bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effects of telmisartan and tempol on lipopolysaccharide-induced cognitive impairment, neuroinflammation, and amyloidogenesis: possible role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor
Authors: Khallaf Waleed A.I. , Messiha Basim A.S. , Abo-Youssef Amira M.H. , El-Sayed Nesrine S.
Published: April 2017

Angiotensin II has pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidant potentials. We investigated the possible protective effects of the Angiotensin II receptor blocker telmisartan, compared with the superoxide scavenger tempol, on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cognitive decline and amyloidogenesis. Briefly, mice were allocated into a normal control group, an LPS control group, a tempol treatment group, and 2 telmisartan treatment groups. A behavioral study was conducted followed by a biochemical study via assessment of brain levels of beta amyloid (Aβ) and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) as amyloidogenesis and neuroplasticity markers, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), nitric oxide end products (NOx), neuronal and inducible nitric oxide synthase (nNOS and iNOS) as inflammatory markers, and superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione reduced (GSH), and nitrotyrosine (NT) as oxido-nitrosative stress markers. Finally, histopathological examination of cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum sections was performed using routine and special Congo red stains. Tempol and telmisartan improved cognition, decreased brain Aβ deposition and BDNF depletion, decreased TNF-α, NOx, nNOS, iNOS, MDA, and NT brain levels, and increased brain SOD and GSH contents, parallel to confirmatory histopathological evidences. In conclusion, tempol and telmisartan are promising drugs in managing cognitive impairment and amyloidogenesis, at least via upregulation of BDNF with inhibition of neuroinflammation and oxido-nitrosative stress.
The Henon–Heiles system defined on Lie-algebraically deformed Galilei spacetime
Authors: Daszkiewicz Marcin
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we provide the Henon–Heiles system defined on Lie-algebraically deformed non-relativistic spacetime with the commutator of two spatial directions proportional to time. Particularly, we demonstrate that in such a model the total energy is not conserved and for this reason the role of control parameter is taken by the initial energy value [Formula: see text]. Besides, we show that in contrast with the commutative case, for chosen values of deformation parameter [Formula: see text], there appears chaos in the system for initial total energies [Formula: see text] below the threshold [Formula: see text].
Corresponding state-based correlations for the surface tension of saturated fluids
Authors: Tian Jianxiang , Zheng Mengmeng , Yi Huili , Zhang Laibin , Liu Shuzhen
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we proposed two reduced quantities, based on which we found that the curves of surface tension versus temperature of different saturated fluids can collapse into a single curve. Then a corresponding state-based correlation is proposed and then checked for 66 saturated fluids including simple fluids such as argon, nitrogen, etc., and some refrigerants in the temperature range from the triple point temperature to 0.992 times the critical temperature. By comparing with NIST data, the proposed correlation reproduces NIST data with AAD [Formula: see text] 1% for 21 fluids, AAD [Formula: see text] 2% for 26 fluids, and AAD [Formula: see text] 5% for 46 fluids.
Cascading failures of interdependent networks with different k-core structures
Authors: Dong Zhengcheng , Fang Yanjun , Tian Meng
Published: April 2017

As one of the most common mesoscale structures in real-life networks, k-core hierarchical structure has attracted a lot of attention. Recent research about k-core always focuses on detecting influential nodes determining failure or epidemic propagation. However, few studies have attempted to understand how k-core structural properties can affect dynamic characteristics of network. In this paper, the influences of depth and coupling preferences of k-core on the cascading failures of interdependent scale-free networks are investigated. First, k-core structures of some real-life networks are analyzed, and a scale-free network evolution model with rich and successive k-core layers is proposed. Then, based on a load-based cascading model, the influence of the depth of k-core is investigated with a new evaluation index. In the end, two coupling preferences are analyzed, i.e. random coupling (RC) and assortative coupling (AC). Results show that the lower the depth is, the more robust the interdependent networks will be, and we find AC and RC perform dissimilarly when the capacity varies. Furthermore, all the effects will be affected by the initial load.
Isometries of infinite dimensional Hilbert geometries
Authors: Lemmens Bas , Roelands Mark , Wortel Marten
Published: April 2017

In this paper we extend two classical results concerning the isometries of strictly convex Hilbert geometries, and the characterisation of the isometry groups of Hilbert geometries on finite dimensional simplices, to infinite dimensions. The proofs rely on a mix of geometric and functional analytic methods.
Efficient Assembly for High-Order Unstructured FEM Meshes (FPL 2015)
Authors: Burovskiy Pavel , Grigoras Paul , Sherwin Spencer , Luk Wayne
Published: April 2017

The Finite Element Method (FEM) is a common numerical technique used for solving Partial Differential Equations on large and unstructured domain geometries. Numerical methods for FEM typically use algorithms and data structures which exhibit an unstructured memory access pattern. This makes acceleration of FEM on Field-Programmable Gate Arrays using an efficient, deeply pipelined architecture particularly challenging. In this work, we focus on implementing and optimising a vector assembly operation which, in the context of FEM, induces the unstructured memory access. We propose a dataflow architecture, graph-based theoretical model, and design flow for optimising the assembly operation for spectral/hp finite element method on reconfigurable accelerators. We evaluate the proposed approach on two benchmark meshes and show that the graph-theoretic method of generating a static data access schedule results in a significant improvement in resource utilisation compared to prior work. This enables supporting larger FEM meshes on FPGA than previously possible.
Interactive Relighting in Single Low-Dynamic Range Images
Authors: Wu Jung-Hsuan , Saito Suguru
Published: April 2017

