bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Ion Exchange Process in LDH Nanomaterials by Fast In Situ XRPD and PCA-Assisted Kinetic Analysis
Authors: Palin Luca , Milanesio Marco , van Beek Wouter , Conterosito Eleonora
Published: February 2019

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are nanomaterials with interesting properties finding applications in many fields, such as catalysis, environmental chemistry, and pharmaceuticals. They are anionic clays with positively charged layers and anions within the layers to reach neutrality. Their properties are defined by both composition and morphology. The composition can be tuned by exchanging the interlayer anion. The far more stable, common, and highly prevalent among natural LDHs is the carbonate anion thanks to its double negative charge. To adapt the properties of LDHs for technological applications, the challenge is to exchange the carbonate with the functionalizing monovalent anions in an effective and cheap way. In this study, the exchange of carbonate with nitrate ions is studied by in situ X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD). The exchange is carried out by a liquid-assisted grinding approach, inserting the mechanically ground dry sample in a capillary and then wetting it with a drop of nitric acid, while measuring the XRPD pattern. The kinetics of the process was investigated by the Avrami-Erofe’ev method; the reaction mechanism was determined using the advancing interface model and by analyzing the XRD peak shapes, which evidentiate changes in the crystallinity during the reaction. The reaction starts from the faces perpendicular to the layers and occurs along the channels, increasingly limited by diffusion when approaching the internal part of the crystals.
General‐Logistic‐Based Speed‐Density Relationship Model Incorporating the Effect of Heavy Vehicles
Authors: Liu Xingliang , Xu Jinliang , Li Menghui , Wei Leyu , Ru Han
Published: February 2019

Owing to its mathematical elegance and empirical accuracy, the speed‐density model is critical in solving macroscopic traffic problems. This study developed an improved general‐logistic‐based speed‐density model, which is a new method in macroscopic traffic flow theory. This article extensively discusses the properties of the general‐logistic‐based speed‐density model. The physical meanings and values of all the parameters were determined based on the effect of heavy vehicles and the method for the linear and nonlinear regression analysis. The accuracy and versatility of the developed model were also found to be excellent based on the field data and relative error.
Manuka Honey Modulates the Inflammatory Behavior of a dHL-60 Neutrophil Model under the Cytotoxic Limit
Authors: Minden-Birkenmaier Benjamin A. , Cherukuri Kasyap , Smith Richard A. , Radic Marko Z. , Bowlin Gary L.
Published: February 2019

Recent work has shown that Manuka honey, an increasingly popular wound additive with potent antibacterial properties, also has anti-inflammatory properties. However, little research has been done examining its effect on neutrophils. This study investigates the hypothesis that Manuka honey reduces neutrophil superoxide release and chemotaxis and reduces the activation of the inflammatory nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway under honey’s cytotoxic limit. A differentiated HL-60 cell line was used as a neutrophil model and cultured in various concentrations of Manuka honey for 3 and 24 hours to measure cytotoxicity via mitochondrial activity and visual trypan-exclusion count. Cytochrome C and Boyden chamber assays were used to measure the effect of Manuka honey on superoxide release and chemotaxis toward fMLP, respectively. Additionally, a Western blot for NF-κB inhibitorα(IκBα) was performed to measure Manuka honey’s effect on the NF-κB pathway via IκBαphosphorylation. The results indicate a cytotoxic limit of 3-5% v/v. The presence of 1% honey decreased superoxide release at 24 hours. The 0.5, 1, and 3% honey concentrations reduced chemotaxis and IκBαphosphorylation in a dose-dependent fashion. These results suggest that Manuka honey significantly reduces neutrophil recruitment and inflammatory behavior in the wound site in a dose-dependent fashion under the cytotoxic limit.
Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies of Nosocomial Infection in Geriatric Patients
Authors: Li Yajie , Ren Liqun , Zou Jihong
Published: February 2019

Introduction. To investigate the risk factors of nosocomial infections (NIs) in geriatric department and the effectiveness of the proposed prevention strategy. Methodology. We studied 3370 cases of elderly patients who were hospitalized more than 48 hours from January 2015 to December 2017 in the Geriatrics Department of Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University. In order to reduce the infection rate, nutritional risk screening (NRS 2002) was used to evaluate the nutritional status of the patients; enteral nutritional suspension (TPF-FOS) was provided to the patients who were assessed to be necessary. Results. Before prevention strategy was taken, the nosocomial infection rate was 3.3% (80 among 2413 patients) in our department. The most frequent NIs were pneumonia (60 cases) followed by urinary tract infection (30 cases). It is worth noting that the elderly patients are often associated with multiple infections: in our study, 15 patients have pneumonia and UTI at the same time. After prevention strategy was taken, the nosocomial infection rate reduced to 1.15% (11 among 957 patients) in our department. Conclusions. NIs are common in elderly patients. The improvement of the nutritional status of patients is effective in reducing the risks of NIs.
Anterior Segment Biometry with Phenylephrine and Tropicamide during Accommodation Imaged with Ultralong Scan Depth Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Zhang Junna , Ni Yang , Li Peng , Sun Wen , Liu Mengyun , Guo Dongyu , Du Chixin
Published: February 2019

Purpose. To investigate the influence of phenylephrine and tropicamide on anterior segment biometry with ultralong scan depth optical coherence tomography (UL-OCT) during accommodation. Methods. In this study, 20 left eyes of healthy volunteers with a mean ± standard deviation age of 31.05 ± 5.84 years and a mean refraction of −1.16 ± 1.11 diopters (range 0∼−3.0 D) were imaged using UL-OCT after instillation of artificial tears, phenylephrine, and tropicamide in three follow-up trials, respectively. At each follow-up trial, two repeated measurements were performed at states of relax and 5D accommodative stimulation. The dimensional parameters included central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), pupil diameter (PD), lens thickness (LT), and horizontal radii of the lens anterior and posterior surface curvatures (LAC and LPC). Results. Tropicamide led to larger pupil, deeper ACD, thinner LT, and flatter crystalline lens surface (P<0.05). Phenylephrine induced an increase in PD (P<0.05), while no significant changes were seen in ACD, LT, LAC, and LPC (P>0.05). CCT did not change after both phenylephrine and tropicamide instillation in this study (P>0.05). Tropicamide induced the loss of accommodation and phenylephrine achieved pupil dilation without affecting the accommodation. PD, ACD decreased, LT increased significantly and the anterior and posterior surface of the lens in a 6.294 mm of diameter optical zone became steeper during accommodation after administration of phenylephrine (P<0.05). Conclusion. The anterior segment physiology changed after tropicamide instillation. Besides, tropicamide induced the loss of accommodation and phenylephrine preserved the accommodation with a larger pupil. And, the anterior and posterior surface of lens in a 6.294 mm of diameter optical zone became steeper during the accommodation.
Language in Preterm Born Children: Atypical Development and Effects of Early Interventions on Neuroplasticity
Authors: Vandormael Charlotte , Schoenhals Lucie , Hüppi Petra S. , Filippa Manuela , Borradori Tolsa Cristina
Published: February 2019

Predicting language performances after preterm birth is challenging. It is described in the literature that early exposure to the extrauterine environment can be either detrimental or advantageous for neurodevelopment. However, the emphasis mostly lies on the fact that preterm birth may have an unfavorable effect on numerous aspects of development such as cognition, language, and behavior. Various studies reported atypical language development in preterm born children in the preschool years but also in school-aged children and adolescents. This review gives an overview of the course of language development and examines how prematurity can lead to atypical linguistic performances. In this paper, we mainly focus on environmental and neurophysiological factors influencing preterm infant neuroplasticity with potential short- and long-term effects on language development. Further research, however, should focus on examining the possible benefits that early exposure might entail.
Adaptive Triangular Deployment of Underwater Wireless Acoustic Sensor Network considering the Underwater Environment
Authors: Kim Woojoong , Moon Hyun Wook , Yoon Young Joong
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we propose an adaptive triangular deployment algorithm that can adjust sensor distribution depending on the variation in communication performance in an underwater environment. To predict the distance between sensor nodes, a performance surface model is implemented by estimating the communication performance based on spatio-temporal environment factors affecting the communication performance of the underwater sensor node. Subsequently, the performance surface model is applied to the adaptive triangular deployment algorithm and is used to control the distance between nodes. Therefore, underwater wireless sensor networks deployed with adaptive triangular deployment algorithms can achieve a maximum connectivity rate with an optimal number of nodes.
Functionalized Fe3O4Magnetic Nanoparticle Potentiometric Detection Strategy versus Classical Potentiometric Strategy for Determination of Chlorpheniramine Maleate and Pseudoephedrine HCl
Authors: Moustafa Azza A. , Hegazy Maha A. , Mohamed Dalia , Ali Omnia
Published: February 2019

Nanosized adsorbents when used in potentiometric methods of analysis usually show better performance rather than the traditional potentiometric approach; this is attributed to the high specific surface area of the nanomaterial used in addition to the lack of internal diffusion resistance, thus improving their adsorption capacity. In the presented work, a rapid and sensitive potentiometric determination of chlorpheniramine maleate (CPM) and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (PSE) in pure form, in pharmaceutical preparation, and in biological fluid was developed based on functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4). This strategy was compared with the classical potentiometric strategy. Three types of sensors were constructed using phosphotungstic acid (PTA),β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), andβ-cyclodextrin-conjugated Fe3O4magnetic nanoparticles for the potentiometric determination of each of CPM and PSE. The prepared sensors were characterized in regards to their composition, life duration, working pH range, and response time. The sensors have demonstrated promising selectivity to CPM and PSE in the presence of pharmaceutical formulation excipients, plasma matrix, and a diversity of both organic and inorganic interfering materials. The developed sensors have displayed good responses. Statistical comparison of the achieved results with a reported method has revealed no significant difference regarding both accuracy and precision.
Leukodepleted Packed Red Blood Cells Transfusion in Patients Undergoing Major Cardiovascular Surgical Procedure: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Simancas-Racines Daniel , Arevalo-Rodriguez Ingrid , Urrutia Gerard , Buitrago-Garcia Diana , Núñez-González Solange , Martínez-Zapata María José , Madrid Eva , Bonfill Xavier , Hidalgo-Ottolenghi Ricardo
Published: February 2019

