bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost‐effectiveness of indwelling pleural catheter compared with talc in malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Olfert Jordan A.P. , Penz Erika D. , Manns Braden J. , Mishra Eleanor K. , Davies Helen E. , Miller Robert F. , Luengo‐Fernandez Ramon , Gao Song , Rahman Najib M.
Published: December 2016

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

Malignant pleural effusion is associated with morbidity and mortality. A randomized controlled trial previously compared clinical outcomes and resource use with indwelling pleural catheter (IPC) and talc pleurodesis in this population. Using unpublished quality of life data, we estimate the cost‐effectiveness of IPC compared with talc pleurodesis.

Methods

Healthcare utilization and costs were captured during the trial. Utility weights produced by the EuroQol Group five‐dimensional three‐level questionnaire and survival were used to determine quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) gained. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) was calculated over the 1‐year trial period. Sensitivity analysis used patient survival data and modelled additional nursing time required per week for catheter drainage.

Results

Utility scores, cost and QALYs gained did not differ significantly between groups. The ICER for IPC compared with talc was favorable at $US10 870 per QALY gained. IPC was less costly with a probability exceeding 95% of being cost‐effective when survival was <14 weeks, and was more costly when 2‐h nursing time per week was assumed for catheter drainage.

Conclusion

IPC is cost‐effective when compared with talc, although substantial uncertainty exists around this estimate. IPC appears most cost‐effective in patients with limited survival. If significant nursing time is required for catheter drainage, IPC becomes less likely to be cost‐effective. Either therapy may be considered as a first‐line option in treating malignant pleural effusion in patients without history of prior pleurodesis, with consideration for patient survival, support and preferences.
Detecting Bias Arising from Delayed Recording of Time
Authors: De Stavola Bianca L. , Cox D. R.
Published: December 2016

Sometimes in studies of the dependence of survival time on explanatory variables the natural time origin for defining entry into study cannot be observed and a delayed time origin is used instead. For example, diagnosis of disease may in some patients be made only at death. The effect of such delays is investigated both theoretically and in the context of the England and Wales National Cancer Register.
Statistical Inference of The Mechanisms Driving Collective Cell Movement
Authors: Ferguson Elaine A. , Matthiopoulos Jason , Insall Robert H. , Husmeier Dirk
Published: December 2016

Numerous biological processes, many impacting on human health, rely on collective cell movement. We develop nine candidate models, based on advection–diffusion partial differential equations, to describe various alternative mechanisms that may drive cell movement. The parameters of these models were inferred from one-dimensional projections of laboratory observations of Dictyostelium discoideum cells by sampling from the posterior distribution using the delayed rejection adaptive Metropolis algorithm. The best model was selected by using the widely applicable information criterion. We conclude that cell movement in our study system was driven both by a self-generated gradient in an attractant that the cells could deplete locally, and by chemical interactions between the cells.
The Scandinavian Fantasy: The Sources of Intergenerational Mobility in Denmark and the US
Authors: Landersø Rasmus , Heckman James J.
Published: December 2016

This paper examines the sources of differences in social mobility between the US and Denmark. Measured by income mobility, Denmark is a more mobile society, but not when measured by educational mobility. There are pronounced non‐linearities in income and educational mobility in both countries. Greater Danish income mobility is largely a consequence of redistributional tax, transfer, and wage compression policies. While Danish social policies for children produce more favorable cognitive test scores for disadvantaged children, they do not translate into more favorable educational outcomes, partly because of disincentives to acquire education arising from the redistributional policies that increase income mobility.
Comparisons of the Interpersonal–Psychological Theory of Suicide Constructs Among Individuals Without Suicidality, Ideators, Planners, and Attempters
Authors: Forrest Lauren N. , Smith April R.
Published: December 2016

The Interpersonal–Psychological Theory of Suicide (IPTS) proposes that combinations of thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and acquired capability lead to suicide ideation, planning, and attempting. We compared individuals with and without suicidality on thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness, and compared a combined group of planners and attempters to ideators on fearlessness about death (one component of acquired capability). Individuals with suicidality had higher thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness than individuals without suicidality. Planners and attempters did not have higher fearlessness about death than ideators. These findings partially support IPTS hypotheses. Assessing thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness may improve suicide risk determination.
Effect of live fences of Gliricidia sepium on CO2 fluxes in tropical livestock systems
Authors: Villanueva‐López G. , Casanova‐Lugo F. , Martínez‐Zurimendi P. , Parsons D. , Aguilar‐Solís L. A.
Published: December 2016

Live fences have the potential to improve microclimatic conditions, moderate soil CO2 fluxes and function as carbon sinks. We quantified variation in soil CO2 fluxes from livestock silvopastoral systems under the canopies of live fences (LF), formed by Gliricidia sepium trees, or artificial fences (AF). We determined the responses of soil CO2 fluxes to environmental factors, including diurnal and seasonal variations in temperature and relative humidity in each fencing system. Measurements were made from April to June (dry season) and from July to September (rainy season), 2012. Fluxes were similar between the two livestock systems; LF emitted 1.00 μmol CO2/m2/s and AF 1.02 μmol CO2/m2/s. Soil temperatures at 5 cm depth were 3% warmer in AF than in LF, and relative humidity was 16% greater in LF than in AF. Seasonal variation in temperature greatly affected soil CO2 fluxes, which changed seasonally in parallel with temperature of the topsoil and relative humidity at 1 m height, peaking in late summer. Fluxes in LF and AF were greater in the rainy season (1.1 μmol CO2/m2/s, for both systems), when soil temperature was cooler and relative humidity was greatest, than during the dry season (0.9 μmol CO2/m2/s, for both systems). Soil fluxes were larger at night (00:00–06:00 h), when soil temperature was cooler and relative humidity greater, than during the morning (6:00–12:00 h), when soil temperature was warmer and relative humidity was less. The presence of G. sepium trees in LF did not influence soil CO2 fluxes.
A new genus and species of hypodermatine bot flies (Diptera: Oestridae)
Authors: PAPE THOMAS , PIWCZYŃSKI MARCIN , WYBORSKA DOMINIKA , AKBARZADEH KAMRAN , SZPILA KRZYSZTOF
Published: December 2016

The bot fly Gruninomyia mira Szpila & Pape, gen.n., sp.n. is described from Iran, North Khorasan, based on a single adult male and with no larval or host data. The monotypic genus shows a mixture of features otherwise found in either the rodent/lagomorph‐parasitizing oestromyine clade (Oestroderma + Oestromyia) or the artiodactyl‐parasitizing hypodermatine clade (Hypoderma + Pallasiomyia + Pavlovskiata + Przhevalskiana + Strobiloestrus) of subfamily Hypodermatinae. A morphology‐based phylogenetic analysis is marginally in favour of a position of Gruninomyia Szpila & Pape, gen.n. as sister taxon of (Oestroderma + Oestromyia). The COI barcode sequence is provided for the new species, and a phylogenetic analysis based on this marker for Oestridae retrieved from GenBank is in agreement with the conclusions based on morphological data.

This published work has been registered in ZooBank: http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:8F0CBE07‐4E74‐4186‐B690‐2C97D7ED7DA7.
The interrelated use of geological information and other types of geoinformation in local governments
Authors: Häggquist Elisabeth
Published: December 2016

There is a growing interest in the use of geoinformation in government decision‐making. Studies on the usability of geological information, which is one type of geoinformation, have however been scarce in the literature. A system built for an efficient organization may, therefore, not be catering to the needs of the individual user and understanding the perceived barriers to using geological information should be an important goal of geodata implementation. The objectives of this article are to: (1) investigate whether the analyses of user patterns are improved by considering an interrelated estimation with two types of geoinformation, and (2) explore whether there are gender differences in how peer advice affects the use of geoinformation. The data were collected in 2014 through a web survey, and the sample consisted of 390 women and 287 men working in Swedish municipalities. The results indicates a more accurate prediction pattern when a secondary geoinformation decision was included, thus suggesting that different types of geoinformation should be jointly analyzed. The officials tend to use both types of geoinformation, alluding to a demand for combined geoinformation products among the target population. Finally, there is evidence of women's decision to use geoinformation being affected by peer advice.
Brassinosteroid signaling converges with SUPPRESSOR OF PHYTOCHROME B4‐#3 to influence the expression of SMALL AUXIN UP RNA genes and hypocotyl growth
Authors: Favero David S. , Le Kimberly Ngan , Neff Michael M.
Published: December 2016

Interactions between signaling pathways help guide plant development. In this study, we found that brassinosteroid (BR) signaling converges with SUPPRESSOR OF PHYTOCHROME B4‐#3 (SOB3) to influence both the transcription of genes involved in cell elongation and hypocotyl growth. Specifically, SOB3 mutant hypocotyl phenotypes, which are readily apparent when the seedlings are grown in dim white light, were attenuated by treatment with either brassinolide (BL) or the BR biosynthesis inhibitor brassinazole (BRZ). Hypocotyls of SOB3 mutant seedlings grown in white light with a higher fluence rate also exhibited altered sensitivities to BL, further suggesting a connection to BR signaling. However, the impact of BL treatment on SOB3 mutants grown in moderate‐intensity white light was reduced when polar auxin transport was inhibited. BL treatment enhanced transcript accumulation for all six members of the SMALL AUXIN UP RNA19 (SAUR19) subfamily, which promote cell expansion, are repressed by SOB3 and light, and are induced by auxin. Conversely, BRZ inhibited the expression of SAUR19 and its homologs. Expression of these SAURs was also enhanced in lines expressing a constitutively active form of the BR signaling component BZR1, further indicating that the transcription of SAUR19 subfamily members are influenced by this hormone signaling pathway. Taken together, these results indicate that SOB3 and BR signaling converge to influence the transcription of hypocotyl growth‐promoting SAUR19 subfamily members.
Overexpression of the triose phosphate translocator (TPT) complements the abnormal metabolism and development of plastidial glycolytic glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase mutants
Authors: Flores‐Tornero María , Anoman Armand D. , Rosa‐Téllez Sara , Toujani Walid , Weber Andreas P.M. , Eisenhut Marion , Kurz Samantha , Alseekh Saleh , Fernie Alisdair R. , Muñoz‐Bertomeu Jesús , Ros Roc
Published: December 2016

