bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Far-field super-resolution imaging of resonant multiples
Authors: Guo Bowen , Huang Yunsong , Røstad Anders , Schuster Gerard
Published: May 2016

Seismic resonant multiples, which can yield resolutions more than twice the classical resolution limit, are used for far-field super-resolution imaging.
Experimental evidence supports mantle partial melting in the asthenosphere
Authors: Chantel Julien , Manthilake Geeth , Andrault Denis , Novella Davide , Yu Tony , Wang Yanbin
Published: May 2016

Based on sound velocity measurements, upper mantle seismic anomalies could be explained by a melt fraction as low as 0.2%.
Low-Level Laser Therapy for Chronic Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Glazov Gregory , Yelland Michael , Emery Jon
Published: May 2016

Objective

The efficacy of low-level laser treatment (LLLT) for chronic back pain remains controversial due to insufficient trial data. We aimed to conduct an updated review to determine if LLLT (including laser acupuncture) has specific benefits in chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP).

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for randomised trials using sham controls and blinded assessment examining the intervention of LLLT in adults with CNLBP. Primary outcomes were pain and global assessment of improvement with up to short-term follow-up. Secondary outcomes were disability, range of back movement, and adverse effects. A random effects meta-analysis was conducted. Subgroup analyses were based on laser dose, duration of baseline pain, and whether or not laser therapy used an acupuncture approach.

Results

15 studies were selected involving 1039 participants. At immediate and short-term follow-up there was significant pain reduction of up to WMD (weighted mean difference) −1.40 cm (95% CI −1.91 to −0.88 cm) in favour of laser treatment, occurring in trials using at least 3 Joules (J) per point, with baseline pain <30 months and in non-acupuncture LLLT trials. Global assessment showed a risk ratio of 2.16 (95% CI 1.61 to 2.90) in favour of laser treatment in the same groups only at immediate follow-up.

Conclusions

We demonstrated moderate quality of evidence (GRADE) to support a clinically important benefit in LLLT for CNLBP in the short term, which was only seen following higher laser dose interventions and in participants with a shorter duration of back pain. Rigorously blinded trials using appropriate laser dosage would provide greater certainty around this conclusion.
Formative research to develop theory-based messages for a Western Australian child drowning prevention television campaign: study protocol
Authors: Denehy Mel , Crawford Gemma , Leavy Justine , Nimmo Lauren , Jancey Jonine
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Worldwide, children under the age of 5 years are at particular risk of drowning. Responding to this need requires the development of evidence-informed drowning prevention strategies. Historically, drowning prevention strategies have included denying access, learning survival skills and providing supervision, as well as education and information which includes the use of mass media. Interventions underpinned by behavioural theory and formative evaluation tend to be more effective, yet few practical examples exist in the drowning and/or injury prevention literature. The Health Belief Model and Social Cognitive Theory will be used to explore participants' perspectives regarding proposed mass media messaging. This paper describes a qualitative protocol to undertake formative research to develop theory-based messages for a child drowning prevention campaign.

Methods and analysis

The primary data source will be focus group interviews with parents and caregivers of children under 5 years of age in metropolitan and regional Western Australia. Qualitative content analysis will be used to analyse the data.

Ethics and dissemination

This study will contribute to the drowning prevention literature to inform the development of future child drowning prevention mass media campaigns. Findings from the study will be disseminated to practitioners, policymakers and researchers via international conferences, peer and non-peer-reviewed journals and evidence summaries. The study was submitted and approved by the Curtin University Human Research Ethics Committee.
Nipple sparing versus skin sparing mastectomy: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Agha Riaz A , Wellstead Georgina , Sagoo Harkiran , Al Omran Yasser , Barai Ishani , Rajmohan Shivanchan , Fowler Alexander J , Orgill Dennis P , Rusby Jennifer E
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Breast cancer has a lifetime incidence of one in eight women. Over the past three decades there has been a move towards breast conservation and a focus on aesthetic outcomes while maintaining oncological safety. For some patients, mastectomy is the preferred option. There is growing interest in the potential use of nipple sparing mastectomy (NSM). However, oncological safety remains unproven, and the benefits and indications have not been clearly identified. The objective of this systematic review will be to determine the safety and efficacy of NSM as compared with skin sparing mastectomy (SSM).

Methods and analysis

All original comparative studies including; randomised controlled trials, cohort studies and case–control studies involving women undergoing either NSM or SSM for breast cancer will be included. Outcomes are primary—relating to oncological outcomes and secondary—relating to clinical, aesthetic, patient reported and quality of life outcomes. A comprehensive electronic literature search, designed by a search specialist, will be undertaken. Grey literature searches will also be conducted. Eligibility assessment will occur in two stages; title and abstract screening and then full text assessment. Each step will be conducted by two trained teams acting independently. Data will then be extracted and stored in a database with standardised extraction fields to facilitate easy and consistent data entry. Data analysis will be undertaken to explore the relationship between NSM or SSM and preselected outcomes, heterogeneity will be assessed using the Cochrane tests.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review requires no ethical approval. It will be published in a peer-reviewed journal. It will also be presented at national and international conferences. Updates of the review will be conducted to inform and guide healthcare practice and policy.
Evaluation of the optimal provision of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded material for reverse transcription-PCR in soft-tissue tumour diagnosis
Authors: Thway Khin , Wren Dorte , Lee Jasmin , Thompson Lisa , Fisher Cyril , Gonzalez David
Published: May 2016

Aims

Molecular genetic analysis is now a routine ancillary diagnostic modality to the histopathological diagnosis of soft-tissue neoplasms, many of which harbour characteristic gene fusions detectable by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). As the final diagnosis often depends on the molecular result, it is important to obtain the optimal yield of patient RNA.

