bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral Fosfomycin for the Treatment of Acute and Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhanel George G. , Zhanel Michael A. , Karlowsky James A.
Published: January 2018

Acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis in outpatients is commonly treated with oral fluoroquinolones; however, the worldwide dissemination of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli has resulted in therapeutic failures with fluoroquinolones. We reviewed the literature regarding the use of oral fosfomycin in the treatment of acute and chronic prostatitis caused by MDR E. coli. All English-language references on PubMed from 1986 to June 2017, inclusive, were reviewed from the search “fosfomycin prostatitis.” Fosfomycin demonstrates potent in vitro activity against a variety of antimicrobial-resistant E. coli genotypes/phenotypes including ciprofloxacin-resistant, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole-resistant, extended-spectrum β-lactamase- (ESBL-) producing, and MDR isolates. Fosfomycin attains therapeutic concentrations (≥4 μg/g) in uninflamed prostatic tissue and maintains a high prostate/plasma ratio up to 17 hours after oral administration. Oral fosfomycin’s clinical cure rates in the treatment of bacterial prostatitis caused by antimicrobial-resistant E. coli ranged from 50 to 77% with microbiological eradication rates of >50%. An oral regimen of fosfomycin tromethamine of 3 g·q 24 h for one week followed by 3 g·q 48 h for a total treatment duration of 6–12 weeks appeared to be effective. Oral fosfomycin may represent an efficacious and safe treatment for acute and chronic prostatitis caused by MDR E. coli.
SEISGAMA: A Free C# Based Seismic Data Processing Software Platform
Authors: Irnaka Theodosius Marwan , Wahyudi Wahyudi , Hartantyo Eddy , Mufaqih Adien Akhmad , Anggraini Ade , Suryanto Wiwit
Published: January 2018

Seismic reflection is one of the most popular methods in geophysical prospecting. Nevertheless, obtaining high resolution and accurate results requires a sophisticated processing stage. There are many open-source seismic reflection data processing software programs available; however, they often use a high-level programming language that decreases its overall performance, lacks intuitive user-interfaces, and is limited to a small set of tasks. These shortcomings reveal the need to develop new software using a programming language that is natively supported by Windows® operating systems, which uses a relatively medium-level programming language (such as C#) and can be enhanced by an intuitive user interface. SEISGAMA was designed to address this need and employs a modular concept, where each processing group is combined into one module to ensure continuous and easy development and documentation. SEISGAMA can perform basic seismic reflection processes. This ability is very useful, especially for educational purposes or during a quality control process (in the acquisition stage). Those processes can be easily carried out by users via specific menus on SEISGAMA’s main user interface. SEISGAMA has been tested, and its results have been verified using available theoretical frameworks and by comparison to similar commercial software.
Identification of Common Genes Refers to Colorectal Carcinogenesis with Paired Cancer and Noncancer Samples
Authors: Zhang Lihua , Yang Yonglong , Cheng Lin , Cheng Yu , Zhou Hong-Hao , Tan Zhi-Rong
Published: January 2018

Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumor which harmed human beings’ health. The aim of this study was to explore common biomarkers associated with colorectal carcinogenesis in paired cancer and noncancer samples. At first, fifty-nine pairs of colorectal cancer and noncancer samples from three gene expression datasets were collected and analyzed. Then, 181 upregulation and 282 downregulation common differential expression genes (DEGs) were found. Next, functional annotation was performed in the DAVID database with the DEGs. Finally, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was conducted to verify the analyses in sixteen colorectal cancer and individual-matched adjacent mucosa samples. Real-time PCR showed that MCM2, RNASEH2A, and TOP2A were upregulated in colorectal cancer compared with adjacent mucosa samples (MCM2, P<0.001; RNASEH2A, P<0.001; TOP2A, P=0.001). These suggested that 463 DEGs might contribute to colorectal carcinogenesis.
An Experimental Investigation of Karanja Biodiesel Production in Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Harreh Dewi , Saleh A. A. , Reddy A. N. R. , Hamdan S.
Published: January 2018

The application of nonedible feedstock for the production of biodiesel has become an area of research interest among clean energy experts in the past few years. This research is aimed at the utilization of Pongamia pinnata (karanja), a nonedible feedstock from the state of Sarawak, Malaysia, to produce biodiesel to be known as crude karanja oil (CKO). A one-step transesterification process utilizing 7 : 1–10 : 1 wt% methanol (CH3OH) and 0.5–1.2 wt% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at 65°C for 1.5 hrs has been used for the biodiesel production yielding 84% conversion. The physiochemical properties of the CKO produced revealed that it conforms with EN14214 standards for brake power (BP), brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC), and brake thermal efficiency (BTE) as they are all noted be optimal at B40.
Differential Regulation of NF‐κB and Nrf2 by Bojungikki‐Tang Is Associated with Suppressing Lung Inflammation
Authors: Park Soo Ryun , Kim Kyun Ha , Kwun Min Jung , Lee Ji Yeon , Won Ran , Han Chang Woo , Choi Jun Yong , Joo Myungsoo
Published: January 2018

