bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salivary Antioxidant Status in Patients with Oral Lichen Planus: Correlation with Clinical Signs and Evolution during Treatment withChamaemelum nobile
Authors: Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Aznar-Cayuela Cristina , Rubio Camila P. , Tecles Fernando , Ceron Jose J. , López-Jornet Pia
Published: May 2018

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease, which manifests as a succession of outbreaks. OLP was associated with salivary oxidative stress. Randomized, double blind, parallel-group study was performed. The sample consisted of 55 clinically and histopathologically diagnosed OLP patients. Twenty-six patients were treated with 2%Chamaemelum nobilegel and 29 with a placebo. Nonstimulated (basal) saliva was collected on the first day of the study and 4 weeks later. Salivary total antioxidant status (TAS) was evaluated by four different methods: two TAC (6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid) equivalent antioxidant capacity methods (TAC1 and TAC2), cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP). At baseline (T1), no statistically significant differences were detected in any of the TAS analytes between the two groups of patients. After four weeks of treatment, a statistically significant increase was detected in FRAP in the placebo group (0.323 [0.090–0.467] versus 0.406 [0.197–0.848] mmol/g⁎10-3) (P<0.05). Significant correlations were observed between pain and drainage and TAC1, CUPRAC, and FRAP and between xerostomia and the TAC1, TAC2, CUPRAC, and FRAP. The results of the present study showed that in patients with OLP increases of TAS in saliva are associated with increase in pain and xerostomia and decrease in drainage, suggesting a worsening condition of the patient. The use ofChamaemelum nobilegel would be recommended for disease stabilization.
Orbital Pseudotumor as an Extrahepatic Complication of Chronic HCV Infection
Authors: Huang Owen , Shah Tina , Sundarapandiyan Divya , Akiyama Matthew J.
Published: May 2018

We present a patient who was admitted for eye swelling, pain, and discharge, with CT orbits with contrast demonstrating inflammation and enlargement of the lacrimal glands and surrounding tissue. He was found to have an HCV infection for unknown duration upon further investigation. All other workup (autoimmune, rheumatic, and infectious) was unrevealing. The patient was diagnosed with orbital pseudotumor as an extrahepatic complication of chronic HCV infection, and he was managed with prednisone which dramatically decreased his eye swelling and pain. Steroid treatment may serve as a bridge to suppress symptoms of extrahepatic manifestations, especially in ocular cases, while HCV-infected patients await treatment to eradicate their HCV infection.
Autoimmune Diseases and Their Manifestations on Oral Cavity: Diagnosis and Clinical Management
Authors: Saccucci Matteo , Di Carlo Gabriele , Bossù Maurizio , Giovarruscio Francesca , Salucci Alessandro , Polimeni Antonella
Published: May 2018

Oral signs are frequently the first manifestation of autoimmune diseases. For this reason, dentists play an important role in the detection of emerging autoimmune pathologies. Indeed, an early diagnosis can play a decisive role in improving the quality of treatment strategies as well as quality of life. This can be obtained thanks to specific knowledge of oral manifestations of autoimmune diseases. This review is aimed at describing oral presentations, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren syndrome, pemphigus vulgaris, mucous membrane pemphigoid, and Behcet disease.
Patterns of Change in Metabolic Capabilities of Sediment Microbial Communities in River and Lake Ecosystems
Authors: Oest Adam , Alsaffar Ali , Fenner Mitchell , Azzopardi Dominic , Tiquia-Arashiro Sonia M.
Published: May 2018

Information on the biodegradation potential of lake and river microbial communities is essential for watershed management. The water draining into the lake ecosystems often carries a significant amount of suspended sediments, which are transported by rivers and streams from the local drainage basin. The organic carbon processing in the sediments is executed by heterotrophic microbial communities, whose activities may vary spatially and temporally. Thus, to capture and apprehend some of these variabilities in the sediments, we sampled six sites: three from the Saint Clair River (SC1, SC2, and SC3) and three from Lake Saint Clair in the spring, summer, fall, and winter of 2016. Here, we investigated the shifts in metabolic profiles of sediment microbial communities, along Saint Clair River and Lake Saint Clair using Biolog EcoPlates, which test for the oxidation of 31 carbon sources. The number of utilized substrates was generally higher in the river sediments (upstream) than in the lake sediments (downstream), suggesting a shift in metabolic activities among microbial assemblages. Seasonal and site-specific differences were also found in the numbers of utilized substrates, which were similar in the summer and fall, and spring and winter. The sediment microbial communities in the summer and fall showed more versatile substrate utilization patterns than spring and winter communities. The functional fingerprint analyses clearly distinguish the sediment microbial communities from the lake sites (downstream more polluted sites), which showed a potential capacity to use more complex carbon substrates such as polymers. This study establishes a close linkage between physical and chemical properties (temperature and organic matter content) of lake and river sediments and associated microbial functional activities.
Low-Dose Fluoxetine in Four Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder Improves Self-Injurious Behavior, ADHD-Like Symptoms, and Irritability
Authors: Lucchelli Juan Pablo , Bertschy Gilles
Published: May 2018

