bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Murine Electrophysiological Models of Cardiac Arrhythmogenesis
Authors: Huang Christopher L.-H.
Published: December 2016

Cardiac arrhythmias can follow disruption of the normal cellular electrophysiological processes underlying excitable activity and their tissue propagation as coherent wavefronts from the primary sinoatrial node pacemaker, through the atria, conducting structures and ventricular myocardium. These physiological events are driven by interacting, voltage-dependent, processes of activation, inactivation, and recovery in the ion channels present in cardiomyocyte membranes. Generation and conduction of these events are further modulated by intracellular Ca2+homeostasis, and metabolic and structural change. This review describes experimental studies on murine models for known clinical arrhythmic conditions in which these mechanisms were modified by genetic, physiological, or pharmacological manipulation. These exemplars yielded molecular, physiological, and structural phenotypes often directly translatable to their corresponding clinical conditions, which could be investigated at the molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and whole animal levels. Arrhythmogenesis could be explored during normal pacing activity, regular stimulation, following imposed extra-stimuli, or during progressively incremented steady pacing frequencies. Arrhythmic substrate was identified with temporal and spatial functional heterogeneities predisposing to reentrant excitation phenomena. These could arise from abnormalities in cardiac pacing function, tissue electrical connectivity, and cellular excitation and recovery. Triggering events during or following recovery from action potential excitation could thereby lead to sustained arrhythmia. These surface membrane processes were modified by alterations in cellular Ca2+homeostasis and energetics, as well as cellular and tissue structural change. Study of murine systems thus offers major insights into both our understanding of normal cardiac activity and its propagation, and their relationship to mechanisms generating clinical arrhythmias.
Preparation and Photocatalytic Performance of MWCNTs/TiO2Nanocomposites for Degradation of Aqueous Substrate
Authors: Duan Qiannan , Lee Jianchao , Liu Yansong , Qi Hailang
Published: December 2016

In this study, multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/TiO2nanocomposites were obtained by constant volumetric wet impregnation processes. The prepared catalysts were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The effect of reaction conditions on photocatalytic performance of the catalysts was investigated by the degradation of methyl orange (MO) under UV irradiation, in a new type of reactor with unique structure. The results showed that the prepared nanocomposite exhibited higher MO degradation efficiency than that of pure nano-TiO2. Besides, in batch experiments of influencing factors, including ionic strength, oxidant amount, and response times, the presence of H2O2would contribute to increasing the MO degradation rate of MWCNTs/TiO2samples. Ionic concentration and long reaction times are adverse to the MO degradation in the processes.
Research on the Uncertainty Decision Model of the Regional Collaborative Innovation System Based on an Improved Ant Colony Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Xiaona , Wang Fayin
Published: December 2016

The regional collaborative innovation system is a nonlinear complex system, which has obvious uncertainty characteristics in the aspects of member selection and evolution. Ant colony algorithm, which can do the uncertainty collaborative optimization decision-making, is an effective tool to solve the uncertainty decision path selection problem. It can improve the cooperation efficiency of each subsystem and achieve the goal of effective cooperation. By analysing the collaborative evolution mechanisms of the regional innovation system, an evaluation index system for the regional collaborative innovation system is established considering the uncertainty of collaborative systems. The collaborative uncertainty decision model is constructed to determine the regional innovation system’s collaborative innovation effectiveness. The improved ant colony algorithm with the pheromone evaporation model is applied to traversal optimization to identify the optimal solution of the regional collaborative innovation system. The collaboration capabilities of the ant colony include pheromone diffusion so that local updates are more flexible and the result is more rational. Finally, the method is applied to the regional collaborative innovation system.
Integrating Gene Correction in the Reprogramming and Transdifferentiation Processes: A One‐Step Strategy to Overcome Stem Cell‐Based Gene Therapy Limitations
Authors: Lee Seo-Young , Chung Sun-Ku
Published: December 2016

The recent advent of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and gene therapy tools has raised the possibility of autologous cell therapy for rare genetic diseases. However, cellular reprogramming is inefficient in certain diseases such as ataxia telangiectasia, Fanconi anemia, LIG4 syndrome, and fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva syndrome, owing to interference of the disease‐related genes. To overcome these therapeutic limitations, it is necessary to fundamentally correct the abnormal gene during or prior to the reprogramming process. In addition, as genetic etiology of Parkinson’s disease, it has been well known that induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) were progressively depleted by LRRK2 gene mutation, LRRK2 (G2019S). Thus, to maintain the induced NSCs directly derived from PD patient cells harboring LRRK2 (G2019S), it would be ideal to simultaneously treat the LRRK2 (G2019S) fibroblast during the process of TD. Therefore, simultaneous reprogramming (or TD) and gene therapy would provide the solution for therapeutic limitation caused by vulnerability of reprogramming or TD, in addition to being suitable for general application to the generation of autologous cell‐therapy products for patients with genetic defects, thereby obviating the need for the arduous processes currently required.
Effect of Previous High Glutamine Infusion on Inflammatory Mediators and Mortality in an Acute Pancreatitis Model
Authors: Garib Ricardo , Garla Priscila , Torrinhas Raquel S. , Moretti Ana I. S. , Machado Marcel C. C. , Waitzberg Dan L.
Published: December 2016

