bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic use of calcium channel blockers associated with less increase in central retinal thickness after uncomplicated cataract surgery
Authors: Danni Reeta , Taipale Claudia , Holmström Emil J. , Ilveskoski Lotta , Tuuminen Raimo
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To examine the role of systemic medication on the risk of pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (PCME) following uneventful cataract surgery.

Methods

A total of 269 eyes undergoing routine cataract surgery. Spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography imaging was conducted before surgery and at 28 days. Information about medication of the participants was gathered from The National Archive of Health Information (Kanta), an electronic pharmaceutical database.

Results

Systemic medication with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor antagonists (p < 0.001), beta‐blockers (β‐blockers) (p = 0.002), calcium channel blockers (CCBs) (p < 0.001), nitrates (p =0.021) and lipophilic HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) (p < 0.001) were more frequently prescribed to diabetic compared with nondiabetic patients. In eyes with steroid monotherapy (N = 135), concomitant systemic medication with β‐blockers (12.9 ± 24.0 μm versus 28.6 ± 59.5 μm, p = 0.045), CCBs (12.0 ± 22.1 μm versus 26.3 ± 55.6 μm, p = 0.041) and statins (12.9 ± 22.8 μm versus 30.0 ± 61.9 μm, p = 0.038) attenuated a change in central retinal thickness (CRT) when compared to patients not receiving medication. In multivariable analysis, the use of CCBs remained as an independent protective factor against macular swelling at 28 days (−0.23; 95% CI [−0.43 to −0.04]; p = 0.021), when all systemic medications showing statistical significance were included (i.e. β‐blockers, CCBs and statins) together with diabetes status. In eyes with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) monotherapy (N = 67) and steroid and NSAID combination therapy (N = 67), CRT increase was moderate both with and without use of systemic medications.

Conclusion

Systemic vasoactive medication may be protective against CRT change induced by cataract surgery in eyes at risk of PCME such as those with postoperative steroid monotherapy.
A mini‐review and implementation model for using ataluren to treat nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Landfeldt Erik , Sejersen Thomas , Tulinius Már
Published: September 2018

Aim

Ataluren has been approved for treating nonsense mutation Duchenne muscular dystrophy (nmDMD), and there are currently discussions concerning drug access and applications beyond the development programme. This study provides an overview of nmDMD and ataluren, stipulates clinical rules for treatment initiation and discontinuation and proposes a model for the implementation of orphan drugs in clinical practice in Sweden.

Methods

This was a targeted mini‐review of the literature from 1995 to 2018, which included cohort studies, guidelines, randomised clinical trials, clinical commentaries and reviews. The review covered the pathophysiology, epidemiology and burden of nmDMD and the clinical programme for ataluren.

Results

Based on the current evidence, and our experiences, we recommend that patients with nmDMD should be given ataluren as soon as possible after diagnosis and this treatment should continue until they reach a forced vital capacity of <30%, and, or, a score of at least six on the Brooke upper extremity scale. We propose an implementation model that comprises a coordinating specialist physician and a national expert committee responsible for providing clinical intelligence to ensure appropriate use.

Conclusion

Our clinical recommendations and proposed implementation model will inform the optimum medical management of nmDMD in Sweden and help ensure timely, equal access to ataluren and similar orphan drugs.
Bone and joint infections in infants under three months of age
Authors: Mediamolle Nicolas , Mallet Cindy , Aupiais Camille , Doit Catherine , Ntika Serge , Vialle Raphael , Grimprel Emmanuel , Pejin Zagorka , Bonacorsi Stephane , Lorrot Mathie
Published: September 2018

Aim

Studies on bone and joint infections (BJI) in infants under three months are rare. We described the clinical and paraclinical features and outcomes of infants hospitalised with BJI under three months of age.

Methods

The French National Hospital Discharge Database provided data on BJIs in infants under three months of age from January 2004 to 2015 in three Parisian Paediatric teaching hospitals.

Results

We included 71 infants under three months of age with BJI, the median age was 25 days, and the interquartile range (IQR) was 17–43 days. The most common infection sites were the hip (32%) and knee (32%). Symptoms included pain (94%), limited mobility (87%) and/or fever (52%). There were 11 (15.5%) cases of nosocomial BJI. A pathogen was identified in 51 infants (71.8%), includingStreptococcus agalactiae(45%),Staphylococcus aureus(22%) andEscherichia coli(18%). The initial median C‐reactive protein test rate was 31 mg/L (IQR 17–68). Of the 34 infants followed for more than one year, four developed severe orthopaedic conditions such as epiphysiodesis, limb length discrepancy, bone necrosis and/or impaired limb function.

