bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concussion Recovery Phase Affects Vestibular and Oculomotor Symptom Provocation
Authors: Cheever Kelly , McDevitt Jane , Tierney Ryan , Wright W.
Published: November 2017

Vestibular and oculomotor testing is emerging as a valuable assessment in sport-related concussion (SRC). However, their usefulness for tracking recovery and guiding return-to-play decisions remains unclear. Therefore the purpose of this study was to evaluate their clinical usefulness for tracking SRC recovery. Vestibular and oculomotor assessments were used to measure symptom provocation in an acute group (n=21) concussed≤10 days, prolonged symptoms group (n=10) concussed ≥16 days (median=84 days), healthy group (n=58) no concussions in >6 months. Known-groups approach was used with three groups at three time points (initial, 2-week and 6-week follow-up). Provoked symptoms for Gaze-Stabilization (GST), Rapid Eye Horizontal (REH), Optokinetic Stimulation (OKS), Smooth-Pursuit Slow (SPS) and Fast (SPF) tests, total combined symptoms scores and near point convergence (NPC) distance were significantly greater at initial assessment in both injury groups compared to controls. Injury groups improved on the King-Devick test and combined symptom provocation scores across time. The acute group improved over time on REH and SPF tests, while the prolonged symptoms group improved on OKS. A regression model (REH, OKS, GST) was 90% accurate discriminating concussed from healthy. Vestibular and ocular motor tests give valuable insight during recovery. They can prove beneficial in concussion evaluation given the modest equipment, training and time requirements. The current study demonstrates that when combined, vestibular and oculomotor clinical tests aid in the detection of deficits following a SRC. Additionally, tests such as NPC, GST, REH, SPS, SPF OKS and KD provide valuable information to clinicians throughout the recovery process and may aid in return to play decisions.
Evaluation of Paclitaxel Nanocrystals In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Li Wanqing , Li Zhiguo , Wei Lisha , Zheng Aiping
Published: November 2017

We created a novel paclitaxel (PTX) nanoparticle drug delivery system and compared this to acommercial injection preparation to evaluate the antitumor effects for both formulations in vivo and in vitro.PTXnanocrystals were 194.9 nm with potential of −29.6 mV. Cytotoxicity tests indicated that both formulations had similar effects and cytotoxicity was dose- and time-dependent.Pharmacodynamics indicated that the drug concentration at the tumor was greater with PTX nanocrystals compared to commercial injection (P<0.01) and that drug accumulated more and for a longer duration. In vivo antitumor evaluation indicated significant antitumor effects and low toxicity of PTX nanocrystals. Moreover, bioimaging indicated that the PTX retention time in MCF-7-bearing mice was longer, especially at the tumor site, and this high drug concentration was maintained for a long time.Overall, PTX nanocrystalsare feasible and superior to traditional injection formulation chemotherapy.
Laserhämorrhoidoplastie mit dem 1470-nm-Diodenlaser in der Behandlung des zweit- bis viertgradigen Hämorrhoidalleidens – eine Kohortenstudie mit 497 Fällen
Authors: Weyand Guido , Theis Claudia Susanne , Fofana Aboubacar Nzambi , Rüdiger Felix , Gehrke Thomas
Published: November 2017

Fragestellung Die Laserhämorrhoidoplastie (LHP) mit dem 1470-nm-Diodenlaser im minimalinvasiven Konzept bei fortgeschrittenem Hämorrhoidalleiden wurde unter dem Aspekt der klinischen Variablen wie Schmerzentwicklung und Komplikationen zu intraoperativen Kennzeichen wie Mukopexie, Anzahl behandelter Knoten und verwandte Energie pro Patient. Ferner wurden Patientenzufriedenheit, Symptomrelevanz und Aspekte der Wirtschaftlichkeit untersucht.

Patienten und Methoden Von November 2010 bis November 2016 wurden 497 Patienten (Alter 55 ± 14 Jahre) im Zentrum für minimalinvasive Proktologie des Kreisklinikums Siegen einer Laserhämorrhoidoplastie mit einem 1470-nm-Diodenlaser unterzogen. Alle operierten Patienten wurden in die Studie aufgenommen. Die perioperativen klinischen und technischen Daten bis 6 Wochen sowie die Nachuntersuchungsdaten nach 6 Monaten wurden prospektiv analysiert.

Ergebnisse Die durchschnittliche Operationsdauer lag bei 14 Minuten (± 5,2). Pro Patient wurden durchschnittlich 2,7 Knoten der Stärke 2,7 behandelt. Die Schmerzentwicklung lag postoperativ im Durchschnitt bei 2,5/10 (VAS), die langfristige Symptomrelevanz bei 86%, die Patientenzufriedenheit bei 91%, Komplikationen traten bei 49 Patienten (9,9%) auf: Blutung 1,8%, Infektion 1%, Harnverhalt 1,8%, Ödem/Thrombose/Prolaps 6,6%). Rezidive innerhalb von 6 Monaten traten in 8,8% der Fälle auf. Signifikante Unterschiede kamen in der Schmerzentwicklung am Operationstag und den Parametern Mukopexie, 3 behandelte Segmente sowie Energielevel > 500 J (p < 0,05) vor. Komplikationen traten häufiger bei Durchführung von Mukopexien, bei 3 behandelten Knoten sowie der verwandten Energie pro Patient > 500 J auf. Nur bei der Energiemenge > 500 J ergab sich ein signifikanter Unterschied (p < 0,05).

Schlussfolgerung Die LHP ist eine sichere, schmerzarme und minimalinvasive Operationsmethode mit langfristig hoher Patientenakzeptanz und -zufriedenheit und als Routinemaßnahme geeignet. Die applizierte Energiemenge sollte auf ein Minimum reduziert werden. Komplikationsraten sind weitgehend mit denen anderer minimalinvasiver und konventioneller Methoden vergleichbar. Weitere prospektive Studien, insbesondere im Vergleich zur ergebnisfunktionell vergleichbaren Methode nach Parks sind notwendig. Die LHP ist beim zirkulär-konfluierenden Befund kein Ersatz für die Stapler-Hämorrhoidopexie.
Exercise Prescription Using the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion to Improve Fitness
Authors: Garnacho-Castaño Manuel , Domínguez Raúl , Muñoz González Arturo , Feliu-Ruano Raquel , Serra-Payá Noemí , Maté-Muñoz José
Published: November 2017

The present study aimed to compare two fitness-training methodologies, instability circuit resistance training (ICRT) versus traditional circuit resistance training (TCRT), applying an experimental model of exercise prescription controlling and modulating exercise load using the Borg rating of perceived exertion. Forty-four healthy young adults age (21.6±2.3 years) were randomly assigned to three groups: TCRT (n=14), ICRT (n=14) and a control group (n=16). Strength and cardiorespiratory tests were chosen to evaluate cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness before and after the training program. In cardiorespiratory data, a significant difference was observed for the time effect in VO2max, peak heart rate, peak velocity, and heart rate at anaerobic threshold intensity (p<0.05) in the experimental groups. In strength variables, a significant Group x Time interaction effect was detected in 1RM, in mean propulsive power, and in peak power (p≤0.01) in the back squat exercise. In the bench press exercise, a significant time effect was detected in 1RM, in mean propulsive power, and in peak power, and a Group x Time interaction in peak power (all p<0.05). We can conclude that applying an experimental model of exercise prescription using RPE improved cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness in healthy young adults in both experimental groups.
Einfluss der Mikrofonposition auf die akustische Lokalisation bei Cochlea-Implantat-Nutzern
Authors: Bandeira Mariana , Baumann Uwe , Weißgerber Tobias
Published: November 2017

Hintergund Je nach Position der Mikrofone von Hörhilfen werden die für die Schalllokalisation wichtigen richtungsbestimmenden Merkmale
eines Schallereignisses unterschiedlich gut übertragen. Ziel dieser Arbeit war die messtechnische Evaluation verschiedener
Mikrofonpositionen hinsichtlich der Übertragung von interauralen Zeit- und Pegeldifferenzen sowie der spektralen richtungsabhängigen
Merkmale und deren Einfluss auf die Genauigkeit der akustischen Lokalisation.

Methoden Es wurden von 30 Personen kopfbezogene Übertragungsfunktionen mit drei verschiedenen omnidirektionalen Mikrofonen gemessen,
die unterschiedlich positioniert waren: in der Ohrmuschel (IdO), hinter dem Ohr (HdO), am Eingang des äußeren Gehörgangs (EdG). Weiterhin
wurde bei 12 bilateralen Cochlea-Implantat-Nutzern die Lokalisationsleistung bei zwei Mikrofonpositionen bestimmt.

Ergebnisse Nur die Mikrofonpositionen innerhalb der Ohrmuschel (IdO, EdG) konnten die spektralen Filtereffekte der Pinna aufzeichnen.
Ungeachtet der besseren Abtastung der Pinnafunktion führte die Mikrofonposition IdO bei CI-Nutzern nicht zu einer besseren
Lokalisationsleistung gegenüber HdO-Mikrofonen. Bei rückwärtiger Schalldarbietungen ergaben sich jedoch signifikant weniger Vertauschungen
mit der frontalen Einfallsrichtung.

Schlussfolgerung Die Mikrofonposition im Ohr zeigte bei CI-Nutzern nur eine geringfügige Verbesserung der akustischen Lokalisation
gegenüber den gewohnten HdO-Mikrofonen. Als Grundvoraussetzung zur Verbesserung der Lokalisationsleistung erscheint eine verbesserte
Übertragung der zeitlichen und spektralen Feinstruktur in CI-Systemen erforderlich.
Optical anisotropy of InGaAs quantum dot arrays aligned along multiatomic steps on vicinal GaAs(111)B
Authors: Kawazu Takuya
Published: November 2017

The optical anisotropy of InGaAs quantum dot (QD) arrays on vicinal GaAs(111)B is investigated, in which the QDs are aligned and their shape is elongated along the [-110] direction. Polarised photoluminescence (PL) studies showed that the PL is preferentially polarized in the [-110] direction, where the polarization degree ρ is about 16.9%. Electronic states in InGaAs QD arrays are also examined theoretically to clarify how the optical anisotropy is affected by (1) the adjacent QDs, (2) the multiatomic steps on the substrate surface, and (3) the strain including the piezoelectric effect. By assuming the QD shape as a semi-elliptic cylindrical form, we calculate the electron and hole wave functions and evaluate the polarization degree ρ. We find that each of the three factors only slightly affects the optical anisotropy; the adjacent QDs, the multiatomic steps, and the strain increase the polarization degree ρ by 0.5, 2.3, and 1%, respectively. In contrast, the polarization degree ρ drastically increases by 8.9%, when all the three factors are simultaneously taken into account. We also compare the calculated results to the experimental data and show that all the effects of the three factors are important to explain the optical anisotropy of the InGaAs QD arrays.
Carrier lifetime variation in thick 4H-SiC epilayers using two-photon absorption
Authors: Mahadik Nadeemullah A. , Stahlbush Robert E. , Klein Paul B. , Khachatrian Ani , Buchner Stephen , Block Steven G.
Published: November 2017

Carrier lifetime control in thick silicon carbide (SiC) epilayers is essential for fabricating >10 kV devices. Lifetime depth profiles were investigated in n-type and p-type SiC epilayers using photoluminescence (PL) decay excited by two-photon absorption (TPA), using 586 nm laser pulses. TPA limits the excitation to a small volume, and the observed PL decays exhibit nonexponential behavior resulting from the three-dimensional carrier diffusion occurring during the decay. The results were analyzed using a formalism that includes the effects of carrier lifetime, carrier diffusion, and surface recombination on the PL decay. The lifetime depth profiles exhibited a nonuniform lifetime-degrading defect concentration within the epilayers.
Atomistic modelling and high resolution electron microscopy simulations of CeO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Blanco-Portals J. , Berestok T. , Torruella P. , Coll C. , López-Conesa L. , Guardia P. , Coy L. E. , Cabot A. , Estradé S. , Peiró F.
Published: November 2017

In cerium oxide nanoparticles, the facets exposed control their reactivity and catalytic behavior and hence their performance in applications such as three-way catalysis, gas sensors, or solid fuel cells. Thus, the precise characterization of the cerium oxide facets exposed is crucial. In the present work, the geometry of branched cerium oxide nanoparticles, obtained by means of ligand-controlled overgrowth, is determined through the comparison between High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) experimental and simulated images. Two possible 3D structures, corresponding to octapod and tetrapod geometries, were suggested from a preliminary examination of the experimental HRTEM images. A comparative analysis of the gray scale intensity profiles of the simulated and experimental HRTEM images was then performed. This method proved capable of discriminating between the two proposed geometries, showing CeO2 nanoparticles to have an octapod geometry. The obtained results were further confirmed by comparing High Angular Dark Field experimental and simulated images of the nanoparticles. This method can be suitable whenever 3D-Tomographic reconstruction is not feasible in the TEM, for instance, in the case of highly beam sensitive materials.
Eph-ephrin signaling modulated by polymerization and condensation of receptors
Authors: Ojosnegros Samuel , Cutrale Francesco , Rodríguez Daniel , Otterstrom Jason J. , Chiu Chi Li , Hortigüela Verónica , Tarantino Carolina , Seriola Anna , Mieruszynski Stephen , Martínez Elena , Lakadamyali Melike , Raya Angel , Fraser Scott E.
Published: November 2017

Significance

Cell communication is a precisely orchestrated mechanism in which cell receptors translate extracellular cues into intracellular signals. The Eph receptors act as a model guidance system steering cells to defined positions by their ligand ephrin. However, we still lack a mechanistic understanding of how membrane receptors can read a wide range of ligand concentrations and gradients and integrate them into coherent cellular responses. Here we reveal the evolution of Eph aggregation upon ephrin stimulation with unprecedented resolution by extending current imaging methods. The results fit biophysical models of protein aggregation. In these models, two protein oligomerization modes, polymerization and condensation, correlate with the “on/off” switching of the receptor activation, providing a precise, proportional, and dynamic response to variable ephrin inputs.
The impact of ‘super-participants’ on everyday political talk
Authors: Wright Scott
Published: November 2017

This article analyses the impact of “super-participants” – people who create lots of content, set the agenda, or moderate debates – on everyday online political talk in a non-political online discussion forum – or “third space”. The article finds that there was extensive evidence of super-participation in the forum, and that they did impact the nature of political talk.
Prevalence and Phenotype of Sleep Disorders in 60 Adults With Prader–Willi Syndrome
Authors: Ghergan Adelina , Coupaye Muriel , Leu-Semenescu Smaranda , Attali Valérie , Oppert Jean-Michel , Arnulf Isabelle , Poitou Christine , Redolfi Stefania
Published: November 2017

Study Objectives

Excessive sleepiness is a common symptom in Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS), and it negatively impacts the quality of life. Obstructive sleep apnea and narcolepsy phenotypes have been reported in PWS. We characterized sleep disorders in a large cohort of adults with PWS.

Methods

All consecutive patients with genetically confirmed PWS unselected for sleep-related symptoms, underwent a clinical interview, polysomnography, and multiple sleep latency tests (MSLT, n = 60), followed by long-term (24 hours) polysomnography (n = 22/60).

Results

Among 60 adults evaluated (57% female, aged 25 ± 10 years, body mass index: 39 ± 12 kg/m2), 67% reported excessive sleepiness. According to the sleep study results, 43% had a previously unrecognized hypersomnia disorder, 15% had an isolated sleep breathing disorder, 12% had combined hypersomnia disorder and untreated breathing sleep disorder, and only 30% had normal sleep. Isolated hypersomnia disorder included narcolepsy in 35% (type 1, n = 1, and type 2, n = 8), hypersomnia in 12% (total sleep time >11 hours, n = 2, and MSLT <8 minutes, n = 1), and borderline phenotype in 53% (≥2 sleep onset in REM periods and MSLT >8 minutes, n = 10, and 8 minutes < MSLT < 10 minutes, n = 4). Sleep breathing disorders, isolated and combined, included obstructive sleep apnea (n = 14, already treated in seven), sleep hypoxemia (n = 1) and previously undiagnosed hypoventilation (n = 5). Modafinil was taken by 16 patients (well tolerated in 10), resulting in improved sleepiness over a mean 5-year follow-up period.

Conclusion

Sleepiness affects more than half of adult patients with PWS, with a variety of hypersomnia disorder (narcolepsy, hypersomnia, and borderline phenotypes) and breathing sleep disorders. Earlier diagnosis and management of sleep disorders may improve sleepiness, cognition, and behavior in these patients.
Insight Into Reduction of Wakefulness by Suvorexant in Patients With Insomnia: Analysis of Wake Bouts
Authors: Svetnik Vladimir , Snyder Ellen S , Tao Peining , Scammell Thomas E , Roth Thomas , Lines Christopher , Herring W Joseph
Published: November 2017

Study Objectives

To examine the duration and frequency of wake bouts underlying the wakefulness-after-sleep-onset (WASO) reduction with suvorexant.

Methods

We analyzed polysomnogram recordings from clinical trials involving 1518 insomnia patients receiving suvorexant (40/30, 20/15 mg) or placebo to determine the following: (1) the number of, and time spent in, long or short wake bouts and (2) the association between sleep quality and bout characteristics. We also compared wake and sleep bout characteristics of suvorexant in insomnia patients versus zolpidem in healthy subjects undergoing experimentally induced transient insomnia.

Results

Relative to placebo, suvorexant decreased the number and time spent in long wake bouts (>2 minutes) and increased the number and time spent in short wake bouts (≤2 minutes). The time spent in long wake bouts during Night-1 decreased by 32–54 minutes, whereas the time spent in short wake bouts increased by 2–6 minutes. On average, a patient returned to sleep from his or her longest awakening more than twice as fast on suvorexant than placebo. The reduced time spent in long wake bouts resulted in odds ratios of self-reported good or excellent sleep quality ranging from 1.59 to 2.19 versus placebo. The small increase in time spent in short wake bouts had no effect on odds ratios. Findings were more pronounced for the higher (40/30 mg) doses of suvorexant. The wake and sleep bout characteristics of suvorexant differed from zolpidem which equally decreased the number of wake and sleep bouts of all durations during the early part of the night.

Conclusion

Suvorexant reduces WASO by reducing long wake bouts. This reduction has a positive effect on sleep quality.

Clinical Trials

Trial registration at www.clinicaltrials.gov NCT01097616; NCT01097629.
A Fungus-Inducible Pepper Carboxylesterase Exhibits Antifungal Activity by Decomposing the Outer Layer of Fungal Cell Walls
Authors: Seo Hyo-Hyoun , Park Ae Ran , Lee Hyun-Hwa , Park Sangkyu , Han Yun-Jeong , Hoang Quyen T. N. , Choi Gyung Ja , Kim Jin-Cheol , Kim Young Soon , Kim Jeong-Il
Published: November 2017

Colletotrichum species are major fungal pathogens that cause devastating anthracnose diseases in many economically important crops. In this study, we observed the hydrolyzing activity of a fungus-inducible pepper carboxylesterase (PepEST) on cell walls of C. gloeosporioides, causing growth retardation of the fungus by blocking appressorium formation. To determine the cellular basis for the growth inhibition, we observed the localization of PepEST on the fungus and found the attachment of the protein on surfaces of conidia and germination tubes. Moreover, we examined the decomposition of cell-wall materials from the fungal surface after reaction with PepEST, which led to the identification of 1,2-dithiane-4,5-diol (DTD) by gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis. Exogenous DTD treatment did not elicit expression of defense-related genes in the host plant but did trigger the necrosis of C. gloeosporioides. Furthermore, the DTD compound displayed protective effects on pepper fruits and plants against C. gloeosporioides and C. coccodes, respectively. In addition, DTD was also effective in preventing other diseases, such as rice blast, tomato late blight, and wheat leaf rust. Therefore, our results provide evidence that PepEST is involved in hydrolysis of the outmost layer of the fungal cell walls and that DTD has antifungal activity, suggesting an alternative strategy to control agronomically important phytopathogens.
Epigenetics of inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Hammaker Deepa , Firestein Gary S.
Published: November 2017

Purpose of review

Aberrant epigenetic changes in DNA methylation, histone marks, and noncoding RNA expression regulate the pathogenesis of many rheumatic diseases. The present article will review the recent advances in the epigenetic profile of inflammatory arthritis and discuss diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets.

Recent findings

Methylation signatures of fibroblast-like synoviocytes not only distinguish rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA), but also early RA from late RA or juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Methylation patterns are also specific to individual joint locations, which might explain the distribution of joint involvement in some rheumatic diseases. Hypomethylation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) T cells is, in part, because of active demethylation and 5-hydroxymethylation. The methylation status of some genes in SLE is associated with disease severity and has potential as a diagnostic marker. An integrative analysis of OA methylome, transcriptome, and proteome in chondrocytes has identified multiple-evidence genes that might be evaluated for therapeutic potential. Class-specific histone deacetylase inhibitors are being evaluated for therapy in inflammatory arthritis.

Disease pathogenesis is regulated by the interplay of genetics, environment, and epigenetics. Understanding how these mechanisms regulate cell function in health and disease has implications for individualized therapy.
Cutaneous angiosarcoma: update on biology and latest treatment
Authors: Ishida Yoshihiro , Otsuka Atsushi , Kabashima Kenji
Published: November 2017

Purpose of review

The present review aims to provide readers with the latest updates on the biology and clinical management of cutaneous angiosarcoma (cAS).

Recent findings

The genomic alteration of cAS is heterogeneous. Mutations are enriched in the mitosis-activated kinase (MAPK) pathway. Functional analysis has identified molecules that may serve as potential markers and therapeutic targets of angiosarcoma. These molecules include survivin, HSP90, FOXM1, miR-497-5p, KCa3.1, and miR210.

This body of knowledge has not yet transferred to clinical practice. The mainstay of treatment for cAS remains surgery followed by postoperative radiotherapy. The efficacy of paclitaxel as an adjuvant chemotherapy is suggested.

For patients with advanced cAS, paclitaxel is the treatment of choice. There are also second-line treatment options that are supported by evidence of varying strength. A multikinase inhibitor, pazopanib, has been assessed in several studies, most of which support its efficacy for angiosarcoma. Bevacizumab monotherapy may be effective for angiosarcoma. The efficacy of eribulin mesylate and trabectedin for angiosarcoma is currently being assessed. Recent publications highlighted the role of the immune system in the biology of cAS.

Future research efforts should focus on the following aspects of cAS: drug development directed at recent molecular targets, clinical trials designed specifically for patients with cAS, and the role of immunotherapy for cAS.
Improving the Accuracy of Delirium Assessments in Neuroscience Patients
Authors: DiLibero Justin , DeSanto-Madeya Susan , Dottery Rachael , Sullivan Lauren , O’Donoghue Sharon C.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Delirium affects up to 80% of critically ill patients; however, many cases of delirium go unrecognized because of inaccurate assessments. The effectiveness of interventions to improve assessment accuracy among the general population has been established, but assessments among neuroscience patients are uniquely complicated due to the presence of structural neurologic changes.

Objectives:

The purposes of this quality improvement project were to improve the accuracy of nurse’s delirium assessments among neuroscience patients and to determine the comparative effectiveness of the intervention between medical and neuroscience patients.

Methods:

A multifaceted nurse-led intervention was implemented, and a retrospective analysis of preintervention and postintervention data on assessment accuracy was completed. Results were stratified by population, level of sedation, and level of care. Differences were analyzed using Fisher exact test.

Results:

Data from 1052 delirium assessments were analyzed and demonstrated improvement in assessment accuracy from 56.82% to 95.07% among all patients and from 29.79% to 92.98% among sedate or agitated patients. Although baseline accuracy was significantly lower among neuroscience patients versus medical intensive care unit patients, no significant differences in postintervention accuracy were noted between groups.

Conclusion:

Results from this project demonstrate the effectiveness of the nurse-led intervention among neuroscience patients. Future research is needed to explore the effectiveness of this nurse-led intervention across other institutions and to describe the effectiveness of new interventions to improve outcomes at the patient and organizational levels.
Advances in targeting HER2-positive breast cancer
Authors: Harbeck Nadia
Published: November 2017

Purpose of review

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women and HER2-positive disease comprises about 15% of all breast cancer cases. Over the last few years, substantial advances have been made in treatment of early breast cancer (EBC) and advanced (ABC) HER2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer. The present review summarizes the major publications on HER2+ breast cancer in the year 2017 and discusses their clinical relevance.

Recent findings

The clinically most relevant data in 2017 relates to the EBC setting. The St. Gallen Consensus 2017 for the first time recommended neoadjuvant treatment as standard of care in HER2+ EBC. Moreover, the APHINITY trial demonstrated efficacy of adjuvant dual antibody-based HER2 blockade. Data in MBC mostly confirmed established treatment strategies.

Clinical data presented in 2017 for HER2+ breast cancer confirmed current guidelines and extended treatment options for patients. First intriguing steps were made towards de-escalation in the EBC setting.
Breath Volatile Organic Compound Profiling of Colorectal Cancer Using Selected Ion Flow-tube Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Markar Sheraz R. , Chin Sung-Tong , Romano Andrea , Wiggins Tom , Antonowicz Stefan , Paraskeva Paraskevas , Ziprin Paul , Darzi Ara , Hanna George B.
Published: November 2017

Objective:

Background:

Breath VOCs have the potential to noninvasively diagnose cancer.

Methods:

Exhaled breath samples were collected using 2-L double-layered Nalophan bags, and were analyzed using selected-ion-flow-tube mass-spectrometry. Gold-standard test for comparison was endoscopy for luminal inspection and computed tomography (CT) to confirm cancer recurrence. Three studies were conducted:

Results:

Conclusion:

This study suggests the association of a single breath biomarker with the primary presence and recurrence of CRCa. Further multicenter validation studies are required to validate these findings.
Neutrophil adhesion in brain capillaries contributes to cortical blood flow decreases and impaired memory function in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Cruz Hernández Jean C. , Bracko Oliver , Kersbergen Calvin J. , Muse Victorine , Haft-Javaherian Mohammad , Berg Maxime , Park Laibaik , Vinarcsik Lindsay K. , Ivasyk Iryna , Kang Yiming , Cortes-Canteli Marta , Peyrounette Myriam , Doyeux Vincent , Smith Amy , Zhou Joan , Otte Gabriel , Beverly Jeffrey D. , Davenport Elizabeth , Davit Yohan , Strickland Sidney , Iadecola Costantino , Lorthois Sylvie , Nishimura Nozomi , Schaffer Chris B.
Published: November 2017

The existence of cerebral blood flow (CBF) reductions in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients and related mouse models has been known for decades, but the underlying mechanisms and the resulting impacts on cognitive function and AD pathogenesis remain poorly understood. In the APP/PS1 mouse model of AD we found that an increased number of cortical capillaries had stalled blood flow as compared to wildtype animals, largely due to leukocytes that adhered in capillary segments and blocked blood flow. These capillary stalls were an early feature of disease development, appearing before amyloid deposits. Administration of antibodies against the neutrophil marker Ly6G reduced the number of stalled capillaries, leading to an immediate increase in CBF and to rapidly improved performance in spatial and working memory tasks. Our work has thus identified a cellular mechanism that explains the majority of the CBF reduction seen in a mouse model of AD and has also demonstrated that improving CBF rapidly improved short-term memory function. Restoring cerebral perfusion by preventing the leukocyte adhesion that plugs capillaries may provide a novel strategy for improving cognition in AD patients.
Atomic structures of ternary Yb–Cd–Mg icosahedral quasicrystals and a 1/1 approximant
Authors: Yamada Tsunetomo , Takakura Hiroyuki , de Boissieu Marc , Tsai An-Pang
Published: November 2017

Atomic structures of ternary icosahedral (i) Yb–Cd–Mg quasicrystals (QCs) with five different Mg contents up to 46.4 at.% and a corresponding 1/1 approximant (AP), which has a composition of Yb13.3Cd70.3Mg16.5, have been analysed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The structures of the iQCs were found to be isostructural to the parent i-YbCd5.7, which consists of a so-called Tsai-type rhombic triacontahedron (RTH) cluster and double Friauf polyhedron, and that of the 1/1 AP was found to be isostructural to YbCd6, which is described by a body-centred packing of the same type of RTH cluster. In the iQCs, it was found that there are three types of Cd/Mg occupation, namely, Cd preferential site, Mg preferential site and Cd/Mg mixed site, and the occupation probabilities of Mg atoms at the Mg preferential site show a saturation behaviour around the Mg content of 20 at.%. This selective Mg occupation is identified as a cause of the non-linear increase in the icosahedral lattice constant with increasing Mg content. The 1/1 AP has a similar selective Mg occupation to that of the iQCs in terms of the shell structures of the Tsai-type RTH cluster. In both iQCs and the 1/1 AP, the Mg preferential sites have a smaller number of Yb atoms among their coordination numbers. Moreover, short-range order (s.r.o.) diffuse scattering was observed on the diffraction patterns of the iQCs at the positions corresponding to a face-centred-type (F-type) icosahedral superlattice. The F-type s.r.o. was found to result from the Mg substitution.
Crystal structure ofcatena-poly[[[tetraaquairon(II)]-trans-μ-1,2-bis(pyridin-4-yl)ethene-κ2N:N′] bis(p-toluenesulfonate) methanol disolvate]
Authors: Hiiuk Volodymyr M. , Barakhty Diana D. , Shova Sergiu , Polunin Ruslan A. , Gural'skiy Il'ya A.
Published: November 2017

In the title polymeric complex, {[Fe(C12H10N2)2(H2O)4](CH3C6H4SO3)2·2CH3OH}n, the FeIIcation, located on an inversion centre, is coordinated by four water molecules in the equatorial positions and two 1,2-bis(pyridin-4-yl)ethene molecules in the axial positions. This results in a distorted octahedral geometry for the [N2O4] coordination polyhedron. The 1,2-bis(pyridin-4-yl)ethene molecules bridge the FeIIcations, forming polymeric chains running along thea-axis direction. Stabilization of the crystal structure is provided by O—H...O hydrogen bonds; these are formed by coordinated water molecules as donors towards the O atoms of the methanol molecules and tosylate anions as acceptors of protons, leading to the formation of a three-dimensional supramolecular network. Weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds are also observed in the crystal.
Evaluation of body heating protocols with graphene heated clothing in a cold environment
Authors: Shin Sora , Choi Hae-Hyun , Kim Yung Bin , Hong Byung-Hee , Lee Joo-Young
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effects of intermittent and continuous heating protocols using graphene-heated clothing and identify more effective body region for heating in a cold environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight males participated in five experimental conditions at an air temperature of 0.6°C with 40 percent relative humidity: no heating, continuous heating the chest, continuous heating the back, intermittent heating the chest, and intermittent heating the back.

Findings

The results showed that the electric power consumption of the intermittent heating protocol (2.49 W) was conserved by 71 percent compared to the continuous protocol (8.58 W). Rectal temperature, cardiovascular and respiratory responses showed no significant differences among the four heating conditions, while heating the back showed more beneficial effects on skin temperatures than heating the chest.

Originality/value

First of all, this study was the first report to evaluate cold protective clothing with graphene heaters. Second, the authors provided effective intermittent heating protocols in terms of reducing power consumption, which was able to be evaluated with the characteristics of fast-responsive graphene heaters. Third, an intermittent heating protocol on the back was recommended to keep a balance between saving electric power and minimizing thermal discomfort in cold environments.
Developing internal organization development consultants
Authors: Dyer Larry M. , Preston Joanne C.
Published: November 2017

This research project was designed to address the current void in the literature regarding developing organizational development skills and knowledge in internal personnel representing unions, management and support staff, who are undereducated and inexperienced in organization development (OD). The venue was a copper smelting and refining complex, which was implementing a socio-technical redesign and required support in the transition to the new design. The project describes the OD skills and knowledge required; the nominal level required of these skills; the training methodology employed to build skills to the nominal level, referred to as “Consulting University”; ananalysis of the effectiveness of the training intervention; and key learnings.
Research on color 3D printing based on color adherence
Authors: Yang Minhua , Lv Xin-guang , Liu Xiao-jie , Zhang Jia-qing
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to present a method of color three-dimensional (3D) printing based on color adherence.

Design/methodology/approach

First, experiments of the color effects of 3D printings using different carriers and different printing methods were performed. Second, the color of a specific point could be calculated through a theory of dimension-reducing, and the color distribution of 3D model was transformed from 3D to 1D color line corresponding with 3D print sequence. At last, the color lines, which were printed on a PE film by silk-screen printing, was carried by a filament and then printed through a fused deposition modeling 3D printer.

Findings

The printing ink and PE film are suitable as the pigment and carrier under this investigation, respectively. Based on an idea of reducing dimension, the method of 3D color printing through adhering color to a filament is realized. The color saturation of the sample was relatively high through the method.

Research limitations/implications

It is hard to avoid that there may be some residual color in the nozzle through this method, and the purity of following color will be affected. As a result, continuous improvements should be made to perfect the method.

Practical implications

An approach of 3D color printing is described in detail, and what kind of model is more applicable is discussed particularly.

Originality/value

This approach is implemented to print color 3D objects with just one nozzle by means of color adherence. That is, printing the 3D objects using the filament is carried out with 1D color line, which is printed by a traditional printing method.
Enabling internal electronic circuitry within additively manufactured metal structures – the effect and importance of inter-laminar topography
Authors: Li Ji , Monaghan Tom , Kay Robert , Friel Ross James , Harris Russell
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the potential of ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) to incorporate the direct printing of electrical materials and arrangements (conductors and insulators) at the interlaminar interface of parts during manufacture to allow the integration of functional and optimal electrical circuitries inside dense metallic objects without detrimental effect on the overall mechanical integrity. This holds promise to release transformative device functionality and applications of smart metallic devices and products.

Design/methodology/approach

To ensure the proper electrical insulation between the printed conductors and metal matrices, an insulation layer with sufficient thickness is required to accommodate the rough interlaminar surface which is inherent to the UAM process. This in turn increases the total thickness of printed circuitries and thereby adversely affects the integrity of the UAM part. A specific solution is proposed to optimise the rough interlaminar surface through deforming the UAM substrates via sonotrode rolling or UAM processing.

Findings

The surface roughness (Sa) could be reduced from 4.5 to 4.1 µm by sonotrode rolling and from 4.5 to 0.8 µm by ultrasonic deformation. Peel testing demonstrated that sonotrode-rolled substrates could maintain their mechanical strength, while the performance of UAM-deformed substrates degraded under same welding conditions ( approximately 12 per cent reduction compared with undeformed substrates). This was attributed to the work hardening of deformation process which was identified via dual-beam focussed ion beam–scanning electron microscope investigation.

Originality/value

The sonotrode rolling was identified as a viable methodology in allowing printed electrical circuitries in UAM. It enabled a decrease in the thickness of printed electrical circuitries by ca. 25 per cent.
Dabigatran inhibits intravitreal thrombin activity
Authors: Bastiaans Jeroen , Mulder Verena C. , van Meurs Jan C. , Smits ‐ te Nijenhuis Marja , van Holten ‐ Neelen Conny , van Hagen P. Martin , Dik Willem A.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is a vitreoretinal disorder in which retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell activation contributes to both formation of fibrotic retinal membranes and inflammation. Vitreous of patients with PVR contains increased thrombin activity which induces profibrotic and proinflammatory programs in RPE cells. Inhibition of intravitreal thrombin activity may thus represent a therapeutic option for PVR. In this study, we examined the capacity of the clinically available direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran to inhibit thrombin activity in vitreous fluids.

Methods

ARPE‐19 cells were cultured with the following: (i) thrombin, (ii) vitreous without thrombin activity and (iii) vitreous with elevated thrombin activity (PVR samples and thrombin spiked vitreous) either in the presence or absence of dabigatran (range: 10−5 to 10−7 M). Subsequently, CCL2, CXCL8, GMCSF, IL6 and PDGFB mRNA expression levels were determined by RQ‐PCR and protein levels of 27 cytokines, chemokines and growth factors were detected in culture supernatants using a multiplex approach. In addition, the capacity of vitreous fluids obtained from patients after oral dabigatran intake was tested in an in vitro thrombin activity assay.

Results

Thrombin and vitreous fluids containing thrombin activity induced CCL2, CXCL8, GM‐CSF, IL‐6 and PDGF‐BB expression by ARPE‐19 cells, which was inhibited by dabigatran. In addition, dabigatran that reached the vitreous after repeated oral intake did inhibit thrombin activity in the in vitro activity assay.

Conclusion

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is associated with increased intravitreal thrombin activity that activates profibrotic and proinflammatory pathways in RPE cells. Our findings provide evidence that this activation pathway can potentially be inhibited by dabigatran.
Evaluating refraction and visual acuity with the Nidek autorefractometer AR‐360A in a randomized population‐based screening study
Authors: Stoor Katri , Karvonen Elina , Liinamaa Johanna , Saarela Ville
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The evaluation of visual acuity (VA) and refraction in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort Eye study was performed using the Nidek AR‐360A autorefractometer. The accuracy of the method for this population‐based screening study was assessed.

Methods

Measurements of the refractive error were obtained from the right eyes of 1238 subjects (mean age 47), first objectively with the AR‐360A and then subjectively by an optometrist. Agreement with the subjective refraction was calculated for sphere, cylinder, mean spherical equivalent (MSE), cylindrical vectors J45 and J0 and presbyopic correction (add). Visual acuity (VA) was measured using an ETDRS chart and the autorefractometer.

Results

The refractive error measured with the AR‐360A was higher than the subjective refraction performed by the optometrist for sphere (0.007 D ± 0.24 D p = 0.30) and also for cylinder (−0.16 D ± 0.20 D p < 0.0005). The bias between the measurements of MSE, J45 and J0 was low: −0.07 D ± 0.22 D (p = 0.002), 0.01 D ± 0.43 D (p = 0.25) and −0.01 D ± 0.42 D (p = 0.43), respectively. The amount of add measured by the autorefractometer was higher than the subjective 0.35 D ± 0.29 D (p < 0.0005). There was a statistically significant correlation between VA (p < 0.0005) and the difference between the subjective and objective refraction. In 99.2% of the measurements, visual values were within one decimal line of each other.

Conclusion

The Nidek AR‐360A autorefractometer is an accurate tool for determining the refraction and VA in a clinical screening trial.
The Political Economy of Family Planning: Population Dynamics and Contraceptive Markets
Authors: Bendix Daniel , Schultz Susanne
Published: November 2017

This article explores recent changes in international development policy with regard to population and reproductive health and connects these to contemporary dynamics in contraceptive markets, taking the German government and the pharmaceutical company Bayer HealthCare as an example. While the vocabulary of individual reproductive rights remains ever‐present, governments in the global South — and in Africa in particular — are currently encouraged to manage their ‘human capital’ in the light of population age composition and available resources. More than 20 years after the Cairo Conference on population and development, key documents and budgets evidence a discursive and financial shift once again towards more explicitly neo‐Malthusian approaches and stand‐alone family planning. At the same time, a return to formerly discredited long‐acting reversible contraception is evident in major public–private partnerships of governments, companies and NGOs. Drawing on policy papers, interviews and statistical data, this article finds considerable interplay between a reoriented development policy under the name of ‘population dynamics’ and the interests of pharmaceutical companies in contraceptive markets.
Instilling hope for a brighter future: A mixed‐method mentoring support programme for individuals with and recovered from anorexia nervosa
Authors: Ramjan Lucie M. , Fogarty Sarah , Nicholls Daniel , Hay Phillipa
Published: November 2017

Aims and Objectives

To investigate the feasibility of a 13‐week mentoring programme in providing social support to promote hope for recovery in anorexia nervosa.

Background

With no clear first‐line psychological treatment for people with anorexia nervosa, mentoring support programmes, as an adjunct to treatment, may provide the social support necessary to promote hope for recovery.

Design

A mixed‐method study; participatory action research.

Methods

Women (n = 11), recovering and who had recovered from anorexia nervosa, participated in the programme and completed self‐report questionnaires related to quality of life, distress and the mentoring relationship at different time points. Qualitative feedback from logbooks, workshop evaluation questionnaires, interviews and focus groups was also collected to assess the programme's acceptability.

Results

General compliance for completing most study outcome questionnaires was 90%; however, the mentoring relationship questionnaires were not completed to the same degree. Five key themes emerged from the focus group/interview data: (i) she understands me and could relate to me; (ii) reconnecting with the world—asking questions and being challenged; (iii) mentors’ altruistic motivations and the transformation and discovery of self; (iv) instilling hope—recovery is possible; and (v) effective communication—the key to successful mentoring.

Conclusions

Further research is needed; however, the results provide preliminary support for the mentoring programme's feasibility as an adjunct to treatment. We found that having someone who understands, to talk and share with, met a clear need for people with anorexia nervosa.

Relevance to clinical practice

While further research is warranted mentoring support or recovered mentors, may play a potentially valuable role in supporting those in community settings.