bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunoglobulin G4‐related kidney disease: Pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment
Authors: Zheng Ke , Teng Fei , Li Xue‐Mei
Published: July 2017

Immunoglobulin G4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) is a recently recognized clinical entity that often involves multiple organs; it is characterized by high levels of serum immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4), dense infiltration of IgG4+ cells, and storiform fibrosis. Cellular immunity, particularly T cell‐mediated immunity, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of IgG4‐RD. The most frequent renal manifestations of IgG4‐RD are IgG4‐related tubulointerstitial nephritis, membranous glomerulonephropathy (MGN), and obstructive nephropathy secondary to urinary tract obstruction due to IgG4‐related retroperitoneal fibrosis, prostatitis, or ureter inflammation. Kidney function impairment can be acute or chronic. In IgG4‐MGN, proteinuria can be in the nephrotic range. The diagnosis of IgG4‐related kidney disease should not be based solely on serum IgG4 levels or the number of tissue‐infiltrating IgG4+ plasma cells. Diagnosis should be based on specific histopathological findings, confirmed by tissue immunostaining and an appropriate clinical context. Steroid treatment is the first‐line therapy. For relapsing or refractory cases, immunosuppressants could be combined with steroids. In hydronephrosis patients, appropriate immunosuppressive therapy could preclude the implantation of a double J ureteral catheter.
Potential role of thymosin beta 4 in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Jiang Yong , Han Tao , Zhang Zhi‐Guang , Li Man , Qi Feng‐Xiang , Zhang Ying , Ji Ying‐Lan
Published: July 2017

As a result of increased prevalence of obesity worldwide, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease. Although most NAFLD cases remain benign, some progress to end‐stage liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, treatment should be considered for NAFLD patients who are likely to progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or fibrosis. Thymosin beta 4 (Tβ4), a G‐actin sequestering peptide, regulates actin polymerization in mammalian cells. In addition, studies have reported anti‐inflammatory, insulin‐sensitizing, and anti‐fibrotic effects of Tβ4. However, no research has been done to investigate the effects of Tβ4 on NAFLD. Based on the findings above mentioned, we hypothesize that Tβ4 may represent an effective treatment for NAFLD.
Hemoglobins emerging roles in mental disorders. Metabolical, genetical and immunological aspects
Authors: Altinoz Meric A. , Ince Bahri
Published: July 2017

Hemoglobin (Hb) expression in the central nervous system is recently shown. Cooccurences of mental disorders (mainly bipolar disorder (BD) and tic disorders) with β‐ or α‐thalassemia trait or erythrocytosis were witnessed, which may be due to peripheral or central hypoxia/hyperoxia or haplotypal gene interactions. β‐Globin genes reside at 11p15.5 close to tyrosine hydroxylase, dopamine receptor DRD4 and Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor, which involve in psychiatric diseases. α‐Globin genes reside at 16p13.3 which associates with BD, tic disorders, ATR‐16 Syndrome and Rubinstein Taybi Syndrome (RTS). CREB‐Binding Protein (CEBBP)‐gene is mutated in RTS, which commonly associates with mood disorders. 16p13.3 region also contains GRIN2A gene encoding N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor‐2A and SSTR5 (Somatostatin Receptor‐5), again involving in mental disorders. We demonstrated a protective role of minor HbA2 against post‐partum episodes in BD and association of higher minor HbF (fetal hemoglobin) levels with family history of psychosis in a BD‐patient cohort. HbA2 increases in cardiac ischemia and in mountain dwellers indicating its likely protection against ischemia/hypoxia. HMGIY, a repressive transcription factor of δ‐globin chain of HbA2 is increased in lymphocytes of schizophrenics. In autism, deletional mutations were found in BCL11A gene, which cause persistence of HbF at high levels in adulthood. Also, certain polymorphisms in BCL11A strongly associate with schizophrenia. Further, many drugs from anabolic steroids to antimalarial agents elevate HbF and may cause mania. We ascribe a protective role to HbA2 and a maladaptive detrimental role to HbF in psychopathology. We believe that future studies on hemoglobins may pave to discover novel pathogenesis mechanisms in mental disorders.
Physical activity modifies the influence of apolipoprotein E ε4 allele and type 2 diabetes on dementia and cognitive impairment among older Mexican Americans
Authors: Shih I‐Fan , Paul Kimberly , Haan Mary , Yu Yu , Ritz Beate
Published: July 2017

Introduction

The etiologies of dementia are complex and influenced by genetic and environmental factors including medical conditions.

Methods

We used Cox regression model to estimate the individual and joint effects of physical activity (PA), apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4, and diabetes status on risk of dementia and cognitive impairment without dementia (CIND) among 1438 cognitively intact Mexican American elderly who were followed up to 10 years.

Results

The risk of developing dementia/CIND was increased more than threefold in APOE ε4 carriers or diabetics with low levels of PA compared with ε4 noncarriers or nondiabetics who engaged in high PA (ε4: hazard ratio [HR] = 3.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.85–6.39; diabetes: HR = 3.11, 95% CI = 1.87–5.18); the presence of all three risk factors increased risk by nearly 10‐fold (HR = 9.49, 95% CI = 3.57–25.3).