Conclusion

Streptococcus agalactiaewas the most common cause of BJI in infants under three months. Orthopaedic sequelae were rare, but severe, and required long‐term follow‐up.
Indirect Effects of Daily Self‐Control Demands on Subjective Vitality via Ego Depletion: How Daily Psychological Detachment Pays Off
Authors: Gombert L. , Rivkin W. , Schmidt K.‐H.
Published: September 2018

The present study uses a within‐person approach to provide insights into day‐specific dynamics in the relation between self‐control demands at work and well‐being. Integrating arguments derived from the Limited Strength Model of Self‐Control and research on spillover processes, we develop and test a theoretical model of how the adverse effects of day‐specific self‐control demands at work may spill over to the home domain. Specifically, we propose ego depletion at home (an indicator of regulatory resource depletion) as a mediator linking self‐control demands on a given working day to reduced subjective vitality at home (an indicator of well‐being). Furthermore, we suggest that daily psychological detachment moderates this indirect relationship to the effect that high detachment prevents the spillover of the adverse effects of self‐control demands to the home domain. Results from our daily diary study across ten days (N = 86 employees) provide support for the proposed moderated mediation model, demonstrating that daily psychological detachment buffers the effect of self‐control demands on ego depletion, thereby disrupting the indirect effect of self‐control demands on subjective vitality at home. The study underlines the importance of within‐person approaches for examining the adverse effects of self‐control demands, and provides further evidence for the immediate resource‐replenishing benefits of daily detachment levels.
Financial Product Design, Retail Investor Sophistication and Issuer Incentives: A Case Study
Authors: Davis Kevin
Published: September 2018

Many financial products and securities marketed to retail investors involve design features that can make it difficult to understand the risk and return characteristics involved. This paper examines one such security, Convertible Preference Step Up Units (CPUs), issued in Australia by the US Masters Residential Property Fund (URF) at the end of 2017. It argues that an apparently relatively simple design masks significant complexity which would make risk assessment and fair pricing well beyond the capabilities of retail investors. Despite that, analysis of the security design and disclosure documents suggests that it would not fall foul of the financial product banning powers recommended for the Australian Securities and Investment Commission by the 2014 Australian Financial System Inquiry and in draft legislation as at mid 2018. This highlights the difficulties for effective financial consumer protection resulting from the mismatch between financial literacy levels and financial product design.
PD‐1+ TIM‐3+ T cells in malignant ascites predict prognosis of gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Nakano Michitaka , Ito Mamoru , Tanaka Risa , Yamaguchi Kyoko , Ariyama Hiroshi , Mitsugi Kenji , Yoshihiro Tomoyasu , Ohmura Hirofumi , Tsuruta Nobuhiro , Hanamura Fumiyasu , Sagara Kosuke , Okumura Yuta , Nio Kenta , Tsuchihashi Kenji , Arita Shuji , Kusaba Hitoshi , Akashi Koichi , Baba Eishi
Published: September 2018

The liquid biopsy of ascites fluid could be an excellent source of tumor and microenvironment for the study of prognostic biomarkers because of its accessibility. Tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) can predict prognosis in multiple malignancies, including the response to immune checkpoint inhibitors, a breakthrough cancer therapy. However, TILs’ profiles from malignant ascites have not been extensively studied. Using flow cytometric analysis, we quantified the proportion of exhausted T cells and memory/naive/effector T‐cell subsets, among the CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell populations of paired TILs and peripheral blood T cell samples (n = 22). The correlation between CD4+ and CD8+ subset profiles suggested that the combined analysis of CD4+ and CD8+ cells in malignant ascites was clinically significant. We found that cells positive for the exhaustion markers programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1), and T‐cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (TIM‐3), and cells coexpressing PD‐1 and TIM‐3 abundantly exist among malignant ascites TILs. Furthermore, patients with high frequency of PD‐1+ TIM‐3+ cells among the CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell population showed worse clinical outcome in multivariate analysis (n = 27). We propose that exhausted ascites TILs represent a clinically significant prognostic biomarker in advanced gastrointestinal cancer and represent an important target for immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Homology modeling in drug discovery: Overview, current applications, and future perspectives
Authors: Muhammed Muhammed Tilahun , Aki‐Yalcin Esin
Published: September 2018

Homology modeling is one of the computational structure prediction methods that are used to determine protein 3D structure from its amino acid sequence. It is considered to be the most accurate of the computational structure prediction methods. It consists of multiple steps that are straightforward and easy to apply. There are many tools and servers that are used for homology modeling. There is no single modeling program or server which is superior in every aspect to others. Since the functionality of the model depends on the quality of the generated protein 3D structure, maximizing the quality of homology modeling is crucial. Homology modeling has many applications in the drug discovery process. Since drugs interact with receptors that consist mainly of proteins, protein 3D structure determination, and thus homology modeling is important in drug discovery. Accordingly, there has been the clarification of protein interactions using 3D structures of proteins that are built with homology modeling. This contributes to the identification of novel drug candidates. Homology modeling plays an important role in making drug discovery faster, easier, cheaper, and more practical. As new modeling methods and combinations are introduced, the scope of its applications widens.
Gendered Packaging of a STEM Toy Influences Children's Play, Mechanical Learning, and Mothers’ Play Guidance
Authors: Coyle Emily F. , Liben Lynn S.
Published: September 2018

To study effects of the gender‐packaging of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) toys, mother–child dyads (31 daughters; 30 sons; M = 5.2 years) were randomly assigned to play with a mechanical toy packaged for girls (GoldieBlox) or boys (BobbyBlox). When familiarizing themselves with the toy to prepare for play, mothers given BobbyBlox built more with toy pieces than did mothers given GoldieBlox. During dyadic play, mothers with sons built more; mothers with daughters read the toy's narrative instructions more. Children's independent play likewise varied with game packaging. Girls learned the mechanical belt‐drive principle better from playing with BobbyBlox; boys learned the principle better from playing with GoldieBlox. Implications for gender‐schema theories, STEM interventions, and toy marketing are discussed.
A comprehensive analysis of the allergenicity and IgE epitopes of myosinogen allergens in Scylla paramamosain
Authors: Yang Yang , Hu Meng Jun , Jin Teng Chuan , Zhang Yong Xia , Liu Guang Yu , Li Yu Bao , zhang Ming Li , Cao Min Jie , Su Wen Jin , Liu Guang Ming
Published: September 2018

Background

Scylla paramamosain is one of the most common and serious food allergens in Asia. Therefore, research on its prevalence, accurate diagnosis, and IgE‐binding pattern of the allergens is crucial.

