bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Unsteady Flow Behaviour on a Wind Turbine Using a BEM and a RANSE Method
Authors: Alesbe Israa , Abdel-Maksoud Moustafa , Aljabair Sattar
Published: October 2016

Analyses of the unsteady flow behaviour of a 5 MW horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT) rotor (Case I) and a rotor with tower (Case II) are carried out using a panel method and a RANSE method. The panel method calculations are obtained by applying the in-house boundary element method (BEM) panMARE code, which is based on the potential flow theory. The BEM is a three-dimensional first-order panel method which can be used for investigating various steady and unsteady flow problems. Viscous flow simulations are carried out by using the RANSE solver ANSYS CFX 14.5. The results of Case I allow for the calculation of the global integral values of the torque and the thrust and include detailed information on the local flow field, such as the pressure distribution on the blade sections and the streamlines. The calculated pressure distribution by the BEM is compared with the corresponding values obtained by the RANSE solver. The tower geometry is considered in the simulation in Case II, so the unsteady forces due to the interaction between the tower and the rotor blades can be calculated. The application of viscous and inviscid flow methods to predict the forces on the HAWT allows for the evaluation of the viscous effects on the calculated HAWT flows.
Electrospun Chitosan/Polyethylene Oxide Nanofibrous Scaffolds with Potential Antibacterial Wound Dressing Applications
Authors: Yuan Tony T. , Jenkins Phillip M. , DiGeorge Foushee Ann Marie , Jockheck-Clark Angela R. , Stahl Jonathan M.
Published: October 2016

Electrospinning is a simple and versatile technique for the fabrication of nonwoven fibrous materials for biomedical applications. In the present study, chitosan (CS) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) nanofibrous scaffolds were successfully prepared using three different CS/PEO mass ratios and then evaluated for their physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. Scaffold morphologies were observed by scanning electron microscopy, which showed decreasing fiber diameters with increasing CS content. Higher CS concentrations also correlated with increased tensile strength and decreased elasticity of the scaffold. Degradation studies demonstrated that PEO was solubilized from the scaffold within the first six hours, followed by CS. This profile was unaffected by changes in the CS/PEO ratio or the pH of the media. Only the 2 : 1 CS/PEO scaffold demonstrated superior inhibition of both growth and attachment of Staphylococcus aureus. Finally, all scaffolds exhibited little impact on the proliferation of murine fibroblast monolayers. These data demonstrate that the 2 : 1 CS/PEO scaffold is a promising candidate for wound dressing applications due to its excellent antibacterial characteristics and biocompatibility.
Molecular Detection of Torque Teno Sus Virus and Coinfection with African Swine Fever Virus in Blood Samples of Pigs from Some Slaughterhouses in Nigeria
Authors: Luka Pam D. , Erume Joseph , Yakubu Bitrus , Owolodun Olajide A. , Shamaki David , Mwiine Frank N.
Published: October 2016

Torque teno sus virus 1 (TTSuV1a/TTSuV1b) infection is present in pig herds worldwide. This study investigated the prevalence of TTSuV1a/TTSuV1b infections in domestic pigs from some slaughterhouses in Nigeria as well as coinfection with African swine fever virus (ASFV) and described the phylogeny in relation to global strains. One hundred and eighty-one (181) blood samples from four slaughterhouses were used for the study and viral nucleic acid detection was carried out by PCR. Comparative sequence analysis was carried out to infer phylogeny. The overall prevalence of TTSuV1a/b was 17.7%. Prevalence of individual genotypes was 10.5% and 7.2% for TTSuV1a and TTSuV1b, respectively. Coinfection of ASFV/TTSuV1a/b was 7.7% while that of TTSuV1a and TTSuV1b was 1.7%. ASFV alone was detected in 11.91% of the total samples. The Nigerian TTSuV1a and TTSuV1b shared a sequence identity of 91–100% and 95–100%, respectively, among each other. The ASFV sequences were 100% identical to members of genotype 1. This is the first report on the presence of TTSuV1a/b in domestic pigs in Nigeria and coinfection with ASFV. Although the prevalence of TTSuV1a/b in Nigeria was low, we recommend further studies to establish the trend and possible role in the pathogenesis of ASFV.
The Feasibility of Health Trainer Improved Patient Self-Management in Patients with Low Health Literacy and Poorly Controlled Diabetes: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Protheroe Joanne , Rathod Trishna , Bartlam Bernadette , Rowlands Gillian , Richardson Gerry , Reeves David
Published: October 2016

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is most prevalent in deprived communities and patients with low health literacy have worse glycaemic control and higher rates of diabetic complications. However, recruitment from this patient population into intervention trials is highly challenging. We conducted a study to explore the feasibility of recruitment and to assess the effect of a lay health trainer intervention, in patients with low health literacy and poorly controlled diabetes from a socioeconomically disadvantaged population, compared with usual care. Methods. A pilot RCT comparing the LHT intervention with usual care. Patients with HbA1c > 7.5 (58 mmol/mol) were recruited. Baseline and 7-month outcome data were entered directly onto a laptop to reduce patient burden. Results. 76 patients were recruited; 60.5% had low health literacy and 75% were from the most deprived areas of England. Participants in the LHT arm had significantly improved mental health (p=0.049) and illness perception (p=0.040). The intervention was associated with lower resource use, better patient self-care management, and better QALY profile at 7-month follow-up. Conclusion. This study describes successful recruitment strategies for hard-to-reach populations. Further research is warranted for this cost-effective, relatively low-cost intervention for a population currently suffering a disproportionate burden of diabetes, to demonstrate its sustained impact on treatment effects, health, and health inequalities.
Common Fixed Point Results for Six Mappings via Integral Contractions with Applications
Authors: Bahadur Zada Mian , Sarwar Muhammad , Mehmood Nayyar
Published: October 2016

