bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Altered Platelet Morphological Parameters and Retinopathy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Yilmaz Tolga , Yilmaz Ahu
Published: April 2016

Purpose. To investigate whether platelet morphology or function is altered in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR).Methods. This prospective study enrolled 85 healthy controls (HCs) (group 1) and 262 patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Patients were subclassified into three groups according to ocular findings: no DR (group 2;n=88); nonproliferative DR (group 3;n=88), and proliferative DR (group 4;n=86). Mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet large cell ratio (PLCR), plateletcrit (PCT) values, and platelet count were measured in the studied groups.Results. MPV, PDW, and PLCR levels were significantly altered in groups 2–4 compared with HCs (p<0.05,p<0.05,p<0.05). Compared with group 2, both DR groups had higher MPV and PDW levels, with a significant difference between groups 2 and 4 for both MPV (p=0.036) and PDW (p=0.006). PLCR correlated with retinopathy stage, but no significant difference was found between the DR groups. Platelet count and PCT values were not significantly different between the groups (p>0.05).Conclusion. Our findings suggest an association between mean platelet indices (MPI) (i.e., MPV, PDW, and PLCR) and DR stage. Therefore, MPI could be a beneficial prognostic marker of DR in patients with T2DM.
NOTCH Signaling Regulates Asymmetric Cell Fate of Fast- and Slow-Cycling Colon Cancer–Initiating Cells
Authors: Srinivasan Tara , Walters Jewell , Bu Pengcheng , Than Elaine Bich , Tung Kuei-Ling , Chen Kai-Yuan , Panarelli Nicole , Milsom Jeff , Augenlicht Leonard , Lipkin Steven M. , Shen Xiling
Published: April 2016

Colorectal cancer cells with stem-like properties, referred to as colon cancer–initiating cells (CCIC), have high tumorigenic potential. While CCIC can differentiate to promote cellular heterogeneity, it remains unclear whether CCIC within a tumor contain distinct subpopulations. Here, we describe the co-existence of fast- and slow-cycling CCIC, which can undergo asymmetric division to generate each other, highlighting CCIC plasticity and interconvertibility. Fast-cycling CCIC express markers, such as LGR5 and CD133, rely on MYC for their proliferation, whereas slow-cycling CCIC express markers, such as BMI1 and hTERT, are independent of MYC. NOTCH signaling promotes asymmetric cell fate, regulating the balance between these two populations. Overall, our results illuminate the basis for CCIC heterogeneity and plasticity by defining a direct interconversion mechanism between slow- and fast-cycling CCIC. Cancer Res; 76(11); 3411–21. ©2016 AACR.
Normal Fetal Long Bone Length from Computed Tomography: Potential Value in the Prenatal Evaluation of Skeletal Dysplasias
Authors: Victoria Teresa , Shakir Naseem U. , Andronikou Savvas , Edgar J. Christopher , Germaine Pauline , Epelman Monica , Johnson Ann M. , Jaramillo Diego
Published: April 2016

Background: The prenatal evaluation of skeletal dysplasias is challenging. Ultrasound (US) has limited sensitivity in evaluating these abnormalities. Low-dose fetal computed tomography (CT) is a helpful adjunct in evaluating the fetus with severe abnormalities, but its use is limited by lack of data on normal fetal bone length. Objective: To obtain CT measurements of fetal long bones and to compare published US normative bone length measures to examine their similarity. Methods: A retrospective search of a radiographic database for gravid patients with CT of the abdomen/pelvis for acute maternal abdomen was performed. Fetal long bone measurements were plotted against gestational age (GA)/standard US measurements. Regression coefficients were calculated (p values <0.05 were considered significant). Bland-Altman plots were constructed to identify any systematic difference between CT and US bone length measures. Results: Twenty-five cases met the inclusion criterion of fetal GA 16-39 weeks. The length of long bones increased with GA, with strong R2 values for each measurement. Plots of CT measurements against published 50th percentile sonographic values for age also showed strong and significant correlations, suggesting that values may be used interchangeably, a conclusion further substantiated by the Bland-Altman analyses. Conclusion: A CT database for fetal long bone length is presented which can be used to evaluate the fetus with abnormal bones. Additionally we have established a strong correlation between measured fetal CT long bone values and the published 50th percentile normal values for US, which allows the interpreting radiologist to extrapolate CT measurements to US values in the evaluation of fetal bone length.
The Akt/mTOR/p70S6K Pathway Is Involved in the Neuroprotective Effect of Erythropoietin on Hypoxic/Ischemic Brain Injury in a Neonatal Rat Model
Authors: Lee Hyun Ju , Koh Seong-Ho , Song Ki-Min , Seol In Joon , Park Hyun-Kyung
Published: April 2016