Background. Leukocytes contained in the allogeneic packed red blood cell (PRBC) are the cause of certain adverse reactions associated with blood transfusion. Leukoreduction consists of eliminating leukocytes in all blood products below the established safety levels for any patient type. In this systematic review, we appraise the clinical effectiveness of allogeneic leukodepleted (LD) PRBC transfusion for preventing infections and death in patients undergoing major cardiovascular surgical procedures.Methods. We searched randomized controlled trials (RCT), enrolling patients undergoing a major cardiovascular surgical procedure and transfused with LD-PRBC. Data were extracted, and risk of bias was assessed according to Cochrane guidelines. In addition, trial sequential analysis (TSA) was used to assess the need of conducting additional trials. Quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.Results. Seven studies met the eligibility criteria. Quality of the evidence was rated as moderate for both outcomes. The risk ratio for death from any cause comparing the LD-PRBC versus non-LD-PRBC group was 0.69 (CI 95% = 0.53 to 0.90;I2 = 0%). The risk ratio for infection in the same comparison groups was 0.77 (CI 95% = 0.66 to 0.91;I2 = 0%). TSA showed a conclusive result in this outcome.Conclusions. We found evidence that supports the routine use of leukodepletion in patients undergoing a major cardiovascular surgical procedure requiring PRBC transfusion to prevent death and infection. In the case of infection, the evidence should be considered sufficient and conclusive and hence indicated that further trials would not be required.
The Impact of Asymmetric Left and Asymmetric Right Face Images on Accurate Age Estimation
Authors: Sajid Muhammad , Iqbal Ratyal Naeem , Ali Nouman , Zafar Bushra , Dar Saadat Hanif , Mahmood Muhammad Tariq , Joo Young Bok
Published: February 2019

Aging affects left and right half face differently owing to numerous factors such as sleeping habits, exposure to sun light, and weaker face muscles of one side of face. In computer vision, age of a given face image is estimated using features that are correlated with age, such as moles, scars, and wrinkles. In this study we report the asymmetric aging of the left and right sides of face images and its impact on accurate age estimation. Left symmetric faces were perceived as younger while right symmetric faces were perceived as older when presented to the state‐of‐the‐art age estimator. These findings show that facial aging is an asymmetric process which plays role in accurate facial age estimation. Experimental results on two large datasets verify the significance of using asymmetric right face image to estimate the age of a query face image more accurately compared to the corresponding original or left asymmetric face image.
Design and Prediction of a Novel Two-Dimensional Carbon Nanostructure with In-Plane Negative Poisson’s Ratio
Authors: Yuan Kun , Li Meng-Yang , Liu Yan-Zhi , Li Ren-Zhong
Published: February 2019

The intrinsic negative Poisson’s ratio effect in 2-dimensional nanomaterials have attracted a lot of research interests due to its superior mechanical properties, and new mechanisms have emerged in the nanoscale. In this paper, we designed a novel graphyne-like two-dimensional carbon nanostructure with a “butterfly” shape (GL-2D-1) and its configuration isomer with a “herring-bone” form (GL-2D-2) by means of density functional theoretical calculation and predicted their in-plane negative Poisson’s ratio effect and other mechanical properties. Both GL-2D-1 and GL-2D-2 present a significant negative Poisson’s ratio effect under different specific strains conditions. By contrast, GL-2D-2 presents a much stronger negative Poisson’s ratio effect and mechanical stability than does GL-2D-1. It is hoped that this work could be a useful structural design strategy for the development of the 2D carbon nanostructure with the intrinsic negative Poisson’s ratio.
Study on Grinding Mechanism of Brake Pad with Copper Matrix Composites for High-Speed Train
Authors: Su Chong , Wang Chao , Sun Xiaoshuai , Sang Xinghua
Published: February 2019

The processing mechanism of copper matrix composites is very complex, for the particle phase and lubricating phase are randomly distributed in the copper matrix phase, and the characteristics of the three phases are completely different. Aiming at understanding the chip formation and the influence of each phase of the material on the workpiece surface morphology, a single abrasive grain cutting experiment is carried out. Experiment results show that the cutting force increases with the increase in the cutting depth, but the increase amplitude is smaller. Extrusion of the abrasive particles causes plastic deformation of the copper matrix phase and brittle fracture of the particle phase and graphite phase. It results in the defects on the groove surface, such as pits, collapses and cracks, and holes. The brittle fracture of the graphite phase and the breaking and falling off of the particle phase block the plastic deformation of the copper alloy, which makes the copper alloy not forming ductile chips. The chip is mainly powdery. It shows that the brittle fracture is the main removal form of the brake pad material. The copper matrix phase on the surface of the groove produces obvious plastic deformation. The plastic deformation at the bottom is larger and has a certain degree of fibrosis appearing.
Effectiveness of Kangaroo Care for a Patient with Postpartum Depression and Comorbid Mother-Infant Bonding Disorder
Authors: Takubo Youji , Nemoto Takahiro , Obata Yohei , Baba Yoko , Yamaguchi Taiju , Katagiri Naoyuki , Tsujino Naohisa , Kitamura Toshinori , Mizuno Masafumi
Published: February 2019

The presently reported patient was a 37-year-old married primipara with peripartum depression comorbid with bonding disorder. Care anxiety and a lack of affection towards her baby first appeared at around the time of delivery, and the patient developed major depression at one month after the birth of her healthy baby. At first, standard treatment for major depression including the use of antidepressants, electroconvulsive therapy, and supportive psychotherapy were provided. However, bonding problems appeared to impede and obstruct the amelioration of depression. Although treatment methods for bonding disorder have not yet been established, Kangaroo Care was introduced to facilitate skin-to-skin contact. We also educated her in better parenting behavior and provided repeated motivational interviews with her family because a lack of partner and social support and personal temperament (low self-directedness and cooperativeness) were thought to be related to her bonding disorder. This case suggests the effectiveness of Kangaroo Care, which promotes a humanizing maturation of both baby and parent alike, for mothers with postpartum depression and comorbid severe bonding disorder.
Phytochemical Composition and Chronic Hypoglycemic Effect of Bromelia karatas on STZ-NA-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Escandón-Rivera Sonia M. , Andrade-Cetto Adolfo , Sánchez-Villaseñor Gabriela
Published: February 2019

Oral administration of an aqueous extract of the aerial parts of Bromelia karatas to STZ-NA rats showed a significant hypoglycemic effect in a chronic trial lasting 42 days. Chromatographic profiles of the active extract (WE) and an organic extract (OE) of B. karatas were obtained by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and used to identify their major components. Isolation and identification of the compounds present in the extracts were accomplished by means of various conventional chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. This process led to the identification of β-sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1) and ρ-coumaric acid (3) as the major compounds present in the extracts. During the isolation of 1 and 3, seven additional metabolites not previously reported for the plant were obtained, namely, cirsiliol 4′-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (2), stigmasterol (4), β-sitosterol (5), 1-O-feruloyl-3-O-ρ-coumaroylglycerol (6), β-D-(1-O-acetyl-3,6-O-trans-diferuloyl) fructofuranosyl-α-D-2′,4′,6′-O-triacetylglucopyranoside (7), 1-O-p-coumaroyl-3-O-caffeoylglycerol (8), and 2-propyl-β-glucopyranoside (9).
Randomized, Double-Blinded, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Shenfu Injection for Treatment of Patients with Chronic Heart Failure during the Acute Phase of Symptom Aggravation (Yang and Qi Deficiency Syndrome)
Authors: Wang Xianliang , Zhao Zhiqiang , Mao Jingyuan , Du Tinghai , Chen Yuanping , Xu Hao , Liu Nan , Wang Xiaolong , Wu Jianguang , Li Rong , Xu Yong , Zhao Yingqiang , Wang Lei , He Jingsong , Zhang Junhua , Zhai Jingbo , Zhao Guoyuan , Hou Yazhu , Wang Shuai , Liu Chunxiang
Published: February 2019

Background. Shenfu injection (SFI) has shown a remarkable therapeutic effect in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) during the acute phase of symptom aggravation since it became commercially available in 1987. However, the therapeutic effect of SFI has not been validated in a standard clinical study. As a pilot clinical trial, this study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of SFI for treatment of CHF patients during the acute phase. Methods. A total of 160 patients experiencing acute phase CHF were enrolled in this study and randomly assigned to receive the placebo (placebo group, 150 ml glucose (GS)) or SFI (SFI group, 50 ml SFI + 100 ml GS) in addition to their standard medications for CHF treatment. The treatment lasted for 7 ± 1 days, and the follow-up continued for 28 ± 3 days after treatment. The primary endpoints were New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome scores. Results. After 7±1 days of treatment, the efficacy of SFI according to improvements in NYHA and TCM syndrome scores in the SFI group (78.38% and 89.19%, respectively) was significantly higher than that in the placebo group (61.43% and 60.00%, respectively; P<0.05). The SFI group had a longer increase in amplitude than the placebo group (113.00 m versus 82.99 m, P<0.05). The incidence of adverse events and other safety indices showed no significant differences between the two groups. Conclusion. SFI combined with conventional therapy for treatment of CHF during acute symptom aggravation ameliorated the cardiac dysfunction and clinical symptoms and improved the patients’ quality of life without any significant AEs compared with the conventional therapy alone.
Pancreatic Progenitors and Organoids as a Prerequisite to Model Pancreatic Diseases and Cancer
Authors: Hohwieler Meike , Müller Martin , Frappart Pierre-Olivier , Heller Sandra
Published: February 2019

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are characterized by their unique capacity to stepwise differentiate towards any particular cell type in an adult organism. Pluripotent stem cells provide a beneficial platform to model hereditary diseases and even cancer development. While the incidence of pancreatic diseases such as diabetes and pancreatitis is increasing, the understanding of the underlying pathogenesis of particular diseases remains limited. Only a few recent publications have contributed to the characterization of human pancreatic development in the fetal stage. Hence, most knowledge of pancreatic specification is based on murine embryology. Optimizing and understanding current in vitro protocols for pancreatic differentiation of ESCs and iPSCs constitutes a prerequisite to generate functional pancreatic cells for better disease modeling and drug discovery. Moreover, human pancreatic organoids derived from pluripotent stem cells, organ-restricted stem cells, and tumor samples provide a powerful technology to model carcinogenesis and hereditary diseases independent of genetically engineered mouse models. Herein, we summarize recent advances in directed differentiation of pancreatic organoids comprising endocrine cell types. Beyond that, we illustrate up-and-coming applications for organoid-based platforms.
Responsiveness to PD-1 Blockade in End-Stage Colon Cancer with Gene Locus 9p24.1 Copy-Number Gain
Authors: Ree Anne Hansen , Nygaard Vigdis , Russnes Hege G. , Heinrich Daniel , Nygaard Vegard , Johansen Christin , Bergheim Inger Riise , Hovig Eivind , Beiske Klaus , Negård Anne , Børresen-Dale Anne-Lise , Flatmark Kjersti , Mælandsmo Gunhild M.
Published: February 2019