Common fixed point theorems for six self-mappings under integral type inequality satisfying (E.A) and (CLR) properties in the context of complex valued metric space (not necessarily complete) are established. The derived results are new even for ordinary metric spaces. We prove existence result for optimal unique solution of the system of functional equations used in dynamical programming with complex domain.
Adenomatous Polyps in Adolescent Girl and Boy: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Vahedi Larijani Laleh , Ghasemi Maryam , Karami Hassan
Published: October 2016

A polyp is defined as a mass of the mucosal surface that protrudes into the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract. Neoplastic epithelial polyps are classified histologically as either benign adenoma or malignant carcinoma. The colonic polyps that most commonly present in children occur sporadically and individually and are of the juvenile type; they are most frequently associated with painless rectal hemorrhage (which is the most common symptom). Adenomatous polyps are similar to other nontumoral polyps, and it is very rare for children to have symptoms other than rectal bleeding. This report describes two rare cases of polyps in pediatric patients. An 11-year-old girl presented with tubulovillous adenoma and a 13-year-old boy with tubular adenoma; both patients complained of rectal hemorrhage as well as anemia and abdominal pain. Epithelial adenoma is a tumor that is rarely found in adults or children. Colonoscopic perforation and biopsy are mandatory for establishing a definitive diagnosis and avoiding medical mismanagement.
Correlation-Based Network Generation, Visualization, and Analysis as a Powerful Tool in Biological Studies: A Case Study in Cancer Cell Metabolism
Authors: Batushansky Albert , Toubiana David , Fait Aaron
Published: October 2016

In the last decade vast data sets are being generated in biological and medical studies. The challenge lies in their summary, complexity reduction, and interpretation. Correlation-based networks and graph-theory based properties of this type of networks can be successfully used during this process. However, the procedure has its pitfalls and requires specific knowledge that often lays beyond classical biology and includes many computational tools and software. Here we introduce one of a series of methods for correlation-based network generation and analysis using freely available software. The pipeline allows the user to control each step of the network generation and provides flexibility in selection of correlation methods and thresholds. The pipeline was implemented on published metabolomics data of a population of human breast carcinoma cell lines MDA-MB-231 under two conditions: normal and hypoxia. The analysis revealed significant differences between the metabolic networks in response to the tested conditions. The network under hypoxia had 1.7 times more significant correlations between metabolites, compared to normal conditions. Unique metabolic interactions were identified which could lead to the identification of improved markers or aid in elucidating the mechanism of regulation between distantly related metabolites induced by the cancer growth.
Intelligent Fault Diagnosis in a Power Distribution Network
Authors: Babayomi Oluleke O. , Oluseyi Peter O.
Published: October 2016

This paper presents a novel method of fault diagnosis by the use of fuzzy logic and neural network-based techniques for electric power fault detection, classification, and location in a power distribution network. A real network was used as a case study. The ten different types of line faults including single line-to-ground, line-to-line, double line-to-ground, and three-phase faults were investigated. The designed system has 89% accuracy for fault type identification. It also has 93% accuracy for fault location. The results indicate that the proposed technique is effective in detecting, classifying, and locating low impedance faults.
Gearbox Fault Diagnosis of Wind Turbine by KA and DRT
Authors: Heidari Mohammad
Published: October 2016

The spectral kurtosis analysis (KA) is used to select the filter parameters (FPs) combined with the application of the demodulation resonance technique (DRT) for a gearbox fault diagnosis (FD) of wind turbine. Based on the proposed method, the FPs can be selected automatically according to the kurtosis maximization principle. By changing of the shaft speed under the variable loads conditions, the natural frequency (NF) of the gearbox will be shifted and will affect the accuracy of the detection of the faults. So, the effect of the external loads on the NF of the gearbox is examined based on the simulation of the gearbox. In addition, the fast kurtogram (FK) combined with the demodulated resonance technology is used to process the simulated faulty signal of a gearbox. The results show that the FD of the gearbox is modified by correcting the NF shifts due to the variation of the operating loads.
Management of Patient Care in Hemodialysis While Focusing on Cardiovascular Disease Events and the Atypical Role of Hyper- and/or Hypotension: A Systematic Review
Authors: Khan Amjad , Khan Amer Hayat , Adnan Azreen Syazril , Syed Sulaiman Syed Azhar , Gan Siew Hua , Khan Irfanullah
Published: October 2016

Background. Hemodialysis related hemodynamic instability is a major but an underestimated issue. Moreover, cardiovascular events are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality associated with blood pressure in hemodialysis patients. However, there have been many controversies regarding the role and management of hyper- and/or hypotension during hemodialysis that needs to be addressed.Objective. To critically review the available published data on the atypical role of hyper- and/or hypotension in cardiovascular associated morbidity and mortality in patients on hemodialysis and to understand the discrepancies in this context.Methods. A comprehensive search of literature employing electronic as well as manual sources and screening 2783 papers published between Jan 1980 and Oct 2015 was conducted to collect, identify, and analyze relevant information through peer-reviewed research articles, systematic reviews, and other published works. The cardiovascular events, including accelerated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), stroke, heart failure, myocardial infarction, myocardial ischemia, and stress induced myocardial dysfunction, leading to death were considered relevant.Results. A total of 23 published articles met the inclusion criteria and were included for in-depth review and analysis to finalize a comprehensive systematic review article. All the studies showed a significant association between the blood pressure and cardiovascular disease events in hemodialysis patients.Conclusions. Both intradialytic hypertension/hypotension episodes are major risk factors for cardiovascular mortality with a high percentage of probable causality; however, clinicians are faced with a dilemma on how to evaluate blood pressure and treat this condition.
An Endomyocardial Biopsy of the Left Ventricle in an Anorexia Nervosa Patient with Sinus Bradycardia and Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction
Authors: Takahashi Satoshi , Mine Takanao
Published: October 2016

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted perception of body weight. AN is a life-threatening condition that significantly increases the risk of death due to cardiac complications, such that at least one-third of all deaths in patients with AN are associated with cardiac causes including sudden death. In many reports, sudden death has been linked to reduced left ventricular function, structural changes, and QT abnormalities. However, the mechanistic details connecting AN to cardiac abnormalities remain unknown. Here we present an endomyocardial biopsy of the left ventricle in a case of AN with a reversible left ventricular systolic dysfunction.
Six Serum-Based miRNAs as Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Huang Zebo , Zhu Danxia , Wu Lirong , He Mingfeng , Zhou Xin , Zhang Lan , Zhang Huo , Wang Weiwei , Zhu Jun , Cheng Wenfang , Chen Yan , Fan Yong , Qi Lianwen , Yin Yin , Zhu Wei , Shu Yongqian , Liu Ping
Published: October 2016

Background: Circulating miRNAs in serum may serve as promising diagnostic biomarkers for patients with gastric cancer.

Methods: Using qRT-PCR-based Exiqon panel, we identified 58 differentially expressed miRNAs from three gastric cancer pool samples and one normal control (NC) pool in the initial screening phase. Identified miRNAs were further validated in the training (49 gastric cancer vs. 47 NCs) and validation phases (154 gastric cancer vs. 120 NCs) using qRT-PCR. The expression levels of the miRNAs were also determined in tissues, arterial serum, and exosomes.

Results: Consequently, six serum miRNAs (miR10b-5p, miR132-3p, miR185-5p, miR195-5p, miR-20a3p, and miR296-5p) were significantly overexpressed in gastric cancer compared with NCs. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the six-miRNA panel were 0.764 and 0.702 for the training and validation phases, respectively. miR10b-5p and miR296-5p were significantly upregulated in gastric cancer tissues (n = 188). In addition, patients who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy with high expression of miR10b-5p or miR296-5p in tissues tended to suffer worse overall survival. Furthermore, the expression levels of miR10b-5p, miR195-5p, miR20a-3p, and miR296-5p were significantly elevated in exosomes from gastric cancer serum samples (n = 30).

Conclusions: We identified a six-miRNA panel in serum for the detection of gastric cancer.

Impact: Our findings provide a novel serum miRNA signature for gastric cancer diagnosis, and will serve as the basis of the application of circulating miRNAs in clinical for the detection of gastric cancer in the future. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(2); 188–96. ©2016 AACR.
Differential Patterns of Risk Factors for Early-Onset Breast Cancer by ER Status in African American Women
Authors: Bertrand Kimberly A. , Bethea Traci N. , Adams-Campbell Lucile L. , Rosenberg Lynn , Palmer Julie R.
Published: October 2016

Background: Given the disproportionately high incidence of early-onset breast cancer and aggressive subtypes, such as estrogen receptor (ER)-negative tumors, in African American (AA) women, elucidation of risk factors for early onset of specific subtypes of breast cancer is needed.

Methods: We evaluated associations of reproductive, anthropometric, and other factors with incidence of invasive breast cancer by age at onset (<45, ≥45) in 57,708 AA women in the prospective Black Women's Health Study. From 1995 to 2013, we identified 529 invasive breast cancers among women <45 years of age (151 ER−, 219 ER+) and 1,534 among women ≥45 years (385 ER−, 804 ER+). We used multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for associations by age and ER status.

Results: Higher parity, older age at first birth, never having breastfed, and abdominal adiposity were associated with increased risk of early-onset ER− breast cancer: HRs were 1.71 for ≥3 births versus one birth; 2.29 for first birth after age 25 versus <20 years; 0.61 for ever having breastfed versus never; and 1.64 for highest versus lowest tertile of waist-to-hip ratio. These factors were not associated with ER− cancer in older women or with ER+ cancer regardless of age.

Conclusions: Differences in risk factors by ER subtype were observed for breast cancer diagnosed before the age of 45 years.

