bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution of Amniotic Fluid along Gestation to the Prediction of Perinatal Mortality in Women with Early Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes
Authors: Cobo Teresa , Munrós Jordina , Ríos José , Ferreri Janisse , Migliorelli Federico , Baños Núria , Gratacós Eduard , Palacio Montse
Published: May 2017

Introduction: To evaluate the largest vertical pocket (LVP) of amniotic fluid as a time-dependent factor to predict perinatal mortality in women with early preterm premature rupture of membranes (EPPROM). Material and Methods: Observational cohort study of singleton pregnancies with EPPROM <24 weeks. Termination of pregnancy (TOP) was considered if the LVP was <2 cm at 7 days. The maternal and neonatal characteristics of ongoing pregnancies were recorded. Prediction of perinatal mortality was estimated based on the influence of the LVP as a time-dependent factor after adjustment for maternal age, prior invasive procedure, and gestational age at EPPROM. Results: Of 104 women, 39 requested TOP. Neonatal survival to discharge was 40%, increasing to 74% if pregnancies achieved 24 weeks. LVP at admission <1 cm, latency to delivery, and gestational age at delivery were independent predictors of perinatal mortality. When evaluating the LVP at different time points of gestation, the highest perinatal mortality risk was established at 2 weeks (odds ratio 14.67, p < 0.001) after membrane rupture, being 5.75 (p = 0.05) the week after and 10.93 (p = 0.037) beyond 2 weeks of EPPROM. Discussion: When LVP measurement, gestational age at EPPROM, maternal age, and prior invasive procedure were considered, we found that the worst prognosis related to perinatal mortality was at 2 weeks after EPPROM.
Capn4 Enhances Osteopontin Expression through Activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway to Promote Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma Metastasis
Authors: Yang Xiaoming , Sun Jing , Xia Dandan , Can Xupei , Liu Lei , Zhang Jing , Xu Huali , Du Na , Liu Wenxue , Shen Fangqian , Zhang Zhenbo , Sun Yunyan , Xi  Xiaowei
Published: May 2017

Background and Aim: Increasing evidence shows that the calpain regulatory subunit Capn4 can modulate the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells, and plays an important role in the development of malignant tumors. However, there is no information on the clinical significance of Capn4 in epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) or the molecular mechanisms by which Capn4 promotes the growth and metastasis of EOC. Therefore, the aim of this study was to clarify the role of Capn4 in EOC. Methods: We evaluated Capn4 and osteopontin (OPN) expression in EOC cell lines and tissues from patients with ovarian cancer by western blotting and immunohistochemical analysis. We then created cell lines with downregulated and upregulated Capn4 expression, using Capn4-targeting small interfering RNA and a pcDNA3.1-Capn4 overexpression vector, respectively, to investigate its function in EOC in vitro. In addition, we investigated the potential mechanism underlying the function of Capn4 by examining the effect of modifying Capn4 expression on Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway-related genes by western blotting. Results: Capn4 was overexpressed in clinical EOC tissues compared with that in normal ovarian epithelial tissue, and was associated with poor clinical outcomes. Upon silencing or overexpressing Capn4 in EOC cells, we concluded that Capn4 promotes cell proliferation and migration in vitro. Furthermore, Capn4 promoted EOC metastasis by interacting with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway to upregulate OPN expression. Conclusion: Our study indicates that Capn4 plays a critical role in the progression and metastasis of EOC, and could be a potential therapeutic target for EOC management.
PKC-α Triggers EGFR Ubiquitination, Endocytosis and ERK Activation in Podocytes Stimulated with High Glucose
Authors: Lei Chun-Tao , Wei Yan-Hong , Tang Hui , Wen Qian , Ye Chen , Zhang Chun , Su Hua
Published: May 2017

Background: Protein Kinase C-α (PKC-α) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are both involved in diabetic kidney disease; however, the connection between these two proteins during high glucose-induced podocyte injury remains uncertain. Methods: Diabetes was induced in SD rats by streptozotocin (STZ). Fourteen days later, the kidney cortex was removed and subjected to plasma membrane isolation and lipid raft fractionation. In vitro study human podocyte cell line was differentiated and subjected to various treatments. The levels of membranous protein and endocytosis were assessed by biotinylation and sodium 2-mercaptoethane sulfonate (MesNa) treatment. Gö6976 and PYR-41 were used as inhibitors of PKC-α and ubiquitin activating E1 enzyme, respectively. Results: In diabetic rats, the abundance of PKC-α in the membranous fraction and the lipid raft domain is elevated, whereas the EGFR level is reduced. Consistently, in vitro high glucose treated podocytes, membranous EGFR is downregulated with increased PKC-α. Furthermore, the ubiquitination and endocytosis of EGFR are enhanced accompanied by extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) signaling activation and podocyte damage during hyperglycemia. However, these processes can be ameliorated by inhibition of either PKC-α or ubiquitin activating E1 enzyme. Conclusion: During hyperglycemia, PKC-α mediates podocytic EGFR ubiquitination, endocytosis from cell surface and the subsequent ERK activation, which contributes to podocyte injury.
Response of digestive organs of Hypsiboas albopunctatus (Anura: Hylidae) to benzo[α]pyrene
Authors: Fanali Lara Zácari , Valverde Bruno Serra de Lacerda , Franco-Belussi Lilian , Provete Diogo B. , de Oliveira Classius
Published: May 2017

