bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Redundancy in Anaerobic Digestion Microbiomes during Disturbances by the Antibiotic Monensin
Authors: Spirito Catherine M. , Daly Sarah E. , Werner Jeffrey J. , Angenent Largus T.
Published: March 2018

The antibiotic monensin is fed to dairy cows to increase milk production efficiency. A fraction of this monensin is excreted into the cow manure. Previous studies have found that cow manure containing monensin can negatively impact the performance of anaerobic digesters, especially upon first introduction. Few studies have examined whether the anaerobic digester microbiome can adapt to monensin during the operating time. Here, we conducted a long-term time series study of four lab-scale anaerobic digesters fed with cow manure. We examined changes in both the microbiome composition and function of the anaerobic digesters when subjected to the dairy antibiotic monensin. In our digesters, monensin was not rapidly degraded under anaerobic conditions. The two anaerobic digesters that were subjected to manure from monensin feed-dosed cows exhibited relatively small changes in microbiome composition and function due to relatively low monensin concentrations. At higher concentrations of monensin, which we dosed directly to control manure (from dairy cows without monensin), we observed major changes in the microbiome composition and function of two anaerobic digesters. A rapid introduction of monensin to one of these anaerobic digesters led to the impairment of methane production. Conversely, more gradual additions of the same concentrations of monensin to the other anaerobic digester led to the adaptation of the anaerobic digester microbiomes to the relatively high monensin concentrations. A member of the candidate OP11 (
Microgenomates
) phylum arose in this anaerobic digester and appeared to be redundant with certain
Bacteroidetes
phylum members, which previously were dominating.

IMPORTANCE
Monensin is a common antibiotic given to dairy cows in the United States and is partly excreted with dairy manure. An improved understanding of how monensin affects the anaerobic digester microbiome composition and function is important to prevent process failure for farm-based anaerobic digesters. This time series study demonstrates how anaerobic digester microbiomes are inert to low monensin concentrations and can adapt to relatively high monensin concentrations by redundancy in an already existing population. Therefore, our work provides further insight into the importance of microbiome redundancy in maintaining the stability of anaerobic digesters.
Protocol for a feasibility trial for improving breast feeding initiation and continuation: assets-based infant feeding help before and after birth (ABA)
Authors: Jolly Kate , Ingram Jenny , Clarke Joanne , Johnson Debbie , Trickey Heather , Thomson Gill , Dombrowski Stephan U , Sitch Alice , Dykes Fiona , Feltham Max G , Darwent Kirsty , MacArthur Christine , Roberts Tracy , Hoddinott Pat
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Breast feeding improves the health of mothers and infants; the UK has low rates, with marked socioeconomic inequalities. While trials of peer support services have been effective in some settings, UK trials have not improved breast feeding rates. Qualitative research suggests that many women are alienated by the focus on breast feeding. We propose a change from breast feeding-focused interactions to respecting a woman’s feeding choices, inclusion of behaviour change theory and an increased intensity of contacts in the 2 weeks after birth when many women cease to breast feed. This will take place alongside an assets-based approach that focuses on the positive capability of individuals, their social networks and communities.

We propose a feasibility study for a multicentre randomised controlled trial of the Assets feeding help Before and After birth (ABA) infant feeding service versus usual care.

Methods and analysis

A two-arm, non-blinded randomised feasibility study will be conducted in two UK localities. Women expecting their first baby will be eligible, regardless of feeding intention. The ABA infant feeding intervention will apply a proactive, assets-based, woman-centred, non-judgemental approach, delivered antenatally and postnatally tailored through face-to-face contacts, telephone and SMS texts. Outcomes will test the feasibility of delivering the intervention with recommended intensity and duration to disadvantaged women; acceptability to women, feeding helpers and professionals; and feasibility of a future randomised controlled trial (RCT), detailing recruitment rates, willingness to be randomised, follow-up rates at 3 days, 8 weeks and 6 months, and level of outcome completion. Outcomes of the proposed full trial will also be collected. Mixed methods will include qualitative interviews with women/partners, feeding helpers and health service staff; feeding helper logs; and review of audio-recorded helper–women interactions to assess intervention fidelity.

Ethics and dissemination

Study results will inform the design of a larger multicentre RCT. The National Research Ethics Service Committee approved the study protocol.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN14760978; Pre-results.
Does tranexamic acid lead to changes in MRI measures of brain tissue health in patients with spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage? Protocol for a MRI substudy nested within the double-blind randomised controlled TICH-2 trial
Authors: Dineen Rob A , Pszczolkowski Stefan , Flaherty Katie , Law Zhe K , Morgan Paul S , Roberts Ian , Werring David J , Salman Rustam Al-Shahi , England Tim , Bath Philip M , Sprigg Nikola
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To test whether administration of the antifibrinolytic drug tranexamic acid (TXA) in patients with spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage (SICH) leads to increased prevalence of diffusion-weighted MRI-defined hyperintense ischaemic lesions (primary hypothesis) or reduced perihaematomal oedema volume, perihaematomal diffusion restriction and residual MRI-defined SICH-related tissue damage (secondary hypotheses).

Design

MRI substudy nested within the double-blind randomised controlled Tranexamic Acid for Hyperacute Primary Intracerebral Haemorrhage (TICH)-2 trial (ISRCTN93732214).

Setting

International multicentre hospital-based study.

Participants

Eligible adults consented and randomised in the TICH-2 trial who were also able to undergo MRI scanning. To address the primary hypothesis, a sample size of n=280 will allow detection of a 10% relative increase in prevalence of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) hyperintense lesions in the TXA group with 5% significance, 80% power and 5% imaging data rejection.

Interventions

TICH-2 MRI substudy participants will undergo MRI scanning using a standardised protocol at day ~5 and day ~90 after randomisation. Clinical assessments, randomisation to TXA or placebo and participant follow-up will be performed as per the TICH-2 trial protocol.

Conclusion

The TICH-2 MRI substudy will test whether TXA increases the incidence of new DWI-defined ischaemic lesions or reduces perihaematomal oedema or final ICH lesion volume in the context of SICH.

Ethics and dissemination

The TICH-2 trial obtained ethical approval from East Midlands - Nottingham 2 Research Ethics Committee (12/EM/0369) and an amendment to allow the TICH-2 MRI sub study was approved in April 2015 (amendment number SA02/15). All findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals. The primary outcome results will also be presented at a relevant scientific meeting.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN93732214; Pre-results.
Management of twins in horses
Authors: Crabtree James R.
Published: March 2018

Twin pregnancy is a commonly encountered condition in equine reproductive practice which can have devastating effects for the client in respect to the health and future fertility of their mare as well as significant financial implications. In well‐managed situations, twins can be dealt with relatively easily and effectively during early pregnancy. However, due to the nature of clinical practice and the differing stages at which a mare may be presented for examination, the management of twins can be difficult. Complicating factors include twins of differing ages (asynchronous twins), adjacent twins (unilateral), which can be difficult to identify as two separate entities, and the presence of one or multiple endometrial cysts. This article reviews the options available in the management of twins and the likely expected success rate.
Modification of the nuclear landscape in the inverse problem framework using the generalized Bethe–Weizsäcker mass formula
Authors: Mavrodiev S. Cht. , Deliyergiyev M. A.
Published: March 2018

We formalized the nuclear mass problem in the inverse problem framework. This approach allows us to infer the underlying model parameters from experimental observation, rather than to predict the observations from the model parameters. The inverse problem was formulated for the numerically generalized semi-empirical mass formula of Bethe and von Weizsäcker. It was solved in a step-by-step way based on the AME2012 nuclear database. The established parametrization describes the measured nuclear masses of 2564 isotopes with a maximum deviation less than 2.6[Formula: see text]MeV, starting from the number of protons and number of neutrons equal to 1.

The explicit form of unknown functions in the generalized mass formula was discovered in a step-by-step way using the modified least [Formula: see text] procedure, that realized in the algorithms which were developed by Lubomir Aleksandrov to solve the nonlinear systems of equations via the Gauss–Newton method, lets us to choose the better one between two functions with same [Formula: see text]. In the obtained generalized model, the corrections to the binding energy depend on nine proton (2, 8, 14, 20, 28, 50, 82, 108, 124) and ten neutron (2, 8, 14, 20, 28, 50, 82, 124, 152, 202) magic numbers as well on the asymptotic boundaries of their influence. The obtained results were compared with the predictions of other models.
Professor David Gwyn Roberts – a Life in Geoscience
Authors: Gerdes Keith D.
Published: March 2018

This conference was held to celebrate the outstanding career of a remarkable man. Professor David Gwyn Roberts was one of the most creative, productive and influential geoscientists of his generation. The range of his achievements and the scope of his influence on the world of geoscience are remarkable. He had a profound impact on geological thinking and understanding that serves as his lasting legacy. His Life in Geoscience commenced as a marine geoscientist at the Institute of Oceanographic Sciences, where he rapidly developed a global reputation for innovative research; this was followed by a highly influential spell as an explorer, technical expert and mentor in BP, and culminated in a successful career as a globally respected consultant, professor, teacher and author. He also edited numerous journals, founded the publication
Marine and Petroleum Geology
and held high office in a number of professional organizations. Through his lectures, workshops and courses he served as an inspiration to hundreds of geoscientists around the world. Any phase of his career would identify David Gwyn Roberts as an outstanding geoscientist. The fact that these achievements were the work of one man mark Professor Roberts's life and contribution to the geosciences as truly remarkable.
Information Transmission Probability and Cache Management Method in Opportunistic Networks
Authors: Wu Jia , Chen Zhigang , Zhao Ming
Published: March 2018

In real network environment, nodes may acquire the communication destination during data transmission and find a suitable neighbor node to perform effective data classification transmission. This is similar to finding certain transmission targets during data transmission with mobile devices. However, the node cache space in networks is limited, and waiting for the destination node can also cause end‐to‐end delay. To improve the transmission environment, this study established Data Transmission Probability and Cache Management method. According to selection of high meeting probability node, cache space is reconstructed by node. It is good for nodes to improve delivery ratio and reduce delay. Through experiments and the comparison of opportunistic network algorithms, this method improves the cache utilization rate of nodes, reduces data transmission delay, and improves the overall network efficiency.
N-Cadherin Upregulation Promotes the Neurogenic Differentiation of Menstrual Blood-Derived Endometrial Stem Cells
Authors: Liu Yanli , Yang Fen , Liang Shengying , Liu Qing , Fu Sulei , Wang Zhenyu , Yang Ciqing , Lin Juntang
Published: March 2018

Peripheral nerve injuries are typically caused by either trauma or medical disorders, and recently, stem cell-based therapies have provided a promising treatment approach. Menstrual blood-derived endometrial stem cells (MenSCs) are considered an ideal therapeutic option for peripheral nerve repair due to a noninvasive collection procedure and their high proliferation rate and immunological tolerance. Here, we successfully isolated MenSCs and examined their biological characteristics including their morphology, multipotency, and immunophenotype. Subsequent in vitro studies demonstrated that MenSCs express high levels of neurotrophic factors, such as NT3, NT4, BDNF, and NGF, and are capable of transdifferentiating into glial-like cells under conventional induction conditions. Moreover, upregulation of N-cadherin (N-cad) mRNA and protein expression was observed after neurogenic differentiation. In vivo studies clearly showed that N-cad knockdown via in utero electroporation perturbed the migration and maturation of mouse neural precursor cells (NPCs). Finally, a further transfection assay also confirmed that N-cad upregulation in MenSCs results in the expression of S100. Collectively, our results confirmed the paracrine effect of MenSCs on neuroprotection as well as their potential for transdifferentiation into glial-like cells and demonstrated that N-cad upregulation promotes the neurogenic differentiation of MenSCs, thereby providing support for transgenic MenSC-based therapy for peripheral nerve injury.
A Bimodel Algorithm with Data-Divider to Predict Stock Index
Authors: Wang Zhaoyue , Hu Jinsong , Wu Yongjie
Published: March 2018

There is not yet reliable software for stock prediction, because most experts of this area have been trying to predict an exact stock index. Considering that the fluctuation of a stock index usually is no more than 1% in a day, the error between the forecasted and the actual values should be no more than 0.5%. It is too difficult to realize. However, forecasting whether a stock index will rise or fall does not need to be so exact a numerical value. A few scholars noted the fact, but their systems do not yet work very well because different periods of a stock have different inherent laws. So, we should not depend on a single model or a set of parameters to solve the problem. In this paper, we developed a data-divider to divide a set of historical stock data into two parts according to rising period and falling period, training, respectively, two neural networks optimized by a GA. Above all, the data-divider enables us to avoid the most difficult problem, the effect of unexpected news, which could hardly be predicted. Experiments show that the accuracy of our method increases 20% compared to those of traditional methods.
An Eco-Driving Advisory System for Continuous Signalized Intersections by Vehicular Ad Hoc Network
Authors: Lee Wei-Hsun , Li Jiang-Yi
Published: March 2018

With the vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) technology which support vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle to road side unit (V2R/R2V) communications, vehicles can preview the intersection signal plan such as signal countdown message. In this paper, an ecodriving advisory system (EDAS) is proposed to reduce CO2 emissions and energy consumption by letting the vehicle continuously pass through multiple intersections with the minimum possibilities of stops. We extend the isolated intersection model to multiple continuous intersections scenario. A hybrid method combining three strategies including maximized throughput model (MTM), smooth speed model (SSM), and minimized acceleration and deceleration (MinADM) is designed, and it is compared with related works maximized throughput model (MaxTM), open traffic light control model (OTLCM), and predictive cruise control (PCC) models. Some issues for the practical application including safe car following, queue clearing, and gliding mode are discussed and conquered. Simulation results show that the proposed model outperforms OTLCM 25.1%~81.2% in the isolated intersection scenario for the CO2 emissions and 20.5%~84.3% in averaged travel time. It also performs better than the compared PCC model in CO2 emissions (19.9%~31.2%) as well as travel time (24.5%~35.9%) in the multiple intersections scenario.
A Reconfigurable Buck, Boost, and Buck-Boost Converter: Unified Model and Robust Controller
Authors: Licea Martín Antonio Rodríguez , Pinal Francisco Javier Perez , Gutiérrez Alejandro Israel Barranco , Ramírez Carlos Alonso Herrera , Perez Jose Cruz Nuñez
Published: March 2018

The need for reconfigurable, high power density, and low-cost configurations of DC-DC power electronic converters (PEC) in areas such as the transport electrification and the use of renewable energy has spread out the requirement to incorporate in a single circuit several topologies, which generally result in an increment of complexity about the modeling, control, and stability analyses. In this paper, a reconfigurable topology is presented which can be applied in alterative/changing power conversion scenarios and consists of a reconfigurable Buck, Boost, and Buck-Boost DC-DC converter (RBBC). A unified averaged model of the RBBC is obtained, a robust controller is designed through a polytopic representation, and a Lyapunov based switched stability analysis of the closed-loop system is presented. The reported RBBC provides a wide range of voltage operation, theoretically from -∞ to ∞ volts with a single power source. Robust stability, even under arbitrarily fast (bounded) parameter variations and reconfiguration changes, is reported including numerical and experimental results. The main advantages of the converter and the robust controller proposed are simple design, robustness against abrupt changes in the parameters, and low cost.
Research on Influential Factors of PM2.5 within the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region in China
Authors: Li Jinchao , Chen Lin , Xiang Yuwei , Xu Ming
Published: March 2018

Air pollutant emissions are problematic hazards in China, especially in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. In this paper, we use fishbone method to set up the influential factor set of PM2.5 qualitatively. Then we use Spearman rank correlation test and panel data regression model to analyze the data of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region from 2012 to 2015 quantitatively. The results show that population density, energy consumption per unit area, concrete production per unit area, industrial proportion, transportation volume per unit area, new construction areas per unit area, road construction length per unit area, and coal consumption proportion are all positively correlated with PM2.5. The proportion of electricity consumption is negatively correlated with PM2.5. Among them, population density, industrial proportion, transportation volume, energy consumption per unit area, and the proportion of electricity consumption have a pivotal influence on PM2.5. At last, we give some suggestions to solve the hazard of PM2.5 in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region.
Favorable Effect of Anti-TNF Therapy on Insulin Sensitivity in Nonobese, Nondiabetic Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Paschou Stavroula A. , Kothonas Fotios , Lafkas Apostolos , Myroforidis Alexandros , Loi Vasiliki , Terzi Thomais , Karagianni Olympia , Poulou Androniki , Goumas Konstantinos , Vryonidou Andromachi
Published: March 2018

Background. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of anti-TNF therapy on glucose and lipid metabolism in nondiabetic, nonobese patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients and Methods. We studied 44 patients with IBD, without a known history of diabetes. Three of the patients were diagnosed with overt diabetes and were excluded. Eighteen of the remaining patients (9 M/9 F, 33.6 ± 8.8 years) were on anti-TNF therapy for longer than 1 year, while 23 patients (16 M/7 F, 38.7 ± 12.5 years) were treated with aminosalicylates (AMSs). Twelve of the patients from the second group were then treated with anti-TNF and reassessed 6 months later. Fasting glucose, insulin, c-peptide, HbA1c, lipid, CRP, and fibrinogen levels were determined, and HOMA-IR index was calculated in all patients. Results. Patients from the two therapy groups were matched for age and BMI and were not obese. We did not find any differences between patients from the two therapy groups regarding fasting glucose, c-peptide, HbA1c, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides, CRP, and HOMA-IR index. In patients who were treated for 6 months with anti-TNF, a statistically significant decrease in insulin (before 15.5 ± 5.9 versus after 9.9 ± 2.9 μIU/ml, p=0.042) and c-peptide (before 2.4 ± 1 versus after 1.3 ± 0.4 ng/ml, p=0.030) levels as well as the HOMA-IR index (before 4.2 ± 1.9 versus after 2.2 ± 0.9, p=0.045) was observed, without any changes in weight, BMI, glucose, HbA1c, lipid, CRP, and fibrinogen levels. Conclusion. Anti-TNF therapy exerts a favorable effect on insulin sensitivity, while it has no effect on lipid levels in nondiabetic, nonobese patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
Antifungal Compound Isolated fromCatharanthus roseusL. (Pink) for Biological Control of Root Rot Rubber Diseases
Authors: Zahari R. , Halimoon N. , Ahmad M. F. , Ling S. K.
Published: March 2018

Rigidoporus microporus, Ganoderma philippii,andPhellinus noxiusare root rot rubber diseases and these fungi should be kept under control with environmentally safe compounds from the plant sources. Thus, an antifungal compound isolated fromCatharanthus roseuswas screened for its effectiveness in controlling the growth of these fungi. The antifungal compound isolated fromC. roseusextract was determined through thin layer chromatography (TLC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis. EachC. roseusof the DCM extracts was marked as CRD1, CRD2, CRD3, CRD4, CRD5, CRD6, and CRD7, respectively. TLC results showed that all of theC. roseusextracts peaked with red colour at Rf = 0.61 at 366 nm wavelength, except for CRD7. The CRD4 extract was found to be the most effective againstR. microporusandG. philippiiwith inhibition zones of 3.5 and 1.9 mm, respectively, compared to that of other extracts. These extracts, however, were not effective againstP. noxius.The CRD4 extract contained ursolic acid that was detected by NMR analysis and the compound could be developed as a biocontrol agent for controllingR. microporusandG. philippii.Moreover, little or no research has been done to study the effectiveness ofC. roseusin controlling these fungi.
S-Equol, a Major Isoflavone from Soybean, Inhibits Nitric Oxide Production in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Rat Astrocytes Partially via the GPR30-Mediated Pathway
Authors: Moriyama Mitsuaki , Hashimoto Ayano , Satoh Hideyo , Kawabe Kenji , Ogawa Mizue , Takano Katsura , Nakamura Yoichi
Published: March 2018

Cumulative evidence indicates that estrogen receptor (ER) agonists attenuate neuroinflammation. Equol, a major isoflavone from soybean, exhibits estrogen-like biological activity, but their effect on inflammatory response has not been well established. Here, we investigated the effect of S-equol on nitric oxide (NO) production, well-known inflammatory change in astrocytes stimulated by LPS. S-Equol attenuated LPS-induced NO production with a concomitant decrease in expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS). S-Equol did not affect LPS-induced increase in intracellular ROS production. Intracellular ER blocker ICI 182.780 had no effect on S-equol-induced decrease in NO production. Addition of G-15, antagonist of G protein-coupled receptor 30 which is nongenomic ER and located on cell surface, partially recovered S-equol-induced attenuation of NO production. These findings suggest that attenuation of NO production by S-equol may mitigate LPS-induced neuroinflammation in astrocytes. S-Equol may exert a glioprotective effect, at least in part, via a nongenomic effect.
Study of the Effect of Fibre Orientation on Artificially Directed Steel Fibre‐Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Li Fang-Yuan , Li Liu-Yang , Dang Yan , Wu Pei-Feng
Published: March 2018

The fibre utilization efficiency of directionally distributed fibre‐reinforced concrete is better than that of randomly distributed fibre. However, controlling the fibre direction is difficult, which limits its applications. In this paper, a method in which fibres were artificially directed was used to simulate the feasibility of orienting fibres during 3D concrete printing. Based on artificially directed steel fibre‐reinforced concrete specimens, the orientation characteristics of directional fibre‐reinforced concrete specimens were studied. The differences between the gravity and the boundary effects in ordinary fibre‐reinforced concrete and artificially directed fibre‐reinforced concrete were compared. The average orientation coefficient in randomly distributed fibre‐reinforced concrete was 0.59, whereas this value in directionally distributed fibre‐reinforced concrete was over 0.9. This result demonstrated the feasibility of manually orienting the fibres in steel fibre‐reinforced concrete in layer‐by‐layer casting.
Pancreatic Hydatid Cyst Causing Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Alsaid Bayan , Alhimyar Maryam , Rayya Fadi
Published: March 2018

Hydatidosis is a public health problem in endemic countries. Hydatid cysts are located usually in the liver and the lungs. Primary pancreatic hydatid cyst is in unusual location and rarely causes acute pancreatitis. In this paper, we report a case of a 34-year-old man who admitted with recurrent acute pancreatitis. Following the preoperation investigations, the primary impression was a pancreatic pseudocyst. During surgery, a primary hydatid cyst was detected in the pancreas measuring 35 × 20 × 15 cm. The treatment consisted of evacuation and external draining of the cyst. In addition, we summarized 14 cases of primary hydatid cyst of the pancreas associated with acute pancreatitis reported in the literature.
The NCX1/TRPC6 Complex Mediates TGFβ-Driven Migration and Invasion of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Xu Jingyu , Yang Yuan , Xie Rui , Liu Jilong , Nie Xubiao , An Jiaxing , Wen Guorong , Liu Xuemei , Jin Hai , Tuo Biguang
Published: March 2018

TGFβ plays an important role in the progression and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), yet the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this role are not completely understood. In this study, we investigated the roles of Na+/Ca2+ exchanger 1 (NCX1) and canonical transient receptor potential channel 6 (TRPC6) in regulating TGFβ in human HCC. In HepG2 and Huh7 cells, TGFβ-stimulated intracellular Ca2+ increases through NCX1 and TRPC6 and induced the formation of a TRPC6/NCX1 molecular complex. This complex-mediated Ca2+ signaling regulated the effect of TGFβ on the migration, invasion, and intrahepatic metastasis of human HCC cells in nude mice. TGFβ upregulated TRPC6 and NCX1 expression, and there was a positive feedback between TRPC6/NCX1 signaling and Smad signaling. Expression of both TRPC6 and NCX1 were markedly increased in native human HCC tissues, and their expression levels positively correlated with advancement of HCC in patients. These data reveal the role of the TRPC6/NCX1 molecular complex in HCC and in regulating TGFβ signaling, and they implicate TRPC6 and NCX1 as potential targets for therapy in HCC.

Significance: TGFβ induces the formation and activation of a TRPC6/NCX1 molecular complex, which mediates the effects of TGFβ on the migration, invasion, and intrahepatic metastasis of HCC. Cancer Res; 78(10); 2564–76. ©2018 AACR.
Phthalate Metabolites and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Reeves KW , Diaz Santana M , Hankinson SE , Bigelow C , Zoeller RT , Manson J , Spiegelman D , Tinker L
Published: March 2018

Mounting laboratory and animal model evidence supports the potentially carcinogenic effects of phthalates, chemicals used as plasticizers in a wide variety of consumer products (e.g., cosmetics, medications, vinyl flooring). Phthalate metabolites (PMs) are measurable in nearly 100% of the U.S. population, though levels vary widely, and also have been reported in human breast milk. However, prospective data on whether phthalates affect human breast cancer risk is lacking. Methods We conducted a nested case-control study within the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) prospective cohort (N = 419 invasive cases and 838 matched controls). Controls were matched 2:1 on age, enrollment date, follow-up time, and study group (WHI clinical trial or observational study). We measured a panel of thirteen PMs and creatinine in two or three urine samples per participant over 1 to 3 years. Multivariable conditional logistic regression analysis was used to estimate risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals (RR, 95% CI) for breast cancer risk associated with each PM, with incorporation of measurement error correction approaches to account for the moderate within-participant variability of PMs. Results Overall, we did not observe statistically significant associations between individual PMs and breast cancer risk in analyses adjusted for matching factors, creatinine, body mass index, smoking status, and race/ethnicity: e.g., mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP; p trend = 0.31; e.g., RR 0.91, 95% CI, 0.62–1.33), monoethyl phthalate (MEP; p trend = 0.16; e.g., RR 0.80, 95% CI, 0.55–1.16 for 4th quartile vs. 1st quartile), monohydroxy-isobutyl phthalate (MHiBP; p trend = 0.11; e.g., RR 0.78, 95% CI, 0.51–1.18 for 4th quartile vs. 1st quartile, and monobenzyl phthalate (MBzP; p trend = 0.11; e.g., RR 0.86, 95% CI, 0.57–1.28 for 4th quartile vs. 1st quartile). Conclusions These results indicate that urinary phthalate metabolite levels are not related to increased breast cancer risk. However, some phthalate metabolites may be associated with decreased risk, possibly through anti-estrogenic actions. Future analyses will explore grouping metabolites by parent phthalate and also will separately evaluate breast cancer risk by tumor estrogen receptor status and explore potential effect modification.
Ethnic Disparities in Gastric Cancer Presentation and Screening Practice in the United States: An Analysis of 1997–2010 SEER-Medicare Data
Authors: Florea A , Brown HE , Harris RB , Oren E
Published: March 2018

Describe differences in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) screening among a Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare elderly population by ethnicity, place of birth, and gastric cancer (GC)-related conditions, as chronic infection with H. pylori is the strongest risk factor for distal GC. Methods: We used the National Cancer Institute's population-based SEER-Medicare cancer database for GC (1997–2010). We extracted demographic, location and disease staging information from the SEER data file, Patient Entitlement and Diagnosis Summary File. We obtained information on frequencies of various GC-related conditions (e.g., peptic ulcer, gastric ulcer, gastritis) and screening (H. pylori testing and endoscopy) from inpatient hospital and physician/outpatient services claims. Results: Data from 34,730 subjects were analyzed. The majority of Asian American/Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), 65.1%, were foreign-born, while majority of Non-Hispanic Whites (NHW), Hispanics and Blacks were US-born (88.7%, 51.3%, and 96.9%, respectively). NHWs were oldest at diagnosis (74.7 y.); Hispanic and Black cases were the youngest (72.4 and 72.9 y., respectively). For NHWs, the most frequently diagnosed GC site was the cardia (36.1%), while for AAPIs, Hispanics and Blacks, the most diagnosed sites were non-cardia (>80%, P < 0.001). Over 55% of NHW, Hispanic and Black cases were diagnosed at regional or distant stage, while 55% of AAPIs were diagnosed at local or regional stage. Over 57% of all cases had a history of GC-related conditions (AAPIs were highest at 64.1%). However, only 11.2% of total cases showed evidence of H. pylori testing. H. pylori testing was more frequent for foreign-born than US-born (2-fold increase in proportions) and AAPIs exhibited the highest proportion of H. pylori testing (22.6% among those with a GC-related condition). Conclusions: Screening for H. pylori was low for all GC cases, despite race/ethnic groups exhibiting conditions for which H. pylori testing is recommended. AAPI GC cases had the highest frequency of H. pylori testing with tumors staged locally or regionally; increased testing could lead to earlier stage of tumor at diagnosis. Future studies should investigate why screening rates are low in patients with GC-related conditions.
Sugar-Sweetened Cigarettes: Added Sugars in American Cigarette Brands
Authors: Seidenberg AB , van Nierop LE , Lindblom EN , Ribisl KM
Published: March 2018

Sugars are commonly added to American-blended cigarettes, and the presence of sugars in cigarettes increases the appeal, toxicity, and addictive potential of smoking. The purpose of this study was to identify the types and relative quantities of added sugars in the tobacco of popular American cigarette brands. Methods: We reviewed the company websites of Philip Morris USA (PMUSA) and RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company (RJR) for brand-specific ingredient lists for all PMUSA (n = 179) and RJR (n = 162) cigarette brand styles (combined 79% of US cigarette sales in 2016) and composite lists of all cigarette tobacco ingredients for both companies. From these lists, we identified known forms of saccharides (mono-, di-, and oligosaccharides). Results: All PMUSA and RJR cigarette brands contained at least one type of added sugar, except one RJR brand (6 brand styles), which contained no additives. By weight, sugars were the number one ingredient (excluding tobacco and water) in all PMUSA brands (e.g., Marlboro, Parliament, Virginia Slims). Examples of sugars added to PMUSA brands included high fructose corn syrup, sucrose, maltol, and ethyl maltol. Among RJR brands, sugar was the number two ingredient by weight (excluding tobacco and water) in most brands (e.g., Camel, Newport, Pall Mall). In some RJR brands, quantities of added sugar relative to other ingredients were more variable, ranging from the first to fourth most used ingredient by weight (e.g., Carlton, Doral, Kent, More). Types of sugars added to RJR brands included high fructose corn syrup, brown sugar, honey, glucose, and a variety of fruit juice concentrates (e.g., apple, fig, pineapple). Interestingly, many menthol cigarette brands (e.g., Newport, Marlboro Menthol, Camel Menthol) contained greater quantities of added sugar than menthol. Conclusions: A variety of sugars, including sugars routinely added to processed foods and beverages, are added to American cigarettes. Further, by weight, added sugars were the number one or number two ingredient in most cigarette brands. Given that added sugars increase the appeal, toxicity, and addictive potential of smoking, regulatory actions should be considered (e.g., a product standard for sugar) for the protection of public health.
Chemotherapy Induces Breast Cancer Stemness in Association with Dysregulated Monocytosis
Authors: Liu Liang , Yang Lin , Yan Wei , Zhai Jing , Pizzo Donald P. , Chu Peiguo , Chin Andrew R. , Shen Meng , Dong Chuan , Ruan Xianhui , Ren Xiubao , Somlo George , Wang Shizhen Emily
Published: March 2018

Purpose: Preoperative or neoadjuvant therapy (NT) is increasingly used in patients with locally advanced or inflammatory breast cancer to allow optimal surgery and aim for pathologic response. However, many breast cancers are resistant or relapse after treatment. Here, we investigated conjunctive chemotherapy-triggered events occurring systemically and locally, potentially promoting a cancer stem–like cell (CSC) phenotype and contributing to tumor relapse.

Experimental Design: We started by comparing the effect of paired pre- and post-NT patient sera on the CSC properties of breast cancer cells. Using cell lines, patient-derived xenograft models, and primary tumors, we investigated the regulation of CSCs and tumor progression by chemotherapy-induced factors.

Results: In human patients and mice, we detected a therapy-induced CSC-stimulatory activity in serum, which was attributed to therapy-associated monocytosis leading to systemic elevation of monocyte chemoattractant proteins (MCP). The post-NT hematopoietic regeneration in the bone marrow highlighted both altered monocyte–macrophage differentiation and biased commitment of stimulated hematopoietic stem cells toward monocytosis. Chemotherapeutic agents also induce monocyte expression of MCPs through a JNK-dependent mechanism. Genetic and pharmacologic inhibitions of the MCP-CCR2 pathway blocked chemotherapy's adverse effect on CSCs. Levels of nuclear Notch and ALDH1 were significantly elevated in primary breast cancers following NT, whereas higher levels of CCR2 in pre-NT tumors were associated with a poor response to NT.

Conclusions: Our data establish a mechanism of chemotherapy-induced cancer stemness by linking the cellular events in the bone marrow and tumors, and suggest pharmacologic inhibition of CCR2 as a potential cotreatment during conventional chemotherapy in neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings. Clin Cancer Res; 24(10); 2370–82. ©2018 AACR.
Nyvad Criteria for Caries Lesion Activity and Severity Assessment: A Validated Approach for Clinical Management and Research
Authors: Nyvad Bente , Baelum Vibeke
Published: March 2018

The Nyvad classification is a visual-tactile caries classification system devised to enable the detection of the activity and severity of caries lesions with special focus on low-caries populations. The criteria behind the classification reflect the entire continuum of caries, ranging from clinically sound surfaces through noncavitated and microcavitated caries lesions in enamel, to frank cavitation into the dentin. Lesion activity at each severity stage is discriminated by differences in surface topography and lesion texture. The reliability of the Nyvad criteria is high to excellent when used by trained examiners in the primary and permanent dentitions. The Nyvad criteria have construct validity for lesion activity assessments because of their ability to reflect the well-known caries-controlling effect of fluoride. Predictive validity was demonstrated by showing that active noncavitated lesions are at higher risk of progressing to a cavity or filled state than do inactive noncavitated lesions. Lesion activity assessment performed successfully as a screening tool to identify individuals with a poor caries prognosis. Because of their predictive validity, the Nyvad criteria are superior to other current caries lesion descriptors for the detection of changes in the lesion activity status over time. The Nyvad criteria fulfill all the formal requirements for a robust caries lesion classification and are recommended for evidence-based caries management in clinical practice and in research.
Exercise Performance of Lowlanders with COPD at 2,590 m: Data from a Randomized Trial
Authors: Furian Michael , Hartmann Sara E. , Latshang Tsogyal D. , Flueck Deborah , Murer Christian , Scheiwiller Philipp M. , Osmonov Batyr , Ulrich Silvia , Kohler Malcolm , Poulin Marc J. , Bloch Konrad E.
Published: March 2018

Background: Effects of hypobaric hypoxia at altitude on exercise performance of lowlanders with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have not been studied in detail. Objectives: To quantify changes in exercise performance and associated physiologic responses in lowlanders with COPD travelling to moderate altitude. Methods: A total of 31 COPD patients with a median age (quartiles) of 66 years (59; 69) and FEV1 of 56% predicted (49; 69) living below 800 m performed a constant-load bicycle exercise to exhaustion at 60% of the maximal work rate at 490 m (Zurich) and at an identical work rate at 2,590 m (Davos) in randomized order. Pulmonary gas exchange, pulse oximetry (SpO2), cerebral tissue oxygenation (CTO; near-infrared spectroscopy), and middle cerebral artery peak blood flow velocity (MCAv) by Doppler ultrasound during 30 s at end exercise were compared between altitudes. Results: With ascent from 490 to 2,590 m, the median endurance time (quartiles) was reduced from 500 s (256; 795) to 205 s (139; 297) by a median (95% CI) of 303 s (150–420) (p < 0.001). End exercise SpO2 decreased from 92% (89; 94) to 81% (77; 84) and CTO from 62% (56; 66) to 55% (50; 60); end exercise minute ventilation increased from 40.6 L/min (35.5; 47.8) to 47.2 L/min (39.6; 58.7) (p < 0.05; all comparisons 2,590 vs. 490 m). MCAv increased similarly from rest to end exercise at 490 m (+25% [17; 36]) and at 2,590 m (+21% [14; 30]). However, the ratio of MCAv increase to SpO2 drop during exercise decreased from +6%/% (3; 12) at 490 m to +3%/% (2; 5) at 2,590 m (p < 0.05). Conclusions: In lowlanders with COPD travelling to 2,590 m, exercise endurance is reduced by more than half compared to 490 m in association with reductions in systemic and cerebral oxygen availability.
Prospective, Observational, Non-Interventional, Multicentre Study on the Efficacy and Tolerability of a New Calcipotriol/Betamethasone Aerosol Foam (Enstilar®) in Patients with Plaque Psoriasis under Daily Practice Conditions
Authors: Gerdes Sascha , Krakor Marion , Anger Tobias , Hutt Hans Joachim , Körber Andreas
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: To assess the efficacy and tolerability of the new aerosol foam of calcipotriol 50 µg/g plus betamethasone dipropionate 0.5 mg/g (Cal/BD foam, Enstilar®) in psoriasis vulgaris under daily practice conditions. Methods: 410 adult psoriasis patients (56% male) from 87 German sites were enrolled in a 4-week, open-label, prospective, non-controlled, observational, non-interventional study. Results: At baseline, patients presented with a psoriasis severity of mild (41.81%), moderate (49.63%), and severe (8.31%) assessed by an investigator global assessment (IGA). After 4 weeks of treatment, 49% of the patients achieved an IGA of clear/almost clear. The mean affected body surface area was reduced from 12.91 to 7.55%, the PASI from 10.4 to 5.2 (p < 0.0001). 43% of the patients with severe IGA achieved treatment success (IGA = 0/1 and ≥2-step improvement). 93% of the patients did not show any adverse events. Conclusion: The new Cal/BD foam showed a convincing efficacy and tolerability profile in daily practice, particularly in patients with severer disease manifestations.
A Prospective Observational Study Evaluating the Correlation of c-MET Expression and EGFR Gene Mutation with Response to Erlotinib as Second-Line Treatment for Patients with Advanced/Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Park Cheol-Kyu , Oh In-Jae , Choi Yoo-Duk , Jang Tae-Won , Lee Jeong-Eun , Ryu Jeong-Seon , Lee Shin-Yup , Kim Young-Chul
Published: March 2018

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and predictive role of c-MET expression and EGFR mutation in the efficacy of erlotinib in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: We prospectively recruited 196 patients with stage IV or recurrent NSCLC treated with erlotinib after failure of first-line chemotherapy. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate c-MET overexpression, silver in situ hybridization (SISH) to assess gene copy number, and real-time polymerase chain reaction to detect EGFR mutations, respectively, in tumor tissue. Results: The major histologic type was adenocarcinoma (66.8%). c-MET was overexpressed in 55.8% (87/156) and dominant in females as well as non-squamous histology. Although c-MET gene amplification and high polysomy were observed in 2.0% (3/152) and 11.2% (17/152), they did not correlate with any characteristics. EGFR mutation was detected in 13.1% (20/153). The objective response rate of erlotinib was higher (61.1 vs. 3.7%, p < 0.001) and the median progression-free survival (PFS) was longer (10.2 vs. 1.9 months, p < 0.001) in EGFR-sensitizing mutations. However, c-MET positivity did not show a significant correlation with response to erlotinib or PFS. Conclusion: We reconfirmed EGFR mutation as a strong predictive marker of NSCLC. However, c-MET positivity was not associated with response or PFS, although c-MET overexpression correlated with some clinical characteristics.
Evaluation of Prolidase Activity, Oxidative Stress, and Antioxidant Enzyme Levels in Testicular and Penile Tissues after Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Treatment in Rats by Predicting Infertility and Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Pirinççi Necip , Yildirim Serkan , Taş Abuzer , Kuşcu Yağmur , Ozan Tunç , Fırdolaş Fatih , Demir Halit , Karakeci Ahmet
Published: March 2018

Objectives: Prolidase plays a vital role in collagen turnover, matrix remodeling, and cell growth. We aimed to evaluate the association between treatment with chorionic gonadotropin and infertility and erectile dysfunction by investigating tissue prolidase activity, oxidative stress, and levels of antioxidant enzymes. Materials and Methods: The 16 male Wistar albino rats used in this study were randomly divided into 2 groups: rats treated with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and control rats (n = 8 in each group). The rats in the hCG group were subcutaneously injected with 50 IU hCG daily for 15 days, while the rats in the control group were subcutaneously injected isotonic saline. All of the rats were sacrificed by a lethal overdose of sodium pentobarbital at the first month after hCG administration. Prolidase activity and levels of malonyl aldehyde, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) were estimated in the testicular and penile tissue. The testicles and penis were transversely dissected and placed in formalin. Results: Levels of prolidase and malonyl aldehyde in the testicular and penile tissues were significantly higher in the hCG group than in the control group (p < 0.001), while levels of glutathione reductase, SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT were significantly lower in the hCG group than in the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this study, we observed that treatment with hCG increased prolidase activity and oxidative stress and decreased the antioxidant capacity of penile and testicular tissues; therefore, this may affect fertility and erectile function.
Transportes Turísticos da Ilha de Paquetá: sensações, descobertas e motivações
Authors: Carmo Vinícius Alves
Published: March 2018

O trabalho aborda a conceituação da experiência turística, apresentando a vivência da serendipidade durante a prática turística e o projeto da economia da experiência lançado entre o Sebrae e o Ministério do Turismo. Além de apresentar a Ilha de Paquetá a partir de sua geografia em conjunto com sua história, mostra-se o panorama da questão das charretes a partir de 2010. E, por fim, o acervo turístico e paisagístico de Paquetá é identificado. Como conclusão, a pesquisa de campo demonstrou que a motivação, as lembranças e as sensações obtidas pelos turistas durante a visita à ilha são geradas pela possibilidade do conhecimento de curiosidades e atrativos naturais da Ilha, realização de passeio cultural com familiares, práticas de lazer e fotos, e não pelo uso dos transportes.
Da Geografia à Literatura: um percurso de vida
Authors: Laganá Liliana
Published: March 2018

Neste texto, a autora discorre sobre os momentos fundamentais do caminho por ela percorrido da geografia à literatura, destacando sempre a importância por ela dada a um real e profundo contato entre as diversas áreas do saber, única forma possível de entender uma realidade cada vez mais complexa e diversificada. Apresenta a seguir um texto, intitulado “Confiteor: confissões de uma imigrante italiana à cidade de São Paulo”, construído como um exemplo do encontro possível entre geografia e literatura.