This article addresses the relighting of outdoor and large indoor scenes illuminated by nondistant lights, which has seldom been discussed in previous works. We propose a method for users to interactively edit the illumination of a scene by moving existing lights and inserting synthetic lights into the scene that requires only a small amount of user annotation and a single low-dynamic range (LDR) image. We achieve this by adopting a top-down approach that estimates the scene reflectance by fitting a diffuse illumination model to a photograph. This approach gains stability and robustness by estimating the camera, scene geometry, and light sources in sequence and by using a confidence map, which is a per-pixel weight map. The results of our evaluation demonstrates that the proposed method can estimate a scene accurately enough for realistic relighting of images. Moreover, the experimental results of our user studies show that the synthesized images are so realistic as to be almost indistinguishable from real photographs.
Transient receptor potential ion channel function in sensory transduction and cellular signaling cascades underlying visceral hypersensitivity
Authors: Balemans Dafne , Boeckxstaens Guy E. , Talavera Karel , Wouters Mira M.
Published: April 2017

Visceral hypersensitivity is an important mechanism underlying increased abdominal pain perception in functional gastrointestinal disorders including functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease in remission. Although the exact pathophysiological mechanisms are poorly understood, recent studies described upregulation and altered functions of nociceptors and their signaling pathways in aberrant visceral nociception, in particular the transient receptor potential (TRP) channel family. A variety of TRP channels are present in the gastrointestinal tract (TRPV1, TRPV3, TRPV4, TRPA1, TRPM2, TRPM5, and TRPM8), and modulation of their function by increased activation or sensitization (decreased activation threshold) or altered expression in visceral afferents have been reported in visceral hypersensitivity. TRP channels directly detect or transduce osmotic, mechanical, thermal, and chemosensory stimuli. In addition, pro-inflammatory mediators released in tissue damage or inflammation can activate receptors of the G protein-coupled receptor superfamily leading to TRP channel sensitization and activation, which amplify pain and neurogenic inflammation. In this review, we highlight the present knowledge on the functional roles of neuronal TRP channels in visceral hypersensitivity and discuss the signaling pathways that underlie TRP channel modulation. We propose that a better understanding of TRP channels and their modulators may facilitate the development of more selective and effective therapies to treat visceral hypersensitivity.
Physiology in Medicine: Understanding dynamic alveolar physiology to minimize ventilator-induced lung injury
Authors: Nieman Gary F. , Satalin Josh , Kollisch-Singule Michaela , Andrews Penny , Aiash Hani , Habashi Nader M. , Gatto Louis A.
Published: April 2017

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remains a serious clinical problem with the main treatment being supportive in the form of mechanical ventilation. However, mechanical ventilation can be a double-edged sword: if set improperly, it can exacerbate the tissue damage caused by ARDS; this is known as ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). To minimize VILI, we must understand the pathophysiologic mechanisms of tissue damage at the alveolar level. In this Physiology in Medicine paper, the dynamic physiology of alveolar inflation and deflation during mechanical ventilation will be reviewed. In addition, the pathophysiologic mechanisms of VILI will be reviewed, and this knowledge will be used to suggest an optimal mechanical breath profile (MBP: all airway pressures, volumes, flows, rates, and the duration that they are applied at both inspiration and expiration) necessary to minimize VILI. Our review suggests that the current protective ventilation strategy, known as the “open lung strategy,” would be the optimal lung-protective approach. However, the viscoelastic behavior of dynamic alveolar inflation and deflation has not yet been incorporated into protective mechanical ventilation strategies. Using our knowledge of dynamic alveolar mechanics (i.e., the dynamic change in alveolar and alveolar duct size and shape during tidal ventilation) to modify the MBP so as to minimize VILI will reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with ARDS.
Utility of Immunohistochemistry and ETV6 (12p13) Gene Rearrangement in Identifying Secretory Carcinoma of Salivary Gland among Previously Diagnosed Cases of Acinic Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Naous Rana , Zhang Shengle , Valente Alfredo , Stemmer Melissa , Khurana Kamal K.
Published: April 2017

Objective. Secretory carcinoma is a recently described entity with characteristic immunoprofile and ETV6 (12p13) rearrangement. Before its initial description, it was generally diagnosed as acinic cell carcinoma (ACCi). We evaluated immunoprofile and ETV6 rearrangement in cytological and surgical cases of previously diagnosed ACCi, in an attempt to identify any misclassified SC. Methods. Fifteen cytology and surgical cases of ACCi diagnosed over a 13-year period were retrieved and subjected to immunohistochemistry for S-100, mammaglobin, GATA-3 and DOG-1 as well as FISH for ETV6 (12p13). Results. Of the 8 cytology cases, only 1 was positive for S100, GATA-3, and mammaglobin, and negative for DOG-1. It also demonstrated ETV6 rearrangement and was reclassified as SC. The same immunoprofile was present in 2 of the 13 surgical cases. ETV6 rearrangement characterized by 3′ interstitial deletion was detected in one of these cases and was reclassified as SC. Immunohistochemistry and ETV6 rearrangement were useful in identifying 2 (13.3%) cases misclassified as ACCi. Conclusions. Characteristic immunoprofile and ETV6 gene rearrangement may prove useful in identifying cases of SC. The presence of ETV6 3′ interstitial deletion in one of our cases suggests that there may be additional ETV6 related genetic alterations contributing to the pathogenesis of SC.
Improved Lipid Profile Associated with Daily Consumption of Tri‐Sura‐Phon in Healthy Overweight Volunteers: An Open‐Label, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kuamsub Sirigoon , Singthong Pariyaphat , Chanthasri Wipawee , Chobngam Nicharee , Sangkaew Warissara , Hemdecho Sasithorn , Kaewmanee Thammarat , Chusri Sasitorn
Published: April 2017

Tri‐Sura‐Phon (TSP), a traditional Thai polyherbal formula renowned for its rejuvenating properties, is commonly used as a blood tonic. It comprises Cinnamomum bejolghota, Cinnamomum parthenoxylon, and Aquilaria crassna. The aim of this study is to evaluate the beneficial properties of TSP tea consumption on blood glucose regulation and serum lipid profiles of healthy overweight volunteers. This open‐label, randomized controlled trial was conducted in 70 healthy overweight adults. Two groups of 35 subjects took a TSP infusion or a placebo (cornstarch) twice daily for 8 weeks. The blood glucose regulation, serum lipid profiles, BMI, and liver function tests of the subjects were determined at the baseline, 4th week, and endpoint (8th week). Significant decreases in the average fasting levels of total cholesterol (p = 0.013), triglyceride (p = 0.001), and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL, p = 0.017) were observed in the TSP group at the 8th week compared to those at the baseline. The average HDL level in the TSP group at the beginning of the study was 65.2 mg/dL, and it increased significantly (p = 0.005) to 72.4 mg/dL after 8 weeks of TSP intake. This study showed that the intake of TSP tea as an antioxidant‐rich beverage might be safe and improve lipid profiles in overweight adults.
Identifying APT Malware Domain Based on Mobile DNS Logging
Authors: Niu Weina , Zhang Xiaosong , Yang GuoWu , Zhu Jianan , Ren Zhongwei
Published: April 2017

Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) is a serious threat against sensitive information. Current detection approaches are time‐consuming since they detect APT attack by in‐depth analysis of massive amounts of data after data breaches. Specifically, APT attackers make use of DNS to locate their command and control (C&C) servers and victims’ machines. In this paper, we propose an efficient approach to detect APT malware C&C domain with high accuracy by analyzing DNS logs. We first extract 15 features from DNS logs of mobile devices. According to Alexa ranking and the VirusTotal’s judgement result, we give each domain a score. Then, we select the most normal domains by the score metric. Finally, we utilize our anomaly detection algorithm, called Global Abnormal Forest (GAF), to identify malware C&C domains. We conduct a performance analysis to demonstrate that our approach is more efficient than other existing works in terms of calculation efficiency and recognition accuracy. Compared with Local Outlier Factor (LOF), k‐Nearest Neighbor (KNN), and Isolation Forest (iForest), our approach obtains more than 99% F‐M and R for the detection of C&C domains. Our approach not only can reduce data volume that needs to be recorded and analyzed but also can be applicable to unsupervised learning.
Exploring the Evolution of New Mobile Services
Authors: Chen Yong , Yao Juncheng , Jin Hai , He Chunjiang , Chen Hanhua
Published: April 2017

The emergence and widespread use of mobile Internet technology has led to many different kinds of new mobile communications services, such asWeChat. Users could have more choices when attempting to satisfy their communications needs. The ability to predict the way in which users will use new mobile communications services is extremely valuable to mobile communications service providers. In this work, we propose a method for predicting how a user will use a new mobile service. Our scheme is inspired by the evolutionary game theory. With large-scale real world datasets collected from mobile service providers, we first extract the benefit-related features for users who were starting to use a new mobile service. Then we design our training and prediction methods for predicting potential users. We evaluate our scheme using experiments with large-scale real data. The results show that our approach can predict users’ future behavior with satisfying accuracy.
Deqi Induction by HT7 Acupuncture Alters Theta and Alpha Band Coherence in Human Healthy Subjects
Authors: Lee Go-Eun , Yun Jong-Min , Yang Seung-Bum , Kang Yeonseok , Kang Hyung-Won , Choi Kwang-Ho , Kim Junbeom , Kwon O. Sang , Park Ji-Eun , Kim Jae-Hyo
Published: April 2017

The aim of this preliminary study is to investigate the changes in phase synchronization in the theta and alpha bands before and during the performance of classical acupuncture on the Sinmun (HT7). The electroencephalogram (EEG) signals from nine healthy young subjects were recorded before and during acupuncture in the “closed‐eye” state. The EEG signals were acquired from 19 surface scalp electrodes (FP1, FP2, F7, F3, Fz F4, F8, T3, C3, Cz, C4, T4, T5, P3, Pz, P4, T6, O1, and O2). Needles were inserted into the HT7 bilaterally and were then manipulated to induce deqi and retained for 15 minutes. Phase synchronization was measured by phase coherence. In the theta band, coherence significantly increased between the temporal (T5, T6) and occipital areas (O1, O2) during the acupuncture stimulation. In the alpha band, coherence significantly increased between the left temporal area (T5) and other areas (frontal, parietal, and occipital). Phase coherence in the theta and alpha bands tended to increase during the retention of the acupuncture needles after deqi. Therefore, it can be concluded that acupuncture stimulation with deqi is clinically effective via the central nervous system (CNS).
A Simultaneous Iteration Algorithm for Solving Extended Split Equality Fixed Point Problem
Authors: Li Meixia , Kao Xiping , Che Haitao
Published: April 2017

We study a kind of split equality fixed point problem which is an extension of split equality problem. We propose a kind of simultaneous iterative algorithm with a way of selecting the step length which does not need any a priori information about the operator norms and prove that the sequences generated by the iterative method converge weakly to the solution of this problem. Some numerical results are shown to confirm the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed methods.
Metformin Reduces Prostate Tumor Growth, in a Diet-Dependent Manner, by Modulating Multiple Signaling Pathways
Authors: Sarmento-Cabral André , L-López Fernando , Gahete Manuel D. , Castaño Justo P. , Luque Raúl M.
Published: April 2017

Prostate-cancer is strongly influenced by obesity, wherein metformin could represent a promising treatment; however, the endocrine metabolic/cellular/molecular mechanisms underlying these associations and effects are still unclear. To determine the beneficial antitumoral effects of metformin on prostate cancer progression/aggressiveness and the relative contribution of high-fat diet (HFD; independently of obesity), we used HFD-fed immunosuppressed mice inoculated with PC3 cells (which exhibited partial resistance to diet-induced obesity) compared with low-fat diet (LFD)-fed control mice. Moreover, gene expression analysis was performed on cancer-associated genes in the xenografted tumors, and the antitumorigenic role of metformin on tumoral (PC3/22Rv1/LNCaP) and normal (RWPE1) prostate cells was evaluated. The results demonstrate that HFD is associated with enhanced prostate cancer growth irrespective of body weight gain and endocrine metabolic dysregulations and that metformin can reduce prostate cancer growth under LFD but more prominently under HFD, acting through the modulation of several tumoral-associated processes (e.g., cell cycle, apoptosis, and/or necrosis). Moreover, the actions observed in vivo could be mediated by the modulation of the local expression of GH/IGF1 axis components. Finally, it was demonstrated that metformin had disparate effects on proliferation, migration, and prostate-specific antigen secretion from different cell lines. Altogether, these data reveal that metformin inhibits prostate cancer growth under LFD and, specially, under HFD conditions through multiple metabolic/tumoral signaling pathways.

Implications: The current study linking dietary influence on metformin-regulated signaling pathways and antitumoral response provides new and critical insight on environment–host interactions in cancer and therapy. Mol Cancer Res; 15(7); 862–74. ©2017 AACR.
Lack of STAT6 Attenuates Inflammation and Drives Protection against Early Steps of Colitis-Associated Colon Cancer
Authors: Leon-Cabrera Sonia A. , Molina-Guzman Emmanuel , Delgado-Ramirez Yael G. , Vázquez-Sandoval Armando , Ledesma-Soto Yadira , Pérez-Plasencia Carlos G. , Chirino Yolanda I. , Delgado-Buenrostro Norma L. , Rodríguez-Sosa Miriam , Vaca-Paniagua Felipe , Ávila-Moreno Federico , Gutierrez-Cirlos Emma B. , Arias-Romero Luis E. , Terrazas Luis I.
Published: April 2017

Colitis-associated colon cancer (CAC) is one of the most common malignant neoplasms and a leading cause of death. The immunologic factors associated with CAC development are not completely understood. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) is part of an important signaling pathway for modulating intestinal immune function and homeostasis. However, the role of STAT6 in colon cancer progression is unclear. Following CAC induction in wild-type (WT) and STAT6-deficient mice (STAT6–/–), we found that 70% of STAT6–/– mice were tumor-free after 8 weeks, whereas 100% of WT mice developed tumors. STAT6–/– mice displayed fewer and smaller colorectal tumors than WT mice; this reduced tumorigenicity was associated with decreased proliferation and increased apoptosis in the colonic mucosa in the early steps of tumor progression. STAT6–/– mice also exhibited reduced inflammation, diminished concentrations COX2 and nuclear β-catenin protein in the colon, and decreased mRNA expression of IL17A and TNFα, but increased IL10 expression when compared with WT mice. Impaired mucosal expression of CCL9, CCL25, and CXCR2 was also observed. In addition, the number of circulating CD11b+Ly6ChiCCR2+ monocytes and CD11b+Ly6ClowLy6G+ granulocytes was both decreased in a STAT6-dependent manner. Finally, WT mice receiving a STAT6 inhibitor in vivo confirmed a significant reduction in tumor load as well as less intense signs of CAC. Our results demonstrate that STAT6 is critical in the early steps of CAC development for modulating inflammatory responses and controlling cell recruitment and proliferation. Thus, STAT6 may represent a promising target for CAC treatment. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(5); 385–96. ©2017 AACR.
Anti-KIR4.1 Antibodies in Chinese Patients with Central Nervous System Inflammatory Demyelinating Disorders
Authors: Zhong Rong , Liang Junyan , Tao Ailin , Wu Linzhan , Yang Xinguang , Xu Huiming , Huang Qingmei , Zhuang Shunzhi , Long Youming , Gao Cong
Published: April 2017

Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the frequency of KIR4.1 antibodies in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and in control groups using a cell-based assay. Materials and Methods: A transfected HEK-293A cell line expressing KIR4.1 was established to test for the presence of KIR4.1 antibodies in blood serum. We tested 904 subjects, including 188 patients with MS, 264 patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), 209 patients with other inflammatory neurologic disease (OIND), 203 patients with other noninflammatory neurological disease (OND), and 40 healthy controls. Results: KIR4.1 antibodies were present in 23 of the 188 (12.2%) MS patients, 42 of the 264 (15.9%) NMOSD patients, 32 of the 209 (15.3%) OIND patients, 24 of the 203 (11.8%) OND patients, and 2 of the 40 (5%) healthy controls. There were no significant differences among the MS and control groups (p = 0.279). Conclusions: Anti-KIR4.1 antibody, as determined by a cell-based assay, is not a specific biomarker for MS.
Perception of Japanese Pitch Accent without F0
Authors: Sugiyama Yukiko
Published: April 2017

Phonological contrasts are typically encoded with multiple acoustic correlates to ensure efficient communication. Studies have shown that such phonetic redundancy is found not only in segmental contrasts, but also in suprasegmental contrasts such as tone. In Japanese, fundamental frequency (F0) is the primary cue for pitch accent. However, little is known about its secondary cues. In the present study, a perception experiment was conducted to examine whether any secondary cues exist for Japanese accent. First, minimal pairs of final-accented and unaccented words were identified using a database, resulting in 14 pairs of words. These words were then produced by a native Tokyo Japanese speaker, and presented to participants in both unedited and edited forms. Edited speech stimuli were created by replacing F0 in the natural speech stimuli with white noise. While word identification by Tokyo Japanese speakers had higher accuracy for natural speech than for edited speech, the accuracy exceeded the chance level for edited speech, suggesting the existence of secondary cues for Japanese accent. Acoustic analysis of the stimuli revealed that relative mean amplitude and relative maximum amplitude were greater for final-accented words than for unaccented words.
Single Retinal Layer Evaluation in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes with No or Early Signs of Diabetic Retinopathy: The First Hint of Neurovascular Crosstalk Damage between Neurons and Capillaries?
Authors: Scarinci Fabio , Picconi Fabiana , Virgili Gianni , Giorno Paola , Di Renzo Antonio , Varano Monica , Frontoni Simona , Parravano Mariacristina
Published: April 2017

Purpose: To analyze the retinal-choroidal changes in type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1) patients with no or early signs of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Methods: Seventy-six eyes of 38 DM1 patients and 26 control eyes were included. Nine individual retinal layer thickness measurements were obtained using the spectral domain-optical coherence tomography automated segmentation algorithm. Results: The retinal nerve fiber layer was slightly thinner in all explored quadrants, even if the reduction was not significant in DM1 eyes versus control eyes. The inner nuclear layer (INL) thickness was thicker in all DM1 eyes versus control eyes in all quadrants (p < 0.050). Analyses adjusting for inner retinal thickness in all sectors confirmed INL thickening by about 4%, and also found a significant thinning of the ganglion cell layer (GCL) by about 3.5% in all DM1 subjects versus controls (p < 0.050). Conclusion: DM1 patients with no or early signs of DR present retinal changes particularly at the INL and GCL that might be correlated to initial findings of neurodegeneration.
How Efficient Is Subthalamic Deep Brain Stimulation in Reducing Dyskinesia in Parkinson's Disease?
Authors: Juhász Annamária , Deli Gabriella , Aschermann Zsuzsanna , Janszky József , Harmat Márk , Makkos Attila , Kovács Márton , Komoly Sámuel , Balás István , Dóczi Tamás , Büki András , Kovács Norbert
Published: April 2017

Background: Dyskinesia is among the most troublesome symptoms of advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). The recently developed Unified Dyskinesia Rating Scale (UDysRS) can simultaneously measure several subjective and objective aspects of dyskinesia, irrespective of the other motor symptoms of PD. Despite the advantages of deep brain stimulation (DBS), previous studies on DBS have not used the UDysRS yet. Methods: In this prospective study, 71 consecutive patients undergoing DBS implantation were enrolled. Patients were examined twice: 1 week prior to the DBS implantation (baseline) and 12 months postoperatively. The severity of PD-related symptoms was assessed by the Movement Disorders Society Unified PD Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS). The presence and severity of dyskinesia were specifically measured by the UDysRS and patient diaries. Results: At baseline, all 71 patients had dyskinesia, but 1 year after DBS implantation, 25 patients were dyskinesia-free, and an additional 19 had only mild dyskinesia. The total score on the UDysRS decreased from 38.0 ± 17.8 to 10.8 ± 13.0 (p < 0.001). Besides this, all parts of the UDysRS showed significant improvement after STN DBS treatment, and the magnitude of these changes had a large effect size. The total score of MDS-UPDRS improved from 76.5 ± 24.3 to 60.4 ± 21.4 points (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Based on our results, UDysRS can reliably detect improvements in dyskinesia after DBS implantation.
Public Support for Weight-Related Antidiscrimination Laws and Policies
Authors: Hilbert Anja , Hübner Claudia , Schmutzer Gabriele , Danielsdottir Sigrun , Brähler Elmar , Puhl Rebecca
Published: April 2017

Objective: Weight-related discrimination is prevalent and associated with health impairments for those who are targeted, which underscores the need of antidiscrimination legislation. This study is the first to examine public support of weight-related antidiscrimination laws or policies in Germany, compared to the US and Iceland. Methods: In a representative German population sample (N = 2,513), public support for general and employment-specific weight-related antidiscrimination policies, weight-based victimization, and weight bias internalization were measured through established self-report questionnaires. Results: Half of the German population sample agreed with antidiscrimination policies. General antidiscrimination laws received lower support than employment-specific laws. Support for policies considering obesity a physical disability was greatest in Germany, whereas support for employment-specific antidiscrimination laws was lower in Germany than in the US and Iceland. Total support for weight-related antidiscrimination policies was significantly predicted by lower age, female gender, obese weight status, residence in West Germany, church membership, and readiness to vote in elections. Conclusion: German support for weight-related antidiscrimination policies is moderate. Increasing awareness about weight-related discrimination and laws prohibiting this behavior may help to promote policy acceptance.
Effect of Maternal Obesity on Foetal Growth and Metabolic Health of the Offspring
Authors: Maffeis Claudio , Morandi Anita
Published: April 2017

Maternal and placental conditions that are unfavourable for the embryo/foetus have long-lasting effects on different tissues and functions of the body, which may persist for life and, potentially, also be transmitted to the offspring. This review resumes current evidence on principle maternal and gestational conditions associated with unfavourable metabolic programming of the offspring, along with their mechanisms of action, either supposed or already proved.
End-Tidal CO2 Predicts Reduction in Mitral Regurgitation in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Mitral Valve Edge-to-Edge Repair
Authors: Huntgeburth Michael , Schier Robert , Pfister Roman , ten Freyhaus Henrik , Dahlem Kristina , Friedrichs Kai , Baldus Stephan , Rudolph Volker
Published: April 2017

Objectives: We evaluated end-tidal CO2 (etCO2), which has been proposed to assess acute hemodynamic changes, to guide percutaneous edge-to-edge mitral valve repair (PMVR) with the MitraClip system. Methods: Thirty-nine patients (aged 78 ± 14 years) undergoing PMVR for moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation (MR) of primary and secondary etiology were included. General anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane and constant ventilation parameters to ensure stable etCO2 tension. MR grade was determined semiquantitatively by transesophageal echocardiography by 2 experienced operators blinded to etCO2 measurements. etCO2 levels were measured 3, 5, 10, and 15 min after final MitraClip placement. Results: Overall, etCO2 increased from 32.2 ± 1.7 before to 35.4 ± 3.0, 34.6 ± 2.6, and 34.2 ± 2.4 mm Hg 3, 5, and 10 min after implantation. A significant correlation was noted between the echocardiographic reduction in MR grade and the increase in etCO2. ANOVA for repeated measures confirmed a significant increase in etCO2 after clip implantation (corrected F = 20.0; p < 0.001) and revealed a significantly greater increase in etCO2 in patients with MR reduction ≥2 grades as compared to lesser MR reductions (F = 6.47; p = 0.015). Blood pressure changes did not correlate with the degree of MR reduction. Conclusions: We observed a close correlation between the reduction in MR grade during PMVR and etCO2, which might evolve as a useful parameter to complement treatment guidance during PMVR.
Choroidal Melanoma Mimicker: A Case of Metastatic Clear-Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Komanski Chris B. , Rubino Shaina M. , Meyer Jacob C. , Greven Craig M.
Published: April 2017

Choroidal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy, yet metastatic disease remains the most common malignancy of the eye. Differentiating these entities is essential as treatment, systemic associations, and prognosis vary dramatically between the two. Established diagnostic criteria are accurate for the diagnosis of uveal melanoma. Yet, metastatic disease may be misdiagnosed as a uveal melanoma in rare cases. We report a case of metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma masquerading as uveal melanoma. A 73-year-old Caucasian man with a history of renal cell carcinoma presented with a 15 × 12 × 7 mm homogenous, pigmented, and acoustically hollow mass without hemorrhage or exudation. The patient was initially treated with plaque radiotherapy with good tumor regression. However, the patient developed pain and vision loss due to total exudative retinal detachment. Subsequent enucleation allowed histopathologic confirmation of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. Nine years following enucleation, the patient remains in complete remission without evidence of other systemic metastases. Renal cell carcinoma should be considered when evaluating patients with probable uveal melanoma. Delayed-onset ocular metastasis from renal cell carcinoma exhibits an atypical clinical course with the possibility of durable remission following enucleation.
Esophageal Cancer: New Insights into a Heterogenous Disease
Authors: Krug Sebastian , Michl Patrick
Published: April 2017

Background: Esophageal cancer represents a heterogeneous malignancy mostly diagnosed in advanced stages. Worldwide, squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) continue to be the most prevalent subtype; however, in the Western countries, the incidence of adenocarcinomas is increasing and will exceed that of SCC in the near future. During the last decade, several landmark trials contributed to a better understanding of the disease and emphasized the importance of multimodal treatment protocols. Summary: With the introduction of perioperative or neoadjuvant approaches, the survival of both subtypes of esophageal cancer has significantly improved. Several trials confirmed a survival benefit for perioperative chemotherapy or neoadjuvant chemoradiation, respectively, for patients with resectable locally advanced adenocarcinomas. However, the question of whether perioperative chemotherapy or neoadjuvant chemoradiation is more effective for the long-term survival in this population has yet to be fully elucidated. In SCCs, neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by surgery or definitive chemoradiation in case of functional inoperability represent the preferred treatment options. Compared to neoadjuvant protocols, adjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiation have only minor effects and are associated with enhanced toxicities. Current preclinical and clinical trials investigate efficacy and tolerability of novel drugs aiming to modulate immune check-points and dual inhibition of HER2. In this “to-the-point” article, we review the current standard and summarize the most recent and encouraging therapeutic advances in esophageal cancer. Multimodal treatment approaches for esophageal cancer should be discussed in a multidisciplinary team based on histology, tumor localization, and patient performance status. Neoadjuvant chemoradiation is beneficial for patients with locally advanced SCC and adenocarcinomas of the esophagus and the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ), with perioperative chemotherapy representing a valid alternative for GEJ adenocarcinomas. Combination therapies are indicated for metastatic adenocarcinomas, while the benefit of palliative chemotherapy in SCC remains controversial. Trastuzumab is indicated in HER2+ metastatic adenocarcinomas.
New Concept of X-Ray Repair Cross-Complementing Groups 1 Polymorphisms and Gynecologic Cancer Risk
Authors: Du Yali , Wang Huifang , Lv Bei
Published: April 2017

Background: Several meta-analyses have been conducted to examine the possible link between X-ray repair cross-complementing groups 1 (XRCC1) Arg399Gln polymorphism and cervical cancer risk. However, the results are controversial. Therefore, we carried out a more comprehensive meta-analysis to examine whether XRCC1 polymorphisms are associated with general gynecologic cancer risk. Methods: Twenty studies, comprising 4,230 cases and 5,458 controls that included analyses of XRCC1 polymorphisms (Arg194Trp, Arg280His, or Arg399Gln) were included in our study. Results: Overall, no significant association between any of the studied XRCC1 polymorphisms and gynecologic cancer risk was observed. However, in further stratified analyses, the Arg399Gln was definitely associated with increased gynecologic cancer risk in Asians (A vs. G: OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.02-1.53), which was also associated with increased cervical cancer risk (A vs. G: OR 1.20; 95% CI 1.00-1.44). Similarly, the Arg194Trp was significantly associated with increased gynecologic cancer risk in Asians (TT vs. CC: OR 1.87; 95% CI 1.02-3.42) and endometrial cancer (T vs. C: OR 1.45; 95% CI 1.05-2.02). Conclusions: These findings provided evidence that XRCC1 Arg399Gln and Arg194Trp variants may modify the susceptibility to gynecologic cancers based on ethnicity and type. Further studies with large sample size are warranted to extend our findings.
Epidemiology of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in India: The Great Shift East
Authors: Kedia Saurabh , Ahuja Vineet
Published: April 2017

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), once considered to be a Western disease, is increasingly being reported from India and other Asian countries. The present review summarizes epidemiology and disease characteristics of IBD in India with reference to other Asian countries and the West. Summary: India is projected to have one of the highest disease burden of IBD across the globe. The overall genetic risk and microbial signature in Indian IBD patients are similar to those of patients in the West as demonstrated by the similar incidence of IBD in second-generation Indian immigrants and matching perturbations in the structural and functional component of gut microbiota in Indian studies. The concept of the hygiene hypothesis continues to remain controversial with Indian studies demonstrating contradictory findings. The disease characteristics, long-term outcomes including the risk of colorectal cancer, and the effect of pregnancy on IBD and vice versa in Indian patients with IBD are in general similar with few differences. Unlike patients in the West, very few Indian patients have a positive family history. Key Message: The Indian disease pattern is going through a phase of epidemiological transition with a surge in the incidence of IBD. The epidemiology and disease characteristics of IBD mirror the patterns observed in the West.
Perceived Control and Aging: A Mini-Review and Directions for Future Research
Authors: Robinson Stephanie A. , Lachman Margie E.
Published: April 2017

This brief review on perceived control and aging is organized according to 3 perspectives of research involving description, explanation, and modification. An extensive body of literature has utilized cross-sectional and correlational methods to describe the sociodemographic variations and outcomes associated with perceived control. This work has focused on differences in perceived control as a function of age, sex, education, socioeconomic status, and culture and has identified positive associations with many aging-related outcomes involving health and well-being. With growing evidence regarding the health benefits of perceived control in the context of a declining sense of control with aging, there has been an increased effort to uncover the mechanisms involved, with the hopes of developing methods to maintain and/or promote adaptive control beliefs throughout adulthood. Through longitudinal and experimental work, researchers are beginning to clarify the directionality and elucidate the mechanisms to explain the associations. Recent evidence from longitudinal studies shows that control beliefs have an impact on subsequent changes in health. Yet, the findings suggest that it is not a unidirectional relationship. A conceptual model suggesting an ongoing reciprocal relationship between perceived control and health and well-being is discussed. Research examining the mechanisms that link perceived control to aging-related outcomes can help to inform and to develop effective interventions that are tailored to the individual's specific barriers and goals. We consider new directions for research, including more attention to intraindividual variability and reactivity to daily challenges, such as stress, with the goal of advancing our understanding of how perceived control contributes to aging-related outcomes. More work is needed to develop strategies to enhance control beliefs in later life. Although it will not always be possible to modify control beliefs, researchers can take these beliefs into account when developing interventions. A personalized approach is recommended as a way to tailor interventions that are compatible with individuals' beliefs about control to facilitate adaptive behavior change. Conclusions focus on selected issues and considerations for future research.
A Clinical and Radiological Approach to the Management of Benign Mesenchymal Sinonasal Tumors
Authors: Anschuetz Lukas , Buchwalder Melanie , Dettmer Matthias , Caversaccio Marco D. , Wagner Franca
Published: April 2017

Purpose: Benign mesenchymal sinonasal neoplasms (BMSN) are rare and histologically heterogeneous. Differential diagnosis, appropriate management, and outcome are still a matter of debate. The aim of this study is to provide evidence for further refinement of assessment and treatment in the future. Procedures: We retrospectively reviewed data on 93 patients with neuroradiologically verified BMSN treated at our university reference center during the past 22 years. Results: The most frequent BMSN recorded in our cohort was osteoma of the frontal sinus. Only one-third of the patients affected were symptomatic at initial presentation. The 2 other common fibro-osseous tumor entities, fibrous dysplasia and ossifying fibroma, were confirmed in 12 and 6 patients, respectively. Patients with soft tissue tumor entities such as hemangioma, glomangiopericytoma, angiofibroma, and hamartoma were all symptomatic and underwent surgical resection. Conclusion: Understanding and recognizing the spectrum of appearances of benign mesenchymal sinonasal tumors will improve patient assessment and clinical management. The pathognomonic neuroradiological signs of a particular tumor entity should be actively sought as the neuroradiological features may be the diagnostic clues. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging play complementary roles in identifying the morphological details and locoregional staging of benign mesenchymal sinonasal tumors.
Successful Treatment of Primary Cutaneous Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma Presenting Acquired Ichthyosis with Oral Bexarotene Monotherapy
Authors: Tanita Kayo , Fujimura Taku , Sato Yota , Hidaka Takanori , Furudate Sadanori , Kambayashi Yumi , Tsukada Akira , Hashimoto Akira , Aiba Setsuya
Published: April 2017

Acquired ichthyosis (AI) is a reactive cutaneous manifestation that can be associated with malignant hematological disease, including cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Since it is difficult to distinguish AI from ichthyosiform mycosis fungoides, to select the treatment for CTCL with ichthyosis-like appearance and to evaluate its efficacy is sometimes challenging. In this report, we describe a case of primary cutaneous peripheral T-cell lymphoma not otherwise specified presenting AI successfully treated with oral bexarotene. In the present case, the administration of oral bexarotene was not only effective for lymphoma cells infiltrating ulcers and nodules, but it also eliminated AI.
Complete Genome Sequence of Proteus mirabilis Phage pPM_01 Isolated from Raw Sewage
Authors: Wirjon Ira Aryani , Lau Nyok-Sean , Arip Yahya Mat
Published: April 2017

Objectives: Phage pPM_01 was previously isolated from a raw sewage treatment facility located in Batu Maung, Penang, Malaysia, and it was highly lytic against Proteus mirabilis, which causes urinary tract infections in humans. In this paper, we characterize the biology and complete genome sequence of the phage. Methods and Results: Transmission electron microscopy revealed phage pPM_01 to be a siphovirus (the first reported virus to infect P. mirabilis), with its complete genome sequence successfully determined. The genome was sequenced using Illumina technology and the reads obtained were assembled using CLC Genomic Workbench v.7.0.3. The whole genome contains a total of 58,546 bp of linear double-stranded DNA with a G+C content of 46.9%. Seventy putative genes were identified and annotated using various bioinformatics tools including RAST, Geneious v.R7, National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) BLAST, and tRNAscan-SE-v1.3 Search. Functional clusters of related potential genes were defined (structural, lytic, packaging, replication, modification, and modulatory). The whole genome sequence showed a low similarity to known phages (i.e., Enterobacter phage Enc34 and Enterobacteria phage Chi). Host range determination and SDS-PAGE analysis were also performed. Conclusions: The inability to lysogenize a host, the absence of endotoxin genes in the annotated genome, and the lytic behavior suggest phage pPM_01 as a possible safe biological candidate to control P. mirabilis infection.
Comparative Diagnostic Accuracy of the ACE-III, MIS, MMSE, MoCA, and RUDAS for Screening of Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Matías-Guiu Jordi A. , Valles-Salgado María , Rognoni Teresa , Hamre-Gil Frank , Moreno-Ramos Teresa , Matías-Guiu Jorge
Published: April 2017

Background: Our aim was to evaluate and compare the diagnostic properties of 5 screening tests for the diagnosis of mild Alzheimer disease (AD). Methods: We conducted a prospective and cross-sectional study of 92 patients with mild AD and of 68 healthy controls from our Department of Neurology. The diagnostic properties of the following tests were compared: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination III (ACE-III), Memory Impairment Screen (MIS), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS). Results: All tests yielded high diagnostic accuracy, with the ACE-III achieving the best diagnostic properties. The area under the curve was 0.897 for the ACE-III, 0.889 for the RUDAS, 0.874 for the MMSE, 0.866 for the MIS, and 0.856 for the MoCA. The Mini-ACE score from the ACE-III showed the highest diagnostic capacity (area under the curve 0.939). Memory scores of the ACE-III and of the RUDAS showed a better diagnostic accuracy than those of the MMSE and of the MoCA. All tests, especially the ACE-III, conveyed a higher diagnostic accuracy in patients with full primary education than in the less educated group. Implementing normative data improved the diagnostic accuracy of the ACE-III but not that of the other tests. Conclusions: The ACE-III achieved the highest diagnostic accuracy. This better discrimination was more evident in the more educated group.