Methods

We assessed the most reliable method of providing formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded material for optimal RNA yield by comparing three consecutive periods in which different preparations (5×10 μm scrolls, 5×5 μm sections and 1×10 μm sections) were used for RNA extraction for RT-PCR, with its technical success rate.

Results

For ‘2011’, ‘2012’ and ‘2013’, RT-PCR technical failure rates were 13.4%, 4.4% and 7.9%, respectively. The percentage of failed referral cases was 71.4%, 85.7% and 31.3%, and the proportion of core biopsy to excision specimens was 3:15, 2:5 and 13:3.

Conclusions

This study shows that the effectiveness of RNA extraction and purification is dependent on both specimen type and the tissue sectioning strategy. The failure rate has improved over recent years, particularly for large specimens as large numbers of thick 10 μm scrolls can saturate RNA extraction columns. In contrast, recent technical fails are more frequent in core biopsies, where 1×10 μm sections are insufficient for adequate RNA extraction. While previous technical fails occurred mostly in referred cases, this appears no longer the case due to the better fixation and processing of specimens in external surgical pathology departments because of the widespread recognition of the importance of molecular diagnostics as an important part of the patient pathway.
Electrochemical Na+ and Ca2+ gradients drive coupled-clock regulation of automaticity of isolated rabbit sinoatrial nodal pacemaker cells
Authors: Sirenko Syevda G. , Maltsev Victor A. , Yaniv Yael , Bychkov Rostislav , Yaeger Daniel , Vinogradova Tatiana , Spurgeon Harold A. , Lakatta Edward G.
Published: May 2016

Coupling of an intracellular Ca2+ clock to surface membrane ion channels, i.e., a “membrane clock, ” via coupling of electrochemical Na+ and Ca2+ gradients ( ENa and ECa, respectively) has been theorized to regulate sinoatrial nodal cell (SANC) normal automaticity. To test this hypothesis, we measured responses of [Na+]i, [Ca2+]i, membrane potential, action potential cycle length (APCL), and rhythm in rabbit SANCs to Na+/K+ pump inhibition by the digitalis glycoside, digoxigenin (DG, 10–20 μmol/l). Initial small but significant increases in [Na+]i and [Ca2+]i and reductions in ENa and ECa in response to DG led to a small reduction in maximum diastolic potential (MDP), significantly enhanced local diastolic Ca2+ releases (LCRs), and reduced the average APCL. As [Na+]i and [Ca2+]i continued to increase at longer times following DG exposure, further significant reductions in MDP, ENa, and ECa occurred; LCRs became significantly reduced, and APCL became progressively and significantly prolonged. This was accompanied by increased APCL variability. We also employed a coupled-clock numerical model to simulate changes in ENa and ECa simultaneously with ion currents not measured experimentally. Numerical modeling predicted that, as the ENa and ECa monotonically reduced over time in response to DG, ion currents ( ICaL, ICaT, If, IKr, and IbNa) monotonically decreased. In parallel with the biphasic APCL, diastolic INCX manifested biphasic changes; initial INCX increase attributable to enhanced LCR ensemble Ca2+ signal was followed by INCX reduction as ENCX ( ENCX = 3 ENa − 2 ECa) decreased. Thus SANC automaticity is tightly regulated by ENa, ECa, and ENCX via a complex interplay of numerous key clock components that regulate SANC clock coupling.
Computational Intelligence Approach for Estimating Superconducting Transition Temperature of Disordered MgB2Superconductors Using Room Temperature Resistivity
Authors: Owolabi Taoreed O. , Akande Kabiru O. , Olatunji Sunday O.
Published: May 2016

Doping and fabrication conditions bring about disorder in MgB2superconductor and further influence its room temperature resistivity as well as its superconducting transition temperature (TC). Existence of a model that directly estimatesTCof any doped MgB2superconductor from the room temperature resistivity would have immense significance since room temperature resistivity is easily measured using conventional resistivity measuring instrument and the experimental measurement ofTCwastes valuable resources and is confined to low temperature regime. This work develops a model, superconducting transition temperature estimator (STTE), that directly estimatesTCof disordered MgB2superconductors using room temperature resistivity as input to the model. STTE was developed through training and testing support vector regression (SVR) with ten experimental values of room temperature resistivity and their correspondingTCusing the best performance parameters obtained through test-set cross validation optimization technique. The developed STTE was used to estimateTCof different disordered MgB2superconductors and the obtained results show excellent agreement with the reported experimental data. STTE can therefore be incorporated into resistivity measuring instruments for quick and direct estimation ofTCof disordered MgB2superconductors with high degree of accuracy.
Detection and Quantization of Bearing Fault in Direct Drive Wind Turbine via Comparative Analysis
Authors: Teng Wei , Jiang Rui , Ding Xian , Liu Yibing , Ma Zhiyong
Published: May 2016