Anurans are exposed to several pollutants. One of these is benzo[α]pyrene (BaP). This compound is produced by incomplete combustion and is toxic to the liver and intestine, where it is metabolized. Here, we tested how different concentrations of BaP affect the thickness of small intestine and liver melanomacrophages (MMCs) ofHypsiboas albopunctatusduring short- and long-term exposures. We conducted an experiment with a 3 × 2 factorial design to answer these two questions. Male specimens were separated into groups injected with either 3 or 7 mg/kg of BaP and euthanized after either 72 or 168 h. Then, we measured the thickness of the intestinal epithelium and the area occupied by MMCs. The thickness of intestinal epithelium decreased in both high and low concentration for short-term exposure compared to control, and increased in the long-term group in both low and high concentrations. The short-term decrease in thickness is due to the damage caused by BaP on the absorptive capacity of the epithelium, whereas the epithelium increased its thickness and recovered normal activity in the long-term. High BaP concentration decreased the area of MMCs in the short-term group. The increase in MMCs is associated with the detoxifying role of these cells, while the decrease was triggered by cellular stress due to high BaP concentration. The concentrations of BaP we used are close to those found in polluted environments. Therefore, water contaminated with BaP can potentially affect the morphology of internal organs of anurans.
Adapted formulations for entomopathogenic nematodes, Steinernema and Heterorhabditis spp.
Authors: Guo Wenxiu , Yan Xun , Han Richou
Published: May 2017

The effects of carriers, temperatures, concentrations of the infective juveniles (IJ) and a fungicide on the survival and infectivity of five nematode species,Steinernema carpocapsae,S. feltiae,S. longicaudum,Heterorhabditis bacteriophoraandH. indica, were evaluated to establish the adapted formulations for these nematodes. Vermiculite and humus were good carriers for the storage of the threeSteinernemaspecies, with more than 90% IJ survival after 120 days at 5°C, 80 days at 15°C and at least 20 days at 25°C, and 90% survival for the storage ofH. bacteriophoraafter 10 days at 5°C and 15°C. After 10 days at 25°C,ca80% IJ survival was recorded forH. bacteriophoraandH. indica. Althoughca90% IJ survival was found after 10 days at 15°C forH. indica, this species did not tolerate low temperature, with survival less than 40% after 10 days at 5°C. The ratios of the IJ and the carriers in the ranges of 1:0.8-1:1.2 (w/w) did not significantly influence the survival of all nematode species. The vermiculite formulation containing a fungicide Proxel GXL at concentrations of 0.1% and 0.2% increased the survival of twoHeterorhabditisspecies.Heterorhabditis bacteriophoraandH. indicacould be stored for 60 and 40 days, respectively, at 15°C in aerated water with 90% IJ survival, compared with the vermiculite formulation. The tested formulations did not significantly influence the infectivity of the IJ from the formulations with IJ survival more than 80%. The results provide alternative formulation methods for the commercial storage of these beneficial nematodes.
A Challenge for the Academic Study of Religion: No Such Thing as ‘Sacred’ Cows, Right?
Authors: Gadsby Blair Alan
Published: May 2017

Teaching religion in public education can benefit from the discourse in Religious Studies (rs) around the problem/problemof defining religion. This is nowhere truer than in community college (cc). However, the notion that the term ‘religion’ is of limited value (represented here asproblem) is of not-much-use inccdue to religion’s perceptible nature. It is evident to citizens that there is ‘religion’, and while not-much-clear about it by way ofrsdefinitions, it is anidentifiable and operative category. I cite the incident of Frank Roque the “9/11 Revenge Killer” to show that there is such a category in the minds of the public and utilize Stark and Bainbridge’sA Theory of Religionto focus the discourse beyond theproblemto the pedagogic and heuristic potentials of the problem for educators and ultimately citizens. The challenge forrsis to find ways for its analyses of religions to have a better effect in society. Otherwise, the categorywillbe shaped by other forces as revealed in the words of the murderer regarding his Sikh victim, “I just viewed them all as just hateful Muslims.”
Fritillaria messanensis subsp. gracilis (Liliaceae), a new record for the Italian flora (S Italy)
Authors: PERUZZI LORENZO , INNANGI MICHELE , TATINO FILIPPO , SANTANGELO ANNALISA
Published: May 2017

The genus Fritillaria Linnaeus (1753: 303) (Liliaceae) is the largest within Liliaceae tribe Lilieae Lam. & DC. (Peruzzi et al. 2009a, Carta & Peruzzi 2016). The latter tribe is composed by bulbous, herbaceous plants, with a bulb composed by 2–3 to many scales, anthers dorsifixed, fruit a loculicide capsule with seeds usually winged (Peruzzi 2016). Fritillaria includes about 140 species of perennial bulbous geophytes distributed in the Northern Hemisphere, from North America to Mediterranean region and temperate Asia (Bartolucci et al. 2009), and is subdivided in eight subgenera and a number of sections and series. Fritillaria messanensis Raf. in Desveaux (1814: 272) belongs to F. subg. Fritillaria sect. Fritillaria. According to Kamari & Phitos (2006), Peruzzi et al. (2009b) and Kranjčev & Šešok (2016), F. messanensis consists of four subspecies: F. messanensis subsp. messanensis, occurring in Greece (Mt. Olimbos and Peloponnese) and S Italy (Calabria and Sicily); F. messanensis subsp. gracilis (Ebel 1842: 8) Rix (1978: 356), occurring in the Ionian Islands, Albania, S Croatia, Serbia and Montenegro (see also Tomović et al. 2007); F. messanensis subsp. neglecta (Parlatore 1857: 415) Nyman (1882: 721), endemic to Croatia, and F. messanensis subsp. sphaciotica (Gandoger 1916: 156.) Kamari & Phitos (2006: 225), endemic to Crete.
Tanytarsini (Diptera: Chironomidae) from madicolous habitat in Southeast Brazil: new species and new records
Authors: TRIVINHO-STRIXINO SUSANA , SHIMABUKURO ERIKA MAYUMI
Published: May 2017

