bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renin-angiotensin system inhibitors in patients with or without ischaemic mitral regurgitation after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Kim Kitae , Kaji Shuichiro , Kasamoto Manabu , Murai Ryosuke , Sasaki Yasuhiro , Kitai Takeshi , Yamane Takafumi , Ehara Natsuhiko , Kobori Atsushi , Kinoshita Makoto , Furukawa Yutaka
Published: December 2017

Objective

Little is known about the long-term effects of renin–angiotensin system inhibitors (RASI) on cardiovascular events in patients after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with ischaemic mitral regurgitation (IMR). The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of RASI with the incidence of adverse cardiac events in patients with or without IMR after AMI.

Methods

We reviewed charts of 1208 consecutive patients admitted with AMI who underwent emergency coronary angiography between 2000 and 2012. After excluding patients who died within 30 days, 551 patients were diagnosed to have mild or greater MR by transthoracic echocardiography (patients with IMR); the remaining 505 patients had no or trivial MR (non-IMR patients).

Results

Of the study patients, 395 (72%) patients with IMR and 403 (80%) non-IMR patients received RASI. Survival analysis showed that freedom from cardiac death and the composite of cardiac death and heart failure (HF) was significantly higher in patients with IMR receiving RASI than in those not receiving RASI (P<0.001 and P<0.001, respectively). Moreover, adjusted survival analysis using the inverse probability treatment weighting method showed a significant association of RASI therapy with reduced cardiac death(P=0.010) and the composite of cardiac death and HF (P=0.044) in patients with IMR. However, in non-IMR patients, there were no significant associations between RASI therapy and the outcome measures.

Conclusions

RASI therapy was associated with a lower incidence of adverse cardiac events in patients with IMR after AMI, but not in patients without IMR.
Using molecular dynamics to unravel phase composition behavior of nano-size pores in frozen soils: Does Young–Laplace equation apply in low temperature range?
Authors: Zhang Chao , Liu Zhen , Deng Peng
Published: December 2017

The phase composition curve of frozen soils is a fundamental relationship in understanding permafrost and seasonally frozen soils. However, due to the complex interplay between adsorption and capillarity, a clear physically based understanding of the phase composition curve in the low temperature range, i.e., <265 K, is still absent. Especially, it is unclear whether the Young–Laplace equation corresponding to capillarity still holds in nano-size pores where adsorption could dominate. In this paper, a framework based on molecular dynamics was developed to investigate the phase transition behavior of water confined in nano-size pores. A series of simulations was conducted to unravel the effects of the pore size and wettability on the freezing and melting of pore water. This is the first time that the phase composition behavior of frozen soils is analyzed using molecular dynamics. It is found that the Young–Laplace equation may not apply in the low temperature range.
Cryopreservation of Fagus crenata seeds: estimation of optimum moisture content for maintenance of seed viability by Bayesian modeling
Authors: Endoh Keita , Matsushita Michinari , Kimura Megumi K. , Hanaoka So , Kurita Yuko , Hanawa Eiichi , Kinoshita Satoshi , Abe Namio , Yamada Hiroo , Ubukata Masatoshi
Published: December 2017

Fagus crenata Blume is an important forestry tree species that plays a key biological role in natural forests. Because F. crenata forests are declining under global warming, the conservation of seed resources is necessary to maintain sustainable regeneration. We examined the capability of seed cryopreservation to achieve semi-permanent preservation of the F. crenata genetic resource. Seeds at 7%–26% moisture content (MC) exhibited greater than 64% viability, with developing radicles growing at 22 °C in 16 h photoperiods following chilling at 2 °C for 2 months. These seeds were then stored cryogenically at –170 °C for 6 months; cryopreservation at 26% MC reduced seed viability to 12%, whereas dry seeds (7%–14% MC) maintained viability and were comparable with seeds that had neither been dried nor cryopreserved. Drying seeds to 6% MC reduced viability to 47%; following cryopreservation, the viability of these seeds with such a low MC was 36%. Using a Bayesian model, we then determined that the optimal range of MC for the cryopreservation of F. crenata seeds was 9%–12%. We conclude that cryopreservation is feasible for the long-term storage of F. crenata seeds, drying of the seeds to the range of optimal MC retains high viability during cryogenic storage.
CLIMATE POLICY WITHOUT INTERTEMPORAL DICTATORSHIP: CHICHILNISKY CRITERION VERSUS CLASSICAL UTILITARIANISM IN DICE
Authors: BOTZEN W. J. WOUTER , VAN DEN BERGH JEROEN C. J. M. , CHICHILNISKY GRACIELA
Published: December 2017