Discussion

PA in elderly Hispanics protects strongly against the onset of dementia/CIND, especially in APOE ε4 carriers and those who have diabetes.
Stimulated Raman scattering excited by incoherent light in plasma
Authors: Zhao Yao , Weng Suming , Chen Min , Zheng Jun , Zhuo Hongbin , Sheng Zhengming
Published: July 2017

Stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) excited by incoherent light is studied via particle-in-cell simulations. It is shown that a large bandwidth of incoherent light can reduce the growth of SRS and electron heating considerably in the linear stage. However, different components of the incoherent light can be coupled by the Langmuir waves, so that stimulated Raman backward scattering can develop. When the bandwidth of incoherent light is larger than the Langmuir wave frequency, forward SRS can be seeded between different components of the incoherent light. The incoherent light can only increase the time duration for nonlinear saturation but cannot diminish the saturation level obviously.
Biocomposites: Industry continues to invest in new facilities and chases for GreenPremium
Authors: Partanen Asta
Published: July 2017

Composite materials are, as the name suggests, a combination of at least two materials. Materials such as plastics, ceramics or metals are reinforced with different fiber or woven materials. Fiber reinforced plastic composites belong to the group of fiber reinforced composites, and both of these belong to the higher category of composite materials.
Changing the paradigm of transportation: Lightweight composites used in solar car in intercollegiate competition
Authors: Howell Elizabeth , Neal Dylan , Kieffer Dakota
Published: July 2017

Reinforced Plastics spoke to Dylan Neal, the Project Director of Team PrISUm Solar Car from Iowa State University, and Dakota Kieffer, Director of Sales and Marketing, Plastics Unlimited, about the PrISUm solar car project.
Morphotectonic inversion in the Tunka rift basin (southwestern Baikal region)
Authors: Shchetnikov A.A.
Published: July 2017

The general basement subsidence trend in the Tunka rift is locally interrupted by uplift (basin inversion). The inversion uplift causes deformation to basin sediments and shows up in the surface topography as morphostructures of two types. Inversion in the area is either part of rifting, when the subsidence-to-uplift change is driven by the rifting mechanism, or perturbs the rifting trend as superposed Gobi-type mountain growth, but is never associated with change from continental rifting to other tectonic setting. The presence of buried erosion cutouts in the rift valley floor indicates that wave-like vertical motions, with erosion during uplift and deposition in the erosion cutouts during subsidence, superpose on differentiated (orogenic) motions. The latest phase of basin inversion acted in the Tunka rift in the second half of the Late Pleistocene-Holocene, and the amount of uplift varied from a few tens to a few hundreds of meters. The highest 300 m uplift was in the Tor rift basin, as estimated from relative elevation of its ~ 55 kyr sediments. In general, inversion uplift occurred over 40% of the Tunka basin area (872 km2 of 2240 km2), and about 450 km2 of this uplift (49% of the uplifted area or 20% of the rift valley floor) grew by the Gobi-type mechanism. Quaternary sediments lie with a hiatus upon the Neogene strata in almost all sedimentary sections of basin margins, thus indicating that the deposition area reduced for a long period in the rift history and reached the former extent only in the earliest Late Pleistocene.
A continuum model of present-day crustal deformation in the Pamir–Tien Shan region constrained by GPS data
Authors: Mansurov A.N.
Published: July 2017

We present a new model of crustal deformation in the Pamir–Tien Shan region. There are two different ways of assessing the deformation: block and continuum modeling. In this study we adopt a continuum modeling approach, which is based on computation of the two-dimensional strain rate tensor field of the Earth’s crust. This approach allows independent computation of the deformation at any point of the computation grid by solving an over-constrained system of linear algebraic equations based on the linear term of the Taylor series expansion of the point velocity function about its radius-vector. We propose a detailed description of this method including a significance criterion introduced by the author for estimating the reliability of modeling results. We discuss the parameters of this deformation model for the Pamir–Tien Shan region, computed from the GPS velocity data measured at 506 sites of the Central Asian GPS network. The most distinctive features of the estimated strain field are N–S shortening of the largest basins in the Tien Shan and at the junction between the Pamir and Tien Shan, as well as the westward motion of the eastern and western boundaries of the Pamir relative to the Tarim plate and Tajik depression.
Geoelectrochemical detection of PGE content anomalies within the Svetlyi Bor massif (Central Urals)
Authors: Putikov O.F. , Senchina N.P. , Talovina I.V. , Duryagina A.M. , Telegin Yu.M. , Nikiforova V.S.
Published: July 2017

Experimental and methodological works were carried out by the thermomagnetic geochemical method (TMGM), one of geoelectrochemical methods, within the Svetlyi Bor platiniferous massif (Central Urals). We have analyzed the results of observation along two (search and test) profiles. The known distribution of platinum contents along the ditch in the test profile confirmed the effectiveness of the used method and made it possible to recognize the best indicators of platinum from the geoelectrochemical research data. The obtained results helped to reveal PGE-promising areas and suggested the presence of deep-seated “blind” orebodies.
Dielectric and radio-frequency emission parameters of formation and condensate waters from gas wells
Authors: Epov M.I. , Men’shikov S.N. , Kharitonov A.N. , Romanov A.N. , Permyakov V.S. , Bortnikova S.B. , Yurkevich N.V.
Published: July 2017