Impact: Etiological heterogeneity by tumor subtype in early-onset breast cancer, in combination with a higher prevalence of the risk factors in AA women, may explain, in part, racial disparities in breast cancer incidence. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 26(2); 270–7. ©2016 AACR.
Changes in Retinal Thickness after Vitrectomy for Epiretinal Membrane with and without Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling
Authors: Obata Shumpei , Fujikawa Masato , Iwasaki Keisuke , Kakinoki Masashi , Sawada Osamu , Saishin Yoshitsugu , Kawamura Hajime , Ohji Masahito
Published: October 2016

Purpose: To investigate anatomic changes in retinal thickness (RT) and functional changes after vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs) with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. Methods: The medical records of 100 eyes of 96 patients with ERM who underwent vitrectomy and ERM removal were reviewed retrospectively. The RT was measured by optical coherence tomography, and the area was divided into 9 sections. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), 9 RT areas, and incidence rates of recurrent ERM were compared between the groups with and without ILM peeling before the operation and 12 months postoperatively. Results: Thirty-nine eyes that underwent vitrectomy with ILM peeling and 61 eyes that underwent vitrectomy without ILM peeling met the inclusion criteria. There were no significant differences between the groups in the BCVA and any of the RTs before the operation and 12 months postoperatively. The ERMs recurred in 8 (20.5%) of 39 eyes and 26 (42.6%) of 61 eyes in the groups with and without ILM peeling, respectively, with a difference that reached significance (p = 0.02) 12 months postoperatively. Conclusions: Vitrectomy for ERM affects the BCVA or the RTs 12 months postoperatively. Additional ILM peeling does not affect them, but it might reduce the ERM recurrence rate.
The Efficacy of Antimuscarinics Alone or in Combination with Alpha-Blockers for the Treatment of Ureteral Stent-Related Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yan Huilei , Wang Yunhui , Sun Rong , Cui Yuanshan
Published: October 2016

Introduction and Aim: The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of antimuscarinics alone or in combination with alpha-blockers for the treatment of ureteral stent-related symptoms. Methods: The databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register of Controlled Trials from 2000 to February 2016 were searched to identify randomized controlled trials that referred to the use of a combination of antimuscarinics and alpha-blockers for the treatment of ureteral stent-related symptoms. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. Results: Seven publications involving 710 patients were included in the meta-analysis. In the analysis, we found significantly improved total International Prostate Symptom Score, quality of life, body pain and work performance score of the Ureteral Stent Symptom Questionnaire (USSQ) in the combination group compared with antimuscarinics alone (p = 0.00001, p = 0.00001, p = 0.00001 and p = 0.004, respectively). Antimuscarinics alone versus the control group showed significant improvement in urinary symptom, body pain and general health score of USSQ (p = 0.002, p = 0.00001 and p = 0.003, respectively). Conclusions: Our meta-analysis shows the beneficial effect of antimuscarinics alone in reducing stent-related symptoms. The combined use of antimuscarinics and alpha-blockers results in additive favorable effects in patients with ureteral stent-related symptoms compared with antimuscarinics monotherapy. The alpha-blockers may enhance the efficacy of the antimuscarinics, which is beneficial for the treatment of ureteral stent-related symptoms.
Stem Cell Models: A Guide to Understand and Mitigate Aging?
Authors: Brunauer Regina , Alavez Silvestre , Kennedy Brian K.
Published: October 2016

Aging is studied either on a systemic level using life span and health span of animal models, or on the cellular level using replicative life span of yeast or mammalian cells. While useful in identifying general and conserved pathways of aging, both approaches provide only limited information about cell-type specific causes and mechanisms of aging. Stem cells are the regenerative units of multicellular life, and stem cell aging might be a major cause for organismal aging. Using the examples of hematopoietic stem cell aging and human pluripotent stem cell models, we propose that stem cell models of aging are valuable for studying tissue-specific causes and mechanisms of aging and can provide unique insights into the mammalian aging process that may be inaccessible in simple model organisms.
Renal Arterial Spin Labeling Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Becker Anton S. , Rossi Cristina
Published: October 2016

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI allows the quantification of tissue perfusion without administration of exogenous contrast agents. Patients with reduced renal function or other contraindications to Gadolinium-based contrast media may benefit from the non-invasive monitoring of tissue microcirculation. So far, only few studies have investigated the sensitivity, the specificity and the reliability of the ASL techniques for the assessment of renal perfusion. Moreover, only little is known about the interplay between ASL markers of perfusion and functional renal filtration parameters. In this editorial, we discuss the main technical issues related to the quantification of renal perfusion by ASL and, in particular, the latest results in patients with kidney disorders.
Relationship between Anemia and Serum Concentrations of Calcium and Phosphorus in Advanced Non-Dialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Boronat Mauro , Santana Ángelo , Bosch Elvira , Lorenzo Dionisio , Riaño Marta , García-Cantón César
Published: October 2016