Bearing fault is usually buried by intensive noise because of the low speed and heavy load in direct drive wind turbine (DDWT). Furthermore, varying wind speed and alternating loads make it difficult to quantize bearing fault feature that indicates the degree of deterioration. This paper presents the application of multiscale enveloping spectrogram (MuSEnS) and cepstrum to detect and quantize bearing fault in DDWT. MuSEnS can manifest fault modulation information adaptively based on the capacity of complex wavelet transform, which enables the weak bearing fault in DDWT to be detected. Cepstrum can calculate the average interval of periodic components in frequency domain and is suitable for quantizing bearing fault feature under varying operation conditions due to the logarithm weight on the power spectrum. Through comparing a faulty DDWT with a normal one, the bearing fault feature is evidenced and the quantization index is calculated, which show a good application prospect for condition monitoring and fault diagnosis in real DDWT.
A Miniaturized Meandered Dipole UHF RFID Tag Antenna for Flexible Application
Authors: Xuan Xiuwei , Lv Lianrong , Li Kun
Published: May 2016

A miniaturized meandered dipole antenna for UHF RFID tag is proposed. Different resonance frequencies and impedance can be achieved by adjusting the number of the meanders, which can help to reduce the size of the antenna. Due to the radiation patches, the input impedance of the antenna can be flexibly tuned in a large scale. The proposed antenna is printed on polyethylene (PET) substrate with a total volume of 48 mm × 13.7 mm × 0.5 mm. Modeling and simulation results show that the reflection coefficient of the antenna is less than −15 dB at 860–960 MHz. Experimental studies demonstrate that the minimum threshold power of the antenna is between 23 and 26 dBm and the measured read range is 3-4 m.
Cognitive Changes following Bilateral Deep Brain Stimulation of Subthalamic Nucleus in Parkinson’s Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xie Yi , Meng Xiangyu , Xiao Jinsong , Zhang Jie , Zhang Junjian
Published: May 2016

Background. Nowadays, it has been largely acknowledged that deep brain stimulation of subthalamic nucleus (STN DBS) can alleviate motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, but its effects on cognitive function remain unclear, which are not given enough attention by many clinical doctors and researchers. To date, 3 existing meta-analyses focusing on this issue included self-control studies and have not drawn consistent conclusions. The present study is the first to compare effect sizes of primary studies that include control groups, hoping to reveal the net cognitive outcomes after STN DBS and the clinical significance. Methods. A structured literature search was conducted using strict criteria. Only studies with control group could be included. Data on age, duration of disease, levodopa equivalent dosage (LED), and multiple cognitive scales were collected and pooled. Results. Of 172 articles identified, 10 studies (including 3 randomized controlled trials and 7 nonrandomized controlled studies) were eligible for inclusion. The results suggest that STN DBS results in decreased global cognition, memory, verbal fluency, and executive function compared with control group. No significant difference is found in other cognitive domains. Conclusions. STN DBS seems relatively safe with respect to cognitive function, and further studies should focus on the exact mechanisms of possible verbal deterioration after surgery in the future.
A Study on Physical Performance for Poly(L-lactic acid) in Addition to Layered Strontium Phenylphosphonate
Authors: Zhang Yan-Hua , Cai Yan-Hua
Published: May 2016

The organic-inorganic hybrid layered strontium phenylphosphonate (SrP) was synthesized by using strontium chloride and phenylphosphinic acid. And the influence of layered SrP on the crystallization behavior and thermal stability of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) was investigated through DSC, XRD, and TGA. Both DSC and XRD results demonstrated that layered SrP had the powerful accelerated ability for PLLA crystallization, and in the range of studied concentration, 0.7 wt%–1 wt% is the optimum concentration range to achieve rapid crystallization of PLLA. Meantime, as a result, the increase of cooling rate in nonisothermal crystallization procedure seriously affected the crystallization accelerated efficiency of SrP. Thermal stability measurement showed that layered SrP could cause the onset decomposition temperature of PLLA to decrease, but the thermal decomposition behavior of PLLA hardly depended on the SrP concentration.
Frequency of Specific Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors among Cameroonian Patients on Dialysis: The Cases of Anaemia, Inflammation, Phosphate, and Calcium
Authors: Pancha Mbouemboue Olivier , Danbe Olivier Djile , Tangyi Tamanji Marcel , Ngoufack Jacques Olivier
Published: May 2016

Specific cardiovascular risk factors are known to contribute to increasing cardiovascular mortality in patients with chronic renal disease. However, little is known about their distribution in our population. This study aimed at determining the prevalence of anaemia, inflammation, and phosphocalcium disorders in Cameroonian patients on dialysis. Thirty-five participants with stage V chronic kidney disease (defined by glomerular filtration rate, GFR < 15 mL/1.73 m3) of age at least 20 years on haemodialysis were randomly recruited. A control group composed of persons without a history of renal or cardiovascular disease was also recruited. Haemoglobin concentration, serum phosphate concentration, serum calcium concentration, and CRP status as a marker of inflammation were determined for all participants. Anaemia, phosphocalcium metabolic disorders, and a positive CRP result among haemodialysed patients were estimated at 94.3%, 61.6%, and 77.1%, respectively. Anaemia was diagnosed in all female patients compared to 92% in males, while a positive CRP result was recorded in 90% of females and 72% of males. No significant differences were observed on the distribution of studied specific cardiovascular risk factors with duration of dialysis. Among the factors studied, anaemia was the most encountered.
Topographical and Physicochemical Contrast in Photopatterned SU-8 Films for Microfabrication of Multilayer Structures
Authors: Alarcón L. Salazar , Martínez E. D. , Rodríguez L. M. , Pastoriza H.
Published: May 2016

During SU-8 standard photolithography process, a patterned topography is formed with a characteristic height profile produced by the different shrinkage of the UV exposed and masked regions. We study the change of wettability, film solubility, and topographic modifications on SU-8 films of different thicknesses and show its relevance in the formation of spinning-flow arrays on top layers made from positive photoresists. Also, considerable contrast in film solubility and surface energy as observed from contact angle measurements is produced. Interface diffusion of the photoresists was also observed and followed by Rutherford Back Scattering. We discuss the derivations of the mentioned effects concerning the limitations to multilayered microfabrication processes and possibilities to take advantage of the surface profiles obtained.
Circulating CTRP1 Levels in Type 2 Diabetes and Their Association with FGF21
Authors: Han Sora , Kim Jong Dai , Lee Sunyi , Jeong Ae Lee , Park Jeong Su , Yong Hyo Jeong , Boldbaatar Ariundavaa , Ka Hye In , Rhee Eun-Jung , Lee Won-Young , Yang Young
Published: May 2016

The goal of this study was to investigate whether circulating C1q/TNF-α-related protein 1 (CTRP1) levels are associated with diabetes. In addition, relationships between CTRP1 and other diabetes-related cytokines were elucidated, including adiponectin and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21). A total of 178 subjects (78 men and 100 women) aged 29–70 years (mean age, 46.1 years) were randomly selected. The sera from a normal glucose tolerance group (n=68) and a prediabetes/type 2 diabetes group (n=110) were collected; then, circulating levels of CTRP1, adiponectin, and FGF21 were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in all sera. Subjects with either prediabetes or diabetes exhibited higher circulating CTRP1 levels than healthy subjects. Sera analysis revealed that CTRP1 was positively correlated with age, body mass index, fasting blood glucose, and circulating FGF21 levels. However, CTRP1 was negatively correlated with total cholesterol and total circulating adiponectin levels in univariate analysis. In addition, multivariate analysis found that CTRP1 was independently associated with age, fasting blood glucose, and circulating FGF21 levels. CTRP1 was correlated with homeostasis model assessment-β(HOMA-β), but no correlation was observed with HOMA-insulin resistance. In conclusion, circulating CTRP1 levels are increased in subjects with type 2 diabetes and are positively associated with circulating FGF21 levels.
Inverse Problem for Color Doppler Ultrasound-Assisted Intracardiac Blood Flow Imaging
Authors: Jang Jaeseong , Ahn Chi Young , Choi Jung-Il , Seo Jin Keun
Published: May 2016

For the assessment of the left ventricle (LV), echocardiography has been widely used to visualize and quantify geometrical variations of LV. However, echocardiographic image itself is not sufficient to describe a swirling pattern which is a characteristic blood flow pattern inside LV without any treatment on the image. We propose a mathematical framework based on an inverse problem for three-dimensional (3D) LV blood flow reconstruction. The reconstruction model combines the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations with one-direction velocity component of the synthetic flow data (or color Doppler data) from the forward simulation (or measurement). Moreover, time-varying LV boundaries are extracted from the intensity data to determine boundary conditions of the reconstruction model. Forward simulations of intracardiac blood flow are performed using a fluid-structure interaction model in order to obtain synthetic flow data. The proposed model significantly reduces the local and global errors of the reconstructed flow fields. We demonstrate the feasibility and potential usefulness of the proposed reconstruction model in predicting dynamic swirling patterns inside the LV over a cardiac cycle.
Experimental Research on Hysteretic Characteristics of Steel Plates Artificially Corroded by Neutral Salt Spray
Authors: Xu Shan-hua , Qin Guang-chong , Zhang Zong-xing
Published: May 2016

This paper aims to study the hysteretic characteristics of the steel plates artificially corroded by neutral salt spray. Salt spray was applied to accelerate the corrosion on the steel plates; specimens of varying degrees of corrosion were obtained in this manner. And each specimen was subject to cyclic loading test to get the hysteretic curve. Then the experimental results were extensively discussed, focusing on strength and ductility, hysteretic energy, the skeleton curve, and unloading and loading curve. After that, the hysteretic constitutive model of corroded steel was established based on the first time loading criterion, unloading criterion, cycle skeleton criterion, and reloading curve criterion. The result of the experiment showed that, with the increase of the degree of corrosion, the mechanical properties and seismic energy dissipation performance of seismic energy of the steel decreased; the deterioration of ductility got aggravated. On the other hand, the skeleton curve and the Ramberg-Osgood model were well matched, and the coefficient of circular enhancement showed a decreasing trend; the variation of cyclic hardening exponent did not have an obvious pattern. Meanwhile, the hysteretic constitutive model of corroded steel and the results of the experiment were well matched.
An Artificial Intelligence System to Predict Quality of Service in Banking Organizations
Authors: Castelli Mauro , Manzoni Luca , Popovič Aleš
Published: May 2016