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is defined by the copresence of two core symptoms: alteration in social communication and repetitive behaviors and/or restricted interests. In ASD children and adults, irritability, self-injurious behavior (SIB), and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders- (ADHD-) like symptoms are regularly observed. In these situations, pharmacological treatments are sometimes used. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors- (SSRI-) based treatments have been the subject of several publications: case reports and controlled studies, both of which demonstrate efficacy on the symptoms mentioned above, even if no consensus has been reached concerning their usage. In this article four clinical cases of children diagnosed with ASD and who also present ADHD-like symptoms and/or SIB and/or other heteroaggressive behaviors or irritability and impulsivity treated with low doses of fluoxetine are presented.
A New Hybridization Approach between the Fireworks Algorithm and Grey Wolf Optimizer Algorithm
Authors: Barraza Juan , Rodríguez Luis , Castillo Oscar , Melin Patricia , Valdez Fevrier
Published: May 2018

The main aim of this paper is to present a new hybridization approach for combining two powerful metaheuristics, one inspired by physics and the other one based on bioinspired phenomena. The first metaheuristic is based on physics laws and imitates the explosion of the fireworks and is called Fireworks Algorithm; the second metaheuristic is based on the behavior of the grey wolf and belongs to swarm intelligence methods, and this method is called the Grey Wolf Optimizer algorithm. For this work we studied and analyzed the advantages of the two methods and we propose to enhance the weakness of both methods, respectively, with the goal of obtaining a new hybridization between the Fireworks Algorithm (FWA) and the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO), which is denoted as FWA-GWO, and that is presented in more detail in this work. In addition, we are presenting simulation results on a set of problems that were tested in this paper with three different metaheuristics (FWA, GWO, and FWA-GWO) and these problems form a set of 22 benchmark functions in total. Finally, a statistical study with the goal of comparing the three different algorithms through a hypothesis test (Z-test) is presented for supporting the conclusions of this work.
A Retrospective Study Analyzing the Appropriateness of Initial Treatment of Clostridium difficile in Patients with Active Malignancy
Authors: Fisher Aaron , Khanal Pradeep , Gniado Ewa , Khaddour Leila , Orosey Molly , Hader Ismail , Yadav Siddhartha , Halalau Alexandra
Published: May 2018

Background. Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is the leading cause of hospital-associated gastrointestinal illness. Previous studies reported that patients with active malignancy are at high risk for CDIs, and yet they are still classified as nonsevere CDI and initially treated with metronidazole. Our aim is to investigate the need for the escalation of antibiotic therapy in patients with CDI and active cancer treated with oral metronidazole versus oral vancomycin. Methods. This is a retrospective study of adult patients admitted with CDI and any underlying active malignancy at Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan, from January 2008 to December 2014. Inclusion criteria included age > 18 years old, polymerase chain reaction- (PCR-) proven CDI, and active malignancy. Results. 197 patients were included in the final analysis. 44.8% of the metronidazole group required escalation of therapy compared to 15.2% in the vancomycin group (p value = 0.001). 29.8% of the combination group (metronidazole and vancomycin) underwent deescalation of antibiotics, which was significantly higher compared to 2.2% of patients in the vancomycin group (p value < 0.001). Discussion. Our results support the initial use of vancomycin or a combination (metronidazole and vancomycin) versus metronidazole in patients with CDI and active malignancy.
Optimal Design for an Extruder Head Runner Based on Response Surface Method and Simulated Annealing Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Haichao , Jiang Zhen , Li Wenchao , Wang Guolin , Tu Yongjie
Published: May 2018

The head runner of a rubber extruder is important for controlling rubber flow and improving extrudate quality. To clarify the effect of the structure parameters of the head runner of a doubleplex tread extruder on extrudate quality and obtain high-quality rubber extrusions, a finite element model of the down head runner was established. The extrusion process was analyzed through numerical simulations, wherein the Bird–Carreau constitutive equation and Navier slip law were used along with some computational methods, such as quadratic interpolation of velocity and linear interpolation of pressure and viscosity. The Newton iteration algorithm was used for numerical calculations. The mean-square deviation of velocity (SDV) of rubber flow in the outlet cross section was selected as the evaluation objective. A Placket–Burman design was used to select three key factors—angles A and B and outlet width D—from among eight runner structure parameters affecting the velocity variance. By using central composite design (CCD), the quadratic response surface model using the three key factors was established, and the influence law of a combination of the three key factors on SDV was obtained. The response surface model was optimized using the simulated annealing (SA) algorithm, and the optimal key factors of the head runner were obtained. The optimal runner design realizes a more uniform velocity distribution in the outlet cross section. Furthermore, a comparison of the simulated flow velocities of the original and optimal head runners at different inlet flow ratios and temperatures indicates that the optimal head runner flow velocity improves the extrusion quality. Thus, an optimal runner with optimal key factors was manufactured. Test results of the rubber flow state indicated that the flow is regular and that warping disappears. The proposed optimization strategy can be used practically for improving the head runner design, shortening the product development cycle, and reducing the production cost.
Bibliometric Analysis of Global Scientific Research on lncRNA: A Swiftly Expanding Trend
Authors: Zhai Xiao , Zhao Jian , Wang Yiran , Wei Xianzhao , Li Gengwu , Yang Yilin , Chen Ziqiang , Bai Yushu , Wang Qijin , Chen Xiao , Li Ming
Published: May 2018

To investigate trends in long-noncoding (lnc) RNA research systematically, we compared the contribution of publications among different regions, institutions, and authors. Publications on lncRNA were retrieved from Web of Science (WoS) from 1975 to 2017. A total of 3879 papers were identified, and together they were cited 62967 times. The literature on lncRNA had been continuously growing since 2006, and the expansion might continue at a rapid pace until around 2021. China contributed the greatest proportion (63.47%) of lncRNA publications, and the USA ranked second in the number of publications (944 articles), while it had the highest citation frequency (43168 times) and H-index (97). The journal Oncotarget has the greatest number of publications on lncRNA research, with 305 papers. The keywords could be stratified into two clusters: cluster 1 (application) and cluster 2 (characteristics). Correspondingly, the “TNM stage,” “epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT),” “cell apoptosis,” and “overall survival” are research hotspots since 2015. Thus, research on lncRNA showed a swiftly expanding trend, with China making the largest contribution. The focus on lncRNA is gradually shifting from “characteristics” to “application.”
Mediastinal Ectopic Pancreas with Abundant Endocrine Cells Coexisting with Mediastinal Cyst and Thymic Hyperplasia
Authors: Snak Yosinta , Dwianingsih Ery Kus , Sumpono Auliya Suluk Brilliant , Panji Rovi , Rahman Afif , Ghozali Ahmad , Amr Samir S.
Published: May 2018

Mediastinal ectopic pancreas is a rare condition with only 28 cases reported in the literature. Here we report a 21-year-old female patient who presented with dyspnea and intermittent severe chest pain of 7 years’ duration. Computerized tomography scan (CT-scan) of the chest revealed a mediastinal cyst. The cyst was resected and it demonstrated on histopathological examination the presence of pancreatic tissue with increased number of islets of Langerhans, coexistent with mediastinal cyst and thymic hyperplasia. We made a review of all previously reported cases of this entity.
Mu Suppression Is Sensitive to Observational Practice but Results in Different Patterns of Activation in Comparison with Physical Practice
Authors: Alhajri Najah , Hodges Nicola J. , Zwicker Jill G. , Virji-Babul Naznin
Published: May 2018

Research has shown the effectiveness of observational practice for motor learning, but there continues to be debate about the mechanisms underlying effectiveness. Although cortical processes can be moderated during observation, after both physical and observational practice, how these processes change with respect to behavioural measures of learning has not been studied. Here we compared short-term physical and observational practice during the acquisition and retention of a novel motor task to evaluate how each type of practice modulates EEG mu rhythm (8–13 Hz). Thirty healthy individuals were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) physical practice (PP), (2) observational practice (OP), and (3) no practice (NP) control. There were four testing stages: baseline EEG, practice, postpractice observation, and delayed retention. There was significant bilateral suppression of mu rhythm during PP but only left lateralized mu suppression during OP. In the postpractice observation phase, mu suppression was bilateral and larger after PP compared to that after OP. NP control showed no evidence of suppression and was significantly different to both the OP and PP groups. When comparing the three groups in retention, the groups did not differ with respect to tracing times, but the PP group showed fewer errors, especially in comparison to the NP group. Therefore, although the neurophysiological measures index changes in the OP group, which are similar but moderated in comparison to PP, changes in these processes are not manifest in observational practice outcomes when assessed in a delayed retention test.
Does Adding Silver Nanoparticles to Leukocyte- and Platelet-Rich Fibrin Improve Its Properties?
Authors: Khorshidi Hooman , Haddadi Pardis , Raoofi Saeed , Badiee Parisa , Dehghani Nazhvani Ali
Published: May 2018

Objectives. Leucocyte- and platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) membrane can be used in various regenerative treatments. In the case of classical heterologous membrane exposure, microorganisms can be colonized on it and jeopardize the success of treatment. The aim of this study was to compare the antibacterial, mechanical, and histologic characteristics of the L-PRF membrane before and after the addition of silver nanoparticles (SNP). Materials and Method. This study was performed on 10 volunteer men aged 25-35 years. 20 ml whole bloods were collected from each person and L-PRFs were made by routine and SNP modified method. Mechanical, antibacterial, and histological properties were evaluated. Results. The antibacterial efficacy of L-PRF and nanosilver-modified L-PRF was presented as Klebsiella pneumonia had growth on the L-PRF membrane after 12 hours. After 24 hours, Klebsiella pneumonia and Streptococcus viridans had growth on L-PRF and only Klebsiella pneumonia had growth on SNP-L-PRF. The tensile strength and stiffness were significantly higher in the SNP-L-PRF. Precipitation of the SNPs was patchy in the outer layers and quite homogeneous in the inner core. Conclusion. Modification of L-PRF with SNP improves the mechanical properties and antibacterial activity of the L-PRF. It can play an important role in regenerative procedures.
Restoring Inflammatory Mediator Balance after Sofosbuvir-Induced Viral Clearance in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Saraiva Geórgia Nascimento , Rosário Natalia Fonseca do , Medeiros Thalia , Leite Paulo Emílio Côrrea , Lacerda Gilmar de Souza , Andrade Thaís Guaraná de , de Azeredo Elzinandes Leal , Ancuta Petronela , Almeida Jorge Reis , Xavier Analúcia Rampazzo , Silva Andrea Alice
Published: May 2018

This study aimed at analyzing circulating levels of inflammatory and profibrogenic cytokines in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection undergoing therapy with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAA) and correlating these immune biomarkers with liver disease status. We studied 88 Brazilian monoinfected chronic hepatitis C patients receiving interferon- (IFN-) free sofosbuvir-based regimens for 12 or 24 weeks, followed-up before therapy initiation and three months after the end of treatment. Liver disease was determined by transient elastography, in addition to APRI and FIB-4 indexes. Analysis of 30 immune mediators was carried out by multiplex or enzymatic immunoassays. Sustained virological response rate was 98.9%. Serum levels of cytokines were increased in HCV-infected patients when compared to control group. CCL-2, CCL-3, CCL-4, CXCL-8, CXCL-10, IL-1β, IL-15, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10, TGF-β, FGFb, and PAI-1 decreased significantly after antiviral therapy, reaching values similar to noninfected controls. TGF-βand suPAR levels were associated with fibrosis/cirrhosis. Also, we observed amelioration in hepatic parameters after DAA treatment. Together, our results suggest that viral control induced by IFN-free DAA therapy restores inflammatory mediators in association with improvement in liver function.
Efficacy of Adjunctive Bioactive Materials in the Treatment of Periodontal Intrabony Defects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou Shuai , Sun Chengjia , Huang Shaohui , Wu Ximing , Zhao Yan , Pan Chunling , Wang Hongyan , Liu Junchao , Li Qian , Kou Yurong
Published: May 2018

Objectives. Lots of bioactive materials have been additionally applied for the treatment of periodontal intrabony defect. However, there is dearth of studies to systematically evaluate the supplementary role of them in periodontal regeneration. The goal of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the adjunctive effects of bioactive materials such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), enamel matrix derivative (EMD), and amnion membrane (AM) on the outcomes of bone grafting treatment for periodontal intrabony defects.Methods. Articles published before December 2017 were searched electronically in three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central), with no date or language limits. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the assessment of effectiveness of the four biomaterials in conjunction with demineralized freeze-dried bone allografts (DFDBA) in the treatment of periodontal intrabony defects were enrolled in this meta-analysis. Data were analyzed with STATA 12.Results. Nine studies were included. PRF and PRP significantly improved pocket depth (PD) reduction and clinical attachment loss (CAL) gain. Only PRF exhibited a positive result in recession reduction (RecRed). Only PRP showed a statistically significant increase in bone fill. AM merely gained more CAL. EMD did not improve any clinical outcome.Conclusion. Our data suggest that PRF/PRP could be taken as a preferred adjunct to facilitate periodontal regeneration of intrabony defects.
CD38 Deficiency Promotes Inflammatory Response through Activating Sirt1/NF-κB-Mediated Inhibition of TLR2 Expression in Macrophages
Authors: Qian Yisong , Chen Chuqiao , Ma Leliang , Wang Ziwei , Wang Ling-Fang , Zuo Li , Yang Yaqin , Huang Xiang , Jiang Meixiu , Wang Xiaolei , Shi Huidong , Fu Mingui , Deng Ke-Yu , Xin Hong-Bo
Published: May 2018

CD38 was first identified as a lymphocyte-specific antigen and then has been found to be widely expressed in a variety of cell types. The functions of CD38 are involved in numerous biological processes including immune responses. Here, we showed the downregulations of both TLR2 mRNA and protein in macrophages from CD38−/− mice and in CD38 knockdown RAW264.7 cells. Several NF-κB-binding motifs in the promoter region of the TLR2 gene were identified by the bioinformatics analysis and were confirmed by the luciferase activity assay with the different truncated TLR2 promoters. CD38 deficiency resulted in the reduction of NF-κB p65 and acetyl-NF-κB p65 (Ac-p65) levels as determined by Western blot. The expression of Sirt1 did not change, but an increased activity of Sirt1 was observed in CD38-deficient macrophages. Inhibition of the Sirt1/NF-κB signaling pathway resulted in downregulation of TLR2 expression in RAW264.7 cells. However, re-expression of CD38 in the knockdown clones reversed the effect on Sirt1/NF-κB/TLR2 signaling, which is NAD-dependent. Moreover, the inflammatory cytokines including G-CSF, IL-1alpha, IL-6, MCP-1, MIP-1alpha, and RANTES were increased in CD38 knockdown RAW264.7 cells. Taken together, our data demonstrated that CD38 deficiency enhances inflammatory response in macrophages, and the mechanism may be partly associated with increased Sirt1 activity, which promoted NF-κB deacetylation and then inhibited expression of the TLR2 gene. Obviously, our study may provide an insight into the molecular mechanisms in CD38-mediated inflammation.
Sexuality after Male-to-Female Gender Affirmation Surgery
Authors: Hess J. , Henkel A. , Bohr J. , Rehme C. , Panic A. , Panic L. , Rossi Neto R. , Hadaschik B. , Hess Y.
Published: May 2018