Tanytarsini (Diptera: Chironomidae: Chironominae) collected from madicolous habitats in Brazil are analyzed, and three new species of Tanytarsus van der Wulp are described and illustrated: T. angelae sp. n. and T. alaidae sp. n. as adult male and T. alienus sp. n. as male and female. New records of another Brazilian Tanytarsus species are also presented, and immature stages of Paratanytarsus silentii Trivinho-Strixino are described.
Seasonal and Interannual Variabilities of the Central Indian Ocean Mode
Authors: Zhou Lei , Murtugudde Raghu , Chen Dake , Tang Youmin
Published: May 2017

The central Indian Ocean (CIO) mode, an intrinsic coupled mode, plays an important role in the intraseasonal variabilities over the Indian monsoon region. Besides the intraseasonal variabilities, the CIO mode also has pronounced seasonal and interannual variabilities. The CIO mode is active during boreal summer but suppressed during boreal winter. The seasonality is mainly attributable to the barotropic instability, which is caused by the large meridional shear of zonal winds. By decomposing the temporal tendency of the meridional gradient of zonal winds, it is found that the zonal wind shear mainly follows the variation of the horizontal eddy flux, which indicates the importance of the multiscale interaction in tropical dynamics. The interannual variability of the CIO mode also depends on the energy transfer associated with the barotropic instability. The influences of El Niño or La Niña and Indian Ocean dipole–zonal mode (IODZM) on the CIO mode are analyzed. El Niño and La Niña have moderate impacts on the CIO mode. El Niño weakens the CIO mode and La Niña strengthens it via the changes in the low-level zonal wind shear. IODZM does not significantly change the amplitude of the CIO mode but can shift its latitudinal position by modifying the meridional shear of the zonal winds. The low-frequency variabilities of the CIO mode at seasonal and interannual time scales unveil the impacts of the background circulations at the intraseasonal variabilities during the Indian summer monsoon in a multiscale framework. While the low-frequency variabilities of this mode will clearly have an implication for monsoon variability and prediction, further studies are needed to quantify the impacts.
Laser-Induced Photofragmentation Fluorescence Imaging of Alkali Compounds in Flames
Authors: Leffler Tomas , Brackmann Christian , Aldén Marcus , Li Zhongshan
Published: May 2017

Laser-induced photofragmentation fluorescence has been investigated for the imaging of alkali compounds in premixed laminar methane–air flames. An ArF excimer laser, providing pulses of wavelength 193 nm, was used to photodissociate KCl, KOH, and NaCl molecules in the post-flame region and fluorescence from the excited atomic alkali fragment was detected. Fluorescence emission spectra showed distinct lines of the alkali atoms allowing for efficient background filtering. Temperature data from Rayleigh scattering measurements together with simulations of potassium chemistry presented in literature allowed for conclusions on the relative contributions of potassium species KOH and KCl to the detected signal. Experimental approaches for separate measurements of these components are discussed. Signal power dependence and calculated fractions of dissociated molecules indicate the saturation of the photolysis process, independent on absorption cross-section, under the experimental conditions. Quantitative KCl concentrations up to 30 parts per million (ppm) were evaluated from the fluorescence data and showed good agreement with results from ultraviolet absorption measurements. Detection limits for KCl photofragmentation fluorescence imaging of 0.5 and 1.0 ppm were determined for averaged and single-shot data, respectively. Moreover, simultaneous imaging of KCl and NaCl was demonstrated using a stereoscope with filters. The results indicate that the photofragmentation method can be employed for detailed studies of alkali chemistry in laboratory flames for validation of chemical kinetic mechanisms crucial for efficient biomass fuel utilization.
Modeling Tomato Ripening Based on Carotenoid Raman Spectroscopy: Experimental Versus Kinetic Model
Authors: Martin Daniel , Gonzalvez Alicia G. , Medina Rocio Mateos , González Ureña Angel
Published: May 2017

This work reports on a combined experimental and theoretical investigation on the carotenoid Raman signal in several tomato fruits during their postharvest time evolution and ripening. Both resonant (180°) backscattering and polarized (90°) Raman scattering were used to monitor the most prominent bands of carotenoid (lycopene and β-carotene) evolution in different tomato varieties. Relevant findings of the present investigations were that while the depolarization ratio of the ν1 band hardly changed with time, the Raman ν1 band intensity did change showing a similar pattern for all tomatoes investigated. Indeed, all cases investigated revealed a rise of the carotenoid signal coincident with the onset of the turning stage of the fruit ripening, a pronounced maximum of the Raman signal followed by a post-maximum decline at the red ripening stage. A kinetic model has been developed to describe the time evolution of the observed Raman signatures based on the rate coefficient of the carotenoid synthesis and the time evolution of the scattering coefficient of the fruit. The model describes satisfactorily the tomato evolution through the distinct ripening stages providing new insight on the assessment of the postharvest fruit control and quality.
Second Harmonic Correlation Spectroscopy: Theory and Principles for Determining Surface Binding Kinetics
Authors: Sly Krystal L. , Conboy John C.
Published: May 2017