Bojungikki‐tang (BT), an Asian herbal remedy, has been prescribed to increase the vitality of debilitated patients. Since a compromised, weakened vitality often leads to illness, BT has been widely used to treat various diseases. However, little is known about the mechanism by which BT exerts its effect. Given that BT ameliorates inflammatory pulmonary diseases including acute lung injury (ALI), we investigated whether BT regulates the function of key inflammatory factors such as NF‐κB and Nrf2, contributing to suppressing inflammation. Results show that BT interrupted the nuclear localization of NF‐κB and suppressed the expression of the NF‐κB‐dependent genes in RAW 264.7 cells. In similar experiments, BT induced the nuclear localization of Nrf2 and the expression of the Nrf2‐dependent genes. In a lipopolysaccharide‐induced ALI mouse model, a single intratracheal administration of BT to mouse lungs ameliorated alveolar structure and suppressed the expression of proinflammatory cytokine genes and neutrophil infiltration to mouse lungs. Therefore, our findings suggest that suppression of NF‐κB and activation of Nrf2, by which BT suppresses inflammation, are ways for BT to exert its effect.
The EEG Activity during Binocular Depth Perception of 2D Images
Authors: Fazlyyyakhmatov Marsel , Zwezdochkina Nataly , Antipov Vladimir
Published: January 2018

The central brain functions underlying a stereoscopic vision were a subject of numerous studies investigating the cortical activity during binocular perception of depth. However, the stereo vision is less explored as a function promoting the cognitive processes of the brain. In this work, we investigated a cortical activity during the cognitive task consisting of binocular viewing of a false image which is observed when the eyes are refocused out of the random-dot stereogram plane (3D phenomenon). The power of cortical activity before and after the onset of the false image perception was assessed using the scull EEG recording. We found that during stereo perception of the false image the power of alpha-band activity decreased in the left parietal area and bilaterally in frontal areas of the cortex, while activity in beta-1, beta-2, and delta frequency bands remained to be unchanged. We assume that this suppression of alpha rhythm is presumably associated with increased attention necessary for refocusing the eyes at the plane of the false image.
Improving the Sensitivity of Humidity Sensor Based on Mach-Zehnder Interferometer Coated with a Methylcellulose
Authors: Huang Jun , Wang Bowen , Ni Kai
Published: January 2018

A novel humidity sensor based on Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) with the single-mode fiber (SMF) coated with methylcellulose (MC) is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The MZI consists of two waist enlarged structures. Such an all-fiber MZI incorporates an intermodal interference between the core mode and cladding modes. The MC is coated on the surface of the SMF. External humidity changes the refractive index of MC, causing the intensity changes of the interference pattern. The proposed sensor is linearly responsive to refractive humidity (RH) within the range from 45% to 85% RH, with sensitivity of 0.094 dB/%RH. Moreover the insensitivity of the fiber to the temperature makes this structure more suitable for practical measurement.
Four Plasma Glucose and Insulin Responses to a 75 g OGTT in Healthy Young Japanese Women
Authors: Takahashi Kei , Nakamura Hidetaka , Sato Hiroshi , Matsuda Hideto , Takada Kazuo , Tsuji Tomiko
Published: January 2018

The incidence of diabetes has been gradually increasing, not only in middle-aged individuals but also in young individuals. However, insulin and glucose patterns have not been investigated in apparently healthy young individuals, as they are typically grouped as controls. In this study, we investigated and classified glucose and insulin patterns in healthy young women. Sixty-two nonobese women without metabolic disease were recruited. The subjects underwent a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), physical measurements, and a biochemical examination. Two subjects displayed impaired glucose tolerance. The 62 subjects were categorized into four patterns by plasma glucose and insulin peak time during OGTT: normal type (n=39), insulin-late type (n=11), insulin- and glucose-late type (n=7), and insulin-very late type (n=5). OGTT glucose and insulin levels at all time points, insulinogenic index, HOMA-IR, and glucose area under the curve (AUC) significantly differed among the four groups. However, insulin AUC did not significantly differ. We did not detect significant differences in body condition or biochemical measurements. Our study demonstrated that some healthy young individuals might have delayed insulin secretion by OGTT. Early detection of altered glucose metabolism might be helpful to improve lifestyle choices and prevent progression to diabetes.
Bacterial Community of the Rice Floodwater Using Cultivation-Independent Approaches
Authors: Pittol Michele , Scully Erin , Miller Daniel , Durso Lisa , Mariana Fiuza Lidia , Valiati Victor Hugo
Published: January 2018

In agricultural systems, interactions between plants and microorganisms are important to maintaining production and profitability. In this study, bacterial communities in floodwaters of rice fields were monitored during the vegetative and reproductive stages of rice plant development using 16S amplicon sequencing. The study was conducted in the south of Brazil, during the crop years 2011/12 and 2012/13. Comparative analyses showed strong differences between the communities of floodwaters associated with the two developmental stages. During the vegetative stage, 1551 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were detected, while less than half that number (603) were identified in the reproductive stage. The higher bacterial richness observed in floodwater collected during the vegetative stage may have been favored by the higher concentration of nutrients, such as potassium, due to rhizodeposition and fertilizer application. Eighteen bacterial phyla were identified in both samples. Both communities were dominated by Gammaproteobacteria. In the vegetative stage, Alphaproteobacteria and Betaproteobacteria were more abundant and, in contrast, Bacilli and Clostridia were the more dominant classes in the reproductive stage. The major bacterial taxa identified have been previously identified as important colonizers of rice fields. The richness and composition of bacterial communities over cultivation time may contribute to the sustainability of the crop.
Effect of N‐Acetylcysteine on Antioxidant Defense, Oxidative Modification, and Salivary Gland Function in a Rat Model of Insulin Resistance
Authors: Żukowski Piotr , Maciejczyk Mateusz , Matczuk Jan , Kurek Krzysztof , Waszkiel Danuta , Żendzian-Piotrowska Małgorzata , Zalewska Anna
Published: January 2018

Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the salivary gland dysfunction in insulin resistance (IR). It is not surprising that new substances are constantly being sought that will protect against the harmful effects of IR in the oral cavity environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) on oxidative stress and secretory function of salivary glands in a rat model of insulin resistance. Rats were divided into 4 groups: C—normal diet, C + NAC—normal diet + NAC, HFD—high‐fat diet, and HFD + NAC. We have demonstrated that NAC elevated enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase) and nonenzymatic antioxidants (reduced glutathione (GSH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAS)) in the parotid glands of HFD + NAC rats, while in the submandibular glands increased only GSH and TAS levels. NAC protects against oxidative damage only in the parotid glands and increased stimulated salivary secretion; however, it does not increase the protein secretion in the both salivary glands. Summarizing, NAC supplementation prevents the decrease of stimulated saliva secretion, seen in the HFD rats affected. NAC improves the antioxidative capacity of the both glands and protects against oxidative damage to the parotid glands of IR rats.
Realization of N-Type Semiconducting of Phosphorene through Surface Metal Doping and Work Function Study
Authors: Sun Haocheng , Shang Yuan , Yang Yanmei , Guo Meng
Published: January 2018

Phosphorene becomes an important member of the layered nanomaterials since its discovery for the fabrication of nanodevices. In the experiments, pristine phosphorene shows p-type semiconducting with no exception. To reach its full capability, n-type semiconducting is a necessity. Here, we report the electronic structure engineering of phosphorene by surface metal atom doping. Five metal elements, Cu, Ag, Au, Li, and Na, have been considered which could form stable adsorption on phosphorene. These elements show patterns in their electron configuration with one valence electron in their outermost s-orbital. Among three group 11 elements, Cu can induce n-type degenerate semiconducting, while Ag and Au can only introduce localized impurity states. The distinct ability of Cu, compared to Ag and Au, is mainly attributed to the electronegativity. Cu has smaller electronegativity and thus denotes its electron to phosphorene, upshifting the Fermi level towards conduction band, resulting in n-type semiconducting. Ag and Au have larger electronegativity and hardly transfer electrons to phosphorene. Parallel studies of Li and Na doping support these findings. In addition, Cu doping effectively regulates the work function of phosphorene, which gradually decreases upon increasing Cu concentration. It is also interesting that Au can hardly change the work function of phosphorene.
Early Factors Associated with the Development of Chronic Pain in Trauma Patients
Authors: Daoust Raoul , Paquet Jean , Moore Lynne , Émond Marcel , Gosselin Sophie , Lavigne Gilles , Choinière Manon , Boulanger Aline , Mac-Thiong Jean-Marc , Chauny Jean-Marc
Published: January 2018

Objective. To identify factors, available at the time of trauma admission, associated with the development of chronic pain to allow testing of preventive approaches.Methods. In a retrospective observational cohort study, we included all patients ≥ 18 years old admitted for injury in 57 adult trauma centers in the province of Quebec (Canada) between 2004 and 2014. Chronic pain was defined as follows: treated in a chronic pain clinic, diagnosed with chronic pain, or received at least 2 prescriptions of chronic pain medications 3 to 12 months postinjury.Results. A total of 95,134 patients were retained for analysis. Mean age was 59.8 years (±21.7), and 52% were men. The causes of trauma were falls (63%) and motor vehicle accidents (22%). We identified 14,518 patients (15.3%; 95% CI: 15.1–15.5) who developed chronic pain. After controlling for confounding factors, the variables associated with chronic pain were spinal cord injury (OR = 3.9; 95% CI: 3.4–4.6), disc-vertebra trauma (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.5–1.7), history of alcoholism (OR = 1.4; 95% CI: 1.2–1.7), history of anxiety (OR = 1.4; 95% CI: 1.2–1.5), history of depression (OR = 1.3; 95% CI: 1.1–1.4), and being female (OR = 1.3; 95% CI: 1.2–1.3). The area under the receiving operating characteristic curve derived from the model was 0.80.Conclusions. We identified risk factors present on hospital admission that can predict trauma patients who will develop chronic pain. These factors should be prospectively validated.
Heme Oxygenase-1 Activity as a Correlate to Exercise-Mediated Amelioration of Cognitive Decline and Neuropathological Alterations in an Aging Rat Model of Dementia
Authors: Kurucz Andrea , Bombicz Mariann , Kiss Rita , Priksz Dániel , Varga Balázs , Hortobágyi Tibor , Trencsényi György , Szabó Renáta , Pósa Anikó , Gesztelyi Rudolf , Szilvássy Zoltán , Juhász Béla
Published: January 2018