Unlike discounting and the damage function, the social welfare function has not received so much attention in the debate on climate economics. An important challenge has been to combine efficiency and equity considerations in a single social welfare framework. The Chichilnisky criterion is one way to resolve this. We consider its implementation in the climate-economy model Dynamic Integrated Climate-Economy (DICE), and compare results for different damage functions, namely the standard one in DICE and the one proposed by Weitzman implying potential large climate damages at high temperature increases. We calculate optimal climate policy for different parameter settings and compare the results with those under the green golden rule (only final utility matters) and classical utilitarianism (no discounting). Optimal emission abatement trajectories turn out to be very different between standard discounted utilitarianism, classical utilitarianism and Chichilnisky specifications. The results are very sensitive to the damage function, the climate sensitivity parameter and especially the “Chichilnisky weight” given to utility of generations in the far future. We discuss conditions and reasons for preferring either classical utilitarianism or the Chichilnisky criterion, and conclude that a critical factor is the time horizon used in climate policy analysis. Adopting sustainable preferences as formalized by the Chichilnisky criterion in climate policy analysis has the advantage that the very long-term implications of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere on the environment and human welfare are not downplayed.
Understanding Institutional Deadlocks in Disaster Risk Reduction: The Financial and Legal Risk Root Causes in Genova, Italy
Authors: Scolobig Anna
Published: December 2017

Many countries, regions and towns around the world experience lack of action or delayed actions in the implementation of disaster risk reduction measures. One of the common causal explanations is the insufficient funding available to reduce risk, especially at the local level. However, so far few studies have provided an in-depth analysis of the root causes of these deadlocks in disaster risk reduction. This paper analyses risk root causes in Genova, a town situated in North West Italy and exposed to high impact weather events. The town has experienced an increase in the intensity of flood events in the past 50 years, causing casualties, evacuations, displacements and severe damage. Decisions about flood risk mitigation progressively became a highly contested issue, especially because of the delays in reinforcing the banks of the Bisagno river and the city’s flood defences. The causes of these delays are not to be found in the lack of technical solutions, but rather in the socio-political and institutional dynamics. The Risk Root Cause Analysis (RRCA) framework provided the theoretical and methodological background to identify the key root causes of the risk reduction deadlock: corruption accusations and legal conflicts, unfair criteria for funding allocation at the regional level, lack of coordination among funding agencies, side effects of austerity measures, mismatches between the political and disaster risk cycles. The results show that the strengthening of a certain system — e.g., anti-corruption measures to avoid bribery in public spending — may cause the weakening of another one — e.g., delays in protection works execution — and generate increased risk exposure and vulnerability. Another similar example regards the implementation of national austerity policies, which caused human resources’ constraints at the local level and shifts of public funding from the disaster risk reduction to other sectors such as health. Anticipation of these and other unintended side effects discussed in the paper as well as a better understanding of the root causes of the deadlocks in risk reduction, can contribute to the improvement of disaster management strategies.
A Paradigm Shift in Brain Research (1955-1970): Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Carlsson Arvid
Published: December 2017

When science began considering the brain from a chemistry rather than electrical standpoint, this marked the beginning of new perspectives on how this complex organ operated. Seminal work relating to dopamine helped to introduce the breakthrough concept of neurotransmitters leading to the understanding of the numerous circuitries within the brain. The observance of decreased dopamine levels when anti-psychotic drugs were administered helped to launch new medical treatments especially for patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease. Today stabilizer compounds are being tested to provide beneficial therapies for both elevated or decreased levels of dopamine as well as for other medical conditions.
Groundwater flood hazards and mechanisms in lowland karst terrains
Authors: Naughton Owen , McCormack Ted , Gill Laurence , Johnston Paul
Published: December 2017

The spatial and temporal complexities of flooding in karst terrains pose unique challenges in flood risk management. Lowland karst landscapes can be particularly susceptible to groundwater flooding due to a combination of low aquifer storage, high diffusivity and limited or absent surface drainage. Numerous notable groundwater flood events have been recorded in the Republic of Ireland throughout the twentieth century, but flooding during the winters of 2009 and 2015 was the most severe on record, causing widespread and prolonged disruption and damage to property and infrastructure. Effective flood risk management requires an understanding of the recharge, storage and transport mechanisms governing water movement across the landscape during flood conditions. Using information gathered from recent events, the main hydrological and geomorphological factors influencing flooding in these complex lowland karst groundwater systems are elucidated. Observed flood mechanisms included backwater flooding of sinks, high water levels in ephemerally flooded basins (turloughs), overtopping of depressions, and discharges from springs and resurgences. This paper addresses the need to improve our understanding of groundwater flooding in karst terrains to ensure efficient flood prevention and mitigation in the future, and thus helps to achieve the aims of the European Union Floods Directive.
Preparation and Characterization of Folate-Targeted Fe3O4 Nanoparticle Codelivering Cisplatin and TFPI-2 Plasmid DNA for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Therapy
Authors: Zhang Juan , Weng Huanhuan , Miao Xiangwan , Li Quanming , Wang Siqi , Xie Huifen , Liu Tao , Xie Minqiang
Published: December 2017

A novel folate (FA) receptor-targeted superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (SPIONs) codelivering cisplatin (CDDP) and tissue factor pathway inhibitor-2 (TFPI-2) plasmid DNA (pDNA) was constructed. The core shell nanocomposites (FA-PEG-PEI@SPION-CDDP-TFPI-2) were composed of superparamagnetic Fe3O4 core that binds CDDP and TFPI-2 shell that combines with folate-polyethylene glycol-polyethyleneimine (FA-PEG-PEI) via electrostatic interaction. The shell containing FA-PEG-PEI and TFPI-2 plasmid was synthesized through amidation reaction and electrostatic adsorption and the core containing SPION-CDDP was modified by aldehyde sodium alginate. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectra on FA-PEG-PEI polymers showed characteristic peaks of various metabolites in corresponding frequency. Transmission electron microscopy image of FA-PEG-PEI@SPION-CDDP-TFPI-2 nanoparticles demonstrated a near-monodisperse spherical morphology, while dynamic light scattering studies indicated an intensity-average diameter of 149.5 nm. Zeta potential was 14.89 ± 1.83 mv and the final concentration of loaded CDDP was 100 ug/ml. Gel electrophoresis data showed that the nanocomposite would protect TFPI-2 pDNA from being digested by DNases. Compared with CNE-2 cells, the good targetability and better gene transfection efficiency (57.9%) were detected by Prussian blue iron stain and fluorescence analysis in HNE-1 cells in vitro. The results suggested the potential application of FA-PEG-PEI@SPION-CDDP-TFPI-2 as a multifunctional anticancer nanomedicine on targeting therapy for FR positive NPC.
Tracking the Origin and Deciphering the Phylogenetic Relationship of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus in Ecuador
Authors: Barrera Maritza , Garrido-Haro Ana , Vaca María S. , Granda Danilo , Acosta-Batallas Alfredo , Pérez Lester J.
Published: December 2017

In 2010, new Chinese strains of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), clinically more severe than the classical strains, emerged. These strains were spread to United States in 2013 through an intercontinental transmission from China with further spreading across the world, evidencing the emergent nature of these strains. In the present study, an analysis of PEDV field sequences from Ecuador was conducted by comparing all the PEDV S gene sequences available in the GenBank database. Phylogenetic comparisons and Bayesian phylogeographic inference based on complete S gene sequences were also conducted to track the origin and putative route of PEDV. The sequence from the PED-outbreak in Ecuador was grouped into the clade II of PEDV genogroup 2a together with other sequences of isolates from Mexico, Canada, and United States. The phylogeographic study revealed the emergence of the Chinese PEDV strains, followed by spreading to US in 2013, from US to Korea, and later the introduction of PEDV to Canada, Mexico, and Ecuador directly from the US. The sources of imports of live swine in Ecuador in 2014 were mainly from Chile and US. Thus, this movement of pigs is suggested as the main way for introducing PEDV to Ecuador.
Gene Expression, Oxidative Stress, and Senescence of Primary Coronary Endothelial Cells Exposed to Postprandial Serum of Healthy Adult and Elderly Volunteers after Oven-Cooked Meat Meals
Authors: Laura Costarelli , Robertina Giacconi , Piacenza Francesco , Basso Andrea , Pacetti Deborah , Balzano Michele , Gagliardi Riccardo , Frega Natale Giuseppe , Mocchegiani Eugenio , Provinciali Mauro , Malavolta Marco
Published: December 2017

Epidemiological studies have linked high consumption of meat with major age-related diseases including cardiovascular diseases. Abnormal postprandial increases in plasma lipids after a meat meal have been hypothesized among the pathogenetic mechanisms. However, it is still unknown if the postprandial serum derived after a normal meat meal is able to affect endothelial function, and if the type of meat and the age of the donors are critical factors. Here, we show the effects of postprandial sera derived from healthy adults and elderly volunteers who consumed meat meals on human coronary artery endothelial cell (HCAEC) oxidative stress, gene expression, DNA damage, and cellular senescence. We observed that a single exposure to postprandial serum induces a slight increase in ROS that is associated with modulation of gene expression pathways related to oxidative stress response and metabolism. The postprandial-induced increase in ROS is not associated with a measurable DNA oxidative damage. However, repeated exposure to postprandial serum induces an acceleration of cellular senescence. Taking into account the deleterious role of cellular senescence in age-related vascular diseases, the results suggest a new mechanism by which excessive meat consumption and time spent in postprandial state may affect health status during aging.
Anisotropic Universe inf(G,T)Gravity
Authors: Shamir M. Farasat
Published: December 2017

This paper is devoted to investigating the recently introducedf(G,T)theory of gravity, whereGis the Gauss-Bonnet term andTis the trace of the energy-momentum tensor. For this purpose, anisotropic background is chosen and a power lawf(G,T)gravity model is used to find the exact solutions of field equations. In particular, a general solution is obtained which is further used to reconstruct some important solutions in cosmological contexts. The physical quantities like energy density, pressure, and equation of state parameter are calculated. A Starobinsky-likef2(T)model is proposed which is used to analyze the behavior of universe for different values of equation of state parameter. It is concluded that presence of termTin the bivariate functionf(G,T)may give many cosmologically important solutions of the field equations.
(Mesenchymal) Stem Cell-Based Therapy in Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Animal Model: Risk of Immunogenicity and Tumorigenicity
Authors: Večerić-Haler Ž. , Cerar A. , Perše M.
Published: December 2017

Pathogenesis of AKI is complex and involves both local events in the kidney as well as systemic effects in the body that are interconnected and interdependent. Despite intensive investigations there is still no pharmacological agent that could provide complete protection against cisplatin nephrotoxicity. In the last decade mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been proposed as a potentially useful therapeutic strategy in various diseases, including acute kidney injury. Although MSCs have potent immunosuppressive properties, animal studies also suggest that transplanted MSCs may elicit immune response. Interestingly, tumorigenicity of transplanted MSCs in animal studies has been rarely studied. Since the risk of tumorigenicity of particular therapy as well as the immune response to solid or cell grafts is a major issue in clinical trials, the aim of the present paper is to critically summarize the results of MSC transplantation on animal models of AKI, particularly cisplatin-induced animal models, and to expose results and main concerns about immunogenicity and tumorigenicity of transplanted MSCs, two important issues that need to be addressed in future studies.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth Affects the Responsiveness to Colchicine in Familial Mediterranean Fever
Authors: Verrecchia E. , Sicignano L. L. , La Regina M. , Nucera G. , Patisso I. , Cerrito L. , Montalto M. , Gasbarrini A. , Manna R.
Published: December 2017

Objective. Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autosomal recessive disease due to a MEFV gene mutation. Since Helicobacter pylori infection has been described to increase the severity and frequency of FMF attacks, we evaluate if overgrowth of small intestinal bacterial (SIBO), associated with a release of bacterial products, can affect the response to colchicine in FMF patients poorly responsive to colchicine. Methods. We revised our Periodic Fever Centre database to detect FMF patients who were poorly responsive to colchicine, without a well-defined cause of drug resistance. They were evaluated for SIBO presence, then treated with decontamination therapy. Results. Among 223 FMF patients, 49 subjects show colchicine resistance, and no other known causes of colchicine unresponsiveness has been found in 25 patients. All 25 patients underwent glucose breath test; 20 (80%) of them were positive, thus affected by SIBO. After a successful decontamination treatment, 11 patients (55%) did not show FMF attacks during the following three months (p<0.01), while 9 of them revealed a significant reduction of the number of attacks compared to three months before (p<0.01). Conclusion. The SIBO eradication improves laboratory and clinical features of FMF patients. Thus, patients with unresponsiveness to colchicine treatment should be investigated for SIBO.
Prognostic Association of Circulating Neutrophil Count with No-Reflow in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction following Successful Primary Percutaneous Intervention
Authors: Tian Jinfan , Liu Yue , Liu Yanfei , Song Xiantao , Zhang Min , Xu Feng , Yuan Fei , Lyu Shuzheng
Published: December 2017

Objective.The aim of the present study was to investigate the predictive value of neutrophil count for no-reflow in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who underwent successful primary percutaneous intervention (PCI).Methods.We conducted a retrospective study of 361 patients diagnosed with acute STEMI between 2011 and 2015. All patients underwent successful PCI within 12 h from the onset of symptoms. Angiographic no-reflow was diagnosed based on a post-PCI thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow grade ≤ 2 without mechanical obstruction. According to a neutrophil count cut-off determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, patients were divided into two groups: group A (neutrophil count < 9.14 × 109/L) and group B (neutrophil count ≥ 9.14 × 109/L).Results.Compared to patients in the normal reflow group, patients with no-reflow had higher neutrophil counts (P<0.05). The incidence rate of no-reflow in group A (18, 9.3%) was significantly lower than that in group B (38). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a neutrophil count ≥ 9.14 × 109/L was independently predictive for no-reflow (odds ratio = 4.474, 95% confidence interval: 1.610–12.433,P=0.004) after adjusting for potential confounders.Conclusions.A circulating neutrophil count ≥ 9.14 × 109/L is independently associated with no-reflow in patients with acute STEMI following primary PCI.
Hermite-Hadamard Type Inequalities Associated with Coordinated((s,m),QC)-Convex Functions
Authors: Bai Yu-Mei , Wu Shan-He , Wu Ying
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we introduce the definition of coordinated((s,m),QC)-convex function and establish some Hermite-Hadamard type integral inequalities for coordinated((s,m),QC)-convex functions.
Teratoid Cyst of the Postauricular Region: The First Ever Case Report
Authors: Ranabhat Sabin , Tiwari Mamata , Maharjan Sushna
Published: December 2017

Rudolf Virchow is considered to be the first scientist to have used the word sebaceous cyst. It was thought that these lesions occurred due to retention of sebaceous secretion consequent to obstruction of sebaceous ducts of sebaceous glands, although that was found not to be the case. In all these cysts, the cavity is filled with keratin. There are six types of keratin-filled cysts, namely, epidermoid, dermoid, teratoid, keratinous, trichilemmal, and teratoma cyst, which have one common name “dermoid cyst.” Of the six, teratoid cyst is the least common. In contrast to other dermoid cysts, teratoid cysts contain tissue elements derived from all the three germ layers, namely, ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. Teratomas can be differentiated from teratoid cysts by the fact that recognizable organ structures may be found in the former; examples include teeth and skin. Teratoid cysts can develop anywhere in the body but rarely arise in the head and neck region. They have never been reported in the postauricular region. In this case report, we present a case of teratoid cyst in the postauricular region in a 21-year-old female. The significance of this case lies in its rarity.
A New Approach for Delivering Customized Security Everywhere: Security Service Chain
Authors: Liu Yi , Zhang Hong-qi , Liu Jiang , Yang Ying-jie
Published: December 2017

Security functions are usually deployed on proprietary hardware, which makes the delivery of security service inflexible and of high cost. Emerging technologies such as software-defined networking and network function virtualization go in the direction of executing functions as software components in virtual machines or containers provisioned in standard hardware resources. They enable network to provide customized security service by deploying Security Service Chain (SSC), which refers to steering flow through multiple security functions in a particular order specified by individual user or application. However, SSC Deployment Problem (SSC-DP) needs to be solved. It is a challenging problem for various reasons, such as the heterogeneity of instances in terms of service capacity and resource demand. In this paper, we propose an SSC-based approach to deliver security service to users without worrying about physical locations of security functions. For SSC-DP, we present a three-phase method to solve it while optimizing network and security resource allocation. The presented method allows network to serve a large number of flows and minimizes the latency seen by flows. Comparative experiments on the fat-tree and Waxman topologies show that our method performs better than other heuristics under a wide range of network conditions.
Clinical Significance of PD-L1+ Exosomes in Plasma of Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Theodoraki Marie-Nicole , Yerneni Saigopalakrishna S. , Hoffmann Thomas K. , Gooding William E. , Whiteside Theresa L.
Published: December 2017

Purpose: The microenvironment of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) is highly immunosuppressive. HNSCCs expressing elevated levels of PD-L1 have especially poor outcome. Exosomes that carry PD-L1 and suppress T-cell functions have been isolated from plasma of patients with HNSCC. The potential contributions of PD-L1+ exosomes to immune suppression and disease activity are evaluated.

Experimental Design: Exosomes isolated from plasma of 40 HNSCC patients by size exclusion chromatography were captured on beads using anti-CD63 Abs, stained for PD-1 and PD-L1 and analyzed by flow cytometry. The percentages and mean fluorescence intensities (MFI) of PD-L1+ and PD-1+ exosome/bead complexes were correlated with the patients’ clinicopathologic data. PD-L1high or PD-L1low exosomes were incubated with activated CD69+ human CD8+ T cells ± PD-1 inhibitor. Changes in CD69 expression levels on T cells were measured. Patients’ plasma was tested for soluble PD-L1 (sPD-L1) by ELISA.

Results: Levels of PD-L1 carried by exosomes correlated with patients’ disease activity, the UICC stage and the lymph node status (P = 0.0008–0.013). In contrast, plasma levels of sPD-L1 or exosome PD-1 levels did not correlate with any clinicopathologic parameters. CD69 expression levels were inhibited (P < 0.03) by coincubation with PD-L1high but not by PD-L1low exosomes. Blocking of PD-L1+ exosome signaling to PD-1+ T cells attenuated immune suppression.

Conclusions: PD-L1 levels on exosomes, but not levels of sPD-L1, associated with disease progression in HNSCC patients. Circulating PD-L1+ exosomes emerge as useful metrics of disease and immune activity in HNSCC patients. Significance: Circulating PD-L1high exosomes in HNC patients’ plasma but not soluble PD-L1 levels associate with disease progression. Clin Cancer Res; 24(4); 896–905. ©2017 AACR.
Serum Leptin, Resistin, and Adiponectin Concentrations in Psoriasis: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Kyriakou Aikaterini , Patsatsi Aikaterini , Sotiriadis Dimitrios , Goulis Dimitrios G.
Published: December 2017

Background: Psoriasis is an immune-mediated, inflammatory disease. Adipokines contribute to the regulation of immune-mediated processes and inflammation. Objective: The aim of our study was to systematically review the literature for studies that have evaluated the circulating concentrations of adipokines in patients with psoriasis and controls and to meta-analyze the best evidence available. Methods: Eligible were studies that have assessed leptin, resistin, or adiponectin concentrations in psoriatic patients and a reference group. The study was conducted in adherence with the PRISMA standards. Results: Psoriatic patients had higher leptin concentrations compared to controls (random effects model, mean difference, MD = 5.64 ng/mL, 95% CI: 3.00-8.29, p < 0.0001). Heterogeneity among studies was high (I2 = 95.9%). Psoriatic patients had higher resistin concentrations compared to controls (MD = 4.66 ng/mL, 95% CI: 2.62-6.69, p < 0.0001). Heterogeneity was high (I2 = 99.2%). Finally, psoriatic patients had lower adiponectin concentrations compared to controls (MD = -1.87 μg/mL, 95% CI: -2.76 to -0.98, p < 0.0001). Heterogeneity was high (I2 = 95.9%). Conclusion: The study supported the hypothesis that leptin and resistin concentrations are higher and adiponectin concentrations are lower in patients with psoriasis compared to controls. Hereby, the suggested pathogenic link between psoriasis and metabolic syndrome/obesity is reinforced and the role of comorbidities in psoriasis is highlighted.
Speech and Language Pathologists’ Voice Use in Working Environments: A Field Study Using Ambulatory Phonation Monitoring
Authors: Mozzanica Francesco , Selvaggio Alessandro , Ginocchio Daniela , Pizzorni Nicole , Scarponi Letizia , Schindler Antonio
Published: December 2017

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the speech and language pathologists’ (SLPs) voice production during a typical working day. Patients and Methods: A total of 28 SLPs, all females, were enrolled. According to the type of treated disease, the cohort of SLPs was divided into 4 groups (7 SLPs focused on the rehabilitation of dysphagic adult clients; 7 SLPs focused on the rehabilitation of deaf children; 7 SLPs focused on the rehabilitation of dysphonic adult clients; and 7 SLPs focused on the rehabilitation of aphasic adult clients). The voice production evaluation was performed using ambulatory phonation monitoring (APM). Results: Significant differences in the APM results were found between the 4 groups of SLPs. In particular, SLPs focusing on the treatment of dysphonic and deaf clients experienced a higher vocal load than SLPs focusing on the treatment of aphasic and dysphagic clients. Conclusion: SLPs may experience heavy vocal loads during working hours. In addition, it seems that some rehabilitation settings could be more vocally demanding than others.
The Laryngeal Mask Airway and Its Use in Neonatal Resuscitation: A Critical Review of Where We Are in 2017/2018
Authors: Bansal Satvik Chaitanya , Caoci Stefano , Dempsey Eugene , Trevisanuto Daniele , Roehr Charles Christoph
Published: December 2017

Studies using videotape recordings and respiratory function monitoring have shown that both face mask (FM) application and endotracheal tube (ETT) placement represent a challenge for resuscitators. Hence, there is a strong need for devices that can largely be used independently of individual operator training levels, in order to ensure more reliable support in time-critical situations, such as neonatal resuscitation. The laryngeal mask airway device (LMA) has evolved as a potentially very valuable tool. We conducted a systematic review of studies evaluating the use of the LMA in neonatal resuscitation. An electronic literature search of large medical databases was performed to identify relevant publications on the use of an LMA during neonatal delivery room (DR) resuscitation. Following a rigorous systematic review, we identified a total of 7 randomized controlled trials with results indicating that initial respiratory management of newborn infants with an LMA is feasible for a defined subgroup of infants, but the evidence is still insufficient to recommend the LMA instead of FM ventilation in the DR. There is, in particular, a dearth of evidence of the use of LMA in neonates born before 34 weeks' gestational age or weighing <1,500 g at birth. There were no reports on significant complications following the use of LMA; however, evidence is still limited regarding short- and long-term outcomes. We conclude that the limited currently available evidence suggests that the use of the LMA is a feasible and safe alternative to mask ventilation of late preterm and term infants in the DR. The potential use of LMA resuscitation, in particular for low-gestation and low-birth-weight infants, needs further study.
Downregulation of Long Noncoding RNA Gas5 Affects Cell Cycle and Insulin Secretion in Mouse Pancreatic β Cells
Authors: Jin Feiyan , Wang Ning , Zhu Yanan , You Lianghui , Wang Lintao , De Wei , Tang Wei
Published: December 2017

Background: Evidence shows that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in individual development, cell differentiation, cell cycle processes and other important life processes and are closely related to major human diseases, including diabetes. Recent studies have reported that lncRNAs are involved in β cell functions and that lncRNA Gas5 levels decreased in T2DM patients’ serum. The purpose of this study was to clarify the role of lncRNA Gas5 in mouse β cell functions in vitro and in vivo. Methods: lncRNA Gas5 expression in T2DM and normal mouse tissues was analyzed using qRT-PCR. RNAi, qRT-PCR, Annexin V-FITC assays, western blot, GSIS and RIA were performed to detect the effects of lncRNA Gas5 on insulin synthesis and secretion in vitro and in vivo. Results: The lncRNA Gas5 level was significantly decreased in db/db mice. However, lncRNA Gas5 expression was relatively high in the pancreas of normal mice. Knockdown of lncRNA Gas5 expression led to cell cycle G1 arrest and impaired insulin synthesis and secretion in Min6 cells. Further, knockdown of lncRNA Gas5 expression in primary isolated islets resulted in decreased expression of insulin gene and transcription factors, Pdx1 and MafA. These results indicate that lncRNA Gas5 might perform as a new regulator, maintaining β cell identity and function by affecting insulin synthesis and secretion.
Association Between Urinary Alpha1-Microglobulin Levels and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Juanwen , Zhang Xuyao , Zhao Ying , Lv Guocai
Published: December 2017

Background: We aimed to explore the association between urinary alpha1-microglobulin (A1M) levels and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a Chinese population. Study: We performed a cross-sectional study among 2,215 Chinese who attended their annual health examination at First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University. Urinary A1M-creatinine ratio and other clinical and laboratory parameters were measured. Results: A total of 20.9% of subjects fulfilled the diagnostic criteria of NAFLD. NAFLD subjects had significantly higher urinary A1M-creatinine ratios. These levels were positively associated with NAFLD prevalence. The association between A1M-creatinine ratio and NAFLD was independent of hyperglycemia status. Stepwise regression showed that urinary A1M-creatinine ratio was significantly associated with the risk for NAFLD. Urinary A1M-creatinine ratio was an independent factor predicting advanced fibrosis (FIB-4 ≥1.3) in NAFLD patients. Conclusions: Our results showed a significant association between urinary A1M-creatinine ratio and NAFLD.
Surgical Management of Deep Brain Stimulator Scalp Erosion without Hardware Removal
Authors: Staudt Michael D. , Pourtaheri Navid , Lakin Gregory E. , Soltanian Hooman T. , Miller Jonathan P.
Published: December 2017

Background: Scalp erosion in patients with deep brain stimulation (DBS) hardware is an uncommon complication that lacks a clearly defined management strategy. Previous studies have described various therapies including conservative treatment with antibiotics and surgical debridement with or without hardware removal. Objectives: The aim of this study was to review the efficacy of a hardware-sparing management strategy for the treatment of scalp erosion. Methods: Five patients with previous DBS implantation presented with scalp erosion and visible hardware exposure at the calvarial burr hole site, and underwent tension-free, vascularized, rotational scalp flap, with preservation of the leads under the pericranium. Two of the procedures were performed after an unsuccessful attempt at primary closure and 3 as a primary procedure. Each patient was followed clinically for at least 14 months postoperatively to evaluate for wound-healing and adverse effects. Results: The median duration from initial DBS hardware implantation to erosion and revision surgery was 12 months (range 1.5-62 months). Three patients were documented to have positive intraoperative cultures in spite of the absence of purulence. At the last follow-up, all patients were noted to have complete wound-healing and no evidence of infection or erosion. Conclusions: DBS scalp erosion can be managed by rotational scalp flap without hardware removal, even in cases where infection is identified.
Evaluation of Direct and Indirect Methods of Sub-Neoglottic Pressure Measurement in Tracheoesophageal Speakers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sheela Shekaraiah , Aithal Venkataraja U. , Rajashekhar Bellur , Lewis Melissa Glenda
Published: December 2017

Objective: Tracheoesophageal (TE) prosthetic voice is one of the voice restoration options for individuals who have undergone a total laryngectomy. Aerodynamic analysis of the TE voice provides insight into the physiological changes that occur at the level of the neoglottis with voice prosthesis in situ. The present study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of sub-neoglottic pressure (SNP) measurement in TE speakers by direct and indirect methods. Patients and Methods: The screening of abstracts and titles was carried out for inclusion of articles using 10 electronic databases spanning the period from 1979 to 2016. Ten articles which met the inclusion criteria were considered for meta-analysis with a pooled age range of 40–83 years. Results: The pooled mean SNP obtained from the direct measurement method was 53.80 cm H2O with a 95% confidence interval of 21.14–86.46 cm H2O, while for the indirect measurement method, the mean SNP was 23.55 cm H2O with a 95% confidence interval of 19.23–27.87 cm H2O. Conclusion: Based on the literature review, the various procedures followed for direct and indirect measurements of SNP contributed to a range of differences in outcome measures. The meta-analysis revealed that the “interpolation method” for indirect estimation of SNP was the most acceptable and valid method in TE speakers.
A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials on the Use of Suction Drains Following Rectal Surgery
Authors: Guerra Francesco , Giuliani Giuseppe , Coletta Diego , Boni Marcello , Rondelli Fabio , Bianchi Paolo Pietro , Coratti Andrea
Published: December 2017

Background: Anastomotic leakage is one of the most feared complications of rectal resections. The role of drains in limiting this occurrence or facilitating its early recognition is still poorly defined. We aimed to study whether the presence of prophylactic pelvic drains affects the surgical outcomes of patients undergoing rectal surgery with extraperitoneal anastomosis. Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials comparing drained with undrained anastomoses following rectal surgery. We evaluated possible differences on the relative incidences of anastomotic leakage, pelvic collection or sepsis, bowel obstruction, reoperation rate, and overall mortality. A meta-analysis of relevant studies was performed with RevMan 5.3. Results: A total of 760 patients from 4 randomized controlled studies were considered eligible for data extraction. The use of drains did not show any advantage in terms of anastomotic leak (OR 0.99), pelvic complications (OR 0.87), reintervention (OR 0.84) and mortality. Contrariwise, the incidence of postoperative bowel obstruction was significantly higher in the drained group (OR 1.61). Conclusions: The routine utilization of pelvic drains does not confer any significant advantage in the prevention of postoperative complications after rectal surgery with extraperitoneal anastomosis. Moreover, a higher risk of postoperative bowel obstruction can be of concern.
Quem tem medo da bancada evangélica? Posições sobre moralidade e política no eleitorado brasileiro, no Congresso Nacional e na Frente Parlamentar Evangélica
Authors: Prandi Reginaldo , Santos Renan William dos
Published: December 2017

Este artigo estuda a influência da filiação religiosa na opinião de eleitores e de seus representantes no Congresso Nacional, compara a opinião dos eleitores classificados segundo a religião declarada e analisa a opinião do conjunto dos congressistas e daqueles pertencentes à chamada bancada evangélica, formada por congressistas evangélicos não pentecostais e pentecostais. Também mostra que a religião influencia pouco a opinião de eleitores e congressistas nos temas de natureza econômica e estrutural e marca mais a opinião em temas do comportamento e moralidade, além de constatar que a bancada evangélica se move ora na direção de seus eleitores, ora na do conjunto dos congressistas, distinguindo-se como grupo sobretudo por sua preocupação com a moral sexual.
Alan Warde. The practice of eating
Authors: Schubert Maycon Noremberg
Published: December 2017

Resenha de The Practice of eating, de Alan Warde
Um rosto na areia: o sujeito em Foucault
Authors: Campos Tamara De Souza , Castro Ronaldo Oliveira de
Published: December 2017

Com base na crítica de Spivak a Foucault, discute-se a questão do sujeito na obra de Foucault, a fim de mostrar sua conexão com a perspectiva estruturalista que visava a superar o primado do sujeito autoconsciente nas Ciências humanas recorrendo a estruturas inconscientes como fundamento da explicação. Sustenta-se que essa perspectiva “antiantropocêntrica” permanece presente na obra do autor no período de Vigiar e punir e A vontade de saber. Por fim, propõe-se que as alterações na abordagem de Foucault no início dos anos de 1980 decorriam de uma tentativa de escapar de impasses que a recusa à perspectiva do sujeito soberano e autoconsciente teria acarretado
Lulism and the Institutionalization of Social Movements in Brazil: Strengthening Democratic Inclusion and Perpetuating Hegemony
Authors: Nogueira Aico Sipriano
Published: December 2017

Este artigo avalia o potencial democratizador da institucionalização dos movimentos sociais no Brasil sob o governo Lula, a fim de avaliar seu impacto na hegemonia política e na inclusão social quando estabelecem vínculos estreitos com o aparelho estatal. Tendo como foco os movimentos sociais rurais e o Programa de Desenvolvimento Sustentável dos Territórios Rurais (Pronat), é demonstrado que a institucionalização de parte significativa dos movimentos rurais faz parte de um fenômeno social conhecido como Lulismo, uma aliança de classes sociais na qual os movimentos sociais desempenharam um papel proeminente, e que permitiu ao governo Lula consolidar seu poder. O argumento central do trabalho é que os movimentos sociais rurais, ao mesmo tempo que converteram suas demandas em políticas públicas, e fortaleceram a participação política, também perpetuaram a hegemonia de classes legitimando a autoridade do governo
Niklas Luhmann. Sistemas sociais: esboço de uma teoria geral
Authors: Klein Stefan
Published: December 2017

Resenha crítica da obra Sistemas sociais: Esboço de uma Teoria Geral, de Niklas Luhmann.
Elites no Reino Unido: novas abordagens para divisões de classe contemporâneas
Authors: Hey Ana Paula , Grimaldi-Christensen Anna , Savage Mike
Published: December 2017

O objetivo do artigo é demonstrar as “novas” elites que emergem no Reino Unido no contexto econômico, político e social do neoliberalismo. Para tal, utilizam-se os amplos trabalhos de Mike Savage acerca do significado do estudo de elites para as formas contemporâneas das divisões sociais. Os dados do Great British Class Survey servem de base para este autor delinear os elementos sociológicos centrais da composição destas elites da financeirização. Descrevem-se as clivagens em termos de mobilidade social, educação, localização e politização geradas pela concentração de distintos tipos de capital (econômico, social e cultural). A partir da especificidade britânica, pretende-se contribuir para o desenvolvimento da sociologia das elites tanto na discussão de novas perspectivas quanto nos limites e possibilidades da abordagem em diferentes contextos geográficos, políticos e sociais
A participação feminina em mercados ilícitos de drogas no Vale do São Francisco, no Nordeste brasileiro
Authors: Fraga Paulo César Pontes , Silva Joyce Keli Do Nascimento
Published: December 2017

O artigo propõe-se a fazer reflexões com base em dados de pesquisas que analisam a participação feminina nos crimes de drogas em cidades do Submédio e Médio São Francisco, no Nordeste brasileiro. Destacamos a análise do relato de vida de seis mulheres que estiveram envolvidas no comércio ilegal de drogas e no plantio de cannabis sativa. O objetivo é contribuir para a discussão teórica sobre as relações existentes entre a condição de gênero e os mecanismos, as práticas e os atores dos mercados ilícitos de drogas na região, bem como analisar dois aspectos relacionados à gestão dos ilegalismos atrelados às drogas em contextos distintos: a qualidade da participação feminina nas atividades de plantio e de tráfico e os efeitos diferenciados produzidos nessas atividades para as mulheres em cidades do sertão baiano e pernambucano.
Historiografía de valores: un debate necesario
Authors: Barros Carlos
Published: December 2017

Los conceptos de passado, presente, futuro o compromiso del historiador han sido fundamentales para entender la revolución historiográfica del siglo XX protagonizada por la historiografía marxista y la escuela de Annales. Se trata ahora de actualizarlos de manera autocrítica, recogiendo las prácticas historiográficas actuales más avanzadas. Proponemos sustituir cualquier “historia militante” de tipo político o religioso por una “historiografía de valores”. La generalización en la sociedad global de los grandes valores sociales, políticos y económicos, y los derechos humanos hace posible una nueva referencia deontológica para el oficio de historiador y la utilidad social de la historia en el siglo XXI.