A novel application of second harmonic correlation spectroscopy (SHCS) for the direct determination of molecular adsorption and desorption kinetics to a surface is discussed in detail. The surface-specific nature of second harmonic generation (SHG) provides an efficient means to determine the kinetic rates of adsorption and desorption of molecular species to an interface without interference from bulk diffusion, which is a significant limitation of fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). The underlying principles of SHCS for the determination of surface binding kinetics are presented, including the role of optical coherence and optical heterodyne mixing. These properties of SHCS are extremely advantageous and lead to an increase in the signal-to-noise (S/N) of the correlation data, increasing the sensitivity of the technique. The influence of experimental parameters, including the uniformity of the TEM00 laser beam, the overall photon flux, and collection time are also discussed, and are shown to significantly affect the S/N of the correlation data. Second harmonic correlation spectroscopy is a powerful, surface-specific, and label-free alternative to other correlation spectroscopic methods for examining surface binding kinetics.
A Review of the Principles and Applications of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy to Characterize Meat, Fat, and Meat Products
Authors: Prieto Nuria , Pawluczyk Olga , Dugan Michael Edward Russell , Aalhus Jennifer Lynn
Published: May 2017

Consumer demand for quality and healthfulness has led to a higher need for quality assurance in meat production. This requirement has increased interest in near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy due to the ability for rapid, environmentally friendly, and noninvasive prediction of meat quality or authentication of added-value meat products. This review includes the principles of NIR spectroscopy, pre-processing methods, and multivariate analyses used for quantitative and qualitative purposes in the meat sector. Recent advances in portable NIR spectrometers that enable new online applications in the meat industry are shown and their performance evaluated. Discrepancies between published studies and potential sources of variability are discussed, and further research is encouraged to face the challenges of using NIRS technology in commercial applications, so that its full potential can be achieved.
Effects of Composites Containing Bioactive Glasses on Demineralized Dentin
Authors: Tezvergil-Mutluay A. , Seseogullari-Dirihan R. , Feitosa V.P. , Cama G. , Brauer D.S. , Sauro S.
Published: May 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate the degradation of completely demineralized dentin specimens in contact with a filler-free or 2 ion-releasing resins containing micrometer-sized particles of Bioglass 45S5 (BAG) or fluoride-containing phosphate-rich bioactive glass (BAG-F). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were also used to evaluate the remineralization induced by the experimental ion-releasing resin-based materials. Dentin beams were totally demineralized in H3PO4 (10%) and placed in direct contact with a filler-free (RESIN) or 2 experimental ion-releasing resins (BAG or BAG-F) and immersed in artificial saliva (AS) up to 30 d. Further specimens were also processed and submitted to FTIR and SEM analysis to evaluate the remineralization induced by such ion-releasing resins before and after AS immersion. BAG and BAG-F alkalinized the incubation media. A significant decrease of the dry mass was observed between the specimens of all groups stored for 3 and 30 d in AS. However, the fluoride-containing phosphate-rich bioactive glass incorporated into a resin-based material (BAG-F) showed greater ability in reducing the solubilization of C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide (ICTP) and C-terminal telopeptide (CTX) after prolonged AS storage. Moreover, after 30 d of AS storage, BAG-F showed the greatest remineralizing effect on the stiffness of the completely demineralized dentin matrices. In conclusion, fluoride-containing phosphate-rich bioactive glass incorporated as micrometer-sized filler in dental composites may offer greater beneficial effects than Bioglass 45S5 in reducing the enzyme-mediated degradation and remineralization of demineralized dentin.
Public Interest in Veterans’ Lottery Tickets
Authors: Yaskewich David M.
Published: May 2017

While many states earmark lottery proceeds for education programs, a few states have started allocating portions of lottery revenues toward state-provided services for military veterans. The decision to shift funds toward veterans’ services and away from other programs creates an opportunity to study society’s willingness to help veterans when faced with real trade-offs. Using county-level data from three states, I examined public interest in veterans’ lottery tickets by analyzing consumer and voter behaviors. In two states that sold veterans’ tickets, IA and TX, a similar set of county-level variables explained variation in both veterans’ and nonveterans’ ticket sales. However, there were a few cases in which sales patterns differed across ticket categories. Election results from a statewide referendum in MO to create a veterans’ lottery ticket suggested that opposition came from counties with a large proportion of college graduates and high population densities.
Evaluation of uncertainty of measurement of shadow mask dot pitch using different approaches
Authors: Moona Girija , Sharma Rina , Kumar Harish
Published: May 2017