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with cognitive impairment. Physical exercise has long been proven to be beneficial in the disorder. The present study was designed to examine the effect of voluntary exercise on spatial memory, imaging, and pathological abnormalities. Particular focus has been given to the role of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1)—an important cellular cytoprotectant in preserving mental acuity—using an aging rat model of dementia. Male and female Wistar rats were segregated into six groups—namely, (i) aged sedentary (control) females (ASF, n=8); (ii) aged sedentary (control) males (ASM, n=8); (iii) aged running females (ARF, n=8); (iv) aged running males (ARM, n=8); (v) young control females (YCF, n=8); and (vi) young control males (YCM, n=8). Rats in the ARF and ARM groups had free access to a standardized inbuilt running wheel during the 3-month evaluation period. Spatial memory was investigated using the Morris Water Test, imaging and pathological alterations were assessed using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and histopathological examinations (H&E, Congo red staining), respectively, and HO-1 enzyme activity assays were also conducted. The outcomes suggest that voluntary physical exercise mitigates impaired spatial memory and neuropathological changes exhibited by the aging sedentary group, via elevated HO-1 activity, contributing to the antioxidant capacity in the aging brain.
Brief Overview of a Decade of Genome-Wide Association Studies on Primary Hypertension
Authors: Azam Afifah Binti , Azizan Elena Aisha Binti
Published: January 2018

Primary hypertension is widely believed to be a complex polygenic disorder with the manifestation influenced by the interactions of genomic and environmental factors making identification of susceptibility genes a major challenge. With major advancement in high-throughput genotyping technology, genome-wide association study (GWAS) has become a powerful tool for researchers studying genetically complex diseases. GWASs work through revealing links between DNA sequence variation and a disease or trait with biomedical importance. The human genome is a very long DNA sequence which consists of billions of nucleotides arranged in a unique way. A single base-pair change in the DNA sequence is known as a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). With the help of modern genotyping techniques such as chip-based genotyping arrays, thousands of SNPs can be genotyped easily. Large-scale GWASs, in which more than half a million of common SNPs are genotyped and analyzed for disease association in hundreds of thousands of cases and controls, have been broadly successful in identifying SNPs associated with heart diseases, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and psychiatric disorders. It is however still debatable whether GWAS is the best approach for hypertension. The following is a brief overview on the outcomes of a decade of GWASs on primary hypertension.
Different Spectrophotometric Methods for Simultaneous Determination of Trelagliptin and Its Acid Degradation Product
Authors: Mowaka Shereen , Ayoub Bassam M. , Hassan Mostafa A. , Zaghary Wafaa A.
Published: January 2018

New spectrophotometric and chemometric methods were carried out for the simultaneous assay of trelagliptin (TRG) and its acid degradation product (TAD) and applied successfully as a stability indicating assay to recently approved Zafatek® tablets. TAD was monitored using TLC to ensure complete degradation. Furthermore, HPLC was used to confirm dealing with one major acid degradation product. The proposed methods were developed by manipulating zero-order, first-derivative, and ratio spectra of TRG and TAD using simultaneous equation, first-derivative, and mean-centering methods, respectively. Using Spectra Manager II and Minitab v.14 software, the absorbance at 274 nm–260.4 nm, amplitudes at 260.4 nm–274.0 nm, and mean-centered values at 287.6 nm–257.2 nm were measured against methanol as a blank for TRG and TAD, respectively. Linearity and the other validation parameters were acceptable at concentration ranges of 5–50 μg/mL and 2.5–25 μg/mL for TRG and TAD, respectively. Using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), the optimized methods were compared and proved to be accurate for the simultaneous assay of TRG and TAD.
Choriocapillaris Loss in Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Moreira-Neto Carlos A. , Moult Eric M. , Fujimoto James G. , Waheed Nadia K. , Ferrara Daniela
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on choriocapillaris loss in advanced age macular degeneration (AMD). Several histopathological studies in animal models and human eyes had showed that the choriocapillaris density decreases with age. However, the role of choriocapillaris loss is still unclear in AMD and its advanced forms, either choroidal neovascularization (CNV) or geographic atrophy (GA). Some authors have hypothesized that choriocapillaris loss might precede overt retinal pigment epithelium atrophy. Others have hypothesized that deposition of complement complexes on and around the choriocapillaris could be related to the tissue loss observed in early AMD. The development of imaging modalities, such as optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), have led to a better understanding of underlying physiopathological mechanisms in AMD. OCTA showed atrophy of choriocapillaris underneath and beyond the region of photoreceptors and RPE loss, in agreement with previous histopathologic studies. The evolution of OCTA technology suggests that CNV seems to originate from regions of severe choriocapillaris alteration. Significant progress has been made in the understanding of development and progression of GA and CNV. In vivo investigation of the choriocapillaris using OCTA may lead to new insights related to underlying disease mechanisms in AMD.
Glycyl tRNA Synthetase (GARS) Gene Variant Causes Distal Hereditary Motor Neuropathy V
Authors: Chung Peter , Northrup Hope , Azmath Misbah , Mosquera Ricardo A. , Moody Shade , Yadav Aravind
Published: January 2018

Distal hereditary motor neuropathies (dHMN) are a rare heterogeneous group of inherited disorders specifically affecting the motor axons, leading to distal limb neurogenic muscular atrophy. The GARS gene has been identified as a causative gene responsible for clinical features of dHMN type V in families from different ethnic origins and backgrounds. We present the first cohort of family members of Nigerian descent with a novel heterozygous p.L272R variant on the GARS gene. We postulate that this variant is the cause of dHMN-V in this family, leading to variable phenotypical expressions that are earlier than reported in previous cases. The exact cause for the observed clinical heterogeneity within the family is unknown. One explanation is that there are modifier genes that affect the phenotype. These cases highlight the possibility of considering pathogenic variants in the GARS gene as a potential cause of early onset axonal polyneuropathy with atypical presentation.
Positive Association of Metabolic Syndrome with a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism of Syndecan-3 (rs2282440) in the Taiwanese Population
Authors: Chang Betty Chia-Chen , Hwang Lee-Ching , Huang Wei-Hsin
Published: January 2018

Background/Purpose. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) poses a major public health burden on the general population worldwide. Syndecan-3 (SDC3), a heparin sulfate proteoglycan, had been found by previous studies to be linked with energy balance and obesity, but its association with MetS is not known. The objective of this study is to investigate whether SDC3 polymorphism (rs2282440) is associated with MetS in the Taiwanese population. Methods. Genotypes of SDC3 polymorphism (rs2282440) were analyzed in 545 Taiwanese adult subjects, of which 154 subjects had MetS. Results. Subjects with SDC3 rs2282440 TT homozygote had higher frequency of MetS than those with CC or CT genotype (p=0.0217). SDC3 rs2282440 TT homozygote had a 1.96-fold risk of being obese and 1.8-fold risk of having MetS (with CC genotype as reference). As for the individual components of MetS, subjects with SDC3 rs2282440 TT homozygote were more likely to have large waist circumference and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR = 1.75 and OR = 1.84, resp.). Conclusion. SDC3 rs2282440 polymorphism is positively associated with MetS in the Taiwanese population. Further investigation is needed to see if this association is mediated by mere adiposity or SDC3 polymorphism is also linked with other components of MetS such as lipid metabolism.
Recovery of Chronic Stress-Triggered Changes of Hippocampal Glutamatergic Transmission
Authors: Lin Min , Hou Gonglin , Zhao Ying , Yuan Ti-Fei
Published: January 2018

Chronic stress results in neurochemical, physiological, immune, molecular, cellular, and structural changes in the brain and often dampens the cognition. The hippocampus has been one major focus in studying the stress responsivity and neural mechanisms underlying depression. Both acute and chronic stress stimuli lead to dynamic changes in excitatory transmission in the hippocampus. The present study examined the potential effects of spontaneous recovery after chronic stress on spatial memory function and glutamatergic transmission in the hippocampus. The results showed that chronic unpredicted mild stress transiently increased AMPA receptor GluA2/3 subunit expression, together with elevated PICK-1 protein expression. Spontaneous recovery restored the behavioral deficits in Barnes maze test, as well as the glutamate receptor expression changes. In conclusion, spontaneous recovery acts as an important mechanism in system homeostasis.
Dystrophic Calcifications in the Breast from Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Lee Kyoung Min , Lee Jee Eun , Cha Eun Suk , Chung Jin , Kim Jeoung Hyun , Moon Byung In
Published: January 2018

Background: Soft tissue calcification is common in patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism who have received long-term treatment with hemodialysis. However, calcifications in the breast parenchyma are not common. We report a case of a woman with dystrophic breast calcifications from secondary hyperparathyroidism. Case Report: A 65-year-old woman presented with a palpable mass in her right breast which she had discovered 1 month ago. She had a medical history of end-stage renal disease. Mammography and ultrasound revealed large dystrophic calcifications in both breasts. Core needle biopsy was performed for calcifications in the right breast, and the pathologic diagnosis was dystrophic calcification in the stroma from secondary hyperparathyroidism. Conclusion: Reviewing our case will contribute to a fast and correct diagnosis in patients with dystrophic breast calcifications and lab results indicating secondary hyperparathyroidism, and will help discriminate these benign lesions from malignancies.
Predictors for Mortality after Mechanical Thrombectomy of Acute Basilar Artery Occlusion
Authors: Gory Benjamin , Mazighi Mikael , Labreuche Julien , Blanc Raphael , Piotin Michel , Turjman Francis , Lapergue Bertrand ,   ETIS (Endovascular Treatment in Ischemic Stroke) Investigators
Published: January 2018

Background: Modern endovascular thrombectomy (MET), using stent retrievers or large-bore distal aspiration catheters in stroke patients with acute basilar artery occlusion (BAO), is routinely performed to date. However, more than 35% of BAO patients treated with MET die within 90 days despite high recanalization rates. The purpose of this study is to investigate the parameters associated with 90-day mortality in patients with BAO after MET. Methods: We analyzed 117 consecutive BAO patients included in the Endovascular Treatment in Ischemic Stroke prospective clinical registry of consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients treated with MET (60 patients [51.3%] treated with a stent retriever as first-line technique) between March 2010 and April 2017. Successful recanalization was defined as modified thrombolysis In cerebral infarction scores 2b-3 at the end of MET, and mortality was defined as modified Rankin Scale 6 at 90 days. Associations of baseline characteristics (patient and treatment characteristics) and intermediate outcomes (recanalization, complications) with 90-day mortality were investigated in univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: Overall successful recanalization rate was 79.5, and 41.9% (95% CI 32.8–51.0%) of patients died within 90 days after MET. Patients with successful recanalization had a lower mortality rate (32.9 vs. 74.4%; p < 0.001). Failure of successful recanalization was an independent predictor of mortality (OR 5.1; 95% CI 1.34–19.33). In multivariate analysis, age ≥60 years (OR 6.37; 95% CI 1.74–23.31), admission National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) ≥13 (OR 4.62; 95% CI 1.42–15.03), lower posterior circulation-Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (pc-ASPECTS; OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.19–2.44), use of antithrombotic medication prior to stroke onset (OR 3.38; 95% CI 1.03–11.08), absence of intravenous thrombolysis (OR 3.36; 95% CI 1.12–10.03), and angioplasty/stenting of the basilar artery (OR 4.71; 95% CI 1.34–16.54) were independent predictors for mortality after MET. Conclusions: Failure of successful recanalization was a strong predictor for mortality. In the setting of recanalization, age, admission NIHSS, pc-ASPECTS, absence of intravenous thrombolysis, and angioplasty/stenting of the basilar artery were also independent predictors for mortality after MET of BAO patients.
Effects of MicroRNA-592-5p on Hippocampal Neuron Injury Following Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Damage in Neonatal Mice - Involvement of PGD2/DP and PTGDR
Authors: Sun Li-Qun , Guo Gong-Liang , Zhang Sai , Yang Li-Li 
Published: January 2018

Background/Aims: This study aimed to explore the effect of microRNA-592-5p (miR-592-5p) on hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD)-induced hippocampal neuronal injury in a neonatal mouse model relative to the involvement of one target gene, PTGDR, and the PGD2/ DP signaling pathway. Methods: A total of 30 neonatal mice aged 7 days were randomly selected to establish an HIBD mouse model. Hippocampal neuronal cells were transfected into a control group, a blank group, a negative control (NC) group, an miR-592-5p mimics group, an miR-592-5p inhibitors group, an siRNA-PTGDR group and an miR-592-5p inhibitors + siRNA-PTGDR group. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot analyses were performed to detect the expression levels of miR-592-5p, PTGDR, DP2, Bcl-2 and Bax in tissues and cells. Cell proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by MTT assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Results: The expression levels of miR-592-5p and Bcl-2 decreased, while the expression levels of PTGDR, DP2 and Bax increased in the HIBD group. PTGDR is a target gene of miR-592-2p. Compared with the NC and blank groups, the expression levels of PTGDR, DP2 and Bax decreased, while the expression levels of miR-592-5p and Bcl-2 increased in the miR-592-5p mimics group. The siRNA-PTGDR group showed the same trend as that observed in the miR-592-5p mimics group, except with no difference in miR-592-5p expression. The miR-592-5p inhibitors group showed an opposite gene expression trend compared to that in the miR-592-5p mimics group. The S phase of the cell cycle was prolonged, the G1 phase was reduced, proliferation was increased, and the apoptosis rate was decreased in the siRNA-PTGDR and miR-592-5p mimics groups. Opposite trends for cell cycle, proliferation and apoptosis were observed in the miR-592-5p inhibitors group. Conclusions: Our study suggests that miR-592-5p upregulation protects against hippocampal neuronal injury caused by HIBD by targeting PTGDR and inhibiting the PGD2/DP signaling pathway.
Oscilando entre a escrituração mercantil, os testemunhos e a arbitragem. A construção social das provas nos casos de falência no Brasil, em meados do século XIX
Authors: Sonkajärvi Hanna Helena
Published: January 2018

O Código de Comércio brasileiro entrou em vigor em 1850, mas a postura dos tribunais nos casos de falência não se modificou radicalmente. O procedimento judicial continuou sendo intensamente condicionado pelos atores locais e pelas ações na fase inicial do processo de falência (conciliação e arbitragem). Nessa situação, determinar o valor das dívidas de negociantes em falência e estabelecer evidências contra essas pessoas para poder provar uma “falência culposa” tornou-se uma tarefa extremamente complicada. Com base em alguns casos de falência na segunda metade do século XIX identificamos fatores que podem explicar porque os tribunais encontraram problemas em estabelecer provas na escrituração mercantil e como eles buscavam, então, chegar a uma decisão.
Da heresia à “caça às bruxas” no final da Idade Média ocidental
Authors: Ribeiro Felipe Augusto , Rangel João Guilherme Lisbôa
Published: January 2018

Resenha do livro: BOUREAU, Alain. Satã herético: o nascimento da demonologia na Europa medieval (1280-1330). Tradução de Igor Salomão Teixeira e revisão técnica de Néri de Barros Almeida. Campinas: Unicamp, 2016.
Uma história da British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society: a instituição que internacionalizou o antiescravismo britânico
Authors: Ré Henrique Antonio
Published: January 2018

Resenha do livro: HEARTFIELD, James. The British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society, 1838-1956. A History.
Historia de las justicias latinoamericanas durante los siglos XVI y XIX
Authors: Castro Valdebenito Hugo Jose
Published: January 2018

Resenha do Livro: FERNÁNDEZ, Macarena Cordero; CORRADI, Rafael Gaune; JERIA, Rodrigo Moreno (org.). Cultura legal y espacios de justicia en América. Siglos XVI-XIX. Santiago: Centro de Investigaciones Diego Barros Arana, Dibam 2017, 317 p.
Association of Progression of Carotid Artery Wall Volume and Recurrent Transient Ischemic Attack or Stroke
Authors: Lu Mingming , Peng Peng , Cui Yuanyuan , Qiao Huiyu , Li Dongye , Cai Jianming , Zhao Xihai
Published: January 2018

Background and Purpose—

This study aimed to investigate the association between carotid plaque progression and subsequent recurrent events using magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods—

Sixty-three symptomatic patients with ipsilateral carotid atherosclerotic stenosis (30%–69% stenosis) determined by ultrasound underwent first and second carotid artery magnetic resonance imaging for carotid artery at baseline and ≥6 months after the first scan, respectively. All the patients had clinical follow-up after the second magnetic resonance scan for ≤5 years until the onset of recurrent transient ischemic attack or stroke. Presence/absence of carotid plaque compositional features, particularly intraplaque hemorrhage and fibrous cap rupture was identified. The annual progression of carotid wall volume between 2 magnetic resonance scans was measured. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression was used to calculate the hazard ratio and corresponding 95% confidence interval of carotid plaque features in discriminating recurrent events. Receiver-operating-characteristic-curve analysis was conducted to determine the area-under-the-curve of carotid plaque features in predicting recurrent events.

Results—

Sixty-three patients (mean age: 66.5±10.0 years old; 54 males) were eligible for final statistics analysis. During a mean follow-up duration of 55.1±13.6 months, 14.3% of patients (n=9) experienced ipsilateral recurrent transient ischemic attack/stroke. The annual progression of carotid wall volume was significantly associated with recurrent events before (hazard ratio, 1.14 per 10 mm
3
; 95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.27;
P
=0.019) and after (hazard ratio, 1.19 per 10 mm3; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.37;
P
=0.022) adjusted for confounding factors. In discriminating the recurrence of transient ischemia attack/stroke, receiver–operator curve analysis indicated that combined with annual progression of wall volume, there was a significant incremental improvement in the area-under-the-curve of intraplaque hemorrhage (area-under-the-curve: 0.69–0.81) and fibrous cap rupture (area-under-the-curve: 0.73–0.84).

Conclusions—

The annual progression of carotid wall volume is independently associated with recurrent ischemic cerebrovascular events, and this measurement has added value for intraplaque hemorrhage and fibrous cap rupture in predicting future events.
Taxonomic revision of the Caribbean-endemic species of Wittmackia (Bromeliaceae)
Authors: AGUIRRE-SANTORO JULIÁN
Published: January 2018

A taxonomic revision of the 17 Caribbean-endemic species of Wittmackia (Bromeliaceae) is presented. This group is a monophyletic lineage previously circumscribed as Hohenbergia subg. Wittmackiopsis but later transferred to Wittmackia based on phylogenetic and morphological evidence. This taxonomic treatment includes a complete overview of the morphological variation of the species, their geographical distribution and habitat, and notes on their ecology and conservation. A taxonomic key for the identification of the species is provided. Finally, complete descriptions with comments on the taxonomy, geographic distribution and habitat are presented.
Andreaea barbarae (Andreaeaceae, Bryophytina), a new moss species from Lesotho
Authors: CERREJÓN CARLOS , MAGUILLA ENRIQUE , QUANDT DIETMAR , MUÑOZ JESÚS , LUCEÑO MODESTO
Published: January 2018

Specimens of Andreaea sect. Andreaea collected in Lesotho show morphological differences from the remaining Sub-Saharan Africa species in the group. Particularly, Lesotho specimens have much larger spores, a character diagnostic in the genus. Spore size also separates the Lesotho specimens from typical A. rupestris from the Northern Hemisphere. Consequently, we describe a new species from the highlands of Lesotho (Andreaea barbarae). Additionally, we present a taxonomic key to all accepted species of Andreaea sect. Andreaea in sub-Saharan Africa.
The Strategic Management of Government Affairs in Brussels
Authors: Coen David , Vannoni Matia
Published: January 2018

This article explores the strategic management of government affairs in companies active in the EU. The article relies on a unique large- N dataset on the functioning and staffing of EU government affairs. The analysis shows that companies delegate government affairs functions to in-house managers with specific competences, who stay in office for long periods and who have an extensive knowledge of the core competences of the company, thanks to their educational background and work experience in the private sector. These findings suggest that how companies strategically manage and staff government affairs in Brussels rests on the distinct structure of business–government relations in the EU, which are based on the exchange of technical information and the establishment of credibility and long-run trust arrangements.
Linking Teacher and Parent Ratings of Teacher-Nominated Gifted Elementary School Students to Each Other and to School Grades
Authors: Rothenbusch Sandra , Voss Thamar , Golle Jessika , Zettler Ingo
Published: January 2018

This study investigated teacher and parent ratings of teacher-nominated gifted elementary school students’ verbal abilities, mathematical abilities, deductive reasoning, creative thinking, and engagement, and connected these ratings to school grades. Teacher and parent ratings were compared with regard to accuracy levels and halo effects. Furthermore, this study explored the correlations between teacher and parent ratings and how they are related to school grades. The study was based on data from 572 elementary school students participating in an enrichment program. The results indicated the same accuracy levels for teachers and parents. However, teacher ratings were more strongly affected by halo effects than parent ratings. The correlations between teacher and parent ratings were small to medium. Both raters’ ratings were independently and positively associated with German grades when controlling for each other. Positive teacher or parent ratings of mathematical abilities and engagement buffered the relation between the other rater’s ratings and math grades.
A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Parental Perceptions of Childhood Separation Anxiety Disorder Symptoms and Likelihood to Seek Help
Authors: Nguyen Sarah-Anne , McAloon John
Published: January 2018

This study examined cross-cultural differences in parental interpretations of childhood separation anxiety disorder (SAD) symptoms and their subsequent likelihood to seek help or advice. It also assessed level of acculturation to Western society as a potential predictor of Asian parents’ judgments of perceived pathology and likelihood to seek help. A total of 108 Caucasian and Asian parents were presented with a vignette of a child displaying behaviors indicative of SAD and asked to rate their level of perceived pathology and likelihood to seek help. Results showed that Caucasian and Asian parents gave similar ratings of perceived pathology. However, Caucasian parents reported a greater likelihood to seek help or advice for SAD symptoms than Asian parents. Level of acculturation to Western society was not a statistically significant predictor of Asian parents’ perceptions and likelihood to seek help, above and beyond the variance explained by demographic factors and level of shame associated with help seeking. Although conclusions are discussed in light of methodological limitations, these preliminary findings highlight the importance of considering cultural factors when investigating children’s access to mental health services, especially when the presenting issue is SAD.
The Austin High School Girls’ Band of Chicago, Illinois: 1925–1956
Authors: Hash Phillip M.
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the history of the Austin High School (AHS) Girls’ Band (AHSGB) of Chicago, Illinois, which existed from 1925 to 1956. This research focused on the band’s (a) organization and leadership, (b) activities within the school and community, (c) relationship to the AHS Boys Band, and (d) efforts to challenge and support traditional gender roles of the early and mid-twentieth century. I also considered how the history of this group might provide historical context to lingering attitudes regarding female band musicians and conductors today. H. E. Nutt organized the AHSGB in fall 1925 at the request of female students and school administration. The ensemble operated similarly to the boys’ band in that it functioned on a military basis, performed as both a concert and marching unit, and competed among the boys at city band and solo contests. The AHSGB gradually moved away from the all-military approach beginning in the early 1940s and eventually assumed a more feminine image that aligned with society’s efforts to restore traditional gender roles following World War II. The AHSGB combined with the boys in the fall of 1956, which resulted in a steep decline in female participation.
The Impact on Mental Health of Losing an Only Child and the Influence of Social Support and Resilience
Authors: Cao Xiancai , Yang Chongming , Wang Dahua
Published: January 2018

The number of parents who have lost their only child (PLOCs) has increased annually with the implementation of the birth control policy in mainland China. This study aimed to investigate the mental health status of PLOCs and the influence of social support and resilience. Study 1 recruited 100 PLOCs and 88 nonbereaved parents, and compared differences in depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Study 2 investigated the influence of social support and resilience on the mental health of PLOCs via a mediating model. Results indicate that PLOCs reported more anxiety and depression symptoms than nonbereaved counterparts. Perceived close family support, objective support, and resilience negatively predicted anxiety and depression. In addition, perceived close family support was found to influence mental health via resilience. The current findings reveal that losing an only child has long-term negative impacts on the mental health of PLOCs. However, perceived close family support and objective support can protect their mental health either directly or indirectly via resilience.
Mothers’ Grief Experiences of Losing Their Only Child in the 2008 Sichuan Earthquake: A Qualitative Longitudinal Study
Authors: Fu Fang , Chen Lin , Sha Wei , Chan Cecilia L. W. , Chow Amy Y. M. , Lou Vivian W. Q.
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this study is to explore bereaved mothers’ 2-year experiences of losing their only child in the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. Taking an interpretative phenomenological approach, this study interviewed six bereaved mothers four times (6 months, 12 months, 18 months, and 24 months) in Dujiangyan area in Sichuan Province. The findings suggest that these mothers’ personal grief experiences evolved: initially, anger toward the cause of their children’s deaths, following despair of meaningless life, guilt and regret, and finally yearning. Although their yearning and missing ebbed after 2 years, these mothers still had unresolved grief. These mothers also faced strained marital relationships and additional pressure from social interactions. This study illuminates that these mothers’ personal grief experiences and their coping strategies corresponded to Chinese family and sociocultural context.
No Money, No Representation: A Case Study of Zeguo Town in China
Authors: Ye Jing
Published: January 2018

Authoritarian regimes rely on fiscal resources to build patronage networks. And so it is with China. Budget making is usually dominated by government leaders. However, some local governments in recent years have invited ordinary people to review budgets and even to determine parts of budgets. Why would local leaders make themselves accountable to their constituencies in an authoritarian setting? Why would local governments in China tie their own hands? Using detailed description of a township government, this article argues that fiscal affluence based on land is an important factor for local governments in launching fiscal reform. Richer areas have become more fiscally accountable by opening up new discussion and encouraging citizen participation.