Most patients whose large bowel cancer has spread to other organs do not respond to immune therapy. We detected a rare gene mutation, termed 9p24.1 copy-number gain (CNG), in an otherwise incurable colorectal cancer that provoked an immune therapy response. We identified this gene mutation by gene-panel sequencing of DNA from a liver metastasis biopsy from a patient who had disease refractory to standard therapies. Following immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) with pembrolizumab (anti–PD-1), the patient experienced conversion of the tumor phenotype from one with epithelial features to that of an inflamed microenvironment, detected by high-resolution RNA sequencing. Circulating tumor DNA disappeared over the first weeks of therapy. As assessed by standard radiographic measurement, the patient had a partial response that was durable. This patient's response may support the use of histology-agnostic ICB in solid tumors that carry the rare 9p24.1 CNG.
Integrating Parents in Neonatal and Pediatric Research
Authors: Janvier Annie , Bourque Claude Julie , Dahan Sonia , Robson Kate , Barrington Keith James ,   on behalf of the Partenariat Famille (PAF) team
Published: February 2019

Background: Parents and their infants are the beneficiaries of neonatal and pediatric research, but in the past they have been excluded from most stages of research projects. As a result, many projects may fail to produce the most worthwhile information for parents and families. Lately, veteran resource parents and patients have been increasingly integrated in research initiatives. Methods: Benchmarking of neonatal and pediatric research initiatives where resource parents and/or ex neonatal patients have helped to optimize pediatric research. We review ways in which resource parents/patients can be involved in research, with examples and practical ideas of how to proceed. Results: Resource parents/patients can be collaborators in research and be integrated in many steps: prioritizing research projects, designing trials, determining the outcomes of interest, ethics review, developing and improving consent procedures, collection and interpretation of data, participation in data safety monitoring committees, publication of results, and presentation to peer groups. Some of the strategies for integration of stakeholders in clinical research are more complex, may involve risk and require more training than others. Conclusion: We suggest that groups wanting to involve parents in their research endeavors start with simpler tasks that entail less risk and develop teams of resource parents who have differing interests and abilities. Quality control of programs is essential, such as frequently giving and obtaining feedback from resource parents/patients and researchers. In the future, integration of resource parents/patients into every step of clinical research will be essential to ensure that parent and family important outcomes are examined.
A Case of Unresectable Pulmonary Artery Intimal Sarcoma with Prolonged Survival by Chemotherapy
Authors: Noguchi Takuro , Gomi Daisuke , Fukushima Toshirou , Ozawa Takesumi , Kobayashi Takashi , Sekiguchi Nodoka , Mamiya Keiko , Koizumi Tomonobu
Published: February 2019

Pulmonary artery intimal sarcoma is a rare malignant tumor. Due to its low prevalence, little is known about efficacious systemic chemotherapies in cases where the tumors are unresectable or metastatic. In addition, the location of the disease can contribute to poor survival regardless of the response to therapy, as the tumor’s position can cause pulmonary artery hypertension either rapidly or chronically. We encountered a case of unresectable pulmonary artery intimal sarcoma with lung metastases. Treatment with several cytotoxic agents resulted in prolonged survival of 14.2 months. Here, we report the clinical course of this case and present a review of the relevant literature.
3D-Vermessung von Hornhautspendergewebe mithilfe des OCT - ein Spielzeug oder sinnvoller Einsatz in der Hornhautbank-Routine?
Authors: Linke Stephan Johannes
Published: February 2019

Zielsetzung: Wir stellen ein Konzept zur berührungslosen tomographischen Vermessung und Charakterisierung von Hornhautspendergewebe im Kulturmedium vor mit dem Ziel, dieses auf Pathologien und Veränderungen nach refraktiver Chirurgie zu untersuchen. Methodik: Die Bildaufnahme erfolgt mit einem klinischen optischen Kohärenztomografen (OCT) für den vorderen Augenabschnitt (Casia 2, Tomey Corp., Nagoya, Japan). Nach der Bildvorverarbeitung wird eine Kantenerkennung der Vorder- und Rückfläche der Spenderhornhaut durchgeführt. Anschließend wird an die detektierten Flächen jeweils ein sphärozylindrisches Flächenmodell angepasst, aus welchem die Krümmungsradien, die Flächenbrechwerte sowie der Keratometerwert und die zentrale Dicke der Hornhaut bestimmt werden. Zur Validierung setzten wir ein Hornhautphantom mit definierter Geometrie ein, abschließend wurden 74 Spenderhornhäute in der Zellkulturflasche vermessen. Ergebnisse: Der große Tiefenmessbereich des OCTs erlaubt eine Vermessung des Phantoms und der Gewebeproben in der Kulturflasche, wobei ein Messbereich von ca. 7 mm Durchmesser erreicht wird. Flaschenwand- und Halterartefakte können zuverlässig aus den Daten entfernt werden, sodass die Berechnung des sphärozylindrischen Modells für die Vorder- und Rückfläche erfolgreich durchführbar ist. Die Messergebnisse für das Phantom zeigen geringe Abweichungen von den Herstellerangaben. Die gemessenen Krümmungsradien der Spenderhornhäute bewegen sich im Normalbereich. Schlussfolgerung: Das Vorderabschnitts-OCT Casia 2 erlaubt eine schnelle Vermessung von Spenderhornhautgewebe im Kulturmedium. Der messbare Bereich von ca. 7 mm ist im Wesentlichen durch die verwendete Halterung für das Spendergewebe limitiert. Aus den Volumendaten können topographische und pachymetrische Parameter berechnet werden.
Treatment of Sinonasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma with TPF and Concurrent Chemo-Radiation: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Barber Emily , Eapen Ann , Nabar Rupali , Goreal Wamda , Bunney Jill , Parajuli Ritesh
Published: February 2019

