bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Properties of Poly(Lactic Acid) Filled with Hydrophobic Cellulose/SiO2 Composites
Authors: Lertphirun Kittithorn , Srikulkit Kawee
Published: January 2019

Hydrophobic cellulose/SiO2 composites were prepared. Resultant hydrophobic cellulose/SiO2 composites were melt mixed with PLA using a twin-screw extruder to obtain 10 wt% masterbatch. Again, 10 wt% masterbatch was melt mixed with virgin PLA, resulting in PLA containing hydrophobic cellulose/SiO2 at various contents (1 wt%, 3 wt%, and 5 wt%) using a twin-screw extruder (barrel zone temperature: 150/160/170/180/190°C (die zone)). Injection-molded samples were prepared for mechanical properties evaluation. Results showed that poor mechanical properties found at low percent loadings were associated with a significant depolymerization of masterbatch composition due to twice thermal treatments. Note that 10 wt% masterbatch was subjected to injection molding straight away in a one-step process. Results showed that 10 wt% hydrophobic cellulose/SiO2/PLA composites exhibited mechanical properties equivalent to neat PLA. Importantly, the addition of hydrophobic cellulose/SiO2 at high percent loading could favor landfill degradation of PLA via water absorption ability of cellulose. It was expected that enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose resulted in the formation of lactic acid and silicic acid which consequently catalyzed the hydrolytic degradation (acid hydrolysis) of PLA. The hydrolytic degradation produced carboxylic acid end group which further accelerated the degradation rate.
Functional Graphene Oxide Nanocarriers for Drug Delivery
Authors: Ye Yuanfeng , Mao Xincheng , Xu Jialing , Kong Jingyang , Hu Xiaohong
Published: January 2019

The family of graphene has attracted increasing attention on account of their large specific surface area and good mechanical properties in the biomedical field. However, some characteristics like targeted delivery property and drug delivery capacity could not satisfy the need of a drug carrier. Herein, a graphene oxide (GO) nanocarrier was designed by modification of a folic acid (FA) derivative and a β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) derivative in order to improve two properties, respectively. In the first step, reactive or crosslinkable FA and aldehydic β-CD (β-CD-CHO) were designed and synthesized for further modification. In the second step, synthesized functional molecules were coupled onto GO sheets one by one to obtain the GO nanocarrier. IR spectra and XRD results were used to identify the chemical and structural information before and after modification for the GO nanocarrier. The final GO nanocarrier exhibited a typical thin wrinkled sheet morphology of the GO sheet without any influence by two functional molecules. Finally, in vitro evaluation was used to clarify the drug loading and controlling capacity of the nanocarrier as a drug delivery system. The results revealed that the GO nanocarrier had a better CPT loading capacity and showed better controllability for CPT release.
A Sentinel Node for Event-Driven Structural Monitoring of Road Bridges Using Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Feltrin Glauco , Popovic Nemanja , Wojtera Michał
Published: January 2019

Event-driven monitoring policies enable to significantly reduce the power consumption of wireless sensor networks by reducing the recording period to those time intervals that provide valuable data. The resulting longer operation lifetime increase discloses fields of application that require long monitoring periods. This paper presents a structural monitoring system that uses specialized sentinel nodes for detecting possibly heavy road vehicles and for alarming monitoring nodes, which are specialized on strain sensing. Heavy vehicles are identified by estimating nearly in real time height and length of vehicles of a traffic flow by processing data recorded from low-cost ultrasonic and magnetic displacement sensors. Field tests demonstrated that while height detection is very reliable, length detection is too imprecise to discriminate with high success rates between trucks and delivery vans.
Prophylactic Dermatologic Treatment of Afatinib-Induced Skin Toxicities in Patients with Metastatic Lung Cancer: A Pilot Study
Authors: Fuggetta Maria Pia , Migliorino Maria Rita , Ricciardi Serena , Osman Giorgia , Iacono Daniela , Leone Alvaro , Lombardi Alessandra , Ravagnan Giampietro , Greco Stefania , Remotti Daniele , Romano Maria Concetta Pucci
Published: January 2019

Background. Severe skin rash is listed among important side effects of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Polydatin (PD), a glycosylated polyphenol, is endowed with anti-inflammatory activity in human epidermal keratinocytes. Objective. This study evaluated the effect of topical application of a moisturizer containing PD to prevent skin rash in patients with mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with afatinib. Materials and Methods. Eligible NSCLC patients with metastatic disease were treated with first-line afatinib 40 mg/die. One day before starting systemic therapy, all patients received topical administration of a 1.5% PD-based cream b.i.d. every day until the end of afatinib treatment. Results. Out of 34 treated patients, the incidence of skin rash (all grades) was 41.2% and grade 2 rash was 20.6%, and grade 3 rash was not observed in any of the patients. None of the patients discontinued therapy for toxicity. The mean duration of treatment was 6.4 months, calculated from the time treatment was started to the date treatment was stopped. Conclusion. The results showed that a PD-based cream can reduce the incidence of grade ≥2 skin toxicities in patients treated with afatinib. Clinical study registration number: Prot. No. 130/CE Lazio 1 Italy.
Therapy of Prostate Cancer by Nanoyam Polysaccharide
Authors: Peng Cheng , Han Bo , Wang Baishan , Zhao Gaoyang , Yuan Fang , Zhao Yeyu , Liang Liang , Liu Dingge , Zhai Zhaohui , Shen Yanping
Published: January 2019

We evaluated the effect and mechanism of yam polysaccharide on the proliferation of the prostatic cancer cell line and tumor-bearing mice. The effect of nanoyam polysaccharide on prostatic cancer cell line PC-3 was measured using the scratch adhesion test and flow cytometry. The growth effect induced by nanoyam polysaccharide was detected with the CCK-8 test. The levels of caspase-3 protein were determined with Western blot. In our data, nanoyam polysaccharide presented inhibitory effect on the proliferation of PC-3. The scratch adhesion test showed that the rate of wound healing in the intervention group was significantly lower than that in the control group (p<0.05). Flow cytometry assay showed that, after treatment with nanoyam polysaccharide, the apoptosis rate in the intervention group was significantly lower than that in the control group (45.8%±2.6%, 25.8%±3.1%; p<0.05). Western blot assay showed upregulated levels of caspase-3 in the intervention group, compared to the control group (p<0.05). Our results suggested that nanoyam polysaccharide strongly suppressed the growth of prostatic cancer by inducing the overexpression of caspase-3 and may be a potent anticancer strategy.
Elevated Platelet Count Appears to Be Causally Associated with Increased Risk of Lung Cancer: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Zhu Ying , Wei Yongyue , Zhang Ruyang , Dong Xuesi , Shen Sipeng , Zhao Yang , Bai Jianling , Albanes Demetrius , Caporaso Neil E. , Landi Maria Teresa , Zhu Bin , Chanock Stephen J. , Gu Fangyi , Lam Stephen , Tsao Ming-Sound , Shepherd Frances A. , Tardon Adonina , Fernández-Somoano Ana , Fernandez-Tardon Guillermo , Chen Chu , Barnett Matthew J. , Doherty Jennifer , Bojesen Stig E. , Johansson Mattias , Brennan Paul , McKay James D. , Carreras-Torres Robert , Muley Thomas , Risch Angela , Wichmann Heunz-Erich , Bickeboeller Heike , Rosenberger Albert , Rennert Gad , Saliba Walid , Arnold Susanne M. , Field John K. , Davies Michael P.A. , Marcus Michael W. , Wu Xifeng , Ye Yuanqing , Le Marchand Loic , Wilkens Lynne R. , Melander Olle , Manjer Jonas , Brunnström Hans , Hung Rayjean J. , Liu Geoffrey , Brhane Yonathan , Kachuri Linda , Andrew Angeline S. , Duell Eric J. , Kiemeney Lambertus A. , van der Heijden Erik HFM , Haugen Aage , Zienolddiny Shanbeh , Skaug Vidar , Grankvist Kjell , Johansson Mikael , Woll Penella J. , Cox Angela , Taylor Fiona , Teare Dawn M. , Lazarus Philip , Schabath Matthew B. , Aldrich Melinda C. , Houlston Richard S. , McLaughlin John , Stevens Victoria L. , Shen Hongbing , Hu Zhibin , Dai Juncheng , Amos Christopher I. , Han Younghun , Zhu Dakai , Goodman Gary E. , Chen Feng , Christiani David C.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Platelets are a critical element in coagulation and inflammation, and activated platelets are linked to cancer risk through diverse mechanisms. However, a causal relationship between platelets and risk of lung cancer remains unclear.

Methods:

We performed single and combined multiple instrumental variable Mendelian randomization analysis by an inverse-weighted method, in addition to a series of sensitivity analyses. Summary data for associations between SNPs and platelet count are from a recent publication that included 48,666 Caucasian Europeans, and the International Lung Cancer Consortium and Transdisciplinary Research in Cancer of the Lung data consisting of 29,266 cases and 56,450 controls to analyze associations between candidate SNPs and lung cancer risk.

Results:

Multiple instrumental variable analysis incorporating six SNPs showed a 62% increased risk of overall non–small cell lung cancer [NSCLC; OR, 1.62; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.15–2.27; P = 0.005] and a 200% increased risk for small-cell lung cancer (OR, 3.00; 95% CI, 1.27–7.06; P = 0.01). Results showed only a trending association with NSCLC histologic subtypes, which may be due to insufficient sample size and/or weak effect size. A series of sensitivity analysis retained these findings.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest a causal relationship between elevated platelet count and increased risk of lung cancer and provide evidence of possible antiplatelet interventions for lung cancer prevention.

Impact:

These findings provide a better understanding of lung cancer etiology and potential evidence for antiplatelet interventions for lung cancer prevention.
Cancer-Related Risk Perceptions and Beliefs in Texas: Findings from a 2018 Population-Level Survey
Authors: Cunningham Sonia A. , Yu Robert , Shih Tina , Giordano Sharon , McNeill Lorna H. , Rechis Ruth , Peterson Susan K. , Cinciripini Paul , Foxhall Lewis , Hawk Ernest , Shete Sanjay
Published: January 2019

Background:

Cancer beliefs and perceptions of cancer risk affect the cancer continuum. Identifying underlying factors associated with these beliefs and perceptions in Texas can help inform and target prevention efforts.

Methods:

We developed a cancer-focused questionnaire and administered it online to a nonprobability sample of the Texas population. Weighted multivariable logistic regression analysis identified key factors associated with perceptions and beliefs about cancer.

Results:

The study population comprised 2,034 respondents (median age, 44.4 years) of diverse ethnicity: 45.5% were non-Hispanic white, 10.6% non-Hispanic black, and 35.7% Hispanic. Self-reported depression was significantly associated with cancer risk perceptions and cancer beliefs. Those indicating frequent and infrequent depression versus no depression were more likely to believe that: (i) compared to other people their age, they were more likely to get cancer in their lifetime [OR, 2.92; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.95–4.39 and OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.17–2.74, respectively]; and (ii) when they think about cancer, they automatically think about death (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.56–2.69 and OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.11–1.92, respectively). Frequent depression versus no depression was also associated with agreement that (i) it seems like everything causes cancer (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, 1.26–2.22) and (ii) there is not much one can do to lower one's chance of getting cancer (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.09–1.89). Other predictors for perceived cancer risk and/or cancer beliefs were sex, age, ethnicity/race, being born in the United States, marital status, income, body mass index, and smoking.

Conclusions:

Depression and other predictors are associated with cancer risk perceptions and beliefs in Texas.

Impact:

Increased attention to reducing depression may improve cancer risk perceptions and beliefs.
MicroRNA Dysregulation and Non-Muscle–Invasive Bladder Cancer Prognosis
Authors: Andrew Angeline S. , Karagas Margaret R. , Schroeck Florian R. , Marsit Carmen J. , Schned Alan R. , Pettus Jason R. , Armstrong David A. , Seigne John D.
Published: January 2019

Background:

The high rate of non-muscle–invasive bladder cancer recurrence is a major challenge in patient management. miRNAs functionally regulate tumor cell proliferation and invasion, and have strong potential as biomarkers because they are robust to degradation. The objective of this project was to identify reproducible prognostic miRNAs in resected non-muscle–invasive bladder tumor tissue that are predictive of the recurrent tumor phenotype.

Methods:

We utilized patients diagnosed with primary non-muscle–invasive bladder cancer in three independent cohorts for a biomarker discovery/validation approach. Baseline tumor tissue from patients with the clinically challenging, non-muscle–invasive primary low stage (Ta), high grade, and T1 tumors (tumors extending into the lamina propria) comprised the discovery cohort (n = 38). We isolated the tumor tissue RNA and assessed a panel of approximately 800 miRNAs.

Results:

miR-26b-5p was the top-ranking prognostic tumor tissue miRNA, with a time-to-recurrence HR 0.043 for levels above versus below median, (Padj = 0.0003). miR-26b-5p was related to a dose-response reduction in tumor recurrence, and levels above the median were also associated with reduced time-to-progression (Padj = 0.02). We used two independent longitudinal cohorts that included both low-grade and high-grade Ta and T1 tumors for validation and found a consistent relationship between miR-26b-5p and recurrence and progression.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that miR-26b-5p levels may be prognostic for non-muscle–invasive bladder cancer recurrence, and can feasibly be assessed in baseline tumor tissue from a wide variety of clinical settings.

Impact:

Early identification of those non-muscle–invasive bladder tumor patients with refractory phenotypes would enable individualized treatment and surveillance.
Allergies and the Subsequent Risk of Cancer among Elderly Adults in the United States
Authors: D'Arcy Monica , Rivera Donna R. , Grothen Andrew , Engels Eric A.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Allergic conditions may prevent some cancers by promoting immune surveillance. We examined associations of allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema with cancer risk among elderly Americans.

Methods:

We used Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)-Medicare linked data to perform a case–control study. Cases were individuals with first cancer diagnosed in SEER registries (1992–2013, ages 66–99; N = 1,744,575). Cancer-free controls (N = 100,000) were randomly selected from Medicare and matched on sex, age, and selection year. Allergic conditions were identified using Medicare claims, and logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted ORs (aOR) with significance gauged with a Bonferroni P cutoff (P < 0.00034).

Results:

Allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema were present in 8.40%, 3.45%, and 0.78% of controls, respectively. For allergic rhinitis, strong inverse associations (aORs, 0.66–0.79) were observed for cancers of the hypopharynx, esophagus (squamous cell), cervix, tonsil/oropharynx, and vagina/vulva. More modest but significant inverse associations were noted for cancers of the esophagus (adenocarcinoma), stomach, colon, rectosigmoid/rectum, liver, gallbladder, lung, uterus, bladder, and miscellaneous sites. Associations were stronger in analyses requiring a dispensed medication to confirm the presence of allergic rhinitis. Asthma was associated with reduced risk of liver cancer [aOR 0.82; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.75–0.91], whereas eczema was associated with elevated risk of T-cell lymphoma (aOR, 4.12; 95% CI, 3.43–4.95).

Conclusions:

Inverse associations with allergic rhinitis are present for multiple cancers and require etiologic investigation.

Impact:

Understanding of mechanisms by which allergic conditions reduce cancer risk may advance cancer prevention and treatment.
Hypoxia-Associated Factor (HAF) Mediates Neurofibromin Ubiquitination and Degradation Leading to Ras–ERK Pathway Activation in Hypoxia
Authors: Green Yangsook Song , Sargis Timothy , Reichert Ethan Conrad , Rudasi Eleanor , Fuja Daniel , Jonasch Eric , Koh Mei Yee
Published: January 2019

Low oxygen or hypoxia is a feature of all solid tumors and has been associated with aggressive disease. Here, we describe a novel mechanism for the hypoxia-dependent degradation of the Ras-GTPase–activating protein neurofibromin, by hypoxia-associated factor (HAF). We have previously characterized HAF as an oxygen-independent ubiquitin ligase for HIF-1α. Here, we show that HAF promotes neurofibromin ubiquitination and degradation independently of oxygen and pVHL, resulting in Ras–ERK pathway activation. Hypoxia enhanced HAF:neurofibromin binding independently of HAF-SUMOylation, whereas HAF knockdown increased neurofibromin levels primarily in hypoxia, supporting the role of HAF as a hypoxia-specific neurofibromin regulator. HAF overexpression increased p-ERK levels and promoted resistance of clear cell kidney cancer (ccRCC) cells to sorafenib and sunitinib in both normoxia and hypoxia. However, a greater-fold increase in sorafenib/sunitinib resistance was observed during hypoxia, particularly in pVHL-deficient cells. Intriguingly, HAF-mediated resistance was HIF-2α–dependent in normoxia, but HIF-2α–independent in hypoxia indicating two potential mechanisms of HAF-mediated resistance: a HIF-2α–dependent pathway dominant in normoxia, and the direct activation of the Ras–ERK pathway through neurofibromin degradation dominant in hypoxia. Patients with ccRCC with high HAF transcript or protein levels showed significantly decreased overall survival compared with those with low HAF. Thus, we establish a novel, nonmutational pathway of neurofibromin inactivation through hypoxia-induced HAF-mediated degradation, leading to Ras–ERK activation and poor prognosis in ccRCC.

Implications:

We describe a novel mechanism of neurofibromin degradation induced by hypoxia that leads to activation of the prooncogenic Ras–ERK pathway and resistance to therapy.
Alpha-Blockers As Colorectal Cancer Chemopreventive: Findings from a Case–Control Study, Human Cell Cultures, and In Vivo Preclinical Testing
Authors: Suzuki Nobumi , Niikura Ryota , Ihara Sozaburo , Hikiba Yohko , Kinoshita Hiroto , Higashishima Naoko , Hayakawa Yoku , Yamada Atsuo , Hirata Yoshihiro , Nakata Ryo , Okamoto Makoto , Sano Munetaka , Kushiyama Akifumi , Ichinose Mari , Woods Susan L. , Worthley Daniel , Iwamoto Yasuhiko , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: January 2019

A retrospective case–controlled analysis was performed to identify drug candidates in the current use that may prevent colorectal cancer, outside of aspirin. A total of 37,510 patients aged ≥20 years were assessed to identify subjects who had been diagnosed with colorectal cancer by colonoscopy without a previous diagnosis of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or gastrointestinal symptoms; 1,560 patients were identified who were diagnosed with colorectal cancer by colonoscopy. The patients with colorectal cancer were matched with 1,560 age, gender, family history of colorectal cancer and comorbidity-matched control patients who were not diagnosed with colorectal cancer at colonoscopy. The medication histories were compared between the two groups. Next, candidate drugs that were more frequently used by the control patients were selected and their effects on human colorectal cancer cell lines in vitro and an inflammation-induced mouse model of colorectal cancer were tested. Putative colorectal cancer preventative agents were identified, including aspirin, vitamin D, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, xanthine oxidase inhibitor, alpha-blockers, angiotensin receptor blocker, nateglinide, probiotics, thienopyridine, folic acid, nitrovasodilators, bisphosphonates, calcium channel blockers, steroids, and statins (P < 0.05). Alpha-blockers and xanthine oxidase inhibitors were selected for further study because these agents have not been analyzed previously as factors that may affect colorectal cancer outcomes. In vitro doxazosin (alpha-blocker), but not febuxostat (xanthine oxidase inhibitor), suppressed the proliferation of human colorectal cancer cells. Doxazosin also decreased tumorigenesis in an AOM/DSS mouse colorectal cancer model. Alpha-blockers may prevent colorectal cancer.
An Abstract Provides “seAFOod” for Thought
Authors: DeCensi Andrea , Gescher Andreas
Published: January 2019

A recent article published in The Lancet reports on the seAFOod trial, in which patients with colorectal adenomas received aspirin and/or eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid) post-resection. The article's abstract indicates that the primary trial endpoint, adenoma detection rate, is negative, but it does not give any indication of the remarkable secondary endpoint (adenoma number) results, which strongly suggest chemopreventive efficacy of both agents. Given the difficulty researchers and physician-scientists experience in staying abreast of the latest literature in the field, inclusion of secondary findings in abstracts should be strongly considered.
Molecular and Genetic Characterization of MHC Deficiency Identifies EZH2 as Therapeutic Target for Enhancing Immune Recognition
Authors: Ennishi Daisuke , Takata Katsuyoshi , Béguelin Wendy , Duns Gerben , Mottok Anja , Farinha Pedro , Bashashati Ali , Saberi Saeed , Boyle Merrill , Meissner Barbara , Ben-Neriah Susana , Woolcock Bruce W. , Telenius Adèle , Lai Daniel , Teater Matt , Kridel Robert , Savage Kerry J. , Sehn Laurie H. , Morin Ryan D. , Marra Marco A. , Shah Sohrab P. , Connors Joseph M. , Gascoyne Randy D. , Scott David W. , Melnick Ari M. , Steidl Christian
Published: January 2019

We performed a genomic, transcriptomic, and immunophenotypic study of 347 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) to uncover the molecular basis underlying acquired deficiency of MHC expression. Low MHC-II expression defines tumors originating from the centroblast-rich dark zone of the germinal center (GC) that was associated with inferior prognosis. MHC-II–deficient tumors were characterized by somatically acquired gene mutations reducing MHC-II expression and a lower amount of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. In particular, we demonstrated a strong enrichment of EZH2 mutations in both MHC-I– and MHC-II–negative primary lymphomas, and observed reduced MHC expression and T-cell infiltrates in murine lymphoma models expressing mutant Ezh2Y641. Of clinical relevance, EZH2 inhibitors significantly restored MHC expression in EZH2-mutated human DLBCL cell lines. Hence, our findings suggest a tumor progression model of acquired immune escape in GC-derived lymphomas and pave the way for development of complementary therapeutic approaches combining immunotherapy with epigenetic reprogramming.

Significance:

We demonstrate how MHC-deficient lymphoid tumors evolve in a cell-of-origin–specific context. Specifically, EZH2 mutations were identified as a genetic mechanism underlying acquired MHC deficiency. The paradigmatic restoration of MHC expression by EZH2 inhibitors provides the rationale for synergistic therapies combining immunotherapies with epigenetic reprogramming to enhance tumor recognition and elimination.

See related commentary by Velcheti et al., p. 472.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 453
Erythropoietin Prevents Anemia and Transfusions in Extremely Premature Lambs Supported by an EXTrauterine Environment for Neonatal Development (EXTEND)
Authors: Mejaddam Ali Y. , Hornick Matthew A. , McGovern Patrick E. , Baumgarten Heron D. , Lawrence Kendall M. , Rossidis Avery C. , Hwang Grace , Young Kathleen , Abdulmalik Osheiza , Partridge Emily A. , Peranteau William H. , Davey Marcus G. , Flake Alan W.
Published: January 2019

Background: We recently developed an EXTrauterine Environment for Neonatal Development (EXTEND) that provides physiologic support for premature lambs. Here, we assess the efficacy of exogenous erythropoietin (EPO) to prevent anemia and transfusions on EXTEND. Materials and Methods: Lambs were cannulated at 0.7 gestation and supported on EXTEND for up to 4 weeks. The lambs were divided into three groups: (1) No EPO, (2) Low EPO (300 U kg–1 per day), and (3) High EPO (800 U kg–1 per day). Daily hematocrit and weekly complete blood count were assessed. Results: The mean percentage change in hematocrit from baseline was significantly different between the groups (No EPO –23.6 ± 7.8% vs. Low EPO –16.6 ± 6.4% vs. High EPO +2.6 ± 6.6%; p = 0.02). This occurred despite a greater median number of blood transfusions in the No EPO group (5 vs. 1 vs. 0; p = 0.02). EPO administration was associated with a higher mean corpuscular volume (MCV; p < 0.01) and reticulocyte count (p = 0.02). The High EPO group was comparable to in utero control fetuses with respect to hematocrit (p = 0.49), MCV (p = 0.24), and reticulocyte count (p = 0.68). Conclusions: EPO (800 U kg–1 per day) prevents anemia, eliminates transfusions, and restores normal red blood cell indices in premature lambs supported by EXTEND.
АНАЛІЗ РЕСУРСІВ СИСТЕМИ НАДАННЯ ПЕРВИННОЇ МЕДИЧНОЇ ДОПОМОГИ НАСЕЛЕННЮ УКРАЇНИ ПРИ ХРОНІЧНОМУ ОБСТРУКТИВНОМУ ЗАХВОРЮВАННІ ЛЕГЕНЬ
Authors: Vasylyev A. H.
Published: January 2019

Мета: вивчення ресурсів системи надання первинної медичної допомоги населенню України при хронічному обструктивному захворюванні легень.

Матеріали і методи. Наказом МОЗ України від 27.06.2013 р. № 555 передбачено відповідний обсяг надання медичної допомоги пацієнтам із хронічним обструктивним захворюванням легень лікарем загальної практики – сімейним лікарем.

Результати. Провівши аналіз ресурсів системи надання первинної медичної допомоги при хронічному обструктивному захворюванні легень, встановлено, що наразі відсутній чіткий механізм діяльності закладів охорони здоров’я, які надають медичну допомогу пацієнтам із хронічним обструктивним захворюванні легень, немає фактичного розмежування їх за рівнями, наявний кадровий дефіцит лікарів, відзначається низький рівень матеріально-технічного та фінансового забезпечення галузі.

Висновки. Впровадження нових організаційних засад щодо надання первинної медичної допомоги, які передбачатимуть вирішення питань діяльності закладів охорони здоров’я різних рівнів, кадрового дефіциту  лікарів, підвищення матеріально-технічного та фінансового забезпечення первинної медико-санітарної допомоги, дасть змогу пацієнтам із хронічним обструктивним захворюванням легень отримувати якісну медичну допомогу, зберегти здоров’я та забезпечити перспективу подальшого життя на достатньому фізичному та соціальному рівнях.
Функціональний стан м’язів зубощелепного апарату до та після лікування дітей з аномаліями прикусу та мовленнєвими порушеннями
Authors: Flis P. S. , Raschenko N. V. , Filonenko V. V. , Melnyk A. O. , Etnis L. O.
Published: January 2019

Під час обстеження ортодонтичних пацієнтів були діти з мовленнєвими порушеннями. Міодинамічна рівновага м’язів-антагоністів та синергістів – це відносна стійкість жувальних та мімічних м’язів, що протягом тривалого часу зберігається без помітних коливань, сприяє відносно стабільного стану зубощелепного апарату.

Мета дослідження – визначити функціональний стан м’язів зубощелепного апарату до та після лікування дітей з аномаліями прикусу та мовленнєвими порушеннями.

Матеріали і методи. Для досягнення поставленої мети було прийнято на лікування 44 пацієнти з вираженою ортодонтичною патологією та мовленнєвими порушеннями із нормальним слухом та інтелектом. Для визначення та аналізу показників біоелектричної активності м’язів використано метод сумарної (поверхневої) електроміографії.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Після проведеного лікування спостерігали нормалізацію показників біоелектричної активності, зменшення парафункціональних проявів у м’язах та частоти спалахів спонтанної активності м’язів у стані спокою, нормалізація середньої амплітуди біопотенціалів у стані активності, відсутність фрагментацій, покращення синхронності та координації скорочень обстежених м’язів при усіх патологіях прикусу.

Висновки. Проведене ортодонтичне лікування забезпечило відновлення нейром’язового балансу зубощелепного апарату пацієнтів із різними патологіями прикусу, що має сприятливий вплив на корекцію мовленнєвих порушень.
Pesquisas em design, gestão e tecnologia de Têxtil e Moda: volume 7
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Italiano Isabel Cristina , Marcicano João Paulo ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Ramos Júlia Buraque ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Held Maria Sílvia Barros de ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Sanches Regina Aparecida ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades
Published: January 2019

Este livro é parte da coleção “Pesquisas em Design, Gestão e Tecnologia de Têxtil e Moda” e tem como principal objetivo contribuir para o desenvolvimento científico, tecnológico, social, cultural e artístico em Têxtil e Moda. Este trabalho e os anteriores vêm se tornando importantes veículos de divulgação do desdobramento e dos resultados de pesquisas na área, a partir de trabalhos desenvolvidos em nível de pós-graduação no Brasil e no exterior. A coleção apresenta abordagens e métodos interdisciplinares e inovadores, com potencial de utilização tanto no âmbito acadêmico e da pesquisa como fora deles.
Manual técnico e de operação: sistema de monitoramento de turbidez
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Costa Ernane José Xavier , Arce Aldo Ivan Céspedes ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos
Published: January 2019

O Manual foi elaborado no intuito de orientar sobre o uso do sistema de monitoramento remoto da turbidez de água, desenvolvido com o apoio da Fundação Nacional de Saúde (FUNASA) em parceria com o Laboratório de Física Aplicada e Computacional (LAFAC) da FZEA-USP. O documento apresenta uma introdução à instrumentação eletrônica e aborda os aspectos operacionais necessários para usar o equipamento desenvolvido. Com relação ao sistema de medida, são apresentados termos técnicos e o estado da arte da instrumentação eletrônica. No que se refere ao sistema de monitoramento apresentado no Manual, as informações permitem que o documento seja utilizado em capacitações de técnicos. Além disso, procurou-se manter uma correlação entre as questões práticas e teóricas de forma a propiciar o entendimento do público interessado.
Ações de prevenção, promoção e proteção à saúde no ambiente escolar vinculadas ao aprimoramento profissional e CRNUTRI/FSP/USP
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Santos Camila Vieira dos , Silva Maria Elisabeth Machado Pinto e ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Vieira Viviane Laudelino ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Andrade Samantha Caesar de ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública
Published: January 2019

A publicação é um produto do Programa de Aprimoramento Profissional (PAP) de Nutrição em Saúde Pública, que visa à formação e à capacitação profissionais na área da saúde, com o emprego de uma metodologia de aprendizagem com foco no treinamento em serviço, sob supervisão de profissional qualificado, em instituições de saúde. Essa obra se destina aos profissionais da área da saúde inseridos em ambientes escolares. O projeto traz a visão, conhecimento, aprendizado, etapas de planejamento, estratégias e execução de atividades em saúde, bem como as dificuldades encontradas e soluções propostas por meio de profissionais atuando em ações de prevenção, promoção e proteção à saúde no ambiente escolar.
Ambient Air Pollution Is Associated With HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Dysfunction in Healthy Adults
Authors: Li Jianping , Zhou Changping , Xu Hongbing , Brook Robert D. , Liu Shengcong , Yi Tieci , Wang Yang , Feng Baihuan , Zhao Mingming , Wang Xu , Zhao Qian , Chen Jie , Song Xiaoming , Wang Tong , Liu Shuo , Zhang Yi , Wu Rongshan , Gao Jianing , Pan Bing , Pennathur Subramaniam , Rajagopalan Sanjay , Huo Yong , Zheng Lemin , Huang Wei
Published: January 2019

Objective—

We aimed to assess whether exposure to higher levels of ambient air pollution impairs HDL (high-density lipoprotein) function and to elucidate the underlying biological mechanisms potentially involved.

Approach and Results—

In the Beijing AIRCHD study (Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Dysfunction in Healthy Adults), 73 healthy adults (23.3±5.4 years) were followed-up with 4 repeated study visits in 2014 to 2016. During each visit, ambient air pollution concentrations, HDL function metrics, and parameters of inflammation and oxidative stress were measured. Average daily concentrations of ambient particulate matter in diameter <2.5 μm were 62.9 µg/m
3
(8.1–331.0 µg/m
3
). We observed significant decreases in HDL cholesterol efflux capacity of 2.3% (95% CI, −4.3 to −0.3) to 5.0% (95% CI, −7.6 to −2.4) associated with interquartile range increases in moving average concentrations of particulate matter in diameter <2.5 μm and traffic-related air pollutants (black carbon, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide) during the 1 to 7 days before each participant’s clinic visit. Higher ambient air pollutant levels were also associated with significant reductions in circulating HDL cholesterol and apoA-I (apolipoprotein A-I), as well as elevations in HDL oxidation index, oxidized LDL (low-density lipoprotein), malondialdehyde, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein.

Conclusions—

Higher ambient air pollution concentrations were associated with impairments in HDL functionality, potentially because of systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. These novel findings further our understanding of the mechanisms whereby air pollutants promote cardiometabolic disorders.
Adherence to Guideline-Directed Stroke Prevention Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation Is Achievable
Authors: Piccini Jonathan P. , Xu Haolin , Cox Margueritte , Matsouaka Roland A. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Butler Javed , Curtis Anne B. , Desai Nihar , Fang Margaret , McCabe Pamela J. , Page II Robert L. , Turakhia Mintu , Russo Andrea M. , Knight Bradley P. , Sidhu Mandeep , Hurwitz Jodie L. , Ellenbogen Kenneth A. , Lewis William R. ,   For the Get With The Guidelines-AFIB Clinical Working Group and Hospitals
Published: January 2019

Background:

Efforts to improve prescription of oral anticoagulation (OAC) drugs in patients with atrial fibrillation have had limited success in improving guideline adherence.

Methods:

We evaluated adherence to the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association performance measures for OAC in eligible patients with a CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score ≥2 and trends in prescription over time in the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines–AFIB (atrial fibrillation) registry. Adjusted associations with in-hospital outcomes were also determined. The cohort included 33 235 patients with a CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score ≥2 who were admitted for atrial fibrillation and were enrolled at 115 sites between January 1, 2013, and September 31, 2017.

Results:

The median (25th, 75th percentile) age was 73 years (65, 81 years); 51% were female; and the median (25th, 75th percentile) CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc score was 4 (3, 5). At admission, 16 206 (59.5%) of 27 221 patients with a previous diagnosis of atrial fibrillation were taking OAC agents, and OAC drug use at admission was associated with a lower adjusted odds of in-hospital ischemic stroke (odds ratio, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.24–0.59;
P
<0.0001). At discharge, prescription of OAC in eligible patients (no contraindications) was 93.5% (n=25 499 of 27 270). In a sensitivity analysis, when excluding only strict contraindications (4.6%, n=1497 of 32 806), OAC prescription at discharge was 80.3%. OAC prescription at discharge was higher in those aged ≤75 years, men, those with heart failure, those with previous atrial fibrillation ablation, and those with rhythm control (
P
<0.0001 for all). OAC use was lowest in Hispanic patients (90.2%,
P
<0.0001). Prescription of OAC at discharge in eligible patients improved over time from 79.9% to 96.6% (
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions:

Among hospitals participating in the GWTG-AFIB quality improvement program, OAC prescription at discharge in eligible guideline-indicated patients increased significantly and improved consistently over time. These data confirm that high-level adherence to guideline-recommended stroke prevention is achievable.
Deleting Full Length Titin Versus the Titin M-Band Region Leads to Differential Mechanosignaling and Cardiac Phenotypes
Authors: Radke Michael H. , Polack Christopher , Methawasin Mei , Fink Claudia , Granzier Henk L. , Gotthardt Michael
Published: January 2019

Background:

Titin is a giant elastic protein that spans the half-sarcomere from Z-disk to M-band. It acts as a molecular spring and mechanosensor and has been linked to striated muscle disease. The pathways that govern titin-dependent cardiac growth and contribute to disease are diverse and difficult to dissect.

Methods:

To study titin deficiency versus dysfunction, the authors generated and compared striated muscle specific knockouts (KOs) with progressive postnatal loss of the complete titin protein by removing exon 2 (E2-KO) or an M-band truncation that eliminates proper sarcomeric integration, but retains all other functional domains (M-band exon 1/2 [M1/2]-KO). The authors evaluated cardiac function, cardiomyocyte mechanics, and the molecular basis of the phenotype.

Results:

Skeletal muscle atrophy with reduced strength, severe sarcomere disassembly, and lethality from 2 weeks of age were shared between the models. Cardiac phenotypes differed considerably: loss of titin leads to dilated cardiomyopathy with combined systolic and diastolic dysfunction—the absence of M-band titin to cardiac atrophy and preserved function. The elastic properties of M1/2-KO cardiomyocytes are maintained, while passive stiffness is reduced in the E2-KO. In both KOs, we find an increased stress response and increased expression of proteins linked to titin-based mechanotransduction (CryAB, ANKRD1, muscle LIM protein, FHLs, p42, Camk2d, p62, and Nbr1). Among them, FHL2 and the M-band signaling proteins p62 and Nbr1 are exclusively upregulated in the E2-KO, suggesting a role in the differential pathology of titin truncation versus deficiency of the full-length protein. The differential stress response is consistent with truncated titin contributing to the mechanical properties in M1/2-KOs, while low titin levels in E2-KOs lead to reduced titin-based stiffness and increased strain on the remaining titin molecules.

Conclusions:

Progressive depletion of titin leads to sarcomere disassembly and atrophy in striated muscle. In the complete knockout, remaining titin molecules experience increased strain, resulting in mechanically induced trophic signaling and eventually dilated cardiomyopathy. The truncated titin in M1/2-KO helps maintain the passive properties and thus reduces mechanically induced signaling. Together, these findings contribute to the molecular understanding of why titin mutations differentially affect cardiac growth and have implications for genotype-phenotype relations that support a personalized medicine approach to the diverse titinopathies.
Glenodinium triquetrum Ehrenb. is a species not of Heterocapsa F.Stein but of Kryptoperidinium Er.Lindem. (Kryptoperidiniaceae, Peridiniales)
Authors: GOTTSCHLING MARC , TILLMANN URBAN , ELBRÄCHTER MALTE , KUSBER WOLF-HENNING , HOPPENRATH MONA
Published: January 2019

N/A
Gravesia serratifolia (Melastomataceae: Sonerileae), a new species from Marojejy National Park, Madagascar
Authors: ALMEDA FRANK , RANARIVELO HERITIANA
Published: January 2019

Gravesia serratifolia, a new species from upper elevations of Marojejy National Park in northeastern Madagascar, is herein described, illustrated, mapped, and compared with similar species. It is readily characterized by its sparingly branched habit, leaf blades coarsely serrate with a moderate to sparse lepidote indumentum on both surfaces, inflorescence of few-flowered dichasia, calyx obsolete or evident as depressed truncate undulations with prominent calyx teeth that are laterally compressed when fresh, filaments with rusty-brown glandlike indumentum, and dorso-basal staminal appendages linear-oblong and widely spreading to coiled. A conservation assessment of Vulnerable is recommended for this species based on IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
Typification of some names of Graffenrieda (Melastomataceae: Merianieae)
Authors: MURILLO-SERNA JHON STEVEN , MICHELANGELI FABIÁN A. , ALZATE-GUARÍN FERNANDO
Published: January 2019

In order to provide nomenclature and taxonomic clarity, nine lectotypes are designated for plants currently circumscribed in Graffenrieda. In addition, the typification for some species was analyzed and clarified and we discuss the occurrence of three cases of inadvertent lectotypifications.
Ixchelia kochii (Violaceae, Rinoreeae), a new species from western Mexico and the third one of the genus
Authors: GUZMÁN RAMÓN CUEVAS , RODRÍGUEZ ENRIQUE V. SÁNCHEZ , LÓPEZ NORA M. NÚÑEZ
Published: January 2019

Ixchelia kochii Cuevas (Violaceae, Rinoreeae), a new species from western Mexico, is described and illustrated; it constitutes the third species of a recently described genus endemic to Mexico and Central America. The species grows in ecotones between tropical subdeciduous forest and montane cloud forest. The species of the genus are compared, and their relationships discussed.
Cymbidium dianlan, nom. nov. for C. yunnanensis G.Q.Zhang & S.R.Lan (Orchidaceae) from China
Authors: HE HAI
Published: January 2019

The epithet of recently published Cymbidium yunnanensis G.Q.Zhang & S.R.Lan in Zhang et al. (2019: 155) does not agree with the gender of the generic name. This is a correctable error based on Art. 23.5 of ICN (Turland et al. 2018) and it should be C. yunnanense G.Q.Zhang & S.R.Lan. However, it is a later homonym blocked by C. yunnanense Schlechter (1919: 74). To make the name of this new taxon applicable, the illegitimate name C. yunnanensis G.Q.Zhang & S.R.Lan is here replaced by C. dianlan H.He. The epithet dianlan is from the pinyin of two Chinese characters: dian means Yunnan and lan orchid, which take the same meaning of the suggested Chinese name of this new orchid by Zhang & Lan in Zhang et al. (2019). In Flora of China, Liu et al. (2009) has treated C. yunnanense Schltr. as a synonym of C. goeringii (H.G.Reichenbach 1845: 334) H.G.Reichenbach (1852: 547).
A revision of male ants of the Malagasy region (Hymenoptera: Formicidae): Key to genera of the subfamily Dolichoderinae
Authors: YOSHIMURA MASASHI , FISHER BRIAN L.
Published: January 2019

Keys to the males of the Dolichoderinae ant genera known from the Southwest Indian Ocean islands (Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, Reunion, and Seychelles) are provided. Diagnoses, discussion, illustrations, and a character matrix are provided for all five extant genera from the region: Aptinoma, Ochetellus, Ravavy, Tapinoma, and Technomyrmex. A male-based synopsis of the subfamily Dolichoderinae based on the five genera is also given. The previous diagnostic characters for the included genera are reconsidered. Terminologies for male genitalia and wing cells are reviewed.
A new leafhopper genus and four new species from the Grassland Biome of South Africa (Hemiptera, Cicadellidae)
Authors: STILLER M.
Published: January 2019

A new endemic deltocephaline leafhopper, Tetramelasma gen.n. is described from the Grassland Biome of South Africa, comprising four new species: T. litopyx sp. n., T. nodosatha sp. n., T. scolosatha sp. n. and T. tanyphysis sp. n. Two paired dark markings on the vertex of the head are striking features of this genus and it is found in association with a number of grass species usually at high altitudes in the Grassland Biome. Species of this genus are characterized in the male by a short, truncated plate with a dorsal sclerotized process, the aedeagus with a long, slender shaft that is fused with the connective. Tribal placement in Deltocephalini is based on the fusion between the aedeagus and connective. The style has the posterior apophysis short and hollow or elongate and somewhat serrated. Females are characterized by the sternite 7 that is deeply invaginated along the posterior margin or only with a shallow notch, semicircular and sclerotized laterally.
The genus Haedropleura (Neogastropoda, Toxoglossa=Conoidea) in the Plio–Quaternary of the Mediterranean basin
Authors: SCARPONI DANIELE , BELLA GIANO DELLA , CEREGATO ALESSANDRO
Published: January 2019

The Plio–Quaternary representatives of Haedropleura Monterosato in Bucquoy, Dautzenberg & Dollfus, 1883 are revised. Protoconch and teleoconch characters of 84 fossil and live-collected specimens belonging to the genus, mainly from the Mediterranean basin, were quantitatively assessed. The characters examined allow better delimitation of variability in the genus along with the recognition of eight morphotypes. In particular, four morphotypes were attributed to known species: H. septangularis (Montagu), H. bucciniformis (Bellardi), H. contii (Bellardi) and H. secalina (Philippi), whereas two are described as new species: H. formosa and H. parva. Another two morphotypes represented in our material by few, poorly preserved specimens remain undescribed. We designate three lectotypes (H. bucciniformis, H. secalina and H. septangularis) in order to stabilize usage of the names. The Haedropleura α -diversity in the Plio–Quaternary of the Mediterranean basin is also discussed.
A new Aceria species (Acari: Eriophyoidea) on Echinops ritro L. subsp. ruthenicus (M.Bieb.) Nyman (Asteraceae) from Serbia and a supplement to the original description of Aceria brevicincta (Nalepa 1898)
Authors: VIDOVIĆ BILJANA
Published: January 2019

A new species of eriophyoid mite, Aceria banatica n. sp. inhabiting Echinops ritro L. subsp. ruthenicus (M.Bieb.) Nyman has been described from Serbia. A comparison of characters between A. banatica n. sp. and Aceria echinopsi Boczek and Nuzzaci 1988, the only other species known from Echinops sp., is given. A supplementary description of Aceria brevicincta (Nalepa 1898) found on Jurinea mollis (L.) Rchb. in Serbia is included along with a comparison of taxonomic characters of this population with previously described specimens from Hungary and the poor original description from Austria.
A new species of Phycodes from China (Lepidoptera: Sesioidea: Brachodidae)
Authors: KALLIES AXEL , WANG MIN , ARITA YUTAKA
Published: January 2019

Brachodidae are a small family of fewer than 140 described species that are distributed worldwide except in North America. They reach their greatest diversity in the tropical regions of Asia and South America; however, many species occur in the Palaearctic region and in Australia, but these are restricted to a small number of genera. More than 40 species are known from the Oriental region and many more await description (Kallies 1998, 2000, 2004).