Background/Aims: Different biochemical abnormalities of metabolic bone disease have been associated with anemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD), mainly in hemodialysis patients. However, all of these abnormalities are closely inter-related and their individual effect on the development of anemia is uncertain. This study was aimed to assess the relationship between anemia and a set of metabolic bone disease biomarkers in a cohort of adult patients with advanced non-dialysis-dependent CKD. Methods: The sample consisted of 382 patients submitted to a Nephrology Unit for evaluation of advanced CKD in a tertiary hospital from Gran Canaria during 3 years. Associations between anemia and serum levels of calcium (albumin-corrected), phosphorus, PTH, 25-hydroxivitamin D (25(OH)D3) and alkaline phosphatase were analyzed by using logistic regression models with adjustment for other demographic, clinical and biochemical covariates potentially related to anemia and to bone mineral metabolism. Results: Serum levels of calcium and 25(OH)D3 (negatively) and phosphorus (positively) were significantly associated with anemia in an unadjusted logistic regression model. In a fully adjusted multivariable model, the OR for anemia was 0.29 (95% CI 0.16-0.49; p < 0.0001) for every 1 mg/dl increase in serum calcium and 2.19 (95% CI 1.55-3.15; p < 0.001) for every 1 mg/dl increase in serum phosphorus. Female sex and lower serum albumin levels were also independently associated with anemia. The inclusion of albumin in the adjusted model displaced the significance of 25(OH)D3. Conclusions: Circulating levels of calcium and phosphorus are strongly linked to anemia in patients with advanced non-dialysis CKD.
Skeletal Muscle Regeneration, Repair and Remodelling in Aging: The Importance of Muscle Stem Cells and Vascularization
Authors: Joanisse Sophie , Nederveen Joshua P. , Snijders Tim , McKay Bryon R. , Parise Gianni
Published: October 2016

Sarcopenia is the age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. Ultimately, sarcopenia results in the loss of independence, which imposes a large financial burden on healthcare systems worldwide. A critical facet of sarcopenia is the diminished ability for aged muscle to regenerate, repair and remodel. Over the years, research has focused on elucidating underlying mechanisms of sarcopenia and the impaired ability of muscle to respond to stimuli with aging. Muscle-specific stem cells, termed satellite cells (SC), play an important role in maintaining muscle health throughout the lifespan. It is well established that SC are essential in skeletal muscle regeneration, and it has been hypothesized that a reduction and/or dysregulation of the SC pool, may contribute to accelerated loss of skeletal muscle mass that is observed with advancing age. The preservation of skeletal muscle tissue and its ability to respond to stimuli may be impacted by reduced SC content and impaired function observed with aging. Aging is also associated with a reduction in capillarization of skeletal muscle. We have recently demonstrated that the distance between type II fibre-associated SC and capillaries is greater in older compared to younger adults. The greater distance between SC and capillaries in older adults may contribute to the dysregulation in SC activation ultimately impairing muscle's ability to remodel and, in extreme circumstances, regenerate. This viewpoint will highlight the importance of optimal SC activation in addition to skeletal muscle capillarization to maximize the regenerative potential of skeletal muscle in older adults.
Clinical Aspects and Prognostic Factors for Survival in Patients with Recurrent Cervical Cancer after Radical Hysterectomy
Authors: Hanprasertpong Jitti , Jiamset Ingporn , Geater Alan , Rattanaburi Athithan , Thannil Sarayut
Published: October 2016

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical aspects and prognostic factors for survival in patients with recurrent cervical cancer after radical hysterectomy with node dissection (RHND) for stages IA2-IB1. Patients and Methods: Clinicopathologic characteristics of the primary tumor, pattern of recurrence, method of detection, salvage treatment, and outcome were reviewed from the medical records of patients who underwent RHND between 1987 and 2015. Prognostic factors were identified using a Cox regression model. Results: Of 702 patients enrolled in the study, 84 (11.9%) had recurrence. 58, 17, and 9 patients had locoregional, distant, and combined recurrence, respectively. No association between clinicopathologic features and recurrence patterns was observed. Most recurrence patients (63.1%) complained of symptoms prior to examination. The majority of asymptomatic recurrence patients (71.4%) were diagnosed by physical and/or pelvic examination. 5-year overall survival after recurrence (SAR) was 34.3%. On multivariate analysis, pattern of recurrence (p = 0.003), symptom status (p = 0.011), age (p = 0.035), and white blood cell (WBC) count (p = 0.017) were independent prognostic factors for overall SAR. Conclusion: Only pattern of recurrence, symptom status, age, and WBC count were found to be prognostic factors in recurrent cervical cancer after RHND. Follow-up programs after RHND should be directed toward early detection of recurrence.
Early Carotid Artery Stenting for Cerebral Watershed Infarction Is Safe and Effective: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Huakun , Chu Jianfeng , Zhang Lei , Liu Chaolai , Yan Zhongrui , Zhou Shengnian
Published: October 2016

Background: With carotid artery stenosis, infarcts can occur in the cortical or internal watershed areas, or both. The timing of carotid artery stenting (CAS) after a cerebral watershed infarction (CWI) is not yet codified. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the safety and clinical effect of early CAS for CWI patients due to carotid artery stenosis. Methods: Between March 2011 and April 2014, 120 CWI patients with ipsilateral carotid artery stenosis were recruited. Of these 120 patients, 63 received CAS within 7 days of the symptom onset (group 1) and 57 received standard medical treatment at the symptom onset (group 2). Periprocedural complications were analyzed in group 1 to evaluate the safety of early CAS. Clinical effects were analyzed by evaluating National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score as well as modified Ranking Scale (mRS) score of pre- and post-treatment in 2 groups. Results: There was no significant difference in pre-treatment NIHSS score between the 2 groups (8.52 ± 2.46 and 7.84 ± 2.64, p = 0.15). However, group 1 had lower post-treatment NIHSS score as compared to group 2 (3.03 ± 1.44 and 3.84 ± 1.73, p = 0.006). In both groups, NIHSS score after treatment was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Treatment effect in group 1 was larger compared to group 2 (-5.49 ± 2.12 and -4.00 ± 1.98, p < 0.05). Before the treatment, both groups had similar patient numbers with mRS score ≤2; however, after 30 days of surgery, group 1 had more number of patients with mRS score ≤2 than group 2. Conclusion: This study suggested that early CAS for CWI can be performed without significant risk. More importantly, early CAS for CWI can improve the prognosis.
Socioeconomic Inequalities in Statin Adherence Under Universal Coverage
Authors: Aarnio Emma , Martikainen Janne , Winn Aaron N. , Huupponen Risto , Vahtera Jussi , Korhonen Maarit J.
Published: October 2016