Parenteral glutamine supplementation in acute inflammatory conditions is controversial. We evaluated the inflammatory and survival responses after parenteral glutamine infusion in sodium taurocholate-induced acute pancreatitis (AP) model. Lewis rats received 1 g/kg parenteral glutamine (n=42), saline (n=44), or no treatment (n=45) for 48 h before AP induction. Blood, lung, and liver samples were collected 2, 12, and 24 h after AP to measure serum cytokines levels and tissue heat shock protein (HSP) expression. From each group, 20 animals were not sacrificed after AP for a 7-day mortality study. Serum cytokine levels did not differ among groups at any time point, but the intragroup analysis over time showed higher interferon-γonly in the nontreatment and saline groups at 2 h (versus 12 and 24 h; bothp≤0.05). The glutamine group exhibited greater lung and liver HSP90 expression than did the nontreatment group at 2 and 12 h, respectively; greater liver HSP90 and HSP70 expression than did the saline group at 12 h; and smaller lung HSP70 and liver HSP90 expression than did the nontreatment group at 24 h (allp≤0.019). The 7-day mortality rate did not differ among groups. In experimental AP, pretreatment with parenteral glutamine was safe and improved early inflammatory mediator profiles without affecting mortality.
Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy Changes the Treatment Concept in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
Authors: Hybášková Jaroslava , Jor Ondřej , Novák Vilém , Zeleník Karol , Matoušek Petr , Komínek Pavel
Published: December 2016

The present study evaluated whether drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) helps identify the site of obstruction in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). A total of 51 consecutive patients with polysomnography-confirmed OSA were enrolled in this prospective study. The presumed site of obstruction was determined according to history, otorhinolaryngologic examination, and polysomnography and a therapeutic plan designed before DISE. In 11 patients with severe OSA and/or previously failed continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment, DISE with simultaneous CPAP was performed. Multilevel collapse was noted in 49 patients (96.1%). The most frequent multilevel collapse was palatal, oropharyngeal, and tongue base collapse (n=17, 33.3%), followed by palatal and oropharyngeal collapse (n=12, 23.5%). Pathology of the larynx (epiglottis) was observed in 16 patients (31.4%). The laryngeal obstruction as a reason for intolerance of CPAP was observed in 3/11 (27.3%) patients. After DISE, the surgical plan was changed in 31 patients (60.8%). The results indicate that DISE helps identify the site of obstruction in the upper airways in patients with OSA more accurately and that the larynx plays an important role in OSA.
Delayed Tension Pneumocephalus following Gunshot Wound to the Head: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Wang Arthur , Solli Elena , Carberry Nathan , Hillard Virany , Tandon Adesh
Published: December 2016

Tension pneumocephalus is a rare complication of head trauma and neurosurgical procedures, amongst other causes. It is defined by the combination of intracranial air, increased intracranial pressure, and mass effect. Although it often presents soon after surgery, it can also rarely present in a delayed fashion. We present a case of delayed tension pneumocephalus, occurring approximately 16 weeks after bifrontal craniectomy for a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Following a month of rhinorrhea, postnasal drip, and cough, the patient presented with a sensation of expansion in the area of the right forehead. As tension pneumocephalus is an emergency that can be fatal, this patient was treated expediently and avoided severe neurological deficits. The case recounted here is important as a demonstrative example that tension pneumocephalus does not always follow a defined course immediately after trauma or neurosurgery but rather can develop insidiously without obvious signs.
Plasma C1q/TNF-Related Protein-9 Levels Are Associated with Atherosclerosis in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes without Renal Dysfunction
Authors: Asada Mariko , Morioka Tomoaki , Yamazaki Yuko , Kakutani Yoshinori , Kawarabayashi Reina , Motoyama Koka , Mori Katsuhito , Fukumoto Shinya , Shioi Atsushi , Shoji Tetsuo , Emoto Masanori , Inaba Masaaki
Published: December 2016

Aim.C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-9 (CTRP9), a paralog of adiponectin, is expressed in adipose tissue. CTRP9 exerts protective effects against obesity and atherosclerosis in rodents. We investigated the association between plasma CTRP9 levels and atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes.Methods.We included 419 patients with type 2 diabetes, 161 of whom had chronic kidney disease (CKD). Fasting plasma CTRP9 and total adiponectin levels were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The intima-media thickness (IMT) of the common carotid artery was measured with ultrasonography.Results. Plasma CTRP9 levels were higher in the CKD group than in the non-CKD group. Plasma CTRP9 levels were positively correlated with carotid IMT in the non-CKD group. Multivariate analyses revealed that plasma CTRP9 levels were positively associated with carotid IMT in the non-CKD group, independent of age, sex, body mass index, adiponectin, and other cardiovascular risk factors. However, plasma CTRP9 levels were not associated with carotid IMT in the CKD group.Conclusion.Plasma CTRP9 levels are associated with atherosclerosis in diabetic patients without CKD, independently of obesity, adiponectin, and traditional cardiovascular risk factors. This study indicates a potential role of CTRP9 in atherosclerosis progression in human type 2 diabetes.
Abstract A02: Assessment of germline cancer predisposition genes in 392 unselected pancreatic cancer patients
Authors: McKay Skye , Humphris Jeremy , Johns Amber , Pinese Mark , Patch Ann-Marie , Nones Katia ,   Australian Pancreatic Cancer Genome Initiative (APGI), Grimmond Sean , Biankin Andrew , Waddell Nicola
Published: December 2016

Aim: To determine the prevalence of pathogenic germline mutations in known pancreatic cancer (PC) predisposition genes in an unselected PC cohort; identify clinico-pathological characteristics associated with gene carrier status; and analyse somatic genomic data for evidence of biallelic inactivation.

Methods: Whole-genome (n = 184) and exome (n = 208) sequencing was performed on matched tumor-normal DNA pairs from 392 predominantly sporadic cases of PC. Pathogenic mutations were assessed in 13 cancer predisposition genes associated with PC risk (APC, ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2, CDKN2A, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PALB2, PMS2, PRSS1, STK11, TP53.

Results: A total of 377 unique high confidence germline variants were observed in the 13 PC predisposition genes. 22 were classified as pathogenic and identified in 23/392 (5.9%) PC patients. The mutations occurred in BRCA2 (n=9), ATM (n=4), BRCA1 (n=3), PALB2 (n=3), CDKN2A (n=2) and one each in PMS2 and STK11. Truncating BRCA2 and PALB2 mutations were detected in 2 cases classified as familial PC. There was no significant difference in average age at diagnosis (67.9 vs 66.6, P = 0.5468), post-resection survival (20.3 vs 20.5 months, P = 0.9788), family history of malignancy (55.6% vs 40.5%, P = 0.2249) or personal history of malignancy (31.8% vs 15.0%, P = 0.0642) between those with and those without a pathogenic germline PC risk mutation. Patients harboring BRCA1, BRCA2 or PALB2 mutations were associated with an increased family history of breast or ovarian cancer (27.3% vs 6.3%, P = 0.0348). The second-hit mechanism could be assessed in tumors with >30% cellularity (n=16), of which 75% (7 BRCA2, 4 ATM, 1 BRCA1) showed evidence of biallelic inactivation.

Conclusion: 5.9% of PC patients with predominantly sporadic disease have a pathogenic germline mutation in cancer predisposition genes associated with PC risk. However, carrier status did not significantly affect age at diagnosis, survival, personal or family history of malignancy in this cohort. Second hit mechanisms were identified in 12 (52.2%) cases, supporting a potential role in pancreatic tumorgenesis. An expanded analysis of the germline data is required to further understand the genetic basis of both sporadic and familial PC.

Citation Format: Skye McKay, Jeremy Humphris, Amber Johns, Mark Pinese, Ann-Marie Patch, Katia Nones, Australian Pancreatic Cancer Genome Initiative (APGI), Sean Grimmond, Andrew Biankin, Nicola Waddell.{Authors}. Assessment of germline cancer predisposition genes in 392 unselected pancreatic cancer patients. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Pancreatic Cancer: Advances in Science and Clinical Care; 2016 May 12-15; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(24 Suppl):Abstract nr A02.
Abstract B45: Ductal pancreatic cancer modeling and drug screening using human pluripotent stem cell and patient-derived tumor organoids
Authors: Huang Ling , Holtzinger Audrey , Jagan Ishaan , Nostro Cristina , Wang Rennian , Muthuswamy Lakshmi , Arrowsmith Cheryl , Cleary Sean , Schaeffer David , Roehrl Michael , Ming-Sound Tsao , Gallinger Steven , Keller Gordon , Muthuswamy Senthil
Published: December 2016

There are few in vitro models of exocrine pancreas development and primary human pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We establish three-dimensional culture conditions to induce the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) into exocrine progenitor organoids that form ductal and acinar structures in culture and in vivo. Expression of mutant KRAS or TP53 in progenitor organoids induces mutation-specific phenotypes in culture and in vivo. Expression of TP53R175H induced cytosolic SOX9 localization. In patient tumors bearing TP53 mutations, SOX9 was cytoplasmic and associated with mortality. Culture conditions are also defined for clonal generation of tumor organoids from freshly resected PDAC. Tumor organoids maintain the differentiation status, histoarchitecture, phenotypic heterogeneity of the primary tumor, and retain patient-specific physiologic changes including hypoxia, oxygen consumption, epigenetic marks, and differential sensitivity to EZH2 inhibition. Thus, pancreatic progenitor organoids and tumor organoids can be used to model PDAC and for drug screening to identify precision therapy strategies.

Citation Format: Ling Huang, Audrey Holtzinger, Ishaan Jagan, Cristina Nostro, Rennian Wang, Lakshmi Muthuswamy, Cheryl Arrowsmith, Sean Cleary, David Schaeffer, Michael Roehrl, Tsao Ming-Sound, Steven Gallinger, Gordon Keller, Senthil Muthuswamy.{Authors}. Ductal pancreatic cancer modeling and drug screening using human pluripotent stem cell and patient-derived tumor organoids. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Pancreatic Cancer: Advances in Science and Clinical Care; 2016 May 12-15; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(24 Suppl):Abstract nr B45.
The Hyperfiltering Kidney in Diabetes
Authors: Trevisan Roberto , Dodesini Alessandro Roberto
Published: December 2016

Hyperfiltering kidney is a typical feature of diabetes. Improvement observed with regard to glucose control and blood pressure control reduces the high glomerular filtration rate and may contribute to retard the appearance and the progression of diabetic renal disease. Although the mechanism of hyperfiltration is still unclear, there is mounting evidence that the increased reabsorption of glucose and sodium by sodium glucose transporter-2 (SGLT-2) is involved in this altered renal function. There is a possibility that SGLT-2 inhibition may correct hyperfiltration in diabetes, adding a new therapeutic approach to halt renal disease in patients with diabetes.
Malignant Transformation of Hepatocellular Adenoma
Authors: Kwok Wing Yee , Hagiwara Satoru , Nishida Naoshi , Watanabe Tomohiro , Sakurai Toshiharu , Ida Hiroshi , Minami Yasunori , Takita Masahiro , Minami Tomohiro , Iwanishi Mina , Chishina Hirokazu , Kono Masashi , Ueshima Kazuomi , Komeda Yoriaki , Arizumi Tadaaki , Enoki Eisuke , Nakai Takuya , Kumabe Tsutomu , Nakashima Osamu , Kondo Fukuo , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: December 2016

The patient was a 20-year-old male in whom a hepatic hypervascular mass accompanied by intratumoral hemorrhage was detected on examination for epigastric pain. Based on the enlargement of the mass and diagnostic imaging, hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) was suspected and hepatectomy was performed. The lesion was diagnosed as malignant transformation of β-catenin-activated HCA. There are only few reports of cases with malignant transformation of HCA in Japan; it is necessary to accumulate cases to investigate it.
AQP5 Variants Affect Tumoral Expression of AQP5 and Survival in Patients with Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Soo Jung , Kang Byung Woog , Kim Jong Gwang , Jung Jin Hyang , Lee Jeeyeon , Kim Wan Wook , Park Ho Yong , Jeong Jae-Hwan , Jeong Ji Yun , Park Ji-Young , Park Jae Hyung , Chae Yee Soo
Published: December 2016

Background: Our previous study showed the association of AQP5 upregulation with cancer proliferation and migration in breast cancer cell lines and with unfavorable prognosis in patients with early breast cancer (EBC). In the current study, we analyzed the association of AQP5 variants or their haplotypes with AQP5 expression and their prognostic impact for survival in patients with EBC. Methods: Three AQP5 polymorphisms (rs74091166, rs3736309, and rs1964676) were selected based on the SNP database and genotyped using the Sequenom MassARRAY in 374 out of 447 patients with EBC in whom AQP5 expression had been investigated in our previous study. Results: The allele frequencies of the selected variants in the current study were similar to those from Asian data previously reported. In a univariate analysis, both rs74091166 and rs1964676 were statistically associated with survival as a dominant model of minor allele. Moreover, a multivariate survival analysis revealed that the CC genotype of rs1964676 is an independent prognostic marker of survival in EBC patients, regardless of stage, tumor subtype, and adjuvant treatment [hazard ratio = 0.399, 0.384, and 0.205; p = 0.021, 0.027, and 0.016 for disease-free survival (DFS), distant DFS, and disease-specific survival, respectively]. In particular, the CT/TT genotype of rs1964676 showed an association with strong expression of AQP5 (58.6 vs. 26.0%; p = 0.001), without any associations with clinical or pathological characteristics including tumor subtype, stage, or histologic grade. Conclusion: The current study suggests AQP5 rs1964676 as a new potential prognostic marker in patients with EBC involved in AQP5 expression.
An Overview of Errors and Flaws of Estimated GFR versus True GFR in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Luis-Lima Sergio , Porrini Esteban
Published: December 2016

The determination of renal function is crucial in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), a population at risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) can be measured (mGFR) with gold standard methods or estimated (eGFR) with formulas. Since 1957, when Effersoe published the first formula, more than 50 equations have been developed to estimate GFR. In this review, we examined the studies that compared mGFR and eGFR in patients with T2DM to analyze the performance of those formulae in this population. In cross-sectional studies, the average error of eGFR was ±30% of mGFR. Thus, in a patient with mGFR of 60 mL/min, eGFR may vary from 42 to 78 mL/min. Moreover, many patients were misclassified according to CKD stages. Formulas failed to detect glomerular hyperfiltration. In longitudinal studies, eGFR poorly reflected real GFR decline over time. All studies showed that eGFR decline was slower than mGFR decline. Notably, no major improvement in accuracy and precision has been observed since 1957 despite the use of cystatin-c. Thus, formulas are not reliable indicators of GFR in patients with T2DM. In clinical studies, where GFR is the main outcome measure of the study, eGFR should be avoided.
Laparoscopic Extravesical Submucosal Tunneling Ureteroneocystostomy Combined with Psoas Hitch for Medium-Length Distal Ureteral Defects in Adults
Authors: Gong Huijie , Lu Yiqin , Yan Yongji , Wu Zhenqi , Gao Wenfeng , Cheng Haisheng , Wu Yabing , Li Yanfeng , Ma Xuetao , Liu Jingbo , Dai Linfeng
Published: December 2016

Objective: This study aims to describe the technique and feasibility of laparoscopic submucosal tunneling ureteroneocystostomy in combination with psoas hitch to restore urinary tract continuity in patients showing medium-length distal ureteral defects. Materials and Methods: From January 2012 to April 2016, a total of 13 patients (4 males and 9 females) with a mean age of 37 years were performed with the laparoscopic operation of ureteral submucosal tunneling reimplantation combined with psoas hitch. The mean defective length was 5.5 cm (range 4-8 cm). The etiologies included ureteral strictures secondary to endoscopic laser lithotripsy in 2 patients, previous gynecological surgeries in 4, infiltrative ureteral endometriosis in 3, as well as ureteral strictures without obvious causes in the remaining 4. Results: The operations were successfully performed in all patients. The mean operating time was 179 min (range 150-230 min). The mean estimated blood loss was 32 mL (range 15-80 mL). The mean drainage time was 5.8 days (range 4-8 days). No major complications occurred during the perioperative period. The mean follow-up time was 25 months. All patients experienced symptomatic relief and showed good urine drainage. Conclusion: Extravesical submucosal tunneling ureteroneocystostomy combined with psoas hitch under laparoscopy is a feasible and effective option for medium-length distal ureteral defects in selected patients.
Hyperglycaemia suppresses microRNA expression in platelets to increase P2RY12 and SELP levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Fejes Zsolt , Póliska Szilárd , Czimmerer Zsolt , Káplár Miklós , Penyige András , Gál Szabó Gabriella , Debreceni Ildikó Beke , Kunapuli Satya P. , Kappelmayer János , Nagy Béla
Published: December 2016

Megakaryocyte (MK)-derived miRNAs have been detected in platelets. Here, we analysed the expression of platelet and circulating miR-223, miR-26b, miR-126 and miR-140 that might be altered with their target mRNAs in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). MiRNAs were isolated from leukocyte-depleted platelets and plasma samples obtained from 28 obese DM2, 19 non-DM obese and 23 healthy individuals. The effect of hyperglycaemia on miRNAs was also evaluated in MKs using MEG-01 and K562 cells under hyperglycaemic conditions after 8 hours up to four weeks. Quantitation of mature miRNA, pre-miRNAs and target mRNA levels (P2RY12 and SELP) were measured by RT-qPCR. To prove the association of miR-26b and miR-140 with SELP (P-selectin) mRNA level, overexpression or inhibition of these miRNAs in MEG-01 MKs was performed using mimics or anti-miRNAs, respectively. The contribution of calpain substrate Dicer to modulation of miRNAs was studied by calpain inhibition. Platelet activation was evaluated via surface P-selectin by flow cytometry. Mature and pre-forms of investigated miRNAs were significantly reduced in DM2, and platelet P2RY12 and SELP mRNA levels were elevated by two-fold at increased platelet activation compared to controls. Significantly blunted miRNA expressions were observed by hyperglycaemia in MEG-01 and K562-MK cells versus baseline values, while the manipulation of miR-26b and miR-140 expression affected SELP mRNA level. Calpeptin pretreatment restored miRNA levels in hyperglycaemic MKs. Overall, miR-223, miR-26b, miR-126 and miR-140 are expressed at a lower level in platelets and MKs in DM2 causing upregulation of P2RY12 and SELP mRNAs that may contribute to adverse platelet function.

Supplementary Material to this article is available online at www.thrombosis-online.com.
Genetic Obesity and the Risk of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Chatterjee Neal A. , Giulianini Franco , Geelhoed Bastiaan , Lunetta Kathryn L. , Misialek Jeffrey R. , Niemeijer Maartje N. , Rienstra Michiel , Rose Lynda M. , Smith Albert V. , Arking Dan E. , Ellinor Patrick T. , Heeringa Jan , Lin Honghuang , Lubitz Steven A. , Soliman Elsayed Z. , Verweij Niek , Alonso Alvaro , Benjamin Emelia J. , Gudnason Vilmundur , Stricker Bruno H. C. , Van Der Harst Pim , Chasman Daniel I. , Albert Christine M.
Published: December 2016

Background:

Observational studies have identified an association between body mass index (BMI) and incident atrial fibrillation (AF). Inferring causality from observational studies, however, is subject to residual confounding, reverse causation, and bias. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the causal association between BMI and AF by using genetic predictors of BMI.

Methods:

We identified 51 646 individuals of European ancestry without AF at baseline from 7 prospective population-based cohorts initiated between 1987 and 2002 in the United States, Iceland, and the Netherlands with incident AF ascertained between 1987 and 2012. Cohort-specific mean follow-up ranged from 7.4 to 19.2 years, over which period there was a total of 4178 cases of incident AF. We performed a Mendelian randomization with instrumental variable analysis to estimate a cohort-specific causal hazard ratio for the association between BMI and AF. Two genetic instruments for BMI were used:
FTO
genotype (rs1558902) and a BMI gene score comprising 39 single-nucleotide polymorphisms identified by genome-wide association studies to be associated with BMI. Cohort-specific estimates were combined by random-effects, inverse variance–weighted meta-analysis.

Results:

In age- and sex-adjusted meta-analysis, both genetic instruments were significantly associated with BMI (
FTO
: 0.43 [95% confidence interval, 0.32–0.54] kg/m
2
per A-allele,
P
<0.001; BMI gene score: 1.05 [95% confidence interval, 0.90–1.20] kg/m
2
per 1-U increase,
P
<0.001) and incident AF (
FTO
, hazard ratio, 1.07 [1.02–1.11] per A-allele,
P
=0.004; BMI gene score, hazard ratio, 1.11 [1.05–1.18] per 1-U increase,
P
<0.001). Age- and sex-adjusted instrumental variable estimates for the causal association between BMI and incident AF were hazard ratio, 1.15 (1.04–1.26) per kg/m
2
,
P
=0.005 (
FTO
) and 1.11 (1.05–1.17) per kg/m
2
,
P
<0.001 (BMI gene score). Both of these estimates were consistent with the meta-analyzed estimate between observed BMI and AF (age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratio 1.05 [1.04–1.06] per kg/m
2
,
P
<0.001). Multivariable adjustment did not significantly change findings.

Conclusions:

Our data are consistent with a causal relationship between BMI and incident AF. These data support the possibility that public health initiatives targeting primordial prevention of obesity may reduce the incidence of AF.
A new species of the genus Diogenes Dana, 1851 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Anomura: Diogenidae) from Gujarat, northwestern India
Authors: TRIVEDI JIGNESHKUMAR N. , OSAWA MASAYUKI , VACHHRAJANI KAURESH D.
Published: December 2016

A new species of diogenid hermit crab, Diogenes chhapgari n. sp., is described on the basis of material collected during the crustacean faunal survey along the coastal areas of the Gujarat State, northwestern India. The new species is referred to the D. edwardsii (De Haan, 1849) species group and appears closest to D. singaporensis Rahayu, 2015. However, D. chhapgari n. sp. is distinguished from this species by the armature on the fourth segment of the antennal peduncle and carpus of the left cheliped.
Two new species of Sphaeronemoura (Plecoptera: Nemouridae) from Oriental China
Authors: LI WEIHAI , YANG JUAN , YANG DING
Published: December 2016

Two new species of the genus Sphaeronemoura of the stonefly family Nemouridae, S. asymmetria sp. n. from Guizhou Province and S. hainana sp. n. from Hainan Province, respectively, are described from China. These findings represent the first record of the genus from these two provinces. Their relationships with other species from adjacent regions are discussed. With the new species described herein, 16 species of Sphaeronemoura are now known.
Increased iron export by ferroportin induces restriction of HIV-1 infection in sickle cell disease
Authors: Kumari Namita , Ammosova Tatiana , Diaz Sharmin , Lin Xionghao , Niu Xiaomei , Ivanov Andrey , Jerebtsova Marina , Dhawan Subhash , Oneal Patricia , Nekhai Sergei
Published: December 2016

Key Points

Ferroportin reduces intracellular iron, inhibits CDK2 and suppresses SAMHD1 phosphorylation thus inhibiting HIV-1 RT. Ferroportin expression leads to overexpression of IKBα and inhibition of HIV-1 transcription.
Acceptance and commitment therapy for psychosis: Randomised controlled trial
Authors: Shawyer Frances , Farhall John , Thomas Neil , Hayes Steven C. , Gallop Robert , Copolov David , Castle David J.
Published: December 2016

Background

The efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in psychosis has been reported but not for medication-resistant psychosis.

Aims

To test the efficacy of ACT in a sample of community-residing patients with persisting psychotic symptoms. (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12608000210370.)

Method

The primary outcome was overall mental state at post-therapy (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale –total); secondary outcomes were psychotic symptom dimensions and functioning. In total, 96 patients were randomised to ACT (n = 49) or befriending (n = 47). Symptom, functioning and process measures were administered at baseline, post-therapy and 6 months later.

Results

There was no group difference on overall mental state. In secondary analyses the ACT group showed greater improvement in positive symptoms and hallucination distress at follow-up: Cohen's d = 0.52 (95% CI 0.07–0.98) and 0.65 (95% CI 0.24–1.06), respectively.

Conclusions

Improvements reflected the treatment focus on positive symptoms; however, absence of process-measure changes suggests that the ACT intervention used did not manipulate targeted processes beyond befriending. Symptom-specific therapy refinements, improved investigation of process and attention to cognitive functioning and dose are warranted in future research.
Predicting Fluid Responsiveness in Acute Liver Failure: A Prospective Study
Authors: Audimoolam Vinod Kumar , McPhail Mark J. W. , Willars Chris , Bernal William , Wendon Julia A. , Cecconi Maurizio , Auzinger Georg
Published: December 2016

BACKGROUND:

The profound hemodynamic changes seen in acute liver failure (ALF) resemble the hyperdynamic state found in the later stages of septic shock. Vasopressor support frequently is required after initial volume therapy. Markers of preload dependency have not been studied in this patient group. Dynamic maneuvers such as passive leg raising or end-expiratory hold, which have shown good predictive accuracy in a general intensive care unit population, cannot be considered safe in this cohort because of the concerns of intracranial hypertension.

METHODS:

Mechanically ventilated patients with ALF admitted to a tertiary specialist intensive care unit in shock and multiorgan failure were enrolled. Markers of fluid responsiveness derived from transpulmonary thermodilution, pulse contour analysis, and echocardiography were compared between responders (cardiac index ≥15%) and nonresponders to a colloid fluid challenge (5 mL/kg predicted body weight). The ability to predict fluid responsiveness of stroke volume variation, pulse pressure variation (PPV), and respiratory change in peak (delta V peak) left ventricular outflow tract velocity for preload dependency were analyzed.

RESULTS:

Thirty-five patients (mean ± SD age, 38 [14] years, 13 male, 22 female]) were assessed after a single fluid challenge. Ten patients (29%) were fluid responders. Changes in cardiac index and stroke volume index in the cohort of 35 patients were correlated (R = 0.726 [99% confidence interval, 0.401–0.910]; P < .001). PPV predicted fluid responsiveness (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUROC], 0.752 [95% confidence interval, 0.565–0.889]; P = .005; cutoff >9%). The AUROC for stroke volume variation was 0.678 ([95% confidence interval, 0.499–0.825]; P = .084; cutoff >11%). The AUROC for [delta] V peak before fluid bolus was 0.637 (95% confidence interval, 0.413–0.825; P = .322).

CONCLUSIONS:

PPV based on pulse contour analysis predicted fluid responsiveness in ALF.
Dynamic Ultrasound-Guided Short-Axis Needle Tip Navigation Technique for Facilitating Cannulation of Peripheral Veins in Obese Patients
Authors: Ueda Kenichi , Hussey Patrick
Published: December 2016

This preliminary observational study evaluated a specific ultrasound technique for venous access. Ultrasound was utilized for navigating a needle and catheter within the vessel lumen after venopuncture. One hundred adult obese surgical patients without visible vessels on their upper extremities were enrolled. Forty-five different operators ranging from medical students to attending anesthesia faculty performed venous cannulation with the specific ultrasound technique. Veins in 95 patients were cannulated successfully on the first attempt. This ultrasound-guided protocol facilitates navigation of both the catheter and needle within a vessel, increasing the first-attempt success rate of peripheral venous cannulation in adult obese patients.
Hawthorne’s Distillery: Time and Temperance in “The Birth-Mark” And Other Tales
Authors: Marsh Clayton
Published: December 2016