The presence of two glycolytic pathways working in parallel in plastids and cytosol has complicated the understanding of this essential process in plant cells, especially the integration of the plastidial pathway into the metabolism of heterotrophic and autotrophic organs. It is assumed that this integration is achieved by transport systems, which exchange glycolytic intermediates across plastidial membranes. However, it is unknown whether plastidial and cytosolic pools of 3‐phosphoglycerate (3‐PGA) can equilibrate in non‐photosynthetic tissues. To resolve this question, we employed Arabidopsis mutants of the plastidial glycolytic isoforms of glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPCp) that express the triose phosphate translocator (TPT) under the control of the 35S (35S:TPT) or the native GAPCp1 (GAPCp1:TPT) promoters. TPT expression under the control of both promoters complemented the vegetative developmental defects and metabolic disorders of the GAPCp double mutants (gapcp1gapcp2). However, as the 35S is poorly expressed in the tapetum, full vegetative and reproductive complementation of gapcp1gapcp2 was achieved only by transforming this mutant with the GAPCp1:TPT construct. Our results indicate that the main function of GAPCp is to supply 3‐PGA for anabolic pathways in plastids of heterotrophic cells and suggest that the plastidial glycolysis may contribute to fatty acid biosynthesis in seeds. They also suggest a 3‐PGA deficiency in the plastids of gapcp1gapcp2, and that 3‐PGA pools between cytosol and plastid do not equilibrate in heterotrophic cells.
Clinical characteristics of doxorubicin‐associated alopecia in 28 dogs
Authors: Falk Elizabeth F. , Lam Andrea T. H. , Barber Lisa G. , Ferrer Lluis
Published: December 2016

Background

Chemotherapy‐induced alopecia (CIA) is common in humans, but there are limited reports describing the clinical features of CIA in dogs.

Objectives

To describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of doxorubicin‐associated alopecia (DAA) in canine patients at a teaching hospital from 2012 to 2014.

Animals

Signalment, diagnosis, treatment protocols and clinical examination findings were recorded in 150 dogs treated with doxorubicin from 2012 to 2014.

Methods

Medical records were searched retrospectively for the keywords “alopecia” and “hypotrichosis.” Dogs were excluded if the causal link of hair loss was unclear.

Results

Doxorubicin‐associated alopecia was reported in 28 of 150 dogs (19%). Two parameters were statistically associated with the development of DAA: coat‐type and cumulative doxorubicin dose. Dogs with curly or wire‐haired coat‐type were significantly more likely to develop DAA than dogs with straight‐haired coat‐type [χ2 (1, N = 147) = 30, P < 0.0001]. After adjusting for sex, weight and doxorubicin dose, the odds of dogs with curly or wire‐haired coat‐type developing DAA were 22 times higher than those with straight‐haired coat‐type (P < 0.0001). Dogs that developed DAA received a significantly higher median cumulative doxorubicin dose (103.0 versus 84.5 mg/m2; P = 0.0039) than those that did not develop DAA.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Dogs treated with doxorubicin may be at risk for developing DAA. This risk increases as the cumulative dose of doxorubicin increases, and with a curly or wire‐haired coat‐type.
Aspirin treatment for chronic wounds: Potential beneficial and inhibitory effects
Authors: Darby Ian Andrew , Weller Carolina Dragica
Published: December 2016

Aspirin is a generally well‐tolerated drug that is now widely used in aged patients for its antithrombotic action. Aspirin works through several pathways to reduce inflammation, fever and to alter platelet activity. The scientific literature suggests that inhibition of the cyclooxygenase enzymes by aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs may be deleterious to normal wound repair processes and result in healing inhibition. However, novel effects of aspirin on other pathways that regulate inflammation and repair have been reported more recently. These pathways, including inhibition of inflammatory second messengers and transcription factor pathways and production of anti‐inflammatory, pro‐resolution factors (lipoxins), provide a possible explanation for beneficial effects of aspirin in chronic wound healing. There have been limited studies to date that provide good evidence to support aspirin use in chronic venous leg ulcers but this may change as we see results from randomized trials that are currently being undertaken. In this article, we look at possible effects that aspirin administration may have on venous leg ulcer healing and the expanding knowledge of potential beneficial effects of aspirin that operate via novel pathways. Though the literature suggests that aspirin treatment and cyclooxygenase inhibition may have deleterious effects in normal healing, it is possible that in chronic wounds that may be trapped in an inflammatory state that aspirin treatment may result in beneficial outcomes.
Effectiveness of Interactive Self‐Management Interventions in Individuals With Poorly Controlled Type 2 Diabetes: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Cheng Li , Sit Janet W. H. , Choi Kai‐chow , Chair Sek‐ying , Li Xiaomei , He Xiao‐le
Published: December 2016

Aims

To identify, assess,
and summarize available scientific evidence on the effectiveness of interactive self‐management interventions on glycemic control and patient‐centered outcomes in individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Major English and Chinese electronic databases including Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and WanFang Data were searched to identify randomized controlled trials that reported the effectiveness of interactive self‐management interventions in individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes (glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] ≥ 7.5% or 58 mmol/mol), from inception to June 2015. Data extraction and risk‐of‐bias assessment were performed by two reviewers independently. Meta‐analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.3.

