bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved cognitive outcomes in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis treated with daclizumab beta: Results from the DECIDE study
Authors: Benedict Ralph HB , Cohan Stanley , Lynch Sharon G , Riester Katherine , Wang Ping , Castro-Borrero Wanda , Elkins Jacob , Sabatella Guido
Published: May 2017

Background:

Cognitive impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), with cognitive processing speed being the most frequently affected domain.

Objective:

Examine the effects of daclizumab beta versus intramuscular (IM) interferon (IFN) beta-1a on cognitive processing speed as assessed by Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT).

Methods:

In DECIDE, patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) (age: 18–55 years; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score 0–5.0) were randomized to daclizumab beta ( n = 919) or IM IFN beta-1a ( n = 922) for 96–144 weeks. SDMT was administered at baseline and at 24-week intervals.

Results:

At week 96, significantly greater mean improvement from baseline in SDMT was observed with daclizumab beta versus IM IFN beta-1a ( p = 0.0274). Significantly more patients treated with daclizumab beta showed clinically meaningful improvement in SDMT (increase from baseline of ⩾3 points ( p = 0.0153) or ⩾4 points ( p = 0.0366)), and significantly fewer patients showed clinically meaningful worsening (decrease from baseline of ⩾3 points ( p = 0.0103)). Odds representing risk of worsening versus stability or improvement on SDMT were significantly smaller for daclizumab beta ( p = 0.0088 (3-point threshold); p = 0.0267 (4-point threshold)). In patients completing 144 weeks of treatment, the effects of daclizumab beta were generally sustained.

Conclusion:

These results provide evidence for a benefit of daclizumab beta versus IM IFN beta-1a on cognitive processing speed in RRMS.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01064401 (Efficacy and Safety of BIIB019 (Daclizumab High Yield Process) Versus Interferon β 1a in Participants With Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (DECIDE)): https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01064401 .
The majority of natalizumab-treated MS patients have high natalizumab concentrations at time of re-dosing
Authors: van Kempen Zoé LE , Leurs Cyra E , Witte Birgit I , de Vries Annick , Wattjes Mike P , Rispens Theo , Killestein Joep
Published: May 2017

Background:

Natalizumab is efficacious in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. All patients receive the same treatment regimen of 300 mg every 4 weeks, despite differences in pharmacokinetics between individual patients.

Objective:

To give neurologists insight into natalizumab concentrations at time of re-dosing, we investigated longitudinal natalizumab concentrations in 80 patients in relation to disease activity, with possible influencing factors.

Methods:

In a prospective observational cohort study, natalizumab trough serum concentrations were measured in 80 patients. Data on demographics, duration of treatment, Expanded Disability Status Scale, clinical exacerbations, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and body weight were collected.

Results:

We measured high (≥10 µg/mL) natalizumab trough concentrations in 94% of patients. Intra-individual concentrations were stable. The spread in concentrations was substantial and did not correlate with disease activity. We found a negative association between natalizumab concentration and body weight (β = −0.30, p = 0.010).

Interpretation:

The majority of patients showed high natalizumab serum concentrations at time of re-dosing. Alternative treatment regimens could lead to more efficient use of natalizumab, but caution is warranted regarding the possibility of recurrence of disease activity. Prospective clinical trials are needed to establish the safety of extended dose intervals in natalizumab treatment.
ADHD treatment and diagnosis in relation to children’s birth month: Nationwide cohort study from Norway
Authors: Karlstad Øystein , Furu Kari , Stoltenberg Camilla , Håberg Siri E. , Bakken Inger Johanne
Published: May 2017

Background: Studies from several countries have reported that children youngest in grade are at higher risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis and treatment. Norwegian children start school the year they turn six, making children born in December youngest in their grade. We used data on medication, specialist healthcare diagnoses, and primary healthcare diagnoses from national registers to investigate associations between birth month and ADHD. Methods: All children born in Norway between 1998 and 2006 ( N=509,827) were followed from age six until 31 December 2014. We estimated hazard ratios for ADHD medication and diagnoses by birth month in Cox proportional-hazards models. We compared risk among siblings to control for potentially confounding socioeconomic factors, and assessed risk of receiving ADHD medication by birth month while attending different grades in cross-sectional time-series analyses. Results: At end of follow-up, 5.3% of boys born in October–December had received ADHD medication, compared with 3.7% of boys born in January–March. Corresponding numbers for girls were 2.2% and 1.3%, respectively. The adjusted hazard ratio for ADHD medication for children born in October–December (reference: January–March) was 1.4 (95% confidence interval: 1.4–1.5) for boys and 1.8 (1.7–2.0) for girls. Analyses with diagnoses as outcome showed consistent results, and analyses restricted to siblings within the study population also supported the findings. Analysis by grade revealed an increased risk for children born late in the year from grade 3 onwards, with most marked differences in higher grades. Conclusions: Children youngest in grade had the highest risk of receiving ADHD treatment. Differences were most marked among older children.
Flying on course
Authors: Regan Padraic
Published: May 2017

This case sets out the long-standing tradition of entrepreneurship and innovation in a public-sector organization located on the periphery of both Ireland and Europe. With regional development and employment creation at its core, the airport has grappled with technological innovation, regulatory changes, cyclical industry downturns and ownership restructurings in order to survive.
Multiplying impact
Authors: Vohra Veena
Published: May 2017

Idobro, a Mumbai-based social enterprise, worked to multiply opportunities for women and green initiatives. Founded by Karon Shaiva, a female social entrepreneur, Idobro had grown significantly but faced critical issues related to its legal status for future growth. The case uses ’the strategic triangle’ model, a framework to analyse social enterprises, to analyse Idobro, as its founder Karon Shaiva is faced with the difficult decision to either shut down Idobro or recast it into a non-government organization. Either way, her decision would impact a carefully nurtured ecosystem of producers, consumers, employees and partners.
Risk-type preference shifts in response to performance feedback
Authors: Klingebiel Ronald
Published: May 2017

The behavioral literature examines how performance feedback drives risky change. In this conceptual article, I incorporate the overlooked alternative to risky change: not changing and the risk associated with such omission. After all, both commissions and omissions can have extensive outcome variability. I propose that firms alter their preference for the type or risk, depending on how well they fared with their previous preference. I then further qualify these shifts in two ways: I discuss the extent of risk that firms are likely to take in the form of omissions and commissions, respectively, and I consider the frequency and magnitude with which the shifts are likely to occur. Theory of risk-type preference shifts may explain and reconcile seemingly disparate prior findings on risk-taking in response to performance feedback. To facilitate future research on firm behavior and resource allocation in dynamic environments, I provide three testable propositions and suggest ways to operationalize the new constructs.
Firms, crowds, and innovation
Authors: Felin Teppo , Lakhani Karim R , Tushman Michael L
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this article is to suggest a (preliminary) taxonomy and research agenda for the topic of “firms, crowds, and innovation” and to provide an introduction to the associated special issue. We specifically discuss how various crowd-related phenomena and practices—for example, crowdsourcing, crowdfunding, user innovation, and peer production—relate to theories of the firm, with particular attention on “sociality” in firms and markets. We first briefly review extant theories of the firm and then discuss three theoretical aspects of sociality related to crowds in the context of strategy, organizations, and innovation: (1) the functions of sociality (sociality as extension of rationality, sociality as sensing and signaling, sociality as matching and identity), (2) the forms of sociality (independent/aggregate and interacting/emergent forms of sociality), and (3) the failures of sociality (misattribution and misapplication). We conclude with an outline of future research directions and introduce the special issue papers and essays.
Skin microvascular endothelial dysfunction is associated with type 2 diabetes independently of microalbuminuria and arterial stiffness
Authors: Jonasson Hanna , Bergstrand Sara , Nystrom Fredrik H , Länne Toste , Östgren Carl Johan , Bjarnegård Niclas , Fredriksson Ingemar , Larsson Marcus , Strömberg Tomas
Published: May 2017

Skin and kidney microvascular functions may be affected independently in diabetes mellitus. We investigated skin microcirculatory function in 79 subjects with diabetes type 2, where 41 had microalbuminuria and 38 not, and in 41 age-matched controls. The oxygen saturation, fraction of red blood cells and speed-resolved microcirculatory perfusion (% red blood cells × mm/s) divided into three speed regions: 0–1, 1–10 and above 10 mm/s, were assessed during baseline and after local heating of the foot with a new device integrating diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and laser Doppler flowmetry. Arterial stiffness was assessed as carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. Subjects with diabetes and microalbuminuria had significantly higher carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity compared to subjects without microalbuminuria and to controls. The perfusion for speeds 0–1 mm/s and red blood cell tissue fraction were reduced in subjects with diabetes at baseline and after heating, independent of microalbuminuria. These parameters were correlated to HbA1c. In conclusion, the reduced nutritive perfusion and red blood cell tissue fraction in type 2 diabetes were related to long-term glucose control but independent of microvascular changes in the kidneys and large-vessel stiffness. This may be due to different pathogenic pathways in the development of nephropathy, large-vessel stiffness and cutaneous microvascular impairment.
A Quantitative Angiographic Comparison of Restenotic Tissue Following Placement of Drug-Eluting Stents and Bare Metal Stents in Symptomatic Patients With Femoropopliteal Disease
Authors: Ansel Gary M. , Jaff Michael R. , Popma Jeffrey J. , Battisti Anthony J. , Lottes Aaron E. , Harnish Paul , Dake Michael D.
Published: May 2017

Purpose: To evaluate the patterns of in-stent restenosis (ISR) within femoropopliteal bare metal stents (BMS) and drug-eluting stents (DES) as determined by quantitative angiographic analysis. Methods: Utilizing results from independent core laboratory angiographic imaging analysis, quantitative assessment of the restenotic tissue burden was evaluated in 33 patients with symptomatic femoropopliteal ISR, including 20 lesions in 19 patients (mean age 71.5±8.1 years; 11 men) treated with DES and 14 lesions in 14 patients (mean age 70.6±9.2 years; 9 men) treated with BMS. Results: The average time to target lesion revascularization was similar (8.7 months) for the DES and BMS groups. The DES group had significantly less recurrent disease burden (17.1%) compared with the BMS group (27.8%, p=0.03), representing a 39% relative reduction. Conclusion: Reduced restenotic tissue after endovascular intervention is associated with improved hemodynamics and fewer clinical symptoms and may explain the reduced need for reintervention in restenotic lesions initially treated with DES as compared with BMS. Further study of treatment failure modes may lead to improved device selection criteria to treat patients with peripheral artery disease.
MRI findings in lumbar spine following O2–O3 chemiodiscolysis: A long-term follow-up
Authors: Bruno Federico , Smaldone Fernando , Varrassi Marco , Arrigoni Francesco , Barile Antonio , Di Cesare Ernesto , Masciocchi Carlo , Splendiani Alessandra
Published: May 2017