Background: The mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) signaling pathway is a master regulator of cell growth and proliferation in the nervous system. However, the effects of erythropoietin (EPO) treatment on the mTOR signaling pathway have not been elucidated in neonates with hypoxic/ischemic (H/I) brain injury. Objectives: We investigated the mechanism underlying the neuroprotective effect of EPO by analyzing the mTOR signaling pathway after H/I injury in a neonatal rat model. Methods: Seven-day-old rats were subjected to left carotid artery ligation and hypoxic exposure (8%) for 90 min (H/I). EPO at a dose of either 3,000 U/kg or a vehicle (V) was administered by intraperitoneal injection 0, 24 and 48 h after H/I. At 72 h after H/I (postnatal day 10), 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining, myelin basic protein (MBP) immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis of the Akt/mTOR/p70S6K pathway were performed. Neuromotor behavioral tests included Rotarod challenge and cylinder rearing test 1 performed 3 and 6 weeks after H/I. Results: EPO treatment resulted in significant offsetting of MBP depletion ipsilateral (p = 0.001) and contralateral (p = 0.003) to ligation. Western blot analysis showed that the relative immunoreactivity of phosphorylated (p)-Akt, p-mTOR and p-p70S6K ipsilateral to ligation was significantly decreased in the H/I+V group compared with the sham-operated groups. However, EPO treatment significantly upregulated Akt/mTOR/p70S6K signals ipsilateral to ligation compared to the H/I+V group. The behavior tests showed that EPO attenuates long-term impairment in Rotarod challenge and cylinder test performance from 3-6 weeks. Conclusion: This study demonstrates an underlying mechanism of the mTOR signaling pathway after EPO treatment, which is a potential target for treating H/I-induced brain injury.
Assessment of Adrenal Function and Health-Related Quality of Life in Advanced Gastric Cancer Patients Who Received First-Line Chemotherapy
Authors: Kim Hye Ryun , Kim Jee Hung , Rhee Yumie , Lee Hosun , Song Seung Eun , Kim Chan , Song Sukyung , Noh Sung Hoon , Rha Sun Young
Published: April 2016

Objective: We performed this prospective study to identify both the incidence of adrenal insufficiency (AI) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in advanced gastric cancer (AGC) patients who were treated with the S-1 plus cisplatin (SP) regimen as a first-line palliative chemotherapy. Methods: We assessed adverse events (AEs) observed in 52 patients who received the SP regimen for AGC between January 2009 and June 2010 using the Common Toxicity Criteria Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 3.0. Adrenal function was assessed at baseline and 12 weeks after chemotherapy using the low-dose adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation test. HRQOL was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire version 3.0 (EORTC-QLQ C30). Results: The incidence of AI was 30.8% (n = 16) and of AE observed 55% (n = 29) among 52 patients after 12 weeks of chemotherapy. Of 29 patients with AE, 34.4% (n = 10) were diagnosed with AI, and of 23 patients without AE, 26.1% (n = 6) were diagnosed with AI. Conclusion: The incidence of secondary AI in AGC patients was not rare and was not correlated with the presence of nonspecific AEs. Although patients diagnosed with AI did not show any related symptoms, they are at risk of potentially life-threatening consequences. Thus, the evaluation of AI could be suggested for patients who received chemotherapy.
Prognostic Value of the Pretreatment Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio for Patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors: An Izmir Oncology Group Study
Authors: Salman Tarik , Kazaz Seher Nazli , Varol Umut , Oflazoglu Utku , Unek Ilkay Tugba , Kucukzeybek Yuksel , Alacacioglu Ahmet , Atag Elif , Semiz Huseyin Salih , Cengiz Hakan , Oztop Ilhan , Tarhan Mustafa Oktay
Published: April 2016

Background: Several studies evaluating the prognostic factors of gastrointestinal and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) have been published. The neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been accepted as prognostic factors for cancer patients. Materials and Methods: This study included 132 patients diagnosed with GEP-NETs. Peripheral blood samples were collected before the pretreatment period. Results: NLR and PLR were increased as the grade increased in NETs. The embryonic origin analysis revealed higher NLR and PLR rates in NETs of foregut origin. NLR and PLR were also higher in pancreatic NET patients compared to the gastroenteric NET patients. Analysis of NETs by TNM indicated that an advanced stage was accompanied by significantly higher NLR and PLR. We found a strong negative correlation between progression-free survival and NLR and PLR. Conclusion: The study verified that NLR and PLR are simple laboratory findings that can be used to identify NETs with a worse outcome.
Alectinib-Induced Alopecia in a Patient with Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase-Positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Koizumi Tomonobu , Fukushima Toshirou , Gomi Daisuke , Kobayashi Takashi , Sekiguchi Nodoka , Sakamoto Akiyuki , Sasaki Shigeru , Mamiya Keiko
Published: April 2016

Alectinib, a novel alternative anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor, is highly effective against ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is well tolerated. Molecular targeted agents generally have little contribution to alopecia. We encountered a case of alopecia that developed gradually over 2 months after initiation of alectinib administration for the treatment of ALK-positive NSCLC. The patient had no history of alopecia in previous treatments of cisplatin + pemetrexed and crizotinib. The present case indicates that alopecia should be taken into consideration as toxicity during alectinib treatment, which could adversely affect the psychological and emotional condition and quality of life even in patients treated with specific molecular targeted agents.
The Possibly Reversible Isotretinoin Effect of Decreased Ovarian Reserve in Sprague-Dawley Albinos: Part I, Biochemical Analyses
Authors: Korkmaz Elmas , Cetinkaya Nilufer , Oz Murat , Ozgu Emre , Bas Sevda , Isikalan Mehmet , Buyukkagnici Umran , Caydere Muzaffer , Hucumenoglu Sema , Gungor Tayfun
Published: April 2016

Background: The study aims to determine the detrimental effects of 7.5 mg/kg/day isotretinoin treatment on the anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels in an experimental study to see whether the effects on ovarian reserve are reversible. Methods: Blood was sampled in 16 Sprague-Dawley albinos before any treatment to see baseline AMH levels. Then, the rats were randomly divided into 2 groups. Control group received only 1.0 ml soybean oil per oral for 30 days, whereas the study group received 7.5 mg/kg/day isotretinoin suspended in soybean oil. AMH levels were measured at the 30th day - immediately after the last medication - and on 60th day - 1 month after the last medication. Results: The mean values of AMH levels were 8.16 ± 1.47, 6.95 ± 1.87, 6.27 ± 0.71 and 8.20 ± 1.48, 6.56 ± 1.45, 7.07 ± 0.96 ng/ml before, immediately after and 1 month after the last medication in the control and isotretinoin treatment group, respectively. The mean AMH levels significantly decreased (p = 0.02) immediately after isotretinoin administration. The mean AMH levels 1 month after the last dose of isotretinoin therapy were higher than the levels immediately after the medication; however, the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: This study indicates that exposure to isotretinoin is responsible for decreased AMH levels in experimental rat model and this effect seems to be reversible.
Effect of Cilostazol on Cerebral Vasospasm and Outcome in Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Matsuda Naoya , Naraoka Masato , Ohkuma Hiroki , Shimamura Norihito , Ito Katsuhiro , Asano Kenichiro , Hasegawa Seiko , Takemura Atsuhito
Published: April 2016

Background: Several clinical studies have indicated the efficacy of cilostazol, a selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 3, in preventing cerebral vasospasm after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). They were not double-blinded trial resulting in disunited results on assessment of end points among the studies. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed to assess the effectiveness of cilostazol on cerebral vasospasm. Methods: Patients with aneurysmal SAH admitted within 24 h after the ictus who met the following criteria were enrolled in this study: SAH on CT scan was diffuse thick, diffuse thin, or local thick, Hunt and Hess score was less than 4, administration of cilostazol or placebo could be started within 48 h of SAH. Patients were randomly allocated to placebo or cilostazol after repair of a ruptured saccular aneurysm by aneurysmal neck clipping or endovascular coiling, and the administration of cilostazol or placebo was continued up to 14 days after initiation of treatment. The primary end point was the occurrence of symptomatic vasospasm (sVS), and secondary end points were angiographic vasospasm (aVS) evaluated on digital subtraction angiography, vasospasm-related new cerebral infarction evaluated on CT scan or MRI, and clinical outcome at 3 months of SAH as assessed by Glasgow Outcome Scale, in which poor outcome was defined as severe disability, vegetative state, and death. All end points were evaluated with blinded assessment. Results: One hundred forty eight patients were randomly allocated to the cilostazol group (n = 74) or the control group (n = 74). The occurrence of sVS was significantly lower in the cilostazol group than in the control group (10.8 vs. 24.3%, p = 0.031), and multiple logistic analysis showed that cilostazol use was an independent factor reducing sVS (OR 0.293, 95% CI 0.099-0.568, p = 0.027). The incidence of aVS and vasospasm-related cerebral infarction were not significantly different between the groups. Poor outcome was significantly lower in the cilostazol group than in the control group (5.4 vs. 17.6%, p = 0.011), and multiple logistic analyses demonstrated that cilostazol use was an independent factor that reduced the incidence of poor outcome (OR 0.221, 95% CI 0.054-0.903, p = 0.035). Severe adverse events due to cilostazol administration did not occur during the study period. Conclusions: Cilostazol administration is effective in preventing sVS and improving outcomes without severe adverse events. A larger-scale study including more cases was necessary to confirm this efficacy of cilostazol.
Grey-Matter Metabolism in Relation with White-Matter Lesions in Older Hypertensive Patients with Subjective Memory Complaints: A Pilot Voxel-Based Analysis Study
Authors: Verger Antoine , Hossu Gabriela , Kearney-Schwartz Anna , Bracard Serge , Roch Veronique , Van der Gucht Axel , Fay Renaud , Benetos Athanase , Marie Pierre-Yves , Joly Laure
Published: April 2016

Background: This study aimed at assessing the changes in brain metabolism related to white-matter magnetic resonance (MR) hyperintensities of presumed vascular origin, with a voxel-based quantitative analysis of (18F)-fluorodesoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) imaging. Methods: Sixty older hypertensive patients with subjective memory complaints (75 ± 5 years, 34 women) were prospectively referred to FDG-PET and MRI brain imaging. The Statistical Parametric Mapping software was used to assess the correlation between brain distribution of FDG and white-matter hyperintensities assessed by the Fazekas score on MRI images. Results: The Fazekas score was inversely related to FDG uptake, independently of age and gender, within 14 Brodmann areas located mainly in the frontal lobe but also in certain limbic, insular and temporal areas. This relationship was also found to be largely independent of the volume of grey matter expressed in percentage of cranial volume, an index of atrophy. Conclusions: White-matter MR hyperintensities of presumed vascular origin are cross-sectionally associated with a lower grey-matter metabolism, mainly but not only within frontal areas and independently of age, gender and grey-matter atrophy.
Diagnostic Yield of Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology of Porta Hepatis Lesions: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Jones Krister , Biederman Laura , Draganova-Tacheva Rossitza , Solomides Charalambos , Bibbo Marluce
Published: April 2016

Objective: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) has recently been used for the evaluation of various lesions arising in the porta hepatis. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic yield of this increasingly utilized approach to porta hepatis lesions. Study Design: A retrospective study of 72 consecutive samples of porta hepatis lesions obtained via EUS-FNA between 2004 and 2015 was conducted. Clinical histories and endoscopic findings were available prior to the diagnostic interpretation. The diagnosis of each lesion was based on its cytologic features on smears, its histologic features on cell block, a comparison with any relevant prior specimens, immunohistochemistry and flow cytometric studies when applicable. Results: A total of 72 lesions (59 lymph nodes, 2 cysts and 11 masses) were biopsied in 70 patients. Adequate specimens were obtained in 65/72 cases (90%). Most of the lymph nodes were benign (n = 40, 67%) and most of the masses were malignant or suspicious (n = 8, 73%). A variety of diagnoses, primary and metastatic, were made, including hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma and lymphoma. In addition, we have noted a significant increase in the number of EUS-FNAs in recent years. Conclusion: EUS-FNA is an effective and increasingly utilized diagnostic approach for the evaluation of multiple types of lesions in the porta hepatis.
Effect of the ensiling time of hydrated ground corn on silage composition and in situ starch degradability
Authors: Arcari Marcos André , Martins Cristian Marlon de Magalhães Rodrigues , Tomazi Tiago , Santos Marcos Veiga dos
Published: April 2016

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do tempo de ensilagem sobre a composição química e a degradabilidade in situ do amido do milho moído hidratado (MMH) em grãos de média vitreosidade. Os grãos de milho foram colhidos com 83% de matéria seca (MS) e vitreosidade de 67% ± 3, e foram secos até atingirem 87% de MS. Os grãos foram moídos a dois milímetros, sendo posteriormente reconstituídos, 67% MS, e ensilados (densidade de 880 kg / m³) para até 330 dias. Uma amostra MMH foi coletado mensalmente para a determinação da composição, produtos finais da fermentação e para degradabilidade in situ do amido de milho. O tempo de ensilagem não afetou o teor de MS e proteína bruta (PB). No entanto, a concentração de amido foi reduzido em 2,4 pontos percentuais em comparação de 3 com 330 dias de ensilagem. Foram observados o aumento das concentrações de N-NH3 (8,5 vezes), ácidos láctico (3,45 vezes), acético (4,1 vezes), propionico (1,7 vezes), butírico (2,8 vezes) e álcool (2,4 vezes), durante o período de ensilagem. A fracção rapidamente degradável (fração A) e a taxa de degradação da fracção lentamente degradável (fração C) do amido do MMH foram aumentadas 3,51 e 2,21 vezes, respectivamente, durante o período de ensilagem. Por outro lado, a fração lentamente degradável (fração B) do amido do MMH foi diminuída em 1,93 vezes durante o período de ensilagem. A degradabilidade efetiva do amido do MMH foi aumentado para as taxas de passagem de 0,02 / h (79,9% vs. 94,5%); 0,05 / h (65,9% vs 90,01%) e de 0,08/h (56,98% vs. 86,52%) quando foi comparada o período de 3 vs 330 dias de ensilagem, respectivamente. Em conclusão, o tempo de ensilagem afetou a composição química e aumentou a degradabilidade ruminal do amido do MMH de grãos com média vitreosidade.
INHOTIM: UM JARDIM BOTÂNICO INUSITADO
Authors: Franco Maria De Assunção Ribeiro
Published: April 2016

Em janeiro de 2016 visitei cidades históricas de Minas Gerais, assim como, e com especial interesse em Brumadinho, onde se localiza o Instituto Museu e Jardim Botânico de Inhotim.Às margens do rio Paraopeba, ao sul da Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte (BH) está o Instituto Inhotim. Trata-se de uma propriedade particular com área de visitação de 140 hectares, que abriga um jardim botânico e um museu de arte contemporânea. O museu nega todas as regras daqueles convencionais e distribui­se em vários pavilhões espalhados pela propriedade, ambientados pela bela e misteriosa paisagem local que, quase invariavelmente, desperta em meio de uma cortina de bruma, a qual só se dissipa por volta do meio dia.
UM PROJETO DE INFRAESTRUTURA VERDE PARA O MERCADÃO
Authors: Franco Maria De Assunção Ribeiro , Pellegrino Paulo Renato Mesquita
Published: April 2016

Em setembro de 2015 a Globo contactou três escolas de arquitetura: FAU USP, Escola da Cidade e FAU Mackenzie para participar do DESAFIO VERDEJANDO, uma das ações do Projeto Verdejando, dentro do Programa Globo Universidades. O projeto consistiu no acompanhamento televisivo do processo de projeto das 3 escolas, em uma série de reportagens especiais, sobre a questão do verde em São Paulo. Foi o terceiro ano que a série foi ao ar, nos telejornais locais de São Paulo, com a novidade da participação de equipes universitárias na discussão da questão da escassez do verde e seu impacto nas mudanças do clima urbano e apresentar propostas de possíveis intervenções, no combate aos efeitos desses fenômenos.  O LABVERDE - Laboratório Verde -  foi  indicado  como representando a FAU USP em meio às outras 2 escolas. Assim, cada escola escolheu uma área em São Paulo como tema para estudo e proposições de cenários futuros.
ANÁLISE DOS SERVIÇOS ECOSSISTÊMICOS DE UM ESPAÇO VERDE NO MUNICÍPIO DE VOLTA REDONDA – RJ
Authors: Setta Bruno Rocha Silva
Published: April 2016

A degradação dos ecossistemas naturais, impulsionada pela urbanização desenfreada e pela falta de planejamento em séculos passados, provocou sérios impactos ambientais à saúde pública e ao meio ambiente. Os serviços ecossistêmicos, que são os benefícios diretos e indiretos obtidos pelo homem a partir do funcionamento dos ecossistemas, foram afetados e tornaram as cidades, de maneira geral, ecossistemas de baixa resiliência e, consequentemente, de baixa qualidade de vida. Hoje, há uma crescente preocupação com as interconexões entre o estado dos ecossistemas naturais e o bem-estar das populações humanas, onde os planejadores e autoridades buscam por alternativas que não ou pouco interferem nos fluxos naturais. Com base nisto, este trabalho analisa e descreve as inter-relações entre os serviços ecossistêmicos e o bem-estar humano, e propõe diretrizes paisagísticas alternativas para os problemas ambientais encontrados em um espaço verde no município de Volta Redonda, localizado no sul do Estado do Rio de Janeiro.
Outcomes Following Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients With Previous Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Iqbal Javaid , Kwok Chun Shing , Kontopantelis Evangelos , de Belder Mark A. , Ludman Peter F. , Giannoudi Marilena , Gunning Mark , Zaman Azfar , Mamas Mamas A.
Published: April 2016

Background—

There are limited data on outcomes of patients with previous coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) presenting with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). We report outcomes in patients with STEMI undergoing PPCI with or without previous CABG surgery in a large real-world, all-comer population.

Methods and Results—

Clinical, demographic, procedural, and outcomes data were collected for all patients undergoing PPCI in England and Wales from January 2007 to December 2012. All-cause mortality at 30 days and 1 year were evaluated in the whole and a propensity-matched cohort. Of 79 295 patients with STEMI studied, 2658 (3.4%) patients had prior CABG, of whom 44% (n=1168) underwent PPCI to native vessels and 56% (n=1490) to bypass grafts. There were significant differences in the demographic, clinical, and procedural characteristics of these groups. Patients with prior CABG (with primary PCI to native artery or graft) had higher mortality at 30 days (6.2% with PPCI to native artery, 6.1% with PPCI to bypass graft) than patients with no prior CABG (4.5%;
P
<0.001). However, after risk factor adjustments, there was no significant difference in outcomes. There were also no significant differences in 30-day mortality, in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events, in-hospital stroke, and in-hospital bleeding in the propensity-matched population.

Conclusions—

A prior history of CABG in patients presenting with STEMI and undergoing PPCI does not independently confer additional risk of mortality, although it is a marker of other high-risk features.
Novel Sirolimus–Coated Balloon Catheter
Authors: Clever Yvonne Patricia , Peters Daniel , Calisse Jorge , Bettink Stephanie , Berg Madeleine-Caroline , Sperling Christian , Stoever Michael , Cremers Bodo , Kelsch Bettina , Böhm Michael , Speck Ulrich , Scheller Bruno
Published: April 2016

Background—

Limus-eluting stents are dominating coronary interventions, although paclitaxel is the only drug on balloon catheters with proven inhibition of restenosis. Neointimal inhibition by limus-coated balloons has been shown in few animal studies, but data from randomized clinical trials are not available. The aim of the present preclinical studies was to achieve high and persistent sirolimus levels in the vessel wall after administration by a coated balloon.

Methods and Results—

Different coating formulations and doses were studied in the porcine coronary model to investigate sirolimus tissue levels at different time points as well as efficacy at 1 month using quantitative coronary angiography and histomorphometry. Loss of the selected coating in the valve, guiding catheter, and blood was low (2±14% of dose). Acute drug transfer to the vessel wall was 14.4±4.6% with the crystalline coating, whereas the amorphous coatings were less effective in this respect. Persistence of sirolimus in the vessel wall until 1 month was 40% to 50% of the transferred drug. At 1-month follow-up, a modest but significant reduction of neointimal growth was demonstrated in a dose range from 4 μg/mm
2
to 2×7 μg/mm
2
, for example, maximum neointimal thickness of 0.38±0.13 versus 0.65±0.21 mm in the uncoated control group.

Conclusions—

Various sirolimus-coated balloons effectively reduce neointimal proliferation in the porcine coronary model but differ considerably in retention time in the vessel wall. It has to be determined if such a formulation with persistent high vessel concentration will result in a relevant clinical effect.
Mitochondrial Cyclophilin D in Vascular Oxidative Stress and Hypertension
Authors: Itani Hana A. , Dikalova Anna E. , McMaster William G. , Nazarewicz Rafal R. , Bikineyeva Alfiya T. , Harrison David G. , Dikalov Sergey I.
Published: April 2016

Vascular superoxide (O˙
2
-
) and inflammation contribute to hypertension. The mitochondria are an important source of O˙
2
-
; however, the regulation of mitochondrial O˙
2
-
and the antihypertensive potential of targeting the mitochondria remain poorly defined. Angiotensin II and inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin 17A and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) significantly contribute to hypertension. We hypothesized that angiotensin II and cytokines co-operatively induce cyclophilin D (CypD)–dependent mitochondrial O˙
2
-
production in hypertension. We tested whether CypD inhibition attenuates endothelial oxidative stress and reduces hypertension. CypD depletion in CypD
−/−
mice prevents overproduction of mitochondrial O˙
2
-
in angiotensin II–infused mice, attenuates hypertension by 20 mm Hg, and improves vascular relaxation compared with wild-type C57Bl/6J mice. Treatment of hypertensive mice with the specific CypD inhibitor Sanglifehrin A reduces blood pressure by 28 mm Hg, inhibits production of mitochondrial O˙
2
-
by 40%, and improves vascular relaxation. Angiotensin II–induced hypertension was associated with CypD redox activation by S-glutathionylation, and expression of the mitochondria-targeted H
2
O
2
scavenger, catalase, abolished CypD S-glutathionylation, prevented stimulation mitochondrial O˙
2
-
, and attenuated hypertension. The functional role of cytokine–angiotensin II interplay was confirmed by co-operative stimulation of mitochondrial O˙
2
-
by 3-fold in cultured endothelial cells and impairment of aortic relaxation incubated with combination of angiotensin II, interleukin 17A, and tumor necrosis factor-α which was prevented by CypD depletion or expression of mitochondria-targeted SOD2 and catalase. These data support a novel role of CypD in hypertension and demonstrate that targeting CypD decreases mitochondrial O˙
2
-
, improves vascular relaxation, and reduces hypertension.
Returns to Teacher Experience: Student Achievement and Motivation in Middle School
Authors: Ladd Helen F. , Sorensen Lucy C.
Published: April 2016

We use rich longitudinally matched administrative data on students and teachers in North Carolina to examine the patterns of differential effectiveness by teachers’ years of experience. The paper contributes to the literature by focusing on middle school teachers and by extending the analysis to student outcomes beyond test scores. Once we control statistically for the quality of individual teachers using teacher fixed effects, we find large returns to experience for middle school teachers in the form both of higher test scores and improvements in student behavior, with the clearest behavioral effects emerging for reductions in student absenteeism. Moreover these returns extend well beyond the first few years of teaching. The paper contributes to policy debates by documenting that teachers can and do continue to learn on the job.
The Effect of Gender Quotas in the First Decade of the Twenty-first Century: A Global Comparison
Authors: Högström John
Published: April 2016

The goal of this study is to examine to what extent gender quotas have contributed to recent increases in women’s representation in parliaments. The results show that the effect of quotas on women’s representation in parliaments increased over time during the first decade of the twenty-first century, and that in the mid and late parts of the decade quotas are an important determinant of women’s representation in parliaments. However, the results from this study demonstrate that several countries that use gender quotas still have low levels of female representation in parliaments, which indicates that the designs of the quotas are important.
‘Beware: Boundary Crossings’ – A Critical Appraisal of Public Law Approaches to International Investment Law
Authors: Alvarez José E.
Published: April 2016

This article addresses the tools by which international lawyers engage in interpretative ‘boundary crossings’ across distinct international regimes, such as those involving trade, investment, and human rights. It distinguishes the traditional tools of treaty interpretation, such as those licensed by the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT), that encourage interactions between trade and international investment law (such as the VCLT’s Article 31(3)(c), from some more innovative interpretations now proposed by self-identified ‘public law’ scholars. Drawing on examples of boundary crossings pursued recently by investor-state arbitrators and the International Law Commission, it warns against interpretative boundary crossings that go against the object and purpose, remedies or organizational structures of the underlying regimes. It argues that such interpretative linkages, however well-meaning, may not be as ‘progressive’ as anticipated.
A new jumping spider of the genus Stenaelurillus Simon, 1886 from India (Araneae: Salticidae: Aelurillina)
Authors: CALEB JOHN T.D. , MATHAI MANU THOMAS
Published: April 2016

The genus Stenaelurillus Simon, 1886 is known from 35 species worldwide, including 27 species from Africa and eight from Asia (four species known from India, one from Iran, one from China, one from Tibet and one from Vietnam) (World Spider Catalog 2016). The four species known from India are S. albus Sebastian et al., 2015, S. jagannathae Das, Malik & Vidhel, 2015, S. lesserti Reimoser, 1934 and S. sarojinae Caleb & Mathai, 2014 (Prószyński 2015; World Spider Catalog 2016). The present paper contains description of Stenaelurillus metallicus sp. nov., discovered from scrub jungle remnants of tropical dry evergreen forests, a unique habitat found in Madras Christian College campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Taxonomic notes on the genus Auranus (Opiliones, Laniatores, Stygnidae), with description of two new species
Authors: COLMENARES PÍO A. , PORTO WILLIANS , TOURINHO ANA LÚCIA
Published: April 2016

Among the Amazonian families of harvestmen the members of Stygnidae are better known due to the recent revision of the family and efforts of specialists describing new taxa in the last few years. Species of Amazonian genus Auranus Mello-Leitão, 1941, have been collected in several inventories that were carried out in different locations of the Amazon basin. In this paper we provide a new diagnosis for Auranus, and the description of two new species: Auranus leonidas sp. nov. and Auranus xerxes sp. nov. from the Brazilian states of Roraima and Amazonas, respectively. We also offer complementary genital descriptions of Auranus hehu Pinto-da-Rocha & Tourinho 2012, Auranus parvus Mello-Leitão, 1941, and Auranus tepui Pinto-da-Rocha & Tourinho 2012. Five species are recognized in Auranus, including the two new species described in this paper. The lamina parva modified into a calyx is proposed as putative synapomorphy for the genus Auranus. Therefore, A. hoeferscovitorum, which does not possess this character, is removed from Auranus. Instead we propose for it the new combination Verrucastygnus hoeferscovitorum comb. nov. We also provide a key to the males of Auranus, and a map with the distribution for all species examined in this work.
The phylogenetic relationships of a new Stream Toad of the genus Ansonia Stoliczka, 1870 (Anura: Bufonidae) from a montane region in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: DAVIS HAYDEN R. , GRISMER L. LEE , KLABACKA RANDY L. , MUIN MOHD ABDUL , QUAH EVAN S.H. , ANUAR SHAHRUL , WOOD PERRY L.  JR. , SITES JACK W.
Published: April 2016