Results

A total of 16 trials with 3,545 participants were included in the meta‐analysis. Interactive self‐management interventions could have a beneficial effect in individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes in reducing HbA1c (mean difference: −0.43%, 95% CI: −0.67% to −0.18%), improving diabetes knowledge (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.58), enhancing self‐efficacy (SMD: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.14 to 0.44), and reducing diabetes‐related distress (SMD: −0.21, 95% CI: −0.39 to −0.04). Self‐management interventions supported with theory and structured curriculum showed desirable results in glycemic control. The behavioral change techniques, including providing feedback on performance, problem‐solving, and action planning, were associated with a significant reduction in HbA1c.

Linking Evidence to Action

Individuals with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes could benefit from interactive self‐management interventions. Interventions targeting patients with poorly controlled diabetes, those who are at the greatest risk of developing complications, should be prioritized. Our findings indicate that providing feedback on performance, problem‐solving, and action planning are promising behavioral change techniques specifically for individuals with poor glycemic control.
Elevated skin and core temperatures both contribute to reductions in tolerance to a simulated haemorrhagic challenge
Authors: Pearson James , Lucas Rebekah A. I. , Schlader Zachary J. , Gagnon Daniel , Crandall Craig G.
Published: December 2016

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Combined increases in skin and core temperatures reduce tolerance to a simulated haemorrhagic challenge. The aim of this study was to examine the separate and combined influences of increased skin and core temperatures upon tolerance to a simulated haemorrhagic challenge.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Skin and core temperatures increase during many occupational settings, including military procedures, in hot environments. The study findings demonstrate that both increased skin temperature and increased core temperature can impair tolerance to a simulated haemorrhagic challenge; therefore, a soldier's tolerance to haemorrhagic injury is likely to be impaired during any military activity that results in increased skin and/or core temperatures.

Tolerance to a simulated haemorrhagic insult, such as lower‐body negative pressure (LBNP), is profoundly reduced when accompanied by whole‐body heat stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the separate and combined influence of elevated skin (Tskin) and core temperatures (Tcore) on LBNP tolerance. We hypothesized that elevations in Tskin as well as Tcore would both contribute to reductions in LBNP tolerance and that the reduction in LBNP tolerance would be greatest when both Tskin and Tcore were elevated. Nine participants underwent progressive LBNP to presyncope on four occasions, as follows: (i) control, with neutral Tskin (34.3 ± 0.5°C) and Tcore (36.8 ± 0.2°C); (ii) primarily skin hyperthermia, with high Tskin (37.6 ± 0.2°C) and neutral Tcore (37.1 ± 0.2°C); (iii) primarily core hyperthermia, with neutral Tskin (35.0 ± 0.5°C) and high Tcore (38.3 ± 0.2°C); and (iv) combined skin and core hyperthermia, with high Tskin (38.8 ± 0.6°C) and high Tcore (38.1 ± 0.2°C). The LBNP tolerance was quantified via the cumulative stress index (in millimetres of mercury × minutes). The LBNP tolerance was reduced during the skin hyperthermia (569 ± 151 mmHg min) and core hyperthermia trials (563 ± 194 mmHg min) relative to control conditions (1010 ± 246 mmHg min; both P < 0.05). However, LBNP tolerance did not differ between skin hyperthermia and core hyperthermia trials (P = 0.92). The lowest LBNP tolerance was observed during combined skin and core hyperthermia (257 ± 106 mmHg min; P < 0.05 relative to all other trials). These data indicate that elevated skin temperature, as well as elevated core temperature, can both contribute to reductions in LBNP tolerance in heat‐stressed individuals. However, heat stress‐induced reductions in LBNP tolerance are greatest in conditions when both skin and core temperatures are elevated.
Gaze‐evoked nystagmus induced by alcohol intoxication
Authors: Romano Fausto , Tarnutzer Alexander A. , Straumann Dominik , Ramat Stefano , Bertolini Giovanni
Published: December 2016

Key points

The cerebellum is the core structure controlling gaze stability. Chronic cerebellar diseases and acute alcohol intoxication affect cerebellar function, inducing, among others, gaze instability as gaze‐evoked nystagmus.

Gaze‐evoked nystagmus is characterized by increased centripetal eye‐drift. It is used as an important diagnostic sign for patients with cerebellar degeneration and to assess the ‘driving while intoxicated’ condition.

We quantified the effect of alcohol on gaze‐holding using an approach allowing, for the first time, the comparison of deficits induced by alcohol intoxication and cerebellar degeneration.

Our results showed that alcohol intoxication induces a two‐fold increase of centripetal eye‐drift.

We establish analysis techniques for using controlled alcohol intake as a model to support the study of cerebellar deficits.

The observed similarity between the effect of alcohol and the clinical signs observed in cerebellar patients suggests a possible pathomechanism for gaze‐holding deficits.