Male-to-Female (MtF) gender affirmation surgery (GAS) comprises the creation of a functional and aesthetic perineogenital complex. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of GAS on sexuality. We retrospectively surveyed all 254 MtF transsexual patients who had undergone GAS with penile inversion vaginoplasty at the Department of Urology, University Hospital Essen, Germany, between 2004 and 2010. In total, we received 119 completed questionnaires after a median of 5.05 years since surgery. Of the study participants, 33.7% reported a heterosexual, 37.6% a lesbian, and 22.8% a bisexual orientation related to the self-perceived gender. Of those who had sexual intercourse, 55.8% rated their orgasms to be more intensive than before, with 20.8% who felt no difference. Most patients were satisfied with the sensitivity of the neoclitoris (73.9%) and with the depth of the neovaginal canal (67.1%). The self-estimated pleasure of sexual activity correlated significantly with neoclitoral sensitivity but not with neovaginal depth. There was a significant correlation between the ease with which patients were able to become sexually aroused and their ability to achieve orgasms. In conclusion, orgasms after surgery were experienced more intensely than before in the majority of women in our cohort and neoclitoral sensitivity seems to contribute to enjoyment of sexual activity to a greater extent than neovaginal depth.
A Review of the Triple Gains of Waste and the Way Forward for Ghana
Authors: Abalo Emmanuel Mawuli , Peprah Prince , Nyonyo Julius , Ampomah-Sarpong Rita , Agyemang-Duah Williams
Published: May 2018

The postcolonial waste management practices in Ghana have consistently been identified with the discarding and disposal of waste in open dumps, wetlands, and landfills. These practices have only contributed to the glaring poor sanitation in the cities of Ghana. Insignificant quantity of the waste generated ends up in recycling and/or composting units for reuse. Given the current growth of Ghana’s population, coupled with the emerging industrialisation, the country’s overdependence on hydropower for energy and natural resources for production alone is dangerous. This paper provides a holistic review of the gains from solid waste. The paper reaffirms that, through appropriate technologies, waste possesses the intrinsic potential to generate renewable energy, resources, and income. In recommending, the main objective of waste management practices in Ghana should be about exploring the economic potentials of waste. Thus, waste disposal should be the last resort, and not the first option in waste management practices in Ghana.
Crystal Structure and Biological Evaluation of Two Novel Organic-Inorganic Hybrid Materials as Antitumor Agents in the Treatment of Liver Cancer
Authors: Song Bao-Hua , Li Chen , An Gui-Feng
Published: May 2018

Two novel organic-inorganic hybrid materials {(Hbiz)6[AsIII2AsVMoVI18O62]}·H2O (1, biz = benzimidazole) and (dim)[AsIII2AsVMoVI18O62] [2, dim = 1,6-bis(imidazol)hexane] have been successfully obtained by using the molybdenum arsenate and different N donor organic compounds and determined through X-ray single-crystal diffraction technique. The in vitro cytotoxicity of compounds 1 and 2 was then investigated against three human liver tumor cell lines (SMMC7721, Bel-7402, and MHCC97) by MTT assay. It was found that the two compounds showed potent use as antitumor agents against the aforementioned cell lines.
Restorative Management of Severe Localized Tooth Wear Using a Supraoccluding Appliance: A 5-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Wong Tsz Leung , Botelho Michael George
Published: May 2018

This case report illustrates a novel conservative restorative management of a patient with bulimia nervosa who presented with severe localized upper palatal tooth wear and an anterior reverse overjet. This was achieved by using a localized bite raising or supraoccluding appliance, cemented on the lingual side of the lower anterior teeth to create interocclusal space, obviating the need for tooth reduction of the eroded upper palatal and incisal tooth surfaces. Surgical crown lengthening was performed to create a better aesthetic gingival architecture. All-ceramic restorations were provided on the upper anterior teeth to restore the tooth surface loss and provide a positive overbite and overjet. There was no complication or other observable biological change detected at the 5-year follow-up. The use of an appliance applying the supraoccluding technique, or Dahl concept, is a safe, conservative, and useful treatment option in the management of localized tooth wear.
Optimization of Hybrid Laminates with Extension-Shear Coupling
Authors: Cui Da , Li Daokui
Published: May 2018

The introduction of hybrid composites into the structure with coupling effect can greatly reduce the cost of materials. The expressions of stiffness coefficient, thermal stress, and thermal moment for hybrid laminates are derived based on the geometrical factors of laminates, and the necessary and sufficient conditions for the hybrid extension-shear-coupled laminates with immunity to hygrothermal shear distortion (HTSD) are further derived. The extension-shear-coupled effect of hybrid laminates is optimized with improved differential evolution algorithm. Results are presented for the hybrid laminates that consist of carbon fiber and glass fiber composite materials. The hygrothermal effect and extension-shear-coupled effect are simulated and verified, meanwhile the robustness of hybrid laminates is analyzed by Monte Carlo method.
Development and Assessment of a Transoral Robotic Surgery Curriculum to Train Otolaryngology Residents
Authors: White Joseph , Sharma Arun
Published: May 2018

Purpose of the Study: (1) To develop a multifaceted didactic and hands-on curriculum to prepare otolaryngology residents to perform transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and safely transition to the operating room. (2) To assess the effectiveness of the TORS curriculum. Procedures: Learning objectives were developed and a curriculum was formulated utilizing five unique modalities: focused didactic reading, online training modules, backpack console simulations, videos of TORS cases, and hands-on cadaveric dissections with the robotic surgical system in a simulated operating room. The trainees completed a nine-item self-assessment of their skill level using a Likert scale. Results: Five senior otolaryngology residents completed the TORS curriculum. Before and after the cadaveric dissections, there was improvement in each of the nine items assessed. Composite scores were calculated and there was significant improvement from predissection (15.2 ± 2.2) to postdissection (31.4 ± 1.9) (p = 0.002). Conclusions: The current study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing a multifaceted TORS curriculum which incorporates robotic cadaveric dissection for otolaryngology residents. Residents demonstrate marked improvement in skills with the TORS curriculum. A TORS curriculum which includes robotic cadaveric dissection can improve surgical skills and serve as a key component of residency TORS education.
Diagnostic Accuracy of F-18 FDG PET/CT for Preoperative Lymph Node Staging in Newly Diagnosed Bladder Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ha Hong Ku , Koo Phillip J. , Kim Seong-Jang
Published: May 2018

Aims: We aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for preoperative lymph node (LN) staging in newly diagnosed bladder cancer (BC) patients through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Patients and Methods: MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library database, from the earliest available date of indexing through June 30, 2017, were searched for studies evaluating the diagnostic performance of F-18 FDG PET/CT for preoperative LN staging in newly diagnosed BC. We determined the sensitivities and specificities across studies, calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR–), and constructed summary receiver operating characteristic curves. Results: Across 14 studies (785 patients), the pooled sensitivity was 0.57 (95% CI: 0.49–0.64) and the pooled specificity was 0.92 (95% CI: 0.87–0.95). The LR syntheses gave an overall LR+ of 7.4 (95% CI: 4.4–12.3) and an LR– of 0.47 (95% CI: 0.39–0.56). The pooled diagnostic odds ratio was 16 (95% CI: 9–28). Conclusions: F-18 FDG PET/CT shows a low sensitivity and high specificity for the detection of metastatic LNs in patients with newly diagnosed BC.
Successful Total Resection of an Orbital Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma with the Aid of Endovascular Embolization
Authors: Jamshidian-Tehrani Mansooreh , Eshraghi Bahram , Zarei Mohammad , Nozarian Zohreh , Rafizadeh Seyed Mohsen , Ghadimi Hadi
Published: May 2018

Hemangioendothelioma is rarely encountered in the orbit. We present a patient with a growing orbital mass for whom surgical excision was planned. Two previous attempts at removing the mass failed due to profuse bleeding. Endovascular embolization was performed before surgery to prevent massive hemorrhage. After embolization, retinal vascular accident (combined central retinal artery and vein occlusion) occurred. However, surgical excision (lateral orbitotomy and transcoronal craniotomy) was successful, and the vision improved postoperatively. Histopathologic examination and immunohistochemistry study confirmed the diagnosis of epithelioid hemangioendothelioma. The combined approach by a team of specialists, including an interventional radiologist performing preoperative embolization of the feeding vessel and joint surgery by a neurosurgeon and oculoplastic surgeon, was the key to the effective treatment of this vascular orbital neoplasm.
Cognitive-Behavioral Analysis System of Psychotherapy, Drug, or Their Combination for Persistent Depressive Disorder: Personalizing the Treatment Choice Using Individual Participant Data Network Metaregression
Authors: Furukawa Toshi A. , Efthimiou Orestis , Weitz Erica S. , Cipriani Andrea , Keller Martin B. , Kocsis James H. , Klein Daniel N. , Michalak Johannes , Salanti Georgia , Cuijpers Pim , Schramm Elisabeth
Published: May 2018

Background: Persistent depressive disorder is prevalent, disabling, and often difficult to treat. The cognitive-behavioral analysis system of psychotherapy (CBASP) is the only psychotherapy specifically developed for its treatment. However, we do not know which of CBASP, antidepressant pharmacotherapy, or their combination is the most efficacious and for which types of patients. This study aims to present personalized prediction models to facilitate shared decision-making in treatment choices to match patients’ characteristics and preferences based on individual participant data network metaregression. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search for randomized controlled trials comparing any two of CBASP, pharmacotherapy, or their combination and sought individual participant data from identified trials. The primary outcomes were reduction in depressive symptom severity for efficacy and dropouts due to any reason for treatment acceptability. Results: All 3 identified studies (1,036 participants) were included in the present analyses. On average, the combination therapy showed significant superiority over both monotherapies in terms of efficacy and acceptability, while the latter 2 treatments showed essentially similar results. Baseline depression, anxiety, prior pharmacotherapy, age, and depression subtypes moderated their relative efficacy, which indicated that for certain subgroups of patients either drug therapy or CBASP alone was a recommendable treatment option that is less costly, may have fewer adverse effects and match an individual patient’s preferences. An interactive web app (https://kokoro.med.kyoto-u.ac.jp/CBASP/prediction/) shows the predicted disease course for all possible combinations of patient characteristics. Conclusions: Individual participant data network metaregression enables treatment recommendations based on individual patient characteristics.
Six-Year Follow-Up of Fractional Flow Reserve-Guided Versus Angiography-Guided Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Fournier Stephane , Toth Gabor G. , De Bruyne Bernard , Johnson Nils P. , Ciccarelli Giovanni , Xaplanteris Panagiotis , Milkas Anastasios , Strisciuglio Teresa , Bartunek Jozef , Vanderheyden Marc , Wyffels Eric , Casselman Filip , Van Praet Frank , Stockman Bernard , Degrieck Ivan , Barbato Emanuele
Published: May 2018

Background—

Fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery has been associated with lower number of graft anastomoses, lower rate of on-pump surgery, and higher graft patency rate as compared with angiography-guided CABG surgery. However, no clinical benefit has been reported to date.

Methods and Results—

Consecutive patients (n=627) treated by CABG between 2006 and 2010 were retrospectively included. In 198 patients, at least 1 stenosis was grafted according to FFR (FFR-guided group), whereas in 429 patients all stenoses were grafted based on angiography (angiography-guided group). The 2 coprimary end points were overall death or myocardial infarction and major adverse cardiovascular events (composite of overall death, myocardial infarction, and target vessel revascularization) up to 6-year follow-up. In the FFR-guided group, patients were significantly younger (66 [57–73] versus 70 [63–76];
P
<0.001), more often male (82% versus 72%;
P
=0.008), and less often diabetic (21% versus 30%;
P
=0.023). Clinical follow-up (median, 85 [66–104] months) was analyzed in 396 patients after 1:1 propensity-score matching for these 3 variables. The rate of overall death or myocardial infarction was significantly lower in the FFR-guided (n=31 [16%] versus n=49 [25%]; hazard ratio, 0.59 [95% confidence interval, 0.38–0.93];
P
=0.020) as compared with the angiography-guided group. Major adverse cardiovascular events rate was also numerically lower in the FFR-guided than in the angiography-guided group (n=42 [21%] versus n=52 [26%]; hazard ratio, 0.77 [95% confidence interval, 0.51–1.16];
P
=0.21).

Conclusions—

FFR-guided CABG is associated with a significant reduction in the rate of overall death or myocardial infarction at 6-year follow-up as compared with angiography-guided CABG.
Psychological Essentialism in Serek ha-Yaḥad and the Two Spirits Treatise
Authors: Maiden Brett
Published: May 2018

This paper investigates the psychological mechanisms that underpin Qumran sectarian dualism and its construction of in-group/out-group boundaries. Specifically, evidence from experimental and developmental psychology and cognitive anthropology is used to argue that Serek ha-Yaḥad and the Two Spirits Treatise (1QS 3:13–4:26) reflect a deeply-engrained psychological essentialism wherein non-group members are conceptualized as having inherently different biological essences. This essentialist tendency is easily extended to the social domain in what scholars call the “naturalization” of social groups. After reviewing this literature, the paper examines the Serek and Treatise’s use of kinship terms, the word “spirit,” and language denoting human nature and living species, in order to demonstrate that essentialist intuitions about outsiders provide a foundation for the sect’s dualistic worldview. Importantly, the essentialist thinking in these texts is also firmly grounded in and channeled through the intertextual interpretation of scripture, drawing heavily on the rich creation vocabulary in Genesis 1–3.
Value Added Tax and Carousel Fraud Schemes in the European Union and the Slovak Republic
Authors: Hangáčová Natália , Strémy Tomáš
Published: May 2018

The aim of this contribution is to elaborate on the institute of VAT frauds, with emphasis on Carousel frauds. This document provides compact information concerning VAT fraud schemes within the European Union, problems within the EU VAT system, which was put into force in 1993 and strategises how to tackle VAT frauds as well as de lege ferenda proposals, especially in a view of the European Commission’s proposed solution on the EU’s common system of VAT. This article focuses on details of functioning of the EU VAT system, it explains relevant sections of the Slovak Penal Code Act pointing out legal issues in practise including examples of criminal conducts falling within the definitions of relevant sections of the Slovak Penal Code Act. This article demonstrates patterns of how carousel frauds are committed, how they evolved as a consequence of globalisation, economic changes, elimination of internal borders and electronic services.

Authors chose the very actual topic of carousel frauds in order to reveal the commission of VAT evasions, focus on existing problems and to emphasise the need for improvement of the European Union legislation in the field of VAT frauds. The contribution aims at proposing the solution for minimising the VAT gap.

The article utilises a descriptive approach to explain into detail functioning of the carousel frauds due to the fact that patterns used are complicated using a lot of companies to coved fraudulent transactions. Many times legal businesses are used to confuse law enforcement agencies as well as tax authorities of Member States when investigating commitment of VAT frauds e.g. Missing trader intra-Community fraud. In practise even courts have problems to determine which criminal offence of the Slovak Penal Code Act was committed. The article also provides in its Annex I the citations of the Slovak Penal Code Act which is beneficial to experts from Member States of the European Union to compare their jurisdiction to laws applicable in the Slovak Republic to bring the legislations closer or to subject the Slovak legislation to criticism.
A Foreign Culture Baptised: Roberto de Nobili and the Jesuits
Authors: Schouten Jan Peter
Published: May 2018

Roberto de Nobili (1577-1656) was a key figure in the history of Christian missions in India. Based in Madurai, capital of a Hindu kingdom, he tried to reach the local Brahmins by accommodating completely to their way of life. He mastered Indian languages and studied the holy scriptures of Hinduism thoroughly. In many writings, he testified to a remarkable acquaintanceship of Hindu thinking and spirituality. His dialogical attitude brought him into conflict with both conservative Hindus and the leaders of his own Jesuit order. Later generations admired ‘the Christian sannyāsī’ for his phenomenal knowledge of languages and scriptures and his daring attempts to design Indian means of expression for the gospel. However, during the last quarter of a century, De Nobili has been criticized by Dalit theologians because of his complete adjustment to caste relations, including discrimination against low-caste people.
The first discovery of the genus Haploglossa Kraatz species (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Aleocharinae) in Korea, with a description of new species
Authors: SONG JEONG-HUN , LIM JAE-CHAN , AHN KEE-JEONG
Published: May 2018

The genus Haploglossa Kraatz is recorded for the first time in Korea with a description of Haploglossa koreana Song & Ahn, sp. nov. and a redescription of H. villosula (Stephens). A key, habitus photographs and illustrations of the diagnostic characters of the known Korean species are provided.
Redefinition of two little known mirine plant bug genera Babacoris and Paramiridius (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae: Mirinae)
Authors: YASUNAGA TOMOHIDE , TSAI JING-FU , YAMADA KAZUTAKA
Published: May 2018

A long neglected plant bug genus Babacoris Miyamoto, 1994 (Mirinae: Mirini), proposed for a single Taiwanese species, B. striatus Miyamoto, is redefined and redescribed as a valid genus, based on recent rediscovery of the type species from Hengchun, Taiwan; the neotype is designated for B. striatus. The genus is now presumed to be closely related to Paramiridius Miyamoto & Yasunaga which also has been poorly known since the original description. A species recently described from Laos, Babacoris laomontanus (Oh, Yasunaga & Lee) comb. n., is transferred from Paramiridius. An updated checklist of the tribe Mirini in Taiwan is incorporated, with proposition of a new combination, Adelphocorisella minutum (Poppius) comb. n., having been left in Megacoelum Fieber as incertae sedis.
Linking Stochasticity of Convection to Large-Scale Vertical Velocity to Improve Indian Summer Monsoon Simulation in the NCAR CAM5
Authors: Wang Yong , Zhang Guang J. , Jiang Yiquan
Published: May 2018

The Plant–Craig (PC) stochastic convective parameterization scheme is modified by linking the stochastic generation of convective clouds to the change of large-scale vertical pressure velocity at 500 hPa with time so as to better account for the relationship between convection and the large-scale environment. Three experiments using the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Community Atmosphere Model, version 5 (CAM5), are conducted: one with the default Zhang–McFarlane deterministic convective scheme, another with the original PC stochastic scheme, and a third with the modified PC stochastic scheme. Evaluation is focused on the simulation of the Indian summer monsoon (ISM), which is a long-standing challenge for all current global circulation models. Results show that the modified stochastic scheme better represents the annual cycle of the climatological mean rainfall over central India and the mean onset date of ISM compared to other simulations. Also, for the simulations of ISM intraseasonal variability for quasi-biweekly and 30–60-day modes, the modified stochastic parameterization produces more realistic propagation and magnitude, especially for the observed northeastward movement of the 30–60-day mode, for which the other two simulations show the propagation in the opposite direction. Causes are investigated through a moisture budget analysis. Compared to the other two simulations, the modified stochastic scheme with an appropriate representation of convection better represents the patterns and amplitudes of large-scale dynamical convergence and moisture advection and thus corrects the monsoon cycle associated with their covariation during the peaks and troughs of intraseasonal oscillation.
Hypoglycemia Associated With Insulin Use During Treatment of Hyperkalemia Among Emergency Department Patients
Authors: Jacob Bobby C. , Peasah Samuel K. , Chan Hannah L. , Niculas Dora , Shogbon Nwaesei Angela
Published: May 2018

Purpose: Hypoglycemia is a common adverse event associated with insulin during treatment of hyperkalemia in hospitalized patients; however, limited data exist regarding hypoglycemia incidence and appropriate dosing strategies for treatment of patients in the emergency department. The study objective was to determine the incidence of hypoglycemia associated with insulin use during treatment of hyperkalemia among patients seen in the emergency department. Methods: This was an Institutional Review Board (IRB)–approved retrospective, chart-review study. All adult patients who received intravenous regular insulin as a result of an order from the emergency department hyperkalemia order set were eligible for inclusion. The main clinical outcomes were incidence of hypoglycemia (blood glucose <70 mg/dL) and severe hypoglycemia (blood glucose <40 mg/dL). Blood glucose was checked within 24 hours of insulin administration. Results: A total of 172 patients were included. The incidence of hypoglycemia was 19.8% (n = 34) and the incidence of severe hypoglycemia was 5.2% (n = 9). Hypoglycemic patients had a significantly lower median blood glucose at baseline compared to those who did not develop hypoglycemia (83.5 [72.0-112.0] mg/dL vs 123.0 [96.0-167.0] mg/dL, P < .0001); however, no difference was noted between groups in the average insulin dose administered (0.11 ± 0.04 units/kg vs 0.12 ± 0.05 units/kg, P = .6175). Conclusion: There is a concerning risk of hypoglycemia associated with insulin use during treatment of hyperkalemia in the emergency department. Standard insulin doses may not be appropriate in some cases like patients with lower baseline blood glucose. Further research is warranted to develop safer hyperkalemia treatment protocols that mitigate this high risk of hypoglycemia associated with insulin use.