A comprehensive study of water samples from the Medvezh’e, Yubileinoe, and Yamsoveiskoe oil-gas condensate fields was performed for the rapid identification of liquids from gas wells. The proportions of condensate, formation, and process waters in the produced mixture were assumed on the basis of their physicochemical parameters and chemical composition. Their dielectric parameters were studied at a frequency of 0.6 GHz. Dependences of the dielectric and radio emission parameters on the total salinity and concentrations of major cations have been established. Algorithms for identifying different types of well water based on their dielectric parameters are proposed.
Determination of corner frequencies of source spectra for subduction earthquakes in Avacha Gulf (Kamchatka)
Authors: Skorkina A.A. , Gusev A.A.
Published: July 2017

The source spectra of M = 4.0–6.5 subduction earthquakes of 2011–2014 in Kamchatka are studied. The dataset comprises 1272 source spectra recovered from S waves of 372 earthquakes recorded by six digital rock-ground stations. The structure of the spectra is examined on the basis of a spectral model with three corner frequencies fc1, fc2, and fc3. It was assumed that the spectra behave as f–2 between fc2 and fc3, where fc3 denotes “source-controlled fmax” after Aki and Gusev. To determine the corner frequencies, we extracted the source spectra from S-wave spectra using a previously developed attenuation model for the study area. The spectra were first reduced to the reference hard-rock station, employing a specially determined set of spectral amplifications of stations. We approximated the recovered source spectrum by a piecewise power-law function, estimated fc1, fc2, and fc3, and examined their dependence on the seismic moment M0 (i.e., scaling). The dependence fc1(M0) does not contradict the hypothesis of source similarity when one expects fc1 ∝ M0− 1/3. For fc2 and fc3, the scaling is close to fc2 ∝ M0− 0.23 and fc3 ∝ M0− 0.13, respectively, indicating a clear violation of the similarity, especially prominent for fc3. Systematic identification of the frequency fc3, its determination, and analysis of its scaling are the main results of the study, important for understanding the physics of earthquake source processes. The use of fc3 as a source parameter in strong ground motion simulations will eliminate biases in estimating attenuation parameters, in particular, the spectral decay parameter “kappa”.
Present thermal regime of Lake Atomic (Semipalatinsk test site)
Authors: Ayunov D.E. , Duchkov A.D. , Kazantsev S.A. , Romanenko V.V. , Subbotin S.B.
Published: July 2017

We present results of the first research into the thermal regime of the water column of man-made Lake Atomic (Semipalatinsk test site) performed in 2013–2015. The temperature data have shown a two-layer stratification of the water column. In the upper layer (0–30 m) there are significant yearly temperature variations caused by seasonal climatic changes and wind–wave mixing. In the lower layer (30–80 m) there is a stable nonlinear temperature distribution. This lake can be classified as meromictic, whose upper layer consists of weakly mineralized “light” water and lower one, of highly mineralized “heavy” water. This stratification prevents seasonal mixing of waters of the entire column (from surface to bottom).
Plataforma para el registro de nefrolitotomía percutánea interinstitucional
Authors: Solano Mendoza Catalina , Ortiz Alfredo , Serrano Adolfo , Rueda Raúl , Tarazona Nick
Published: July 2017

Introducción Las opciones para el tratamiento de cálculos renales son: la litotripcia extracorpórea, la ureterorrenoscopia flexible y la nefrolitotomía percutánea (NLP). Se ha visto que a pesar del advenimiento de nuevas tecnologías y técnicas quirúrgicas, la NLP sigue presentando una importante tasa de complicaciones, por lo que es necesario la estandarización de la técnica y la escogencia adecuada de los pacientes.

Metodología Se realizó una búsqueda de la literatura en Pubmed sin límite de fecha en la que se tuviera en cuenta palabras claves como: registro de NLP, sistemas de puntuación en NLP, características preoperatorias tenidas en cuenta en NLP. Posteriormente se socializaron dichas variables con expertos en el tema, creando una plataforma que permitiera el registro de los pacientes a quienes se les realizó NLP en el país.

Resultados Se desarrolló una plataforma web para el registro a través de dispositivos móviles, tabletas, celulares, etc. de todos los pacientes a quienes se les realizó NLP en instituciones como: FOSCAL, Fundación Santa Fé de Bogotá y Clínica Chicamocha. Una vez ingresado los datos, estos se enviaron automáticamente a una base de datos consignados en una hoja tipo Excel. Por último se creó una red de especialistas para la participación virtual por medio de la misma.

Conclusiones El registro nacional de NLP es un estudio en tiempo real y de fácil acceso que permite obtener datos relevantes de los pacientes a quienes se les realiza NLP en varias instituciones del país. Adicionalmente proporcionará bases para la creación de estudios multicéntricos y publicaciones de literatura colombiana.
Species assemblages and community structure of deep-sea demersal ichthyofauna of the South-eastern Arabian Sea (SEAS)
Authors: Sileesh M. S. , Alphi K. , Harish K. C. , Viji V.
Published: July 2017

Studies of species assemblages and community structure are of vital importance in the deep-sea realm. Data for the present study were collected during the research expedition of FORV ‘Sagar Sampada’ in the latitude 8.02°N and 11.58°N, longitude 74.16°E and 78.35°E. High Speed Demersal Trawl – Crustacean Version (HSDT-CV) was used for the operations at a depth of 200 and 1000 m. The total catch came to 2148.35 kg from 10 stations. An analysis of the catch composition was made. Total catch was dominated by Priacanthus hamrur (27.66%) followed by Neoepinnula orientalis (15.57%), Psenopsis cyanea (10.05%), Glyptophidium oceanium (3.55%), Lamprogrammus niger (3.17%), Narcine timlei (3.08%), Lamprogrammus sp. (2.6%), Pterigotrygla hemisticta (2.17%). About 76 species recorded from 22 orders were identified. The diversity indices, Cluster analysis, k-dominance plot were analysed using PRIMER v6 software. The diversity indices including Margalef richness index (d), Shanon index (log e2), Pielou's evenness index (J′) and Simpson diversity index (1 − λ) were calculated. Diversity indices were compared with the previous studies in the same area, and this can be a reference point for future studies.
Description and validation of a new automated surveillance system for Clostridium difficile in Denmark
Authors: CHAINE M. , GUBBELS S. , VOLDSTEDLUND M. , KRISTENSEN B. , NIELSEN J. , ANDERSEN L. P. , ELLERMANN-ERIKSEN S. , ENGBERG J. , HOLM A. , OLESEN B. , SCHØNHEYDER H.C. , ØSTERGAARD C. , ETHELBERG S. , MØLBAK K.
Published: July 2017

The surveillance of Clostridium difficile (CD) in Denmark consists of laboratory based data from Departments of Clinical Microbiology (DCMs) sent to the National Registry of Enteric Pathogens (NREP). We validated a new surveillance system for CD based on the Danish Microbiology Database (MiBa). MiBa automatically collects microbiological test results from all Danish DCMs. We built an algorithm to identify positive test results for CD recorded in MiBa. A CD case was defined as a person with a positive culture for CD or PCR detection of toxin A and/or B and/or binary toxin. We compared CD cases identified through the MiBa-based surveillance with those reported to NREP and locally in five DCMs representing different Danish regions. During 2010–2014, NREP reported 13 896 CD cases, and the MiBa-based surveillance 21 252 CD cases. There was a 99·9% concordance between the local datasets and the MiBa-based surveillance. Surveillance based on MiBa was superior to the current surveillance system, and the findings show that the number of CD cases in Denmark hitherto has been under-reported. There were only minor differences between local data and the MiBa-based surveillance, showing the completeness and validity of CD data in MiBa. This nationwide electronic system can greatly strengthen surveillance and research in various applications.
Protecting Water Resources Through a Focus on Headwater Streams
Authors: Abbott Benjamin , Pinay Gilles , Burt Tim
Published: July 2017

Where Land Becomes Stream: Connecting Spatial and Temporal Scales to Better Understand and Manage Catchment Ecosystems; Rennes, France, 7–8 March 2017
Where Are the Electrical Currents in the Enceladus Plume?
Authors: Zastrow Mark
Published: July 2017

A plume of water ice that escapes Saturn’s moon Enceladus should be coursing with electrical currents, but data are mixed. Now simulations suggest that a sticky dust cloud may shield signals.
Bimetallic thin film NiCo–NiCoO2@NC as a superior bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting in alkaline media
Authors: Xiao Yun , Zhang Pengfang , Zhang Xin , Dai Xiaoping , Ma Yangde , Wang Yao , Jiang Yan , Liu Mengzhao , Wang Yue
Published: July 2017

Bimetallic thin film NiCo–NiCoO2@NC exhibits a synergy of two active metals – Ni and Co, achieving excellent activity for both the HER and OER.
Principles of doping ceria for the solar thermochemical redox splitting of H2O and CO2
Authors: Muhich Christopher , Steinfeld Aldo
Published: July 2017

Improved solar thermochemical gas splitting performance of ceria via doping requires straining dopant-O bonds, other mechanisms cannot store sufficient energy.
An advanced construction strategy of all-solid-state lithium batteries with excellent interfacial compatibility and ultralong cycle life
Authors: Zhang Zhihua , Zhao Yanran , Chen Shaojie , Xie Dongjiu , Yao Xiayin , Cui Ping , Xu Xiaoxiong
Published: July 2017

The inferior cycle performance of All-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) resulting from the low mixed ionic and electronic conductivity in the electrodes, as well as the large interfacial resistance between the electrodes and the electrolyte have been optimized in this work.
Electrodeposited cobalt phosphide superstructures for solar-driven thermoelectrocatalytic overall water splitting
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhu Liangliang , Dharan Gokul , Ho Ghim Wei
Published: July 2017

Facilitated by supplementary thermal energy converted from sustainable solar irradiance, the electrocatalytic water splitting kinetics of cobalt phosphide superstructures are considerably enhanced.
A novel synthetic route to cathode materials for Li–S batteries: from organic sulfides to sulfur/nitrogenous carbon composites
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Zhen-Bo , Yang Minghui , Li Chao , Gu Da-Ming
Published: July 2017

Through a calcination and anin situoxidation process, a nitrogenous carbon coated sulfur composite is synthesized from an organic sulfide.
The effect of hyperbranched poly(acrylic acid)s on the morphology and size of precipitated nanoscale (fluor)hydroxyapatite
Authors: Shallcross Laura , Roche Kevin , Wilcock Caroline J. , Stanton Kenneth T. , Swift Thomas , Rimmer Stephen , Hatton Paul V. , Spain Sebastian G.
Published: July 2017

Hydroxyapatite and fluorhydroxyapatite (F)HA nanoparticles were synthesised in the presence of branched poly(acrylic acid)s and compared to those synthesised in the presence of linear PAA.
Fullerenes in biology and medicine
Authors: Castro Edison , Garcia Andrea Hernandez , Zavala Gerardo , Echegoyen Luis
Published: July 2017

Fullerenes and related carbon based derivatives have shown a growing relevance in biology and medicine, mainly due to the unique electronic and structural properties that make them excellent candidates for multiple functionalization.
Muscling in on mitochondrial sexual dimorphism; role of mitochondrial dimorphism in skeletal muscle health and disease
Authors: Nye Gareth A. , Sakellariou Giorgos K. , Degens Hans , Lightfoot Adam P.
Published: July 2017

Mitochondria are no longer solely regarded as the cellular powerhouse; instead, they are now implicated in mediating a wide-range of cellular processes, in the context of health and disease. A recent article in Clinical Science, Ventura-Clapier et al. highlights the role of sexual dimorphism in mitochondrial function in health and disease. However, we feel the authors have overlooked arguably one of the most mitochondria-rich organs in skeletal muscle. Many studies have demonstrated that mitochondria have a central role in mediating the pathogenesis of myopathologies. However, the impact of sexual dimorphism in this context is less clear, with several studies reporting conflicting observations. For instance in ageing studies, a rodent model reported female muscles have higher antioxidant capacity compared with males; in contrast, human studies demonstrate no sex difference in mitochondrial bioenergetics and oxidative damage. These divergent observations highlight the importance of considering models and methods used to examine mitochondrial function, when interpreting these data. The use of either isolated or intact mitochondrial preparations in many studies appears likely to be a source of discord, when comparing many studies. Overall, it is now clear that more research is needed to determine if sexual dimorphism is a contributing factor in the development of myopathologies.
Effect of aluminium on the microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast magnesium–manganese alloys
Authors: Yu Zhengwen , Hu Mengdie , Tang Aitao , Wu Mingsong , He Jiejun , Gao Zhengyuan , Wang Fangyuan , Li Caiyu , Chen Bin , Liu Jianguo
Published: July 2017

In this paper, the effect of aluminium on microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast magnesium–manganese alloy has been investigated by means of X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results reveal that various Al–Mn intermetallic compounds form with an increase of Al content. As a result, microstructure of AM11 alloy has been effectively refined due to the formation of Al8Mn5 phase along the grain boundary, while Al addition is explained as the main reason on refining the microstructure of AM91 alloy due to its higher grain growth restriction factor value of ∼4.32. The tensile yield strength (TYS) has been improved steadily from 27.4 to 122.9 MPa with increasing Al content, because of the combined effects of grain boundary strengthening, solid solution strengthening and precipitation hardening behaviours.
Estimating the Location of World Wheat Price Discovery
Authors: Janzen Joseph P. , Adjemian Michael K.
Published: July 2017

The United States may be losing its leadership role in the world wheat market. Rising trading volume in foreign futures markets and shifting shares of world trade are suggested as evidence of this shift, but neither necessitates that futures markets in the United States are any less important for wheat price discovery. This paper applies high frequency pricing data and market microstructure methods, including the Yan and Zivot (2010) information leadership share, to estimate the proportion of price discovery occurring in wheat futures markets associated with Chicago, Kansas City, Minneapolis, and Paris. We find United States futures markets remain dominant, although the share of price discovery for the Paris market increased noticeably in 2010, coinciding with major supply shocks in Russia and Ukraine. Prior to August 2010, 91% of information about the common fundamental value of wheat was first revealed in United States futures markets in an average month. After August 2010, this share dropped to 75%.
Mice expressing human ERAP1 variants associated with ankylosing spondylitis have altered T-cell repertoires and NK cell functions, as well as increased in utero and perinatal mortality
Authors: Rastall David P W , Alyaquob Fadel S , O’Connell Patrick , Pepelyayeva Yuliya , Peters Douglas , Godbehere-Roosa Sarah , Pereira-Hicks Cristiane , Aldhamen Yasser A , Amalfitano Andrea
Published: July 2017

Specific variants of endoplasmic reticulum-associated aminopeptidase 1 (ERAP1) identified by genome-wide association study modify the risk for developing ankylosing spondylitis. We previously confirmed that disease-associated ERAP1 variants have altered enzymatic abilities that can impact upon the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines from cells expressing the same ERAP1 variants. To determine if these ERAP1 variants also impacted immune responses in vivo, we generated two strains of transgenic mice expressing human ERAP1 genes containing non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with an increased (ERAP1-High) or decreased (ERAP1-Low) risk for developing autoimmune disease. After vaccination with foreign antigens, ERAP1-High mice generated unique populations of antigen-specific T-cell clones. The expression of ERAP1-High also reduced MHC-I expression on the surface of multiple cell types, demonstrating a global impact on the MHC-I peptidome. ERAP1 variants also affected the innate immune system, because NK cells from murine ERAP1 (mERAP1) knockout mice and ERAP1-High/mERAP1−/− mice had decreased surface expression of the activating receptor NKG2D on their NK and T cells, and NK cells derived from mERAP1−/− mice or ERAP1-Low mice demonstrated more active NK cell killing than NK cells derived from wild-type or ERAP1-High mice. Finally, these studies were conducted in female mice, as all male ERAP1-High mice died in utero or shortly after birth, making ERAP1-High one of the only dominant lethal autosomal genes known in mammals. Together, these results present the first direct evidence that human disease-associated ERAP1 variants can greatly alter survival, as well as antigen presentation, T-cell repertoire and NK cell responses in vivo.
Fracture after radiation therapy for femoral metastasis: incidence, timing and clinical features
Authors: Shimoyama Tetsuo , Katagiri Hirohisa , Harada Hideyuki , Murata Hideki , Wasa Junji , Hosaka Seiichi , Suzuki Takayoshi , Takahashi Mitsuru , Asakura Hirofumi , Nishimura Tetsuo , Yamada Harumoto
Published: July 2017

