.17;95%CI:1.18,4.00), having intended pregnancy (AOR=2.13;95%CI: 1.16, 3.90), being governmental employee ( AOR=6.50; 95%CI: 2.50, 16.87), and having Antenatal care visits (AOR=5.50; 95%CI:2.2,13.70) were factors which were independently and significantly associated with good knowledge on birth preparedness and complication readiness. Conclusion. Proportion of pregnant women having good knowledge on birth preparedness and complication readiness was low. Putting emphasis on intended pregnancy and antenatal care visit was recommended.
Activated Eosinophils Exert Antitumorigenic Activities in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Reichman Hadar , Itan Michal , Rozenberg Perri , Yarmolovski Tal , Brazowski Eli , Varol Chen , Gluck Nathan , Shapira Shiran , Arber Nadir , Qimron Udi , Karo-Atar Danielle , Lee James J. , Munitz Ariel
Published: January 2019

Immunotherapies targeting T lymphocytes are revolutionizing cancer therapy but only benefit a subset of patients, especially in colorectal cancer. Thus, additional insight into the tumor microenvironment (TME) is required. Eosinophils are bone marrow–derived cells that have been largely studied in the context of allergic diseases and parasite infections. Although tumor-associated eosinophilia has been described in various solid tumors including colorectal cancer, knowledge is still missing regarding eosinophil activities and even the basic question of whether the TME promotes eosinophil recruitment without additional manipulation (e.g., immunotherapy) is unclear. Herein, we report that eosinophils are recruited into developing tumors during induction of inflammation-induced colorectal cancer and in mice with the Apcmin/+ genotype, which develop spontaneous intestinal adenomas. Using adoptive transfer and cytokine neutralization experiments, we demonstrate that the TME supported prolonged eosinophil survival independent of IL5, an eosinophil survival cytokine. Tumor-infiltrating eosinophils consisted of degranulating eosinophils and were essential for tumor rejection independently of CD8+ T cells. Transcriptome and proteomic analysis revealed an IFNγ-linked signature for intratumoral eosinophils that was different from that of macrophages. Our data establish antitumorigenic roles for eosinophils in colorectal cancer. These findings may facilitate the development of pharmacologic treatments that could unleash antitumor responses by eosinophils, especially in colorectal cancer patients displaying eosinophilia.
Preliminary Validation of the Interpersonal Dysphoria Model of Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: D'Agostino Alessandra , Aportone Antonella , Petrini Marica , Manganelli Enrica , Rossi Monti Mario , Starcevic Vladan
Published: January 2019

Background: Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is one of the most puzzling psychiatric disorders. In order to improve its understanding and management, we have recently proposed an interpersonal dysphoria model that emphasizes the key role of the complex emotional state of dysphoria in BPD. The purpose of this study was to test the interpersonal dysphoria model using a structural equation modeling analysis. Sampling and Methods: The sample consisted of 105 patients with BPD and 105 healthy controls. A total of five self-report instruments and three semistructured interviews were administered to the participants. Results: The best-fitting structural model fit the data well in the BPD sample. Background dysphoria and negative interpersonal disposition were significant predictors of situational dysphoria, which in turn was a significant predictor of various symptoms of BPD. This model differs from the originally proposed one in terms of impaired empathy not being a component of negative interpersonal disposition and organizing and disorganizing BPD symptoms being replaced by interpersonal (abandonment fears, angry outbursts, and stormy relations) and affective (affective shifts and emptiness) symptoms. Conclusions: Although some revision was needed, the findings provide support to the proposed model, which needs to be further tested in a larger sample of individuals with BPD.
Reducing Dietary Sodium to 1000 mg per Day Reduces Neurovascular Transduction Without Stimulating Sympathetic Outflow
Authors: Babcock Matthew C. , Robinson Austin T. , Migdal Kamila U. , Watso Joseph C. , Wenner Megan M. , Stocker Sean D. , Farquhar William B.
Published: January 2019

The American Heart Association recommends no more than 1500 mg of sodium/day as ideal. Some cohort studies suggest low-sodium intake is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality. Extremely low-sodium diets (≤500 mg/d) elicit activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and stimulate sympathetic outflow. The effects of an American Heart Association–recommended diet on sympathetic regulation of the vasculature are unclear. Therefore, we assessed whether a 1000 mg/d diet alters sympathetic outflow and sympathetic vascular transduction compared with the more commonly recommended 2300 mg/d. We hypothesized that sodium reduction from 2300 to 1000 mg/d would not affect resting sympathetic outflow but would reduce sympathetic transduction in healthy young adults. Seventeen participants (age: 26±2 years, 9F/8M) completed 10-day 2300 and 1000 mg/d sodium diets in this randomized controlled feeding study (crossover). We measured resting renin activity, angiotensin II, aldosterone, blood pressure, muscle sympathetic nerve activity, and norepinephrine. We quantified beat-by-beat changes in mean arterial pressure and leg vascular conductance (femoral artery ultrasound) following spontaneous sympathetic bursts to assess sympathetic vascular transduction. Reducing sodium to 1000 mg/d increased renin activity, angiotensin II, and aldosterone (
P
<0.01 for all) but did not alter mean arterial pressure (78±2 versus 77±2 mm Hg,
P
=0.56), muscle sympathetic nerve activity (13.9±1.3 versus 13.9±0.8 bursts/min,
P
=0.98), or plasma/urine norepinephrine. Sympathetic vascular transduction decreased (
P
<0.01). These data suggest that reducing sodium from 2300 to 1000 mg/d stimulates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, does not increase resting basal sympathetic outflow, and reduces sympathetic vascular transduction in normotensive adults.