Drawing on a wide range of temperance reform literature, this essay examines the temporal dimensions of America’s antebellum crusade against alcohol and their remarkably complex treatment in the tales of Nathaniel Hawthorne. The inebriates in Hawthorne’s tales are not necessarily drinkers (the writer’s fondness for drink is well known), but rather those reformers and idealists who, in their zeal for perfection, seek to obliterate the past. In his richest portrait of this temporal intemperance, “The Birth-Mark” (1843), Hawthorne portrays the perilous nature and effects of the cultural amnesia that flows from America’s intoxicating confidence in the transformative power of industrial technology. To counter the temporal imbalance of an industrializing nation drunk with the spirit of innovation, Hawthorne’s “temperance” tales ultimately offer a distillation of time that transports the reader into a fluid realm of temporal ambiguity where past, present, and future converge. Reaching far beyond its reformist connotations, “temperance” ultimately proves to be a seminal metaphor for the imaginative state of temporal equilibrium that Hawthorne would achieve as a writer of historical romances.
About Ultrasonic Inspection of Work Pieces and Products from Carbon-Carbon Composite Materials
Authors: Беркутов  , Berkutov Igor , Быченок  , Bychenok Vladimir , Майоров  , Mayorov Aleksandr
Published: December 2016

Introduction. Carbon-carbon composite products feature high strength at temperatures up to 3000 C, resistance to aggressive environments, mechanical reliability and relatively low density. Up to now, there are no NDT established procedures for assessing the quality of composite products and their compliance with the technical requirements. Nowadays composites know-how can not guarantee the specified requirements. The paper provides the estimation of the composites ultrasonic testing equipment and procedure. Method. Subjected to studies were samples made a) in compliance with the required production technology, b) to ensure low mechanical properties, c) to ensure wrong frame geometry. An electronic module and transducers were developed so that a shadow method of sample examination in 3 orthogonal planes could be used. Subjected to studies were samples made a) in compliance with the required production technology, b) to ensure low mechanical properties, c) to ensure wrong frame geometry. An electronic module and transducers were developed so that a shadow method of sample examination in 3 orthogonal planes could be used. Results. The paper provides an analysis of relations between ultrasonic wave propagation velocity, signal amplitude, and the spectral maximum. It has been shown that a 200-500 kHz signal is appropriate to test all available samples, whereas a 400-500 kHz signal provides more information on the product and its defects. Defective samples shift the spectrum maximum to lower frequencies which can be used as the product rejection criterion. Possible directions in the further studies to improve the measurement accuracy have been emphasized. Conclusions. The findings show good opening for the carbon-carbon composites acoustic NDT.
Making Sense of (Ultra) Low-Cost Flights Vertical Differentiation in Two-Sided Markets
Authors: Serio Luigi , Tedeschi Piero , Ursino Giovanni
Published: December 2016

The business model of low-cost carriers is now well established and accounts for a large share of Western civil aviation, particularly in Europe. To understand why it has proven so successful, we develop a theoretical model that exploits the two-sided nature of flights as connectors of supply and demand for goods and services other than traveling itself across physical space. Carriers offer flights of different quality and may sign agreements with suppliers of goods and services at the destination so as to subsidize and foster demand from the carriers’ travelers as in standard two-sided markets. Customers/travelers care about home and destination consumption and about the flight’s quality. Hence, beyond the thickness of the connected sides of the market, the quality of the airline platform has an intrinsic value to travelers. We show that only low-income travelers fly with low-cost airlines, while no-frills carriers are more likely to act as a platform than legacy airlines. We study how the degree of substitution between home and destination consumption affects the equilibrium market structure of the airline industry.

This paper was accepted by Bruno Cassiman, business strategy.
A Generalization of the Borkar-Meyn Theorem for Stochastic Recursive Inclusions
Authors: Ramaswamy Arunselvan , Bhatnagar Shalabh
Published: December 2016

In this paper, the stability theorem of Borkar and Meyn is extended to include the case when the mean field is a set-valued map. Two different sets of sufficient conditions are presented that guarantee the “stability and convergence” of stochastic recursive inclusions. Our work builds on the works of Benaïm, Hofbauer and Sorin as well as Borkar and Meyn. As a corollary to one of the main theorems, a natural generalization of the Borkar and Meyn theorem follows. In addition, the original theorem of Borkar and Meyn is shown to hold under slightly relaxed assumptions. As an application to one of the main theorems, we discuss a solution to the “approximate drift problem.” Finally, we analyze the stochastic gradient algorithm with “constant-error gradient estimators” as yet another application of our main result.
Afección de las autovías a su entorno rural: Extremadura
Authors: Pérez Díaz Antonio , Romo Berlana Jorge Juan , Sánchez Fernández Manuel
Published: December 2016

La relación entre el transporte terrestre, y más específicamente el transporte por carretera a través de vías de gran capacidad o autovías, ha sido ampliamente estudiada desde la órbita urbana, por cuanto que éstas se estructuran como red de conexión de grandes núcleos a pesar de que discurren inevitablemente por territorio rural, como es el caso de la comunidad autónoma de Extremadura. Surge el interrogante de qué pasa con los pequeños núcleos ubicados al lado de estos corredores de transporte cuyo diseño se acometió a sus espaldas. Se estudia, por ello, cómo pueden ser afectados una serie de parámetros de territorios claramente rurales según su cercanía a una autovía. Los resultados indican distintos comportamientos de entornos rurales asociados a su grado de accesibilidad a una red de autovías.
La erosión histórica de la playa de sa Ràpita (S. Mallorca)
Authors: Martín Prieto José Ángel , Roig Munar Francesc Xavier , Rodríguez Perea Antonio , Mir Gual Miquel , Pons Buades Guillem Xavier , Gelabert Ferrer Bernardí
Published: December 2016

La evolución morfosedimentaria de la playa de sa Ràpita (Sur de Mallorca) se ha visto afectada a partir de la construcción, en 1977, del puerto deportivo ubicado en su extremo NO. La consecuencia más importante ha sido la modificación de la deriva litoral, ya que el puerto actúa como trampa sedimentaria. Este hecho impide que el sedimento pueda distribuirse a lo largo de la playa, como ocurría antes de su construcción. La playa ha sufrido procesos erosivos importantes a partir de 1977 hasta la actualidad. Así, a partir de esa fecha, el sector más próximo al puerto deportivo ha aumentado su superficie con una media de 0.5 m/a, mientras que el resto de la playa se erosiona con una media de entre -0.19 y -0.34 m/a. El estudio se ha realizado con la ayuda de un Sistema de Información Geográfica y con la herramienta Digital Shoreline Analysis System, que permite cuantificar los procesos erosivos a lo largo de un periodo comprendido entre los años 1956 y 2012.
Gibt es einen Wachstumszwang durch das Geldsystem?
Authors: Duscha Markus
Published: December 2016

Unser heutiges Geldsystem scheint isoliert betrachtet keinen direkten Wachstumszwang zu verursachen. Der systemische Zusammenhang des Geldsystems mit anderen Treibern wirtschaftlichen Wachstums sollte hingegen genauer untersucht werden.
20 Jahre Umweltbewusstseinsstudie
Authors: Gossen Maike , Scholl Gerd
Published: December 2016

Neueste Erkenntnisse aus einem umweltpolitisch bedeutsamen Forschungsfeld
Die Messung von nachhaltigem Konsumbewusstsein
Authors: Ziesemer Florence , Peyer Matthias , Klemm Alexandra , Balderjahn Ingo
Published: December 2016

Nachhaltigkeit wird häufig als Gleichgewicht von ökologischen, sozialen und ökonomischen Bedingungen gedacht, die zur Zukunftssicherung erforderlich sind. Um diesen Anspruch auch im Konsum zu verankern, braucht es bei Verbrauchern ein ganzheitliches Nachhaltigkeitsbewusstsein – und entsprechende Messansätze, die über das Umweltbewusstsein hinausgehen.
A competing motivation
Authors: Thronicker Ines
Published: December 2016

Although environmental awareness is a strong motivation, even for highly engaged individuals it has to compete with other motivations in guiding behaviour. A process-oriented approach to this dilemma allows for alternative behaviour and continuous engagement. That approach might be transferred also to organizational units.
Cigaratte use frequency of Healthcare Services Vocational School of Higher Education students
Sağlık Hizmetleri Meslek Yüksekokulu öğrencilerinde sigara kullanım sıklığı
Authors: Saka Günay , Şen Mehmet Ali , Yakıt Eda
Published: December 2016

Our study is planned for determining cigaratte use frequency of Dicle University Healthcare Services Vocational School of Higher Education students and factors affecting this situation. Our study is a descriptive-sectional research and it was executed between October 2015 and March 2016. Sample of the study includes 209 underclassmen and sophomore students who are voluntary, still attend classes and registered to the Vocational School. Data is acquired by using a questionaire of 34 questions. Statistical evaluation is done by using SPSS 16.0 packaged software.Most of students who participated to our study were between 20-24 (48,8%) years old. 18,2% of the participants used cigarattes continiously and 6,2% of them used cigarattes few times a week or smoked only in social environments. It is detected that 52,2% of participants which are using cigarattes have medium level or higher levels of addiction. It is determined that 86,3% of users don’t want their children to smoke. It is detected that 73,7% of users tried to quit at least once throughout their lives. After all, it cannot be said that students who will be serving as counsellors and providers of healthcare to society in the future have low rates of smoking. It can be said that studies which lower smoking rates in students are needed. ÖzetAraştırmamız, Dicle Üniversitesi, Atatürk Sağlık Hizmetleri MYO öğrencilerinin sigara kullanma sıklığının ve bunu etkileyen faktörlerin saptanması amacıyla planlanmıştır.Araştırmamız, tanımlayıcı-kesitsel tipte bir çalışma olup,  Ekim 2015 ile Mart 2016 tarihleri arasında gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmanın örneklemi,  Meslek Yüksekokuluna halen kayıtlı 320 öğrencilerden katılmaya gönüllü olarak kabul eden 209 öğrenci oluşturmuştur. Veriler 34 soruluk anket formu kullanılarak elde edilmiştir. İstatistiki değerlendirme SPSS 16,0 paket programı ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmamıza katılan öğrencilerin büyük çoğunluğu 20-24 yaş (%48,8) arasındaydı. Katılımcıların  %18,2‘si ise sürekli ve %6,2’si haftada birkaç kez veya sosyal ortamlarda sigara kullanmaktaydı. Sigara içen katılımcıların %52,6’sı orta ve daha üzeri bağımlılığa sahip olduğu saptandı. Sigara içenlerin %86,3’ü çocuklarının asla sigara içmesini istemediği belirlendi. Sigara kullananların %73,7’si hayatları boyunca en az bir kez sigara bırakmayı denediği saptandı. Sonuç olarak gelecekte topluma sağlık hizmeti ve danışmanlığı verecek olan öğrencilerin sigara içme oranlarının düşük olduğu söylenemez. Sigara kullanma oranlarını öğrencilerde azaltacak çalışmalara gerek duyulduğu söylenebilir.