The present paper discusses procedure for uncertainty of measurement evaluation in an experimental investigation to measure shadow mask dot pitch using laser interferometry. Here, we discuss evaluation of uncertainty of measurement in accordance to Law of propagation of uncertainties (GUM/LPU) and Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) approaches. MCS has been recognized as an alternative approach to LPU in guide to measurement uncertainties (GUM) for evaluation of uncertainty of measurement and other related applications. A comparison of findings of GUM/LPU and MCS is made, which appears to be in good agreement. The present study attempts to investigate the suitability of MCS for evaluation of measurement of uncertainty in case of shadow mask dot pitch and reveals the significance of MCS in this regard.
Enhancing Climate Change Resilience Through Microfinance: Redefining the Climate Finance Paradigm to Promote Inclusive Growth in Africa
Authors: Chirambo Dumisani
Published: May 2017

Poverty, inequality, unemployment, and unsustainable resource consumption are prevalent in Africa due to a lack of inclusive growth. The impacts of climate change are also considered to have hindered progress on achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Through literature reviews and policy analyses, this article presents suggestions on how inclusive growth can be attained in the post-2015 development agenda, and also presents a framework to enable microfinance institutions to promote both inclusive growth, and climate change mitigation and adaptation. The article shows that microfinance can support the mobilization of resources for climate change programs; hence, financial inclusion should be incorporated in climate change policies.
The Use of Language to Disempower: Two Related Studies of Women in Sri Lanka
Authors: Hancock Peter , Georgiou Jonathan
Published: May 2017

The rise of economic liberalism in Sri Lanka in the latter half of the twentieth century has generated a continuous, powerful, and controversial debate about women in the workforce. Local politicians and powerful societal forces have used discourse to display power in the media and wider society. Gender issues were used as a platform to engage in unrelated political agendas and criticize export processing zones (EPZs), female workers, and female sexuality. Our research in Sri Lanka sampled more than 4,000 women over 14 years. The article uses data from two research studies from 2008–2011 (Study 1) and from 2013–2014 (Study 2) in Sri Lanka. The studies are interrelated. Each analyse the levels of empowerment and disempowerment experienced by women, due specifically to the negative discourse they faced on a daily basis – both as part of their life as EPZ workers (study 1) and after returning to their villages (Study 2). Serious pieces of negative discourse stand out as examples of misleading speech and attempt to subjugate women through power. Our interviews with Sri Lankan EPZ workers show that young women are described as Juki girls, a pejorative term used with a negative connotation. Moreover, EPZs are often referred to as whore zones or love zones due to the stigma created by society and pushed by a political agenda in national political discourse, such as: “Our innocent girls are sewing underwear for white women” (Lynch, 2002, p. 82). The questions in both studies were designed to assess the respondents’ experiences of power (or powerlessness) and empowerment. Study 1 shows that nearly all of the women surveyed (95.3 percent) reported feeling empowered as a result of their work in EPZs. The respondents also indicated empowerment across their home as well. However, societal level disempowerment was significant, much of it emanating in the public arena and in societal and political resistance to EPZ workers. Concurrently, results of Study 2 demonstrated lower but significant negative experiences as a result of work in formal manufacturing. Less than 10 percent (7.2 percent) experienced humiliation in public, their community or society while working in the manufacturing industry, and only 12 percent reported experiencing negative societal attitudes upon first returning home from their work in EPZs.
Risk factors and mechanisms of stroke in young adults: The FUTURE study
Authors: van Alebeek Mayte E , Arntz Renate M , Ekker Merel S , Synhaeve Nathalie E , Maaijwee Noortje AMM , Schoonderwaldt Hennie , van der Vlugt Maureen J , van Dijk Ewoud J , Rutten-Jacobs Loes CA , de Leeuw Frank-Erik
Published: May 2017

Incidence of ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack in young adults is rising. However, etiology remains unknown in 30–40% of these patients when current classification systems designed for the elderly are used. Our aim was to identify risk factors according to a pediatric approach, which might lead to both better identification of risk factors and provide a stepping stone for the understanding of disease mechanism, particularly in patients currently classified as “unknown etiology”. Risk factors of 656 young stroke patients (aged 18–50) of the FUTURE study were categorized according to the “International Pediatric Stroke Study” (IPSS), with stratification on gender, age and stroke of “unknown etiology”. Categorization of risk factors into ≥1 IPSS category was possible in 94% of young stroke patients. Chronic systemic conditions were more present in patients aged <35 compared to patients ≥35 (32.6% vs. 15.6%, p < 0.05). Among 226 patients classified as “stroke of unknown etiology” using TOAST, we found risk factors in 199 patients (88%) with the IPSS approach. We identified multiple risk factors linked to other mechanisms of stroke in the young than in the elderly . This can be a valuable starting point to develop an etiologic classification system specifically designed for young stroke patients.
Characterization of human fetal brain endothelial cells reveals barrier properties suitable for in vitro modeling of the BBB with syngenic co-cultures
Authors: Andrews Allison M , Lutton Evan M , Cannella Lee A , Reichenbach Nancy , Razmpour Roshanak , Seasock Matthew J , Kaspin Steven J , Merkel Steven F , Langford Dianne , Persidsky Yuri , Ramirez Servio H
Published: May 2017