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is a rare, poorly differentiated and aggressive malignancy of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses first reported by Frierson et al. in 1986 with less than 300 known cases reported since then. Due to the rarity and aggressive nature of the disease, there is a lack of consensus regarding optimal management in these patients. Treatment decisions have mostly been guided by a small number of cases series and can vary widely between institutions. In this unique case presentation, we review a case of sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma in a young Hispanic male reviewing the literature on a rare disease, in order to elucidate effective treatment options for improved future outcomes. Based off of literature review and prior case series, the multiple modality approach should result in the best possible outcome for this rare and aggressive disease. In this specific case of a young Hispanic male with Stage IVB SNUC, we proceeded with Neo-adjuvant TPF (Docetaxel, cisplatin and fluorouracil) with effective results, followed by Cisplatin and concurrent radiation once the patient had interval progression, and was deemed unresectable. Given the rarity and complexity of this disease, a prospective randomized controlled study should eventually be pursued to properly determine the most effective mode and combination of therapies. At this time treatment can only be based on reported case series and a small number of retrospective studies, and therefore it is important to continue to evaluate different institutions’ methods of treatment.
Rare Histological Type of Adenoma of the Nonpigmented Ciliary Epithelium
Authors: Ishiahara Kentaro , Hashida Noriyasu , Asao Kazunobu , Usui Shinichi , Maruyama Kazuichi , Nishida Kohji
Published: February 2019

We report the rare case of an adenoma of the nonpigmented ciliary epithelium (NPCE). A 67-year-old healthy man presented with a regularly shaped and nonpigmented mass at the iris root of his right eye. His best-corrected visual acuity was 1.5 with normal intraocular pressure. During observation, the size of the tumor remained stable for 1.5 years but then rapidly grew, extending through the iris, and gradually enlarged to the point of compressing the iris. Ultimately, an iridocyclectomy with scleral resection under a lamellar scleral flap was performed. The histopathologic features of the resected tissue were consistent with adenoma of the NPCE. Histopathological analysis showed that the tumor consisted of both tubular and solid components. There were solid lesions inside of the ciliary epithelium and tubular lesions outside. We observed positive immunoreactivity to vimentin and cytokeratin CK (AE1/AE3) and negative reactivity to S-100 and CD68, both rarely associated with adenoma of NPCE. During 1 year of follow-up after the iridocyclectomy, no signs of tumor recurrence were observed.
Accelerated Weight Gain Subsequent to Postnatal Slow Weight Gain and Overweight Risk in Early Childhood: A Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Akaboshi Izumi
Published: February 2019

Background: The effects of accelerated weight gain (AWG) immediately after a postnatal slow weight gain (PSWG) on the risk of later overweight is unknown. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between AWG after PSWG and overweight risk at 3 years of age. Methods: This nested case-control study included 255 subjects born at term, appropriate for gestational age, and with normal birth weight but PSWG (< 0.67 SD score) until 3–4 months of age. Overweight cases at 3 years of age were defined according to International Obesity Task Force criteria. The association between AWG after PSWG and overweight status at age 3 years was analyzed by the Fisher’s exact, Breslow-Day, and Mantel-Haenszel tests. Results: Seven of the subjects that showed AWG after PSWG were deemed overweight at age 3. An AWG from 6–9 to 17–20 months after PSWG during the first 3–4 months of life had the most significant association with overweight status at 3 years of age (adjusted OR 10.06, 95% CI 1.74–58.01, p value: 0.0022). Conclusions: AWG immediately after PSWG, even occurring at only 1 of 3 interval from 3–4 to 6–9 months, from 6–9 to 17–20 months, and 17–20 months to 3 years after PSWG, leads to an overweight status at 3 years of age. Monitoring weight growth after PSWG may help identify AWG and later overweight risk.
Role of Lipoprotein Apheresis in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Reduction
Authors: Raina Rupesh , Young Claire , Krishnappa Vinod , Chanchlani Rahul
Published: February 2019

Background and Aim: Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and/or lipoprotein(a) are established risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Management of hypercholesterolemia consists of drug therapies, including statins and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors. In patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), lipoprotein apheresis (LA) is utilized to control lipid levels. However, LA is not currently a standard therapy for non-FH. This review summarizes the literature regarding LA therapy in CVD prevention. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE databases were searched using the keywords “LA” and “CVD”. Citations were individually reviewed for relevance. Results: The efficacy of LA was clearly demonstrated, largely based on evidence from observational studies. In patients who are unresponsive to traditional lipid-lowering medications, LA effectively reduced serum lipoprotein levels and adverse cardiovascular events. Conclusion: It was concluded that LA is a safe and effective technique that could be considered in the management of hypercholesterolemia and future risk. Randomized control trials would further support a role for LA as a therapeutic option.
Siegfried Kracauer e Erich Auerbach
Authors: Corpas Danielle
Published: February 2019

O artigo aponta afinidades entre os pensamentos de Erich Auerbach e Siegfried Kracauer, discutindo procedimentos metodológicos e questões críticas recorrentes. A ênfase recai sobre matizes e implicações de suas concepções de realismo estético e sobre o interesse de seus trabalhos para o debate teórico e para o exercício da crítica literária hoje.
Epidemia em papel e tinta
Authors: Bertucci Liane Maria
Published: February 2019

A partir de textos publicados nos jornais da cidade de São Paulo em 1918, este artigo aborda aspectos da narrativa construída pela imprensa sobre a gripe espanhola. Uma narrativa que reeditava a percepção milenar do homem diante do perígo epidêmico e também apontava nuances diante da gripe espanhola. Eram vários os artigos, pontuados por elogios ou críticas, que divulgavam considerações médicas sobre a epidemia e iniciativas médico-governamentais para socorrer os doentes, além difundirem as ações de moradores da cidade para auxiliar os gripados e suas famílias. Da doação de camas até a distribuição de alimentos, foram vários os auxílios individuais e de grupos organizados (civis e religiosos) realizados durante os terríveis dias da gripe espanhola.
O Programa Conservador das Águas e sua Relação com o Uso da Terra em Extrema-MG
Authors: Mataveli Guilherme Augusto Verola , Guerrero João Vitor Roque , Chaves Michel Eustáquio Dantas , Justino Rodrigo Cesário , Kawakubo Fernando Shinji , Morato Rubia Gomes
Published: February 2019

O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar uma análise multitemporal do uso da terra do município de Extrema (MG), através do Sensoriamento Remoto (SR) e da técnica Geospatial Object Based Image Analysis (GEOBIA), considerando o início dos programas de conservação ambiental de adesão voluntária presentes no município e o período atual, com foco nas Áreas de Preservação Permanente (APPs). Foram utilizadas imagens orbitais dos sensores Thematic Mapper (TM) do Landsat-5 e Operational Land Imager (OLI) do Landsat-8, além do modelo digital de elevação Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). A classificação do uso da terra foi realizada a partir da GEOBIA em ambiente eCognition Developer ® 64 (ED64), que além da informação espectral também inclui outras informações importantes no processo de decisão, tais como textura e forma. Como resultado, foi identificado que entre 2006 e 2016 as áreas de mata do município aumentaram de 86 km² para 108 km². Além disso, foi constatado que 31% da área do município (76,5 km²) são áreas de APP de acordo com a legislação vigente, e que o aumento significativo de 10% da mata em áreas de APP demonstra um comprometimento do município com a qualidade ambiental local e a efetividade do programa de conservação.
Análise da Vulnerabilidade Ambiental da Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Claro (GO) Utilizando Geotecnologias
Authors: Santos Patrícia Tinoco , Martins Alécio Perini
Published: February 2019

A Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Claro (BHRC) apresenta grande importância para a mesorregião Sul Goiano (GO), considerando que por meio da distribuição e correlação espacial dos elementos que formam o sistema da referida bacia dependem a economia, a sobrevivência e o bem-estar da população atual e das gerações futuras. O uso da terra para fins agropecuários (78,2%), bem como sua caracterização quanto a geologia, geomorfologia, solos e clima, demonstra o grande potencial da região para tais atividades, entretanto, tal uso vem gerando degradação da área devido a práticas inadequadas de manejo. Os solos na área da BHRC possuem alta estabilidade, e o clima tropical, o qual apresenta elevada temperatura durante todo o ano e baixa amplitude térmica, garante médias elevadas de precipitação. A precipitação garante o abastecimento dos canais fluviais, entretanto, também favorecem erosões em áreas descobertas por vegetação. A partir de geotecnologias, e considerando a análise sistêmica da região, foi realizado o estudo da vulnerabilidade ambiental na área da BHRC, conforme metodologia de Crepani (2001), no qual se pode caracterizá-la como sendo de estabilidade intermediária, tendenciada a vulnerável (44,1%). Foram detectadas em campo vulnerabilidade maiores do que a que foi apresentada nos resultados dos mapas, isso se deve pela baixa vulnerabilidade obtida em alguns temas como o clima e geomorfologia. As áreas mais vulneráveis encontram-se próximas as principais nascentes da bacia, e indicam a necessidade de intensificação de ações de conservação nessas áreas e a efetivação de políticas específicas para controle e monitoramento ambiental.
Bioindicadores Edáficos de Fragmentos Florestais Urbanos da Cidade de São Paulo (SP)
Authors: Patucci Natalia Nunes , Oliveira Filho Luís Carlos Iuñes , Silva Carlos Batista da , Oliveira Déborah de , Baretta Dilmar , Brescovit Antonio Domingos
Published: February 2019