Gaze‐evoked nystagmus (GEN) is an ocular‐motor finding commonly observed in cerebellar disease, characterized by increased centripetal eye‐drift with centrifugal correcting saccades at eccentric gaze. With cerebellar degeneration being a rare and clinically heterogeneous disease, data from patients are limited. We hypothesized that a transient inhibition of cerebellar function by defined amounts of alcohol may provide a suitable model to study gaze‐holding deficits in cerebellar disease. We recorded gaze‐holding at varying horizontal eye positions in 15 healthy participants before and 30 min after alcohol intake required to reach 0.6‰ blood alcohol content (BAC). Changes in ocular‐motor behaviour were quantified measuring eye‐drift velocity as a continuous function of gaze eccentricity over a large range (±40 deg) of horizontal gaze angles and characterized using a two‐parameter tangent model. The effect of alcohol on gaze stability was assessed analysing: (1) overall effects on the gaze‐holding system, (2) specific effects on each eye and (3) differences between gaze angles in the temporal and nasal hemifields. For all subjects, alcohol consumption induced gaze instability, causing a two‐fold increase [2.21 (0.55), median (median absolute deviation); P = 0.002] of eye‐drift velocity at all eccentricities. Results were confirmed analysing each eye and hemifield independently. The alcohol‐induced transient global deficit in gaze‐holding matched the pattern previously described in patients with late‐onset cerebellar degeneration. Controlled intake of alcohol seems a suitable disease model to study cerebellar GEN. With alcohol resulting in global cerebellar hypofunction, we hypothesize that patients matching the gaze‐holding behaviour observed here suffered from diffuse deficits in the gaze‐holding system as well.
Coherence and information in a fiber interferometer
Authors: Kellerer Aglaé , Wright Sidney , Lacour Sylvestre
Published: December 2016

We present an experiment based on a fibered Mach-Zehnder interferometer, with the aim of familiarizing students with fibered optics and interferometry, and of improving their understanding of optical amplification. The laboratory project has two parts. In the first, students modulate the optical path of the interferometer to study the spectra of light sources via Fourier Transform Spectroscopy. In the second, an optical amplifier is placed in one or both arms of the interferometer. The set-up uses monomode, polarization-maintaining fibers that propagate light with a wavelength of 1.5 μm. Here, we describe the set-up and the analysis of the measurements, and we present results from student reports.
Design and construction of a cost-efficient Arduino-based mirror galvanometer system for scanning optical microscopy
Authors: Hsu Jen-Feng , Dhingra Shonali , D'Urso Brian
Published: December 2016

Mirror galvanometer systems (galvos) are commonly employed in research and commercial applications in areas involving laser imaging, laser machining, laser-light shows, and others. Here, we present a robust, moderate-speed, and cost-efficient home-built galvo system. The mechanical part of this design consists of one mirror, which is tilted around two axes with multiple surface transducers. We demonstrate the ability of this galvo by scanning the mirror using a computer, via a custom driver circuit. The performance of the galvo, including scan range, noise, linearity, and scan speed, is characterized. As an application, we show that this galvo system can be used in a confocal scanning microscopy system.
Butterfly magnetoresistance, quasi-2D Dirac Fermi surface and topological phase transition in ZrSiS
Authors: Ali Mazhar N. , Schoop Leslie M. , Garg Chirag , Lippmann Judith M. , Lara Erik , Lotsch Bettina , Parkin Stuart S. P.
Published: December 2016

An unusual angle-dependent topological phase transition and butterfly magnetoresistance were found in the Dirac semimetal ZrSiS.
Bicuspid aortic valve disease: systematic review and meta-analysis of surgical aortic valve repair
Authors: Salcher Maximilian , Naci Huseyin , Pender Sarah , Kuehne Titus ,   CARDIOPROOF Consortium, Kelm Marcus
Published: December 2016

Aortic valve repair is still emerging, and its role in the treatment of bicuspid aortic valve disease (BAVD) is not yet fully understood. Our objective is to synthesise available evidence on outcomes after surgical aortic valve repair in patients with BAVD. We conducted a systematic review of clinical studies using prespecified methods for searching, identifying and selecting eligible studies in 4 databases, and synthesising results (PROSPERO 2014:CRD42014014415). 2 researchers independently reviewed full-text articles and extracted data. The results of included studies were quantitatively synthesised in frequentist meta-analyses. We included 11 aortic valve repair studies or study arms with a total of 2010 participants. Pooled estimates for the proportion of patients surviving at 30 days, 1 year, 5 years and 10 years were 0.995 (95% CI 0.991 to 0.995), 0.994 (0.989 to 0.999), 0.945 (0.898 to 0.993) and 0.912 (0.845 to 0.979), respectively. The pooled proportion of late deaths from valve-related causes was 0.008 (0.000 to 0.019) at a mean follow-up of 3.5 years. Proportion of patients with valve-related reinterventions was 0.075 (0.037 to 0.113) at a mean follow-up of 3.9 years, and the linearised reintervention rate was 1.3 (0.7 to 1.9) per 100 patient-years. Outcome reporting was insufficient to pool the results for a number of predefined outcomes. In conclusion, existing evidence on aortic valve repair in BAVD is limited to mostly small case series, case–control and small retrospective cohort studies. Despite the low quality, available evidence suggests favourable survival outcomes after aortic valve repair in selected patients with BAVD. Valve-related reinterventions at follow-up are common in all patients undergoing repair surgery.
Aegle marmelosimpedes onset of insulin resistance syndrome in rats provided with drinking fructose from weaning to adulthood stages of development — a mechanistic study
Authors: Mathur Rajani , Sehgal Ratika , Rajora Preety , Sharma Shveta , Kumar Rajesh , Mathur Sandeep
Published: December 2016

In this study, we explored the effect of aqueous extract of leaves of Aegle marmelos (AM) on hepatic carbohydrate metabolism and insulin downstream signalling in rats given fructose (15%) in drinking water from weaning to adulthood. Wistar albino rats (4 weeks old) were randomly divided into normal control (NC), fructose control (FC), and treatment (AMT) groups and were fed for a period of 8 weeks the following diets: chow + water, chow + fructose (15%), and chow + fructose (15%) + AM (500 mg/kg per day, p.o.), respectively. Compared with the NC group, the FC group was found to have significantly (p < 0.05) raised levels of fasting blood glucose, lipid, visceral mass, plasma insulin and leptin, glycogen, and gluconeogenesis enzyme but decreased glycolytic enzyme activity. Raised levels of glucose transporter 2 protein but decreased activity of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K/Akt) and Janus kinase – signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (JAK–STAT3) in hepatic tissue indicate a state of insulin and leptin resistance in the FC group. A significant (p < 0.05) lowering of physical and glycemic parameters, strengthening of the hepatic glycolytic pathway over the gluconeogenic pathway, and upregulation of the PI3K/Akt and JAK–STAT3 pathways was observed in the AMT group, as compared with the FC group. For the first time, the mechanism underlying the development of insulin resistance syndrome is delineated here, along with the potential of A. marmelos to impede it.
Vasodilatory effects and underlying mechanisms of the ethyl acetate extracts from Gastrodia elata
Authors: Dai Rong , Wang Ting , Si Xiaoqin , Jia Yuanyuan , Wang Lili , Yuan Yan , Lin Qing , Yang Cui
Published: December 2016

The objective of this study was to assess the ethyl acetate extracts of Gastrodia elata Blume (GEB) on vascular tone and the mechanisms involved. GEB was extracted with 95% EtOH followed by a further extraction with ethyl acetate. The effects of GEB and its ingredients on the isometric tensions of the aortic rings from rats were measured. The ethyl acetate extract of GEB induced a vasodilatory effect on rat aorta, which was partially dependent on endothelium. Four chemical compounds isolated from GEB were identified as 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (DB), 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (HB), 4-methoxybenzyl alcohol (MA), and 4,4′-dihydroxydiphenyl methane (DM), respectively. All of these compounds induced vasodilatations, which were dependent on the endothelium to different degrees. After pretreatment with Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester, indomethacin, or methylene blue, the vasodilatations induced by DB, HB, and MA were significantly decreased. In addition, the contractions of the rat aortic rings due to Ca2+ influx and intracellular Ca2+ release were also inhibited by DM. Furthermore, the administration of DB significantly enhanced the productions of nitric oxide (NO) and the activities of the endothelial NO synthase in aorta and in endothelial cells. Thus, GEB may play an important role in the amelioration of hypertension by modulating vascular tones.
Dynamic Fracture Simulation by Using a Discretized Virtual Internal Bond with a Regular Hexagon Cell
Authors: Chen Yaxiong , Zhang Zhennan
Published: December 2016

The discretized virtual internal bond (DVIB) is a newly developed lattice bond method for fracture simulation. The discrete structure of the DVIB method is composed of unit bond cells, which can take any geometry with any number of bonds. Hence, the DVIB is able to represent the meso-structural characters of a material composed of micro-grains. The regular hexagon is fully symmetrical in geometry, isotropic with respect to fracture propagation and has more failure directions than the usual triangular cell. Due to its geometric advantages, the regular hexagon is adopted as the unit cell of DVIB to simulate the dynamic fracture propagation. It is shown that the fracture paths simulated by this method are independent of the mesh scheme and the simulation results are reliable. The interaction between particles is characterized by a hyperelastic bond potential, and most characters of the dynamic fracture behaviors are captured. It is suggested that the DVIB with regular hexagon cells is a reliable and efficient method for dynamic fracture simulation.
Comparative Analysis of Methanogenic Communities in Different Laboratory-Scale Anaerobic Digesters
Authors: Ziganshin Ayrat M. , Ziganshina Elvira E. , Kleinsteuber Sabine , Nikolausz Marcell
Published: December 2016

Comparative analysis of methanogenic archaea compositions and dynamics in 11 laboratory-scale continuous stirred tank reactors fed with different agricultural materials (chicken manure, cattle manure, maize straw, maize silage, distillers grains, andJatrophapress cake) was carried out by analysis of the methyl coenzyme-M reductaseα-subunit (mcrA) gene. Various taxa within Methanomicrobiales, Methanobacteriaceae, Methanosarcinaceae, Methanosaetaceae, and Methanomassiliicoccales were detected in the biogas reactors but in different proportions depending on the substrate type utilized as well as various process parameters. Improved coverage and higher taxonomic resolution of methanogens were obtained compared to a previous 16S rRNA gene based study of the same reactors. Some members of the genusMethanoculleuspositively correlated with the relative methane content, whereas opposite correlations were found forMethanobacterium. Specific biogas production was found to be significantly correlating with Methanosarcinaceae. Statistical analysis also disclosed that some members of the genusMethanoculleuspositively correlated with the ammonia level, whereas the prevalence ofMethanocorpusculum,Methanobacterium, andMethanosaetawas negatively correlated with this parameter. These results suggest that the application of methanogenic archaea adapted to specific feedstock might enhance the anaerobic digestion of such waste materials in full-scale biogas reactors.
Transperitoneal Subcostal Access for Urologic Laparoscopy: Experience of a Large Chinese Center
Authors: Zhang Lei , Fang Dong , Li Xuesong , Yao Lin , Xiong Gengyan , He Zhisong , Zhou Liqun
Published: December 2016

Objective. To present our experience of using transperitoneal subcostal access, Palmer’s point (3 cm below the left costal margin in the midclavicular line), and its right corresponding site, in urologic laparoscopy. Methods. We used Palmer’s point and the right corresponding site for initial access in 302 urologic surgeries (62 cases with prior surgeries). The record of these cases was reviewed. Results. Success rate of initial access is 99.4%, and complication rate of puncturing is only 3.4% with no serious complication. In the cases with prior surgeries, there were only two cases with access complication on the right side (minor laceration of liver). For people with BMI more than 30 kg/m2 (12, 3.9%), the success rate was also 100 percent. Conclusions. Palmer’s point and the corresponding right location are feasible, effective, and safe for initial access in urologic laparoscopic surgeries. This entry technique should be used routinely in urologic laparoscopic surgeries.
Study of the Injured Persons and the Injury Pattern in Road Traffic Accident in Sana’a City, Yemen
Authors: Al-Thaifani Abdulhameed Ali , Al-Rabeei Nabil Ahmed , Dallak Abdulsalam Mohammed
Published: December 2016

Background. Fatal road traffic accidents constitute a significant public health problem. Aim. The aim of the study was to analyze road traffic accidents in Sana’a city, Yemen, during 2013–2015. Methods. The required information and data of accidents were collected, respectively, from police reported road accident statistics, Sana’a city. 11684 cases of road traffic accidents during period 2013–2015 were studied. Results. 840 people were killed and 9760 people were injured in RTAs during 2013–2015 in Sana’a city. The accident rates per 100000 of the population were 234.8 in 2013, 180.3 in 2014, and 92.2 in 2015. Mortality rates per 100000 of the population were 15.17 in 2013, 12.2 in 2014, and 8.9 in 2015. High speed was the single most important factor responsible for accidents, deaths, and injuries accounting for 38.1% of RTAs followed by drivers’ fault accounting for 18.9% of the total RTAs. The most common age group involved was ≥18 years. Males accounted for 83.1% of killed and injured persons. Most frequent victims of road traffic accidents were vehicles motor (48.9%) followed by pedestrians (38.1%). More than half of RTAs occurred on the straight road. Conclusion. RTAs are a major source of public health concern in Sana’a city, Yemen. Preventive measures to reduce the burden of mortality and morbidity due to road accidents should be introduced.
Baseline Chronic Kidney Disease and Ischemic Method of Partial Nephrectomy Are Important Factors for the Short- and Long-Term Deterioration in Renal Function for Renal Cell Carcinoma Staged T1-T2: A Retrospective Single Center Study
Authors: Kim Sung Han , Joung Jae Young , Seo Ho Kyung , Lee Kang Hyun , Chung Jinsoo
Published: December 2016

The renal functions of 215 patients (24 with benign renal mass, the rest with RCC staged T1-T2) who underwent partial nephrectomy (PN) between 2003 and 2014 were evaluated to identify predictors of short- and long-term deterioration in renal function after PN among renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients with or without preoperative predisposition to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and among patients with benign renal mass. The 1- and 5-year predictive factors for de novo CKD were statistically analyzed. The incidence of de novo CKD differed significantly (p<0.001) among patients with benign renal mass, those with RCC but no preoperative CKD predisposition, and those with RCC combined with preoperative CKD predisposition. Independent predictors for de novo CKD at 1 year postoperatively included intraoperative ischemic method, ECOG score, elevated albumin levels, male sex, and smoking exposure (in pack-years). Predictors for de novo CKD at 5 years postoperatively included hypertension, high preoperative albumin levels, De Ritis ratio (aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase ratio), smoking exposure, and preoperative predisposition to CKD. Preoperative predisposition to CKD and ischemic method applied during PN, along with other preoperative parameters, were important factors affecting postoperative renal function deterioration in patients with T1-T2 RCC.
Research on Dynamic Modeling and Application of Kinetic Contact Interface in Machine Tool
Authors: Xu Dan , Feng Zhixin
Published: December 2016

A method is presented which is a kind of combining theoretic analysis and experiment to obtain the equivalent dynamic parameters of linear guideway through four steps in detail. From statics analysis, vibration model analysis, dynamic experiment, and parameter identification, the dynamic modeling of linear guideway is synthetically studied. Based on contact mechanics and elastic mechanics, the mathematic vibration model and the expressions of basic mode frequency are deduced. Then, equivalent stiffness and damping of guideway are obtained in virtue of single-freedom-degree mode fitting method. Moreover, the investigation above is applied in a certain gantry-type machining center; and through comparing with simulation model and experiment results, both availability and correctness are validated.
Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 and BAFF Levels Are Associated with Disease Activity in Primary Sjogren’s Syndrome
Authors: Lee Sang Jin , Oh Hye Jin , Choi Byoong Yong , Jang Yu Jin , Lee Joo Youn , Park Jin Kyun , Song Yeong Wook
Published: December 2016

The study investigated the association between disease activity and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)-D3), B cell activation of the tumor necrosis factor family (BAFF), or β2 microglobulin in patients with primary Sjogren’s syndrome (SS). Sixty-nine primary SS patients and 22 sicca control patients were included in the study. Disease activity was measured with EULAR Sjogren’s syndrome disease activity index (ESSDAI). Serum levels of 25(OH)-D3 and β2 microglobulin were measured by radioimmunoassay and BAFF was measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum levels of 25(OH)-D3 were significantly lower in SS patients compared to the sicca controls (p=0.036). Serum levels of BAFF tended to be higher (p=0.225) and those of β2 microglobulin were significantly higher in patients with SS than in sicca controls (p=0.023). In univariate regression analyses, ESSDAI was significantly associated with serum levels of 25(OH)-D3, BAFF, and β2 microglobulin. After stepwise backward multivariate linear regression analyses including age and acute phase reactants, ESSDAI was associated with 25(OH)-D3 (β = −0.042, p=0.015) and BAFF (β = 0.001, p=0.015) in SS patients. In SS patients, ESSDAI is negatively associated with serum levels of 25(OH)-D3 and positively associated with BAFF.
Mycosis Fungoides of the Oral Cavity: Fungating Tumor Successfully Treated with Electron Beam Radiation and Maintenance Bexarotene
Authors: Bassuner Juri , Miranda Roberto N. , Emge Drew A. , DiCicco Beau A. , Lewis Daniel J. , Duvic Madeleine
Published: December 2016

Oral involvement in mycosis fungoides is unusual and portends a poor prognosis. The clinical findings of three new cases are described along with a differential diagnosis and review of the literature. For brevity, only one patient is discussed in detail below whereas the other two cases are solely described in table form. The patient had a four-year history of mycosis fungoides before developing an exophytic tongue tumor. He was treated with local electron beam radiation and is disease-free to date while being on maintenance therapy with oral bexarotene. Analysis of the data collected from our review of the literature and the present cases reveal key insights.
Effect of Negative Pressure on Proliferation, Virulence Factor Secretion, Biofilm Formation, and Virulence-Regulated Gene Expression ofPseudomonas aeruginosaIn Vitro
Authors: Wang Guo-Qi , Li Tong-Tong , Li Zhi-Rui , Zhang Li-Cheng , Zhang Li-Hai , Han Li , Tang Pei-Fu
Published: December 2016

Objective. To investigate the effect of negative pressure conditions induced by NPWT onP. aeruginosa.Methods.P. aeruginosawas cultured in a Luria–Bertani medium at negative pressure of −125 mmHg for 24 h in the experimental group and at atmospheric pressure in the control group. The diameters of the colonies ofP. aeruginosawere measured after 24 h. ELISA kit, orcinol method, and elastin-Congo red assay were used to quantify the virulence factors. Biofilm formation was observed by staining with Alexa Fluor® 647 conjugate of concanavalin A (Con A). Virulence-regulated genes were determined by quantitative RT-PCR.Results. As compared with the control group, growth ofP. aeruginosawas inhibited by negative pressure. The colony size under negative pressure was significantly smaller in the experimental group than that in the controls (p<0.01). Besides, reductions in the total amount of virulence factors were observed in the negative pressure group, including exotoxin A, rhamnolipid, and elastase. RT-PCR results revealed a significant inhibition in the expression level of virulence-regulated genes.Conclusion. Negative pressure could significantly inhibit the growth ofP. aeruginosa. It led to a decrease in the virulence factor secretion, biofilm formation, and a reduction in the expression level of virulence-regulated genes.
New Catalytic Method for the Synthesis of 2,7-Dicycloalkyl-hexaazaperhydropyrenes
Authors: Rakhimova Elena , Kirsanov Victor , Zainullin Radik , Ibragimov Askhat , Dzhemilev Usein
Published: December 2016

An efficient method for the synthesis of 2,7-dicycloalkyl-2,3a,5a,7,8a,10a-hexaazaperhydropyrenes by the NiCl2·6H2O-catalyzed ring transformation reaction of 1,3,5-tricycloalkyl-1,3,5-triazines with 1,4,5,8-tetraazadecalin has been successfully developed.
Reconstruction of Abdominal Wall Defects Using a Pedicled Anterolateral Thigh Flap including the Vastus Lateralis Muscle: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Fukui Kiyoko , Fujioka Masaki , Ishiyama Satoko
Published: December 2016

The purpose of abdominal wall reconstruction is to prevent hernias and protect the abdominal viscera. In cases involving full-thickness defects of the rectus abdominis muscle, the muscle layer should be repaired. We present 2 cases in which full-thickness lower rectus abdominis muscle defects were reconstructed using vastus lateralis-anterolateral thigh flaps. The pedicled vastus lateralis-anterolateral thigh flap provides skin, fascia, and muscle tissue. Furthermore, it has a long neurovascular pedicle and can reach up to the periumbilical area and cover large defects. We consider that this muscle flap is a good option for repairing full-thickness lower abdominal defects.