Background—

Previous research shows that low socioeconomic position (SEP; especially low income) is associated with statin nonadherence. We investigated the relationship between SEP and statin adherence in a country with universal coverage using group-based trajectory modeling in addition to the proportion of days covered.

Methods and Results—

Using data from Finnish healthcare registers, we identified 116 846 individuals, aged 45 to 75 years, who initiated statin therapy for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. We measured adherence as proportion of days covered over an 18-month period since initiation and identified different adherence patterns based on monthly adherence with group-based trajectory modeling. When adjusted for age, marital status, residential area, clinical characteristics, and copayment, low SEP was associated with statin nonadherence (proportion of days covered <80%) among men (eg, lowest versus highest income quintile: odds ratio, 1.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.32–1.50; basic versus higher-degree education: odds ratio, 1.18; 95% confidence interval, 1.13–1.24; unemployment versus employment: odds ratio, 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.25). Among women, the corresponding associations were different (
P
<0.001 for sex-by-income quintile, sex-by-education level, and sex-by-labor market status interactions) and mainly nonsignificant. Results based on adherence trajectories showed that men in low SEP were likely to belong to trajectories presenting a fast decline in adherence.

Conclusions—

Low SEP was associated with overall and rapidly increasing statin nonadherence among men. Conversely, in women, associations between SEP and nonadherence were weak and inconsistent. Group-based trajectory modeling provided insight into the dynamics of statin adherence and its association with SEP.
A MicroRNA302-367-Erk1/2-Klf2-S1pr1 Pathway Prevents Tumor Growth via Restricting Angiogenesis and Improving Vascular Stability
Authors: Pi Jingjiang , Tao Ting , Zhuang Tao , Sun Huimin , Chen Xiaoli , Liu Jie , Cheng Yu , Yu Zuoren , Zhu Helen He , Gao Wei-Qiang , Suo Yuanzhen , Wei Xunbin , Chan Paul , Zheng Xiangjian , Tian Ying , Morrisey Edward , Zhang Lin , Zhang YuZhen
Published: October 2016

Rationale:

Angiogenic hypersprouting and leaky vessels are essential for tumor growth. MicroRNAs have unique therapeutic advantages by targeting multiple pathways of tumor-associated angiogenesis, but the function of individual miRNAs of miR302-367 cluster in angiogenesis and tumors has not yet been fully evaluated.

Objective:

To investigate the functions of miR302-367 in developmental angiogenesis and tumor angiogenesis and explore the molecular mechanisms of microRNA for the treatment of pathological neovascularization-related diseases.

Methods and Results:

Here, we show that miR302-367 elevation in endothelial cells reduces retinal sprouting angiogenesis and promotes vascular stability in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro. Erk1/2 is identified as direct target of miR302-367, and downregulation of Erk1/2 on miR302-367 elevation in endothelial cells increases the expression of Klf2 and in turn S1pr1 and its downstream target VE-cadherin, suppressing angiogenesis and improving vascular stability. Conversely, both pharmacological blockade and genetic deletion of S1pr1 in endothelial cells reverse the antiangiogenic and vascular stabilizing effect of miR302-367 in mice. Tumor angiogenesis shares features of developmental angiogenesis, and endothelial specific elevation of miR302-367 reduces tumor growth by restricting sprout angiogenesis and decreasing vascular permeability via the same Erk1/2-Klf2-S1pr1 pathways.

Conclusions:

MiR302-367 regulation of an Erk1/2-Klf2-S1pr1 pathway in the endothelium advances our understanding of angiogenesis, meanwhile also provides opportunities for therapeutic intervention of tumor growth.
Plasma Lipidomic Profiles Improve on Traditional Risk Factors for the Prediction of Cardiovascular Events in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Alshehry Zahir H. , Mundra Piyushkumar A. , Barlow Christopher K. , Mellett Natalie A. , Wong Gerard , McConville Malcolm J. , Simes John , Tonkin Andrew M. , Sullivan David R. , Barnes Elizabeth H. , Nestel Paul J. , Kingwell Bronwyn A. , Marre Michel , Neal Bruce , Poulter Neil R. , Rodgers Anthony , Williams Bryan , Zoungas Sophia , Hillis Graham S. , Chalmers John , Woodward Mark , Meikle Peter J.
Published: October 2016

Background:

Clinical lipid measurements do not show the full complexity of the altered lipid metabolism associated with diabetes mellitus or cardiovascular disease. Lipidomics enables the assessment of hundreds of lipid species as potential markers for disease risk.

Methods:

Plasma lipid species (310) were measured by a targeted lipidomic analysis with liquid chromatography electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry on a case-cohort (n=3779) subset from the ADVANCE trial (Action in Diabetes and Vascular Disease: Preterax and Diamicron-MR Controlled Evaluation). The case-cohort was 61% male with a mean age of 67 years. All participants had type 2 diabetes mellitus with ≥1 additional cardiovascular risk factors, and 35% had a history of macrovascular disease. Weighted Cox regression was used to identify lipid species associated with future cardiovascular events (nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, and cardiovascular death) and cardiovascular death during a 5-year follow-up period. Multivariable models combining traditional risk factors with lipid species were optimized with the Akaike information criteria. C statistics and NRIs were calculated within a 5-fold cross-validation framework.

Results:

Sphingolipids, phospholipids (including lyso- and ether- species), cholesteryl esters, and glycerolipids were associated with future cardiovascular events and cardiovascular death. The addition of 7 lipid species to a base model (14 traditional risk factors and medications) to predict cardiovascular events increased the C statistic from 0.680 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.678–0.682) to 0.700 (95% CI, 0.698–0.702;
P
<0.0001) with a corresponding continuous NRI of 0.227 (95% CI, 0.219–0.235). The prediction of cardiovascular death was improved with the incorporation of 4 lipid species into the base model, showing an increase in the C statistic from 0.740 (95% CI, 0.738–0.742) to 0.760 (95% CI, 0.757–0.762;
P
<0.0001) and a continuous net reclassification index of 0.328 (95% CI, 0.317–0.339). The results were validated in a subcohort with type 2 diabetes mellitus (n=511) from the LIPID trial (Long-Term Intervention With Pravastatin in Ischemic Disease).

Conclusions:

The improvement in the prediction of cardiovascular events, above traditional risk factors, demonstrates the potential of plasma lipid species as biomarkers for cardiovascular risk stratification in diabetes mellitus.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00145925.
The Electrophysiological Signature of Remember–Know Is Confounded with Memory Strength and Cannot Be Interpreted as Evidence for Dual-process Theory of Recognition
Authors: Brezis Noam , Bronfman Zohar Z. , Yovel Galit , Goshen-Gottstein Yonatan
Published: October 2016

The quantity and nature of the processes underlying recognition memory remains an open question. A majority of behavioral, neuropsychological, and brain studies have suggested that recognition memory is supported by two dissociable processes: recollection and familiarity. It has been conversely argued, however, that recollection and familiarity map onto a single continuum of mnemonic strength and hence that recognition memory is mediated by a single process. Previous electrophysiological studies found marked dissociations between recollection and familiarity, which have been widely held as corroborating the dual-process account. However, it remains unknown whether a strength interpretation can likewise apply for these findings. Here we describe an ERP study, using a modified remember–know (RK) procedure, which allowed us to control for mnemonic strength. We find that ERPs of high and low mnemonic strength mimicked the electrophysiological distinction between R and K responses, in a lateral positive component (LPC), 500–1000 msec poststimulus onset. Critically, when contrasting strength with RK experience, by comparing weak R to strong K responses, the electrophysiological signal mapped onto strength, not onto subjective RK experience. Invoking the LPC as support for dual-process accounts may, therefore, be amiss.
Network Connectivity of the Right STS in Three Social Perception Localizers
Authors: Dasgupta Samhita , Tyler Sarah C. , Wicks Jonathan , Srinivasan Ramesh , Grossman Emily D.
Published: October 2016

The posterior STS (pSTS) is an important brain region for perceptual analysis of social cognitive cues. This study seeks to characterize the pattern of network connectivity emerging from the pSTS in three core social perception localizers: biological motion perception, gaze recognition, and the interpretation of moving geometric shapes as animate. We identified brain regions associated with all three of these localizers and computed the functional connectivity pattern between them and the pSTS using a partial correlations metric that characterizes network connectivity. We find a core pattern of cortical connectivity that supports the hypothesis that the pSTS serves as a hub of the social brain network. The right pSTS was the most highly connected of the brain regions measured, with many long-range connections to pFC. Unlike other highly connected regions, connectivity to the pSTS was distinctly lateralized. We conclude that the functional importance of right pSTS is revealed when considering its role in the large-scale network of brain regions involved in various aspects of social cognition.
The Feedback-related Negativity Reflects the Combination of Instantaneous and Long-term Values of Decision Outcomes
Authors: Osinsky Roman , Ulrich Natalie , Mussel Patrick , Feser Lena , Gunawardena Aruni , Hewig Johannes
Published: October 2016

Hundreds of ERP studies have reported a midfrontal negative-going amplitude shift following negative compared with positive action outcomes. This feedback-related negativity (FRN) effect is typically thought to reflect an early and binary mechanism of action evaluation in the posterior midcingulate cortex. However, in prior research on the FRN effect, the instantaneous value and the long-term value of action outcomes have been perfectly confounded. That is, instantaneously positive outcomes were generally consistent with task goals, whereas instantaneously negative outcomes were inconsistent with task goals. In this study, we disentangled these two outcome aspects in two experiments. Our results reveal an interaction of instantaneous and long-term outcome values. More precisely, our findings strongly suggest that the FRN effect is mainly driven by a reward positivity, which is evoked only by outcomes that possess an instantaneously positive value and also help the organism to reach its long-term goals. These findings add to a recent literature according to which the posterior midcingulate cortex acts as a hierarchical reinforcement learning system and suggest that this system integrates instant and long-term action–outcome values. This, in turn, might be crucial for learning optimal behavioral strategies in a given setting.
A taxonomic revision of Angraecum section Dolabrifolia (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae), with the description of a new species from Gabon
Authors: SIMO-DROISSART MURIELLE , SONKÉ BONAVENTURE , DROISSART VINCENT , GEERINCK DANIEL , LOWRY II PORTER P. , STÉVART TARIQ
Published: October 2016

Despite a paucity of material available from continental Africa, previous morphological and molecular phylogenetic studies have suggested that Angraecum, the largest genus of the angraecoid orchids, is polyphyletic. A recent study based on broad sampling from the region confirmed the monophyly of section Dolabrifolia and a clear delimitation of four of its five members, one of which represents a new species. Based on these results, a comprehensive taxonomic revision of Angraecum sect. Dolabrifolia is presented here. It includes an identification key and a detailed description of each species, along with color photographs, distribution maps, information on habitat and phenology, and a preliminary risk of extinction assessment according to the IUCN Red List categories and criteria. Species richness in the section is highest in Atlantic Central Africa and around the Albertine Rift. The new species, A. biteaui, is described and illustrated with line drawings. It most closely resembles A. aporoides in general aspect but differs in both foliar and floral characters, and is only known from lowland forests in Gabon.
Ochrolechia kerguelensis sp. nov. from the Southern Hemisphere and O. antarctica reinstated from the synonymy of O. parella
Authors: ERTZ DAMIEN , FRYDAY ALAN , SCHMITT IMKE , CHARRIER MARYVONNE , DUDEK MAGDALENA , KUKWA MARTIN
Published: October 2016

Ochrolechia kerguelensis Ertz & Kukwa is described as new to science from the subantarctic islands of Kerguelen. It is characterized by pruinose ascomata, usually 4-spored asci, large ascospores of 50–90 × 32–56 µm, the production of gyrophoric acid only in the apothecia and the lack of variolaric acid. A photobiont with cells containing orange guttules such as in trentepohlioid algae is recorded for the first time in the genus Ochrolechia, being present in O. austroamericana and O. kerguelensis. Ochrolechia antarctica is reinstated from the synonymy of O. parella and treated as a distinct species. Chemical and morphological differences between these taxa are discussed. Ochrolechia chilensis and O. deceptionis are treated as synonyms of O. antarctica. The phylogenetic placement of O. antarctica, O. austroamericana and O. kerguelensis is investigated using mtSSU rDNA sequences and a Bayesian analysis. A key to all fertile, saxicolous Ochrolechia species with a C+ red epihymenium occurring in the Southern Hemisphere is presented.
Multigene phylogeny and morphology reveal a new species, Ophiocordyceps tettigonia, from Guizhou Province, China
Authors: WEN TING-CHI , XIAO YUAN-PIN , ZHA LING-SHENG , HYDE KEVIN D. , KANG JI-CHUAN
Published: October 2016

A species of Cordyceps sensu lato associated with an adult of Tettigonia was collected in Chishui Danxia natural world heritage site, Guizhou Province, China. Following morpho-phylogenetic studies it was found to be a new species and is described as Ophiocordyceps tettigonia sp. nov. It differs from similar Ophiocordyceps species in having a unique host insect, and wide secondary ascospores. Combined sequence data from the ITS, SSU, TEF, and RPB1 gene loci also confirmed the distinctiveness of this new species.
Taxonomic diagnosis of Dicyrtomina ornata and D. saundersi (Collembola: Dicyrtomidae) and analysis of their population genetic structure
Authors: FANCIULLI PIETRO PAOLO , BELLONI MASSIMO , CARAPELLI ANTONIO , DALLAI ROMANO , FRATI FRANCESCO
Published: October 2016

The taxonomic validity of two presumed species of the collembolan genus Dicyrtomina was evaluated by using allozyme electrophoresis. Twenty-one loci were screened in seven populations assigned to D. ornata and eight populations assigned to D. saundersi. The presence of loci fixed for alternative allelic patterns in sympatric populations demonstrated that the two species are reproductively isolated, therefore confirming their specific status. Average genetic distance between populations of the two species was D=0.714. Populations of D. ornata were more differentiated from one another with respect to those of D. saundersi, which showed higher levels of gene flow.
A new species of Gieysztoria (Platyhelminthes; Rhabdocoela; Dalyelliidae) from a freshwater lake in Queensland, Australia
Authors: HOCHBERG RICK , CANNON LESTER R.G.
Published: October 2016

A new species of Dalyelliidae, Gieysztoria queenslandica, is described from a freshwater lake in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Gieysztoria queenslandica n. sp. is a member of the Aequales group of Gieysztoria and differs from its congeners by possession of an S-shaped ovary, a Y-shaped oviduct leading to a separate receptaculum seminis, and the shape and size of the male copulatory organ. The sclerotic male organ of G. queenslandica is characterized by 27-32 broad, dagger-like spines arising from a hollow crescent-shaped girdle. The new species is seasonally abundant (April- July) in an artificial lake present on the St. Lucia campus of the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia.