bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rare Complication following Thyroid Percutaneous Ethanol Injection: Plummer Adenoma
Authors: Cesareo Roberto , Naciu Anda Mihaela , Pasqualini Valerio , Pelle Giuseppe , Manfrini Silvia , Tabacco Gaia , Lauria Pantano Angelo , Casini Alessandro , Cianni Roberto , Palermo Andrea
Published: March 2017

Percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) is a technique used only for benign thyroid nodules, cystic or mixed cystic-solid with a large fluid component. It is a quite low-cost, safe, and outpatient method of treatment. Rare and severe complications have been described after PEI: jugular vein thrombosis and severe ethanol toxic necrosis of the larynx combined with necrotic dermatitis. Moreover, only four thyrotoxicosis cases due to Graves’ disease have been reported. We report a case of 58-year-old female with a voluminous thyroid cystic nodule, occupying almost the entire left thyroid lobe. Our patient had already performed surgical visit and intervention of thyroidectomy had been proposed to her, which she refused. At baseline, our patient has a normal thyroid function with negative autoantibodies. According to the nodular structure, intervention of PEI has been performed with a significant improvement of compressive symptoms and cosmetic disorders. About 30 days after treatment, there was a significant volume reduction, but patient developed an acclaimed symptomatic thyrotoxicosis. After ruling out several causes of hyperthyroidism and according to the thyroid scintigraphy findings, we made the diagnosis of Plummer adenoma. To our knowledge, our patient is the first case of Plummer adenoma following PEI treatment of nontoxic thyroid nodule.
Some New Fixed Point Theorems in Partial Metric Spaces with Applications
Authors: Pant Rajendra , Shukla Rahul , Nashine H. K. , Panicker R.
Published: March 2017

Recently, a number of fixed point theorems for contraction type mappings in partial metric spaces have been obtained by various authors. Most of these theorems can be obtained from the corresponding results in metric spaces. The purpose of this paper is to present certain fixed point results for single and multivalued mappings in partial metric spaces which cannot be obtained from the corresponding results in metric spaces. Besides discussing some useful examples, an application to Volterra type system of integral equations is also discussed.
Mobile Bearing Total Knee Arthroplasty for Valgus Knee Osteoarthritis with Permanent Patellar Dislocation: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kamada Kohei , Matsumoto Tomoyuki , Takayama Koji , Araki Daisuke , Hashimoto Shingo , Hayashi Shinya , Matsushita Takehiko , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: March 2017

Permanent patellar dislocation with tibiofemoral joint osteoarthritis is a relatively rare condition. To treat this condition, total knee arthroplasty with proximal or distal realignment of the extensor mechanism has been reported. We report a challenging case of an 80-year-old woman diagnosed with permanent patellar dislocation with tibiofemoral joint osteoarthritis treated by a mobile bearing total knee arthroplasty utilizing navigation system. Lateral retinaculum release was performed to improve patellar tracking; other proximal or distal realignment of the extensor mechanism was not necessary. Postoperative radiographs show stable patellar tracking and recurrent patellar dislocation was not observed. This clinical case indicates that the implant’s precise alignment and rotation during total knee arthroplasty could settle anatomical abnormalities of permanent patellar dislocation and the mobile bearing insert could contribute to stabilizing patellar tracking.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Infection among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Vientiane, Laos, 2008–2014
Authors: Choisy Marc , Keomalaphet Sengdeuane , Xaydalasouk Kinnaly , Quet Fabrice , Latthaphasavang Vatthanaphone , Buisson Yves
Published: March 2017

The Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) is still considered a highly endemic country for hepatitis B, mainly due to perinatal transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV), despite efforts made since 2004 for universal immunization of newborns. The prevalence of HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) carriage in pregnant women is a relevant marker for the risk of mother-to-child HBV transmission. This study aimed to assess the changes in prevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women attending the Mahosot Prenatal Clinic (Vientiane Capital). Methods. A retrospective study was performed in the Mahosot Hospital Laboratory to collect and analyze all the results of HBsAg testing in pregnant women from 2008 to 2014. Results. Of a total of 13,238 tested women of mean age of 26 years, 720 women (5,44% [95 CI: 5.1–5.8%]) were found HBsAg positive, the annual prevalence ranging from 4.6% to 6.2%. A slight but steady and significant decrease in prevalence over the 7 years of the study could be documented. Conclusion. Although below the 8% hyperendemic threshold, the HBsAg prevalence observed in pregnant women in Vientiane reflects a high risk of HBV perinatal transmission and call for a widespread infant immunization with an HBV vaccine birth dose.
Influence of Supplementation of Vegetable Oil Blends on Omega-3 Fatty Acid Production inMortierella alpinaCFR-GV15
Authors: Vadivelan Ganesan , Rao Pamidighantam Prabhakara , Venkateswaran Govindarajulu
Published: March 2017

Objectives of this study were designed for improved production of mycelial omega-3 fatty acids with particular reference to EPA and DHA from the oleaginous fungusMortierella alpinaCFR-GV15 under submerged low temperatures fermentation supplemented with linseed oil and garden cress oil as an additional energy source. The fungus was grown at 20°C temperature for four days initially followed by 12°C temperature for next five days. The basal medium contained starch, yeast extract, and a blend of linseed oil (LSO) and garden cress oil (GCO) in the ratio 1 : 1. Results of the study revealed that, after nine days of total incubation period, the enhancement of biomass was up to 16.7 g/L dry weight with a total lipid content of 55.4% (v/w). Enrichment of omega-3 fatty acids indicated a significant increase in fatty acid bioconversion (ALA32.2±0.42%, EPA7.9±0.1%, and DHA4.09±0.2%) by 2.5-fold. The two-stage temperature cultivation alters the fatty acid profile due to activation of the desaturase enzyme in the cellular levels due to which arachidonic acid (AA) content reduced significantly. It can be concluded thatMortierella alpinaCFR-GV15 is a fungal culture suitable for commercial production of PUFAs with enriched EPA and DHA.
Different Types of Physical Activity and Fitness and Health in Adults: An 18-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Schmidt Steffen C. E. , Tittlbach Susanne , Bös Klaus , Woll Alexander
Published: March 2017

Objective. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between different types of daily life physical activity (PA) and physical fitness (PF) and health throughout adulthood.Methods. A total of 723 men and women, aged 28–76 years, participated 1681 times during four measurement points from 1992 to 2010 in this study. We assessed self-reported PA, anthropometrics, physical health status (HS), and PF in each study year. Hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) was used to analyze the measures.Results. PF and HS worsened with increasing age while sports activity (SA) declined. The modeling showed that sex, age, and SES play important roles concerning PA, PF, and HS. Athletes show higher HS and HF than nonathletes. Habitual activity (HA) also showed a positive relationship with PF and HS, but effects were lower than for SA. Work related activity (WRA) showed no meaningful relationship with PF or HS.Conclusions. Comparable amounts of PA can lead to different effects on PF or HS. Our findings underline the importance of contexts, content, and purposes of PA when health or fitness benefits are addressed. Simply moving your body is not enough.
Modeling Travel Time Reliability of Road Network Considering Connected Vehicle Guidance Characteristics Indexes
Authors: Wang Jiangfeng , Wang Chao , Lv Jiarun , Zhang Zhiqi , Li Cuicui
Published: March 2017

Travel time reliability (TTR) is one of the important indexes for effectively evaluating the performance of road network, and TTR can effectively be improved using the real-time traffic guidance information. Compared with traditional traffic guidance, connected vehicle (CV) guidance can provide travelers with more timely and accurate travel information, which can further improve the travel efficiency of road network. Five CV characteristics indexes are selected as explanatory variables including the Congestion Level (CL), Penetration Rate (PR), Compliance Rate (CR), release Delay Time (DT), and Following Rate (FR). Based on the five explanatory variables, a TTR model is proposed using the multilogistic regression method, and the prediction accuracy and the impact of characteristics indexes on TTR are analyzed using a CV guidance scenario. The simulation results indicate that 80% of the RMSE is concentrated within the interval of 0 to 0.0412. The correlation analysis of characteristics indexes shows that the influence of CL, PR, CR, and DT on the TTR is significant. PR and CR have a positive effect on TTR, and the average improvement rate is about 77.03% and 73.20% with the increase of PR and CR, respectively, while CL and DT have a negative effect on TTR, and TTR decreases by 31.21% with the increase of DT from 0 to 180 s.
Delayed Treatment of Traumatized Primary Teeth with Distinct Pulp Response: Follow-Up until Permanent Successors Eruption
Authors: Oliveira Gabriela Cristina de , Silva Juliana Calistro da , Ionta Franciny Querobim , Alencar Catarina Ribeiro Barros de , Gonçalves Priscilla Santana Pinto , Oliveira Thaís Marchini de , Cruvinel Thiago , Rios Daniela
Published: March 2017

Complicated crown fracture and crown-root fracture with pulp involvement expose dental pulp to the oral environment. The pulp outcome is often unpredictable because the patient and injury which are related to variables can influence the treatment of choice and the prognosis of the case. This report presents the case of a 4-year-old boy with complicated crown fracture with pulp polyp in the primary right maxillary central incisor (51) and crown-root fracture with pulp involvement in the primary left maxillary central incisor (61), which was treated only 3 months after the tooth injuries. The treatment of choice was extraction of tooth (61) due to a periapical lesion with disruption of the dental follicle of the permanent successor and pulpotomy (MTA) of the tooth (51), because the pulp presented signs of vitality. At the follow-up visits, no clinical, symptomalogical, and radiographic changes were observed until the primary tooth’s exfoliation. However, at 3-year follow-up, the permanent successors showed hypocalcification and the position of the permanent right maxillary central incisors (11) was altered. Besides the conservative and adequate delayed treatment, the sequelae on the permanent successors could not be avoided.
Periodontal Health Status and Associated Factors: Findings of a Prenatal Oral Health Program in South Brazil
Authors: Krüger Marta Silveira da Mota , Casarin Renata Picanço , Gonçalves Letycia Barros , Pappen Fernanda Geraldo , Bello-Correa Fernanda Oliveira , Romano Ana Regina
Published: March 2017

Objective.The aims of this study were to evaluate the periodontal health of pregnant women and to investigate the association of periodontal status with demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, as well as medical and dental history.Materials and Methods.A total of 311 pregnant women were interviewed to obtain sociodemographic data along with medical and dental histories. Clinical examinations were performed to record the presence of visible plaque, gingival bleeding, and caries activity. The periodontal condition was evaluated by Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) in one tooth of each sextant (16, 11, 26, 36, 31, and 46).Results.After the adjustment analysis, the presence of visible plaque remained the main determinant of gingival bleeding (OR = 2.91, CI = 1.91–4.48). First-trimester pregnancy status was also a predictor, with a lower prevalence of gingival bleeding observed in the second (OR = 0.87, CI = 0.77–0.99) and third (OR = 0.82, CI = 0.73–0.93) trimesters.Conclusion.In pregnant women, the presence of dental plaque and first-trimester pregnancy status were the main implicated factors predicting gingival bleeding.
Blood Lead Levels and Risk Factors among Preschool Children in a Lead Polluted Area in Taizhou, China
Authors: Gao Zhenyan , Cao Jia , Yan Jin , Wang Ju , Cai Shizhong , Yan Chonghuai
Published: March 2017

Objective. To determine the blood lead levels and identify related risk factors among preschool children in a lead polluted area (Taizhou, China) and provide theoretical support for prevention of lead pollution.Methods. A stratified-clustered-random sampling method was used to determine the survey sample. Blood lead levels were determined by the tungsten atomizer absorption spectrophotometer.Results. A total of 2,018 subjects (average age of 59 months; 1,087 boys and 931 girls) were included. The arithmetic mean, geometric mean, and median blood lead levels of the preschool children were 56.4 μg/L, 48.9 μg/L, and 46 μg/L. A total of 8.8% children had blood lead levels >100 μg/L and 43.9% had blood lead levels >50 μg/L. Mother’s education level, father’s occupation, decorative tableware, exposure to makeup, and the residential floor were all risk factors for elevated blood lead levels (odds ratios of 1.42, 1.21, 1.11, 1.19, and 1.27, resp.), while hand washing before eating food was a protective factor (odds ratio of 0.88).Conclusions. The blood lead levels of preschool children in Taizhou were higher than in other areas in China and in developed countries. Therefore, policies ensuring lead-based industries are not placed in close proximity to residential areas are required.
Physical and Physiological Demands of Recreational Team Handball for Adult Untrained Men
Authors: Póvoas Susana C. A. , Castagna Carlo , Resende Carlos , Coelho Eduardo Filipe , Silva Pedro , Santos Rute , Seabra André , Tamames Juan , Lopes Mariana , Randers Morten Bredsgaard , Krustrup Peter
Published: March 2017

Lack of motivation to exercise was reported as a major cause of sedentary behavior in adulthood. This descriptive study examines the acute physical and physiological demands of recreational team handball and evaluates whether it could be suggested as an exercise mode for fitness and health enhancement in 33–55-year-old untrained men. Time-motion, heart rate (HR), and blood lactate analyses were obtained from 4 recreational matches. Mean distance covered during the 60 min matches was6012±428 m. The players changed match activity386±70times, of which high-intensity runs and unorthodox movements amounted to59±18and26±26per match, respectively. The most frequent highly demanding playing actions were jumps and throws. Match average and peak HR were82±6% and93±5%  HRmax, respectively. Players exercised at intensities between 81 and 90%  HRmaxfor 47% (28±14 min) and >90%  HRmaxfor 24% (14±15 min) of total match time. Match average and peak blood lactate values were3.6±1.3and4.2±1.2 mM, respectively. Recreational team handball is an intermittent high-intensity exercise mode with physical and physiological demands in the range of those found to have a positive effect on aerobic, anaerobic, and musculoskeletal fitness in adult individuals. Training studies considering recreational team handball as a health enhancing intervention are warranted.
Evaluation of Plasma MicroRNAs as Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: miR-196a and miR-210 Could Be Negative and Positive Prognostic Markers, Respectively
Authors: Yu Qi , Xu Changqing , Yuan Wei , Wang Chengfeng , Zhao Ping , Chen Lianzhen , Ma Jie
Published: March 2017

Background. Identifying diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers that could be targeted in the therapy of pancreatic cancer is essential. Objective. Investigations were conducted with respect to plasma miRNA (miR-21, miR-210, miR-155, miR-196a, miR-20a, and miR-25) expression and clinicopathologic factors to evaluate the prognostic value of miRNAs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Methods. Plasma miRNAs were detected by real-time quantitative PCR, and the association with clinicopathologic factors was subsequently performed by univariate and multivariate analyses. Results. Six miRNAs expressed significantly higher in PDAC patients than in normal individuals were identified. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed. It was evident that miRNA expression associated with PDAC, lymph node metastasis, serosal infiltration, and comprehensive therapy reached significance for overall survival. High miR-196a expression was associated with poor survival (P=0.001), whereas high miR-210 expression was significantly associated with improved survival (P=0.003). Multivariate survival analysis indicated that the miR-210 and miR-196a expression signature, lymph node metastasis, and comprehensive therapy were independent factors affecting overall survival. Conclusions. MiRNA expression profile is distinctive in PDAC. Aberrant expression of certain miRNAs was remarkably involved in shaping the overall survival time, which include miR-196a overexpression and decreased miR-210 expression.
A Community-Based Participatory Research Approach to Understand Urban Latino Parent’s Oral Health Knowledge and Beliefs
Authors: Tiwari Tamanna , Rai Nayanjot , Colmenero Eivi , Gonzalez Hilda , Castro Mirna
Published: March 2017

The aim of this study is to describe oral health knowledge, behaviors, and beliefs of Latino parents with children under the ages of 6 years and to conduct a needs assessment with Latino families to better understand the challenges in maintaining oral health for their children. The investigator collaborated with a community serving the organization to recruit Latino primary caregivers for focus groups interviews and 30 primary caregivers were recruited. The focus groups data was transcribed and analyzed using a grounded theory approach using QDA Miner software. Findings from the focus groups demonstrate that the primary caregivers described barriers in maintaining oral health for their children including cultural barriers, child’s temperament, lack of time, and easy access to high-risk foods. All participants said that they wanted to receive information on the oral health of their children; they wanted the dentist or the hygienist to demonstrate oral hygiene practices and explain to them the reasons for oral health behaviors. Although the primary caregivers recognized some factors related to caries development, their knowledge was limited in depth. Culturally appropriate oral health education is required for this population, which could lead to more adherent oral health behavior and a higher sense of self-efficacy in Latino parents.
Squamous Cell Tumors Recruit γδ T Cells Producing either IL17 or IFNγ Depending on the Tumor Stage
Authors: Lo Presti Elena , Toia Francesca , Oieni Sebastiano , Buccheri Simona , Turdo Alice , Mangiapane Laura Rosa , Campisi Giuseppina , Caputo Valentina , Todaro Matilde , Stassi Giorgio , Cordova Adriana , Moschella Francesco , Rinaldi Gaetana , Meraviglia Serena , Dieli Francesco
Published: March 2017

The identification of reciprocal interactions between tumor-infiltrating immune cells and the microenviroment may help us understand mechanisms of tumor growth inhibition or progression. We have assessed the frequencies of tumor-infiltrating and circulating γδ T cells and regulatory T cells (Treg) from 47 patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), to determine if they correlated with progression or survival. Vδ1 T cells infiltrated SSC tissue to a greater extent than normal skin, but SCC patients and healthy subjects had similar amounts circulating. However, Vδ2 T cells were present at higher frequencies in circulation than in the tissue of either cancer patients or healthy donors. Tregs were decreased in the peripheral blood of SCC patients, but were significantly increased in the tumor compartment of these patients. Tumor-infiltrating γδ T cells preferentially showed an effector memory phenotype and made either IL17 or IFNγ depending on the tumor stage, whereas circulating γδ T cells of SCC patients preferentially made IFNγ. Different cell types in the tumor microenvironment produced chemokines that could recruit circulating γδ T cells to the tumor site and other cytokines that could reprogram γδ T cells to produce IL17. These findings suggest the possibility that γδ T cells in SCC are recruited from the periphery and their features are then affected by the tumor microenvironment. Elevated frequencies of infiltrating Vδ2 T cells and Tregs differently correlated with early and advanced tumor stages, respectively. Our results provide insights into the functions of tumor-infiltrating γδ T cells and define potential tools for tumor immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(5); 397–407. ©2017 AACR.
The Use of a Software-Assisted Method to Estimate Fetal Weight at and Near Term Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Kadji Caroline , De Groof Maxime , Camus Margaux F. , De Angelis Riccardo , Fellas Stéphanie , Klass Magdalena , Cecotti Vera , Dütemeyer Vivien , Barakat Elie , Cannie Mieke M. , Jani Jacques C.
Published: March 2017

Objective: The aim of this study was to apply a semi-automated calculation method of fetal body volume and, thus, of magnetic resonance-estimated fetal weight (MR-EFW) prior to planned delivery and to evaluate whether the technique of measurement could be simplified while remaining accurate. Methods: MR-EFW was calculated using a semi-automated method at 38.6 weeks of gestation in 36 patients and compared to the picture archiving and communication system (PACS). Per patient, 8 sequences were acquired with a slice thickness of 4-8 mm and an intersection gap of 0, 4, 8, 12, 16, or 20 mm. The median absolute relative errors for MR-EFW and the time of planimetric measurements were calculated for all 8 sequences and for each method (assisted vs. PACS), and the difference between the methods was calculated. Results: The median delivery weight was 3,280 g. The overall median relative error for all 288 MR-EFW calculations was 2.4% using the semi-automated method and 2.2% for the PACS method. Measurements did not differ between the 8 sequences using the assisted method (p = 0.313) or the PACS (p = 0.118), while the time of planimetric measurement decreased significantly with a larger gap (p < 0.001) and in the assisted method compared to the PACS method (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Our simplified MR-EFW measurement showed a dramatic decrease in time of planimetric measurement without a decrease in the accuracy of weight estimates.
A Revised Fibrinogen Cutoff Value in the Chinese Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Scoring System May Provide a Better Prognostic Value for Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Wei Qing , Niu Ting , Wang Mengyao , Yang Jinrong , Liu Pengpeng , Yi Yuyao
Published: March 2017

To retrospectively validate the prognostic value of the latest Chinese disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) scoring system (CDSS) in hematological malignancies, 260 patients with confirmed hematological malignancies and suspected DIC in West China Hospital between 2011 and 2015 were included in this study. We evaluated via univariate and multivariate analyses the diagnostic biomarkers, and the cutoff levels used in the CDSS, except those for fibrinogen, were found to be valid. In subgroup analyses, the value of fibrinogen was found to be mainly unfit for the acute promyelocytic leukemia group. Forty-six patients (17.7%) had elevated fibrinogen levels (>4 g/L) and tended to have a poor prognosis, and thus we redetermined the cutoff value of fibrinogen (<1 g/L or >4 g/L was defined as abnormal). As a result, all of the markers used in the CDSS had prognostic value (including for the promyelocytic leukemia group); meanwhile, this modification also resulted in a larger area under the receiver operating characteristic curve compared to the CDSS and the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis score. We believe that, with regard to prognosis prediction, this cutoff value modification for fibrinogen is preferable for DIC patients with a tendency toward severe hypofibrinogenemia. However, a multicenter, prospective study is needed to validate this possibility.
Glomerular Morphology and Renal Function after Warm Ischemia by Main Artery or Selective Clamping in a Porcine Model
Authors: Bechara Gustavo R. , Damasceno-Ferreira José A. , Abreu Leonardo A.S. , Costa Waldemar S. , Sampaio Francisco J.B. , Pereira-Sampaio Marco A. , de Souza Diogo B.
Published: March 2017

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the ischemic and non-ischemic areas after selective arterial occlusion by using stereological analysis of glomeruli, and to compare them with main arterial clamping and sham-operated animals. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four male pigs were used in the study. The animals were divided into 3 groups with 8 animals in each as follows: group sham, submitted to laparoscopic dissection of the renal pedicle but not submitted to ischemia; group arterial (A), submitted to left renal artery clamping; and group selective (S), submitted to left renal artery caudal branch occlusion. Groups A and S underwent 30 min of warm ischemia. Left and right kidneys were collected after 21 days and renal fragments were processed for stereological evaluation. Glomerular volume density (Vv[glom]), mean glomerular volume (MGV), and glomerular density were measured. Serum creatinine and urea were assessed preoperatively, 10 days after surgery, and before euthanasia. Results: There was no significant difference among groups with regard to renal function. Renal weight and volume were similar among groups. Also, no difference was observed between the groups with regard to Vv[glom], MGV, and glomerular density, both when compared to its right control or when left kidneys were compared. Conclusions: Selective arterial clamping technique was neither superior nor inferior to main artery clamping.
Liberale Akzeptanz als kognitiver Mechanismus bei Psychose: Eine 2-Stufen-Theorie der Pathogenese schizophrener Positivsymptome
Authors: Moritz Steffen , Lüdtke Thies , Pfuhl Gerit , Balzan Ryan , Andreou Christina
Published: March 2017

Positivsymptome wie Wahn und Halluzinationen stellen definierende Symptome einer (schizophrenen) Psychose dar. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit wird ein 2-stufiges heuristisches Modell für die Entstehung und Aufrechterhaltung psychotischer Positivsymptome vorgelegt. Im Kern der Theorie steht die Hypothese, dass von Psychose betroffene Menschen eine erniedrigte Entscheidungsschwelle aufweisen, die zu einer frühzeitigen Annahme von Hypothesen führt (liberale Akzeptanz). Im Unterschied zu nichtpsychotischen Personen ist die Konfidenz in falsche Urteile bei Betroffenen, als Folge dieser liberalen Akzeptanz, erhöht. Postuliert werden 2 Stufen der Wahnentwicklung. Auf Stufe 1 (Wahnentstehung) ist die subjektive Wahrscheinlichkeit für akzeptierte Hypothesen bei Menschen mit Psychose zunächst vergleichsweise gering. Wahnhafte Ideen sind in diesem Stadium häufig nicht voll entfaltet bzw. fragil und können zwischen 2 sich gegenseitig ausschließenden Ansichten oszillieren («doppelte Buchführung»). Im Zuge der 2. Stufe (Überzeugung, Aufrechterhaltung) verfestigen sich die flüchtigen wahnhaften Ideen zu falschen Überzeugungen aufgrund eines 2-gliedrigen Konsolidierungsprozesses - indem einerseits Gegenbeweise ignoriert und andererseits Belege zugunsten der Leithypothese einen Verarbeitungsvorteil erhalten (Bestätigungstendenz). Alternative Hypothesen rücken in den Hintergrund. Aufrechterhaltend für eine Wahnidee sind vielfältige psychologische Faktoren und Motive, wie die Kongruenz des Wahns mit dem emotionalen Befinden, persönliche Bedeutsamkeit und die temporäre Steigerung des Selbstwertgefühls sowie das Spannen eines Erklärungsrahmens für ein breites Spektrum von Beschwerden zur Reduktion kognitiver Dissonanz. Aus unserer Sicht können viele Formen von Halluzinationen und Erstrangsymptomen (z.B. Gedankeneingebung) ebenfalls durch liberale Akzeptanz erklärt werden. Diese Symptome basieren unseres Erachtens nicht zwingend auf fehlerhaften oder abnormalen Wahrnehmungen, sondern repräsentieren eine Fehlinterpretation von (teilweise) normalen sensorischen Phänomenen, die sich von einem (normalen) «Als-ob»-Gefühl bis hin zu einer wahnhaften Überzeugung steigern. Im Einklang mit dem erläuterten Modell werden Positivsymptome durch Interventionen wie das metakognitive Training (MKT) verringert, die Betroffene dazu anhalten, mehr Informationen zu sammeln und ihre Urteilssicherheit zu reduzieren (Säen von Zweifel). Die antipsychotische Wirkung von Antipsychotika/Neuroleptika wird im Rahmen der Theorie zum Teil durch ihre Eigenschaft erklärt, Zweifel zu induzieren. Die Bedeutung der Emotionsregulation bei der Reduktion von Positivsymptomen wird ebenfalls aufgezeigt, und zukünftige Forschungsrichtungen sowie offene Fragen diskutiert.
Spinal Intradural Intramedullary Dissemination in the Absence of Intracranial Relapse of a Previously Radically Treated Temporal Lobe Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Serrano Lucas , Archavlis Eleftherios , Januschek Elke , Timofeev Pavel , Ulrich Peter
Published: March 2017

Intracranial glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) constitutes the most frequent and unfortunately aggressive primary central nervous system malignancy. Despite the high tendency of these tumors to show local relapse within the brain after primary therapy, dissemination into the spinal axis is an infrequent event. If spinal metastases occur they are leptomeningeal in the vast majority of cases and always in the context of intracranial progressive disease. Spinal intramedullary metastases of intracranial GBM have rarely been described to date. We report the unique case of a young woman with subacute progressive paraparesis due to spinal intramedullary metastases of a temporal lobe GBM despite the remarkable absence of intracranial tumor relapse. The patient had undergone gross total resection of a left temporal GBM in contact with the ventricles and cisternal space followed by radio- and chemotherapy 13 months before. At the moment of diagnosis of spinal intramedullary metastases, there were no signs of intracranial tumor recurrence as revealed by MRI scans. Since a high level of suspicion may be needed to detect this rare evolution of intracranial GBM and other differential diagnoses must be ruled out at presentation, we discuss the important features of this case regarding clinical manifestation, diagnosis, surgery, and management. Furthermore, we mention possible factors that may have contributed to the development of these metastases in the context of intracranial remission.
Emerging Role of CaV1.2 Channels in Proliferation and Migration in Distinct Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Martínez-Delgado Gustavo , Felix Ricardo
Published: March 2017

Extensive research is currently underway, seeking better diagnostic methods and treatments and a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in cancer, from the role of specific genetic mutations to the intricate biochemical and molecular pathways involved. Because of their role in regulating relevant physiological events such as cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, ion channels have recently been recognized as important elements in cancer initiation and progression. Moreover, it has been reported that pharmacological intervention in ion channel activity might provide protection against diverse types of cancer, and that ion channels could be used as targets to counteract tumor growth, prevent metastasis, and overcome the therapy resistance of tumor cells. In this context, Ca2+ channels have been found to play a role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Specifically, L-type Ca2+ channel inhibition may affect cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. This review aims to provide insights into the potential role of these channels in cancer cell lines, emphasizing their participation in cell proliferation, migration, and autophagy induction, as well as their potential as rational targets for new cancer therapeutics.
Thymic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: Biological Behaviour and Therapy
Authors: Jia Ru , Sulentic Petra , Xu Jian-Ming , Grossman Ashley B.
Published: March 2017

Thymic neuroendocrine neoplasms are rare tumours, but their management can often be highly problematic. While previously assumed to be essentially variants of bronchopulmonary (lung) carcinoids, they are generally more aggressive and more difficult to treat. Some 25% are associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia-1, while a higher proportion are associated with the ectopic ACTH syndrome, and occasionally both. We discuss the classification of these tumours, their biology as far as is known, and their clinical, biochemical and imaging features. We also review possible management options and suggest stratagems to optimise their treatment, which even today is far from optimal.
Frequency, Predictors, and Implications of Abnormal Blood Pressure Responses During Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography
Authors: Abram Sara , Arruda-Olson Adelaide M. , Scott Christopher G. , Pellikka Patricia A. , Nkomo Vuyisile T. , Oh Jae K. , Milan Alberto , Abidian Mohamed M. , McCully Robert B.
Published: March 2017

Background—

It is not known whether abnormal blood pressure (BP) responses during dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) are associated with abnormal test results, nor if such results indicate obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). We sought to define the frequency of abnormal BP responses during DSE and their impact on accuracy of test results.

Methods and Results—

We studied 21 949 patients who underwent DSE at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, grouped by peak systolic BP achieved during the test. We also analyzed a subgroup who underwent coronary angiography within 30 days after positive DSE. The positive predictive value of DSE was calculated for each BP group. Patients with hypertensive response (n=1905; 9%) were more likely to have positive DSE than those with normal (n=19 770; 90%) or hypotensive (n=274; 1%) BP responses (32% versus 21% versus 23%, respectively;
P
<0.0001). Angiography, performed in 1126 patients, showed obstructive CAD (≥50% stenosis) in 814 patients and severe CAD (≥70% stenosis) in 708 patients. Positive predictive value of DSE was similar for patients who had hypertensive and normal BP responses (69% versus 73%;
P
=0.3), considering 50% stenosis cut point. The proportion of severe CAD (≥70% stenosis) was lower in patients who had hypertensive response compared with those who had normal BP response (54% versus 65%;
P
=0.005).

Conclusions—

Patients with hypertensive response during DSE are more likely to have stress-induced myocardial ischemia compared with those with normal or hypotensive BP responses but are not more likely to have false-positive DSE results. They are, however, less likely to have higher grade or multivessel CAD.
Association Between Midwall Late Gadolinium Enhancement and Sudden Cardiac Death in Patients With Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Mild and Moderate Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction
Authors: Halliday Brian P. , Gulati Ankur , Ali Aamir , Guha Kaushik , Newsome Simon , Arzanauskaite Monika , Vassiliou Vassilios S. , Lota Amrit , Izgi Cemil , Tayal Upasana , Khalique Zohya , Stirrat Colin , Auger Dominique , Pareek Nilesh , Ismail Tevfik F. , Rosen Stuart D. , Vazir Ali , Alpendurada Francisco , Gregson John , Frenneaux Michael P. , Cowie Martin R. , Cleland John G. F. , Cook Stuart A. , Pennell Dudley J. , Prasad Sanjay K.
Published: March 2017

Background:

Current guidelines only recommend the use of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy for the primary prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in those with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <35%. However, registries of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests demonstrate that 70% to 80% of such patients have an LVEF >35%. Patients with an LVEF >35% also have low competing risks of death from nonsudden causes. Therefore, those at high risk of SCD may gain longevity from successful implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy. We investigated whether late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiovascular magnetic resonance identified patients with dilated cardiomyopathy without severe LV systolic dysfunction at high risk of SCD.

Methods:

We prospectively investigated the association between midwall LGE and the prespecified primary composite outcome of SCD or aborted SCD among consecutive referrals with dilated cardiomyopathy and an LVEF ≥40% to our center between January 2000 and December 2011 who did not have a preexisting indication for implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation.

Results:

Of 399 patients (145 women, median age 50 years, median LVEF 50%, 25.3% with LGE) followed for a median of 4.6 years, 18 of 101 (17.8%) patients with LGE reached the prespecified end point, compared with 7 of 298 (2.3%) without (hazard ratio [HR], 9.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.9–21.8;
P
<0.0001). Nine patients (8.9%) with LGE compared with 6 (2.0%) without (HR, 4.9; 95% CI, 1.8–13.5;
P
=0.002) died suddenly, whereas 10 patients (9.9%) with LGE compared with 1 patient (0.3%) without (HR, 34.8; 95% CI, 4.6–266.6;
P
<0.001) had aborted SCD. After adjustment, LGE predicted the composite end point (HR, 9.3; 95% CI, 3.9–22.3;
P
<0.0001), SCD (HR, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.7–13.8;
P
=0.003), and aborted SCD (HR, 35.9; 95% CI, 4.8–271.4;
P
<0.001). Estimated HRs for the primary end point for patients with an LGE extent of 0% to 2.5%, 2.5% to 5%, and >5% compared with those without LGE were 10.6 (95% CI, 3.9–29.4), 4.9 (95% CI, 1.3–18.9), and 11.8 (95% CI, 4.3–32.3), respectively.

Conclusions:

Midwall LGE identifies a group of patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and an LVEF ≥40% at increased risk of SCD and low risk of nonsudden death who may benefit from implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
http://clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00930735.
Associations of Ischemic Lesion Volume With Functional Outcome in Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Bucker Amber , Boers Anna M. , Bot Joseph C.J. , Berkhemer Olvert A. , Lingsma Hester F. , Yoo Albert J. , van Zwam Wim H. , van Oostenbrugge Robert J. , van der Lugt Aad , Dippel Diederik W.J. , Roos Yvo B.W.E.M. , Majoie Charles B.L.M. , Marquering Henk A.
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

Ischemic lesion volume (ILV) on noncontrast computed tomography at 1 week can be used as a secondary outcome measure in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Twenty-four–hour ILV on noncontrast computed tomography has greater availability and potentially allows earlier estimation of functional outcome. We aimed to assess lesion growth 24 hours after stroke onset and compare the associations of 24-hour and 1-week ILV with functional outcome.

Methods—

We included 228 patients from MR CLEAN trial (Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke in the Netherlands), who received noncontrast computed tomography at 24-hour and 1-week follow-up on which ILV was measured. Relative and absolute lesion growth was determined. Logistic regression models were constructed either including the 24-hour or including the 1-week ILV. Ordinal and dichotomous (0–2 and 3–6) modified Rankin scale scores were, respectively, used as primary and secondary outcome measures.

Results—

Median ILV was 42 mL (interquartile range, 21–95 mL) and 64 mL (interquartile range: 30–120 mL) at 24 hours and 1 week, respectively. Relative lesion growth exceeding 30% occurred in 121 patients (53%) and absolute lesion growth exceeding 20 mL occurred in 83 patients (36%). Both the 24-hour and 1-week ILVs were similarly significantly associated with functional outcome (both
P
<0.001). In the logistic analyses, the areas under the curve of the receiver–operator characteristic curves were similar: 0.85 (95% confidence interval, 0.80–0.90) and 0.87 (95% confidence interval, 0.82–0.91) for including the 24-hour and 1-week ILV, respectively.

Conclusions—

Growth of ILV is common 24-hour poststroke onset. Nevertheless, the 24-hour ILV proved to be a valuable secondary outcome measure as it is equally strongly associated with functional outcome as the 1-week ILV.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.isrctn.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN10888758.
Remains of Tefillin from Naḥal Ṣeʾelim (Wadi Seiyal): A Leather Case and Two Inscribed Fragments (34Se 1 A–B)
Authors: Adler Yonatan
Published: March 2017

The present study presents and discusses the tefillin (phylactery) remains found in Cave 34 at Naḥal Ṣeʾelim within the framework of Yohanan Aharoni’s first 1960 expedition to the Judean Desert. Presented here are a leather tefillin case, never before reported upon, and two inscribed tefillin slips (34ṢePhyl A and 34ṢePhyl B) which have until now received only preliminary treatment. Very few close parallels to the Naḥal Ṣeʾelim tefillin slips are known from elsewhere in the Judean Desert. Both the tefillin slips and the case appear quite compatible with rabbinic descriptions and prescriptions, although there is little reason to label these ritual objects as in some way or another “rabbinic”. The paleographic analysis of the tefillin slips suggests that the texts were penned sometime in the second half of the first century ce. While a Bar Kokhba period date for the deposit of the tefillin remains in Cave 34 does not appear at all unlikely, an earlier dating—possibly First Revolt period—must not be precluded.
Strength of Religious Faith in the Portuguese Catholic Elderly
Authors: Amado Nuno , Diniz António M.
Published: March 2017

This study aimed to adapt the Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire (SCSRFQ)-Brief Version to the Portuguese elderly, and to investigate the effect of relevant and easy to assess predictors on the strength of religious faith. Participants were 778 non-institutionalized Catholic elderly (65 or older), with a majority of women, young-olds (65-74), with four years or less of education, and practicing Catholics. The sample was randomly split in two (n = 389) to study the invariance and the structural validity of the SCSRFQ-Brief Version across both groups. Following this step, a multiple indicators and multiple causes model for age, gender, educational level, and religious participation influence on strength of religious faith was tested across groups. All predictors were statistically significant, with religious participation being the most influential. The study of religion in the elderly is enriched by resource to valid multiple-item instruments as the SCSRFQ-Brief Version.
Localising Christianity
Authors: Kruithof Maryse
Published: March 2017

Dutch missionaries active in nineteenth century Java (in the former Dutch Indies) found themselves in an exceptional position, namely on the borders between their own, the colonial, and local cultures. This gave them a unique perspective on a range of processes in the colony, but it also made their proselytizing task that much harder. They felt restricted by cultural barriers and constantly had to negotiate with all sides involved. This paper shows how both the missionaries and Javanese Christians negotiated in the transnational space in their attempt to intersect the Christian with the Javanese identity.
Denaturing Knowledge in Texts for Nothing
Authors: Uhlmann Anthony
Published: March 2017

This paper looks at Texts for Nothing, which Beckett attempts as a way to go on after the conceptual aporias he confronts in The Unnamable. It examines Beckett’s own comments with regard to this attempt to go on, set out in an interview with Israel Shenker and seeks to unpack these comments and the assertion that Texts for Nothing was a failure. In doing so it examines Beckett’s relation to knowing, being, having, and acting, in relation to concepts drawn from Spinoza and Deleuze and to the various literary tropes Beckett works with that traditionally generate meaning in relation to these concepts.
A review of the leafhopper genus Scaphoideus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) from Guangxi of China, with description of one new species
Authors: WEN CHAO , CHEN FANGYING , DAI WU
Published: March 2017

Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region is one of the China's richest regions in terms of biodiversity. Previously, only five species of the genus Scaphoideus Uhler have been reported from Guangxi. Here fifteen species of Scaphoideus from Guangxi, including one new species, are recognized: S. exsertus Li, S. albovittatus Matsumura, S. apicalis Li, S. bilineus Li, S. yuani Chen, Dai and Zhang, S. dentaedeagus Li and Wang, S. festivus Matsumura, S. kumamotonis Matsumura, S. maculatus Li, S. nigrigenatus Li, S. nigrisignus Li, S. palingus Li and Dai, S. yingjiangensis Wang and Li, S. zhoui Li and Xing and S. proxaprocessus sp. nov. Two new synonyms are revealed, Scaphoideus pristiophorus Kamitani and Hayashi, 2013 syn. nov., a junior synonym of Scaphoideus apicalis Li, 1999, and Scaphoideus spiculatus Viraktamath and Mohan, June 2004 syn. nov., a junior synonym of Scaphoideus yingjiangensis Wang and Li, March 2004. The new species is described, and photographs of external habitus and male genitalia of all the species treated are also given along with a key to the species of the region.
A new species of gall midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) attacking jujube, Ziziphus jujuba in China
Authors: JIAO KE-LONG , HAN PEI-JIN , YANG MING-LU , XIONG REN-CI , WANG YUAN-HONG , BU WEN-JUN
Published: March 2017

Dasineura jujubifolia Jiao & Bu, sp. nov., a gall midge feeding on jujube, Ziziphus jujuba Miller (Rhamnaceae), a fruit tree cultivated extensively in large areas of China, is described and illustrated based on specimens collected from Alar (Xinjiang, China). The new gall midge species causes rolled leaf galls on Ziziphus jujuba in Northwestern China. Brief notes on the biology of the jujube gall midge are given.
Oxynoemacheilus hazarensis, a new species from Lake Hazar in Turkey, with remarks on O. euphraticus (Teleostei: Nemacheilidae)
Authors: FREYHOF JÖRG , ÖZULUĞ MÜFİT
Published: March 2017

Oxynoemacheilus hazarensis, new species, from Lake Hazar in the Turkish Tigris drainage, is distinguished from other Oxynoemacheilus in the Tigris drainage by having the combination of a slightly emarginate caudal fin, no suborbital groove in males, an incomplete lateral line, no scales on the back and flank in front of the anus, the maxillary barbel reaching beyond the middle of the eye, an incision in the middle of the upper lip, and the colour pattern on the flank mottled, not interrupted by an unpigmented zone along the lateral line. Oxynoemacheilus euphraticus from the Euphrates and Tigris drainages is a valid species: it is discussed and re-diagnosed against O. argyrogramma.
A new species and records of Anacroneuria (Plecoptera: Perlidae) from the Ecological Station, Wenceslau Guimarães, State of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: ALMEIDA LUCAS HENRIQUE DE , DUARTE TÁCIO
Published: March 2017

We studied specimens of the perlid genus Anacroneuria collected at the Ecological Station, Wenceslau Guimarães, State of Bahia, Brazil. A list of Anacroneuria species is provided including a description of a new species, A. patioba n. sp., and a new record is given for A. paprockii Novaes & Bispo, 2014.