bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multicenter Study on Observation of Acute‐phase Responses After Infusion of Zoledronic Acid 5 mg in Chinese Women with Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Ding Yue , Zeng Jian‐Cheng , Yin Fei , Zhang Chun‐lin , Zhang Yan , Li Shi‐xun , Liu Xun , Zhang Chao , Xue Qing‐yun , Lin Hua , Pei Fu‐xing
Published: September 2017

Objective

It has been reported that acute‐phase reactions (APR) after infusion of 5 mg zoledronic acid for the first time is common. This study surveyed the incidence and characteristics of APR in Chinese postmenopausal women receiving 5 mg zoledronic acid intravenously for osteoporosis and to evaluate the efficacy of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAID) in preventing or alleviating APR following the first 5 mg zoledronic acid infusion.

Methods

A total of 2601 patients with an average age of 68.14 ± 9.89 years and a mean body mass index of 22.90 ± 3.24 kg/m2 from 62 centers in China were treated with 5 mg zoledronic acid intravenously for the first time. The incidence of fever and pain were observed in these patients, and the time of fever or pain onset and duration, and the intensity of fever and grade of pain were also recorded. The dosage, duration, and efficacy of NSAID and safety outcomes were also documented.

Results

At the end of the study, 18 patients are eliminated due to incomplete records of temperature. The incidence of fever was 28.65% (740/2583) within 7 days following zoledronic acid infusion; 98.34% (727/740) occurred at 1.03 ± 0.66 days after infusion and lasted 1.72 ± 0.93 days. A total of 456 (17.53%) patients had newly onset pain (312 of 1187, 26.28%) or experienced pain aggravation (144 of 1414, 10.18%), which mostly occurred within 3 days after zoledronic acid infusion. A total of 1246 (47.6%) patients had received NSAID for a median time of 2.63 ± 2.45 days. Using NSAID for at least 2 days could decrease body temperature by 0.54 ± 0.86°C, increase the percentage of pain‐free patients by 6.17%, and reduce the percentage of patients with moderate to severe pain by 8.7%.

Conclusions

Compared with Western populations, Chinese patients had a higher rate of fever and pain after their first zoledronic acid infusion. These symptoms were often mild to moderate in intensity and transient in duration. NSAID could effectively reduce the incidence and severity of such APR.
Circumferential Reconstruction of Subaxial Cervical and Cervicothoracic Spine by Simultaneously Combined Anterior–posterior Approaches in the Sitting Position
Authors: Han Yue , Ma Xin‐long , Hu Yong‐cheng , Miao Jun , Zhang Ji‐dong , Bai Jian‐qiang , Xia Qun
Published: September 2017

Objective

To introduce and analyze the feasibility of a new surgical strategy for circumferential reconstruction of subaxial cervical and cervicothoracic spine by simultaneously combined anterior–posterior approach in the sitting position.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed for seven patients who underwent the above surgical procedure between July 2011 and January 2015. Among the seven patients, there were six men and one woman, with an average age of 52 years (range, 36–79 years). Six patients were confirmed to have a lower subaxial cervical fracture and dislocation with a locked facet joint, and the other patient had an invasive tumor involving both anterior and posterior parts of vertebrae and lamina, detected by radiological examination. The levels involved for all patients were from C4 to T2. According to American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) classification, one case was class A, four were class B, and two were class D. The patients were restricted in the sitting position with traction and a halo in extension to immobilize the head during the operation. The simultaneously combined anterior–posterior operation for reduction, decompression or tumor resection and circumferential reconstruction was carried out.

Results

Both anterior and posterior procedures were successfully completed simultaneously in the sitting position in all cases. There were no perioperative complications. The average operative time was 175 ± 32 min (range, 120–240 min), and the mean blood loss was 430 ± 85 mL (range, 200–1100 mL). The patients were followed up for 35.8 months (range, 18–60 months). The symptom of neck pain improved distinctly and no evidence of implant failure was noted in any patients. Neurological status improvement was confirmed in six patients, who had suffered incomplete paralysis. The ASIA grade improved in five patients, and two cases had no change in grade.

Conclusions

The “sitting position” simultaneously combined anterior–posterior approach is safe and is superior to the traditional prone position and supine position, and the surgical results are satisfactory.
Recombination for innovation: performance outcomes from international partnerships in China
Authors: Collinson Simon , Liu Yipeng
Published: September 2017

This paper examines the relationship between different types of international partnerships and innovation performance. By drawing on a conceptual framework which outlines how new bundles of transferrable and nontransferrable ownership advantages are created from such partnerships (Collinson and Narula, ), we analyze empirical evidence from a large‐scale survey of 320 individual company responses from the China‐based operations of foreign multinational firms alongside in‐depth case studies. Our study reveals that different types of collaborative partnerships (cooperative vs. competitive) are associated with different innovation performance outcomes (product vs. process innovation). In addition, we find that a sustainable, reciprocal relationship between collaborative partners can generate superior innovation performance. Contextual factors including the role of government and industry characteristics have an important bearing on innovation performance in collaborative partnerships in China. We conclude with implications for researchers, managers, and policymakers.
Analysis of pediatric adverse reactions to transfusions
Authors: Vossoughi Sarah , Perez Gabriela , Whitaker Barbee I. , Fung Mark K. , Stotler Brie
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Children are known to be physiologically and biochemically different from adults. However, there are no multi‐institutional studies examining the differences in the frequency, type, and severity of transfusion reactions in pediatric versus adult patients. This study aims to characterize differences between pediatric and adult patients regarding adverse responses to transfusions.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This is a retrospective data analysis of nine children's hospitals and 35 adult hospitals from January 2009 through December 2015. Included were pediatric and adult patients who had a reported reaction to transfusion of any blood component. Rates are reported as per 100,000 transfusions for comparison between pediatric and adult patients.

RESULTS

Pediatric patients had an overall higher reaction rate compared to adults: 538 versus 252 per 100,000 transfusions, notably higher for red blood cell (577 vs. 278 per 100,000; p < 0.001) and platelet (833 vs. 358 per 100,000; p < 0.001) transfusions. Statistically higher rates of allergic reactions, febrile nonhemolytic reactions, and acute hemolytic reactions were observed in pediatric patients. Adults had a higher rate of delayed serologic transfusion reactions, delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions, and transfusion‐associated circulatory overload.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric patients had double the rate of transfusion reactions compared to adults. The nationally reported data on reaction rates are consistent with this study's findings in adults but much lower than the observed rates for pediatric patients. Future studies are needed to address the differences in reaction rates, particularly in allergic and febrile reactions, and to further address blood transfusion practices in the pediatric patient population.
How biologists pioneered preprints—with paper and postage
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: September 2017

A historian recounts NIH's 1960s pilot test of exchanging unreviewed manuscripts, and how publishers killed it.
Storing light in a tiny box
Authors: Waks Edo , Goldschmidt Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2017

A cavity containing rare-earth atoms in a glass stores light pulses for quantum memories
Industrializing animals
Big Chicken
Maryn McKenna
National Geographic, 2017. 400 pp.
Authors: Smith Tara C.
Published: September 2017

A journalist chronicles the coevolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the modern chicken
Emergence of Ceftolozane-Tazobactam-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa during Treatment Is Mediated by a Single AmpC Structural Mutation
Authors: MacVane Shawn H. , Pandey Ruchi , Steed Lisa L. , Kreiswirth Barry N. , Chen Liang
Published: September 2017

Ceftolozane-tazobactam is a cephalosporin-β-lactamase inhibitor combination that exhibits potent
in vitro
activity against
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, including strains that are resistant to other β-lactams. The emergence of ceftolozane-tazobactam resistance among clinical isolates of
P. aeruginosa
has rarely been described. Here we characterized ceftolozane-tazobactam-resistant
P. aeruginosa
strains recovered from a patient who was treated with this agent for 6 weeks for a recurrent wound infection. The results showed that the resistance was mediated by a single AmpC structural mutation.
Modulation of Neutrophil Extracellular Trap and Reactive Oxygen Species Release by Periodontal Bacteria
Authors: Hirschfeld Josefine , White Phillipa C. , Milward Michael R. , Cooper Paul R. , Chapple Iain L. C.
Published: September 2017

Oral bacteria are the main trigger for the development of periodontitis, and some species are known to modulate neutrophil function. This study aimed to explore the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), associated antimicrobial proteins, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to periodontal bacteria, as well as the underlying pathways. Isolated peripheral blood neutrophils were stimulated with 19 periodontal bacteria. NET and ROS release, as well as the expression of NET-bound antimicrobial proteins, elastase, myeloperoxidase, and cathepsin G, in response to these species was measured using fluorescence-based assays. NET and ROS release was monitored after the addition of NADP (NADPH) oxidase pathway modulators and inhibitors of Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Moreover, bacterial entrapment by NETs was visualized microscopically, and bacterial killing was assessed by bacterial culture. Certain microorganisms, e.g.,
Veillonella parvula
and
Streptococcus gordonii
, stimulated higher levels of ROS and NET release than others. NETs were found to entrap, but not kill, all periodontal bacteria tested. NADPH oxidase pathway modulators decreased ROS production but not NET production in response to the bacteria. Interestingly, TLR inhibitors did not impact ROS and NET release. These data suggest that the variability in the neutrophil response toward different bacteria may contribute to the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases by mechanisms such as bacterial avoidance of host responses and activation of neutrophils. Moreover, our results indicate that bacterium-stimulated NET release may arise in part via NADPH oxidase-independent mechanisms. The role of TLR signaling in bacterium-induced ROS and NET release needs to be further elucidated.
Bacterial Chat: Intestinal Metabolites and Signals in Host-Microbiota-Pathogen Interactions
Authors: Lustri Bruna C. , Sperandio Vanessa , Moreira Cristiano G.
Published: September 2017

Intestinal bacteria employ microbial metabolites from the microbiota and chemical signaling during cell-to-cell communication to regulate several cellular functions. Pathogenic bacteria are extremely efficient in orchestrating their response to these signals through complex signaling transduction systems. Precise coordination and interpretation of these multiple chemical cues is important within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Enteric foodborne pathogens, such as enterohemorrhagic
Escherichia coli
(EHEC) and
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium, or the surrogate murine infection model for EHEC,
Citrobacter rodentium
, are all examples of microorganisms that modulate the expression of their virulence repertoire in response to signals from the microbiota or the host, such as autoinducer-3 (AI-3), epinephrine (Epi), and norepinephrine (NE). The QseBC and QseEF two-component systems, shared by these pathogens, are involved in sensing these signals. We review how these signaling systems sense and relay these signals to drive bacterial gene expression; specifically, to modulate virulence. We also review how bacteria chat via chemical signals integrated with metabolite recognition and utilization to promote successful associations among enteric pathogens, the microbiota, and the host.
Why Antibiotic Treatment Is Not Enough for Sepsis Resolution: an Evaluation in an Experimental Animal Model
Authors: Halbach Jonathan L. , Wang Andrew W. , Hawisher Dennis , Cauvi David M. , Lizardo Radhames E. , Rosas Joseph , Reyes Tony , Escobedo Omar , Bickler Stephen W. , Coimbra Raul , De Maio Antonio
Published: September 2017

Sepsis remains a major health problem at the levels of mortality, morbidity, and economic burden to the health care system, a condition that is aggravated by the development of secondary conditions such as septic shock and multiple-organ failure. Our current understanding of the etiology of human sepsis has advanced, at least in part, due to the use of experimental animal models, particularly the model of cecum ligation and puncture (CLP). Antibiotic treatment has been commonly used in this model to closely mirror the treatment of human septic patients. However, whether their use may obscure the elucidation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the septic response is questionable. The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of antibiotic treatment in the outcome of a fulminant model of CLP. Various dosing strategies were used for the administration of imipenem, which has broad-spectrum coverage of enteric bacteria. No statistically significant differences in the survival of mice were observed between the different antibiotic dosing strategies and no treatment, suggesting that live bacteria may not be the only factor inducing septic shock. To further investigate this hypothesis, mice were challenged with sterilized or unsterilized cecal contents. We found that exposure of mice to sterilized cecal contents also resulted in a high mortality rate. Therefore, it is possible that bacterial debris, apart from bacterial proliferation, triggers a septic response and contributes to mortality in this model, suggesting that additional factors are involved in the development of septic shock.
Development of an intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula after venous sinus stenting for idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Buell Thomas J , Raper Daniel M , Ding Dale , Chen Ching-Jen , Liu Kenneth C
Published: September 2017

We report a case in which an intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) developed after endovascular treatment of a patient with idiopathic intracranial hypertension with venous sinus stenting (VSS). The pathogenesis may involve hemodynamic alterations secondary to increased poststenting venous sinus pressure, which may cause new arterial ingrowth into the fistulous sinus wall without capillary interposition. Despite administration of dual antiplatelet therapy, there may also be subclinical cortical vein thrombosis that contributed to DAVF formation. In addition to the aforementioned mechanisms, increased inflammation induced by VSS may upregulate vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor expression and also promote DAVF pathogenesis. Since VSS has been used to obliterate DAVFs, DAVF formation after VSS may seem counterintuitive. Previous stents have generally been closed cell, stainless steel designs used to maximize radial compression of the fistulous sinus wall. In contrast, our patient’s stent was an open cell, self-expandable nitinol design (Protégé Everflex). Neurointerventionalists should be aware of this potential, although rare complication of DAVF formation after VSS.
Randomised clinical trial evaluating the effect of different timing and number of fixed timed artificial inseminations, following a seven‐day progesterone‐based protocol, on pregnancy outcomes in UK dairy heifers
Authors: Walsh John Paul , Coates Amy , Lima Fabio , Smith Rob , Oikonomou Georgios
Published: September 2017

The objective of this study was to determine the effect on pregnancy outcome of either inseminating heifers twice (at 48 and 72 hours after withdrawal of a controlled internal drug release insert (CIDR) containing progesterone) or once (56 hours after CIDR withdrawal) following a seven‐day CIDR synchronisation protocol. Dairy heifers (n=267) from five farms, with an age range of 388–736 days, were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups (group A heifers were inseminated twice; group B heifers were inseminated once). Both groups received a CIDR on day (D) 0 and an intramuscular injection of d‐cloprostenol on D6; the CIDR was withdrawn on D7. Measurements of withers height, body condition score and hearth girth (used to estimate weight) were taken on D0. The diameter of the largest follicles and corpora lutea was recorded on both D0 and D6. Data were analysed with the use of multivariable logistic regression modelling. Treatment group and farm were not statistically significantly associated with pregnancy per treatment (P/T). Age and dominant follicle size on D6 were significantly associated with P/T. Heifers with the largest dominant follicle sizes (16–22 mm) were 5.54 times less likely to be pregnant than those heifers with the smallest dominant follicles (8–10 mm) on D6. It was shown that the cost associated with inseminating heifers twice after a seven‐day CIDR synchronisation protocol is not justified.
The Saint-Jude landslide of 10 May 2010, Quebec, Canada: Investigation and characterization of the landslide and its failure mechanism
Authors: Locat Ariane , Locat Pascal , Demers Denis , Leroueil Serge , Robitaille Denis , Lefebvre Guy
Published: September 2017

A landslide occurred on 10 May 2010, along the Salvail River, in the municipality of Saint-Jude, Quebec. Debris of the landslide was formed of clay having horst and graben shapes, typical of spreads in sensitive clays. A detailed investigation was carried out by the Ministère des Transports, de la Mobilité durable et de l’électrification des transports du Québec, in collaboration with Université Laval, with the objective of characterizing this landslide, determining the causes, and learning about its failure mechanism. The soil involved was a firm, grey, sensitive, lightly overconsolidated clay with some silt. Data from piezometers installed near the landslide indicated artesian conditions underneath the Salvail River. Cone penetration tests allowed the location of two failure surface levels: the first one starting 2.5 m below the initial river bed, extending horizontally up to 125 m, and a second one 10 m higher, reaching the backscarp. Investigation of the debris with onsite measurements, light detector and ranging surveys, cone penetration tests, and boreholes allowed a detailed geotechnical and morphological analysis of the debris and reconstitution of the dislocation mechanism of this complex spread.
Balancing selection on the number of repeats in the ribosomal intergenic spacer present in naturally occurring yellow perch (Perca flavescens) populations
Authors: Bélanger-Lépine Frédérique , Leung Christelle , Glémet Hélène , Angers Bernard
Published: September 2017

The ribosomal intergenic spacer (IGS), responsible for the rate of transcription of rRNA genes, is associated with the growth and fecundity of individuals. A previous study of IGS length variants in a yellow perch (Perca flavescens) population revealed the presence of two predominant alleles differing by 1 kb due to variation in the number of repeat units. This study aims to assess whether length variation of IGS is the result of selection in natural populations. Length variation of IGS and 11 neutral microsatellite loci were assessed in geographically distant yellow perch populations. Most populations displayed the very same IGS alleles; they did not differ in frequencies among populations and the FST was not significantly different from zero. In contrast, diversity at microsatellite loci was high and differed among populations (FST = 0.18). Selection test based on FST identified IGS as a significant outlier from neutral expectations for population differentiation. Heterozygote excess was also detected in one specific cohort, suggesting temporal variation in the selection regime. While the exact mechanism remains to be specified, together the results of this study support the contention that balancing selection is acting to maintain two distinct IGS alleles in natural fish populations.
Feedback Control for Structural Health Monitoring in a Smart Aggregate Based Sensor Network
Authors: Chen Jian , Li Peng , Song Gangbing , Ren Zhang , Tan Yu , Zheng Yongjun
Published: September 2017

The concept of smart aggregates, a distributed intelligent multi-purpose sensor network for civil structures, has been implemented to address three important issues including early-age concrete strength monitoring, impact detection and evaluation, and structural health monitoring. This paper presents mainly the employment of smart aggregates' active sensing property to form feedback in a sensor network to reduce damage-location detection time for lower power cost. Firstly, the concept of smart aggregates and the principle of a smart-aggregate-based sensor network are outlined. Next, the data pretreatment methods, including the sensor observation estimation model and the wavelet-packet-based signal processing algorithm, are proposed. A crucial concept using the damage index is also introduced. Moreover, the concept of the geometry structure matching method with the knowledge of an expert system is presented to determine which sensor is the optimal actuator. Finally, the data pretreatment algorithm and the geometry structure matching method are evaluated for a two-story concrete frame instrumented with smart aggregates as a testing object by means of actual experiments. The testing results demonstrate that the proposed algorithms are feasible and perform well in selecting optimal actuators of the sensor network for detecting damage locations.
Ubiquitous Healthcare — Do the Health and Information Technology Sectors Converge?
Authors: Eidam Sebastian , Redenz Anja , Sonius David , Stein Nicole vom
Published: September 2017

Processes of convergence strongly influence the development of several industries and modern technologies as the example of convergence of the computer and telecommunication industry into one sector of information and communications technology (ICT) shows. These convergences are a substantial uncertainty for established companies in both established areas. Ubiquitous healthcare is a current trend in health technology which might be the expression of such a convergence. Therefore, the question whether this trend is an expression of an overall industry convergence between the ICT and the health sector is investigated in this study. Publication and patent data-based analyses are carried out for that purpose. An industry/technology sector classification as well as an IPC-co-classification analysis reveal clear signs of convergence between the ICT and health sector on the scientific and technology level. The results are critically discussed and theoretical and practical implications are given.
Source rock evaluation of Middle Eocene–Early Miocene mudstones from the NE margin of the Black Sea
Authors: Vincent Stephen J. , Kaye Matthew N. D.
Published: September 2017

This study comprises the source rock evaluation of 122 Late Middle Eocene–Early Miocene mudstones from the NE margin of the Black Sea. Samples are immature to early mature. The majority of samples have moderate to very good organic richness, poor to moderate source potential and a hydrogen-deficient to gas-prone source rock quality. However, a significant proportion of the samples have good to excellent organic richness and source potential, and an oil- and gas-prone quality derived from amorphous-rich kerogens. These samples would generate significant amounts of oil and associated gas where buried to peak maturity. They come from the lowermost (Rupelian) part of the Maykop Series and the late Bartonian–early Priabonian Kuma Suite or its stratigraphic equivalents. The Rupelian source-rock interval(s) in west Georgia is at least 60 m thick and potentially as much as 200 m thick. It has a source potential index (SPI) of 0.7–2.5 t HC m
−2
. The thickness of the Kuma Suite-equivalent source rock interval south of the western Greater Caucasus is unconstrained. Maykop Series source rocks occur in the Black Sea Basin. Prospective Kuma Suite-equivalent samples on both the northern and southern margins of the Black Sea imply that similar sediments may also be present in the basin.
An Accuracy Tunable Non-Boolean Co-Processor Using Coupled Nano-Oscillators
Authors: Gala Neel , Krithivasan Sarada , Tsai Wei-Yu , Li Xueqing , Narayanan Vijaykrishnan , Kamakoti V.
Published: September 2017

As we enter an era witnessing the closer end of Dennard scaling, where further reduction in power supply-voltage to reduce power consumption becomes more challenging in conventional systems, a goal of developing a system capable of performing large computations with minimal area and power overheads needs more optimization aspects. A rigorous exploration of alternate computing techniques, which can mitigate the limitations of Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology scaling and conventional Boolean systems, is imperative. Reflecting on these lines of thought, in this article we explore the potential of non-Boolean computing employing nano-oscillators for performing varied functions. We use a two coupled nano-oscillator as our basic computational model and propose an architecture for a non-Boolean coupled oscillator based co-processor capable of executing certain functions that are commonly used across a variety of approximate application domains. The proposed architecture includes an accuracy tunable knob, which can be tuned by the programmer at runtime. The functionality of the proposed co-processor is verified using a soft coupled oscillator model based on Kuramoto oscillators. The article also demonstrates how real-world applications such as Vector Quantization, Digit Recognition, Structural Health Monitoring, and the like, can be deployed on the proposed model. The proposed co-processor architecture is generic in nature and can be implemented using any of the existing modern day nano-oscillator technologies such as Resonant Body Transistors (RBTs), Spin-Torque Nano-Oscillators (STNOs), and Metal-Insulator Transition (MITs) . In this article, we perform a validation of the proposed architecture using the HyperField Effect Transistor (FET) technology-based coupled oscillators, which provide improvements of up to 3.5× increase in clock speed and up to 10.75× and 14.12× reduction in area and power consumption, respectively, as compared to a conventional Boolean CMOS accelerator executing the same functions.
Efficient Free Space Reclamation in WAFL
Authors: Kesavan Ram , Singh Rohit , Grusecki Travis , Patel Yuvraj
Published: September 2017

NetApp
®
WAFL
®
is a transactional file system that uses the copy-on-write mechanism to support fast write performance and efficient snapshot creation. However, copy-on-write increases the demand on the file system to find free blocks quickly, which makes rapid free space reclamation essential. Inability to find free blocks quickly may impede allocations for incoming writes. Efficiency is also important, because the task of reclaiming free space may consume CPU and other resources at the expense of client operations. In this article, we describe the evolution (over more than a decade) of the WAFL algorithms and data structures for reclaiming space with minimal impact to the overall performance of the storage appliance.
Generation and Evolution of Neural Cell Types and Circuits: Insights from the Drosophila Visual System
Authors: Perry Michael , Konstantinides Nikos , Pinto-Teixeira Filipe , Desplan Claude
Published: September 2017

The Drosophila visual system has become a premier model for probing how neural diversity is generated during development. Recent work has provided deeper insight into the elaborate mechanisms that control the range of types and numbers of neurons produced, which neurons survive, and how they interact. These processes drive visual function and influence behavioral preferences. Other studies are beginning to provide insight into how neuronal diversity evolved in insects by adding new cell types and modifying neural circuits. Some of the most powerful comparisons have been those made to the Drosophila visual system, where a deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms allows for the generation of hypotheses about the evolution of neural anatomy and function. The evolution of new neural types contributes additional complexity to the brain and poses intriguing questions about how new neurons interact with existing circuitry. We explore how such individual changes in a variety of species might play a role over evolutionary timescales. Lessons learned from the fly visual system apply to other neural systems, including the fly central brain, where decisions are made and memories are stored.
A Satellite-Based Lagrangian View on Phytoplankton Dynamics
Authors: Lehahn Yoav , d'Ovidio Francesco , Koren Ilan
Published: September 2017

The well-lit upper layer of the open ocean is a dynamical environment that hosts approximately half of global primary production. In the remote parts of this environment, distant from the coast and from the seabed, there is no obvious spatially fixed reference frame for describing the dynamics of the microscopic drifting organisms responsible for this immense production of organic matter—the phytoplankton. Thus, a natural perspective for studying phytoplankton dynamics is to follow the trajectories of water parcels in which the organisms are embedded. With the advent of satellite oceanography, this Lagrangian perspective has provided valuable information on different aspects of phytoplankton dynamics, including bloom initiation and termination, spatial distribution patterns, biodiversity, export of carbon to the deep ocean, and, more recently, bottom-up mechanisms that affect the distribution and behavior of higher-trophic-level organisms. Upcoming submesoscale-resolving satellite observations and swarms of autonomous platforms open the way to the integration of vertical dynamics into the Lagrangian view of phytoplankton dynamics.
Relationship between rs854560PON1Gene Polymorphism and Tobacco Smoking with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Iwanicka Joanna , Iwanicki Tomasz , Niemiec Paweł , Nowak Tomasz , Krauze Jolanta , Grzeszczak Władysław , Górczyńska-Kosiorz Sylwia , Ochalska-Tyka Anna , Żak Iwona
Published: September 2017

Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is the antioxidant marker of high-density lipoproteins protecting against atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD) phenotype. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether thePON1gene rs854560 polymorphism (163T>A) is associated with CAD in Polish population. rs854560 was genotyped in 494 subjects: 248 patients with premature CAD and 246 blood donors as a control. We found that the risk of CAD was significantly higher in TT homozygotes than in A allele carriers (OR = 1.87,p=0.041). The synergistic effect between the TT genotype and cigarette smoking was observed (SIM = 9.81; SI = 14.70). The relative increase in risk from interaction between factors was over 37 (RERI = 36.13). ThePON1polymorphism did not modulate the risk of CAD in response to exposure to other traditional risk factors. In conclusion, the rs854560 polymorphism may modulate the risk of CAD in response to cigarette smoking in Polish population. Carriers of TT genotype seem to be particularly at risk of CAD, when exposed to cigarette smoking.
New Scenarios of Chagas Disease Transmission in Northern Colombia
Authors: Tovar Acero Catalina , Negrete Peñata Jorge , González Camila , León Cielo , Ortiz Mario , Chacón Pacheco Julio , Monterrosa Elkin , Luna Abraham , Ricardo Caldera Dina , Espitia-Pérez Lyda
Published: September 2017

Chagas disease (CD) is a systemic parasitic infection caused by the flagellated form of Trypanosoma cruzi. Córdoba department, located in the Colombian Caribbean Coast, was not considered as a region at risk of T. cruzi transmission. In this article, we describe the first acute CD case in Salitral village in Sahagún, Córdoba, confirmed by microscopy and serological tests. Our results draw attention to a new scenario of transmission of acute CD in nonendemic areas of Colombia and highlight the need to include CD in the differential diagnosis of febrile syndromes in this region.
Separation of the Climatic and Land Cover Impacts on the Flow Regime Changes in Two Watersheds of Northeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yang Linshan , Feng Qi , Yin Zhenliang , Deo Ravinesh C. , Wen Xiaohu , Si Jianhua , Li Changbin
Published: September 2017

Assessment of the effects of climate change and land use/cover change (LUCC) on the flow regimes in watershed regions is a fundamental research need in terms of the sustainable water resources management and ecosocial developments. In this study, a statistical and modeling integrated method utilizing the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) has been adopted in two watersheds of northeastern Tibetan Plateau to separate the individual impacts of climate and LUCC on the flow regime metrics. The integrated effects of both LUCC and climate change have led to an increase in the annual streamflow in the Yingluoxia catchment (YLC) region and a decline in the Minxian catchment (MXC) region by 3.2% and 4.3% of their total streamflow, respectively. Climate change has shown an increase in streamflow in YLC and a decline in MXC region, occupying 107.3% and 93.75% of the total streamflow changes, respectively, a reflection of climatic latitude effect on streamflow. It is thus construed that the climatic factors contribute to more significant influence than LUCC on the magnitude, variability, duration, and component of the flow regimes, implying that the climate certainly dominates the flow regime changes in northeastern Tibetan Plateau.
Haptoglobin Genotype and Outcome after Subarachnoid Haemorrhage: New Insights from a Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Gaastra Ben , Glazier James , Bulters Diederik , Galea Ian
Published: September 2017

Haptoglobin (Hp) is a plasma protein involved in clearing extracellular haemoglobin and regulating inflammation; it exists as two genetic variants (Hp1 and Hp2). In a meta‐analysis of six published studies, we confirm that Hp genotype affects short‐term outcome (cerebral vasospasm and/or delayed cerebral ischemia) after subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) but not long‐term outcome (Glasgow Outcome Score and modified Rankin Scale between one and three months). A closer examination of the heterozygous group revealed that the short‐term outcome of Hp2‐1 individuals clustered with that of Hp1‐1 and not Hp2‐2, suggesting that the presence of one Hp1 allele was sufficient to confer protection. Since the presence of the Hp dimer is the only common feature between Hp1‐1 and Hp2‐1 individuals, the absence of this Hp moiety is most likely to underlie vasospasm in Hp2‐2 individuals. These results have implications for prognosis after SAH and will inform further research into Hp‐based mechanism of action and treatment.
Specific Characteristics of Patients with Advanced Genitourinary Cancer Receiving Specialized Inpatient Palliative Care
Authors: Iversen Katharina , Oechsle Karin , Oing Christoph , Bokemeyer Carsten , Seidel Christoph
Published: September 2017

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the characteristics for genitourinary cancer (GUC) patients receiving specialized inpatient palliative care (SIPC) with those of a general cohort. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 151 GUC patients receiving SIPC from 2008 to 2014 regarding symptoms, problems, treatment, and outcome. These characteristics were compared with a general cohort of 1,285 patients with various diseases who received SIPC (German Hospice and Palliative care investigation: HOPE). Results: Patients suffering from advanced prostate cancer (n = 59), renal cell cancer (n = 37), urothelial cancer (n = 36), urothelial accompanied by prostate cancer (n = 11), germ cell cancer (n = 7), and penile squamous cell cancer (n = 1) were included in the study. Most frequent symptoms and problems at admission were weakness (93%), the need for assistance with activities of daily living (85%), loss of appetite (81%), and organization of care (80%). Symptoms were more frequent in the GUC than in the general cohort during treatment, in particular with regards to pain (p < 0.001), tension (p < 0.001), nausea (p = 0.001), and vomiting (p < 0.001). GUC patients received significantly more opioids with 89% compared to the general cohort with 72% (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Symptom burden of GUC patients, in particular pain, tension, and nausea was higher compared to the general cohort, and analgesic treatment played an important role in achieving control of symptoms.
The Revised International Staging System Compared to the Classical International Staging System Better Discriminates Risk Groups among Transplant-Ineligible Multiple Myeloma Patients
Authors: Bila Jelena , Jelicic Jelena , Dencic Fekete Marija , Trajkovic Goran , Sretenovic Aleksandra , Perunicic Jovanovic Maja , Antic Darko , Mihaljevic Biljana
Published: September 2017

Background: The Revised International Staging System (R-ISS) has recently been introduced as a comprehensive prognostic score for multiple myeloma (MM). Validation of the R-ISS in patients treated outside of clinical trials is the focus of current investigations. The aim of this study was to test the prognostic role of the R-ISS in MM patients ineligible for autologous stem cell transplantation. Patients and Methods: A total of 102 newly diagnosed MM patients were analyzed. All patients were initially treated with thalidomide-based combinations. Results: An overall response rate was achieved in 77.4% patients. Both the International Staging System (ISS) and the R-ISS influenced the event-free survival and the overall survival (OS). However, the ISS was unable to discriminate patients in stages ISS1 and ISS2 regarding OS. On the contrary, the R-ISS clearly differentiated risk categories regarding OS and provided an improved discriminative power of 6.3% compared to the ISS. Furthermore, among the parameters that were significant in univariate analysis (presence of renal impairment, anemia, platelet count < 130 × 109/l, and R-ISS), the multivariate model pointed to the R-ISS (p = 0.001) as the most important parameter influencing OS. Conclusion: The R-ISS represents a useful tool for risk stratification of transplant-ineligible MM patients and should be considered as a prognostic index in daily clinical practice.
Detection of the Peanut Allergens Ara h 2 and Ara h 6 in Human Breast Milk: Development of 2 Sensitive and Specific Sandwich ELISA Assays
Authors: Schocker Frauke , Scharf Alexandra , Kull Skadi , Jappe Uta
Published: September 2017

Background: Little is known about breast milk as a vehicle for tolerance development or sensitization to peanuts very early in life. Thus, well-characterized and highly sensitive detection systems for the reliable determination of peanut allergens in breast milk are mandatory. Methods: For the quantification of the marker allergens Ara h 2 and Ara h 6 in the low nanogram per milliliter range in breast milk samples of a German cohort, sensitive and highly specific sandwich ELISAs were optimized and validated. Results: The Ara h 2 ELISA revealed a limit of detection (LOD) of 1.3 ng Ara h 2/mL and a quantification range of 2.3-250 ng/mL, the Ara h 6 ELISA showed an LOD of 0.7 ng/mL and a working range of 1.1-14.4 ng/mL. The assays showed no relevant cross-reactivity against other potentially cross-reactive legume, seed, and tree nut extracts (<0.01%, except for Ara h 1 in the Ara h 2 ELISA <0.1%). Ara h 2 was detectable in breast milk samples from 14/40 (35%) of the participants in concentrations from 2.3 to 184 ng/mL, Ara h 6 appeared in 9/40 (22.5%) of the lactating mothers between 1.1 and 9.7 ng/mL, and 1 highly positive sample with 79 ng/mL. Both allergens appeared at the same time points, but Ara h 6 in lower concentrations than Ara h 2. Conclusions: Sensitive and specific diagnostic tools for the determination of Ara h 2 and Ara h 6 in human breast milk were established. The kinetics of secreted Ara h 2 and Ara h 6 seem to be similar but with a difference in concentration. Follow-up investigations on their tolerogenic or sensitizing properties in breast milk become now accessible.
Type 2 Diabetes and Bacteremia
Authors: Sato Junko , Kanazawa Akio , Watada Hirotaka
Published: September 2017

Background: A high proportion of type 2 diabetes cases are associated with host genetic and environmental factors. During the past decade, microorganisms that inhabit the gut have emerged as contributors to the pathogenesis of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Therefore, manipulation of the human gut microbiota will provide essential clues regarding new therapeutic targets for diabetes. Summary: Several studies have established the presence of gut dysbiosis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, even though there are some differences among the studies that could be explained by differences in ethnicity, diet, and methodology. Gut dysbiosis affects the quality and quantity of short-chain fatty acids and secondary bile acids that act as signaling molecules in energy, glucose, and lipid metabolism. In addition, gut dysbiosis affect intestinal permeability. In particular, a high-fat diet can lead to changes in the gut microbiota that strongly reduce intestinal permeability due to the malfunction of tight junction proteins, such as occludin and ZO-1 [1]. The formation of leaky gut results in increased plasma levels of lipopolysaccharide, which activate Toll-like receptor 4 and result in innate and adaptive immune responses [2]. Key messages: Gut dysbiosis play an important role in the pathogenesis of obesity and diabetes, for example, via chronic low-grade inflammation. Normalizing gut dysbiosis could be a new approach to overcome diseases of insulin resistance, such as diabetes mellitus.
Long-Term Outcomes of Pediatric Renovascular Hypertension
Authors: Chung Hyun , Lee Jae Hwan , Park Eujin , Hyun Hyesun , Ahn Yo Han , Jae Hwan Jun , Kim Gi Beom , Ha Il Soo , Cheong Hae Il , Kang Hee Gyung
Published: September 2017

Background/Aims: Renovascular hypertension (RVHT) is an important cause of childhood hypertension. This study evaluated the clinical characteristics and outcomes of Korean children with RVHT. Methods: Children treated for RVHT between 2000 and 2015 at our center were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Forty-six children were followed for a median of 6.5 (0.66-27.23) years. Forty-five percutaneous transluminal angioplasties (PTAs) were performed in 32 children. At the last visit, clinical benefit was observed in 53.3% of children. Patients with comorbid cerebrovascular disease (CVD) showed less favorable long-term outcomes after PTA (clinical benefit in 41.7% vs. 61.1% in others) and higher restenosis rates (50% vs. 31.6% in others). Surgical procedures (bypass or nephrectomy) were performed in 8 patients. After surgery, blood pressure was normalized in 2 patients, improved in 3 patients, and unchanged in the remaining patients. Between PTA group (n=21) and medication group (n=14), percentage of atrophic kidneys became higher after follow-up period in medication group than in PTA group (60.0% vs. 26.1%, P=0.037). Conclusion: Aggressive treatment of pediatric RVHT yielded fair outcomes in our cohort. CVD comorbidity was associated with relatively poor PTA outcomes. To confirm our findings, larger cohort studies with a longer follow-up period are warranted.
КОНЦЕПТИ КОМУНІКАТИВНОГО РЕСУРСУ У ХВОРИХ НА РЕКУРЕНТНИЙ ДЕПРЕСИВНИЙ РОЗЛАД ТА ЇХ РЕФЕРЕНТНИХ РОДИЧІВ
Authors: Pshuk N. H. , Kaminska A. O.
Published: September 2017

Мета – визначення особливостей комунікативних ресурсів у хворих на рекурентний депресивний розлад (РДР) та їх референтних родичів в контексті їх соціального функціонування.Матеріали і методи. В якості психодіагностичного інструментарію дослідження використані методика Дж. Гілфорда та М. Саллівена (російськомовна адаптація Михайлової Є. С.) та методика вимірювання емоційної емпатії А. Mehrabian. За умови інформованої згоди було обстежено 45 сімей, в яких проживає хворий на РДР, та, відповідно, 45 пацієнтів. Контрольну групу склали 35 сімей, в яких немає психічно хворих.Результати. Показники емпатичної та аффіліативної тенденцій були достовірно нижчими, а за шкалою «чутливість до знехтування» – достовірно вищими в групі хворих на РДР, порівняно з респондентами контрольної групи (р<0,001). Композитне оцінювання рівня соціального інтелекту свідчить про те, що у референтних родичів пацієнтів з РДР адаптаційні ресурси особистості в міжособистісній взаємодії знижені (РДР (3,66±0,2), КГ (4,43±0,6) P<0,05).Висновки. 1. Труднощі у розумінні та прогнозуванні поведінки людей пов’язані з особливостями комунікативного ресурсу особистості, до концептів якого можна віднести емпатично-аффіліативний статус та рівень соціального інтелекту.2. У пацієнтів з РДР виявлено знижену здатність до співпереживання ситуації, зменшення потреби в активному спілкуванні, звуження кола інтересів, погіршення міжособистісної комунікації. На фоні недостатньо розвинених емпатично-аффіліативних тенденцій відзначається підвищений рівень сенситивності до знехтування у спілкуванні, що може бути предиктором формування дезадаптивних поведінкових паттернів.3. Наявність низького комунікативного ресурсу як у хворих з РДР, так і у їх референтних родичів значно ускладнює стосунки у сім’ях хворих, знижує можливості соціальної адаптації членів комунікативного процесу та порушує гомеостаз сімейної системи, що необхідно враховувати при створенні відповідних психоосвітніх та психокорекційних програм.