Endothelial cells (ECs) form the basis of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), a physical barrier that selectively restricts transport into the brain. In vitro models can provide significant insight into BBB physiology, mechanisms of human disease pathology, toxicology, and drug delivery. Given the limited availability of primary human adult brain microvascular ECs ( aBMVECs), human fetal tissue offers a plausible alternative source for multiple donors and the opportunity to build syngenic tri-cultures from the same host. Previous efforts to culture fetal brain microvascular ECs ( fBMVECs) have not been successful in establishing mature barrier properties. Using optimal gestational age for isolation and flow cytometry cell sorting, we show for the first time that fBMVECs demonstrate mature barrier properties. fBMVECs exhibited similar functional phenotypes when compared to aBMVECs for barrier integrity, endothelial activation, and gene/protein expression of tight junction proteins and transporters. Importantly, we show that tissue used to culture fBMVECs can also be used to generate a syngenic co-culture, creating a microfluidic BBB on a chip. The findings presented provide a means to overcome previous challenges that limited successful barrier formation by fBMVECs. Furthermore, the source is advantageous for autologous reconstitution of the neurovascular unit for next generation in vitro BBB modeling.
Dynamic brain glucose metabolism identifies anti-correlated cortical-cerebellar networks at rest
Authors: Tomasi Dardo G , Shokri-Kojori Ehsan , Wiers Corinde E , Kim Sunny W , Demiral Şukru B , Cabrera Elizabeth A , Lindgren Elsa , Miller Gregg , Wang Gene-Jack , Volkow Nora D
Published: May 2017

It remains unclear whether resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rfMRI) networks are associated with underlying synchrony in energy demand, as measured by dynamic 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoroglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET). We measured absolute glucose metabolism, temporal metabolic connectivity (t-MC) and rfMRI patterns in 53 healthy participants at rest. Twenty-two rfMRI networks emerged from group independent component analysis (gICA). In contrast, only two anti-correlated t-MC emerged from FDG-PET time series using gICA or seed-voxel correlations; one included frontal, parietal and temporal cortices, the other included the cerebellum and medial temporal regions. Whereas cerebellum, thalamus, globus pallidus and calcarine cortex arose as the strongest t-MC hubs, the precuneus and visual cortex arose as the strongest rfMRI hubs. The strength of the t-MC linearly increased with the metabolic rate of glucose suggesting that t-MC measures are strongly associated with the energy demand of the brain tissue, and could reflect regional differences in glucose metabolism, counterbalanced metabolic network demand, and/or differential time-varying delivery of FDG. The mismatch between metabolic and functional connectivity patterns computed as a function of time could reflect differences in the temporal characteristics of glucose metabolism as measured with PET-FDG and brain activation as measured with rfMRI.
Quantification of visceral adipose tissue in polycystic ovary syndrome: dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry versus magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Frøssing Signe , Nylander Malin Chatarina , Chabanova Elizaveta , Kistorp Caroline , Skouby Sven O , Faber Jens
Published: May 2017

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with frequent overweight and abdominal obesity. Quantifying visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in PCOS patients can be a tool to assess metabolic risk and monitor effects of treatment. The latest dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) technology can measure VAT and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in a clinical setting.

Purpose

To compare DXA-measurements of VAT and SAT with the gold standard MRI in women with PCOS.

Material and Methods

A cross-sectional study of 67 overweight women with PCOS was performed. Measurements of VAT and SAT were performed by DXA in a 5-cm thick transverse slice at the L4/L5 level and by MRI in a 1-cm thick transverse slice at the L3 level.

Results

Mean (SD) DXA-VAT was 81 (34) cm3, DXA-SAT was 498 (118) cm3, MRI-VAT was 117 (48) cm3, and MRI-SAT was 408 (122) cm3. MRI and DXA measures of VAT (r = 0.82, P < 0.001) and SAT (r = 0.92, P < 0.001) correlated closely, and DXA-VAT was stronger correlated with MRI-VAT than BMI (r = 0.62, P < 0.001) and waist circumference (r = 0.60, P < 0.001). DXA-VAT coefficient of variance was 6.7% and inter correlation coefficient was 0.98. Bland–Altman analyses showed DXA to slightly underestimate VAT and SAT measurements compared with MRI.

Conclusion

DXA and MRI measurements of VAT and SAT correlated closely despite different size of region of interest, and DXA-VAT was superior to waist circumference and BMI in estimating MRI-VAT. DXA showed high reproducibility making it is suitable for repeated measurements in the same individual over time.
Association of adipokines, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations with clinical characteristics and presence of spinal syndesmophytes in patients with ankylosing spondylitis: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gonzalez-Lopez Laura , Fajardo-Robledo Nicte S. , Miriam Saldaña-Cruz A. , Moreno-Sandoval Inocente V. , Bonilla-Lara David , Zavaleta-Muñiz Soraya , Nava-Zavala Arnulfo Hernan , Hernandez-Cuervo Paulina , Rocha-Muñoz Alberto , Rodriguez-Jimenez Norma Alejandra , Vazquez-Villegas Maria L , Muñoz-Valle J. Francisco , Salazar-Paramo Mario , Cardona-Muñoz Ernesto G , Gamez-Nava Jorge I
Published: May 2017

Objective

To identify correlations of the serum leptin, adiponectin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) concentrations with the clinical characteristics, presence of spinal syndesmophytes, and body composition in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods

Forty-eight patients with AS were compared with 41 sex- and age-matched controls. Assessment included clinical characteristics and the presence of spinal syndesmophytes. The serum leptin, adiponectin, TNF-α, and IL-6 concentrations were determined. Body composition was evaluated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Results

Patients with AS and controls had similar fat mass and lean mass. Patients with AS had higher serum TNF-α and leptin concentrations than controls (52.3 vs. 1.5 pg/mL and 17.2 vs. 9.0 µg/mL, respectively). The IL-6 and adiponectin concentrations were not significantly different between the two groups. Patients with syndesmophytes had higher leptin concentrations than those without syndesmophytes (22.1 vs. 10.9 µg/mL); this difference remained after adjustment for the body mass index.

Conclusion

Elevated leptin concentrations are associated with spinal radiographic damage in patients with AS and can serve as a biomarker. Future studies should evaluate whether leptin might be a potential target for treatments to avoid structural damage.
Plasma miR-145 as a novel biomarker for the diagnosis and radiosensitivity prediction of human cervical cancer
Authors: Wei Hu , Wen-Ming Chen , Jun-Bo Jiao
Published: May 2017

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate levels of plasma miR-145 in patients with cervical cancer (CC) and investigate its biomarker potential.

Methods

Using qRT-PCR, we compared plasma miR-145 levels in 120 patients with CC, 120 patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and 120 healthy volunteers. The association between plasma miR-145 expression and clinicopathological factors, including radiation response, was also analyzed.

Results

Plasma miR-145 levels were lower in CC patient than in CIN patients and healthy controls. Low levels were significantly associated with poor cancer differentiation, lymph node metastasis, HPV, and advanced FIGO stage. CC patients who achieved complete response to radiotherapy had higher plasma miR-145 levels than incomplete responders. ROC analysis confirmed that plasma miR-145 is a candidate biomarker for detecting CC and differentiating complete responders from incomplete responders.

Conclusions

Plasma miR-145 is reduced in CC and is a novel candidate biomarker for diagnosing CC and predicting radiosensitivity.
Pregnancy outcome of laparoscopic tubal reanastomosis: retrospective results from a single clinical centre
Authors: Karayalcin Rana , Ozcan Sarp , Tokmak Aytekin , Gürlek Beril , Yenicesu Okan , Timur Hakan
Published: May 2017

Objective

Tubal sterilization is a widespread method of contraception. Post-sterilization regret is encountered, despite careful consideration prior to the procedure. Two treatment options are available for women after having had tubal sterilization: microsurgical reversal and IVF treatment. Recent improvements in laparoscopy have allowed tubal reanastomosis to be performed. This study aimed to evaluate the reproductive outcome after laparoscopic tubal reanastomosis and surgical features of the patients.

Methods

From June 2007 to January 2010, 27 patients with bilateral tubal ligation who underwent laparoscopic tubal reanastomosis were evaluated retrospectively. Tubal sterilization was performed by Pomeroy’s technique during caesarean section in all of the patients. Before surgery, all of the patients were evaluated for possible other causes of infertility and the results of the evaluation were normal.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 31.8 years (range, 27–38 years). The mean interval between sterilization and reversal was 5.1 years (range, 1–14 years). Bilateral reversal was achieved in 24 patients. The operation time ranged from 85 to 140 minutes with a mean time of 105 minutes. All of the patients were discharged on the next day. There were no postoperative complications. Overall pregnancy, intrauterine pregnancy, and ectopic pregnancy rates were 55.5% (15/27), 51.8% (14/27), and 3.7% (1/27), respectively. Of the 14 intrauterine pregnancies, one ended with abortion at 6 weeks’ gestation (1/14). The mean interval from surgery to pregnancy was 270 days (range, 147–420 days).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic tubal reanastomosis has the advantages of fewer complications, less postoperative discomfort, a smaller incisional scar, a shorter recovery time, and earlier resumption of normal activities. This technique has a satisfactory pregnancy rate in selected patients who desire reversal of tubal sterilization.
Body Disposal: Spatial and Temporal Characteristics in Korean Homicide
Authors: Sea Jonghan , Beauregard Eric
Published: May 2017

This study explores the body disposal patterns in a sample of 54 Korean homicides that occurred between 2006 and 2012. Based on information collected by the police during their investigation, factors that could influence body disposal patterns were examined, such as homicide classification, intention, whether an accomplice was present, and offender mental disorder. Bivariate analyses showed that the majority of the victims who were disposed of were acquaintances of the offenders. Moreover, several offenders were more likely to dispose of the dead body “within hours” of killing the victim. Dead bodies were usually recovered in agricultural areas, forest/wooded areas, as well as residential areas. It was also noteworthy that, in 47 cases, the offender had knowledge of the geographic area where the body was dumped. In cases of “expressive” homicide, victims were more likely to be disposed of somewhere far away (e.g., over 40 km) from the crime scene, whereas “instrumental” homicide victims appeared to be disposed of somewhere closer (e.g., within 30 km) to the crime scene. Results are discussed in light of their practical implications for homicide investigations.
Financialisation in the green economy: Material connections, markets-in-the-making and Foucauldian organising actions
Authors: Asiyanbi Adeniyi P
Published: May 2017