Twelve species of Ansonia occur on the Thai-Malay peninsula, of which, five from Peninsular Malaysia, form a monophyletic group. One of these, A. jeetsukumarani, is endemic to the Titiwangsa Mountain Range, in which, we discovered a new population of Ansonia that is not A. jeetsukumarani or even its closest relative. Based on morphology, color pattern, and molecular phylogenetic analyses using the mitochondrial genes 12s and 16s rRNA, we have determined that this new species, A. smeagol sp. nov., forms the sister lineage to an upland, monophyletic group composed of A. jeetsukumarani, A. lumut, A. malayana, and A. penangensis. We have noted similar biogeographic patterns in other taxa from the Titiwangsa Mountain Range in a number of upland lineages in Peninsular Malaysia. We hypothesize that the phylogeographic structure of these upland populations is a result of stochastic processes stemming from interaction of climate-driven forest dynamics and life histories.
Synoptic Classes as a Predictor of Hourly Surface Wind Regimes: The Case of the Central and Southern Israeli Coastal Plains
Authors: Berkovic Sigalit
Published: April 2016

This work considers whether it is possible to use semiobjective synoptic classes as a year-round predictor of hourly surface winds in Israel. Previous literature has quantitatively characterized the hourly surface flow during the summer under a single synoptic group—the Persian trough—but no quantitative verification has been made for the other seasons. This study undertook a statistical characterization of the surface winds under frequent synoptic classes. The calculated statistical parameters were averages, standard deviations, steadiness, and statistical significance, determined using measurements from 12 weather stations of the Israel Meteorological Service. High steadiness of the surface wind field was found for a significant number of hours. The verification of the characterization at 0000 UTC by two calculations, the first according to the class defined at the previous 1200 UTC and the second according to the next 1200 UTC, showed similar results. Therefore, the synoptic class can be used as a predictor of hourly surface winds during the entire year. These statistical results provide an automatic prediction of the hourly surface wind average and standard deviation according to synoptic class. They may aid in risk assessment or statistical downscaling of seasonal or monthly winds. Such applications can be employed in other parts of Israel. Typical values for hours at which steady flow was obtained are as follows: steadiness > 0.65, wind direction standard deviation < 60°, wind speed standard deviation of 1–2 m s−1, and sector direction widths of 50°–150°, within 70% statistical significance.
Stratospheric Temperature Trends over 1979–2015 Derived from Combined SSU, MLS, and SABER Satellite Observations
Authors: Randel William J. , Smith Anne K. , Wu Fei , Zou Cheng-Zhi , Qian Haifeng
Published: April 2016

Temperature trends in the middle and upper stratosphere are evaluated using measurements from the Stratospheric Sounding Unit (SSU), combined with data from the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) and Sounding of the Atmosphere Using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) instruments. Data from MLS and SABER are vertically integrated to approximate the SSU weighting functions and combined with SSU to provide a data record spanning 1979–2015. Vertical integrals are calculated using empirically derived Gaussian weighting functions, which provide improved agreement with high-latitude SSU measurements compared to previously derived weighting functions. These merged SSU data are used to evaluate decadal-scale trends, solar cycle variations, and volcanic effects from the lower to the upper stratosphere. Episodic warming is observed following the volcanic eruptions of El Chichón (1982) and Mt. Pinatubo (1991), focused in the tropics in the lower stratosphere and in high latitudes in the middle and upper stratosphere. Solar cycle variations are centered in the tropics, increasing in amplitude from the lower to the upper stratosphere. Linear trends over 1979–2015 show that cooling increases with altitude from the lower stratosphere (from ~−0.1 to −0.2 K decade−1) to the middle and upper stratosphere (from ~−0.5 to −0.6 K decade−1). Cooling in the middle and upper stratosphere is relatively uniform in latitudes north of about 30°S, but trends decrease to near zero over the Antarctic. Mid- and upper-stratospheric temperatures show larger cooling over the first half of the data record (1979–97) compared to the second half (1998–2015), reflecting differences in upper-stratospheric ozone trends between these periods.
Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis
Authors: Zaghi Soroush , Alonso Jose , Orestes Michael , Kadin Natalie , Hsu William , Berke Gerald
Published: April 2016

Objective:

To assess the size of the cervical and thoracic trachea among female patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis (SGS).

Methods:

Computed tomography (CT) scans of neck/chest from female patients with idiopathic SGS (n = 7) and normal controls (n = 30) were analyzed. Only female patients were included. The diameter and cross-sectional area of the trachea were measured at the level of the subglottic larynx, mid-cervical trachea, and mid-thoracic trachea. Measurements of tracheal size were compared between groups.

Results:

Patients with idiopathic SGS were found to have a significantly smaller cross-sectional area throughout the course of the cervical and thoracic trachea as compared to normal controls.

Conclusions:

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis is a rare but distinct subclass of subglottic stenosis characterized by smaller cross-sectional area throughout the course of the subglottic, cervical, and thoracic trachea.

Level of Evidence:

3b: Individual case-control study
Trichloroacetic Acid Chemocauterization
Authors: Kim Min-Su , Lim Jae Hyun , Jin Young Ju , Jang Jeong Hun , Hah J. Hun
Published: April 2016

Objectives:

To evaluate the effectiveness of chemocauterization using trichloroacetic acid with or without suturing for the small tracheocutaneous fistula closure

Methods:

The Seoul National University Hospital database was analyzed retrospectively for 55 patients with a small tracheocutaneous fistula measuring less than 5 × 5 mm2. Of these, 39 patients were treated by chemocauterization only, and 16 patients were treated by chemocauterization with suturing. Demographic, perioperative data, and treatment outcomes were evaluated for all patients.

Results:

The success rate of single trial was 56.4% (31/55), and the final success rate after repeated procedures if indicated was 80.0% (44/55). There were no statistically significant differences in age, sex, cannulation period, fistula size, presence or absence of maturation suture during tracheostomy, number of procedures, and success rates. Interval between decannulation and procedure was significantly different among 2 groups.

Conclusions:

Trichloroacetic acid chemocauterization could be a simple, noninvasive, and safe method to close small tracheocutaneous fistula.
Otopathologic Findings of Pena-Shokeir Syndrome Type I
Authors: Kaya Serdar , Kaya Fatıma Kübra , Hızlı Ömer , Paparella Michael M. , Cureoglu Sebahattin
Published: April 2016

Background:

Pena-Shokeir syndrome type I is a rare genetic disorder that includes multiple congenital facial and joint anomalies as well as pulmonary hypoplasia. Affected infants are usually premature, and 30% of them are stillborn. So far, studies have reported low-set ears in such infants, with no middle or inner ear findings.

Method:

Histopathological study of human temporal bones with Pena-Shokeir syndrome type I.

Results:

Our case report describes an infant with severely decreased number of spiral ganglion cells and number of outer and inner hair cells of the cochlea, mild loss of vestibular hair cells, hypoplasia in the facial nerves, and ischemic degeneration of Schwann cells in the modiolus.

Conclusion:

Pena-Shokeir syndrome type I is associated with a degenerative process in the labyrinth.
Association between childhood dimensions of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and adulthood clinical severity of bipolar disorders
Authors: Etain Bruno , Lajnef M , Loftus J , Henry C , Raust A , Gard S , Kahn JP , Leboyer M , Scott J , Bellivier F
Published: April 2016

Background:

Clinical features of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be frequently observed in cases with bipolar disorders and associated with greater severity of bipolar disorders. Although designed as a screening tool for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the Wender Utah Rating Scale could, given its factorial structure, be useful in investigating the early history of impulsive, inattentive or mood-related symptoms among patients with bipolar disorders.

Methods:

We rated the Wender Utah Rating Scale in 276 adult bipolar disorder cases and 228 healthy controls and tested its factorial structure and any associations with bipolar disorder phenomenology.

Results:

We confirmed a three-factor structure for the Wender Utah Rating Scale (‘ impulsivity/temper’, ‘ inattentiveness’ and ‘ mood/self-esteem’). Cases and controls differed significantly on Wender Utah Rating Scale total score and sub-scale scores ( p-values < 10−5). About 23% of bipolar disorder cases versus 5% of controls were classified as ‘ WURS positive’ (odds ratio = 5.21 [2.73–9.95]). In bipolar disorders, higher Wender Utah Rating Scale score was associated with earlier age at onset, severity of suicidal behaviors and polysubstance misuse; multivariate analyses, controlling for age and gender, confirmed the associations with age at onset ( p = 0.001) and alcohol and substance misuse ( p = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Adults with bipolar disorders who reported higher levels of childhood symptoms on the Wender Utah Rating Scale presented a more severe expression of bipolar disorders in terms of age at onset and comorbidity. The Wender Utah Rating Scale could be employed to screen for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder but also for ‘ at-risk behaviors’ in adult bipolar disorder cases and possibly for prodromal signs of early onset in high-risk subjects.
Occipital bending in schizophrenia
Authors: Maller Jerome J , Anderson Rodney J , Thomson Richard H , Daskalakis Zafiris J , Rosenfeld Jeffrey V , Fitzgerald Paul B
Published: April 2016

Objective:

To investigate the prevalence of occipital bending (an occipital lobe crossing or twisting across the midline) in subjects with schizophrenia and matched healthy controls.

Method:

Occipital bending prevalence was investigated in 37 patients with schizophrenia and 44 healthy controls.

Results:

Ratings showed that prevalence was nearly three times higher among schizophrenia patients (13/37 [35.1%]) than in control subjects (6/44 [13.6%]). Furthermore, those with schizophrenia had greater normalized gray matter volume but less white matter volume and had larger brain-to-cranial ratio.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that occipital bending is more prevalent among schizophrenia patients than healthy subjects and that schizophrenia patients have different gray matter–white matter proportions. Although the cause and clinical ramifications of occipital bending are unclear, the results infer that occipital bending may be a marker of psychiatric illness.
Collective Experience of Political Violence as Identity
Authors: Omori Hisako
Published: April 2016

At the beginning of the Second World War, the Canadian government forcibly removed Canadians of Japanese ancestry from their homes in British Columbia. During and immediately following their internment, many Japanese Canadians converted to Christianity. Drawing upon ethnographic fieldwork among aging Japanese Canadians, this article contextualizes the wartime conversion to Christianity in the wider sociocultural milieu of the 1940s. Discussing contemporary participation of Japanese Canadians in both Buddhist and Christian services in a long-term care facility, this paper suggests that the radical segregation and racialization of this group during wartime gave rise to a collective identity of Japanese Canadians irrespective of their religious affiliation.
Manifestations de la soft law en droit français des religions
Authors: Curtit Françoise , Fornerod Anne
Published: April 2016

The legal framework applicable to religions is composed of many infra-administrative regulations and shaped by the adaptation of old legislative norms to the contemporary context. The result is that law and religion fall within the scope of a certain conception of soft law, such as resorting to negotiation in the margins of legislative texts. The issue of religious heritage perfectly illustrates the process, which consists in building and updating a legal status according to the historical, social and political circumstances. The enhancement of religious heritage in particular rests on mechanisms typical of soft law.