Quality of service, that is, the waiting time that customers must endure in order to receive a service, is a critical performance aspect in private and public service organizations. Providing good service quality is particularly important in highly competitive sectors where similar services exist. In this paper, focusing on banking sector, we propose an artificial intelligence system for building a model for the prediction of service quality. While the traditional approach used for building analytical models relies on theories and assumptions about the problem at hand, we propose a novel approach for learning models from actual data. Thus, the proposed approach is not biased by the knowledge that experts may have about the problem, but it is completely based on the available data. The system is based on a recently defined variant of genetic programming that allows practitioners to include the concept of semantics in the search process. This will have beneficial effects on the search process and will produce analytical models that are based only on the data and not on domain-dependent knowledge.
Analytical Approach to Polarization Mode Dispersion in Linearly Spun Fiber with Birefringence
Authors: Mishra Vinod K.
Published: May 2016

The behavior of Polarization Mode Dispersion (PMD) in spun optical fiber is a topic of great interest in optical networking. Earlier work in this area has focused more on approximate or numerical solutions. In this paper we present analytical results for PMD in spun fibers with triangular spin profile function. It is found that in some parameter ranges the analytical results differ from the approximations.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 11 (CDK11) Is Required for Ovarian Cancer Cell Growth In Vitro and In Vivo, and Its Inhibition Causes Apoptosis and Sensitizes Cells to Paclitaxel
Authors: Liu Xianzhe , Gao Yan , Shen Jacson , Yang Wen , Choy Edwin , Mankin Henry , Hornicek Francis J. , Duan Zhenfeng
Published: May 2016

Ovarian cancer is currently the most lethal gynecologic malignancy with limited treatment options. Improved targeted therapies are needed to combat ovarian cancer. Here, we report the identification of cyclin-dependent kinase 11 (CDK11) as a mediator of tumor cell growth and proliferation in ovarian cancer cells. Although CDK11 has not been implicated previously in this disease, we have found that its expression is upregulated in human ovarian cancer tissues and associated with malignant progression. Metastatic and recurrent tumors have significantly higher CDK11 expression when compared with the matched, original primary tumors. RNAi-mediated CDK11 silencing by synthetic siRNA or lentiviral shRNA decreased cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, CDK11 knockdown enhances the cytotoxic effect of paclitaxel to inhibit cell growth in ovarian cancer cells. Systemic in vivo administration of CDK11 siRNA reduced the tumor growth in an ovarian cancer xenograft model. Our findings suggest that CDK11 may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of ovarian cancer patients. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(7); 1691–701. ©2016 AACR.
Combining ABCG2 Inhibitors with IMMU-132, an Anti–Trop-2 Antibody Conjugate of SN-38, Overcomes Resistance to SN-38 in Breast and Gastric Cancers
Authors: Chang Chien-Hsing , Wang Yang , Zalath Maria , Liu Donglin , Cardillo Thomas M. , Goldenberg David M.
Published: May 2016

Sacituzumab govitecan (IMMU-132), an SN-38–conjugated antibody–drug conjugate, is showing promising therapeutic results in a phase I/II trial of patients with advanced Trop-2–expressing, metastatic, solid cancers. As members of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters confer chemotherapy resistance by active drug efflux, which is a frequent cause of treatment failure, we explored the use of known inhibitors of ABC transporters for improving the therapeutic efficacy of IMMU-132 by overcoming SN-38 resistance. Two human tumor cell lines made resistant to SN-38, MDA-MB-231-S120 (human breast cancer) and NCI-N87-S120 (human gastric cancer), were established by continuous exposure of the parental cells to stepwise increased concentrations of SN-38 and analyzed by flow cytometry for functional activities of ABCG2 and ABCB1, immunoblotting and qRT-PCR for the expression of ABCG2 at both protein and mRNA levels, and MTS assays for the potency of SN-38 alone or in combination with a modulator of ABC transporters. MDA-MB-231-S120 and NCI-N87-S120 displayed reduced sensitivity to SN-38 in vitro, with IC50 values approximately 50-fold higher than parental MDA-MB-231 and NCI-N87 cells. The increase in drug resistance of both S120 cell populations is associated with the expression of functional ABCG2, but not ABCB1. Importantly, treatment of both S120 sublines with known ABCG2 inhibitors (fumitremorgin C, Ko143, and YHO-13351) restored toxicity of SN-38, and the combination of YHO-13351 with IMMU-132 increased the median survival of mice bearing NCI-N87-S120 xenografts. These results provide a rationale for combination therapy of IMMU-132 and inhibitors of ABC transporters, such as YHO-13351. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(8); 1910–9. ©2016 AACR.
Helical Centerline Stent Improves Patency
Authors: Zeller Thomas , Gaines Peter A. , Ansel Gary M. , Caro Colin G.
Published: May 2016

Background—

Reintervention in the femoropopliteal artery is frequent and a major driver of cost-effectiveness. High wall shear generated by swirling blood flow is associated with reduced occurrence of atherosclerosis and restenosis. This trial investigated the clinical and hemodynamic outcomes of the BioMimics 3D self-expanding tubular nitinol stent with helical centerline geometry compared with a straight stent in the femoropopliteal artery.

Methods and Results—

In a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial, 76 patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease were randomized 2:1 to receive a helical or a straight stent. An independent core laboratory adjudicated angiographic and ultrasound parameters. The primary safety end point was freedom from a composite of all death, target limb amputation, and target lesion revascularization at 30 days. The primary effectiveness end point was freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization at 6 months. Patency was a secondary end point. Subjects were followed up for 2 years from intervention. The primary safety (1-sided
P
<0.01) and efficacy (1-sided
P
<0.001) end points for the helical stent were met. The proportion of patients treated with the helical stent who maintained patency at 12 and 24 months was 80% and 72%, respectively, compared with 71% and 55% for the control group. The difference was significant through 24 months (
P
=0.05). Freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization for the helical compared with straight stent was 91% versus 92% at 12 months and 91% versus 76% at 24 months.

Conclusions—

Both groups had similar safety outcomes and clinically driven target lesion revascularization to 2 years. However, after placement of a BioMimics 3D helical stent, there was improved patency to 2 years.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02163863.
Multimarker Risk Stratification in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: O'Donoghue Michelle L. , Morrow David A. , Cannon Christopher P. , Jarolim Petr , Desai Nihar R. , Sherwood Matthew W. , Murphy Sabina A. , Gerszten Robert E. , Sabatine Marc S.
Published: May 2016

Background

Several biomarkers have individually been shown to be useful for risk stratification in patients with acute myocardial infarction (
MI
). The optimal multimarker strategy remains undefined.

Methods and Results

Biomarkers representing different pathobiological axes were studied, including myocardial stress/structural changes (
NT
‐pro B‐type natriuretic peptide [
NT
‐pro
BNP
], midregional proatrial natriuretic peptide [
MR
‐pro
ANP
], suppression of tumorigenicity 2 [
ST
2], galectin‐3, midregional proadrenomedullin [
MR
‐pro
ADM
], and copeptin), myonecrosis (troponin T), and inflammation (myeloperoxidase [
MPO
], high sensitivity C‐reactive protein [hs
CRP
], pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A [
PAPP
‐A], and growth‐differentiation factor‐15 [
GDF
‐15]), in up to 1258 patients from Clopidogrel as Adjunctive Reperfusion Therapy‐Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 28 (
CLARITY
‐
TIMI
28), a randomized trial of clopidogrel in
ST
‐elevation
MI
(
STEMI
). Patients were followed for 30 days. Biomarker analyses were adjusted for traditional clinical variables. Forward step‐wise selection was used to assess a multimarker strategy. After adjustment for clinical variables and using a dichotomous cutpoint, 7 biomarkers were each significantly associated with a higher odds of cardiovascular death or heart failure (
HF
) through 30 days, including
NT
‐pro
BNP
(adjusted odds ratio [
OR
adj
], 2.54; 95%
CI
, 1.47–4.37),
MR
‐pro
ANP
(2.18; 1.27–3.76),
ST
2 (2.88; 1.72–4.81), troponin T (4.13; 1.85–9.20),
MPO
(2.75; 1.20–6.27), hs
CRP
(1.96, 1.17–3.30), and
PAPP
‐A (3.04; 1.17–7.88). In a multimarker model, 3 biomarkers emerged as significant and complementary predictors of cardiovascular death or
HF
:
ST
2 (
OR
adj
, 2.87; 1.61–5.12), troponin T (2.34; 1.09–5.01 and 4.13, 1.85–9.20, respectively for intermediate and high levels), and
MPO
(2.49; 1.04–5.96). When added to the
TIMI STEMI
Risk Score alone, the multimarker risk score significantly improved the C‐statistic (area under the curve, 0.75 [95%
CI
, 0.69–0.81] to 0.82 [0.78–0.87];
P
=0.001), net reclassification index (0.93;
P
<0.001), and integrated discrimination index (0.09;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

In patients with
STEMI
, a multimarker strategy that combines biomarkers across pathobiological axes of myocardial stress, myocyte necrosis, and inflammation provides incremental prognostic information for prediction of cardiovascular death or
HF
.
Dairy Consumption and Risk of Stroke: A Systematic Review and Updated Dose–Response Meta‐Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies
Authors: de Goede Janette , Soedamah‐Muthu Sabita S. , Pan An , Gijsbers Lieke , Geleijnse Johanna M.
Published: May 2016

Background

A higher milk consumption may be associated with a lower stroke risk. We conducted a comprehensive systematic review and dose–response meta‐analysis of milk and other dairy products in relation to stroke risk.

Methods and Results

Through a systematic literature search, prospective cohort studies of dairy foods and incident stroke in stroke‐free adults were identified. Random‐effects meta‐analyses with summarized dose–response data were performed, taking into account sources of heterogeneity, and spline models were used to systematically investigate nonlinearity of the associations. We included 18 studies with 8 to 26 years of follow‐up that included 762 414 individuals and 29 943 stroke events. An increment of 200 g of daily milk intake was associated with a 7% lower risk of stroke (relative risk 0.93; 95%
CI
0.88–0.98;
P
=0.004; I
2
=86%). Relative risks were 0.82 (95%
CI
0.75–0.90) in East Asian and 0.98 (95%
CI
0.95–1.01) in Western countries (median intakes 38 and 266 g/day, respectively) with less but still considerable heterogeneity within the continents. Cheese intake was marginally inversely associated with stroke risk (relative risk 0.97; 95%
CI
0.94–1.01 per 40 g/day). Risk reductions were maximal around 125 g/day for milk and from 25 g/day onwards for cheese. Based on a limited number of studies, high‐fat milk was directly associated with stroke risk. No associations were found for yogurt, butter, or total dairy.

Conclusions

Milk and cheese consumption were inversely associated with stroke risk. Results should be placed in the context of the observed heterogeneity. Future epidemiological studies should provide more details about dairy types, including fat content. In addition, the role of dairy in Asian populations deserves further attention.
Sphingosine‐1‐Phosphate Receptor 1 Regulates Cardiac Function by Modulating Ca
2+
Sensitivity and Na
+
/H
+
Exchange and Mediates Protection by Ischemic Preconditioning
Authors: Keul Petra , van Borren Marcel M. G. J. , Ghanem Alexander , Müller Frank Ulrich , Baartscheer Antonius , Verkerk Arie O. , Stümpel Frank , Schulte Jan Sebastian , Hamdani Nazha , Linke Wolfgang A. , van Loenen Pieter , Matus Marek , Schmitz Wilhelm , Stypmann Jörg , Tiemann Klaus , Ravesloot Jan‐Hindrik , Alewijnse Astrid E. , Hermann Sven , Spijkers Léon J. A. , Hiller Karl‐Heinz , Herr Deron , Heusch Gerd , Schäfers Michael , Peters Stephan L. M. , Chun Jerold , Levkau Bodo
Published: May 2016

Background

Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate plays vital roles in cardiomyocyte physiology, myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury, and ischemic preconditioning. The function of the cardiomyocyte sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptor 1 (S1P
1
) in vivo is unknown.

Methods and Results

Cardiomyocyte‐restricted deletion of S1P
1
in mice (S1P
1
α

MHCC

re
) resulted in progressive cardiomyopathy, compromised response to dobutamine, and premature death. Isolated cardiomyocytes from S1P
1
α

MHCC

re
mice revealed reduced diastolic and systolic Ca
2+
concentrations that were secondary to reduced intracellular Na
+
and caused by suppressed activity of the sarcolemmal Na
+
/H
+
exchanger
NHE
‐1 in the absence of S1P
1
. This scenario was successfully reproduced in wild‐type cardiomyocytes by pharmacological inhibition of S1P
1
or sphingosine kinases. Furthermore, Sarcomere shortening of S1P
1
α

MHCC

re
cardiomyocytes was intact, but sarcomere relaxation was attenuated and Ca
2+
sensitivity increased, respectively. This went along with reduced phosphorylation of regulatory myofilament proteins such as myosin light chain 2, myosin‐binding protein C, and troponin I. In addition, S1P
1
mediated the inhibitory effect of exogenous sphingosine‐1‐phosphate on β‐adrenergic–induced cardiomyocyte contractility by inhibiting the adenylate cyclase. Furthermore, ischemic precondtioning was abolished in S1P
1
α

MHCC

re
mice and was accompanied by defective Akt activation during preconditioning.

Conclusions

Tonic S1P
1
signaling by endogenous sphingosine‐1‐phosphate contributes to intracellular Ca
2+
homeostasis by maintaining basal
NHE
‐1 activity and controls simultaneously myofibril Ca
2+
sensitivity through its inhibitory effect on adenylate cyclase. Cardioprotection by ischemic precondtioning depends on intact S1P
1
signaling. These key findings on S1P
1
functions in cardiac physiology may offer novel therapeutic approaches to cardiac diseases.
High Risk of Venous Thromboembolism in Klinefelter Syndrome
Authors: Zöller Bengt , Ji Jianguang , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: May 2016

Background

Klinefelter syndrome (
KS
) is the most common sex chromosome disorder. The genetic background is the extra X chromosome. Venous thromboembolism (
VTE
) has been observed among
KS
patients. The aim of the present study was to examine whether
KS
is associated with
VTE
.

Methods and Results

We followed up all hospital in‐ and outpatients (N=1085) in Sweden with a diagnosis of
KS
between January 1, 1969, and December 31, 2010, for diagnosis of
VTE
. The reference population was the total male populace of Sweden. We calculated standardized incidence ratios for
VTE
, adjusted for age, sex, education, time period, and region of residence. The standardized incidence ratio for
KS
was 6.43 (95% CI 5.15–7.93), with the highest ratio observed at young age. The standardized incidence ratios for
VTE
were 12.10 (95%
CI
6.22–21.21) before age 30 years, 11.00 (95% CI 7.86–14.99) between ages 30 and 49 years, 4.83 (95% CI 3.23–6.95) between ages 50 and 69 years, and 2.07 (95% CI 0.74–4.53) for ages ≥70 years. The cumulative incidence of
VTE
for
KS
patients was 8.6% at age 50 years and 20.8% at age 70 years.