A pesquisa avaliou a biodiversidade e qualidade de solos em fragmentos florestais urbanos da cidade de São Paulo (SP), especificamente nos parques Cientec, Cantareira e Jaraguá, utilizando exemplares edáficos como bioindicadores de alteração ambiental. Foram verificadas a diversidade, frequência e riqueza dos indivíduos coletados e suas correlações com alternância de ambientes, estação do ano e atributos químicos como pH, C.O, K, P, Ca, Mg e Al, respeitando a réplica verdadeira dos ambientes (n = 3). Delimitou-se aleatoriamente parcelas amostrais de 1,68 ha onde foram coletados: amostras de solo e invertebrados associados à interface solo – serapilheira por armadilhas de queda (Pitfall-Trap). Foi realizada nas áreas de estudo uma coleta concentrada no verão (02/2014) e inverno (09/2014) ao nível de ambiente (com presença e ausência de drenagem). Foram identificadas famílias e morfo-espécies de aranhas (Araneae) e besouros (Coleoptera). As análises multivariadas demonstraram que existe separação entre os ambientes estudados e quais foram as famílias e morfo-espécies que mais se associaram com cada variável analisada. A redução da acidez, aumento ou diminuição do teor de C.O e Al e elevada disponibilidade de macronutrientes (P, K,Ca e Mg), foram as variáveis edafo-ambientais que mais preservaram interação com o aumento ou detrimento dos organismos, explicando sua distribuição nos ambientes e estações do ano. O índice de diversidade de Shannon (H), a riqueza e diversidade dos organismos coletados foram influenciados pela alternância de ambientes e estações do ano. Os organismos se comportaram como indicadores ecológicos sensíveis às alterações edafo-ambientais na Mata Atlântica.
Angiogenic Factor Estimation as a Warning Sign of Preeclampsia-Related Peripartum Morbidity Among Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Lopes Perdigao Joana , Chinthala Sireesha , Mueller Ariel , Minhas Ruby , Ramadan Hadi , Nasim Rabab , Naseem Heba , Young Danielle , Shahul Sana , Chan Siaw Li , Yeo Kiang-Teck J. , Rana Sarosh
Published: February 2019

Preeclampsia-related morbidity and mortality is rising predominantly because of delayed identification of patients at risk for preeclampsia with severe features and associated complications. This study explored the association between angiogenic markers (sFlt1 [soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1]) and PlGF [placental growth factor]) and preeclampsia-related peripartum complications. Normotensive women or those with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were enrolled. Blood samples were collected within 96 hours before delivery, and angiogenic markers were measured on an automated platform. Our study included 681 women, 375 of which had hypertensive disorders. Of these, 127 (33.9%) had severe preeclampsia, and 71.4% were black. Compared with normotensive women, women with severe preeclampsia had higher levels of sFlt1 (9372.5 versus 2857.0 pg/mL;
P
<0.0001), lower PlGF (51.0 versus 212.0 pg/mL;
P
<0.0001), and a high sFlt1/PlGF (212.0 versus 14.0; all
P
<0.0001). A similar trend in sFlt1, PlGF, and sFlt1/PlGF was found in those women with complications secondary to preeclampsia (all
P
<0.001). The highest tertile of sFlt1/PlGF was strongly associated with severe preeclampsia in a multivariable analysis. Among patients with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, 340 (90.7%) developed postpartum hypertension, of which 50.4% had mild, and 40.3% had severe postpartum hypertension. The sFlt1/PlGF ratio was significantly higher for severe and mild postpartum hypertension compared with women with normal postpartum blood pressures (73.5, 46.0, and 13.0, respectively;
P
values<0.0001). Furthermore, the highest tertile of antepartum sFlt1/PlGF was associated with postpartum hypertension (
P
=0.004). This study demonstrates a significant association between an abnormal angiogenic profile before delivery and severe preeclampsia and peripartum complications.
Funmilayo Ranco: Feminist Self-Assertion in Late-20th-Century Yoruba Traveling Theatre
Authors: Udengwu Ngozi
Published: February 2019

Funmilayo Ranco was a radical self-proclaimed feminist in 1960s Nigeria. As the only female actor-manager in the professional Yoruba traveling theatre, she upended the conventions of the popular form’s opening and closing glee entertainments to assert her complex gender expression.
Intersections between Corporeal Performance and Distributed Digital Audiences: Casey Jenkins and Remediated Artistic Practice
Authors: Barbour Kim , Mansfield Lisa
Published: February 2019

Juxtaposed against the negative dialectics of digital culture and social media, Casey Jenkins’s performance practice demonstrates the artist’s agency to transmute the destructive potential of digital remediation and social media commentary into a productive and constructive internal and external artistic dialogue, moving beyond the traditional art historical discourse toward a creative practice that embraces the unwieldy culture of the internet.
The Hijra Clap in Neoliberal Hands: Performing Trans Rights in Pakistan
Authors: Pamment Claire
Published: February 2019

#ChangeTheClap, a 2017 social media campaign aimed at combatting stigma towards Pakistan’s marginalized transgender communities, draws upon the distinctive hijra clap, even as it erases the embodied clapping hijra. The changing hands of the clap across almost a decade of activism gestures to the neoliberal limits of the trans rights movement in Pakistan and attempts to contain hijra identity.
A taxonomic study of Scleria subgenus Hypoporum: synonymy, typification and a new identification key
Authors: BAUTERS K. , LARRIDON I. , GOETGHEBEUR P.
Published: February 2019

For Scleria subgen. Hypoporum, 214 species and infraspecific names were published since the first publication of the name Scleria. These names represent 76 accepted taxa, representing 72 species of Scleria subgen. Hypoporum. Herbarium material of all recognised species was studied, including the type material if available. Synonymy and typification in Scleria subgen. Hypoporum was thoroughly investigated. Fifty-six lectotypes and two neotypes were newly assigned. An identification key for the subgenus is presented. For each species, synonymy and types are cited, a description is provided including information on distribution, habitat and a list of additional specimens examined. Taxonomical difficulties and remarkable observations are added in notes. A useful overview of all published names linking them to their accepted taxon is added.