Objective

To identify the IgE epitopes of the myosinogen allergens in S. paramamosain using phage peptide library.

Methods

The prevalence of allergy to crabs (AC) and of sensitization was analysed using a questionnaire and a serological assay. BAT was performed by flow cytometry, and its diagnostic performance was evaluated in relation to allergens purified from crab myosinogen. IgE‐binding epitopes were identified by phage display using the IgE from patients with AC. Sequence‐ and structure‐based bioinformatics analyses were performed to identify allergenic epitopes.

Results

Crab was the most common cause of food allergies in this study. Subjects with AC (n = 30) with clear clinical symptoms were identified by immunoblotting and BAT. All of the myosinogen allergens triggered basophil activation; surface expression of CD63 and CD203c was higher in patients allergic to AK and FLN c than in patients allergic to SCP and TIM. In addition to six conformational epitopes of SCP, six linear epitopes and eight conformational epitopes of AK were identified. Five linear epitopes and three conformational epitopes of TIM, nine linear and ten conformational epitopes of FLN c were also identified, and the sequence VH(I/T) L was appeared in epitopes of both TIM and FLN c. The number of epitopes showed consistency with the value of BAT.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

BAT can be used for accurate diagnosis of AC. Identification of particular allergenic motifs could be a valuable tool for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of food allergies.
Low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, cannot rule out high‐grade lesion: Diagnosis, histological outcomes and human papillomavirus results
Authors: Segura Sheila E. , Ramos‐Rivera Gloria , Hakima Laleh , Suhrland Mark , Khader Samer
Published: September 2018

Background

The 2014 Bethesda System for Reporting Cervical Cytology classifies squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) of cervix into two main categories: low‐grade SIL (LSIL) and high‐grade SIL (HSIL). In some clinical practices, the LSIL cannot rule out high‐grade lesion (LROH) interpretive category is used in cases with LSIL and findings that may raise the possibility of HSIL. Our purpose is to assess follow‐up histopathology and high‐risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) results in patients with LROH, in comparison with LSIL, atypical squamous cells, cannot rule out HSIL (ASC‐H), and HSIL in our institution.

Design

Cervical Papanicolaou tests with LROH, LSIL, ASC‐H and HSIL interpretation, surgical follow‐up, and hrHPV status were retrieved from the computer database from May 2014 to December 2016.

Results

Of 109 963 total Papanicolaou tests, LROH comprised 0.3%, LSIL 3.1%, ASC‐H 0.2% and HSIL 0.4%. Only 3272 cases with surgical diagnoses were included in the study. The most common histological outcome for ASC‐H was cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN)2/3 (32.6%); LSIL was CIN 1 (45.7%); LROH was CIN 1 (46.7%) and HSIL was CIN 2/3 (64.4%). For LROH and LSIL, 31.1% and 7.5% respectively, had CIN 2/3. Approximately 79% of cases were hrHPV positive. Of LROH cases with surgical follow‐up, 86.9% tested hrHPV positive, accounting for the second most common positive group after HSIL (92.6%).

Conclusion

In our study cohort, LROH interpretation is associated with a higher number of CIN 2 or higher lesions on follow‐up compared to patients with LSIL (P < 0.0001), and is associated with a significant percentage of positive other hrHPV, supporting LROH as a useful diagnostic category that triggers appropriate follow‐up in affected women.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists for antipsychotic‐associated cardio‐metabolic risk factors: A systematic review and individual participant data meta‐analysis
Authors: Siskind Dan , Hahn Margaret , Correll Christoph U. , Fink‐Jensen Anders , Russell Anthony W. , Bak Nikolaj , Broberg Brian V. , Larsen Julie , Ishøy Pelle L. , Vilsbøll Tina , Knop Filip K. , Kisely Steve , Ebdrup Bjørn H.
Published: September 2018

Aims

To evaluate if glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) reduce antipsychotic‐associated body weight gain in patients with schizophrenia, when compared to controls.

Materials and methods

We systematically searched PubMed/EMBASE/PsycINFO/Cochrane using the search terms ‘(antipsychotic and GLP‐1RA)’. Individual participant data from studies randomizing patients to GLP‐1RA or control were meta‐analysed. The primary outcome was difference in body weight between GLP‐1RA and control; secondary outcomes included cardio‐metabolic variables and adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Multiple linear regression was conducted including sex, age, psychosis severity, metabolic variable, ADRs, and GLP‐1RA agent.

