bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Definition Colonoscopy Combined with i-SCAN Imaging Technology Is Superior in the Detection of Adenomas and Advanced Lesions Compared to High Definition Colonoscopy Alone
Authors: Bowman Erik A. , Pfau Patrick R. , Mitra Arnab , Reichelderfer Mark , Gopal Deepak V. , Hall Benjamin S. , Benson Mark E.
Published: June 2015

Background. Improved detection of adenomatous polyps using i-SCAN has mixed results in small studies. Utility of i-SCAN as a primary surveillance modality for colorectal cancer screening during colonoscopy is uncertain. Aim. Comparing high definition white light endoscopy (HDWLE) to i-SCAN in their ability to detect adenomas during colonoscopy. Methods. Prospective cohort study of 1936 average risk patients who had a screening colonoscopy at an ambulatory procedure center. Patients underwent colonoscopy with high definition white light endoscopy withdrawal versus i-SCAN withdrawal during endoscopic screening exam. Primary outcome measurement was adenoma detection rate for i-SCAN versus high definition white light endoscopy. Secondary measurements included polyp size, pathology, and morphology. Results. 1007 patients underwent colonoscopy with i-SCAN and 929 with HDWLE. 618 adenomas were detected in the i-SCAN group compared to 402 in the HDWLE group p<0.01. More advanced adenomas (≥10 mm) were found by i-SCAN, 79 versus 47 p=0.021 and based upon histology alone 37 versus 18 p=0.028. Conclusions. i-SCAN detected significantly more adenomas and advanced adenomas compared to high definition white light endoscopy.
A Novel Matrine Derivative WM130 Inhibits Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells and Attenuates Dimethylnitrosamine-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats
Authors: Xu Yang , Peng Zhangxiao , Ji Weidan , Li Xiang , Lin Xuejing , Qian Liqiang , Li Xiaoya , Chai Xiaoyun , Wu Qiuye , Gao Quangen , Su Changqing
Published: June 2015

Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) is a critical event in process of hepatic fibrogenesis and cirrhosis. Matrine, the active ingredient ofSophora, had been used for clinical treatment of acute/chronic liver disease. However, its potency was low. We prepared a high potency and low toxicity matrine derivate, WM130 (C30N4H40SO5F), which exhibited better pharmacological activities on antihepatic fibrosis. This study demonstrated that WM130 results in a decreased proliferative activity of HSC-T6 cells, with the half inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 68 μM. WM130 can inhibit the migration and induce apoptosis in HSC-T6 cells at both concentrations of 68 μM (IC50) and 34 μM (half IC50). The expression ofα-SMA, Collagen I, Collagen III, and TGF-β1 could be downregulated, and the protein phosphorylation levels of EGFR, AKT, ERK, Smad, and Raf (p-EGFR, p-AKT, p-ERK, p-Smad, and p-Raf) were also decreased by WM130. On the DMN-induced rat liver fibrosis model, WM130 can effectively reduce the TGF-β1, AKT,α-SMA, and p-ERK levels, decrease the extracellular matrix (ECM) formation, and inhibit rat liver fibrosis progression. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that WM130 can significantly inhibit the activation of HSC-T6 cells and block the rat liver fibrosis progression by inducing apoptosis, suppressing the deposition of ECM, and inhibiting TGF-β/Smad and Ras/ERK pathways.
Interferon Treatment of Hepatitis C Reinfection after Liver Transplantation: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Yaqin , Wu Gang , Zhang Hongmin , Xu Hua , Li Hong , Chen Ling , Yang Yixuan , Hu Peng , Zhang Dazhi , Ren Hong , Hu Huaidong
Published: June 2015

Background. Graft reinfection with hepatitis C (HCV) after liver transplantation is a significant problem in transplant hepatology. This meta-analysis was performed to compare the effectiveness and risk of adverse events of interferon-based therapy with no treatment after liver transplantation.Methods. We searched electronic databases up to July 31, 2013, to obtain relevant research reports that satisfied the inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses were done on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized trials.Results. A meta-analysis was performed on 2 RCTs and 2 cohort studies comprising a total of 326 patients (171 of whom accepted interferon-based antiviral therapy). The treatment group was found to have higher virological response (VR) rates than controls at 12, 24, 48, and 72 weeks. Patients in the antiviral group had higher sustained virological response (SVR) rates and lower mean alanine aminotransferase levels relative to controls at 48 weeks, but more total serious adverse events (AEs) than controls.Conclusions. Interferon-based treatment has some efficacy in the treatment of HCV graft reinfection following liver transplantation.
Correlation between the Rotation of the First Molars and theSeverity of Class II Division 1 Malocclusion
Authors: Lima Betânia Pessoa , Maio Pinzan-Vercelino Célia Regina , Dias Laércio Santos , Bramante Fausto Silva , De Jesus Tavarez Rudys Rodolfo
Published: June 2015

This study aimed to evaluate the potential correlation between the severity of Class II division 1 malocclusion and the magnitude of mesiopalatal rotation of the maxillary first molars. Scanned images of 104 cast models were grouped according to the severity of Class II malocclusion as follows: Group 1, 1/4 Class II malocclusion; Group 2, 1/2 Class II malocclusion; Group 3, 3/4 Class II malocclusion; and Group 4, complete Class II malocclusion. The rotation was measured using parameters described by Henry, Friel, and Ricketts, referred to as indicators 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The correlation was evaluated using the Spearman’s correlation coefficient. The rotational indicators were compared using one‐way analysis of variance. For all statistical analyses used p < 0.05, a positive correlation was observed between the severity of Class II malocclusion and the mesiopalatal rotation of the maxillary first molar. This correlation was statistically significant for indicator 1 between Groups 1 and 3 and for indicator 2 between Groups 1 and 4, which include cases of extreme malocclusion. In conclusion, there is a positive correlation between the severity of Class II division 1 malocclusion and the magnitude of mesiopalatal rotation in the maxillary first molars.
Payload Mass Identification of a Single-Link Flexible Arm Moving under Gravity: An Algebraic Identification Approach
Authors: Cambera Juan Carlos , San-Millan Andres , Feliu-Batlle Vicente
Published: June 2015

We deal with the online identification of the payload mass carried by a single-link flexible arm that moves on a vertical plane and therefore is affected by the gravity force. Specifically, we follow a frequency domain design methodology to develop an algebraic identifier. This identifier is capable of achieving robust and efficient mass estimates even in the presence of sensor noise. In order to highlight its performance, the proposed estimator is experimentally tested and compared with other classical methods in several situations that resemble the most typical operation of a manipulator.
Efficacy of N-Acetylcysteine, Glutathione, and Ascorbic Acid in Acute Toxicity of Paraoxon to Wistar Rats: Survival Study
Authors: Nurulain Syed M. , Ojha Shreesh , Tekes Kornelia , Shafiullah Mohammad , Kalasz Huba , Adem Abdu
Published: June 2015

There are a great number of reports with assertions that oxidative stress is produced by organophosphorus compound (OPC) poisoning and is a cofactor of mortality and morbidity in OPC toxicity. In addition, antioxidants have been suggested as adjuncts to standard therapy. However, there is no substantial evidence for the benefit of the use of antioxidants in survival after acute intoxication of OPCs. The present study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of three non-enzymatic antioxidants (NEAOs), N-acetylcysteine (NAC), glutathione (GSH), and ascorbic acid (AA), in acute intoxication of adult male Wister rats with paraoxon. The efficacy of the antioxidants was estimated as both a pretreatment and a concurrent application along with the standard oxime, pralidoxime (2-PAM). Relative risk of death after 48 hours of application was estimated by Cox regression analysis. The results revealed no benefit of either tested NEAO to the improvement in survival of experimental rats. The application of these antioxidants was found to be deleterious when administered along with pralidoxime compared to the treatment with pralidoxime alone. It has been concluded that the tested non-enzymatic antioxidants are not useful in acute toxicity for improving survival rates. However, the individual toxic dynamics of diversified OPCs should not be overlooked and further studies with different OPCs are suggested.
Anaerobic Treatment of Palm Oil Mill Effluent in Pilot-Scale Anaerobic EGSB Reactor
Authors: Wang Jin , Mahmood Qaisar , Qiu Jiang-Ping , Li Yin-Sheng , Chang Yoon-Seong , Li Xu-Dong
Published: June 2015

Large volumes of untreated palm oil mill effluent (POME) pose threat to aquatic environment due to the presence of very high organic content. The present investigation involved two pilot-scale anaerobic expanded granular sludge bed (EGSB) reactors, continuously operated for 1 year to treat POME. Setting HRT at 9.8 d, the anaerobic EGSB reactors reduced COD from 71179 mg/L to 12341 mg/L and recycled half of sludge by a dissolved air flotation (DAF). The average effluent COD was 3587 mg/L with the consistent COD removal efficiency of 94.89%. Adding cationic polymer (PAM) dose of 30 mg/L to DAF unit and recycling its half of sludge caused granulation of anaerobic sludge. Bacilli and small coccid bacteria were the dominant microbial species of the reactor. The reactor produced 27.65 m3of biogas per m3of POME which was utilized for electricity generation.
Proteome Analysis for Understanding Abiotic Stress (Salinity and Drought) Tolerance in Date Palm (Phoenix dactyliferaL.)
Authors: El Rabey Haddad A. , Al-Malki Abdulrahman L. , Abulnaja Khalid O. , Rohde Wolfgang
Published: June 2015

This study was carried out to study the proteome of date palm under salinity and drought stress conditions to possibly identify proteins involved in stress tolerance. For this purpose, three-month-old seedlings of date palm cultivar “Sagie” were subjected to drought (27.5 g/L polyethylene glycol 6000) and salinity stress conditions (16 g/L NaCl) for one month. DIGE analysis of protein extracts identified 47 differentially expressed proteins in leaves of salt- and drought-treated palm seedlings. Mass spectrometric analysis identified 12 proteins; three out of them were significantly changed under both salt and drought stress, while the other nine were significantly changed only in salt-stressed plants. The levels of ATP synthase alpha and beta subunits, an unknown protein and some of RubisCO fragments were significantly changed under both salt and drought stress conditions. Changes in abundance of superoxide dismutase, chlorophyll A-B binding protein, light-harvesting complex1 protein Lhca1, RubisCO activase, phosphoglycerate kinase, chloroplast light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b-binding protein, phosphoribulokinase, transketolase, RubisCO, and some of RubisCO fragments were significant only for salt stress.
A Puzzle of Vestibular Physiology in a Meniere’s Disease Acute Attack
Authors: Martinez-Lopez Marta , Manrique-Huarte Raquel , Perez-Fernandez Nicolas
Published: June 2015

The aim of this paper is to present for the first time the functional evaluation of each of the vestibular receptors in the six semicircular canals in a patient diagnosed with Meniere’s disease during an acute attack. A 54-year-old lady was diagnosed with left Meniere’s disease who during her regular clinic review suffers an acute attack of vertigo, with fullness and an increase of tinnitus in her left ear. Spontaneous nystagmus and the results in the video head-impulse test (vHIT) are shown before, during, and after the attack. Nystagmus was initially left beating and a few minutes later an upbeat component was added. No skew deviation was observed. A decrease in the gain of the vestibuloocular reflex (VOR) and the presence of overt saccades were observed when the stimuli were in the plane of the left superior semicircular canal. At the end of the crisis nystagmus decreased and vestibuloocular reflex returned to almost normal. A review of the different possibilities to explain these findings points to a hypothetical utricular damage.
Simulation of a Vibrant Membrane Using a 2-Dimensional Cellular Automaton
Authors: Huerta-Trujillo I. , Chimal-Eguía J. C. , Muñoz-Salazar L. , Martinez-Nuño J. A.
Published: June 2015

This paper proposes a 2-dimensional cellular automaton (CA) model and how to derive the model evolution rule to simulate a two-dimensional vibrant membrane. The resulting model is compared with the analytical solution of a two-dimensional hyperbolic partial differential equation (PDE), linear and homogeneous. This models a vibrant membrane with specific conditions, initial and boundary. The frequency spectrum is analysed as well as the error between the data produced by the CA model. Then it is compared to the data provided by the solution evaluation to the differential equation. This shows how the CA obtains a behavior similar to the PDE. Moreover, it is possible to simulate nonclassical initial conditions for which there is no exact solution using PDE. Very interesting information could be obtained from the CA model such as the fundamental frequency.
Genetic Algorithm and Particle Swarm Optimization Based Cascade Interval Type 2 Fuzzy PD Controller for Rotary Inverted Pendulum System
Authors: Hamza Mukhtar Fatihu , Yap Hwa Jen , Choudhury Imtiaz Ahmed
Published: June 2015

This paper presents the design of an optimized Interval Type 2 Fuzzy Proportional Derivative Controller (IT2F-PDC) in cascade form for Rotary Inverted Pendulum (RIP) system. The parameters of the IT2F-PDC are optimised by using Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The goal is to balance the pendulum in upright unstable equilibrium position. The IT2F-PDC which is the extended version of conventional type 1 fuzzy logic controller, improves the control strategy by using the advantage of its footprint of uncertainty for the fuzzy membership function. The performance characteristics considered for the controller are steady state error, settling time, rise time, maximum overshoot, and control energy. Experimental and simulation results indicated that the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed GA- and PSO-based controllers on the RIP with respect to load disturbances, parameter variation, and noise effects have been improved over state-of-the-art method. However, the comparative results for simulation and experiment based on cascade IT2F-PDC indicate that GA-based IT2F-PDC has lower steady state error while PSO-based IT2F-PDC has lower overshoot, settling time, and control energy, but both have almost the same rise time. The proposed control strategy can be regarded as a promising strategy for controlling different unstable and nonlinear systems.
Significance of Circulating Tumor Cells in Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Nicolazzo Chiara , Gradilone Angela
Published: June 2015

Circulating tumor cells can be detected from the peripheral blood of cancer patients. Their prognostic value has been established in the last 10 years for metastatic colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. On the contrary their presence in patients affected by sarcomas has been poorly investigated. The discovery of EpCAM mRNA expression in different sarcoma cell lines and in a small cohort of metastatic sarcoma patients supports further investigations on these rare tumors to deepen the importance of CTC isolation. Although it is not clear whether EpCAM expression might be originally present on tumor sarcoma cells or acquired during the mesenchymal-epithelial transition, the discovery of EpCAM on circulating sarcoma cells opens a new scenario in CTC detection in patients affected by a rare mesenchymal tumor.
Solitary Crossed Renal Ectopia: Concurrence of Posterior Urethral Valve and Hypospadias
Authors: Bagheri Amin , Khorramirouz Reza , Keihani Sorena , Fareghi Mehdi , Kajbafzadeh Abdol-Mohammad
Published: June 2015

Solitary crossed renal ectopia (SCRE) represents an exceedingly rare congenital disorder. Although skeletal and genitourinary abnormalities most commonly accompany this condition, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) has been described in only a few cases. Here, we present two unique cases of SCRE complicated by high-grade VUR concomitant with posterior urethral valve in one case and hypospadias in the other one. We also provide a brief review of the literature on this subject.
Surface Nanostructure Formations in an AISI 316L Stainless Steel Induced by Pulsed Electron Beam Treatment
Authors: Cai Yang , Zhang Kemin , Zhang Zhimin , Dong Jiawei , Lei Yuan , Zhang Tao
Published: June 2015

High current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) is an efficient technique for surface modifications of metallic materials. In the present work, the formations of surface nanostructures in an AISI 316L stainless steel induced by direct HCPEB treatment and HCPEB alloying have been investigated. After HCPEB Ti alloying, the sample surface contained a mixture of the ferrite and austenite phases with an average grain size of about 90 nm, because the addition of Ti favors the formation of ferrite. In contrast, electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) analyses revealed no structural refinement on the direct HCPEB treated sample. However, transmission electron microscope (TEM) observations showed that fine cells having an average size of 150 nm without misorientations, as well as nanosized carbide particles, were formed in the surface layer after the direct HCPEB treatment. The formation of nanostructures in the 316L stainless steel is therefore attributed to the rapid solidification and the generation of different phases other than the steel substrate in the melted layer.
Halo Evolution of Hypereutectic Al‐17.5Si Alloy Treated with High‐Current Pulsed Electron Beam
Authors: Hu L. , Gao B. , Lv J. K. , Sun S. C. , Hao Y. , Tu G. F.
Published: June 2015

Halo evolution of an Al‐17.5Si alloy surface after treatment with increasing pulse numbers of a high‐current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) was investigated. A halo is a ring microstructure resembling a bull’s eye. SEM results indicate that the nanocrystallization of halo induced by HCPEB treatment leads to gradual diffusion of the Si phase. Multiple pulses numbers cause the Si phase to be significantly refined and uniformly distributed. In addition, nanosilicon particles with a grain size of 30~100 nm were formed after HCPEB treatment, as shown by TEM observation. XRD results indicate that Si diffraction peaks broadened after HCPEB treatment. The microhardness tests demonstrate that the microhardness at the midpoint from the halo edge to center decreased sharply from 9770.7 MPa at 5 pulses to 2664.14 MPa at 25 pulses. The relative wear resistance of a 15‐pulse sample is effectively improved by a factor of 6.5, exhibiting optimal wear resistance.
Macular Development in Aggressive Posterior Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Pandya Hemang K. , Faia Lisa J. , Robinson Joshua , Drenser Kimberly A.
Published: June 2015

Purpose. To report anatomic outcomes after early and confluent laser photocoagulation of the entire avascular retina, including areas in close proximity to the fovea, in patients with APROP. We aspire to demonstrate fundoscopic evidence of transverse growth and macular development following laser treatment in APROP.Methods. Retrospective review of 6 eyes with APROP that underwent confluent laser photocoagulation of the entire avascular retina. Photographic fundoscopic imaging was performed using the RetCam to compare outcomes after treatment.Results. Mean birth weight and gestational age were 704.8 g and 24.33 weeks, respectively. There were 2 females and 1 male. The average time to laser was 9.3 weeks after birth, with the mean postmenstrual age of 34 weeks. Two eyes had zone 1 and 4 eyes had posterior zone 2 disease. Three eyes developed 4A detachments, which were successfully treated. All 6 eyes experienced transverse growth, with expansion of the posterior pole and anterior displacement of the laser treatment.Conclusion. Confluent photocoagulation of the entire avascular retina, regardless of foveal proximity, should be the mainstay for treating APROP. Examination should be conducted within 5–10 days to examine areas previously hidden by neovascularization to ensure prudent therapy. Macular development involves both transverse and anterior-posterior growth.
Serial Next-Generation Sequencing of Circulating Cell-Free DNA Evaluating Tumor Clone Response To Molecularly Targeted Drug Administration
Authors: Frenel Jean Sebastien , Carreira Suzanne , Goodall Jane , Roda Desam , Perez-Lopez Raquel , Tunariu Nina , Riisnaes Ruth , Miranda Susana , Figueiredo Ines , Nava-Rodrigues Daniel , Smith Alan , Leux Christophe , Garcia-Murillas Isaac , Ferraldeschi Roberta , Lorente David , Mateo Joaquin , Ong Michael , Yap Timothy A. , Banerji Udai , Gasi Tandefelt Delila , Turner Nick , Attard Gerhardt , de Bono Johann S.
Published: June 2015

Purpose: We evaluated whether next-generation sequencing (NGS) of circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) could be used for patient selection and as a tumor clone response biomarker in patients with advanced cancers participating in early-phase clinical trials of targeted drugs.

Experimental Design: Plasma samples from patients with known tumor mutations who completed at least two courses of investigational targeted therapy were collected monthly, until disease progression. NGS was performed sequentially on the Ion Torrent PGM platform.

Results: cfDNA was extracted from 39 patients with various tumor types. Treatments administered targeted mainly the PI3K–AKT–mTOR pathway (n = 28) or MEK (n = 7). Overall, 159 plasma samples were sequenced with a mean sequencing coverage achieved of 1,685X across experiments. At trial initiation (C1D1), 23 of 39 (59%) patients had at least one mutation identified in cfDNA (mean 2, range 1–5). Out of the 44 mutations identified at C1D1, TP53, PIK3CA and KRAS were the top 3 mutated genes identified, with 18 (41%), 9 (20%), 8 (18%) different mutations, respectively. Out of these 23 patients, 13 received a targeted drug matching their tumor profile. For the 23 patients with cfDNA mutation at C1D1, the monitoring of mutation allele frequency (AF) in consecutive plasma samples during treatment with targeted drugs demonstrated potential treatment associated clonal responses. Longitudinal monitoring of cfDNA samples with multiple mutations indicated the presence of separate clones behaving discordantly. Molecular changes at cfDNA mutation level were associated with time to disease progression by RECIST criteria.

Conclusions: Targeted NGS of cfDNA has potential clinical utility to monitor the delivery of targeted therapies. Clin Cancer Res; 21(20); 4586–96. ©2015 AACR.
Characterization of the Genotypic Profile of Hepatitis Delta Virus: Isolation of HDV Genotype-1 in the Western Amazon Region of Brazil
Authors: Botelho-Souza Luan Felipo , Souza Vieira Deusilene , de Oliveira dos Santos Alcione , Cunha Pereira André Vinycius , Villalobos-Salcedo Juan Miguel
Published: June 2015

The hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is a hepatotropic subvirus that is dependent on the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and supplies the viral envelope containing the surface antigen of hepatitis B. Viral genetic diversity is related to the geographical origin of the isolates, and there are at least eight genotypes that are referred to as HDV-1 through HDV-8. HDV-3 is responsible for epidemics of severe and fulminant hepatitis, which are common in northeastern South America. HDV-3 is prevalent in the Brazilian Amazon and is associated with the increased aggressiveness of HDV infections. Although isolated, the characteristics of the clinical presentation of HDV-1 in the Amazon region have not yet been clearly reported. Objective: This study aims to assess the genotypic and clinical characteristics of individuals with the HDV-1 genotype in the western Amazon region. Methods: The HDV was genotyped by nested PCR-RFLP and sequencing from serum samples of 56 patients with HBV/HDV infection. The genotypes were correlated with the clinical characteristics presented by patients with HBV/HDV infection. Results: A prevalence of 92.3% for the HDV-3 genotype (n = 48) and 7.6% (n = 4) for the HDV-1 genotype was observed. Conclusion: To date, this is the most extensive clinical study of HDV-1 genotype infections in the nonindigenous population of Western Amazonia.
Cytomorphometric and Morphological Analysis in Women with Trichomonas vaginalis Infection: Micronucleus Frequency in Exfoliated Cervical Epithelial Cells
Authors: Safi Oz Zehra , Doğan Gun Banu , Gun Mustafa Ozkan , Ozdamar Sukru Oguz
Published: June 2015

Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the cytomorphometric and morphological effects of Trichomonas vaginalis in exfoliated epithelial cells. Study Design: Ninety-six Pap-stained cervical smears were divided into a study group and two control groups as follows: T. vaginalis cases, a first control group with inflammation, and a second control group without inflammation. Micronucleated, binucleated, karyorrhectic, karyolytic, and karyopyknotic cells and cells with perinuclear halos per 1,000 epithelial cells were counted. Nuclear and cellular areas were evaluated in 70 clearly defined cells in each smear using image analysis. Results: The frequencies of morphological parameters in the T. vaginalis cases were higher than the values of the two control groups, and the difference among groups was found to be significant (p < 0.05). The nuclear and cytoplasmic areas of epithelial cells were diminished in patients with trichomoniasis. The mean nucleus/cytoplasm ratio in T. vaginalis patients was higher than the value in the control groups, and the difference between the study group and control group 1 was significant. However, there was no statistically significant increase between the study group and control group 2. Conclusions:T. vaginalis exhibited significant changes in the cellular size and nuclear structure of the cells. The rising frequency of micronuclei, nuclear abnormalities, and changing nucleus/cytoplasm ratio may reflect genotoxic damage in trichomoniasis.
Acute Kidney Injury after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Thongprayoon Charat , Cheungpasitporn Wisit , Srivali Narat , Ungprasert Patompong , Kittanamongkolchai Wonngarm , Greason Kevin L. , Kashani Kianoush B.
Published: June 2015

Background: The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Methods: A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and clinicaltrials.gov from inception through October, 2014. Studies that reported relative risks, ORs, or hazard ratios comparing the AKI risk in patients who underwent TAVR versus those who underwent surgical aortic valve replacement were included. We performed the pre-specified sensitivity analysis including only propensity score-based studies. Mortality risk was evaluated among the studies that reported AKI outcome. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random-effect, generic inverse variance method. Results: Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 1,852 patients and 14 cohort studies with 3,113 patients were analyzed to assess the AKI risk in patients undergoing TAVR. The pooled RRs of AKI in patients undergoing TAVR were 0.65 (95% CI 0.36-1.15, I2 = 75%) in the analysis of RCTs and propensity score-based studies and 0.76 (95% CI 0.44-1.34, I2 = 79%) in the analysis of observational studies. Sensitivity analysis in RCTs and propensity score-based studies using a standard AKI definition demonstrated a significant association between TAVR and lower AKI risk (RR 0.35, 95% CI 0.25-0.50, I2 = 0%). Our meta-analyses of RCTs and propensity score-based studies did not find associations between TAVR and reduced risks of severe AKI requiring dialysis (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.38-1.79, I2 = 63%). Conclusions: Our meta-analysis demonstrates an association between TAVR and lower AKI risk.
Antiinflammatory effects of aspirin in ACS: relevant to its cardio coronary actions?
Authors: Schrör Karsten , Hohlfeld Thomas
Published: June 2015

Vascular injury in acute coronary syndromes (ACS) involves a complex cross-talk between inflammatory mediators, platelets and thrombosis, where the interaction between platelets and coagulation factors (e. g. thrombin) is a central link between thrombosis and inflammation. In ACS, aspirin at antiplatelet doses exhibits anti-inflammatory effects as seen from the decrease in inflammation markers such as CRP, M-CSF, MCP-1 and others. These actions probably occur subsequent to inhibition of platelet COX-1-dependent thromboxane formation and its action as a multipotent autocrine and paracrine agent. This likely involves inhibition of thrombin formation as well as inhibition of secondary pro-inflammatory mediators, such as sphingosine-1-phosphate. Experimental and limited clinical data additionally suggest antiinflammatory effects of aspirin independent of its antiplatelet action. For example, aspirin at antiplatelet doses might acetylate COX-2 in vascular cells, directing the activity of the enzyme into a 15-lipoxygenase which by transcellular metabolism results in the formation of 15-epi-lipoxin (‘aspirin-triggered lipoxin’), an antiinflammatory mediator. Furthermore, aspirin stimulates eNOS via lysine-acetylation, eventually resulting in induction of heme oxygenase (HO-1), which improves the antioxidative potential of vascular cells. All of these effects have been seen at antiplatelet doses of 100–300 mg/day, equivalent to peak plasma levels of 10–30 μM. Many more potentially antiinflammatory mechanisms of aspirin have been described, mostly salicy-late-related, at low to medium millimolar concentrations and, therefore, are of minor clinical interest. Altogether, there is a wealth of data supporting antiiflammatory effects of aspirin in ACS, but studies generating direct evidence for antiinflammatory effects in ACS remain to be done.
Cardiac Nonmyocytes in the Hub of Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: Kamo Takehiro , Akazawa Hiroshi , Komuro Issei
Published: June 2015

Cardiac hypertrophy is characterized by complex multicellular alterations, such as cardiomyocyte growth, angiogenesis, fibrosis, and inflammation. The heart consists of myocytes and nonmyocytes, such as fibroblasts, vascular cells, and blood cells, and these cells communicate with each other directly or indirectly via a variety of autocrine or paracrine mediators. Accumulating evidence has suggested that nonmyocytes actively participate in the development of cardiac hypertrophy. In this review, recent progress in our understanding of the importance of nonmyocytes as a hub for induction of cardiac hypertrophy is summarized with an emphasis of the contribution of noncontact communication mediated by diffusible factors between cardiomyocytes and nonmyocytes in the heart.
Do Plaques Rapidly Progress Prior to Myocardial Infarction?
Authors: Ahmadi Amir , Leipsic Jonathon , Blankstein Ron , Taylor Carolyn , Hecht Harvey , Stone Gregg W. , Narula Jagat
Published: June 2015

There is a common misperception in the cardiology community that most acute coronary events arise from ruptures of mildly stenotic plaques. This notion has emanated from multiple studies that had measured the degree of angiographic luminal narrowing in culprit plaques months to years before myocardial infarction. However, angiographic studies within 3 months before myocardial infarction, immediately after myocardial infarction with thrombus aspiration or fibrinolytic therapy, and postmortem pathological observations have all shown that culprit plaques in acute myocardial infarction are severely stenotic. Serial angiographic studies also have demonstrated a sudden rapid lesion progression before most cases of acute coronary syndromes. The possible mechanisms for such rapid plaque progression and consequent luminal obstruction include recurrent plaque rupture and healing and intraplaque neovascularization and hemorrhage with deposition of erythrocyte-derived free cholesterol. Moreover, recent intravascular and noninvasive imaging studies have demonstrated that plaques which result in coronary events have larger plaque volume and necrotic core size with greater positive vessel remodeling compared with plaques, which remain asymptomatic during several years follow-up, although these large atheromatous vulnerable plaques may angiographically seem mild. As such, it is these vulnerable plaques which are more prone to rapid plaque progression or are those in which plaque progression is more likely to become clinically evident. Therefore, in addition to characterizing plaque morphology, inflammatory activity, and severity, detection of the rate of plaque progression might identify vulnerable plaques with an increased potential for adverse outcomes.
Circulating Biomarkers and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Incidence
Authors: Folsom Aaron R. , Yao Lu , Alonso Alvaro , Lutsey Pamela L. , Missov Emil , Lederle Frank A. , Ballantyne Christie M. , Tang Weihong
Published: June 2015

Background—

The pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is complex. Cross-sectional studies have connected circulating biomarkers with AAA, but prospective evidence is limited.

Methods and Results—

In the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study cohort, we measured multiple blood biomarkers of inflammation, hemostasis, thrombin generation, cardiac dysfunction, and vascular stiffness and identified incident AAAs during follow-up using hospital discharge codes. Six biomarkers (white blood cell count, fibrinogen, D-dimer, troponin T, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) were strongly associated positively with AAA incidence. Compared with having none of these 6 biomarkers in the highest quartile, the hazard ratios of AAA for those with 1, 2, 3, or 4 to 6 biomarkers in the highest quartile were 2.2, 3.3, 4.0, and 9.9, respectively (
P
for trend < 0.0001) after adjustment for other risk factors.

Conclusions—

This prospective study found that higher concentrations of 6 biomarkers were associated with increased risk of AAA. The more markers that fell into the highest quartile, the higher the AAA risk was. Multiple positive biomarkers identify a subgroup of patients at high risk of AAA.
Description of the larva of Tetragonoderus (Crossonychus) variegatus Dejean, 1829 (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Cyclosomini) with notes on biology
Authors: SANTOS GUILHERME IDE MARQUES DOS
Published: June 2015

A late instar of the Tetragonoderus (Crossonychus) variegatus Dejean, 1829 larva is described for the first time, and is compared with its first instar, with the larva of another Tetragonoderus species, and with the larva of one Cyclicus species. Habitus and important structures of the larva are illustrated, as well the adult’s membranous wings. Some aspects of the natural history of the larva and adult are also noted.
Redescriptions of three species of freshwater crabs from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa (Brachyura: Potamoidea: Potamonautidae)
Authors: CUMBERLIDGE NEIL
Published: June 2015

The taxonomy of three species of freshwater crabs from the Upper Congo River in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Potamonautes congoensis (Rathbun, 1921), P. langi (Rathbun, 1921), and P. stanleyensis (Rathbun, 1921), is revised based on examination of the holotypes. Updated diagnoses, illustrations, and distribution maps are provided for these species, and their conservation status is discussed.
A checklist of the millipedes (Diplopoda) of Cambodia
Authors: LIKHITRAKARN NATDANAI , GOLOVATCH SERGEI I. , PANHA SOMSAK
Published: June 2015

At the present, the millipede fauna of Cambodia comprises only 19 species from 15 genera, 12 families and 8 orders. These counts certainly represent but a minor fraction of the country’s real diversity of Diplopoda even at the ordinal level, let alone at lower ones. Based on the available information from the adjacent parts of China, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam and/or Laos, the orders Glomerida, Platydesmida, Polyzoniida, Callipodida and Chordeumatida must occur in Cambodia, maybe also Stemmiulida and Siphonocryptida, but none has been recorded there yet. This shows that a lot more collecting effort is required to amass a representative material of Diplopoda of Cambodia to make it available for study.
Gender of the genus Botrylloides Milne Edwards (1841) [Tunicata: Ascidiacea]
Authors: RYLAND JOHN S
Published: June 2015

Milne Edwards (1841) introduced Botrylloides listing species with both feminine and neuter word endings. The International Code on Zoological Nomenclature, however, indicates that generic names ending -oides should be masculine unless the introducing author unambiguously indicated a different gender. The resulting uncertainty has caused prolonged confusion over the correct gender of Botrylloides. It is here affirmed that Milne Edwards did not provide a clear indication of gender and the general rule of the International Code applies: Botrylloides has masculine gender. The type species is B. rotifer Milne Edwards (its ending corrected from the feminine B. rotifera).
A review of the subfamily Rogadinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) from Iran
Authors: FARAHANI SAMIRA , TALEBI ALI ASGHAR , ACHTERBERG CORNELIS VAN , RAKHSHANI EHSAN
Published: June 2015

Specimens of the subfamily Rogadinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) were collected in northern Iran during 2010–2011 with a series of Malaise traps. Twelve species belonging to three genera (Aleiodes Wesmael, 1838, Heterogamus Wesmael, 1838 and Clinocentrus Haliday, 1833) were identified, with one genus (Heterogamus) and seven species new for the fauna of Iran. An updated checklist of the genera and species of the subfamily Rogadinae is included. A total of 26 species belonging to four genera are listed for Iran after correction for misidentifications. A key to the genera and the species of Rogadinae known from Iran is provided.
Penghou, a new genus of flea beetles from China (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae: Alticini)
Authors: RUAN YONG-YING , KONSTANTINOV ALEXANDER S. , PRATHAPAN K. D. , GE SI-QIN , YANG XING-KE
Published: June 2015

A new genus (Penghou) with a single new species (P. yulongshan) from Yunnan Province in China is described and illustrated. It is compared to Hespera Weise, Hesperomorpha Ogloblin, Laotzeus Chen, Luperomorpha Weise, Mandarella Duvivier, Omeiana Chen, Stenoluperus Ogloblin and Taiwanohespera Kimoto.
A revision of the Indian species of Oligosita Walker (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae)
Authors: BEGUM SALMA , ANIS SHOEBA BINTE , KHAN MOHD TALIB
Published: June 2015

The Indian species of the genus Oligosita Walker, 1851 (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) are revised. One new species, Oligosita aseta Begum & Anis, sp. nov., is described based on specimens collected from Kerala, India. A key to the 16 Indian species of the genus is also given.
Lost in the middle of the sea, found in the back of the shelf: A new giant species of Trachylepis (Squamata: Scincidae) from Tinhosa Grande islet, Gulf of Guinea
Authors: CERÍACO LUIS M. P.
Published: June 2015

A new species of Trachylepis is described from Tinhosa Grande islet, São Tomé e Príncipe, Gulf of Guinea. Tinhosa Grande islet is a small (20.5 ha), isolated desert islet used by several bird communities as a nesting place. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by its color pattern, size and lepidosis. Due to its limited geographical distribution the new species appears to be one of the most vulnerable vertebrate species on the planet. In this study we provide a brief discussion on the natural history of the new species, as well as conservation concerns and suggestions.
The Long-Term Recovery of New Orleans’ Population After Hurricane Katrina
Authors: Fussell Elizabeth
Published: June 2015

Hurricane Katrina created a catastrophe in the City of New Orleans when the storm surge caused the levee system to fail on August 29, 2005. The destruction of housing displaced hundreds of thousands of residents for varying lengths of time, often permanently. It also revealed gaps in our knowledge of how population is recovered after a disaster causes widespread destruction of urban infrastructure and housing. In this article, I identify social, spatial, and temporal explanatory frameworks for housing and population recovery and use them to review research findings on mobility—both evacuation and migration—after Hurricane Katrina. The review reveals a need for a comprehensive social, spatial, and temporal framework for explaining inequality in population displacement and recovery.
Changes and Challenges in Crime and Criminal Justice After Disaster
Authors: Frailing Kelly , Harper Dee Wood , Serpas Ronal
Published: June 2015

While prosocial behavior is widely observable after disaster, there is undeniable evidence that antisocial behavior also occurs in the immediate and longer term aftermath of disaster. We begin by examining the crime that occurred in New Orleans in the immediate wake of Katrina and the circumstances that facilitated it. We also take a longer term look at one of New Orleans’ most intractable crime problems, that of murder. We explore Katrina’s direct and indirect effect on murder rates in New Orleans, including innovative law enforcement responses to this crime. We conclude with a discussion of policies and practices relevant to reducing crime in the immediate and longer term wake of disaster that incorporate law enforcement and other initiatives.
IGF-1 and Insulin Resistance Are Major Determinants of Common Carotid Artery Thickness in Morbidly Obese Young Patients
Authors: Sirbu Anca , Nicolae Horia , Martin Sorina , Barbu Carmen , Copaescu Catalin , Florea Suzana , Panea Cristina , Fica Simona
Published: June 2015

We assessed the relationship between insulin resistance, serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, and common carotid intima–media thickness (CC-IMT) in morbidly obese young patients. A total of 249 patients (aged 37.9 ± 9.8 years, body mass index [BMI] 45.6 ± 8.3 kg/m2) were evaluated (metabolic tests, serum IGF-1 measurements, homeostasis model assessment—insulin resistance [HOMA-IR], and ultrasonographically assessed CC-IMT) in a research program for bariatric surgery candidates. After adjusting for age, gender, BMI, systolic blood pressure, uric acid, antihypertensive and lipid-lowering treatment, metabolic syndrome, and metabolic class, both HOMA-IR and IGF-1 z-score were significantly associated with CC-IMT. These results were confirmed in logistic regression analysis, in which age (β = 1.11, P = .001), gender (β = 3.19, P = .001), HOMA-IR (β = 1.221, P = .005), and IGF-1 z-score (β = 1.734, P = .009) were the only independent determinants of abnormal CC-IMT, presumably modulating the effect of the other risk factors included in the regression. Area under the receiver–operating characteristic curve for the model was 0.841 (confidence interval: 0.776-0.907; P < .001). In conclusion, in morbidly obese young adults, insulin resistance and IGF-1 z-score are significantly associated with CC-IMT, independent of other major cardiovascular risk factors.
Value of Ultrasound in Detecting Urinary Tract Anomalies After First Febrile Urinary Tract Infection in Children
Authors: Ghobrial Emad E. , Abdelaziz Doaa M. , Sheba Maha F. , Abdel-Azeem Yasser S.
Published: June 2015

Background. Urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects part of the urinary tract. Ultrasound is a noninvasive test that can demonstrate the size and shape of kidneys, presence of dilatation of the ureters, and the existence of anatomic abnormalities. The aim of the study is to estimate the value of ultrasound in detecting urinary tract anomalies after first attack of UTI. Methods. This study was conducted at the Nephrology Clinic, New Children’s Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, from August 2012 to March 2013, and included 30 children who presented with first attack of acute febrile UTI. All patients were subjected to urine analysis, urine culture and sensitivity, serum creatinine, complete blood count, and imaging in the form of renal ultrasound, voiding cysto-urethrography, and renal scan. Results. All the patients had fever with a mean of 38.96°C ± 0.44°C and the mean duration of illness was 6.23 ± 5.64 days. Nineteen patients (63.3%) had an ultrasound abnormality. The commonest abnormalities were kidney stones (15.8%). Only 2 patients who had abnormal ultrasound had also vesicoureteric reflux on cystourethrography. Sensitivity of ultrasound was 66.7%, specificity was 37.5%, positive predictive value was 21.1%, negative predictive value was 81.8%, and total accuracy was 43.33%. Conclusion. We concluded that ultrasound alone was not of much value in diagnosing and putting a plan of first attack of febrile UTI. It is recommended that combined investigations are the best way to confirm diagnosis of urinary tract anomalies.
Think tanks exist to influence: A conversation with Rohinton Medhora
Authors: de Boer John
Published: June 2015

In this interview, Rohinton Medhora, the president of the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), joins John de Boer (senior policy adviser at the United Nations University) for a conversation exploring the notion of think tanks as influence peddlers and the future of foreign policy think tanks in Canada.
The Crisis of New Labor and Alinsky’s Legacy
Authors: Eimer Stuart
Published: June 2015

This comment questions Jane McAlevey’s attempt to move from a participant observation of one organizing campaign to broad generalizations about the failure of “New Labor.” It challenges the ideal type that she constructs by considering aspects of another “new labor” local, and problematizes her conception of interests as they pertain to both workers and unions.
Network Ties and Congressional Delegation to U.S. Federal Agencies
Authors: Lee Jongkon
Published: June 2015

Many public administration studies have argued that agency network activity brings about important policy benefits such as informational advantages and stakeholder support. Given the proposition, agency network activity would positively affect congressional delegation because policymaking authority tends to be delegated to the agencies that can achieve appropriate policy outcomes. This hypothesis is examined by several regression tests using data from U.S. federal agencies. Statistical results indicate that the agencies with significant network ties are likely to yield more appropriate public policies and have greater statutory discretion.
Young Women’s Anger in Romantic Relationships: Gendered Rules and Power
Authors: Jaramillo-Sierra Ana L. , Allen Katherine R. , Kaestle Christine E.
Published: June 2015

We used a social constructionist and feminist framework to examine how young women negotiate gendered rules for anger in their romantic relationships and how such negotiations are associated with women’s power in these relationships. We analyzed 24 interviews using a grounded-theory methodology. Our analyses indicated five women resisted gendered rules for anger as they accepted their anger, attributed shared responsibility for their anger, and expressed their anger externally and directly. The other 19 young women followed gendered rules for anger as they distanced themselves from their anger, ambivalently attributed responsibility for their anger, and kept their anger in and expressed it indirectly. Women who resisted gendered rules for anger narrated being engaged in egalitarian relationships, while women who followed gendered rules for anger seemed to participate in nonegalitarian relationships. The findings of this study offer a feminist conceptualization of women’s anger in terms of social rules for anger experience and expression.