bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring China’s Arctic Strategy: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Yilmaz Serafettin
Published: March 2017

China’s understanding of the Arctic covers two major dimensions. One is that the Arctic is an international sphere, and the other is that China should be regarded as a “near Arctic state.” Based on such understanding, China’s Arctic policy has been evolving along a variety of considerations, such as securing investment and resources, pursuing sea-lanes of communication and trade, and facilitating strategic reach and power projection. China seeks to increase its strengths by carrying forward its own national initiatives including scientific research, trade and investment, and power projection, as well as through participation in bilateral and multilateral cooperation and collaboration schemes. As China views the Arctic from the perspectives of both low and high politics, it is anticipated that China will be further engaged in Arctic affairs with a conceptually and materially sound Arctic strategy, under which a closer partnership with Arctic states, especially Russia, is a necessary step.
Open information extraction
Authors: Vo Duc-Thuan , Bagheri Ebrahim
Published: March 2017

Open information extraction (Open IE) systems aim to obtain relation tuples with highly scalable extraction in portable across domain by identifying a variety of relation phrases and their arguments in arbitrary sentences. The first generation of Open IE learns linear chain models based on unlexicalized features such as Part-of-Speech (POS) or shallow tags to label the intermediate words between pair of potential arguments for identifying extractable relations. Open IE currently is developed in the second generation that is able to extract instances of the most frequently observed relation types such as Verb, Noun and Prep, Verb and Prep, and Infinitive with deep linguistic analysis. They expose simple yet principled ways in which verbs express relationships in linguistics such as verb phrase-based extraction or clause-based extraction. They obtain a significantly higher performance over previous systems in the first generation. In this paper, we describe an overview of two Open IE generations including strengths, weaknesses and application areas.
GLiM: Generalized linear models
Authors: Barr Joseph R. , Zacks Shelemyahu
Published: March 2017

Much was written on generalized linear models. The reader is referred to the following books: P. McCullagh and J. A. Nelder, Generalized Linear Models, 2nd edn. (Chapman & Hall, 1989); A. J. Dobson and A. Barnett, An Introduction to Generalized Linear Models, 3 (Chapman & Hall, 2008); C. E. McCulloch and S. R. Searle, Generalized Linear and Mixed Models (2008); R. H. Myers and D. C. Montgomery, Generalized Linear Models: With Applications in Engineering and the Sciences (2010); A. Agresti, Foundations of Linear Generalized Linear Models, Wiley series in probability and statistics (Wiley, New York, 2015); J. J. Faraway, Linear Models with R, 2nd edn. (Chapman & Hall, 2014). We present here the main ideas.
Sensors on the brain
Authors: Mone Gregory
Published: March 2017

Implantable wireless monitors give researchers a new look inside the human body.
Digitizing the world
Authors: Edwards Chris
Published: March 2017

Digital maps trawl for real-time updates.
Evaluation of Connexin 43 Redistribution and Endocytosis in Astrocytes Subjected to Ischemia/Reperfusion or Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation and Reoxygenation
Authors: Xie Hongyan , Cui Yu , Hou Shuai , Wang Juan , Miao Jing , Deng Fang , Feng Jiachun
Published: March 2017

Connexin 43 (Cx43) is the major component protein in astrocytic gap junction communication. Recent studies have shown the cellular processes of gap junction internalization and degradation, but many details remain unknown. This study investigated the distribution of Cx43 and its mechanism after ischemic insult. Astrocyte culture system and a model of ischemia/reperfusion (IR) or oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGDR) were established. Cx43 distribution was observed by laser scanning confocal microscopy under different cultivation conditions. Western blot and RT-PCR assays were applied to quantify Cx43 and MAPRE1 (microtubule-associated protein RP/EB family member 1) expression at different time points. The total number of Cx43 was unchanged in the normal and IR/OGDR groups, but Cx43 particles in the cytoplasm of the IR/OGDR group were significantly greater than that of the normal group. Particles in the cytoplasm were significantly fewer after endocytosis was blocked by dynasore. There was no difference among the groups at each time point regarding protein or gene expression of MAPRE1. We concluded that internalization of Cx43 into the cytoplasm occurred during ischemia, which was partially mediated through endocytosis, not by the change of Cx43 quantity. Moreover, internalization was not related to microtubule transport.
High Mammographic Density in Long-Term Night-Shift Workers: DDM-Spain/Var-DDM
Authors: Pedraza-Flechas Ana María , Lope Virginia , Sánchez-Contador Carmen , Santamariña Carmen , Pedraz-Pingarrón Carmen , Moreo Pilar , Ederra María , Miranda-García Josefa , Vidal Carmen , Llobet Rafael , Aragonés Nuria , Salas-Trejo Dolores , Pollán Marina , Pérez-Gómez Beatriz
Published: March 2017

Background: Night-shift work (NSW) has been suggested as a possible cause of breast cancer, and its association with mammographic density (MD), one of the strongest risk factors for breast cancer, has been scarcely addressed. This study examined NSW and MD in Spanish women.

Methods: The study covered 2,752 women aged 45–68 years recruited in 2007–2008 in 7 population-based public breast cancer screening centers, which included 243 women who had performed NSW for at least one year. Occupational data and information on potential confounders were collected by personal interview. Two trained radiologist estimated the percentage of MD assisted by a validated semiautomatic computer tool (DM-scan). Multivariable mixed linear regression models with random screening center–specific intercepts were fitted using log-transformed percentage of MD as the dependent variable and adjusting by known confounding variables.

Results: Having ever worked in NSW was not associated with MD [{e^\beta }$:0.96; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.86–1.06]. However, the adjusted geometric mean of the percentage of MD in women with NSW for more than 15 years was 25% higher than that of those without NSW history (MD>15 years:20.7% vs. MDnever:16.5%;{e^\beta }$:1.25; 95% CI,1.01–1.54). This association was mainly observed in postmenopausal participants ({e^\beta }$:1.28; 95% CI, 1.00–1.64). Among NSW-exposed women, those with ≤2 night-shifts per week had higher MD than those with 5 to 7 nightshifts per week ({e^\beta }$:1.42; 95% CI, 1.10–1.84).

Conclusions: Performing NSW was associated with higher MD only in women with more than 15 years of cumulated exposure. These findings warrant replication in futures studies.

Impact: Our findings suggest that MD could play a role in the pathway between long-term NSW and breast cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(6); 905–13. ©2017 AACR.
Potent Dual BET Bromodomain-Kinase Inhibitors as Value-Added Multitargeted Chemical Probes and Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Ember Stuart W. , Lambert Que T. , Berndt Norbert , Gunawan Steven , Ayaz Muhammad , Tauro Marilena , Zhu Jin-Yi , Cranfill Paula J. , Greninger Patricia , Lynch Conor C. , Benes Cyril H. , Lawrence Harshani R. , Reuther Gary W. , Lawrence Nicholas J. , Schönbrunn Ernst
Published: March 2017

Synergistic action of kinase and BET bromodomain inhibitors in cell killing has been reported for a variety of cancers. Using the chemical scaffold of the JAK2 inhibitor TG101348, we developed and characterized single agents which potently and simultaneously inhibit BRD4 and a specific set of oncogenic tyrosine kinases including JAK2, FLT3, RET, and ROS1. Lead compounds showed on-target inhibition in several blood cancer cell lines and were highly efficacious at inhibiting the growth of hematopoietic progenitor cells from patients with myeloproliferative neoplasm. Screening across 931 cancer cell lines revealed differential growth inhibitory potential with highest activity against bone and blood cancers and greatly enhanced activity over the single BET inhibitor JQ1. Gene drug sensitivity analyses and drug combination studies indicate synergism of BRD4 and kinase inhibition as a plausible reason for the superior potency in cell killing. Combined, our findings indicate promising potential of these agents as novel chemical probes and cancer therapeutics. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(6); 1054–67. ©2017 AACR.
Zusätzlicher Nutzen von Necitumumab bei Chemotherapie mit Gemcitabin und Cisplatin?
Authors: Reinmuth Niels
Published: March 2017

Hintergrund: In der SQUIRE-Studie konnte durch das Hinzufügen von Necitumumab, einem IgG1-Antikörper gegen den epidermalen Wachstumsfaktor-Rezeptor (EGFR), zur Erstlinientherapie mit Gemcitabin und Cisplatin (GC+N) bei fortgeschrittenem nicht-kleinzelligem Plattenepithelkarzinom der Lunge (squamous non-small-cell lung cancer; sqNSCLC) das Gesamtüberleben (OS) signifikant verbessert werden; das Sicherheitsprofil war akzeptabel. Wir untersuchten Daten für die deutsche Subpopulation (N = 96) von SQUIRE-Patienten mit EGFR-exprimierenden Tumoren. Patienten und Methoden: Patienten mit sqNSCLC im Stadium IV wurden im Verhältnis 1:1 randomisiert auf bis zu 6 Zyklen von offenem GC+N oder GC allein. GC+N-Patienten ohne Progression erhielten anschließend eine Necitumumab-Monotherapie bis zur Krankheitsprogression oder einer inakzeptablen Toxizität. Der primäre Endpunkt war OS; zu den sekundären Endpunkten gehörten progressionsfreies Überleben (PFS), Sicherheit und gesundheitsbezogene Lebensqualität (EQ-5D, Lung Cancer Symptom Scale; LCSS). Ergebnisse: Die 96 deutschen SQUIRE-Patienten mit EGFR-exprimierenden Tumoren (GC+N: 42; GC: 54) erhielten im Median 4 GC-Zyklen; die GC+N-Patienten erhielten 5 Zyklen Necitumumab. Die zusätzliche Gabe von Necitumumab war mit einer Reduktion des Mortalitätsrisikos um 41% (Hazard Ratio (HR): 0,59, 95%-Konfidenzintervall (KI) 0,37-0,94%, p = 0,026) assoziiert sowie mit einer Reduktion des Progressionsrisikos um 44% (HR: 0,56, 95%-KI 0,33-0,95%, p = 0,029). Die unerwünschten Ereignisse, die typischerweise mit einer EGFR-Antikörper-Behandlung einhergehen (u.a. Hautausschlag, Hypomagnesiämie), kamen bei GC+N häufiger vor. Im Zeitraum bis zur Verschlechterung der EQ-5D- und LCSS-Scores gab es keine nennenswerten Unterschiede zwischen den Behandlungsarmen, mit Ausnahme des Appetitverlusts (verzögert bei GC+N). Schlussfolgerung: Der Überlebensvorteil durch das Hinzufügen von Necitumumab zu Erstlinien-GC war in der deutschen SQUIRE-Subpopulation mit EGFR-exprimierenden Tumoren stärker ausgeprägt als in der Gesamtpopulation (Intention-to-treat-Population); die Toxizität war beherrschbar und entsprach der in der Gesamtpopulation.
Neue Studien und ein gesteigertes Bewusstsein für Brustkrebs bei Männern sind notwendig
Authors: Reinhardt Florian , Fehm Tanja
Published: March 2017

Hintergrund: Das duktale Carcinoma in situ der männlichen Brust ist eine seltene Läsion, die sehr häufig invasiv ist. In den seltenen Fällen, in denen die In-situ-Komponente in reiner Form vorliegt, ist der histologische Grad fast immer niedrig bis moderat. Die Bildgebung ist bei diesen Patienten schwierig, da oft eine Gynäkomastie vorliegt, die die zugrunde liegenden Verkalkungen oder Karzinome überdecken kann. Fallbericht: Wir berichten über den Fall eines reinen hochgradigen duktalen Carcinoma in situ der männlichen Brust bei einem Patienten mit klaren Absonderungen aus der Brustwarze. Die mammographische Untersuchung der Brust zeigte eine bilaterale Gynäkomastie und gutartige Verkalkungen. Der anschließende Brustultraschall zeigte dilatierte Milchgänge der linken Brust, und ein Duktogramm der linken Brust ergab Füllungsdefekte, die auf ein Papillom hindeuteten. Die Exzisionsbiopsie und die anschließende Mastektomie standen im Einklang mit dem hochgradigen duktalen Carcinoma in situ. Schlussfolgerung: Das Mammakarzinom des Mannes kommt selten vor und, obwohl das Bewusstsein dafür zunimmt, wird in geringerem Umfang erforscht als der Brustkrebs der Frau. Wenn es in der klinischen Vorgeschichte Absonderungen der Brustwarze jeglicher Art gibt, sollte eine weitere Untersuchung mit Bildgebung in Betracht gezogen werden. Bei Männern mit Gynäkomastie ist unbedingt zu bedenken, dass ein duktales Carcinoma in situ - selbst ein hochgradiges - in der Mammographie schwer zu erkennen und möglicherweise nicht mit verdächtigen Verkalkungen assoziiert ist.
Überlebensvorteil durch Primärtumorresektion bei metastasiertem Kolorektalkarzinom?
Authors: Lorenzen Sylvie
Published: March 2017

Hintergrund: Die Wirkung der Primärtumorresektion (PTR) bei Patienten mit metastasiertem Kolorektalkarzinom (mCRC) bleibt umstritten. Eine Kombinationschemotherapie mit Bevacizumab könnte die klinischen Ergebnisse dieser Patienten verbessern, was die Bedeutung der PTR in multidisziplinären Behandlungsregimes verändern könnte. Methoden: Wir führten eine nicht randomisierte, prospektive, kontrollierte Studie mit mCRC-Patienten durch, deren Performance-Status (PS) ≤2 betrug und die als Erstlinientherapie eine Bevacizumab-Kombinationschemotherapie (FOLFOX/XELOX/FOLFIRI) erhielten. Diese Patienten wurden der PTR-Gruppe bzw. der IPT-Gruppe (IPT = intakter Primärtumor) zugeordnet, abhängig davon, ob sie sich einer PTR unterzogen hatten, bevor sie die systemische Therapie erhielten. Ausgewertet wurden die Dauer des prognosefreien Überlebens (PFS) und die Gesamtüberlebenszeit (OS), die beide vom Beginn der Primärdiagnose bis zum Fortschreiten der Krankheit und Tod bzw. letzten Follow-up aufgezeichnet wurden. Darüber hinaus verglichen wir die Häufigkeit schwerer klinischer Ereignisse (wie Notoperationen, Strahlentherapie und Stent-Implantation) zwischen den beiden Gruppen. Ergebnisse: In die vorliegende prospektive Beobachtungsstudie wurden 191 mCRC-Patienten (108 männliche und 83 weibliche Patienten) aufgenommen. Das mediane Alter betrug 57,5 Jahre. Die klinischen Merkmale (Alter, Geschlecht, Performance-Status, Situs des Primärtumors, RAS-Status und Anzahl der von Metastasen betroffenen Organe) unterschieden sich nicht wesentlich zwischen den beiden Gruppen. Die Medianwerte der PFS- und OS-Dauer waren in der PTR-Gruppe besser als in der IPT-Gruppe (10,0 vs. 7,8 Monate, p < 0,01; bzw. 22,5 vs. 17,8 Monate, p < 0,01). Die Inzidenzen unerwünschter Ereignisse im Zusammenhang mit der systemischen Therapie waren in den beiden Gruppen ähnlich. Im Besonderen entwickelten 16 Patienten (21,9%, 16/73) mit IPT signifikante primärtumorbedingte Komplikationen wie Blutungen, Obstruktionen oder sogar Perforationen. Von diesen Patienten wurden 5 einer Notoperation unterzogen, 3 Patienten erhielten einen Stent und 8 eine Strahlentherapie. Schlussfolgerung: Die mCRC-Patienten, die eine PTR und Bevacizumab-Kombinationschemotherapie erhielten, zeigten bessere klinische Ergebnisse als Patienten, die keine PTR erhielten. Die PTR verringerte auch die Inzidenz schwerer klinischer Ereignisse und verbesserte die Lebensqualität.
Autoimmunhämolytische Anämie als Komplikation der Nivolumab-Therapie
Authors: Palla Amruth R. , Kennedy Devin , Mosharraf Hossain , Doll Donald
Published: March 2017

In letzter Zeit ist das Instrumentarium zur Bekämpfung verschiedener maligner Erkrankungen maßgeblich um mehrere Immuntherapeutika erweitert worden - von PD-1-Inhibitoren (Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab) über PD-L1-Inhibitoren (Atezolizumab, Avelumab) bis hin zu CTLA4-Inhibitoren (Ipiliumumab). Sie alle sind in die Behandlungsprotokolle der ersten, zweiten oder dritten Therapielinie für diese metastatischen Krebserkrankungen aufgenommen worden. Der Immun-Checkpoint-Inhibitor Nivolumab ist derzeit von der FDA in folgenden Indikationen zugelassen: bei metastasiertem malignem Melanom (Redman JM, et al.: BMC Med 2016;14:20), bei metastasiertem nichtkleinzelligem Bronchialkarzinom (Guibert N, Mazières J: Expert Opin Biol Ther 2015;15:1789-1797), bei metastasiertem Nierenzellkarzinom (Farolfi A, et al.: Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2016;12:1089-1096) sowie bei rezidivierendem oder therapierefraktärem klassischem Hodgkin-Lymphom (Villasboas JC, Ansell SM: Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2016;16:5-12). In Anbe- tracht der bereits bestehenden und hinzukommenden Anwendungsgebiete dieser Arzneimittel ist es für Ärzte unerlässlich, sich auch gut mit ihren typischen Nebenwirkungen vertraut zu machen und aufmerksam auf andere, weniger umfassend dokumentierte Gesundheitsstörungen zu achten, die durch Anwendung dieser Arzneimittel ermittelt werden könnten. Eine definitive Assoziation zwischen autoimmunhämolytischer Anämie und dem Immun-Checkpoint-Inhibitor Nivolumab ist nicht eindeutig belegt, jedoch wurde in jüngerer Zeit von mehreren Fällen berichtet (Kong BY, et al.: Melanoma Res 2016;26:202-204; Schwab KS, et al.: Case Rep Oncol 2016;9:373-378; Tardy MP, et al.: Hematol Oncol 2016;DOI:10.1002/hon.2338). Wir berichten hier über einen Fall von steroidrefraktärer, tödlich verlaufender autoimmunhämolytischer Anämie bei einem Patienten, der wegen metastasiertem Lungenkrebs mit Nivolumab behandelt wurde. Außerdem gehen wir auch auf die anderen in der Literatur vorliegenden Fälle von autoimmunhämolytischer Anämie nach Anwendung von Nivolumab ein. Übersetzung aus Case Rep Oncol 2016;9:691-697(DOI: 10.1159/000452296)
MRT/Ultraschall-Fusionsbiopsie der Prostata: Zusätzliche schematische Biopsie bleibt trotz Alternativen unverzichtbar
Authors: Westenfelder Kay M.
Published: March 2017

Ziel: Beurteilung der prädiktiven Faktoren zur Identifizierung von Männern, bei denen eine alleinige gezielte Biopsie (TB) mittels MRT/Ultraschall-Fusion die Erkennung der Höchstrisikogruppe für ein Prostatakarzinom (PCa) ermöglicht. Patienten und Methoden: Retrospektive Analyse von 251 konsekutiven Patienten, bei denen zwischen August 2013 und Juli 2015 eine sensorbasierte Echtzeit-MRT/US-TB in Kombination mit einer 10-fachen systematischen Biopsie (SB) durchgeführt wurde. Mit univariaten und multivariaten binären Regressionsanalysen wurden Prädiktoren für eine gleich gute/überlegene Erfassung der PCa-Risikogruppe durch die TB im Vergleich zur SB evaluiert. Ergebnisse: Mit der TB wurde in 63% der Fälle (157/251) ein PCa detektiert, mit der SB in 70% (176/251); die Kombination von TB und SB erfasste das PCa bei 77% (193/251) der Krebspatienten. 50% (291/584) der TB- und 22% (539/2486) der SB-Biopsieproben zeigten ein PCa. Prädiktoren für eine gleich gute/überlegene Leistung der alleinigen TB waren die Größe der Läsion (maximaler Durchmesser; OR 1,050; 95-%-KI 1,002-1,101%, p = 0,043), eine digital-rektale Tastuntersuchung (DRU) mit auffälligem Befund (OR 2,448; 95-%-KI 1,062-5,645%, p = 0,036) und ein Verhältnis vom freien zum gesamten prostataspezifischen Antigen (f/t- PSA-Ratio) ≤0,15 (OR 0,916; 95-%-KI 0,867-0,967%, p = 0,002) in der univariaten Regressionsanalyse und f/t-PSA-Ratio ≤0,15 (OR 0,916; 95-%-KI 0,867-0,967%, p = 0,002) in der multivariaten Regressionsanalyse. Schlussfolgerung: Der maximale axiale Durchmesser der Läsion laut «Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System», das f/t-PSA-Verhältnis und eine DRU mit auffälligem Befund sind mögliche Auswahlkriterien für Männer, die für eine alleinige gezielte Biopsie mittels MRT/Ultraschall-Fusion in Frage kommen.
Genetic Polymorphisms in DEFB1 and miRNA202 Are Involved in Salivary Human β-Defensin 1 Levels and Caries Experience in Children
Authors: Lips Andrea , Antunes Leonardo Santos , Antunes Lívia Azeredo , Abreu Júlia Guimarães Barcellos de , Barreiros Driely , Oliveira Daniela Silva Barroso de , Batista Ana Carolina , Nelson-Filho Paulo , Silva Léa Assed Bezerra da , Silva Raquel Assed Bezerra da , Alves Gutemberg Gomes , Küchler Erika Calvano
Published: March 2017

The antimicrobial peptides human β-defensins (hBDs) are encoded by β-defensin genes (DEFBs) and are possibly involved in caries susceptibility. In this study we aimed (1) to investigate the relationship between salivary hBDs and caries and (2) to evaluate the association of genetic polymorphisms in DEFB1 and microRNA202 (miRNA202) with salivary levels of hBDs and caries experience. Two data sets were available for this study, totalizing 678 Brazilian children. Dental examination and saliva collection were performed in all included children. The salivary level for hDB1, hBD2, and hBD4 was assessed by ELISA sandwich technique in 168 children. The DNA was extracted from saliva, and polymorphisms in DEFB1 and miRNA202 were analyzed by real-time PCR. Statistical analysis was performed to investigate the associations between caries experience, hBD salivary level, genotype, and allele distribution, with an alpha of 0.05. The hBD1 level was significantly higher in caries-free children (p < 0.0001). The miRNA202 was associated with a lower level of salivary hBD1 (p < 0.05). Also, the polymorphic distribution of miRNA202 was associated with caries (p = 0.006). The polymorphisms in DEFB1 were not associated with hBD salivary level and caries experience (p > 0.05). In conclusion, our results indicate that genetic polymorphism in miRNA202 is involved in hBD1 salivary level as well as caries experience in children.
What Is the Key to Improving Renal Transplant Recipients' Awareness of Skin Cancer Risk?
Authors: Borghi Alessandro , Corazza Monica , Battaglia Yuri , Maietti Elisa , Minghetti Sara , Virgili Annarosa
Published: March 2017

Background: Previous studies have shown poor compliance rates regarding sun protection among organ transplant recipients. Objective: The main objective of the present study was to assess the awareness among renal transplant recipients (RTRs) of their risk of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) development and their sunscreen use. The influence of several potentially relevant variables was also assessed in order to identify possible weak points on which to concentrate efforts in this respect. Methods: A total of 132 RTRs (92 males and 40 females) were included. The following information was collected and elaborated: (a) demographics; (b) skin phototype; (c) educational level; (d) time elapsed since transplantation; (e) immunosuppressive treatments; (f) previous dermatological visits; (g) patients' awareness of their NMSC risk; (h) use of sunscreen; and (i) previous documented NMSCs or NMSCs found during the study visit. Results: Overall, 65 patients (49.2%) expressed awareness of their susceptibility to skin cancers. A high educational level was the main factor associated with patients' awareness. Thirty-six RTRs (27.3%) reported using sunscreen regularly. High educational level and awareness of personal susceptibility to NMSC development were the most relevant factors associated with sun protection habits. Conclusion: The present study showed the low level of sunscreen use among RTRs and their scanty awareness of personal skin cancer risk. Since educational level has been found to be highly related to both awareness of cancer risk and adequate use of sunscreen among RTRs, it is necessary to improve the way education is delivered by dermatologists and nephrologists, especially to subjects with a low educational level.
Segmental Testicular Infarction: Case Series and Literature Review of a Rare Diagnosis in Men with Acute Testicular Pain
Authors: Ernst Simone , Saar Matthias , Brenneis Horst , Kubale Reinhard , Ueberdiek Stefan , Ohlmann Carsten-Henning , Stoeckle Michael , Heinzelbecker Julia
Published: March 2017

The incidence of segmental testicular infarction (STI) is very low. Such a disorder most often affects young men. The most common symptom is sudden testicular pain. We report 6 cases of men diagnosed with STI. Clinical examination, blood test, urine analysis, and ultrasound examination with colour Doppler were performed. Furthermore, tissue sonoelastography or MRI was performed in selected patients. All men underwent surgical exploration. In all but one man, the affected testis was preserved. Although STI is a rare condition, it should be taken into account if testicular pain prior to suspicious ultrasound imaging occurs. To be aware of this benign testicular pathology and its clinical and imaging features is important to avoid unnecessary orchiectomies in young patients.
ВИЗНАЧЕННЯ ПРІОРИТЕТНИХ НАПРЯМКІВ УДОСКОНАЛЕННЯ ДЕРЖАВНОГО ТА СУСПІЛЬНОГО РЕГУЛЮВАННЯ У ФАРМАЦІЇ
Authors: Susharyna I. V. , Nemchenko A. S. , Homenko V. M.
Published: March 2017

Мета роботи. Визначення пріоритетних напрямків удосконалення державного та суспільного регулювання у фармації.Матеріали і методи. Були використані системний підхід, аналітичний, статистичний, графічний та метод анкетного опитування респондентів.Результати й обговорення. За результатами проведеного анкетного опитування фахівців були визначені проблеми та встановлені найбільш важливі пріоритети щодо реформування системи державного й суспільного регулювання у  фармації. Одержані результати опитування фахівців за 2011 – 2012 рр. та 2015-2016 рр. було порівняно з даними дослідження 2007 р. Було реалізовано актуальне завдання щодо оцінки проблем розвитку вітчизняної фармації та визначення пріоритетних напрямків удосконалення державного та суспільного регулювання у вітчизняній фармації за останні десять років.Висновки. Встановлено, що найбільш ефективними засобами державного регулювання респонденти вважають економічні (більше 71 % спеціалістів фармації та 80 % керівників відповідно). Слід зазначити, що за останні десять років у даному випадку змінились пріоритети, у дослідженні 2007 р. більше 80,0 % опитаних (перше місце) віддавали перевагу використанню засобам правового спрямування. Встановлено, що більше 60 % керівників та спеціалістів вважають можливим повну передачу громадським організаціям функції атестації фармацевтичних кадрів. Понад 35 % фахівців фармації вважають можливою передачу громадським організаціям й таких функцій, як ліцензування діяльності, пов’язаної з роздрібною реалізацією ліків, а також акредитація установ, закладів і підприємств фармацевтичної галузі (більш ніж 17 %).
СИНТЕЗ 3-ПІРИДИЛЗАМІЩЕНИХ 4-ТІАЗОЛІДИНОНІВ ЯК ПОТЕНЦІЙНИХ БІОЛОГІЧНО АКТИВНИХ СПОЛУК
Authors: Wojtyra M. N. , Lesyk R. B.
Published: March 2017

Мета роботи. Здійснити синтез 3-піридилзаміщених 5-ариліден-4-тіазолідинонів потенційних біологічно активних сполук.Матеріали і методи. Вихідні реагенти синтезовані за відомими методиками із комерційно доступних реактивів. 1H ЯМР спектри знімались на приладі Varian Gemini 400 MHz. Температури плавлення визначали на приладі BŰCHI B-545.Результати й обговорення. Одержано 3-піридилзаміщені 5-ариліден-2-тіоксо-4-тіазолідинони на основі методу Гольмберга та реакції Кньовенагеля. Для синтезу структурно подібних 3-(2-піридил)-2,4-тіазолідиндіонів запропоновано двохетапний підхід, який базується на однореакторній («one-pot») трикомпонентній реакції 1-бензоїл-3-(піридин-2-іл)-2-тіосечовини, монохлороцтової кислоти та ароматичного альдегіду з утворенням 5-ариліден-2-бензоїліміно-3-(2-піридил)-4-тіазолідинонів, які при кислотному гідролізі з високими виходами утворюють цільові продукти. Структура синтезованих сполук  підтверджена методом спектроскопії ПМР.Висновки. Синтезовано серію нових 3-піридилзаміщених похідних роданіну, тіазолідиндіону і псевдотіогідантоїну. Стереоселективність реакції Кньовенагеля і утворення 5-(Z)-ариліден-4-тіазолідинонів підтверждено даними спектрів ПМР.
ДО 100-РІЧЧЯ ВІД ДНЯ НАРОДЖЕННЯ ПРОФЕСОРА В.Т. ПОЗДНЯКОВОЇ
Authors: Kalynyuk T. H.
Published: March 2017

Стаття-спогад про доктора фармацевтичних наук, професора Валентину Трохимівну Позднякову - непересічну особистість і організатора, талановитого вченого і педагога.
СУЧАСНИЙ СТАН СТВОРЕННЯ, ВИРОБНИЦТВА ТА ДОСЛІДЖЕННЯ ТАБЛЕТОВАНИХ ЛІКАРСЬКИХ ПРЕПАРАТІВ. Повідомлення 27. Основні аспекти виготовлення лікарських засобів у формі льодяників
Authors: Hordiienko O. I. , Нroshovyi T. A.
Published: March 2017