Results

Three studies (exenatide once‐weekly = 2; liraglutide once‐daily = 1) provided participant‐level data (n = 164, age = 40.0 ± 11.1 years, body weight = 105.8 ± 20.8 kg). After 16.2 ± 4.0 weeks of treatment, body weight loss was 3.71 kg (95% CI = 2.44‐4.99 kg) greater for GLP‐1RA versus control (p < 0.001), number‐needed‐to‐treat ≥5% body weight loss = 3.8 (95% CI = 2.6‐7.2). Waist circumference, body mass index, HbA1c, fasting glucose and visceral adiposity were each significantly lower with GLP‐1RA. Sex, age, psychosis severity, nausea, any ADR, and GLP‐1RA agent did not significantly impact outcomes. Body weight loss with GLP‐1RAs was greater for clozapine/olanzapine‐treated patients (n = 141) than other antipsychotics (n = 27) (4.70 kg, 95% CI = 3.13‐6.27 vs. 1.5 kg, 95% CI = −1.47‐4.47) (p < 0.001). Nausea was more common with GLP‐1RAs than control (53.6% vs. 27.5%, p = 0.002, number‐needed‐to‐harm = 3.8).

Conclusion

GLP‐1RAs are effective and tolerable for antipsychotic‐associated body weight gain, particularly clozapine/olanzapine‐treated patients. With few included patients, further studies are required before making routine use recommendations for GLP‐1RAs.
Species persistence under climate change: a geographical scale coexistence problem
Authors: Usinowicz Jacob , Levine Jonathan M.
Published: September 2018

Forecasting the impacts of climate change on biological diversity requires better ways to incorporate competitive interactions into predictions of species’ range dynamics and persistence. This problem has been studied extensively in a different context by theoreticians evaluating the coexistence of species in spatially heterogeneous environments. Here, we show how spatial coexistence theory can be adapted to provide a mathematical framework for understanding species persistence in competitive communities under climate change. We first show how the spatial low‐density growth rate provides the relevant metric of species persistence along a climate gradient. We then analyse a model of multiple migrating competitors to show how mechanisms contributing to low‐density growth rates quantify the effect of different competitive processes on persistence, and how these processes change in strength with species’ asynchronous migration under climate change. Finally, we outline the empirical utility of the framework, showing how the theory can scale up from local measurements of species performance and competitive interactions to range‐scale metrics of persistence. Treating species’ range dynamics as a geographical‐scale coexistence problem presents its own set of challenges, but building from a well‐established body of theory may greatly improve the predictability of species persistence in competitive communities under climate change.
Fatigue crack propagation behaviour of RC beams strengthened with prestressed CFRP under cyclic bending loads
Authors: Guo Xinyan , Huang Kainan , Huang Peiyan , Zheng Xiaohong , Zhao Chen
Published: September 2018

Numerical and experimental methods were applied to investigate the fatigue crack propagation behaviour of the reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened with prestressed carbon fibre laminate (CFL). On the one hand, a theoretical analysis method was presented to calculate the stress intensity factor K of the main crack on RC beam strengthened with prestressed CFL. On the other hand, fatigue crack propagation tests were carried out to obtain the crack propagation rate on RC beams strengthened with CFL, which had different prestressing levels (0%, 15%, and 22%). For accurate description of the fatigue crack propagation and fatigue life prediction, the digital image correlation method was used to capture the fatigue crack pattern. Based on the numerical and experimental method, a modified version of Paris' law was proposed. Compared with RC beams strengthened with nonprestressed CFL, the main crack propagation rates on RC beams strengthened with prestressed CFL having prestressing levels of 15% and 22% were decreased by 28% and 33%, respectively. The effectiveness of the proposed modified version of Paris' law was verified.
Weathering of Oil in a Surficial Aquifer
Authors: Baedecker Mary Jo , Eganhouse Robert P. , Qi Haiping , Cozzarelli Isabelle M. , Trost Jared J. , Bekins Barbara A.
Published: September 2018

The composition of crude oil in a surficial aquifer was determined in two locations at the Bemidji, MN, spill site. The abundances of 71 individual hydrocarbons varied within 16 locations sampled. Little depletion of these hydrocarbons (relative to the pipeline oil) occurred in the first 10 years after the spill, whereas losses of 25% to 85% of the total measured hydrocarbons occurred after 30 years. The C6‐30 n‐alkanes, toluene, and o‐xylene were the most depleted hydrocarbons. Some hydrocarbons, such as the n‐C10–24 cyclohexanes, tri‐ and tetra‐ methylbenzenes, acyclic isoprenoids, and naphthalenes were the least depleted. Benzene was detected at every sampling location 30 years after the spill. Degradation of the oil led to increases in the percent organic carbon and in the δ 13C of the oil. Another method of determining hydrocarbon loss was by normalizing the total measured hydrocarbon concentrations to that of the most conservative analytes. This method indicated that the total measured hydrocarbons were depleted by 47% to 77% and loss of the oil mass over 30 years was 18% to 31%. Differences in hydrocarbon depletion were related to the depth of the oil in the aquifer, local topography, amount of recharge reaching the oil, availability of electron acceptors, and the presence of less permeable soils above the oil. The results from this study indicate that once crude oil has been in the subsurface for a number of years there is no longer a “starting oil concentration” that can be used to understand processes that affect its fate and the transport of hydrocarbons in groundwater.
Effect of homogenisation on detection of milk protein content based on NIR diffuse reflectance spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Yanzeng , Guo Wenchuan , Zhu Xinhua , Liu Qiang
Published: September 2018

