bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Portfolio Theory forα-Symmetric and Pseudoisotropic Distributions:k-Fund Separation and the CAPM
Authors: Framstad Nils Chr.
Published: December 2015

The shifted pseudoisotropic multivariate distributions are shown to satisfy Ross’ stochastic dominance criterion for two-fund monetary separation in the case with risk-free investment opportunity and furthermore to admit the Capital Asset Pricing Model under an embedding inLαcondition if1<α≤2, with the betas given in an explicit form. For theα-symmetric subclass, the market without risk-free investment opportunity admits2d-fund separation ifα=1+1/(2d-1),d∈N, generalizing the classical elliptical cased=1, and we also give the precise number of funds needed, from which it follows that we cannot, except degenerate cases, have a CAPM without risk-free opportunity. For the symmetric stable subclass, the index of stability is only of secondary interest, and several common restrictions in terms of that index can be weakened by replacing it by the (no smaller) indices of symmetry/of embedding. Finally, dynamic models with intermediate consumption inherit the separation properties of the static models.
Element Analysis Based on Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence
Authors: Yao Min , Wang Dongyue , Zhao Min
Published: December 2015

Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry is a nondestructive, rapid, multielement, highly accurate, and environment friendly analysis compared with other elemental detection methods. Thus, EDXRF spectrometry is applicable for production quality control, ecological environment monitoring, geological surveying, food inspection, and heritage analysis, among others. A hardware platform for the EDXRF spectrometer is designed in this study based on the theoretical analysis of energy-dispersive X-ray. The platform includes a power supply subsystem, an optical subsystem, a control subsystem, and a personal computer. A fluorescence spectrum analytical method is then developed to obtain the category and content of elements in a sample. This method includes qualitative and quantitative analyses. Finally, a series of experiments is performed. Results show that the precision of the proposed measurement method is below 8%, whereas its repeatability is below 2%.
Risk Factors of Overweight and Obesity among High School Students in Bahir Dar City, North West Ethiopia: School Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Anteneh Zelalem Alamrew , Gedefaw Molla , Tekletsadek Kidist Nigatu , Tsegaye Meseret , Alemu Dagmawi
Published: December 2015

Background. Overweight and obesity are risk factors for diet-related noncommunicable diseases. These diseases are the fifth leading risks for global deaths. Virtually, all age groups are affected from consequences of overweight and obesity.Methods. Cross-sectional study was conducted among 431 school adolescents. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaire and physical measurements. The sex and age specific BMI was computed using WHO Anthroplus software and the data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis.Results. The magnitudes of overweight and obesity were 12.3% and 4.4%, respectively, and the combined prevalence of overweight and obesity together was 16.7%. Three-fourths of the respondents (74.7%) had healthy body mass index; however, 8.6% were underweight. Sex, frequency of eating food out of home, school type, family monthly income, family having vehicle, vigorous physical activity, and frequency of vigorous physical activity were statistically significant predictors of overweight and obesity.Conclusion.The problems of overweight and obesity are taking place while students are still under the risk of underweight. Several factors were correlated with overweight and obesity. Therefore, interventions targeting gender, frequency of eating food out of home, vigorous activities, and frequency of doing vigorous physical activity are recommended.
Luoyutong Treatment Promotes Functional Recovery and Neuronal Plasticity after Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Wang Ning-qun , Wang Li-ye , Zhao Hai-ping , Liu Ping , Wang Rong-liang , Song Jue-xian , Gao Li , Ji Xun-ming , Luo Yu-min
Published: December 2015

Luoyutong (LYT) capsule has been used to treat cerebrovascular diseases clinically in China and is now patented and approved by the State Food and Drug Administration. In this retrospective validation study we investigated the ability of LYT to protect against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats. Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by reperfusion. Capsule containing LYT (high dose and medium dose) as treatment group and Citicoline Sodium as positive control treatment group were administered daily to rats 30 min after reperfusion. Treatment was continued for either 3 days or 14 days. A saline solution was administered to control animals. Behavior tests were performed after 3 and 14 days of treatment. Our findings revealed that LYT treatment improved the neurological outcome, decreased cerebral infarction volume, and reduced apoptosis. Additionally, LYT improved neural plasticity, as the expression of synaptophysin, microtubule associated protein, and myelin basic protein was upregulated by LYT treatment, while neurofilament 200 expression was reduced. Moreover, levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor and basic fibroblast growth factor were increased. Our results suggest that LYT treatment may protect against ischemic injury and improve neural plasticity.
Huperzine A Alleviates Mechanical Allodynia but Not Spontaneous Pain via Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Mice
Authors: Zuo Zhen-Xing , Wang Yong-Jie , Liu Li , Wang Yiner , Mei Shu-Hao , Feng Zhi-Hui , Wang Maode , Li Xiang-Yao
Published: December 2015

Chronic pain is a major health issue and most patients suffer from spontaneous pain. Previous studies suggest that Huperzine A (Hup A), an alkaloid isolated from the Chinese herbHuperzia serrata, is a potent analgesic with few side effects. However, whether it alleviates spontaneous pain is unclear. We evaluated the effects of Hup A on spontaneous pain in mice using the conditioned place preference (CPP) behavioral assay and found that application of Hup A attenuated the mechanical allodynia induced by peripheral nerve injury or inflammation. This effect was blocked by atropine. However, clonidine but not Hup A induced preference for the drug-paired chamber in CPP. The same effects occurred when Hup A was infused into the anterior cingulate cortex. Furthermore, ambenonium chloride, a competitive inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase, also increased the paw-withdrawal threshold but failed to induce place preference in CPP. Therefore, our data suggest that acetylcholinesterase in both the peripheral and central nervous systems is involved in the regulation of mechanical allodynia but not the spontaneous pain.
Utility of Iron Staining in Identifying the Cause of Renal Allograft Dysfunction in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Wang Yingchun , Doshi Mona , Khan Salman , Li Wei , Zhang Ping L.
Published: December 2015