Мета роботи. Опрацювати та узагальнити літературні дані про переваги та недоліки, класифікацію, особливості технології виготовлення, контроль якості, пакування та зберігання медичних льодяників.Матеріали і методи. Огляд літератури про лікарську форму – льодяники.Результати й обговорення. Льодяники – це тверді однодозові лікарські засоби для смоктання, що містять одну або більше діючих речовин, звичайно в ароматній і солодкій основі, і призначені для повільного розчинення або розпадання у роті при смоктанні. Залежно від місця дії, вони можуть проявляти місцеві або системні ефекти. За текстурою і складом льодяники поділяють на жувальні, м’які, пресовані, тверді цукеркові, а також льодяники із наповненням всередині. Після виготовлення льодяники проходять контроль якості, а саме: загальний контроль виробництва цукеркової основи, визначення вмісту вологи, співвідношення цукру і кукурудзяного сиропу та відновлюючих цукрів. Також проводять фізичні та хімічні випробування льодяників, мікробіологічне дослідження і тестування стабільності.Висновки. Льодяники не втрачають своєї популярності як лікарська форма і залишаються у промисловому виробництві. Це пояснюється широким рядом лікарських засобів, що можуть входити в їхній склад, приємністю та зручністю введення, можливістю використання в педіатрії та геріатрії, економічністю тощо.
Ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii, anti-Neospora caninum e anti-Leptospira spp. em gambás (Didelphis spp.) no estado de São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Horta Mauricio Claudio , Ragozo Alessandra Mara Alves , Casagrande Renata Assis , Matushima Eliana Reiko , Souza Gisele Oliveira de , De Morais Zenaide Maria , Vasconcellos Silvio Arruda , Gennari Solange Maria
Published: March 2017

O gambá (Didelphis spp.) é um marsupial onívoro nativo das Américas que apresenta comportamento sinantrópico em áreas urbanas. Apesar da sua proximidade com animais domésticos e o homem, o conhecimento da sua participação na epidemiologia de alguns agentes zoonóticos é fundamental. Este estudo objetivou determinar a presença de anticorpos contra Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora spp. e Leptospira spp. em amostras de sangue colhidas de gambás de 18 municípios do estado de São Paulo, Brasil, entre 2003 e 2008. Foram obtidas amostras sanguíneas de 343 gambás: Didelphis aurita (n = 256) e Didelphis albiventris (n = 87). As amostras foram testadas para detecção de anticorpos contra T. gondii, utilizando o teste de aglutinação modificado (TAM-Toxo; ponto de corte ≥ 25); Neospora spp., utilizando a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI; ponto de corte ≥ 25); e Leptospira spp., utilizando a soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM-Lepto; ponto de corte ≥ 100). As frequências de anticorpos contra T. gondii, Neospora spp. e Leptospira spp. foram 22,7%, 1,5% e 3,5%, respectivamente. Os sorogrupos-sorovares de Leptospira spp. que apresentaram soropositividade foram: Autumnalis-Butembo; Mini-Mini; Ballum-Castellonis; Icterohaemorrhagiae-Icterohaemorrhagiae; Icterohaemorrhagiae-Copenhageni e Grippotyphosa-Grippotyphosa ou Bananal. Esse estudo demonstrou que esses agentes estão circulando em populações de gambás no estado de São Paulo. Desta forma, investigações que visam determinar o papel dos marsupiais na epidemiologia de cada doença devem ser conduzidas, especialmente visando o entendimento do comportamento desses animais como hospedeiros dessas zoonoses.
Catechins as Potential Mediators of Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Mangels Daniel R. , Mohler Emile R.
Published: March 2017

The impact of diet on cardiovascular disease has become an increasingly relevant topic as ongoing epidemiological evidence continues to demonstrate clear associations with disease burden and mortality. Certain diets, such as those high in sodium and saturated fat, are associated with cardiovascular disease states, while other diets can be cardioprotective. However, there is limited knowledge on how the micro- and macronutrients within such cardioprotective diets afford their benefits. One such micronutrient is the catechin class, which are naturally occurring compounds in plant foods, such as teas, cocoa, wine, pears, and apples. Recent evidence reveals that catechins may be a key mediator in cardiovascular health via mechanisms of blood pressure reduction, flow-mediated vasodilation, and atherosclerosis attenuation. This review evaluates the current literature on the interplay between catechins and cardiovascular disease, which may have important implications for nutrition counseling and pharmaceutical drug development.
Transcatheter Treatment of Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation With the Edge-to-Edge MitraClip Technique
Authors: Nickenig Georg , Kowalski Marek , Hausleiter Jörg , Braun Daniel , Schofer Joachim , Yzeiraj Ermela , Rudolph Volker , Friedrichs Kai , Maisano Francesco , Taramasso Maurizio , Fam Neil , Bianchi Giovanni , Bedogni Francesco , Denti Paolo , Alfieri Ottavio , Latib Azeem , Colombo Antonio , Hammerstingl Christoph , Schueler Robert
Published: March 2017

Background:

Current surgical and medical treatment options for severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) are limited, and additional interventional approaches are required. In the present observational study, the safety and feasibility of transcatheter repair of chronic severe TR with the MitraClip system were evaluated. In addition, the effects on clinical symptoms were assessed.

Methods:

Patients with heart failure symptoms and severe TR on optimal medical treatment were treated with the MitraClip system. Safety, defined as periprocedural adverse events such as death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or cardiac tamponade, and feasibility, defined as successful implantation of 1 or more MitraClip devices and reduction of TR by at least 1 grade, were evaluated before discharge and after 30 days. In addition, functional outcome, defined as changes in New York Heart Assocation class and 6-minute walking distance, were assessed.

Results:

We included 64 consecutive patients (mean age 76.6±10 years) deemed unsuitable for surgery who underwent MitraClip treatment for chronic, severe TR for compassionate use. Functional TR was present in 88%; in addition, 22 patients were also treated with the MitraClip system for mitral regurgitation as a combined procedure. The degree of TR was severe or massive in 88% of patients before the procedure. The MitraClip device was successfully implanted in the tricuspid valve in 97% of the cases. After the procedure, TR was reduced by at least 1 grade in 91% of the patients, thereof 4% that were reduced from massive to severe. In 13% of patients, TR remained severe after the procedure. Significant reductions in effective regurgitant orifice area (0.9±0.3cm
2
versus 0.4±0.2cm
2
;
P
<0.001), vena contracta width (1.1±0.5 cm versus 0.6±0.3 cm;
P
=0.001), and regurgitant volume (57.2±12.8 mL/beat versus 30.8±6.9 mL/beat;
P
<0.001) were observed. No intraprocedural deaths, cardiac tamponade, emergency surgery, stroke, myocardial infarction, or major vascular complications occurred. Three (5%) in-hospital deaths occurred. New York Heart Association class was significantly improved (
P
<0.001), and 6-minute walking distance increased significantly (165.9±102.5 m versus 193.5±115.9 m;
P
=0.007).

Conclusions:

Transcatheter treatment of TR with the MitraClip system seems to be safe and feasible in this cohort of preselected patients. Initial efficacy analysis showed encouraging reduction of TR, which may potentially result in improved clinical outcomes.
A New Model of Christian Interaction with the Jews: The Institutum Judaicum and Missions to the Jews in the Atlantic World
Authors: Ariel Yaakov
Published: March 2017

The Institutum Judaicum represented a new movement in the realm of Christian interactions with the Jews. The mission, and the Pietist movement as a whole, proposed an alternative, non-supersessionist understanding of the Jews and their role in history. They made efforts to interact with that people and share with them the Pietist reading of the scriptures and a messianic vision for the End Times. While they considered their version of Christianity to be superior to the Jewish faith and maintained stereotypical images of Jews, they also militated for improvement of Christian treatments of Jewish minorities.

The mission in Halle did not remain a local isolated development. Its activities took place in certain parts of continental Europe, but its ambitions were global, and much of its work was in the realm of publications intended for Jewish and Christian audiences beyond its immediate areas of operation. The mission’s heritage and long-range influence went further than the time and geographical scope of its activity. Following in the footsteps of the Halle Pietists, numerous Pietist and evangelical missions sprang up, mostly in the Atlantic region, but often extending their activities to other parts of the Jewish world. The evangelical movement, which eclipsed Pietists in the size and influence of its activity, adopted many elements of the Pietist understanding of and interaction with the Jews.
Projectile Motion in a Vacuum According to Francesc Marbres, Francis of Marchia, Gerald Odonis, and Nicholas Bonet
Authors: Schabel Chris
Published: March 2017

In the third decade of the fourteenth century, the first definitive steps were taken to replace Aristotle’s theory of projectile motion and to apply the new theory to explain finite motion in a vacuum. The main actors in this shift were the Franciscan theologians Francis of Marchia, Gerald Odonis, and Nicholas Bonet, as well as Francesc Marbres, the artist formerly known as ‘John the Canon,’ but there is some confusion about their respective roles. Over the past decade, critical editions and manuscript studies of the pertinent texts of Marchia, Odonis, and Marbres have provided the raw materials to straighten out what some have considered the early background to the Galilean theory of projectile motion.
That you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah (John 20)
Authors: Byrne Pauline
Published: March 2017

One of the features of the Fourth Gospel is the presentation of a series of representative figures to illustrate a range of faith responses to Jesus. In John 20, we follow four key characters (Mary Magdalene, Peter, the ‘Beloved Disciple’ and Thomas) in the immediate post-Resurrection period. This essay explores the narrative techniques used in the portrayal of each character and considers how these model disciples can serve as inspiration and encouragement for all those who travel on the path to faith in the risen Jesus.
Influence of molecular structure on the foamability of polypropylene: Linear and extensional rheological fingerprint
Authors: Bahreini Ebrahim , Aghamiri Seyed Foad , Wilhelm Manfred , Abbasi Mahdi
Published: March 2017

The foaming structure and rheological properties of four different isotactic homo-polypropylenes with various molecular weights and an isotactic long chain branched polypropylene were investigated to find a suitable rheological fingerprint for PP foams. The molecular weight distribution and thermal properties were measured using GPC-MALLS and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. Small amplitude oscillatory shear data and uniaxial extensional experiments were analyzed using the frameworks of van Gurp-Palmen plot (δ vs. | G*|) and the molecular stress function model, respectively. These analyses were used to find a correlation between the molecular structure, rheological properties and foaming structures of linear and long chain branching polypropylenes. Two linear viscoelastic characteristics, | G*| at δ = 60° and | η*| at ω = 5 rad/s were used as criteria for foamability of these polymers, where decreasing of both parameters by increasing the long chain branching content results in smaller cell size and higher cell density. The molecular stress function model was able to quantify the strain hardening properties of long chain branching blends using small amplitude oscillatory shear data and two nonlinear material parameters, 1 ≤  β ≤ 2.2 and 1 ≤ [Formula: see text] ≤ 600, where the minimum and maximum values of these parameters belong to the linear and long chain branched polypropylene, respectively. Increasing the long chain branched polypropylene content of the PP blends increased strain hardening, and therefore improved the foaming characteristics significantly by suppressing the coalescence of cells. Dilution of linear PP with only 10 wt% of long chain branched polypropylene enhanced the cell density from 5.7 × 106 to 2.7 × 107 cell/cm3 and reduced the average cell diameter from 58 to 26 µm, respectively, while their volume expansion ratio remained in the same range of 2–3. Increasing of long chain branching to 50 and 100 wt% enhanced the V.E.R. to 6.2 and 7.8, respectively.
Phthalonitrile-carbon fiber composites produced by vacuum infusion process
Authors: Bulgakov BA , Sulimov AV , Babkin AV , Timoshkin IA , Solopchenko AV , Kepman AV , Avdeev VV
Published: March 2017

High-temperature carbon fiber-reinforced plastics based on phthalonitrile resins are obtained for the first time by vacuum infusion process. For this purpose, formulations based on low-melting bis(3-(3,4-dicyanophenoxy)phenyl) phenyl phosphate monomer in combination with 1,3-bis(3,4-dicyanophenoxy)benzene and 4-[3-(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)phenoxy]benzene-1,2-dicarbonitrile were developed. Resin viscosities η ≤ 600 mPa·s were suitable for VIP and at the same time the thermal and mechanical properties of the cured matrices were in high level featured to phthalonitriles (HDT ≥ 420℃, E ≥ 5.1 GPa). CFRP samples were manufactured by vacuum infusion process with carbon fabric and demonstrated thermal stability over 400℃ and a change of mechanical properties by less than 10% at 300℃. Present results sufficiently extend the application field of phthalonitriles as matrices for complex-shape high temperature composite parts in aerospace or high-temperature composite tooling for PEEK-like thermoplastics processing.
Lexical Segmentation in Artificial Word Learning: The Effects of Converging Sublexical Cues
Authors: Bagou Odile , Frauenfelder Ulrich Hans
Published: March 2017

This study examines how French listeners segment and learn new words of artificial languages varying in the presence of different combinations of sublexical segmentation cues. The first experiment investigated the contribution of three different types of sublexical cues (acoustic-phonetic, phonological and prosodic cues) to word learning. The second experiment explored how participants specifically exploited sublexical prosodic cues. Whereas complementary cues signaling word-initial and word-final boundaries had synergistic effects on word learning in the first experiment, the two manipulated prosodic cues redundantly signaling word-final boundaries in the second experiment were rank-ordered with final pitch variations being more weighted than final lengthening. These results are discussed in light of the notions of cue type, cue position and cue efficiency.
Changes in new recruits’ motivation and intentions to use a learning portfolio
Authors: Tombs Michal , Morgan Phillip L
Published: March 2017

The purpose of the study was to examine motivation and intentions to complete a learning portfolio. Seventy newly recruited Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) at a UK police constabulary completed questionnaires at four different time points during training that examined their perceptions of the instrumentality of the learning portfolio and their intention to complete it. Results revealed decreases in motivation and intention over the four training periods, with substantially lower ratings six months into training. This study provides insight of the malleability of motivation and attitudes towards the learning portfolio, suggesting that trainers should pay more attention to motivational processes.
Tensile, physical, and microstructure properties of glycine treated cotton fibers
Authors: Remadevi Rechana , Gordon Stuart , Wang Xungai , Rajkhowa Rangam
Published: March 2017

In this paper, the effect of aqueous glycine treatments at different pH on the tensile properties of cotton fibers is reported. The effects on linear density and X-ray diffraction crystallinity were also evaluated. Glycine treated fibers at alkaline pH (i.e. at pH 11) produced fibers with higher linear density than control (untreated) and glycine treatments at acidic pH. The same treatment also increased strain values in cotton fibers by as much as 36%. Interestingly, similar changes in strain were observed under acidic conditions, especially at pH4, although the changes were smaller. Specific stress values normalized by the linear density measurements were not significantly different from control samples. The results of this research demonstrated improved strain properties of cotton fibers after aqueous glycine treatment at suitable conditions.
Measurements and prediction of fabric surface fitting ability under low tension
Authors: Kim KyoungOk , Suzuki Tomoya , Takatera Masayuki
Published: March 2017

This study investigated the surface fitting ability of woven fabric under low tension using a new measurement method. The limit angle of shear buckling, the maximum shear angle, is defined as the surface fitting ability. To estimate the maximum shear angle, we measured the base radius of a spherical crown of woven fabrics while covering the spherical surface without wrinkles. The relationship between the maximum shear angle and base radius was calculated numerically. We constructed a new testing equipment to determine the surface fitting ability of fabric with an aluminum hemisphere set on a laboratory jack and acrylic boards with holes of varying size at the center. Nineteen kinds of woven fabric samples and three hemispheres of different radii were used to measure the surface fitting ability. The relationships among the maximum shear angle and mechanical and structural properties were investigated. Thickness, interlacing point density and shear stiffness showed high correlation with the surface fitting ability. Using these properties, a new prediction formula for surface fitting ability was proposed. The predictive values showed a good agreement with the measured values. Therefore, the proposed method and the prediction equation are useful for evaluating the surface fitting ability of woven fabrics. The effect of the sphere radius on the surface fitting ability was also clarified.
The Missing Piece: The Case for Administrative Law in the MSPA Curriculum
Authors: Caiden Naomi
Published: March 2017

Why is administrative law so neglected in the curricula of graduate public administration in the United States? In the light of professed adherence to democratic administration and rule of law, this gap in the academic education of public service professionals seems surprising and somewhat disconcerting. Public servants are not only empowered but obligated by law to use the power of the state to make decisions and take actions in the public interest. Yet, study of the theory, processes, and practices of administrative law seems to play little or no part in their preparation for these tasks.
Investigation of a Lifestyle Intervention in Women at High Risk of Breast Cancer
Authors: Han Claire J. , Korde Larissa A. , Reding Scott , Allott Kristen , Van Doren Matt , Schwarz Yvonne , Vaughan Catalina , Reding Kerryn W.
Published: March 2017

One fourth of breast cancer can be attributed to sedentary lifestyles and being overweight or obese. This pilot study was conducted to explore whether a 6-month lifestyle intervention affected body composition and obesity-related biomarkers among women at high risk of breast cancer. Overweight/obese women at high risk of breast cancer were randomized to the control group or to the intervention. The intervention was an individually tailored, cognitive-behavioral therapy program that assists women in identifying strategies to improve their nutrition and physical activity habits with the goal of reduced adiposity. We compared changes in body composition and plasma biomarkers from baseline to 6 months. Body weight, adiposity, leptin, insulin resistance, and C-reactive protein were significantly reduced in the intervention group versus controls. No significant differences were observed in adiponectin, insulin, glucose, or interleukin-6. Our findings suggest that this intervention improves the metabolic and inflammatory profiles of overweight/obese women at risk of breast cancer.