Investigating the effect of homogenisation on the prediction performance of protein content by using near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is helpful to improve protein determination precision. For this purpose, the influence of homogenisation on milk fat globules and NIR spectra was analysed firstly. Then, NIR spectra of eighty‐seven cow milk samples before and after homogenisation were obtained. Multiplicative scatter correction was used to do spectral pretreatment. Uninformative variable elimination based on partial least squares (UVE‐PLS) and successive projection algorithm was used to extract characteristic variables. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) and least squares support vector machine models were established. The results showed that homogenisation made milk fat globules be distributed evenly, decreased the size of fat globules and improved NIR spectral repeatability and prediction precision on protein content. The best model was PLSR‐UVE‐PLS, having good and excellent protein prediction ability for un‐homogenised milk (RMSEP = 0.06 g/100 g, RPD = 2.69) and homogenised milk (RMSEP = 0.04 g/100 g, RPD = 3.59), respectively.
HLA profile of the donors in the Macedonian Bone Marrow Donor Registry
Authors: Kirijas Meri , Genadieva Stavrik Sonja , Trajkov Dejan , Hristomanova Mitkovska Slavica , Senev Aleksandar , Efinska Mladenovska Olivija , Sibinovska Olgica , Petlichkovski Aleksandar
Published: September 2018

The importance of HLA alleles in the process of haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, especially the process of unrelated donor search, is enormous. Macedonian Bone Marrow Donor Registry was established in 2010 and has registered volunteer donors from different nationalities that live in the Republic of Macedonia. The aim of this study was to determine the HLA allele and haplotype frequencies of the volunteer donors from the Macedonian Bone Marrow Donor Registry and to compare this results with the Macedonians from a family study. We analyzed 1,541 donors, with different nationalities, Macedonian, Albanian and Macedonian Muslims that were most numerous in MBMDR, and typed them for HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C, ‐DRB1, whereas Macedonian also for HLA‐DQA1 and HLA‐DQB1 by SSO method (One Lambda, CA, USA). The most frequent alleles in Macedonians were HLA‐A*02, 01, 24; HLA‐B*35, 18, 51; HLA‐C*07, 04, 12; HLA‐DRB1*11, 16, 13; HLA‐DQA1*01, 05 and HLA‐DQB1*05, 03, 06; in Albanians they were HLA‐A*02, 24,01; HLA‐B*51, 18, 35; HLA‐C*07, 04, 12, HLA‐DRB1*11, 13,16; and in Macedonian Muslims they were HLA‐A*02, 01, 24; HLA‐B*18, 51, 35, HLA‐C*07, 04, 02 and HLA‐DRB1*11, 16, 14. The most common haplotype in Macedonian was HLA‐A*01‐B*08‐C*07‐DRB1*03, whilst in Albanian and Macedonian Muslims HLA‐A*02‐B*18‐C*07‐DRB1*11. The comparison of the HLA allele groups between Macedonian from MBMDR and family study showed similar distribution. This study confirmed the close relationship between the populations that live in the Balkan Peninsula.
A note on computational aspects of the Steiner traveling salesman problem
Authors: Álvarez‐Miranda Eduardo , Sinnl Markus
Published: September 2018

The Steiner traveling salesman problem (StTSP) is a variant of the classical traveling salesman problem (TSP). In the StTSP, we are given a graph with edge distances, and a set of terminal nodes, which are a subset of all nodes. The goal is to find a minimum distance closed walk to visit each terminal node at least once. Two recent articles proposed solution approaches to the problem, namely, on the exact side, Letchford et al. proposed compact integer linear programming models, and on the heuristic side, Interian and Ribeiro proposed greedy randomized adaptive search procedure, enhanced with a local search. Using the exact approach, instances with up to 250 nodes could be solved to optimality, with runtimes up to 1400 seconds, and the heuristic approach was used to tackle instances with up to 3353 nodes, with runtimes up to 8500 seconds. In this note, we show that by transforming the problem to the classical TSP, and using a state‐of‐the‐art TSP solver, all instances from the literature can be solved to optimality within 20 seconds, most of them within a second. We provide optimal solution values for 14 instances, where the optimal solution was not known.
Optical property evaluation of thoria doped with heavier rare‐earth oxides LnO1.5 (Ln = Er3+, Ho3+, Tm3+, and Yb3+)
Authors: Kumar Manish , Pokhriyal Meenakshi , Gupta Mohini , Vijaya Prakash Gaddam , Uma Sitharaman , Nagarajan Rajamani
Published: September 2018

To address the existing gap in the literature of upconversion studies involving thoria, samples of thoria doped with Ho3+‐Yb3+, Er3+‐Yb3+, and Tm3+‐Yb3+ were synthesized following epoxide gel method and were characterized. Fluorite structure of the doped samples was evident for the calcined samples from the corresponding xerogels as noticed in their powder X‐ray diffraction patterns. The presence of a sharp band near 460 cm−1 in the Raman spectra of all these samples supported the results from diffraction experiments. Intraconfigurational f‐f transitions of Ho3+, Er3+, and Tm3+ were present in the UV‐visible absorbance spectra of these samples. Both normal emission and upconversion emission from these samples have been studied. Emissions in all three basic colors were observed in the upconversion emission spectra. Two‐photon process was found to be responsible for the upconversion in these systems. Decay time measurements for these emissions were analyzed. This synthetic process was further extended to determine the extent of dissolution of heavier lanthanides and found that up to 50 mol% of Ho3+, Er3+ and 60 mol% of Tm3+, Yb3+ could be dissolved retaining fluorite structure. Creation of oxygen vacancies for these heavily doped specimens was quite encouraging and it could be useful as solid electrolytes in fuel cells.
Plasma ghrelin O‐acyltransferase (GOAT) enzyme levels: A novel non‐invasive diagnosis tool for patients with significant prostate cancer
Authors: Gómez‐Gómez Enrique , Jiménez‐Vacas Juan M. , Carrasco‐Valiente Julia , Herrero‐Aguayo Vicente , Blanca‐Pedregosa Ana M. , León‐González Antonio J. , Valero‐Rosa José , Fernández‐Rueda José L. , González‐Serrano Teresa , López‐Miranda José , Gahete Manuel D. , Castaño Justo P. , Requena‐Tapia María J. , Luque Raúl M.
Published: September 2018

Early detection of PCa faces severe limitations as PSA displays poor‐specificity/sensitivity. As we recently demonstrated that plasma ghrelin O‐acyltransferase (GOAT)‐enzyme is significantly elevated in PCa‐patients compared with healthy‐controls, using a limited patients‐cohort, we aimed to further explore the potential of GOAT to improve PCa diagnosis using an ample patients‐cohort (n = 312) and defining subgroups (i.e. significant PCa/metastatic patients, etc.) that could benefit from this biomarker. Plasma GOAT‐levels were evaluated by ELISA in patients with (n = 183) and without (n = 129) PCa. Gleason Score ≥ 7 was considered clinically significant PCa. GOAT‐levels were higher in PCa patients vs control patients, and in those with significant PCa vs non‐significant PCa. GOAT‐levels association with the diagnoses of significant PCa was independent from traditional clinical variables (i.e. PSA/age/DRE). Remarkably, GOAT outperformed PSA in patients with PSA‐levels ranging 3‐20 ng/mL for the significant PCa diagnosis [GOAT‐AUC = 0.612 (0.531‐0.693) vs PSA‐AUC = 0.494 (0.407‐0.580)]. A panel of key variables including GOAT/age/DRE/testosterone also outperformed the same panel but with PSA [AUC = 0.720 (0.710‐0.730) vs AUC = 0.705 (0.695‐0.716), respectively]. Notably, GOAT‐levels could also represent a novel predictive biomarker of aggressiveness, as its levels are positively associated with Gleason Score and the presence of metastasis at the time of diagnoses. Altogether, our data reveal that GOAT‐levels can be used as a non‐invasive biomarker for significant PCa diagnosis in patients at risk of PCa (with PSA: 3‐20 ng/mL).
Hiding in Plain Sight: Nebivolol Exhibits Compelling Tocolytic Properties
Authors: Barnett Scott D. , Buxton Iain L. O.
Published: September 2018

Preterm birth before 37 weeks of completed gestation results in numerous health consequences for the foetus. Preterm labour leads to preterm birth in over 50% of cases, and no FDA‐approved treatment can prevent labour or help a foetus remain in the womb until term. Examination of nitric oxide mediated relaxation signaling in the uterine smooth muscle reveals a role for protein S‐nitrosation. The recent discovery of upregulated S‐nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) in spontaneously preterm labouring women has emphasized the need to explore the function of S‐nitrosation regulation in the maintenance of uterine quiescence. Here we have examined the ability of nebivolol to relax uterine smooth muscle and tested recent claims that nebivolol is a GSNOR inhibitor. In uterine smooth muscle strips from both mouse and human, nebivolol relaxes oxytocin‐induced contractions in a dose dependent manner. Our data indicates that nebivolol has no effect on GSNOR activity, nor does nebivolol inhibit thioredoxin reductase, two of the major protein denitrosylases. The ability of nebivolol to relax uterine smooth muscle is likely the combined effects of increased nitric oxide synthase activity and β3‐adregnegic stimulation.
Multiple endocrine neoplasia–like syndrome in 24 baboons (Papio spp.)
Authors: Confer Alexandra , Owston Michael A. , Kumar Shyamesh , Dick Edward J.
Published: September 2018

Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) has not been reported in baboons, but this condition is well described in humans. An internal database was searched for all cases of concurrent endocrine hyperplasia and neoplasia in baboons. Twenty‐four baboons (Papio spp.) with concurrent endocrine hyperplasia and neoplasia were identified. Twenty‐one baboons had lesions in two endocrine organs, two baboons had lesions in three organs, and one baboon had lesions in four organs. Ten baboons aligned with the MEN1 classification; 14 baboons did not match any current human MEN classification. We report 24 cases of MEN‐like syndrome in baboons. MEN1‐like lesions accounted for nearly half (41%) of the affected animals. Genetic analysis of baboons with MEN‐like syndrome could further elucidate the mechanisms of MEN and support the use of baboons as animal models for human MEN.
Comparative study of IDDSI flow test and line‐spread test of thickened water prepared with different dysphagia thickeners
Authors: Kim Yong‐Hwan , Jeong Geon Young , Yoo Byoungseung
Published: September 2018

The flow behaviors of thickened water samples prepared with six commercial instant thickeners (A–F) were investigated at different thickness levels using the inexpensive, simple, and visual clinical tools, such as a line‐spread test (LST) and a syringe flow test developed by the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI). Both the flow distance value measured by the LST and the volume remaining in syringe by IDDSI flow test were compared with the apparent viscosity (ηa,50) values measured with a sophisticated computer‐controlled rheometer. The ηa,50 values of thickened water samples increased as thickener concentration increased, whereas the flow distance (cm; LST) or remaining volume (ml; IDDSI flow test) were decreased. Plots comparing ηa,50 values to LST flow distances and IDDSI volumes revealed exponential relationships (R2 = 0.926 for the LST and R2 = 0.898 for IDDSI test) between the two measurements. Such lower determination coefficient (R2) values (0.898) by IDDSI flow test seems to be due to the stickiness characteristics of starch component in starch‐based thickeners (E and F), indicating that the syringe flow test is not suitable for starch‐based thickeners. However, the thickened water samples prepared only with xanthan gum (XG)‐based thickeners (A–D) showed strong relationships (R2 = 0.972 for the LST and R2 = 0.939 for IDDSI test). These results suggest that the LST is a more reliable method than the IDDSI test for evaluating the correct and desirable viscosity for the dysphagia diet, and that the IDDSI test provides a means to predict the rheometer‐measured viscosity of water thickened with only XG‐based thickeners.

Practical applications

The effective management of dysphagia requires the thickened fluids prepared with the correct and desirable viscosity. In terms of clinical practice, it is very important to observe the comparison of LST with IDDSI flow test to determine a suitable method for estimating the correct viscosity of thickened fluids. Our results showed good relationships between the rheometer‐measured viscosity and flow values measured by the LST and IDDSI test methods for the thickened water samples prepared with different foods thickeners. The IDDSI flow test may be useful as a clinical training tool for preparing thickened fluids with only XG‐based thickeners to a target level of viscosity. These results presented in this study will provide clinicians, caregivers, and patients with valuable information for IDDSI flow test as an inexpensive and simple method for measuring the correct viscosity.
Atypical type of familial Mediterranean fever: An underdiagnosed cause of chronic aseptic meningitis
Authors: Sugie Masayuki , Ouchi Takahiro , Kishida Dai , Yasaki Shunji
Published: September 2018

We report an atypical case of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) concomitant with chronic aseptic meningitis. The patient experienced fever, abdominal and back pain because of serositis, and headache because of aseptic meningitis for 4 weeks. Blood examinations revealed increased white blood cells and serum amyloid A level. Medications, including steroids, did not improve his symptoms. However, the patient experienced immediate relief after the administration of colchicine. We diagnosed him as having atypical FMF based on the symptoms, especially positive response to colchicine, and heterozygous mutations on exon2 and 5 (E148Q/S503C) in MEFV gene. Unlike typical FMF, a cause of recurrent aseptic meningitis, atypical FMF might be an underdiagnosed cause of chronic aseptic meningitis.
Xanthomatous meningioma: A metaplastic or degenerative phenomenon?
Authors: Wong Yin Ping , Tan Geok Chin , Kumar Ramesh
Published: September 2018

Xanthomatous changes can be observed in various conditions including primary xanthomatosis that is linked to an underlying hypercholesterolemia and more commonly associated with secondary xanthomatous degenerative processes in neoplasm and chronic inflammation. Meningioma with extensive xanthomatous change is exceedingly rare. The presence of cholesterol clefts within this peculiar meningioma subtype has not been described. Herein, we report an unusual case of xanthomatous meningioma in an 83‐year‐old normolipidemic woman, who presented to us with worsening lower limb weakness and global aphasia. There was increasing evidence to suggest that the presence of xanthomatous changes in long‐standing meningioma is merely a sequela of cellular degeneration rather than true metaplastic change as previously hypothesized. Hence, the diagnosis of “xanthomatous meningioma” in the metaplastic category should be revisited and considered as a distinct histological subtype. The possible histogenesis of such intriguing phenomenon is discussed with a review of the literature.
The effect of nonsurgical periodontal treatment on gingival crevicular fluid stress hormone levels: A prospective study
Authors: Cakmak Omer , Alkan Banu Arzu , Saatci Ebru , Tasdemir Zekeriya
Published: September 2018

Objectives

The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate the effect of nonsurgical periodontal treatment (PT) on anxiety/depression scale scores and on gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) cortisol (COR) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels.

Methods

Fifty‐five participants with generalized chronic periodontitis (GCP group, n: 21), with localized chronic periodontitis (LCP group, n: 19) and with gingivitis or healthy (control group, n: 15) subjects were treated and followed up for 6 months. Clinical periodontal parameters include plaque index, gingival index, bleeding on probing, probing depth and attachment level; psychosocial measurements include Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI 1‐2) psychometric instruments; hormone levels in GCF including COR and DHEA were evaluated.

Results

All clinical parameters were significantly decreased (except attachment loss) after PT (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the two groups for STAI‐1‐2 and BDI scores, either at baseline or at 6 months (p > 0.05). COR levels were statistically lower following PT in GCP and LCP groups when compared to the baseline levels (p < 0.05). DHEA values at baseline and 6 months did not show significant differences.

Conclusion

Within the limits of the study, decreased GCF COR and unchanged GCF DHEA levels were determined in nonsurgically treated patients regardless of the extent and severity of periodontitis.
Mismatch between risk factors and preventive interventions? A register study of fall prevention among older people in one Swedish county
Authors: Witt Sofia , Englander Emma , Kumlien Christine , Axelsson Malin
Published: September 2018

Background

Falls are a common and often a devastating health hazard for older people, causing suffering, morbidity and mortality. Falls are costly for society in terms of both resources and direct medical costs. Although knowledge about falls and fall prevention is well known, falls among older people are still a major problem.

Aim and objectives

The aim was to estimate the prevalence of the risk of falls among older people receiving municipal health care. A further aim was to investigate the consistency between fall risk factors and preventive nursing interventions.

Design

A cross‐sectional register study.

Methods

Data containing risk assessments based on the Downton Fall Risk Index (DFRI) and planned interventions by the municipal health care were collected from the Swedish national quality registry, Senior Alert. Data were analysed using descriptive and analytic statistics.

Results

In the sample of 5,427 older people, the prevalence of the risk of falling was 79%. There was a difference in prevalence between the different types of municipal health care, sex and age. The most common preventive intervention was environment adjustments, and the least planned intervention was information/education about falls. Physical activity as an intervention was planned among 13.2% of the participants. Approximately 27% of the older people did not have any planned interventions despite being at risk of falling. Planned interventions did not always correspond with the risk factors; for instance, only 35.4% of those at risk of falling due to medication obtained pharmaceutical reviews as a preventive measure to decrease the risk.

Conclusion

The risk of falling is common among older people, and the preventive interventions do not sufficiently follow current evidence. This implies that systematic implementation of fall‐prevention guidelines is needed in municipal care.

Implication for practice

A better match between identified risk factors and preventive interventions is warranted.
Temporal trends in prenatal risk factors for the development of infantile hemangiomas
Authors: Schoch Jennifer J. , Hunjan Manrup K. , Anderson Katelyn R. , Lohse Christine M. , Hand Jennifer L. , Davis Dawn M.R. , Tollefson Megha M.
Published: September 2018

Background/Objectives

Specific maternal risk factors have recently been identified in the development of infantile hemangiomas (IH), including gestational diabetes (GDM), maternal antihypertensive medication use or gestational hypertension (GHTN), maternal progesterone use, and artificial reproductive technologies (ART). We sought to explore the change in incidence of these risk factors over time and determine their association with the increased incidence of hemangiomas over 35 years, as previously reported.

Methods

The charts of 869 mother and infant pairs (infants previously diagnosed with IH between January 1, 1976, and December 31, 2010) were reviewed for prenatal complications. Rates of the prenatal complications over the 35‐year period in birth mothers of infants diagnosed with IH were determined and evaluated by year of diagnosis (1976‐1990, 1991‐2000, and 2001‐2010).

Results

Over the 35‐year period in which the incidence of IH was previously examined, maternal age at delivery, prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), use of ART, maternal progesterone use, placental abnormalities, and GDM also increased.

Conclusions

GDM, ART, and maternal progesterone use increased over the past 35 years, mirroring the previously reported trend of increasing incidence of IH. Maternal age and BMI also increased in mothers of infants with IH. Further exploration of this association may direct future research in the pathogenesis of infantile hemangiomas.
ALTERNATIVE LOGICS AND APPLIED MATHEMATICS
Authors: Williamson Timothy
Published: September 2018

Many advocates of non‐classical logic for reasons external to mathematics claim that their proposed revisions are consistent with the use of classical logic within pure mathematics. Doubts are raised about such claims, concerning the applicability of pure mathematics to natural and social science.
Acquired cystic disease‐associated renal cell carcinoma is the most common subtype in long‐term dialyzed patients: Central pathology results according to the 2016 WHO classification in a multi‐institutional study
Authors: Kondo Tsunenori , Sasa Naoto , Yamada Hiroshi , Takagi Toshio , Iizuka Junpei , Kobayashi Hirohito , Yoshida Kazuhiko , Fukuda Hironori , Ishihara Hiroki , Tanabe Kazunari , Tsuzuki Toyonori
Published: September 2018

New pathological subtypes of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) were designated in the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) classification corresponding to the features commonly seen in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). To determine the clinicopathological findings of new subtypes, we reanalyzed all sections from 315 kidneys in 291 ESRD patients bearing RCC tumors surgically resected in three Japanese institutes by the central pathologist. Clear cell RCC was diagnosed in 144 kidneys (45.7%), acquired cystic disease (ACD)‐associated RCC in 100 (31.7%), papillary RCC in 41 (13.0%), and other minor subtypes in 30 (9.52%). Multivariate analysis showed that longer duration of dialysis, young age, and male sex were independent prognostic clinical factors for the occurrence of ACD‐associated RCC. ACD‐associated RCC included more WHO/International Society of Urologic Pathology (ISUP) grade 3/4 cases compared to other RCCs. In contrast, other unfavorable findings were less frequent in ACD‐associated RCC, including the presence of a sarcomatoid component, lymphovascular invasion, and necrosis. In conclusion, ACD‐associated RCC is a common histology in Japanese patients with ESRD. In addition, ACD‐associated RCC showed more cases with a higher WHO/ISUP grade, but fewer cases with other unfavorable pathological features, suggesting a favorable prognosis of ACD‐associated RCC.