Sickle cell nephropathy (SCN) is associated with iron/heme deposition in proximal renal tubules and related acute tubular injury (ATI). Here we report the utility of iron staining in differentiating causes of renal allograft dysfunction in patients with a history of sickle cell disease. Case 1: the patient developed acute allograft dysfunction two years after renal transplant. Her renal biopsy showed ATI, supported by patchy loss of brush border and positive staining of kidney injury molecule-1 in proximal tubular epithelial cells, where diffuse increase in iron staining (2+) was present. This indicated that ATI likely resulted from iron/heme toxicity to proximal tubules. Electron microscope confirmed aggregated sickle RBCs in glomeruli, indicating a recurrent SCN. Case 2: four years after renal transplant, the patient developed acute allograft dysfunction and became positive for serum donor-specific antibody. His renal biopsy revealed thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and diffuse positive C4d stain in peritubular capillaries. Iron staining was negative in the renal tubules, implying that TMA was likely associated with acute antibody-mediated rejection (AAMR, type 2) rather than recurrent SCN. These case reports imply that iron staining is an inexpensive but effective method in distinguishing SCN-associated renal injury in allograft kidney from other etiologies.
Quercetin Alleviates High-Fat Diet-Induced Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Accumulation in the Liver: Implication for Autophagy Regulation
Authors: Liu Liang , Gao Chao , Yao Ping , Gong Zhiyong
Published: December 2015

A growing body of evidence has indicated that high-fat diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is usually accompanied by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) deposited in the liver. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of quercetin on high-fat diet-induced ox-LDL accumulation in the liver and to explore the potential underlying mechanisms. The results demonstrate that quercetin supplementation for 24 weeks significantly alleviated high-fat diet-induced liver damage and reduced hepatic cholesterol and ox-LDL level. Quercetin notably inhibited both mRNA and protein expression of CD36 (reduced by 53% and 71%, resp.) and MSR1 (reduced by 25% and 45%, resp.), which were upregulated by high-fat diet. The expression of LC3II was upregulated by 2.4 times whereas that of p62 and mTOR was downregulated by 57% and 63% by quercetin treatment. Therefore, the significantly improved autophagy lysosomal degradation capacity for ox-LDL may be implicated in the hepatoprotective effect of quercetin; scavenger receptors mediated ox-LDL uptake might also be involved.
Physiologic Course of Female Reproductive Function: A Molecular Look into the Prologue of Life
Authors: Rojas Joselyn , Chávez-Castillo Mervin , Olivar Luis Carlos , Calvo María , Mejías José , Rojas Milagros , Morillo Jessenia , Bermúdez Valmore
Published: December 2015

The genetic, endocrine, and metabolic mechanisms underlying female reproduction are numerous and sophisticated, displaying complex functional evolution throughout a woman’s lifetime. This vital course may be systematized in three subsequent stages: prenatal development of ovaries and germ cells up untilin uteroarrest of follicular growth and the ensuing interim suspension of gonadal function; onset of reproductive maturity through puberty, with reinitiation of both gonadal and adrenal activity; and adult functionality of the ovarian cycle which permits ovulation, a key event in female fertility, and dictates concurrent modifications in the endometrium and other ovarian hormone-sensitive tissues. Indeed, the ultimate goal of this physiologic progression is to achieve ovulation and offer an adequate environment for the installation of gestation, the consummation of female fertility. Strict regulation of these processes is important, as disruptions at any point in this evolution may equate a myriad of endocrine-metabolic disturbances for women and adverse consequences on offspring both during pregnancy and postpartum. This review offers a summary of pivotal aspects concerning the physiologic course of female reproductive function.
Association of the C47T Polymorphism in SOD2 with Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease in Carriers of the APOEε4 Allele
Authors: Gamarra David , Elcoroaristizabal Xabier , Fernández-Martínez Manuel , de Pancorbo Marian M.
Published: December 2015

Oxidative stress plays an important part in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), the prodromal phase of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recent evidence shows that polymorphisms in theSOD2gene affect the elimination of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in mitochondria. The aim of this study was to determine whether the functional rs4880 SNP in theSOD2gene is a risk factor associated with aMCI and sporadic AD. 216 subjects with aMCI, 355 with AD, and 245 controls have been studied. The SNP rs4880 of theSOD2gene was genotyped by RT-PCR and theAPOEgenotype was determined by PCR and RFLPs. Different multinomial logistic regression models were used to determine the risk levels for aMCI and AD. Although the T allele of the SOD2 rs4880 SNP gene (rs4880-T) is not an independent risk for aMCI or AD, this allele increases the risk to aMCI patients carrying at least one APOEε4 allele. Moreover, rs4880-T allele and APOEε4 allele combination has been found to produce an increased risk for AD compared to aMCI reference patients. These results suggest that APOEε4 and rs4880-T genotype may be a risk for aMCI and a predictor of progression from aMCI to AD.
Evaluation of Central Corneal Thickness Using Corneal Dynamic Scheimpflug Analyzer Corvis ST and Comparison with Pentacam Rotating Scheimpflug System and Ultrasound Pachymetry in Normal Eyes
Authors: Yu Ayong , Zhao Weiqi , Savini Giacomo , Huang Zixu , Bao Fangjun , Lu Weicong , Wang Qinmei , Huang Jinhai
Published: December 2015

Purpose.To assess the repeatability and reproducibility of central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements by corneal dynamic Scheimpflug analyzer Corvis ST in normal eyes and compare the agreement with Pentacam rotating Scheimpflug System and ultrasound pachymetry.Methods.84 right eyes underwent Corvis ST measurements performed by two operators. The test-retest repeatability (TRT), within-subject coefficient of variation (CoV), and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used to evaluate the intraoperator repeatability and interoperator reproducibility. CCT measurements also were obtained from Pentacam and ultrasound pachymetry by the first operator. The agreement between the three devices was evaluated with 95% limits of agreement (LoA) and Bland-Altman plots.Results.Corvis ST showed high repeatability as indicated by TRT ≤ 13.0 μm, CoV < 0.9%, and ICC > 0.97. The interoperator reproducibility was also excellent. The CoV was <0.9%, and ICC was >0.97. Corvis ST showed significantly lower values than Pentacam and ultrasound pachymetry (P<0.001). The 95% LoA between Corvis ST and Pentacam or ultrasound pachymetry were −15.8 to 9.5 μm and −27.9 to 12.3 μm, respectively.Conclusions.Corvis ST showed excellent repeatability and interoperator reproducibility of CCT measurements in normal eyes. Corvis ST is interchangeable with Pentacam but not with ultrasound pachymetry.
The Impact of Diagnosis on Job Retention: A Danish Registry-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Espersen Rasmus , Jensen Vibeke , Berg Johansen Martin , Fonager Kirsten
Published: December 2015

Background. In 1998, Denmark introduced the flex job scheme to ensure employment of people with a permanent reduced work capacity. This study investigated the association between select diagnoses and the risk of disability pension among persons eligible for the scheme.Methods. Using the national DREAM database we identified all persons eligible for the flex job scheme from 2001 to 2008. This information piece was linked to the hospital discharge registry. Selected participants were followed for 5 years.Results. From the 72,629 persons identified, our study included 329 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, 10,120 patients with spine disorders, 2179 patients with ischemic heart disease, and 1765 patients with functional disorders. A reduced risk of disability pension was found in the group with rheumatoid arthritis (hazard ratio = 0.69 (0.53–0.90)) compared to the group with spine disorders. No differences were found when comparing ischemic heart disease and functional disorders. Employment during the first 3 months of the flex job scheme increased the degree of employment for all groups.Conclusion. Differences in the risk of disability pension were identified only in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This study demonstrates the importance of obtaining employment immediately after allocation to the flex job scheme, regardless of diagnosis.
Methodological Challenges in Estimating Trends and Burden of Cardiovascular Disease in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Kariuki Jacob K. , Stuart-Shor Eileen M. , Leveille Suzanne G. , Hayman Laura L.
Published: December 2015

Background.Although 80% of the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is in developing countries, the 2010 global burden of disease (GBD) estimates have been cited to support a premise that sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is exempt from the CVD epidemic sweeping across developing countries. The widely publicized perspective influences research priorities and resource allocation at a time when secular trends indicate a rapid increase in prevalence of CVD in SSA by 2030.Purpose.To explore methodological challenges in estimating trends and burden of CVD in SSA via appraisal of the current CVD statistics and literature.Methods.This review was guided by the Critical review methodology described by Grant and Booth. The review traces the origins and evolution of GBD metrics and then explores the methodological limitations inherent in the current GBD statistics. Articles were included based on their conceptual contribution to the existing body of knowledge on the burden of CVD in SSA.Results/Conclusion.Cognizant of the methodological challenges discussed, we caution against extrapolation of the global burden of CVD statistics in a way that underrates the actual but uncertain impact of CVD in SSA. We conclude by making a case for optimal but cost-effective surveillance and prevention of CVD in SSA.
Indirect Manganese Removal byStenotrophomonassp. andLysinibacillussp. Isolated from Brazilian Mine Water
Authors: Barboza Natália Rocha , Amorim Soraya Sander , Santos Pricila Almeida , Reis Flávia Donária , Cordeiro Mônica Mendes , Guerra-Sá Renata , Leão Versiane Albis
Published: December 2015

Manganese is a contaminant in the wastewaters produced by Brazilian mining operations, and the removal of the metal is notoriously difficult because of the high stability of the Mn(II) ion in aqueous solutions. To explore a biological approach for removing excessive amounts of aqueous Mn(II), we investigated the potential of Mn(II) oxidation by both consortium and bacterial isolates from a Brazilian manganese mine. A bacterial consortium was able to remove 99.7% of the Mn(II). A phylogenetic analysis of isolates demonstrated that the predominant microorganisms were members ofStenotrophomonas,Bacillus, andLysinibacillusgenera. Mn(II) removal rates between 58.5% and 70.9% were observed forBacillussp. andStenotrophomonassp. while theLysinibacillusisolate 13P removes 82.7%. The catalytic oxidation of Mn(II) mediated by multicopper oxidase was not properly detected; however, in all of the experiments, a significant increase in the pH of the culture medium was detected. No aggregates inside the cells grown for a week were found by electronic microscopy. Nevertheless, an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy of the isolates revealed the presence of manganese inStenotrophomonassp. andLysinibacillussp. grown in K medium. These results suggest that members ofStenotrophomonasandLysinibacillusgenera were able to remove Mn(II) by a nonenzymatic pathway.
Optimal Trajectory Planning and Linear Velocity Feedback Control of a Flexible Piezoelectric Manipulator for Vibration Suppression
Authors: Lou Junqiang , Wei Yanding , Li Guoping , Yang Yiling , Xie Fengran
Published: December 2015

Trajectory planning is an effective feed-forward control technology for vibration suppression of flexible manipulators. However, the inherent drawback makes this strategy inefficient when dealing with modeling errors and disturbances. An optimal trajectory planning approach is proposed and applied to a flexible piezoelectric manipulator system in this paper, which is a combination of feed-forward trajectory planning method and feedback control of piezoelectric actuators. Specifically, the joint controller is responsible for the trajectory tracking and gross vibration suppression of the link during motion, while the active controller of actuators is expected to deal with the link vibrations after joint motion. In the procedure of trajectory planning, the joint angle of the link is expressed as a quintic polynomial function. And the sum of the link vibration energy is chosen as the objective function. Then, genetic algorithm is used to determine the optimal trajectory. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by simulation and experiments. Both the settling time and peak value of the link vibrations along the optimal trajectory reduce significantly, with the active control of the piezoelectric actuators.
Comparison of the Disposable Streamlined Liner of the Pharynx Airway and the Disposable I-gel in Anaesthetized, Paralyzed Adults: A Randomized Prospective Study
Authors: EL-Radaideh Khaled , Alhowary Ala"a , Bani Hani Diab
Published: December 2015

Introduction. This study compared streamlined liner of the pharynx airway (SLIPA) and I-gel noninflatable, single-use, supraglottic airway device (SAD) performance in anesthetized, paralyzed adults.Methods. Eighty adults (ASA physical statuses I–III) who were undergoing elective procedures under general anesthesia with an SAD were enrolled in this prospective, randomized, single-blind study. Subjects were randomly and evenly assigned to the SLIPA or I-gel group for intraoperative airway management. Ease and number of insertions, insertion time, oropharyngeal sealing pressure, hemodynamic response, oxygen saturation (SpO2), end-tidal CO2(EtCO2), and peri- and postoperative complications were examined.Results. The SLIPA and I-gel devices were successfully inserted in 100% and 95% of subjects, respectively. In two I-gel subjects (5%), ventilation was not possible after two attempts, but a size 55 SLIPA was successfully inserted in both cases. Forty-two and 38 patients were ultimately included in the SLIPA and I-gel groups, respectively. Insertion time was significantly shorter with the SLIPA (11.19±3.03 s) than with the I-gel (15.05±6.37 s,P=0.003). Oropharyngeal sealing pressure was significantly higher in SLIPA (28.76±3.11 cmH2O) than in I-gel (25.9±3.65 cmH2O) subjects (P=0.001). Blood staining occurred more frequently in SLIPA (n=8, 19.0%) than in I-gel (n=5, 13.2%) patients (P<0.01). Heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure, SpO2, and EtCO2were not significantly different between groups.Conclusion. Although blood staining incidence was higher, SLIPA insertion was easier and faster than I-gel insertion. The SLIPA provided better airway sealing pressure. Both devices had similar mechanical ventilation and oxygenation characteristics and comparable hemodynamic stability. Both noninflatable SADs are useful, but SLIPA rapid insertion and good airway sealing make it an effective alternative to the I-gel.
Superoxide Dismutase 1 Nanozyme for Treatment of Eye Inflammation
Authors: Kost Olga A. , Beznos Olga V. , Davydova Nina G. , Manickam Devika S. , Nikolskaya Irina I. , Guller Anna E. , Binevski Petr V. , Chesnokova Natalia B. , Shekhter Anatoly B. , Klyachko Natalia L. , Kabanov Alexander V.
Published: December 2015

Use of antioxidants to mitigate oxidative stress during ocular inflammatory diseases has shown therapeutic potential. This work examines a nanoscale therapeutic modality for the eye on the base of antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), termed “nanozyme.” The nanozyme is produced by electrostatic coupling of the SOD1 with a cationic block copolymer, poly(L‐lysine)‐poly(ethyleneglycol), followed by covalent cross‐linking of the complexes with 3,3′‐dithiobis(sulfosuccinimidylpropionate) sodium salt. The ability of SOD1 nanozyme as well as the native SOD1 to reduce inflammatory processes in the eye was examined in vivo in rabbits with immunogenic uveitis. Results suggested that topical instillations of both enzyme forms demonstrated anti‐inflammatory activity; however, the nanozyme was much more effective compared to the free enzyme in decreasing uveitis manifestations. In particular, we noted statistically significant differences in such inflammatory signs in the eye as the intensities of corneal and iris edema, hyperemia of conjunctiva, lens opacity, fibrin clots, and the protein content in aqueous humor. Clinical findings were confirmed by histological data. Thus, SOD1‐containing nanozyme is potentially useful therapeutic agent for the treatment of ocular inflammatory disorders.
Interrupt-Based Step-Counting to Extend Battery Life in an Activity Monitor
Authors: Kim Seung Young , Kwon Gu-In
Published: December 2015

Most activity monitors use an accelerometer and gyroscope sensors to characterize the wearer’s physical activity. The monitor measures the motion by polling an accelerometer or gyroscope sensor or both every 20–30 ms and frequent polling affects the battery life of a wearable device. One of the key features of a commercial daily-activity monitoring device is longer battery life so that the user can keep track of his or her activity for a week or so without recharging the battery of the monitoring device. Many low-power approaches for a step-counting system use either a polling-based algorithm or an interrupt-based algorithm. In this paper, we propose a novel approach that uses the tap interrupt of an accelerometer to count steps while consuming low power. We compared the accuracy of step counting and measured system-level power consumption to a periodic sensor-reading algorithm. Our tap interrupt approach shows a battery lifetime that is 175% longer than that of a 30 ms polling method without gyroscope. The battery lifetime can be extended up to 863% with a gyroscope by putting both the processor and the gyroscope into sleep state during the majority of operation time.
Sociodemographic and Clinical Predictors of Self-Management among People with Poorly Controlled Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes: The Role of Illness Perceptions and Self-Efficacy
Authors: Abubakari Abdul-Razak , Cousins Rosanna , Thomas Cecil , Sharma Dushyant , Naderali Ebrahim K.
Published: December 2015

Self-management is critical if people with diabetes are to minimise their risk of macrovascular and microvascular complications, yet adherence to self-management recommendations is suboptimal. Understanding the predictors of optimal diabetes self-management in specific populations is needed to inform effective interventions. This study investigated the role of demographic and clinical characteristics, illness perceptions, and self-efficacy in explaining adherence to self-management recommendations among people with poorly controlled diabetes in North West of England. Illness perceptions and self-efficacy data were collected using validated questionnaires and clinical data were obtained from hospital records. Correlations were used to investigate bivariate relationships between independent variables and self-management, and multiple regression techniques were used to determine demographic and psychosocial predictors of self-management. Various demographic and clinical characteristics were associated with adherence to self-management recommendations. In particular, employment status explained 11% of the variation in adherence to foot care whilst diabetes treatment category explained 9% of exercise and 21% of the variations in SMBG recommendations. Also, 22% and 8% of the variations in overall self-management were explained by illness perceptions and self-efficacy beliefs, respectively. Illness perceptions and self-efficacy beliefs of people with poorly controlled diabetes are important predictors of their self-management behaviours and could potentially guide effective interventions.
Training Status as a Marker of the Relationship between Nitric Oxide, Oxidative Stress, and Blood Pressure in Older Adult Women
Authors: Mourão Jacomini André , Celso Dutra de Souza Hugo , da Silva Dias Danielle , de Oliveira Brito Janaina , Cezar Pinheiro Lucas , Bernardino da Silva Anderson , Fernanda da Silva Roberta , Alexandre Trapé Atila , De Angelis Kátia , Tanus-Santos José Eduardo , Lia do Amaral Sandra , Saranz Zago Anderson
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of functional fitness and oxidative capacity on the nitric oxide concentration associated with hemodynamic control in older adult women. The sample consisted of 134 women (65.73 ± 6.14 years old). All subjects underwent a physical examination to assess body mass index, waist‐hip ratio, body fat measurement by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry, and blood pressure (BP). Training status (TS) was evaluated by indirect determination of maximal oxygen uptake by a treadmill test using Balke protocol modified for older adults. Functional fitness was also evaluated through a “Functional Fitness Battery Test” to determine the general fitness functional index (GFFI). All participants were separated according to the functional fitness (TS1, very weak and weak; TS2, regular; TS3, good and very good). Plasma blood samples were used to evaluate prooxidant and antioxidant activity and nitrite and nitrate concentrations. The general results of this study showed that good levels of TS were related to lower levels of lipoperoxidation and protein damage, higher levels of antioxidant, and higher concentration of nitrite and nitrate. This combination may be responsible for the lower levels of BP in subjects with better TS.
Serum Immunoregulatory Proteins as Predictors of Overall Survival of Metastatic Melanoma Patients Treated with Ipilimumab
Authors: Koguchi Yoshinobu , Hoen Helena M. , Bambina Shelly A. , Rynning Michael D. , Fuerstenberg Richard K. , Curti Brendan D. , Urba Walter J. , Milburn Christina , Bahjat Frances Rena , Korman Alan J. , Bahjat Keith S.
Published: December 2015

Treatment with ipilimumab improves overall survival (OS) in patients with metastatic melanoma. Because ipilimumab targets T lymphocytes and not the tumor itself, efficacy may be uniquely sensitive to immunomodulatory factors present at the time of treatment. We analyzed serum from patients with metastatic melanoma (247 of 273, 90.4%) randomly assigned to receive ipilimumab or gp100 peptide vaccine. We quantified candidate biomarkers at baseline and assessed the association of each using multivariate analyses. Results were confirmed in an independent cohort of similar patients (48 of 52, 92.3%) treated with ipilimumab. After controlling for baseline covariates, elevated chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 11 (CXCL11) and soluble MHC class I polypeptide–related chain A (sMICA) were associated with poor OS in ipilimumab-treated patients [log10 CXCL11: HR, 1.88; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.14–3.12; P = 0.014; and log10 sMICA quadratic effect P = 0.066; sMICA (≥ 247 vs. 247): HR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.02–3.01]. Multivariate analysis of an independent ipilimumab-treated cohort confirmed the association between log10 CXCL11 and OS (HR, 3.18; 95% CI, 1.13–8.95; P = 0.029), whereas sMICA was less strongly associated with OS [log10 sMICA quadratic effect P = 0.16; sMICA (≥247 vs. 247): HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 0.67–3.27]. High baseline CXCL11 and sMICA were associated with poor OS in patients with metastatic melanoma after ipilimumab treatment but not vaccine treatment. Thus, pretreatment CXCL11 and sMICA may represent predictors of survival benefit after ipilimumab treatment as well as therapeutic targets. Cancer Res; 75(23); 5084–92. ©2015 AACR.
Homocysteine Exposure Impairs Myocardial Resistance to Ischaemia Reperfusion and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Almashhadany Amer , Shackebaei Dareuosh , Van der Touw Thomas , Jones Graham L. , Suleiman M.-Saadeh , King Nicola
Published: December 2015

Background/Aims: Hyperhomocysteinaemia is recognised as a strong independent risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease. This study investigated how an acute homocysteine dose affected cardiac performance during ischaemia reperfusion and cardiomyocyte contractility and morphology under normal conditions and during oxidative stress. Methods: Cardiac function was measured in isolated and perfused rat hearts before and after 40 minutes' global normothermic ischaemia. Where used, 0.1 mM L-homocysteine was present prior to, and throughout ischaemia, before wash out after 10 minutes' reperfusion. Calcium transients under normal conditions and changes in contractile synchronicity during oxidative stress (exposure to 0.2 mM H2O2) were measured in freshly isolated rat cardiomyocytes incubated for 60 minutes ± 0.1 mM L-homocysteine. Results: During ischaemia reperfusion 0.1 mM L-homocysteine significantly reduced the rate pressure product during reperfusion (10,038 ± 749 vs. 5955 ± 567 mmHg bpm, p < 0.001), but did not affect time to ischaemic contracture. Incubation of freshly isolated cardiomyocytes with 0.1 mM L-homocysteine significantly decreased the amplitude of the calcium transient and slowed the time to half relaxation. Conclusions: These findings suggest that homocysteine exposure affected myocardial recovery from ischaemia and contractile homeostasis although the exact mechanisms for these changes remain to be determined.
Prophylactic Probiotics for Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Olsen Rie , Greisen Gorm , Schrøder Morten , Brok Jesper
Published: December 2015

Background: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a major morbidity and cause of mortality in preterm neonates. Probiotics seem to have a beneficial role in preventing NEC, which is confirmed in meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We therefore aimed to review and confirm the efficacy of probiotics in preterm neonates obtained in observational studies. Objective: To assess the effects of prophylactic probiotics in preterm infants. Methods: A meta-analysis was performed searching PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library) and www.clinicaltrials.gov. Reference lists of reviews of RCTs were also searched. Included studies were observational studies that enrolled preterm infants <37 weeks of gestational age. Trials were included if they administered any probiotics and measured at least one clinical outcome (e.g. NEC, all-cause mortality, sepsis or long-term development scores). Two authors extracted characteristics and outcomes from included studies. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used for quality assessment. A random-effects meta-analysis model was used, and heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 test. Results: We included 12 studies with 10,800 premature neonates (5,144 receiving prophylactic probiotics and 5,656 controls). The meta-analysis showed a significantly decreased incidence of NEC (risk ratio, RR = 0.55, 95% confidence interval, 95% CI, 0.39-0.78; p = 0.0006) and mortality (RR = 0.72, 95% CI, 0.61-0.85; p < 0.0001). Sepsis did not differ significantly between the two groups (RR = 0.86, 95% CI, 0.74-1.00; p = 0.05). Conclusions: Probiotic supplementation reduces the risk of NEC and mortality in preterm infants. The effect sizes are similar to findings in meta-analyses of RCTs. However, the optimal strain, dose and timing need further investigation.
Relationship of Hippocampal Volume to Amyloid Burden across Diagnostic Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Trzepacz Paula T. , Hochstetler Helen , Yu Peng , Castelluccio Peter , Witte Michael M. , Dell''Agnello Grazia , Degenhardt Elisabeth K. ,   for the Alzheimer''s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: December 2015

Aims: To assess how hippocampal volume (HV) from volumetric magnetic resonance imaging (vMRI) is related to the amyloid status at different stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its relevance to patient care. Methods: We evaluated the ability of HV to predict the florbetapir positron emission tomography (PET) amyloid positive/negative status by group in healthy controls (HC, n = 170) and early/late mild cognitive impairment (EMCI, n = 252; LMCI, n = 136), and AD dementia (n = 75) subjects from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative Grand Opportunity (ADNI-GO) and ADNI2. Logistic regression analyses, including elastic net classification modeling with 10-fold cross-validation, were used with age and education as covariates. Results: HV predicted amyloid status only in LMCI using either logistic regression [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.71, p < 0.001] or elastic net classification modeling [positive predictive value (PPV) = 72.7%]. In EMCI, age (AUC = 0.70, p < 0.0001) and age and/or education (PPV = 63.1%), but not HV, predicted amyloid status. Conclusion: Using clinical neuroimaging, HV predicted amyloid status only in LMCI, suggesting that HV is not a biomarker surrogate for amyloid PET in clinical applications across the full diagnostic spectrum.
Hepatitis E Virus Seroprevalence Rate in HIV-Infected Patients in Germany: A Comparison of Two Commercial Assays
Authors: Pischke Sven , Schwarze-Zander Carolynne , Bremer Birgit , Lehmann Patrick , Wiegand Steffen B. , Gisa Anett , Behrendt Patrick , Strassburg Christian P. , Manns Michael P. , Wedemeyer Heiner , Rockstroh Jürgen K.
Published: December 2015

Objectives: Cases of chronic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection have been described in HIV-infected patients. There are several commercial anti-HEV assays, but anti-HEV seroprevalence rates differ largely depending on the assay used. The aim of this study was to (1) compare two commercial anti-HEV assays in a German cohort of HIV-positive individuals, and (2) determine whether HEV takes chronic courses in controlled HIV infection. Methods: 246 HIV patients were tested for both HEV RNA and HEV antibodies. All patients received antiretroviral therapy, if this was indicated, according to European guidelines. All but 19 individuals had CD4+ counts above 200/µl. Anti-HEV IgG was determined by two independent commercial assays (Wantai and MP). Results: None of the patients tested HEV RNA positive. Anti-HEV IgG was detected more frequently by the Wantai assay (26%) than the MP assay (1.6%, p < 0.001). Patients born in Europe tested more frequently positive for anti-HEV (p = 0.047) than individuals from other regions. Increasing age but not CD4 count correlated with a higher likelihood of anti-HEV positivity (R = 0.313, p < 0.001). Conclusions: About one quarter of HIV-infected patients show evidence of previous HEV contact. The risk of developing chronic HEV infection is very low in individuals receiving appropriate antiretroviral therapy. The large variability in HEV seroprevalence rates determined by different assays requires consideration for the diagnostic workup of HIV patients.
Gleason Score 6 - Prostate Cancer or Benign Variant?
Authors: Knüchel Ruth
Published: December 2015

The leading motivation behind wanting to call a ‘malignant' prostate lesion ‘benign' is the evidence of indolent prostate cancer that is not associated with a fatal outcome and in part makes therapeutic measures such as surgery and radiotherapy appear like overtreatment for some or possibly the majority of such patients. The present article reviews the definitions of ‘precancerous lesion' and ‘cancer' from a histopathologic point of view as the basis and gold standard for diagnosis. It is clear that with the 2 modifications implemented since its first publication, the Gleason score as the grading system for prostate cancer has shifted towards a low malignant subgroup diagnosed as Gleason 6. The recommendation of the International Society of Urological Pathology to change the Gleason score to a 5-tiered system, starting with grade group 1, is presented here, and may help doctor-patient communication especially in the active surveillance setting.
Current Medical Treatment of Patients with Non-Colorectal Liver Metastases: Primary Tumor Breast Cancer
Authors: Liedtke Cornelia , Kolberg Hans-Christian
Published: December 2015

Background: (Metastatic) breast cancer is a heterogeneous entity in which every disease subtype requires an individualized systemic treatment approach. Methods: We reviewed the currently available data regarding systemic therapy of breast cancer and present a review of historical and current treatment approaches, with the publications cited covering a time span from 1896 to the last ASCO 2015. Results: Systemic therapy of metastatic breast cancer may include chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and targeted therapies (e.g. antibody-based approaches). Based on the patient's breast cancer subtype, these agents may be employed alone or in combination. Therefore, characterization of the phenotype of the disease is necessary and may include biopsy of the metastatic site. Novel therapeutic approaches include immunologic therapies as well as PARP, PI3K and CDK 4/6 inhibitors, which are currently under investigation in clinical trials. Conclusion: Systemic therapy of metastatic breast cancer requires complex and individualized treatment approaches that are best offered in an interdisciplinary setting.
Ectopic Spleen Tissue - an Underestimated Differential Diagnosis of a Hypervascularised Liver Tumour
Authors: Grambow Eberhard , Weinrich Malte , Zimpfer Annette , Kloker Katja , Klar Ernst
Published: December 2015

Background: Patients with liver cirrhosis have an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Implantation metastasis following diagnostic biopsy is a well-known complication. Therefore, primary resection of a hypervascularised tumour suspicious for HCC is often performed with curative intent. Case Report: An exophytically growing mass was diagnosed between liver segments III and IVb by means of ultrasound in a 53-year old male patient with decompensated liver cirrhosis. Computed tomography confirmed a 3.5 cm large hypervascularised tumour with given resectability. Intraoperatively, the tumour appeared like a HCC. Thus, an atypical resection was performed. Histopathology revealed ectopic spleen tissue without any signs of malignancy. As enquiries revealed, the patient had undergone splenectomy after a blunt abdominal trauma 9 years prior to admission. Conclusion: In the present patient, hepatic splenosis in a cirrhotic liver was misinterpreted as HCC. In patients with a history of traumatic rupture of the spleen or splenectomy, splenosis has to be considered as a potential differential diagnosis of a hypervascularised tumour. Specific diagnostics should be performed to rule out splenosis.
Os escritos de Alexis de Tocqueville e Gustave de Beaumont sobre a prisão: o problema da participação dos negócios privados
Authors: Salla Fernando Afonso
Published: December 2015

O artigo apresenta algumas reflexões de Alexis de Tocqueville e Gustave de Beaumont sobre as formas de encarceramento, a partir principalmente da viagem que realizaram aos EUA na década de 30 do século passado. Ressalto as observações que estes autores fizeram quanto ao envolvimento de empresas privadas na prisão. São discutidos também os problemas que esta presença provoca e ao mesmo tempo as questões relativas às atribuições e competências de setores da esfera pública e da esfera privada
A formação da Escola Sociológica de Chicago
Authors: Eufrásio Mário Antônio
Published: December 2015

As "escolas" ou tradições sociológicas, devido a sua complexidade, são difíceis de caracterizar, mas pode-se falar numa Escola Sociológica de Chicago, de que o artigo esboça as linhas gerais de desenvolvimento, constituindo um roteiro expositivo com indicação de leituras para o leitor interessado em aprofundar-se no tema. Caracterizam-se inicialmente o surgimento e as grandes fases da história da sociologia nos Estados Unidos. Indica-se o caráter inovador da Universidade de Chicago, criada em 1982, que se confirmou na criação de seu Departamento de Sociologia, o primeiro dos Estados Unidos a oferecer ensino de graduação e de pós-graduação associado a pesquisa em alto padrão e numa perspectiva de prestação de serviços à comunidade. Indiferenciado dos demais departamentos de sociologia do país durante suas primeiras duas décadas, após a I Guerra Mundial o Departamento de Sociologia de Chicago assumiu uma posição de destaque. Indica-se o papel de Small, Vincent, Thomas, Park, Burgess e outros nesse desenvolvimento, que levou, nas circustâncias da própria cidade, à afirmação e ao predomínio da Escola Sociológica de Chicago durante toda a terceira fase da sociologia americana, entre 1920 e 1935
Sociologia, literatura e a critica dialética
Authors: Noritomi Roberto Tadeu
Published: December 2015

As análises sociológicas de forma geral têm abordado a obra literária ou como documento ilustrativo dos fatos ou como reflexo da infra-estrutura econômica. Partindo da discussão dos limites de tais abordagens, o presente texto percorre algumas alternativas da contribuição dialética, especificamente a de Adorno, para o estudo da literatura
Os alunos de ciências sociais na encruzilhada da ciência com a magia
Authors: Yoshida Tania Midori
Published: December 2015

Esse artigo propõe uma reflexão sobre a orientação do curso de Ciências Sociais da USP, com base em uma pesquisa realizada em 1992, entre os alunos desse curso. O artigo apresenta um novo perfil dos alunos de Ciências Sociais, marcado, não pela militância política, mas pelo interesse por práticas mágico-religiosas
Movimentos sociais, de Joseph Huber
Authors: Nogueira Aico Sipriano , Duarte Joaquim Aguiar
Published: December 2015

Os novos movimentos sociais (NMS) - ambientalismo, feminismo, pacifismo, etc. - não são realmente novos, mas vêm se mantendo de forma recorrente nos últimos duzentos anos. Tais movimentos têm um papel importante no processo da contínua modernização, ainda que tenham a intenção de serem antimodernistas. Agem no sentido de impulsionar uma readaptação periódica do sistema industrial ao seu contexto natural e cultural
Infância e modernidade: doença do olhar
Authors: Fernandes Heloísa Rodrigues
Published: December 2015

O artigo problematiza a invenção da modernidade que preconiza como lugar da infância a escola e analisa os vários processos que levaram a essa construção. Entre os inúmeros campos de saber que realimentaram essa invenção, observa mais atentamente a sociologia, especificamente as ideias de Durkheim, que formula um dispositivo pedagógico autoritário ao converter as diferenças entre adultos e crianças em desigualdades. A autora percebe que atualmente desistiu-se da imagem idealizada da infância e associa esse processo com a redução do campo político ao assistencial e sua degradação marcada pelas regras do jogo do mercado. Nesse movimento, a modernidade abriu mão também do projeto de uma transformação radical das relações sociais. A partir da obra de Lacan, pode-se pensar que a doença da modernidade seja a morte do desejo e a doença do olhar do adulto levou-o a, ao mesmo tempo, idealizar e temer a criança-objeto
O que estava em jogo na greve dos petroleiros? Neoliberalismo e resistência operária no govemo Fernando Henrique Cardoso
Authors: Bianchi Alvaro G.
Published: December 2015

A greve de 30 dias, realizada pela categoria petroleira em maio de 1995, foi tratada com extremo rigor pelo governo de Fernando Henrique Cardoso. As refinarias foram ocupadas militarmente e o governo se recusou a negociar com os sindicatos. Para compreender esta atitutde e preciso interpretar a relação existente entre os ajustes estruturais de caráter neoliberal e o movimento sindical. Para viabilizar tais ajustes, é necessário derrotar ou domesticar os sindicatos. Apesar dos petroleiros encerrarem seu movimento sem conquistarem suas reivindicações, o governo não conseguiu cumprir seus objetivos
Memoria crítica e Crítica da memória
Authors: Dymetman Annie
Published: December 2015

O texto consiste na elaboração de algumas reflexões sobre o lugar da memória na contemporaneidade, seja como técnica de conhecimento, seja como forma de saber. Neste sentido, através de uma metodologia anacrônica, num movimento de vai-e-vem à multiplicidade de significações da memória no passado, a problematização do tempo vertiginoso da modernidade e do esgotamento do novo, possibilita a emergência das memórias inscritas no presente
Visões do transe religioso
Authors: Rizzi Nilse Davanço
Published: December 2015

O ponto de partida é o fenômeno do transe considerado num contexto ritual religioso, procurando, num primeiro momento, conceituar os diferentes tipos de transe, relacionando-os às religiões nas quais aparece. Num segundo momento, a preocupação é desvendar como o transe é visto pelas pessoas e quais opiniões elas tem a respeito. Neste sentido, buscamos resgatar a partir de quais religiões o transe está mais frequentemente associado, quais manifestações estão identificadas a ele e como as pessoas veem tais manifestações