We analyzed 428 femoral metastases initially treated with radiotherapy between 2002 and 2011 to clarify the clinical details of post-irradiation fractures of femoral metastasis. Patients included 161 men and 167 women, with a mean age of 62 years. Fracture incidence, fracture site, fracture risk based on X-ray images before radiotherapy, and interval from completion of radiotherapy to fracture occurrence were assessed. In addition, 24 pathological specimens obtained during 27 surgeries for these fractures were examined. Fractures occurred in 7.7% of 428 femoral metastases (total 33: 28 actual fractures and five virtual fractures with progressive pain and bone destruction). The fracture rate was 7.8% in the proximal femur and 1.5% in the shaft (P = 0.001). Fractures occurred a median of 4.4 months after radiotherapy, with 39.4% occurring within 3 months and 63.6% within 6 months. Among femurs with high fracture risk according to Harrington’s criteria or Mirels’ score, the fracture rate was 13.9% and 11.8%, respectively. Viable tumor cells were detected in all five patients with painful virtual fracture, in 85.7% of femurs with actual fractures that occurred within 3 months, and in only 25.0% of actual fractures occurring after 3 months. Post-irradiation fractures of femoral metastasis most frequently occurred within 3 months after radiotherapy, and were more common in the peritrochanteric area than in the shaft. Radiological evidence of impending fracture did not correlate with a high fracture rate. Actual fractures occurring after more than 3 months were likely caused by post-irradiation fragility of the femur, without viable tumor cells.
Suction Energy for Double-Stranded DNA Inside Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Alshehri Mansoor H , Hill James M
Published: July 2017

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) constitute hybrid materials with the potential to provide new components with many applications in various technology areas, such as molecular electronics, field devices and medical applications. Using classical applied mathematical modelling, we investigate the suction force experienced by a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) molecule which is assumed to be located on the axis near an open end of a semi-infinite single-walled CNT. We employ both the 6-12 Lennard-Jones potential and the continuum approximation, which assumes that a discrete atomic structure can be replaced by a surface with constant average atomic density. While most research in the area is dominated by molecular dynamics simulations, here we use elementary mechanical principles and classical applied mathematical modelling techniques to formulate explicit analytical criteria and ideal model behaviour. We observe that the suction behaviour depends on the radius of the CNT, and we predict that it is less likely for a dsDNA molecule to be accepted into the CNT when the value of the tube radius is ${<}12.9$ Å. The dsDNA molecule will be accepted into the CNT for radii lager than 13 Å, and we show that the optimal single-walled CNT necessary to fully enclose the DNA molecule has a radius of 13.56 Å, which approximately corresponds to the chiral vector numbers (20, 20). This means that the ideal single-walled CNT to be used to encapsulate a dsDNA is (20, 20) which has the required radius of 13.56 Å.
Turning 1 Year of Age in a Low Socioeconomic Environment: A Portrait of Disadvantage
Authors: Hurt Hallam , Betancourt Laura M.
Published: July 2017

In the United States today, 16 million children are growing up poor. Few studies report multiple environmental factors associated with poverty during the first year of life and effects on infant development.

Objectives:

To evaluate maternal, home, and neighborhood environment of low and higher socioeconomic status (SES) infants from birth to 1 year and to evaluate the impact of SES and environment on infant developmental outcome at 1 year.

Methods:

Low (n = 30) and higher SES (n = 30) African-American mothers and their healthy term gestation female infants were prospectively compared for environmental characteristics and infant developmental outcome. Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV (WAIS-IV); Beck Depression Inventory; Perceived Stress Scale; Parenting Stress Index-Fourth Edition (PSI-4); Social Support Scale; Home Observation Measurement of the Environment (HOME); Household Food Insecurity (HFI); Concentrated Neighborhood Disadvantage (CND). Bayley Scales of Infant Development Third Edition (BSID-III); Preschool Language Scale (PLS-5).

Results:

Environmental risk was greater for low compared with higher SES: lower WAIS-IV (p < .001); higher PSI-4 total (p = .003); lower HOME total and 3 subscales (p < .002); higher HFI (p = .012); and higher CND (p = .027). Low SES infant outcomes differed from higher SES: lower BSID-III Cognitive Composite (p = .005), PLS-5 Total Language (p ≤ .017), and Auditory Comprehension (p ≤ .008). In regressions, after controlling for SES, effects of environmental factors were not found.

Conclusion:

By age 1, low SES infants had been exposed to greater environmental disadvantage and already exhibited poorer developmental functioning than higher SES infants. These findings suggest that support for families and children from impoverished circumstances cannot begin too early.
ANTI-VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR THERAPY VERSUS PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULARIZATION SECONDARY TO CENTRAL SEROUS CHORIORETINOPATHY
Authors: Peiretti Enrico , Caminiti Giulia , Serra Rita , Querques Lea , Pertile Riccardo , Querques Giuseppe
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) compared with intravitreal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors alone or combined with PDT in the treatment of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR).

Methods:

Retrospective study of a consecutive series of 34 white patients (34 eyes) with angiographic evidence of choroidal neovascularization secondary to chronic central serous chorioretinopathy, divided into two groups followed for at least 12 months: 16 were treated with full fluence PDT (PDT group) and 18 with vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (intravitreal [IVT] group).

Results:

In the PDT group, mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/40 (0.30 ± 0.69 logMAR) at baseline and did not change after 12 months (20/40; 0.30 ± 0.49 logMAR [P = 0.49]). In the IVT group mean, best-corrected visual acuity was 20/40 (0.30 ± 0.69 logMAR) at baseline and also did not change at the 12-month follow-up (20/32; 0.20 ± 0.49 logMAR [P = 0.20]). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of best-corrected visual acuity. A statistical significance difference was found in central macular thickness between the two groups with a better reduction of the thickening in the PDT group (P = 0.05); moreover, indocyanine green angiography analysis revealed that 50% of the polypoidal lesions were closed after PDT and 25% of the polypoidal lesions disappeared after anti–vascular endothelial growth factor therapy at 12-month follow-up.

Conclusion:

PDT and IVT inhibitors alone or combined show similar clinical effects in chronic central serous chorioretinopathy eyes with choroidal neovascularization.
A Retrospective Cohort Study of Traumatic Brain Injury and Usage of Protective Headgear During Equestrian Activities
Authors: Lemoine Donna S. , Tate Bradley J. , Lacombe Jennifer A. , Hood Theresa C.
Published: July 2017

Some of the more popular sporting activities for those living in rural areas include equestrian activities such as rodeo events and horseback riding. The lack of helmet use poses a concern for those who participate in these activities due to the risk of sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and ultimately having a negative effect on their future. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a trauma center comparing the data on animal-riding patients and their use or lack of use of headgear and incidence of TBI. Of the patients identified, 16.2% sustained a head injury, ranking TBI fourth among all injuries sustained by the animal-riding population. Males were predominantly affected; however, females of pediatric age 5–17 years (54.5%) ranked high among the TBI population. Among all the patients identified with TBI, none of the patients were wearing a helmet and all sustained a head injury. The average injury severity score was 11, with hospital length of stay averaging less than 2 days and the overall mortality was 3.6%. Findings from the study should be considered for the purpose of implementing an age-specific educational program focused on head injury prevention and utilization of protective headgear. Current literature supports the use of protective headgear to reduce the risk of head injuries. Animal riders should be educated on the importance of using headgear as a preventive measure. Future studies are needed to indicate the effectiveness of injury prevention in regard to head injury severity and the use of protective headgear.
Improving Trauma Care in Africa
Authors: Tuggle Deborah , Rasnake Niki , Day Theresa
Published: July 2017

Bringing the first Advanced Trauma Care for Nurses (ATCN) provider and instructor courses to Zimbabwe was the initial step in an educational partnership spanning more than 8,000 miles. Zimbabwe is a South African country with limited health care services, severe financial restraints, and a shortage of health care professionals. All of these barriers made our goal of bringing an organized and systematic approach to trauma care even more important. The nurses of Zimbabwe were aware that their patients were not receiving “best practice” care, which made them passionate for education, with strict enforcement of standardized delivery of care. The ATCN course provided the foundation for building a comprehensive approach to trauma care and creating a systematic and rapid initial assessment process during primary treatment of injured patients. Collaboration with the American College of Surgeons for the ATLS component was critical to the success and sustainability. The ultimate goal was to reduce morbidity and mortality from traumatic injuries and ultimately provide a sustained continuing education program to nurses countrywide. In November 2015, the Zimbabwe Nursing Council certified St. Philip's as its official National Nurse Trauma Training Center, the first and only center of its kind in Africa. As of October 2016, a total of 64 nurses have completed the ATCN courses and 9 have been checked off as ATCN faculty. Our goal was realized through the cooperation of many individuals. The nurses of Africa received the training crucial to delivering an excellent standard of care and ultimately saving lives.
Sildenafil in Left Ventricular Assist Device Is Safe and Well-Tolerated
Authors: Ravichandran Ashwin K. , LaRue Shane J. , Novak Eric , Joseph Susan A. , Schilling Joel D.
Published: July 2017

Right heart failure is a potentially devastating complication of mechanical circulatory support, occurring at a rate of 0.49 events per 100 patient-months.
1
Pulmonary vasodilators such as phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i) have been frequently used to unload the right ventricle in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients, but there is scant evidence to support this practice.
2,3
The purpose of this analysis is to provide additional data regarding the safety and efficacy of the PDE5i sildenafil in a real world population of patients supported with LVADs at Washington University in St. Louis. Sildenafil use was not associated with differences in gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, stroke, mortality, heart failure (HF) admission, or orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT).
Pancreatic Duct in Autoimmune Pancreatitis
Authors: Kim Jin Hee , Byun Jae Ho , Kim Myung-Hwan , Lee Sung Koo , Kim Song Cheol , Kim Hyoung Jung , Lee Seung Soo , Kim So Yeon , Lee Moon-Gyu
Published: July 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to intraindividually compare magnetic resonance pancreatography (MRP) image quality at 1.5 T and 3.0 T when demonstrating main pancreatic duct (MPD) abnormalities in patients with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP).

Methods

Thirty prospectively enrolled patients with AIP underwent MRP at both 1.5 T and 3.0 T followed by endoscopic retrograde pancreatography before treatment. Two readers independently analyzed the MRP images and graded the visualization of MPD strictures and full-length MPD, using endoscopic retrograde pancreatography as the reference standard, as well as overall image artifacts on a 4-point scale. The contrast between the MPD and periductal area was calculated using a region-of-interest measurement.

Results

Visualization scores of MPD strictures and full-length MPD, and summed scores of each qualitative analysis, were significantly greater at 3.0-T MRP than at 1.5-T MRP for both readers (P ≤ 0.02). There were less image artifacts at 3.0 T compared with 1.5 T (P ≤ 0.052). The contrast between the MPD and periductal area was significantly greater at 3.0-T MRP than at 1.5-T MRP (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The MRP at 3.0 T was superior to 1.5-T MRP for demonstrating MPD abnormalities in AIP, with better image contrast and fewer image artifacts. Consequently, 3.0-T MRP may be useful for the diagnosis and management of patients with AIP.
Describing Peripancreatic Collections According to the Revised Atlanta Classification of Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Bouwense Stefan A. , van Brunschot Sandra , van Santvoort Hjalmar C. , Besselink Marc G. , Bollen Thomas L. , Bakker Olaf J. , Banks Peter A. , Boermeester Marja A. , Cappendijk Vincent C. , Carter Ross , Charnley Richard , van Eijck Casper H. , Freeny Patrick C. , Hermans John J. , Hough David M. , Johnson Colin D. , Laméris Johan S. , Lerch Markus M. , Mayerle Julia , Mortele Koenraad J. , Sarr Michael G. , Stedman Brian , Vege Santhi Swaroop , Werner Jens , Dijkgraaf Marcel G. , Gooszen Hein G. , Horvath Karen D.
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Severe acute pancreatitis is associated with peripancreatic morphologic changes as seen on imaging. Uniform communication regarding these morphologic findings is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. For the original 1992 Atlanta classification, interobserver agreement is poor. We hypothesized that for the revised Atlanta classification, interobserver agreement will be better.

Methods

An international, interobserver agreement study was performed among expert and nonexpert radiologists (n = 14), surgeons (n = 15), and gastroenterologists (n = 8). Representative computed tomographies of all stages of acute pancreatitis were selected from 55 patients and were assessed according to the revised Atlanta classification. The interobserver agreement was calculated among all reviewers and subgroups, that is, expert and nonexpert reviewers; interobserver agreement was defined as poor (≤0.20), fair (0.21–0.40), moderate (0.41–0.60), good (0.61–0.80), or very good (0.81–1.00).

Results

Interobserver agreement among all reviewers was good (0.75 [standard deviation, 0.21]) for describing the type of acute pancreatitis and good (0.62 [standard deviation, 0.19]) for the type of peripancreatic collection. Expert radiologists showed the best and nonexpert clinicians the lowest interobserver agreement.

Conclusions

Interobserver agreement was good for the revised Atlanta classification, supporting the importance for widespread adaption of this revised classification for clinical and research communications.
Overexpression of Yes Associated Protein 1, an Independent Prognostic Marker in Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma, Correlated With Liver Metastasis and Poor Prognosis
Authors: Salcedo Allende Maria Teresa , Zeron-Medina Jorge , Hernandez Javier , Macarulla Teresa , Balsells Joaquim , Merino Xavier , Allende Helena , Tabernero Josep , Ramon y Cajal Agüeras Santiago
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal cancer. Overexpression of Yes associated protein 1 (YAP1), a downstream target of Hippo pathway, implicated in regulation of cell growth and apoptosis, has been reported in several human tumor types. The objective of this study was to investigate YAP1 expression in patients with PDAC and its prognostic values.

Methods

We evaluated YAP1 expression in 64 PDAC and 15 chronic pancreatitis (CP) cases and its related pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) lesions and in 5 control subjects. Yes associated protein 1 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Association of YAP1 with clinicopathologic features in PDAC, disease-free survival, and overall survival was analyzed.

Results

We found a higher positive rate of nuclear expression of YAP1 in PDAC than in CP (P = 0.000) and lower expression of YAP1 in PanIN lesions in CP in contrast with expression in PanIN lesions in PDAC. Nuclear overexpression of YAP1 in PDAC is associated with hepatic metastasis (P = 0.0280) and is a prognostic factor (P = 0.0320), as well as surgical margin involvement (P = 0.0013) and tumoral stage (P = 0.0109).

Conclusions

Overexpression of YAP1 may occur as a part of tumorigenesis of PDAC. Yes associated protein 1 is an independent prognostic marker for overall survival of PDAC and associated with liver metastasis, being a potential therapeutic target.
Cavitary Choroidal Metastasis from Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ayres Bernadete , McClendon Tanya , Demirci Hakan
Published: July 2017

PURPOSE

To report the clinical, funduscopic, and echographic features of a choroidal metastatic tumor from a clear cell renal cell carcinoma presenting with intralesional cavitation.

CASE REPORT

An 81-year-old man with history of clear cell renal cell carcinoma presented with blurred vision. A clinical examination including standardized ultrasound was performed, which revealed a choroidal mass with cystic-like cavitation. The patient underwent brachytherapy with regression of the tumor.

CONCLUSIONS

We report the features of a cavitary choroidal metastasis from clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Occurrence of features usually associated with uveal melanoma in a patient with a metastatic choroidal tumor may lead to misdiagnosis.