Conclusions

KS is associated with high risk of VTE. KS could be considered a genetic hypercoagulable state. This has clinical implications for the prevention and diagnosis of
VTE
among patients with KS.
A new species of spiny-backed treefrog (Osteocephalus) from Central Amazonian Brazil (Amphibia: Anura: Hylidae)
Authors: JUNGFER KARL-HEINZ , VERDADE VANESSA K. , FAIVOVICH JULIÁN , RODRIGUES MIGUEL T.
Published: May 2016

A new species of treefrog of the genus Osteocephalus is described from the Rio Abacaxis, a southern tributary of the Amazonas in the state of Amazonas, Brazil. This member of the O. buckleyi group is characterized by green dorsal colouration with irregular blotches of various shades of brown, light venter with tan spots and bold dark markings on the posterior surfaces of the thighs. It can be distinguished from its closest relative, O. helenae from the same general area, by the lack of an axillary membrane, a few indistinct tubercles on the proximal segment of Finger IV and single ulnar tubercles.
Euconnus malakkanus Franz transferred to Elacatophora Schaufuss (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Scydmaeninae)
Authors: JAŁOSZYŃSKI PAWEŁ
Published: May 2016

The female holotype of Euconnus malakkanus Franz is recognized as belonging in Elacatophora Schaufuss; the species is transferred resulting in Elacatophora malakkana (Franz), comb. n. Although known only from a female, this species seems to be different from its morphologically uniform congeners, as demonstrated by comparing measurements and proportions of body parts. A checklist of all currently known species of Elacatophora with complete synonymy and distribution is provided.
T cells for viral infections after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Bollard Catherine M. , Heslop Helen E.
Published: May 2016

Despite recent advances in the field of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), viral infections are still a major complication during the period of immune suppression that follows the procedure. Adoptive transfer of donor-derived virus-specific cytotoxic T cells (VSTs) is a strategy to rapidly restore virus-specific immunity to prevent or treat viral diseases after HSCT. Early proof of principle studies demonstrated that the administration of donor-derived T cells specific for cytomegalovirus or Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) could effectively restore virus-specific immunity and control viral infections. Subsequent studies using different expansion or direct selection techniques have shown that donor-derived VSTs confer protection in vivo after adoptive transfer in 70% to 90% of recipients. Because a major cause of failure is lack of immunity to the infecting virus in a naïve donor, more recent studies have infused closely matched third-party VSTs and reported response rates of 60% to 70%. Current efforts have focused on broadening the applicability of this approach by: (1) extending the number of viral antigens being targeted, (2) simplifying manufacture, (3) exploring strategies for recipients of virus-naïve donor grafts, and (4) developing and optimizing “off the shelf” approaches.
Modern Family: Circuits of Transmission between Arabs and Blacks
Authors: Pickens Therí A.
Published: May 2016

This essay asks what kinds of theoretical paradigms are possible in a geographical space where the foundational racial split is along the fault lines of Blackness and whiteness. What other relationships are possible between communities of color in this geo-political, socio-cultural space? In keeping with this forum's emphasis on “relationality,” I argue for a turn to Blackness since it troubles the emphasis on Eurocentric ways of thinking and disrupts the linear progressive narrative with which we are all acquainted. To relate to Blackness as a deliberate choice authorizes a reconceptualization of history, culture, and politics (including, and perhaps most especially, the democratic experiment of the United States). As an example, I turn to the circuits of transmission between Black and Arab communities as a way to think through the ways Arab American immigrant narratives and conceptions of futurity shift when Blackness becomes the principal critical lens.
Swarm-Based Smart City Platform: A Traffic Application
Authors: Chamoso Pablo , De La Prieta Fernando
Published: May 2016

Smart cities are proposed as a medium-term option for all cities. This article aims to propose an architecture that allows cities to provide solutions to interconnect all their elements. The study case focuses in locating and optimized regulation of traffic in cities. However, thanks to the proposed structure and the applied algorithms, the architecture is scalable in size of the sensor network, in functionality or even in the use of resources. A simulation environment that is able to show the operation of the architecture in the same way that a real city would, is presented.
Metastatic malignant struma ovarii with coexistence of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Authors: Russo Marco , Marturano Ilenia , Masucci Romilda , Caruso Melania , Fornito Maria Concetta , Tumino Dario , Tavarelli Martina , Squatrito Sebastiano , Pellegriti Gabriella
Published: May 2016

Struma ovarii is a rare ovarian teratoma characterized by the presence of thyroid tissue as the major component. Malignant transformation of the thyroidal component (malignant struma ovarii) has been reported in approximately 5% of struma ovarii. The management and follow-up of this unusual disease remain controversial. We report the case of a woman with a history of autoimmune thyroiditis and a previous resection of a benign struma ovarii that underwent hystero-annexiectomy for malignant struma ovarii with multiple papillary thyroid cancer foci and peritoneal involvement. Total thyroidectomy and subsequent radioiodine treatment lead to complete disease remission after 104 months of follow-up. The diagnosis and natural progression of malignant struma ovarii are difficult to discern, and relapses can occur several years after diagnosis. A multidisciplinary approach is mandatory; after surgical excision of malignant struma, thyroidectomy in combination with 131I therapy should be considered after risk stratification in accordance with a standard approach in differentiated thyroid cancer patients.

Learning points

Malignant struma ovarii is a rare disease; diagnosis is difficult and management is not well defined.

Predominant sites of metastasis are adjacent pelvic structures.

Thyroidectomy and 131I therapy should be considered after risk stratification in accordance with standard approaches in DTC patients.