Intradiscal O2–O3 injections are conventionally used as a minimally invasive treatment for lumbar disc herniation in patients not responding to conservative treatments. The aim of the present study is to report data of long-term imaging follow-up (3 years) of patients treated with intradiscal O2–O3 lumbar chemiodiscolysis. We evaluated the changes of disc volume and the modifications in disc appearance (in terms of disc degeneration) and endplate changes (according to Modic), comparing the results with a control group of patients. Our results showed a stable reduction of the disc herniation volume in patients treated compared with the control group, while we did not find statistically significant differences in terms of disc degeneration and endplate changes (Modic). We concluded that the O2–O3 discolysis, despite leading to a significant shrinkage of the disc herniation, does not involve – in the long term – biomechanical changes of the spine in terms of acceleration of the disc degeneration process in comparison with the natural course.
Delayed massive epistaxis from traumatic cavernous carotid false aneurysms: A report of two unusual cases
Authors: Mankahla Ncedile , LeFeuvre David , Taylor Allan
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Blunt head trauma can injure the cavernous segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA). This may result in a carotid cavernous fistula (CCF). Rarely, a traumatic aneurysm may bleed medially causing massive epistaxis.

Case presentation

We present two cases of traumatic intracavernous carotid pseudoaneurysms with delayed massive epistaxis. The patients were managed with endovascular treatment involving coil embolization with parent vessel sparing and detachable balloon occlusion with carotid sacrifice. Early clinical outcome was good in both patients. Wherever possible, the CARE1 guidelines were followed in the reporting.

Conclusion

These cases illustrate the delayed nature of traumatic aneurysms and the need for a high index of suspicion in the presence of skull base fractures. The use of endovascular detachable balloon occlusion and coil embolization treatment with parent vessel preservation is shown.
‘I Felt as Never Before, Under Any Sermon That I Ever Heard Preached’: Word, Image, and the Oberammergau Passion Play, 1840–1900
Authors: Groeneveld Leanne
Published: May 2017

In the 1840s and 1850s, accounts of the Oberammergau Passion Play began to appear in England and the United States. By the turn of the century, the production had become a tourist attraction for the wealthy and a frequent subject of books and articles for the middle classes. Writers suggested that the play's spectacle represented Christ's Passion more accurately and powerfully than any spoken sermon or written gospel could, establishing Oberammergau as an important religious as well as aesthetic pilgrimage site. Extending their privileging of spectacle over the written word, writers emphasised in turn the inadequacy of their own descriptions, reminding those who could not afford to travel to Oberammergau that published accounts could never accurately represent the experience of witnessing the play. Readers who had not seen the production were at once reminded of their economic and religious disadvantages as the play grew in fame.
Menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ssewanyana Derrick , Bitanihirwe Byron Kiiza Yafesi
Published: May 2017

Menstruation is a delicate physiological process through which a shedding of uterine lining occurs each month in females of reproductive age. Often considered a taboo subject, menstruation is seldom openly discussed in developing parts of the world. This article explores menstrual hygiene management (MHM) in sub-Saharan Africa and emphasizes the urgent and neglected need for feasible solutions, especially among adolescent girls. Optimizing menstrual hygiene interventions will require an integration of both knowledge and skill training gained through education on MHM alongside an improvement of access to girl-friendly water, sanitation and hygiene facilities in addition to access to low-cost hygienic sanitary products. To facilitate the identification and implementation of feasible and cultural relevant programs we recommend the utilization of public health intervention research.
Development and Validation of a Skinfold Model for Estimation of Body Density for a Safe Weight Reduction in Young Iranian Wrestlers
Authors: Riyahi-Alam Sadjad , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Kabirizadeh Yaser , Mansournia Nasrin , Steyerberg Ewout , Kordi Ramin
Published: May 2017

Background:

Adverse effects of excessive body mass reduction among wrestlers dictate minimum weight determination through body composition. Although skinfold equations are essential to estimate body composition in the field setting, they are mostly derived from Western societies and may lack generalizability to other populations.

Purpose:

Previously published skinfold equations lacked external validity in predicting body density of Iranian wrestlers. We aimed to derive a new anthropometric model specific to young Iranian male wrestlers.

Study design:

Cross-sectional cohort study.

Level of evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

One hundred twenty-six Iranian male wrestlers with at least 1 year of experience and a mean age of 19 ± 4.0 years underwent underwater weight analysis for body density estimation and anthropometric measurements. The previously published equations were validated, followed by new regression modeling, using multivariable fractional polynomials, with body density as the criterion predicted by common anthropometric variables. The final model was validated throughout the modeling procedure using 1000 bootstrap replications.

Results:

The mean body fat percentage (%BF) was 12.6% (95% CI, 11.9%-13.4%), lower than that of previous studies. Six previously published equations each had significant deviations from the line of identity (all P < 0.001). The new prediction equation combined subscapular, tricipital, and midaxillary skinfolds and body mass index cubed to predict body density.

Conclusion:

The development of ethnicity-specific equations, using statistically unbiased and comprehensive validation methods, is imperative for body composition estimation to determine the minimum weight for regulation of health in athletes.

Clinical Relevance:

Using equations without external validation can bias the prediction of minimum weight, leading to unsafe weight reduction by athletes. Compared with a previous study, much lower mean %BF was found using an ethnicity-specific equation (12.6% vs 15.9%). This difference observed in %BF prediction could affect safe fat reduction in athletes.
The Face of Suspicion
Authors: Lloyd E. Paige , Kunstman Jonathan W. , Tuscherer Taylor , Bernstein Michael J.
Published: May 2017

Because Whites use positivity to conceal bias, people of color may question whether Whites’ positivity is genuine. We predicted that those suspicious of Whites’ motives may mentally represent Whites as less trustworthy and more hostile than those low in suspicion. We tested these predictions using reverse correlation. First, we examined high- and low-suspicion Black participants’ mental representations of Whites using neutrally expressed (Study 1a) and smiling (Study 2a) White base faces. In Study 2b, we compared suspicious Black participants’ mental representations of Whites to a randomly generated control. In Study 2c, we extend these results to perceptions of smile authenticity and rule out a potential stimulus effect. The results suggest that compared to unsuspicious participants and controls, suspicious Black participants hold less trustworthy, less authentic, and sometimes more hostile representations of Whites. Suspicion’s effect on intergroup dynamics may therefore extend up the cognitive stream to the fundamental mental representations of Whites.
Absent right common carotid artery associated with aberrant right subclavian artery
Authors: Uchino Akira , Uwabe Kazuhiko , Osawa Iichiro
Published: May 2017

Rarely, the external and internal carotid arteries arise separately from the brachiocephalic trunk and right subclavian artery (SA) or the aortic arch and reflect the absence of a common carotid artery (CCA). We report a 45-year-old man with absent right CCA associated with aberrant right SA, an extremely rare combination, diagnosed by computed tomography (CT) angiography during follow-up for postoperative aortic dissection. Retrospective careful observation of preoperative postcontrast CT revealed the absent right CCA. Previously reported arch variations associated with absent CCA include cervical aortic arch, double aortic arch, and right aortic arch.
Combination therapy in pulmonary arterial hypertension: recent accomplishments and future challenges
Authors: Lajoie Annie‐Christine , Bonnet Sebastien , Provencher Steeve
Published: May 2017

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life‐threatening disease characterized by a progressive increase in pulmonary vascular resistance, ultimately leading to right heart failure and death. Throughout the past 20 years, numerous specific pharmacologic agents, including phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors, endothelin receptor antagonists, prostaglandins, and more recently, soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators and selective IP prostacyclin receptor agonist, have emerged for the treatment of PAH. Early clinical trials were typically of short‐term duration, comparing the effects of PAH‐targeted therapies versus placebo and using exercise tolerance as the primary endpoint in most trials. A meta‐analysis of these trials documented a reduction in short‐term mortality of ∼40% with monotherapy. More recently, we have witnessed a progressive shift in PAH study designs using longer event‐driven trials comparing the effects of upfront and sequential combination therapy on clinical worsening that is perceived as a more clinically relevant outcome measure. Recent meta‐analyses also documented that combination therapy significantly reduced the risk of clinical worsening by ∼35% compared with monotherapy alone.

In this review article, we will discuss the evolution of treatments and clinical trial design in the field of PAH over the past decades with a special focus on combination therapy and its current role in the management of PAH. We will also detail unresolved questions regarding the future of PAH patients’ care and the challenges of future clinical trials.
What to do when you question cardiac troponin values
Authors: Mair Johannes , Lindahl Bertil , Müller Christian , Giannitsis Evangelos , Huber Kurt , Möckel Martin , Plebani Mario , Thygesen Kristian , Jaffe Allan S
Published: May 2017

High-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays enable cardiac troponin measurement with a high degree of analytical sensitivity and a low level of analytical imprecision at the low measuring range. One of the most important advantages of these new assays is that they allow novel, more rapid approaches for ruling in or ruling out acute myocardial infarctions. The increase in the early diagnostic sensitivity of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays comes at the cost of a reduced acute myocardial infarction specificity of the biomarker, because more patients with other causes of acute or chronic myocardial injury without overt myocardial ischaemia are detected than with previous cardiac troponin assays. Increased troponin concentrations that do not fit with the clinical presentation are seen in the daily routine, mainly as a result of a variety of pathologies, and if tested in the same sample, even discrepancies between high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I and troponin T test results may sometimes be found as well. In addition, analytically false-positive test results occasionally may occur since no assay is perfect. In this review, we summarise the biochemical, pathophysiological and analytical background of the work-up for such a clinical setting.
Case report of novel CACNA1A gene mutation causing episodic ataxia type 2
Authors: Isaacs David Alan , Bradshaw Michael J , Brown Kelly , Hedera Peter
Published: May 2017

Background:

Episodic ataxia type 2 (OMIM 108500) is an autosomal dominant channelopathy characterized by paroxysms of ataxia, vertigo, nausea, and other neurologic symptoms. More than 50 mutations of the CACNA1A gene have been discovered in families with episodic ataxia type 2, although 30%–50% of all patients with typical episodic ataxia type 2 phenotype have no detectable mutation of the CACNA1A gene.

Case:

A 46-year-old Caucasian man, with a long history of bouts of imbalance, vertigo, and nausea, presented to our hospital with 2 weeks of ataxia and headache. Subsequent evaluation revealed a novel mutation in the CACNA1A gene: c.1364 G > A Arg455Gln. Acetazolamide was initiated with symptomatic improvement.

Conclusion:

This case report expands the list of known CACNA1A mutations associated with episodic ataxia type 2.
Spontaneous levitation of dropped nucleus on first post-operative day
Authors: Naik Mayuresh P , Sethi Harindersingh , Mehta Anuj , Bhalla Abhinav , Saluja Komal
Published: May 2017

A 60-year-old male patient presenting with gradual painless progressive diminution of vision was diagnosed with nuclear sclerosis grade III (LOCS). Intra-operatively, there was a nuclear drop into the vitreous cavity. The patient was left aphakic and was deferred for further vitreoretinal procedure the next day. On first post-op day, the nucleus fragment (of roughly the same size that had dropped into the vitreous) was seen in the anterior chamber. A gentle ultrasonography B-Scan done for posterior segment evaluation was anechoic. Incision was enlarged and viscoexpression of the nucleus fragment was done followed by thorough anterior vitrectomy. Post-operatively, dilated full fundus examination showed clear vitreous cavity without any evidence of retinal tear or detachment. This was later confirmed by an anechoic ultrasonography B-Scan. After 2 weeks, three-piece foldable IOL was placed in the sulcus with posterior optic capture and the patient attained a best-corrected visual acuity of 6/9P.
Validation of descriptive clinical pathway criteria in the systematic identification of publications in emergency medicine
Authors: Adjemian Raffi , Zirkohi Atbin Moradi , Coombs Robin , Mickan Sharon , Vaillancourt Christian
Published: May 2017

Background

Heterogeneity in both the definition and terminology of clinical pathways presents a challenge to the systematic identification of primary studies for review purposes. Recently developed clinical pathway identification criteria may facilitate both the identification and assessment of clinical pathway studies. The goal of this publication is the validation of these five criteria in a descriptive systematic review of actively implemented clinical pathway studies in the emergency department setting. The main outcome measure is the inter-rater agreement of investigators using the clinical pathway criteria.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search from 2006 to 2015 using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and CINAHL. All types of prospective trial designs were eligible. We identified relevant publications using the above-mentioned clinical pathway criteria. Two reviewers independently collected data using a piloted data abstraction tool.

Results

We identified 5947 publications, with 472 potentially relevant full text publications retrieved. Of these, 357 did not meet preliminary study inclusion criteria, leaving 115 publications where the clinical pathway criteria were applied. Ultimately, 44 publications were included. The inter-rater agreement of the criteria was very good (κ = 0.81, 95% Confidence Interval = 0.70–0.92). The vast majority of studies were excluded because the intervention did not meet the criterion of being multidisciplinary in nature.

Conclusion

These criteria are a useful instrument to reliably identify clinical pathway publications for systematic review purposes in an emergency department setting. Future modification of these criteria may improve their usefulness. Particular attention should be placed on clarifying what is meant by multidisciplinary involvement within the context of clinical pathway interventions, with specific emphasis placed on delineating the level of involvement of each discipline and their decision-making responsibility.
Beyond gene dictation in oral squamous cell carcinoma progression and its therapeutic implications
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Sarode Sachin C , Sarode Gargi S , Majumdar Barnali , Patil Shankargouda , Sharma Nilesh Kumar
Published: May 2017

In recent, mechanisms behind transition from normal epithelium to premalignancy and finally to oral carcinoma have been linked to genetic and epigenetic multistep process. These epigenetic changes are heritable, potentially reversible, and presented as epigenetic signature normal and carcinoma cells. Such epigenetic alterations have been suggested as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and small noncoding RNAs. These extragenetic changes have been reported to play a role in the modulation of several key signaling, regulatory, and repair routes in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and other carcinomas. In this review, we summarize scientific developments in the last decade, substantiating the role of extra- and beyond genetic molecular signatures in OSCC progression, and potential biomarker and implications in chemotherapy intervention.
Work Hours of Immigrant Versus U.S.-Born Female Workers
Authors: Bae Sung-Heui
Published: May 2017

This study was a secondary analysis of cross-sectional data extracted from the 2011-2012 California Health Interview Survey. Data from 8,931 full-time (i.e., 21 hours or more per week) women workers aged 18 to 85 years were analyzed to examine the nature and prevalence of immigrant female workers’ work hours, overtime, and related factors in the United States compared to U.S.-born female workers. Results showed that foreign-born female workers did not work longer hours than U.S.-born female workers. Foreign-born female workers who reported poor health worked longer hours than did their U.S.-born counterparts. Foreign-born female workers who were self-employed or worked in family businesses tended to work longer hours than did those women who worked for private companies or nonprofit organizations.
Relationship of Musculotendinous Junction Location to Harvested Semitendinosus and Gracilis Tendon Length
Authors: Ilahi Omer A. , Stautberg Eugene F. , Mansfield David J. , Qadeer Ali A.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Harvested hamstring tendon length has received scant attention in published anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction literature, yet length can limit the ability to increase graft diameter by folding the tendon over more than once. Indeed, some ultrashort tendons may be too short to yield a clinically useful graft after being folded over just once. Ultimately, the total length of a harvested hamstring tendon may depend on the length of the tendon distal to its musculotendinous (MT) junction.

Purpose:

To compare the lengths of harvested hamstring tendons to the location of the MT junction to help predict abnormally short tendon harvest.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Eighty-four consecutive patients undergoing primary ACL reconstruction using hamstring tendon autografts underwent intraoperative measurement of the total length of each harvested semitendinosus (ST) and gracilis (G) tendon, as well as the distance from the MT junction to that tendon’s distal end (ie, the “tendon-only” length).

Results:

The ratio of the tendon-only portion to total harvested tendon length averaged 0.52 (range, 0.39-0.71) for the ST and 0.52 (range, 0.43-0.71) for the G, suggesting a 95% chance of harvesting a tendon <15 cm in length for the tendon-only portion is <6.45 cm for ST or <6.75 cm for G tendons. There was moderate correlation between the lengths of harvested ST and G tendons with patient height as well as with the diameter of the combined, quadruple-stranded graft.

Conclusion:

The ratio of the tendon-only length to total harvested length for both the ST and G appear to range from approximately 0.4 to 0.7. Patients with abnormally distal MT junctions of either their ST or G are likely to have an abnormally short harvest of that tendon, even in the absence of technical harvesting error.
Novel SCN1A and GABRA1 Gene Mutations With Diverse Phenotypic Features and the Question on the Existence of a Broader Spectrum of Dravet Syndrome
Authors: Gontika Maria P. , Konialis Christopher , Pangalos Constantine , Papavasiliou Antigone
Published: May 2017

In the light of modern molecular technologies, the understanding of the complexity of the numerous genotype–phenotype correlations regarding Dravet syndrome is mandatory. Motivated by 2 patients, whose whole-exome sequencing revealed novel mutations that exemplify the phenotypic and genetic heterogeneities associated with typical and atypical Dravet syndrome presentations, the authors discuss the existence of a broader spectrum of Dravet syndrome. The first patient is a 4-year-old boy with fairly typical Dravet syndrome and a novel sodium channel α1 subunit gene mutation of high-predicted combined pathogenicity likelihood. The second patient is a 15-year-old boy with some atypical features of Dravet syndrome, harboring a novel mutation of the γ-aminobutyric acid receptor α1 subunit gene, whose role in this syndrome pathogenesis has recently been highlighted. A brief review of the literature reveals that none of the current diagnostic criteria is thoroughly predictive of the disease, and phenotypic discrepancies are common among patients carrying atypical Dravet syndrome mutations. The authors conclude that the discussion of a Dravet syndrome spectrum is relevant.
Economics of Minimum Wage Legislations—Lessons for Emerging Market Economies
Authors: Seth Vijay K.
Published: May 2017

Philosophical bases for the origin for minimum wage legislation are implicit in the concepts of subsistence and natural wages evolved by classical economists.11 The earlier version of this article was presented in the annual conference organized by The Indian Society of Labour Economics, held at IIT Guwahati in November 2016. The comments given by the participants of the conference have been incorporated. However, conceptualization of the working of market, evolved by microeconomic theory, propounded that minimum wage law distorts working of the labor market. These alternative formulations give impression that this law is politically correct but not based on sound economics. Since the beginning of the process of economic reforms in most of the emerging market economies, some of the scholars, following the strand of thought advocated by microeconomic theory, are arguing for the amendments in minimum wage legislations to make the labor market flexible. In the present article, an attempt has been made to evaluate the appropriateness of this strand of thought with the help of existing theoretical and empirical studies. The evaluation clearly shows that strand of thought based on microeconomic theory is not appropriate. This is because demand of the factor of production in an economy is not based on the price of the factor alone. It also depends on price of substitute factor and the growth rate of the economy. Moreover, minimum wage legislations act as determinant of efficiency wages for the workers employed at the bottom of the job ladders.
Polycomb repressive complexes in hematological malignancies
Authors: Iwama Atsushi
Published: May 2017

The deregulation of polycomb repressive complexes (PRCs) has been reported in a number of hematological malignancies. These complexes exert oncogenic or tumor-suppressive functions depending on tumor type. These findings have revolutionized our understanding of the pathophysiology of hematological malignancies and the impact of deregulated epigenomes in tumor development and progression. The therapeutic targeting of PRCs is currently attracting increasing attention and being extensively examined in clinical studies, leading to new therapeutic strategies that may improve the outcomes of patients with hematological malignancies.
PD-1 blockade enhances elotuzumab efficacy in mouse tumor models
Authors: Bezman Natalie A. , Jhatakia Amy , Kearney Alper Y. , Brender Ty , Maurer Mark , Henning Karla , Jenkins Misty R. , Rogers Amy J. , Neeson Paul J. , Korman Alan J. , Robbins Michael D. , Graziano Robert F.
Published: May 2017

Key Points

The combination of elotuzumab and an anti–PD-1 antibody leads to enhanced antitumor efficacy in mouse models. Enhanced antitumor activity is likely due to the promotion of tumor-infiltrating NK and T-cell activity.
Randomized Phase II Study of Azacitidine Alone or in Combination With Lenalidomide or With Vorinostat in Higher-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia: North American Intergroup Study SWOG S1117
Authors: Sekeres Mikkael A. , Othus Megan , List Alan F. , Odenike Olatoyosi , Stone Richard M. , Gore Steven D. , Litzow Mark R. , Buckstein Rena , Fang Min , Roulston Diane , Bloomfield Clara D. , Moseley Anna , Nazha Aziz , Zhang Yanming , Velasco Mario R. , Gaur Rakesh , Atallah Ehab , Attar Eyal C. , Cook Elina K. , Cull Alyssa H. , Rauh Michael J. , Appelbaum Frederick R. , Erba Harry P.
Published: May 2017

Purpose

Azacitidine is standard, first-line therapy in higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Whether azacitidine-based combinations with lenalidomide or vorinostat produce superior overall response rates (ORRs) to azacitidine is not known.

Patients and Methods

North American Intergroup Study S1117 is a phase II/III trial that randomly assigned patients with higher-risk MDS and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) 1:1:1 to azacitidine (75 mg/m2/day on days 1 to 7 of a 28-day cycle); azacitidine plus lenalidomide (10 mg/day on days 1 to 21); or azacitidine plus vorinostat (300 mg twice daily on days 3 to 9). The primary phase II end point was improved ORR.

Results

Of 277 patients from 90 centers, 92 received azacitidine, 93 received azacitidine plus lenalidomide, and 92 received azacitidine plus vorinostat. Median age was 70 years (range, 28 to 93 years), 85 patients (31%) were female, and 53 patients (19%) had CMML. Serious adverse events were similar across arms, although combination-arm patients were more likely to undergo nonprotocol-defined dose modifications ( P < .001).With a median follow-up of 23 months (range, 1 to 43 months), the ORR was 38% for patients receiving azacitidine, 49% for azacitidine plus lenalidomide ( P = .14 v azacitidine), and 27% for azacitidine plus vorinostat ( P = .16 v azacitidine). For patients with CMML, ORR was higher for azacitidine plus lenalidomide versus azacitidine (68% v 28%, P = .02) but similar for all arms across cytogenetic subgroups, as was remission duration and overall survival. ORR was higher with mutations in DNMT3A and lower for SRSF2, whereas ORR duration improved with fewer mutations. Lenalidomide dose reduction was associated with worse overall survival (hazard ratio, 1.30; P = .05).

Conclusion

Patients with higher-risk MDS treated with azacitidine-based combinations had similar ORR to azacitidine monotherapy, although patients with CMML benefitted from azacitidine plus lenalidomide. The efficacy of combination regimens may have been affected by dose modifications.
Endogenous AJAP1 associates with the cytoskeleton and attenuates angiogenesis in endothelial cells
Authors: Hötte Katharina , Smyrek Isabell , Starzinski-Powitz Anna , Stelzer Ernst H. K.
Published: May 2017

The adherence junction associated protein 1 (AJAP1, aka shrew-1) is presumably a type-I transmembrane protein localizing and interacting with the E-cadherin-catenin complex. In various tumors, AJAP1 expression is reduced or lost, including hepatocellular and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and glial-derived tumors. The aberrant expression of AJAP1 is associated with alterations in cell migration, invasion, increased tumor growth, and tumor vascularization, suggesting AJAP1 as a putative tumor suppressor. We show that AJAP1 attenuates sprouting angiogenesis by reducing endothelial migration and invasion capacities. Further, we show for the first time that endogenous AJAP1 is associated with the microtubule cytoskeleton. This linkage is independent from cell confluency and stable during angiogenic sprouting in vitro. Our work suggests that AJAP1 is a putative negative regulator of angiogenesis, reducing cell migration and invasion by interfering with the microtubule network. Based on our results and those of other authors, we suggest AJAP1 as a novel tumor suppressor and diagnostic marker.
The role of nitric oxide during embryonic epidermis development ofXenopus laevis
Authors: Tomankova Silvie , Abaffy Pavel , Sindelka Radek
Published: May 2017

Nitric oxide (NO) is a potent radical molecule that participates during various biological processes such as vasodilation, cell proliferation, immune response and neurotransmission. NO mainly activates soluble guanylate cyclase, leading to cGMP production and activation of protein kinase G and its downstream targets. Here we report the essential role of NO during embryonic epidermis development. Xenopus embryonic epidermis has become a useful model reflecting human epithelial tissue composition. The developing epidermis of Xenopus laevis is formed from specialized ionocytes, multi-ciliated, goblet and small secretory cells. We found that NO is mainly produced in multi-ciliated cells and ionocytes. Production of NO during early developmental stages is required for formation of multi-ciliated cells, ionocytes and small secretory cells by regulation of epidermal specific gene expression. The data from this research indicate a novel role of NO during development, which supports recent findings of NO production in human mucociliary and epithelium development.
A nomenclatural review of Argyreia (Convolvulaceae)
Authors: Staples G.W. , Traiperm Paweena
Published: May 2017

This paper accounts for all names published in Argyreia Lour., Lettsomia Roxb., and Moorcroftia Choisy, reconciles the taxonomy and nomenclature for those names based on study of type specimens for nearly all of them. In total, 135 species and 5 varieties are accepted; a significant increase in the species‐level diversity relative to previously published estimates in the literature. Concise summaries of the infrageneric relationships, distribution and biogeography, taxonomy, and nomenclatural complexities are provided; relevant literature is cited throughout. Excluded species and uncertain species are treated in separate sections. One new combination is made at varietal rank and one invalid name in current use is here validated. A comprehensive index is provided to all published names, cross‐referenced to the accepted name.
Report of the Nomenclature Committee for Algae: 17
Authors: Prud’homme van Reine Willem F.
Published: May 2017

Vertebraria Royle ex McCoy (fossil Gymnospermae) is recommended for conservation against Vertebraria Roussel (Algae: Rhodophyceae) and Catenaria Sorokin (Fungi: Blastocladiomycota) is recommended for conservation against Catenaria Roussel (Algae: Rhodophyceae). Trichomonas (Algae: Euglenophycota) is recommended for conservation with that spelling. Fucus baillouviana (Rhodophyceae) is recommended for outright rejection. Lagerheimia (De Toni) Chodat (Algae: Chlorophyceae) is not recommended for conservation against Lagerheima (Fungi: Ascomycota), and the Committee concluded that those two names are not sufficiently alike to be confused.
Report of the Nomenclature Committee for Fungi: 21 – Lists from working groups
Authors: May Tom W.
Published: May 2017

Six lists of names from working groups set up under Art. 14.13 are approved, consisting of 3 names of families, 43 names of genera and 5 names of species, to be treated as conserved against the listed synonymous or homonymous names. Lists were compiled by working groups approved by the International Commission on the Taxonomy of Fungi and the Nomenclature Committee for Fungi: on Cordyceps, Diaporthales, Dothideomycetes, Hypocreales, Leotiomycetes, and Trichoderma and Hypocrea. Issues around interpretation of Art. 14.13 and 56.3 and implementation of Art. 57.2 are discussed.
Phylogenetic relationships and generic re‐arrangements in “South Andean Loasas” (Loasaceae)
Authors: Acuña Rafael , Fließwasser Stella , Ackermann Markus , Henning Tilo , Luebert Federico , Weigend Maximilian
Published: May 2017

Loasaceae, a mostly American group, is one of the largest families of Cornales. In spite of considerable progress over the last 20 years, the relationships of some clades remain controversial, especially in the “South Andean Loasas” (SAL—Blumenbachia, Caiophora, Loasa, Scyphanthus). The present study addresses the phylogenetic relationships in SAL employing four plastid markers (rps16, trnL‐trnF, trnS‐trnG, matK) and ITS and aims at resolving the systematics and evolution of the group. Sequences obtained from a total of 59 SAL species (ca. 70% of the total, representing all lineages in the group) and 25 outgroup taxa were analysed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference approaches. ML best and BI strict consensus trees showed no significant differences in their topologies. Our results confirm that two species of Loasa ser. Malesherbioideae are not part of the SAL clade, but should be included in Presliophytum, a result which is here formalized. Blumenbachia (including sect. Angulatae and sect. Gripidea) is confirmed as a monophylum with high support. Loasa has to be redefined and restricted to a clade including only ser. Deserticolae, ser. Floribundae, ser. Loasa and ser. Macrospermae. Scyphanthus and Caiophora both are each monophyla and sister groups, but with two clades of Loasa as successive sister groups: (((Caiophora+Scyphanthus)+Loasa ser. Pinnatae)+(L. ser. Volubiles+L. ser. Acaules)) in a very well‐supported clade. Accordingly, Caiophora, Loasa ser. Pinnatae, L. ser. Volubiles, L. ser. Acaules and Scyphanthus could be included into a single genus, with Scyphanthus taking priority over Caiophora, creating a fairly heterogenous genus of ca. 52 species and requiring 50 new names. Alternatively, the clades Loasa ser. Pinnatae and L. ser. Volubiles + ser. Acaules can be removed into new segregate genera, which is here argued for and which requires the creation of only 16 new names. The new genus names and some of the new combinations are here formalized.
Phylogeny of the Athroismeae (Asteraceae), with a new circumscription of the tribe
Authors: Bengtson Annika , Enguind Markus , Pruski John F. , Anderberg Arne A.
Published: May 2017

Athroismeae is a small tribe of the Asteraceae‐Asteroideae, the members of which show considerable variation in morphology. A molecular phylogenetic study of the tribe is presented for the first time, based on plastid (ndhF, trnH‐pssbA, trnL‐trnF) and nuclear data (ETS, ITS). The phylogenetic relationships between the different genera within Athroismeae are discussed, and in addition, three unispecific genera: Anissochaeta, Artemissiopssiss and Symphyllocarpuss as well as Duhaldea (Inula) sstuhlmannii, all earlier placed in other tribes, are here shown to belong within Athroismeae. Symphyllocarpuss is sister to Centipeda and the earlier Symphyllocarpinae includes Centipedinae in synonymy. Furthermore, Cardossoa and Philyrophyllum are found to be integrated within Anissopappuss and their generic status cannot be maintained. An outline of an amended circumscription of the Athroismeae is presented, with three new combinations and a description of the new subtribe Lowryanthinae.