This paper explores the connections between financialisation in the green economy and the material commodification processes that underpin this economy. It argues that these connections are important and can be usefully conceived in terms of spaces of mutuality. These spaces of mutuality direct attention to the material processes of value creation at the level of real environmental assets. That these material processes appear thin, sluggish, fractured, hybridised or stalled in practice invites new modes of analytical engagement. One important mode of analysing these emergent green projects is to emphasise their status as durable processes of becoming or what could be called markets-in-the-making, by going beyond forms of market and economic reductionism. Michel Foucault's analysis of neoliberalism and his idea of ‘organising actions’ prove useful in this regard. Foucauldian organising actions render markets-in-the-making projects visible as durable governmental apparatuses made of disparate elements that are geographically specific, historically contingent and are aligned with an overarching market telos. Drawing on an empirical case of Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation plus carbon stock enhancement and sustainable forest management (REDD+) in Nigeria’s Cross River, the paper analyses organising actions along four meta-processes – problematisations, visions, implementation and stabilisation. It concludes by highlighting the wider implications for work on environmental financialisation.
MDSCs are involved in the protumorigenic potentials of GM-CSF in colitis-associated cancer
Authors: Ma Ning , Liu Qilin , Hou Lin , Wang Yalin , Liu Ziling
Published: May 2017

Chronic inflammation is thought to be a major driving force for the development of colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). As one member of proinflammatory cytokine family, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) has been identified to play a key role in CAC pathogenesis recently. The underlying mechanisms, however, remain largely unknown. In this study, we found that myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) accumulated increasingly in the lesions during the progression from colitis to cancer, which was critical for CAC formation. Importantly, this MDSC accumulation was controlled by GM-CSF. MDSC number decreased significantly in GM-CSF-deficient mice suffering from CAC induction, and transfusion of MDSCs from wild-type CAC-bearing mice into GM-CSF-deficient counterparts led to recurrence of CAC. Furthermore, the supernatants of CAC lesions or GM-CSF alone was sufficient to differentiate hematopoietic precursors into MDSCs. Addition of neutralizing anti-GM-CSF antibody impaired the MDSC-differentiating effects of the supernatants of CAC lesions. Overall, these findings shed new insights into the mechanisms of GM-CSF underlying CAC development, by inducing/recruiting CAC-promoting MDSCs. Blocking GM-CSF activity or MDSC function may represent new therapeutic strategies for CAC in clinic.
Association Between Nutrition Status and Survival in Elderly Patients With Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Barao Katia , Abe Vicente Cavagnari Mariana , Silva Fucuta Patricia , Manoukian Forones Nora
Published: May 2017

Background: Aging patients with cancer have a higher risk of mortality and treatment‐associated morbidity than younger patients. Nutrition status may play an important role in cancer mortality. We aimed to evaluate the survival time of elderly patients with colorectal cancer and its association with body mass index (BMI), the patient‐generated subjective global assessment (PG‐SGA), and phase angle (PA). Materials and Methods: BMI, PG‐SGA, and PA were determined for all patients (n = 250) at first assessment. Results: Seventy‐one (28.4%) patients were in active oncologic treatment (group 1) and 179 (71.6%) were in remission (group 2). At the time of the analysis, 73 (29.2%) patients had died and 177 (70.8%) were censored. The mean (standard deviation) age was 70.9 (7.49) years; 17.2% were undernourished, 56% normal weight, and 26.8% were overweight. According to the PG‐SGA, 35.2% of patients needed some nutrition intervention and 4.4% needed it urgently. The mean PA was 4.94 ± 1°. PG‐SGA, tumor stage, and PA differed significantly (P < .001) between the groups; BMI did not (P = .459). Severe malnutrition (PG‐SGA C), compared with PG‐SGA A, was associated with a relative hazard of death of 12.04 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.43–42.19, P < .001). PA >5° was associated with better prognosis: a relative hazard of 0.456 (95% CI, 0.263–0.792; P < .005). Conclusion: Among elderly patients with colorectal cancer, PA and PG‐SGA were prognosis factors. PA >5° was associated with best survival and PG‐SGA C with worst survival.
Engineered polymeric amphiphiles self-assembling into nanostructures and acting as efficient gene and drug carriers
Authors: Bansal Ruby , Kumar Pradeep
Published: May 2017

Nonviral gene delivery systems are finding widespread use due to their safety, rapid and economical production, and ease of modification. In this work, series of N-alkyl-substituted linear polyethylenimine (CP) polymers have been synthesized, characterized, and investigated about how degree of substitution (hydrophobic–hydrophilic balance) (i.e. N-alkylation) influenced the transfection efficiency. Mobility shift assay demonstrated efficient binding of plasmid DNA (pDNA). Transfection efficiency and cytotoxicity of CP polymers were assessed in vitro, which revealed that all the formulations exhibited higher transfection activity than linear polyethylenimine (lPEI) and commercial transfection reagents, Lipofectamine and Superfect, with negligible toxicity (MTT assay). In the projected series, one of the formulations, CP-3-pDNA complex, displayed the highest transfection efficiency (∼1.6–12 folds vs. lPEI and commercial transfection reagents) and effectively carried GFP-specific siRNA inside the cells as monitored by measuring the suppression in the gene expression of the target gene. Further, flow cytometry experiments confirmed that CP-3-pDNA complex transfected the highest number of cells. Besides, CP-3 was also evaluated in terms of its capability to entrap hydrophobic drug molecules. The results showed that it efficiently encapsulated an anti-cancer drug, etoposide, and released it in a controlled fashion over a period of time. Altogether, the data support that CP-3 is a promising vector for nucleic acid as well as hydrophobic drug delivery.