bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of surgical site infection following caesarean section: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Saeed Khalid B M , Greene Richard A , Corcoran Paul , O'Neill Sinéad M
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Caesarean section (CS) rates have increased globally during the past three decades. Surgical site infection (SSI) following CS is a common cause of morbidity with reported rates of 3–15%. SSI represents a substantial burden to the health system including increased length of hospitalisation and costs of postdischarge care. The definition of SSI varies with the postoperative follow-up period among different health systems, resulting in differences in the reporting of SSI incidence. We propose to conduct the first systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the pooled estimate for the overall incidence of SSI following CS.

Methods and analysis

We will perform a comprehensive search to identify all potentially relevant published studies on the incidence of SSI following CS reported from 1992 in the English language. Electronic databases including PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Scopus will be searched using a detailed search strategy. Following study selection, full-text paper retrieval, data extraction and synthesis, we will appraise study quality and risk of bias and assess heterogeneity. Incidence data will be combined where feasible in a meta-analysis using Stata software and fixed-effects or random-effects models as appropriate. This systematic review will be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as this review will use published data. The review will evaluate the overall incidence of SSI following CS and will provide the first quantitative estimate of the magnitude of SSI. It will serve as a benchmark for future studies, identify research gaps and remaining challenges, and emphasise the need for appropriate prevention and control measures for SSI post-CS. A manuscript reporting the results of the systematic review and meta-analysis will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal and presented at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

CRD42015024426.
New drug therapies for treating cancer in dogs and cats
Authors: Elliott James
Published: January 2017

Over the past few years there have been several exciting drug developments for use in veterinary patients that are specifically marketed for the treatment of neoplastic disease. These have largely arisen due to an increased understanding of the science behind cancer development and treatment, such as the underlying role of mutations/dysregulation of the c‐kit gene in mast cell tumours. There have also been some alterations in the way traditional medications are administered to exploit certain biological processes such as tumour blood vessel formation and growth (eg, metronomic chemotherapy). This article summarises some of these newer, emerging treatments.
Prevalence, location and concurrent diseases of ultrasonographic cyst‐like lesions of abdominal lymph nodes in dogs
Authors: Liotta A. , Billen F. , Heimann M. , Hamaide A. , Rizza M. , Etienne A. L. , Bolen G.
Published: January 2017

Lymph nodal cyst‐like lesions are occasionally identified during abdominal ultrasound in dogs. However, a study evaluating their prevalence and clinical significance is lacking. The aim of this observational cross‐sectional study was to evaluate prevalence, most common location and concurrent diseases of cyst‐like lymph nodes detected during abdominal ultrasound. Affected lymph nodes, patient signalment and concurrent diseases of dogs with cyst‐like lymph nodal lesions having undergone abdominal ultrasound over a one‐year period were recorded. Twenty‐three affected lymph nodes were observed in 17/553 dogs (prevalence=3 per cent). The most commonly affected was the lumbar lymphocenter (7/23), followed by the coeliac (6/23), the cranial mesenteric (5/23) and the iliosacral (5/23). Twenty‐three concurrent diseases were diagnosed in 17 dogs, among which 16/23 were non‐neoplastic (70 per cent). The most common concurrent disease was renal insufficiency (8/23), followed by neoplasia (7/23), gastroenteropathy (3/23), benign prostatic disease (2/23), pancreatitis (1/23), peritonitis (1/23) and neurological disease (1/23). No statistical correlation existed between cyst‐like lymph nodal lesion and a specific neoplastic or non‐neoplastic disease. In conclusion, in the present study, cyst‐like lymph nodal lesions have a low prevalence, involve different lymphocenters and were found in dogs affected by different diseases, including both non‐neoplastic and neoplastic aetiologies.
Double‐blinded randomised placebo‐controlled clinical trial of individualised homeopathic treatment of hyperthyroid cats
Authors: Bodey A. L. , Almond C. J. , Holmes M. A.
Published: January 2017

Feline hyperthyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in older cats for which homeopathic treatment has been advocated. A double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled randomised trial was performed to look for evidence of efficacy for the use of individualised homeopathy in the treatment of this disease. Using a case definition of a concentration of the thyroid hormone T4 >66 nmol/l, cats were randomised into two treatment arms. Either a placebo or a homeopathic treatment was given to each cat blindly. After 21 days, the T4 levels, weight (Wt) and heart rate (HR) were compared with pretreatment values. There were no statistically significant differences in the changes seen between the two treatment arms following placebo or homeopathic treatment (T4 P=0.96, Wt P=0.16, HR P=0.36) or between the means of each parameter for either treatment arm before and after placebo or homeopathic treatment (all P values >0.13). In a second phase of the study, patients in both treatment arms were given methimazole treatment for 21 days and T4, Wt and HR determined again. Again there were no statistically significant differences between the groups, but there were statistically significant reductions in T4 (P<0.0001) and HR (P=0.02), and a statistically significant increase in Wt (P=0.004) in both groups compared with their pre‐methimazole treatment levels. The results of this study failed to provide any evidence of the efficacy of homeopathic treatment of feline hyperthyroidism.
My week: Francesco Cian
Authors: Cian Francesco
Published: January 2017

Francesco Cian is a veterinary clinical pathologist and co‐manager at BattLab, a veterinary diagnostic laboratory based in Coventry
Determination of coherent to Compton scattering differential cross section ratios of some inorganic materials with EDXRF
Authors: Yılmaz D. , Şimşek Ü. , Akkuş T. , Şahin Y.
Published: January 2017

In this study, we aimed to determine coherent to Compton scattering differential cross section ratios of some inorganic materials (BaSO4, CaF2, Mg2SiO4, MgSO4, and ZnSO4(7H2O)) for several scattering angles (95°, 105°, 115°, 125°, and 135°). Coherent to Compton scattering differential cross section ratios were investigated experimentally by using an HPGe detector, which has a resolution of 199.6 eV at the 5.9 keV. The samples were excited with 59.54 keV gamma rays emitted from Am241 point source. The intensity ratios were corrected due to the photopeak efficiency of the gamma detector and absorption of photons in the target and air. It is observed that coherent to Compton scattering differential cross section ratios decrease with increasing scattering angle.
Site fidelity and movement of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the western Gulf of Alaska as revealed by photo-identification
Authors: Witteveen Briana H. , Wynne Kate M.
Published: January 2017

We describe feeding-site fidelity in terms of the rate of annual return by individual humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae (Borowski, 1781)) to Kodiak Archipelago and Shumagin Islands feeding areas and the rate of exchange between these Gulf of Alaska feeding aggregations. Individual whales were photo-identified in both regions between 1999 and 2015 during vessel surveys, either throughout the feeding season (Kodiak region) or in brief 7- to 10-day windows (Shumagin Islands). Feeding-site fidelity was assessed in terms of individuals’ annual return rate, sighting interval, total number of years sighted, and movement between feeding areas. We found similarly high degrees of site fidelity in both regions and limited movement of individuals between them, suggesting that the Shumagin Islands and Kodiak Archipelago represent distinct feeding aggregations. Results did not appear affected by temporal differences in sampling strategy in these study areas.
Imperfection sensitivity of the nonlinear axial buckling behavior of FGM nanoshells in thermal environments based on surface elasticity theory
Authors: Sahmani S. , Aghdam M. M.
Published: January 2017

A size-dependent shell model which accounts for geometrical imperfection sensitivity of the axial postbuckling characteristics of a cylindrical nanoshell made of functionally graded material (FGM) is proposed within the framework of the surface elasticity theory. In accordance with a power law, the material properties of the FGM nanoshell are supposed to vary through the shell thickness. In order to eliminate the stretching-bending coupling terms, the change in the position of physical neutral plane corresponding to different volume fractions is taken into account. Based upon the virtual work’s principle, the non-classical governing differential equations are derived and then deduced to boundary layer-type ones. After that, a perturbation-based solution methodology is employed to predict the size dependency in the nonlinear instability of perfect and imperfect axially loaded FGM nanoshells with various values of shell thickness, material property gradient index and different uniform temperature changes. It was seen that for thicker FGM nanoshells in which the surface free energy effects diminish, the influence of the initial geometric imperfection on the critical buckling load is higher than its influence on the minimum load of the postbuckling domain. It is also found that through reduction of the surface free energy effects, the influence of material property gradient index on the critical end-shortening of FGM nanoshell decreases.
A Study of the Thoughts Behind the Construction of a National Carbon Trading System
Authors: ZHENG Shuang
Published: January 2017

Both The 12th Five-Year Plan and the Decision of the Third Plenary Session of the 18th Central Committee of the CPC have proposed the establishment of a national carbon emissions trading market, which will be a major institutional innovation in China's efforts to address climate change. By exploring the necessity of implementing carbon emissions trading in China, this paper summarizes the practices and experience of carbon trading pilots in seven provinces and cities since 2013, put forward the purposes, roadmaps, and main content in the construction of carbon emissions trading systems in China.
Parallel microarray profiling identifies ErbB4 as a determinant of cyst growth in ADPKD and a prognostic biomarker for disease progression
Authors: Streets Andrew J. , Magayr Tajdida A. , Huang Linghong , Vergoz Laura , Rossetti Sandro , Simms Roslyn J. , Harris Peter C. , Peters Dorien J. M. , Ong Albert C. M.
Published: January 2017

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the fourth most common cause of end-stage renal disease. The disease course can be highly variable and treatment options are limited. To identify new therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers of disease, we conducted parallel discovery microarray profiling in normal and diseased human PKD1 cystic kidney cells. A total of 1,515 genes and 5 miRNA were differentially expressed by more than twofold in PKD1 cells. Functional enrichment analysis identified 30 dysregulated signaling pathways including the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor pathway. In this paper, we report that the EGF/ErbB family receptor ErbB4 is a major factor driving cyst growth in ADPKD. Expression of ErbB4 in vivo was increased in human ADPKD and Pkd1 cystic kidneys, both transcriptionally and posttranscriptionally by mir-193b-3p. Ligand-induced activation of ErbB4 drives cystic proliferation and expansion suggesting a pathogenic role in cystogenesis. Our results implicate ErbB4 activation as functionally relevant in ADPKD, both as a marker of disease activity and as a new therapeutic target in this major kidney disease.
A Low-Complexity Region-Based Authentication Algorithm for 3D Polygonal Models
Authors: Tsai Yuan-Yu , Cheng Tsung-Chieh , Huang Yao-Hsien
Published: January 2017

This study proposes a low-complexity region-based authentication algorithm for three-dimensional (3D) polygonal models, based on local geometrical property evaluation. A vertex traversal scheme with a secret key is adopted to classify each vertex into one of two categories: embeddable vertices and reference vertices. An embeddable vertex is one with an authentication code embedded. The algorithm then uses reference vertices to calculate local geometrical properties for the corresponding embeddable vertices. For each embeddable vertex, we feed the number of reference vertices and local properties into a hash function to generate the authentication code. The embeddable vertex is then embedded with the authentication code, which is based on a simple message-digit substitution scheme. The proposed algorithm is of low complexity and distortion-controllable and possesses a higher and more adaptive embedding capacity and a higher embedding rate than most existing region-based authentication algorithms for 3D polygonal models. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed algorithm.
Correlation of Oncotype DX Recurrence Score with Histomorphology and Immunohistochemistry in over 500 Patients
Authors: Hanna Matthew G. , Bleiweiss Ira J. , Nayak Anupma , Jaffer Shabnam
Published: January 2017

Oncotype Dx is used to determine the recurrence risk (RR) in patients with estrogen receptor positive (ER+) and lymph node negative (LN−) breast cancer. The RR is divided into low (0–17), intermediate (18–30), and high (31) to predict chemotherapy benefit. Our goal was to determine the association between histomorphology, immunohistochemistry, and RR. We retrospectively identified 536 patients with ER+ and LN− breast cancers that underwent Oncotype testing from 2006 to 2013. Tumor size ranged from 0.2 cm to 6.5 cm (mean = 1.3 cm) and was uniform in all 3 categories. The carcinomas were as follows: ductal = 63.2%, lobular = 11.1%, and mixed = 35.7%. The RR correlated with the Nottingham grade. Increasing RR was inversely related to PR positivity but directly to Her2 positivity. Of the morphologic parameters, a tubular(lobular) morphology correlated only with low-intermediate scores and anaplastic type with intermediate-high scores. Other morphologies like micropapillary and mucinous were uniformly distributed in each category. Carcinomas with comedo intraductal carcinoma were more likely associated with high RR. Forty-four patients with either isolated tumor cells or micrometastases were evenly distributed amongst the 3 RR. While there was only 1 ER discrepancy between our immunohistochemistry (3+ 80%) and Oncotype, up to 8% of PR+ cases (mean = 15%, median = 5%) and 2% of HER2+ cases were undervalued by Oncotype.
Tetracyclines in Food and Feedingstuffs: From Regulation to Analytical Methods, Bacterial Resistance, and Environmental and Health Implications
Authors: Granados-Chinchilla Fabio , Rodríguez César
Published: January 2017

Antibiotics are widely used as growth promoters in animal husbandry; among them, the tetracyclines are a chemical group of relevance, due to their wide use in agriculture, surpassing in quantities applied almost every other antibiotic family. Seeing the considerable amounts of tetracyclines used worldwide, monitoring of these antibiotics is paramount. Advances must be made in the analysis of antibiotics to assess correct usage and dosage of tetracyclines in food and feedstuffs and possible residues in pertinent environmental samples. The tetracyclines are still considered a clinically relevant group of antibiotics, though dissemination of tolerance and resistance determinants have limited their use. This review focuses on four different aspects: (i) tetracyclines, usage, dosages, and regulatory issues that govern their food-related application, with particular attention to the prohibitions and restrictions that several countries have enforced in recent years by agencies from both the United States and the European Union, (ii) analytical methods for tetracyclines, determination, and residues thereof in feedstuffs and related matrices with an emphasis on the most relevant and novel techniques, including both screening and confirmatory methods, (iii) tetracycline resistance and tetracycline-resistant bacteria in feedstuff, and (iv) environmental and health risks accompanying the use of tetracyclines in animal nutrition. In the last two cases, we discuss the more relevant undesirable effects that tetracyclines exert over bacterial communities and nontarget species including unwanted effects in farmers.
A Possible Regression Equation for Predicting Visual Outcomes after Surgical Repair of Open Globe Injuries
Authors: Gursoy Huseyin , Bilgec Mustafa Deger , Sahin Afsun , Colak Ertugrul
Published: January 2017

Background. To analyze the effects of factors other than the ocular trauma score parameters on visual outcomes in open globe injuries.Methods. Open globe injuries primarily repaired in our hospital were reviewed. The number of surgeries, performance of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), lens status, affected tissues (corneal, scleral, or corneoscleral), intravitreal hemorrhage, intraocular foreign body, glaucoma, anterior segment inflammation, loss of iris tissue, cutting of any prolapsed vitreous in the primary surgery, penetrating injury, and the time interval between the trauma and repair were the thirteen variables evaluated using linear regression analysis.Results. In total, 131 eyes with a mean follow-up of16.1±4.7(12–36) months and a mean age of33.8±22.2(4–88) years were included. The regression coefficients were 0.502, 0.960, 0.831, −0.385, and −0.506 for the performance of PPV, aphakia after the initial trauma, loss of iris tissue, penetrating injury, and cutting of any prolapsed vitreous in the primary surgery, respectively (P<0.05for these variables).Conclusions. The performance of PPV, aphakia after the initial trauma, and loss of iris tissue were associated with poor visual outcomes, whereas cutting any prolapsed vitreous in the primary repair and penetrating-type injury were associated with better visual outcomes.
Decolourisation Capabilities of Ligninolytic Enzymes Produced byMarasmius cladophyllusUMAS MS8 on Remazol Brilliant Blue R and Other Azo Dyes
Authors: Sing Ngieng Ngui , Husaini Ahmad , Zulkharnain Azham , Roslan Hairul Azman
Published: January 2017

Marasmius cladophylluswas examined for its ability to degradatively decolourise the recalcitrant dye Remazol Brilliant Blue R (RBBR) and screened for the production of ligninolytic enzymes using specific substrates. Monitoring dye decolourisation by the decrease in absorbance ratio ofA592/A500shows that the decolourisation of RBBR dye was associated with the dye degradation.Marasmius cladophyllusproduces laccase and lignin peroxidase in glucose minimal liquid medium containing RBBR. Both enzyme activities were increased, with laccase activity recorded 70 times higher reaching up to 390 U L−1on day 12. Further in vitro RBBR dye decolourisation using the culture medium shows that laccase activity was correlated with the dye decolourisation. Fresh RBBR dye continuously supplemented into the decolourised culture medium was further decolourised much faster in the subsequent round of the RBBR dye decolourisation. In vitro dye decolourisation using the crude laccase not only decolourised 76% of RBBR dye in just 19 hours but also decolourised 54% of Orange G and 33% of Congo red at the same period of time without the use of any exogenous mediator. This rapid dye decolourisation ability of the enzymes produced byM. cladophyllusthus suggested its possible application in the bioremediation of dye containing wastewater.
Numerical Validation of Analytical Estimates for Propagation of Thermal Waves Generated by Gas-Solid Combustion
Authors: da Silva Pereira Weslley , Chapiro Grigori
Published: January 2017

Gas-solid combustion appears in many applications such as in situ combustion, which is a potential technique for oil recovery. Previous work has analyzed traveling wave solutions and obtained analytical formulas describing combustion wave temperature, velocity, and gas velocity for one-dimensional gas-solid combustion model using geometrical singular perturbation theory. In the present work these formulas are generalized. Using numerical simulation we show that they can be adapted and then applied to describe more general two-dimensional models for in situ combustion in a nonhomogeneous porous medium.
Activity Disengagement: Understanding Challenges and Opportunities for Reengagement
Authors: Fox Krista , Morrow-Howell Nancy , Herbers Stephanie , Battista Paula , Baum Carolyn M.
Published: January 2017

Although maintaining engagement in activities has a positive influence on our health and wellbeing as we age, many programs that serve older adults struggle with getting participation in the programs they offer. This study sought to explore activity disengagement among older adults in a senior housing community and identify the challenges and opportunities for reengagement with the aim of informing future intervention development and testing. Fifty-one adults over the age of 60 participated in structured interviews. Findings highlighted that many older adults have activities patterns that are not optimal for health. Many reasons given for disengaging in activities (e.g., no opportunity) were surprising given that participants lived in a setting where a variety of programs were offered. Programs need to more purposively address social challenges to participating in activities and consider a more person-centered approach when developing interventions for the older adults they serve.
High Serum Alkaline Phosphatase, Hypercalcaemia, Race, and Mortality in South African Maintenance Haemodialysis Patients
Authors: Waziri Bala , Duarte Raquel , Naicker Saraladevi
Published: January 2017

Objective. To determine the association between serum total alkaline phosphatase (TAP) and mortality in African maintenance haemodialysis patients (MHD). Patients and Methods. The study enrolled a total of 213 patients on MHD from two dialysis centers in Johannesburg between January 2009 and March 2016. Patients were categorized into a low TAP group (≤112 U/L) versus a high TAP group (>112 U/L) based on a median TAP of 112 U/L. Results. During the follow-up period of 7 years, there were 55 (25.8%) deaths. After adjusting for cofounders such as age, other markers of bone disorder, and comorbidity (diabetes mellitus), patients in the high TAP group had significantly higher risk of death compared to patients in the low TAP group (hazard ratio, 2.50; 95% CI 1.24–5.01, P = 0.01). Similarly, serum calcium >2.75 mmol/L was associated with increased risk of death compared to patients within levels of 2.10–2.37 mmol/L (HR 6.34, 95% CI 1.40–28.76; P = 0.02). The HR for death in white patients compared to black patients was 6.88; 95% CI 1.82–25.88; P = 0.004. Conclusion. High levels of serum alkaline phosphatase, hypercalcaemia, and white race are associated with increased risk of death in MHD patients.
A Framework for Estimating Long Term Driver Behavior
Authors: Gadepally Vijay , Krishnamurthy Ashok , Özgüner Ümit
Published: January 2017

We present a framework for estimation of long term driver behavior for autonomous vehicles and vehicle safety systems. The Hybrid State System and Hidden Markov Model (HSS+HMM) system discussed in this article is capable of describing the hybrid characteristics of driver and vehicle coupling. In our model, driving observations follow a continuous trajectory that can be measured to create continuous state estimates. These continuous state estimates can then be used to estimate the most likely driver state using decision-behavior coupling inherent to the HSS+HMM system. The HSS+HMM system is encompassed in a HSS structure and intersystem connectivity is determined by using signal processing and pattern recognition techniques. The proposed method is suitable for a number of autonomous and vehicle safety scenarios such as estimating intent of other vehicles near intersections or avoiding hazardous driving events such as unexpected lane changes. The long term driver behavior estimation system involves an extended HSS+HMM structure that is capable of including external information in the estimation process. Through the grafting and pruning of metastates, the HSS+HMM system can be dynamically updated to best represent driver choices given external information. Three application examples are also provided to elucidate the theoretical system.
Rutin as a Mediator of Lipid Metabolism and Cellular Signaling Pathways Interactions in Fibroblasts Altered by UVA and UVB Radiation
Authors: Gęgotek Agnieszka , Rybałtowska-Kawałko Paula , Skrzydlewska Elżbieta
Published: January 2017

Background. Rutin is a natural nutraceutical that is a promising compound for the prevention of UV‐induced metabolic changes in skin cells. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of rutin on redox and endocannabinoid systems, as well as proinflammatory and proapoptotic processes, in UV‐irradiated fibroblasts. Methods. Fibroblasts exposed to UVA and UVB radiation were treated with rutin. The activities and levels of oxidants/antioxidants and endocannabinoid system components, as well as lipid, DNA, and protein oxidation products, and the proinflammatory and pro/antiapoptotic proteins expression were measured. Results. Rutin reduced UV‐induced proinflammatory response and ROS generation and enhanced the activity/levels of antioxidants (SOD, GSH‐Px, vitamin E, GSH, and Trx). Rutin also normalized UV‐induced Nrf2 expression. Its biological activity prevented changes in the levels of the lipid mediators: MDA, 4‐HNE, and endocannabinoids, as well as the endocannabinoid receptors CB1/2, VR1, and GPR55 expression. Furthermore, rutin prevented the protein modifications (tyrosine derivatives formation in particular) and decreased the levels of the proapoptotic markers—caspase‐3 and cytochrome c. Conclusion. Rutin prevents UV‐induced inflammation and redox imbalance at protein and transcriptional level which favors lipid, protein, and DNA protection. In consequence rutin regulates endocannabinoid system and apoptotic balance.
Associations of Occupational Stressors, Perceived Organizational Support, and Psychological Capital with Work Engagement among Chinese Female Nurses
Authors: Wang Xiaoxi , Liu Li , Zou Futing , Hao Junhui , Wu Hui
Published: January 2017

This study aimed to explore the associations of occupational stressors (extrinsic effort, reward, and overcommitment), perceived organizational support (POS), and psychological capital (PsyCap) and its components (self-efficacy, hope, resilience, and optimism) with work engagement and the mediating roles of PsyCap and its components among Chinese female nurses within the framework of the job demands-resources (JD-R) model. A cross-sectional sample (1,330) completed the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, Effort-Reward Imbalance Scale, Survey of POS, and PsyCap Questionnaire, and effective respondents were 1,016 (76.4%). Hierarchical regression analysis and Preacher and Hayes’ asymptotic and resampling strategies were used. Extrinsic effort was negatively associated with vigor, dedication, and absorption, while POS, PsyCap, and hope were positively associated with them. Reward and overcommitment were positively associated with dedication and absorption. Optimism was positively associated with vigor and dedication. Optimism mediated the associations of extrinsic effort, reward, and POS with vigor and dedication. PsyCap and hope mediated the associations of POS with vigor, dedication, and absorption. There is a low level of work engagement among Chinese female nurses. Extrinsic effort could reduce work engagement, while reward, overcommitment, POS, PsyCap, hope, and optimism could enhance work engagement. Hospital managers should develop the PsyCap of female nurses through controlling occupational stressors and establishing supportive organizational climate to enhance their work engagement.
IL-1β-Induced Accumulation of Amyloid: Macroautophagy in Skeletal Muscle Depends on ERK
Authors: Schmidt Karsten , Wienken Magdalena , Keller Christian W. , Balcarek Peter , Münz Christian , Schmidt Jens
Published: January 2017

The pathology of inclusion body myositis (IBM) involves an inflammatory response and β-amyloid deposits in muscle fibres. It is believed that MAP kinases such as the ERK signalling pathway mediate the inflammatory signalling in cells. Further, there is evidence that autophagic activity plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of IBM. Using a well established in vitro model of IBM, the autophagic pathway, MAP kinases, and accumulation of β-amyloid were examined. We demonstrate that stimulation of muscle cells with IL-1β and IFN-γ led to an increased phosphorylation of ERK. The ERK inhibitor PD98059 diminished the expression of proinflammatory markers as well as the accumulation of β-amyloid. In addition, IL-1β and IFN-γ led to an increase of autophagic activity, upregulation of APP, and subsequent accumulation of β-sheet aggregates. Taken together, the data demonstrate that the ERK pathway contributes to formation of β-amyloid and regulation of autophagic activity in muscle cells exposed to proinflammatory cell stress. This suggests that ERK serves as an important mediator between inflammatory mechanisms and protein deposition in skeletal muscle and is a crucial element of the pathology of IBM.
Drivers’ Interaction with Adaptive Cruise Control on Dry and Snowy Roads with Various Tire-Road Grip Potentials
Authors: Koglbauer Ioana , Holzinger Jürgen , Eichberger Arno , Lex Cornelia
Published: January 2017

This study investigates drivers’ interaction with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) in different road conditions and identifies areas of improvement. Ninety-six drivers drove with the ACC in a driving simulator showing either a summer scenery and a dry road with high grip potential or a winter scenery with a snowy road and reduced grip potential. The results show that on snowy roads the drivers set in average a lower ACC speed and preferred a larger ACC time gap. Drivers’ workload and effort were higher when using the ACC on snowy as compared to dry roads. Generally, the use of a shorter ACC gap resulted in lower ratings of comfort, safety, and trust and higher ratings of mental workload and effort in both dry and snowy road conditions. The drivers judged that ACC was braking too late and maintained a too short gap to the forward vehicle, especially when the ACC was set to 1 second as compared to a 1.8-second time gap. A future adaptation of ACC’s control strategy to reduced tire-road grip potential would not only improve comfort and user acceptance of the human driver but also increase the potential to react in emergency situations with braking or evasive steering.
Propagation Characterization Based on Geographic Location Variation for 5G Small Cells
Authors: Lee Byung-Jin , Cho Ju-Phil , Ra In-Ho , Kim Kyung-Seok
Published: January 2017

Developments in next-generation wireless transmission technology and efficient frequency-use research are based on understanding the characteristics of the exact radio channel. With regard to developments in next-generation mobile communication systems, performance verification of the development system is essential, for which it is necessary to estimate the exact wireless-space channel. This paper presents results of the analysis of radio propagation characteristics based on location variation in outdoor environments for small-cell 5th generation (5G) mobile systems. Changes due to variation in location were measured using a channel sounder in a microcell environment with a 0.5 km radius in Korea. In order to analyze the propagation characteristics, the best distribution model reflecting the characteristics of the locations was derived. A comparison between actual measurements and three-dimensional ray-tracing simulation results confirmed the validity of the measurement result.
Acupuncture for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Shin Na Young , Lim Young Jin , Yang Chae Ha , Kim Cheongtag
Published: January 2017

Empirical research has produced mixed results regarding the effects of acupuncture on the treatment of alcohol use disorder in humans. Few studies have provided a comprehensive review or a systematic overview of the magnitude of the treatment effect of acupuncture on alcoholism. This study investigated the effects of acupuncture on alcohol‐related symptoms and behaviors in patients with this disorder. The PubMed database was searched until 23 August 2016, and reference lists from review studies were also reviewed. Seventeen studies were identified for a full‐text inspection, and seven (243 patients) of these met our inclusion criteria. The outcomes assessed at the last posttreatment point and any available follow‐up data were extracted from each of the studies. Our meta‐analysis demonstrated that an acupuncture intervention had a stronger effect on reducing alcohol‐related symptoms and behaviors than did the control intervention (g = 0.67). A beneficial but weak effect of acupuncture treatment was also found in the follow‐up data (g = 0.29). Although our analysis showed a significant difference between acupuncture and the control intervention in patients with alcohol use disorder, this meta‐analysis is limited by the small number of studies included. Thus, a larger cohort study is required to provide a firm conclusion.
Histological and Immunohistochemical Evaluation of the Efficacy of a New Cosmetic Formulation in the Treatment of Skin Photoaging
Authors: Truchuelo M. T. , Jiménez N. , Miguel-Gomez L. , Hermosa A. , Sánchez-Neila N. , Cuevas J.
Published: January 2017

Objective. Mechanism of action of cosmetic products is not often studied. The aim of this study is to determine the histological, immunohistochemical, and clinical changes of a new cosmetic formulation.Methods. Prospective, single-blind, patient-controlled, randomized study in 10 volunteers with mild to moderate skin photoaging on the back of their hands. The product was applied on one hand and a standard cream on the other hand, twice a day for three months. Standardized photographs were taken on basal (T0) and final visit (T1) and skin biopsies were performed. Changes on histological and immunohistochemical markers were studied. Subjective clinical changes were determined.Results. After treatment, a 26.3% improvement on epidermal thickness was detected and a significant increase on collagens I and III, elastin, and fibronectin fibers was achieved (p<0.05). As the expression of MMPs remained stable, this improvement of dermal matrix was attributed to the stimulation of their synthesis. A significant clinical improvement on the treated hand was obtained, compared to control hand.Conclusion. This new cosmetic product with combination of three registered technologies (IFC-CAF, WGC, and RetinSphere), focused on regenerating dermal matrix and activating proliferation of skin cells, has shown to be efficient in the reversion of skin photoaging.
Right Hemisphere Remapping of Naming Functions Depends on Lesion Size and Location in Poststroke Aphasia
Authors: Skipper-Kallal Laura M. , Lacey Elizabeth H. , Xing Shihui , Turkeltaub Peter E.
Published: January 2017

The study of language network plasticity following left hemisphere stroke is foundational to the understanding of aphasia recovery and neural plasticity in general. Damage in different language nodes may influence whether local plasticity is possible and whether right hemisphere recruitment is beneficial. However, the relationships of both lesion size and location to patterns of remapping are poorly understood. In the context of a picture naming fMRI task, we tested whether lesion size and location relate to activity in surviving left hemisphere language nodes, as well as homotopic activity in the right hemisphere during covert name retrieval and overt name production. We found that lesion size was positively associated with greater right hemisphere activity during both phases of naming, a pattern that has frequently been suggested but has not previously been clearly demonstrated. During overt naming, lesions in the inferior frontal gyrus led to deactivation of contralateral frontal areas, while lesions in motor cortex led to increased right motor cortex activity. Furthermore, increased right motor activity related to better naming performance only when left motor cortex was lesioned, suggesting compensatory takeover of speech or language function by the homotopic node. These findings demonstrate that reorganization of language function, and the degree to which reorganization facilitates aphasia recovery, is dependent on the size and site of the lesion.
A Rare Case of Diffuse Hemangiomatosis of the Spleen with Splenic Rupture following Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Capilli F. , Weinbeck M. , Czerny M. , Siepe M. , Krauss T.
Published: January 2017

In this paper we present a rare case of splenic rupture that occurred after an open aortic valve replacement in a male patient with hemangiomatosis of the spleen and the liver. The patient was treated with an emergency splenectomy. He showed no other sings of associated systemic disorder, such as Klippel-trénaunay syndrome or Proteus syndrome.
Coexistence of Juvenile-Like Polyp with Neurofibroma at the Gastroesophageal Junction in an Adult with Neurofibromatosis Type I
Authors: Aijaz Namrah , Draganov Peter , Iqbal Atif , Liu Xiuli
Published: January 2017

A 23-year-old Caucasian male with Neurofibromatosis Type I (NF-I) was found to have a submucosal nodule at the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) and underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection. Histological examination revealed two different lesions within the nodule. The dominant lesion was inflammatory/hyperplastic (juvenile-like) polyp with obliterative vasculopathy while the smaller lesion was a neurofibroma. Gastric/GEJ lesions in NF-I are very rare with only seven cases reported in the literature. Three cases of juvenile-like gastric polyps (located in the antrum, greater curvature, and fundus) have been reported in adult NF-I patients. An inflammatory polyp associated with a neurofibroma has only been described once in the pediatric literature but never in an adult. Our case is unique from those previously described in the literature due to the age of the patient, the presence of 2 histologically separate lesions in one endoscopically evident lesion, and the presence of obliterative vasculopathy in the juvenile-like polyp.
Transfer of Allogeneic CD4+ T Cells Rescues CD8+ T Cells in Anti-PD-L1–Resistant Tumors Leading to Tumor Eradication
Authors: Arina Ainhoa , Karrison Theodore , Galka Eva , Schreiber Karin , Weichselbaum Ralph R. , Schreiber Hans
Published: January 2017

Adoptively transferred CD8+ T cells can stabilize the size of solid tumors over long periods of time by exclusively recognizing antigen cross-presented on tumor stroma. However, these tumors eventually escape T-cell–mediated growth control. The aim of this study was to eradicate such persistent cancers. In our model, the SIYRYYGL antigen is expressed by cancer cells that lack the MHC-I molecule Kb needed for direct presentation, but the antigen is picked up and cross-presented by tumor stroma. A single injection of antigen-specific 2C CD8+ T cells caused long-term inhibition of tumor growth, but without further intervention, tumors started to progress after approximately 3 months. Escape was associated with reduced numbers of circulating 2C cells. Tumor-infiltrating 2C cells produced significantly less TNFα and expressed more of the “exhaustion” markers PD-1 and Tim-3 than T cells from lymphoid organs. High-dose local ionizing radiation, depletion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells, infusions of additional 2C cells, and antibodies blocking PD-L1 did not prevent tumor escape. In contrast, adoptive transfer of allogeneic CD4+ T cells restored the numbers of circulating Ag-specific CD8+ T cells and their intratumoral function, resulting in tumor eradication. These CD4+ T cells had no antitumor effects in the absence of CD8+ T cells and recognized the alloantigen cross-presented on tumor stroma. CD4+ T cells might also be effective in cancer patients when PD-1/PD-L1 blockade does not rescue intratumoral CD8+ T-cell function and tumors persist. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(2); 127–36. ©2017 AACR.
Myocardial Tissue Engineering With Cells Derived From Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and a Native-Like, High-Resolution, 3-Dimensionally Printed Scaffold
Authors: Gao Ling , Kupfer Molly E. , Jung Jangwook P. , Yang Libang , Zhang Patrick , Da Sie Yong , Tran Quyen , Ajeti Visar , Freeman Brian T. , Fast Vladimir G. , Campagnola Paul J. , Ogle Brenda M. , Zhang Jianyi
Published: January 2017

Rationale:

Conventional 3-dimensional (3D) printing techniques cannot produce structures of the size at which individual cells interact.

Objective:

Here, we used multiphoton-excited 3D printing to generate a native-like extracellular matrix scaffold with submicron resolution and then seeded the scaffold with cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells that had been differentiated from human-induced pluripotent stem cells to generate a human-induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiac muscle patch (hCMP), which was subsequently evaluated in a murine model of myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results:

The scaffold was seeded with ≈50 000 human-induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells (in a 2:1:1 ratio) to generate the hCMP, which began generating calcium transients and beating synchronously within 1 day of seeding; the speeds of contraction and relaxation and the peak amplitudes of the calcium transients increased significantly over the next 7 days. When tested in mice with surgically induced myocardial infarction, measurements of cardiac function, infarct size, apoptosis, both vascular and arteriole density, and cell proliferation at week 4 after treatment were significantly better in animals treated with the hCMPs than in animals treated with cell-free scaffolds, and the rate of cell engraftment in hCMP-treated animals was 24.5% at week 1 and 11.2% at week 4.

Conclusions:

Thus, the novel multiphoton-excited 3D printing technique produces extracellular matrix–based scaffolds with exceptional resolution and fidelity, and hCMPs fabricated with these scaffolds may significantly improve recovery from ischemic myocardial injury.
The Limits of Compensation: Swiss Neutrality Policy in the Cold War
Authors: Fischer Thomas , Möckli Daniel
Published: January 2017

Switzerland was in a unique place among European countries after World War II. Although situated in the center of Europe, it had not been attacked by Nazi Germany and therefore emerged from the war with a strong economy, stable political institutions, and social cohesion. The experience of World War II forged a collective identity different from that in other continental states. The Swiss had a deep emotional commitment to neutrality and a conviction that autonomous defense would continue to be an effective security strategy after 1945. The Swiss government acknowledged the need for, and indeed was supportive of, the new United Nations collective security system. The Swiss were well aware of the benefits of Western collective defense and European integration as the Cold War divide came about. But Switzerland was willing to associate with these new multilateral governance structures only to the extent that they did not negatively affect neutrality or, in the case of European integration, Swiss economic interests.
Lukewarm Neutrality in a Cold War? The Case of Austria
Authors: Schmidl Erwin A.
Published: January 2017

Geographically, Austria's position during the Cold War differed significantly from that of Switzerland or Sweden, let alone Ireland. Austria, like Finland, was situated along the Iron Curtain. In 1945, Austria was divided between East and West, and the Soviet Union hoped that the Austrian Communists could quickly gain power by largely democratic means. This effort failed, however, when the Communists lost decisively in the November 1945 elections. Over the next decade, Austria remained under Soviet and Western military occupation. The formal adoption of a neutral status for Austria in May 1955, when the Austrian State Treaty was signed, was a compromise needed to ensure the departure of Soviet forces from Austria. Although some other orientation might have been preferred, neutrality over time became firmly engrained in Austria's collective identity.
The Non-Aligned Movement and the Cold War, 1961–1973
Authors: Lüthi Lorenz M.
Published: January 2017

The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) tried to transcend the Cold War, but the NAM ended up as one of the Cold War's chief victims. During the movement's first dozen years (1961–1973), four Cold War developments shaped its agenda and political orientation. East Germany's attempt to manipulate it started with the so-called construction of the Berlin Wall less than a month before the first NAM conference in Belgrade. Nuclear disarmament issues imposed themselves the day before that conference, with Nikita Khrushchev's sudden announcement that the USSR would resume nuclear testing. The war in the Middle East in June 1967 brought the NAM close to an association with the Soviet bloc—at least until the Soviet intervention in Czechoslovakia the following year. Finally, the overthrow of Cambodia's Prince Sihanouk in 1970 split the movement over the question of that country's standing. The NAM again moved closer to the Soviet camp once the movement decided in 1972 to award representation both to the exiled Sihanouk, who lived in Communist China and was allied to Pol Pot's Khmer Rouge, and to the Communist insurgents in South Vietnam.
The USSR and Permanent Neutrality in the Cold War
Authors: Mueller Wolfgang
Published: January 2017

The Soviet view of neutrality was shaped by political rather than legal considerations. Whether neutrality was rejected or promoted by the USSR and how it was defined depended on the concept's usefulness for Soviet foreign policy. To advance Soviet interests, a special doctrine of neutrality was created with obligations that Soviet leaders apparently believed would draw the permanently neutral states nearer to the Soviet bloc. This article, which relies on Russian and Western historical literature as well as archival documents, delineates the changing Soviet attitude during the Cold War toward permanent neutrality as well as toward four European neutrals (Austria, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland).