bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of the coronary sinus reducer upon left ventricular function in patients with refractory angina pectoris
Authors: Tzanis Georgios , Palmisano Anna , Gallone Guglielmo , Ponticelli Francesco , Baldetti Luca , Esposito Antonio , Colombo Antonio , Giannini Francesco
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of coronary sinus (CS) Reducer implantation upon left ventricular (LV) function.

Background

CS Reducer implantation is associated with symptomatic relief in patients with refractory angina. The effects of the device upon left ventricular function remains unknown.

Methods

Prior to device implantation and at 4‐months, resting ventricular volumes and function were measured using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Stress CMR was performed to extract quantitative indices of myocardial perfusion (myocardial perfusion reserve index‐MPRI).

Results

Nineteen patients (18 males, 66.0 [IQR 56.0–77.0] years), underwent successful Reducer implantation. Sixteen (84%) patients improved by at least 1 CCS class. Four months after Reducer implantation, we noticed a significant improvement in LV ejection fraction (LVEF) (61 [IQR 47–71] to 66 [IQR 57–72] %; p = .009), a reduction in LV end‐diastolic volume (LVEDV)/Body surface area (BSA) (65.7 [IQR 57.4–89.6] to 64.7 [IQR 53.7–74.1] mL/m2; p = .036) and a reduction in LV end‐systolic volume (LVESV)/BSA (28.7 [IQR 18.6–38.8] to 20.0 [IQR 15.0–31.4] mL/m2; p = .007). Patients with reduced EF (EF < 50%, n = 6) presented a greater increase of EF at follow up compared to patients with preserved EF (11.3 [IQR 6.5–54.5] vs. 3.8 [IQR 0.6–9.1] %; p = .029). The observed decrease in LVESV/BSA was greater in patients with reduced EF (23.6 [IQR 11.6–33.8] vs. 4.2 [IQR −2.0 to 8.4] mL/m2; p = .005). A significant increase in transmural MPRI was observed 4 months after Reducer implantation (p < .011).

Conclusions

CS Reducer improved angina symptoms and improved left ventricular function. The improvement was pronounced in the subgroup of patients with reduced ejection fraction. Myocardial perfusion improvement could represent the underlying mechanism for the observed benefits.
Rare anatomic variation: Nasopharyngeal middle turbinate
Authors: Lechien Jérôme R. , Rodriguez Alexandra , Kampouridis Stelianos , Horoi Mihaela
Published: August 2019

Nasopharyngeal middle turbinate may be not systematically associated with recurrent chronic rhinosinusitis and could be indolent.
Adsorption of C6–C8Aromatics over Ba‐Exchanged Zeolite X at High Temperature
Authors: Shi Qian , Gonçalves Jonathan C. , Ferreira Alexandre F. P. , Rodrigues Alírio E.
Published: August 2019

The adsorption of C6–C8aromatics was investigated at higher temperatures than normally used in the industry in the absence of water to assess the adsorption equilibrium properties under conditions that can be suitable for a simulated moving‐bed reactor for the production ofp‐xylene. Batch experiments were conducted on a dry Ba‐exchanged zeolite X at various temperatures in the liquid phase. Pseudo‐single‐component adsorption equilibrium isotherms from binary mixtures withi‐octane were obtained based on the adsorbed amount with different initial concentrations. The Langmuir model was applied to describe the adsorption equilibrium data. The estimated parameters predicted very well the equilibrium in the adsorbent.
A Comparative Study on HCN Polymers Synthesized by Polymerization of NH4CN or Diaminomaleonitrile in Aqueous Media: New Perspectives for Prebiotic Chemistry and Materials Science
Authors: Ruiz‐Bermejo Marta , de la Fuente José L. , Carretero‐González Javier , García‐Fernández Luis , Aguilar M. Rosa
Published: August 2019

HCN polymers are a group of complex and heterogeneous substances that are widely known in the fields of astrobiology and prebiotic chemistry. In addition, they have recently received considerable attention as potential functional material coatings. However, the real nature and pathways of formation of HCN polymers remain open questions. It is well established that the tuning of macromolecular structures determines the properties and practical applications of a polymeric material. Herein, different synthetic conditions were explored for the production of HCN polymers from NH4CN or diaminomaleonitrile in aqueous media with different concentrations of the starting reactants and several reaction times. By using a systematic methodology, both series of polymers were shown to exhibit similar, but not identical, spectroscopic and thermal fingerprints, which resulted in a clear differentiation of their morphological and electrochemical properties. New macrostructures are proposed for HCN polymers, and promising insights are discussed for prebiotic chemistry and materials science on the basis of the experimental results.
Excited‐State Symmetry Breaking in an Aza‐Nanographene Dye
Authors: Bardi Brunella , Krzeszewski Maciej , Gryko Daniel T. , Painelli Anna , Terenziani Francesca
Published: August 2019

The photophysics of a structurally unique aza‐analogue of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons characterized by 12 conjugated rings and a curved architecture was studied in detail. The combined experimental and computational investigation reveals that the lowest excited state has charge‐transfer character, in spite of the absence of any peripheral electron‐withdrawing groups. The exceptionally electron‐rich core comprised of two fused pyrrole rings is responsible for it. The observed strong solvatofluorochromism is related to symmetry breaking occurring in the emitting excited state, leading to a significant dipole moment (13.5 D) in the relaxed excited state. The anomalously small fluorescence anisotropy of this molecule, which is qualitatively different from what is observed in standard quadrupolar dyes, is explained as due to the presence of excited states that are close in energy but have different polarization directions.
Effect of phase maldistribution on performance of two‐phase catalytic monolith reactor and its comparison with trickle bed reactor
Authors: Roy Shaibal , Kamalanathan Premkumar , Lehner Peter , Turek Thomas , Al‐Dahhan Muthanna
Published: August 2019

Monolith reactors are widely considered as an alternative to the conventional trickle bed reactor. For the commercial deployment of monolith reactors, comparative performance studies are required. Reliable comparative and performance studies require a detailed understanding of the effect of phase distribution/maldistribution on the performance studies. In this work, performance and comparative studies were carried out in a relatively large column that was 4.8 cm in diameter. Experiments were performed in the same conditions that were used in studies for which phase distribution data were available. Since the properties of the catalyst used were different in both the reactors, the apparent kinetics were studied to facilitate the comparison. The hydrogenation of alpha‐methyl styrene (AMS) was used as a test reaction. From the performance studies, it was found that the effect of maldistribution on the performance was stronger than the catalyst availability. From the comparative studies, it was found that the monolith reactor with maldistributed flow conditions provides higher productivity than the trickle bed reactor.
Getting in sync with adherence to endocrine therapy in breast cancer
Authors: Manz Christopher R.
Published: August 2019

Adjuvant endocrine therapy for breast cancer can reduce recurrence rates and improve overall survival, but many patients have poor adherence. Patients whose medication refills are better synchronized—filling medications with fewer pharmacy visits—have better adherence. Synchronization may be an effective tool to improve adherence to endocrine therapy in patients with breast cancer and possibly improve cancer outcomes.
GLIS rearrangements in thyroid nodules: A key to preoperative diagnosis of hyalinizing trabecular tumor
Authors: Nikiforova Marina N. , Nikiforov Yuri E. , Ohori N. Paul
Published: August 2019

Hyalinizing trabecular tumor (HTT) is a rare thyroid neoplasm with peculiar morphologic features that overlap with those of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Specifically, the presence of enlarged oval nuclei, nuclear grooves, and intranuclear pseudoinclusions makes precise cytopathologic diagnosis challenging. If the cytopathologic diagnosis is suspicious for malignancy (Bethesda V) or is malignant (Bethesda VI), a total thyroidectomy, which would be considered an overtreatment, may follow. The recent discovery of the strong association between GLIS fusions and HTT sheds light on its pathogenesis and offers a pathway for its presurgical identification. Although the number of cases analyzed is limited, the recent landmark study shows that GLIS fusions are highly specific for HTT and that lobectomy is the likely appropriate surgical treatment, because these neoplasms, which lack invasion, are benign. For overall success, cytopathologic recognition of the subtle features is important to avoid false‐positive diagnoses and directing potential HTT cases toward indeterminate cytopathologic diagnoses, which would trigger further molecular testing. Additional studies are needed to determine whether a malignant counterpart of GLIS fusion‐positive HTT exists and if more conservative approaches may be taken.
Object contour based on improving region growing method and context border condition
Authors: Binh Nguyen Thanh , Hong Tuyet Vo Thi , Thanh Nguyen Chi
Published: August 2019

Image diagnosis is a very significant medical specialty. Thereby, the doctor will see the form and function of the structure inside the body. The recorded images will be an important basis to help doctors find the disease and treatment more effectively. However, the quality of medical images is a vital factor. Improving the quality of medical images and object contour are the major challenges, because each tiny detail of medical images can contain much information. Object contour in good medical image quality is hard work and it is more difficult in low‐quality medical image. The organs in the image are not clear, which is difficult for the doctor to distinguish the border of the organs in the image. In this paper, we proposed a method for object contour based on improving region growing in bandelet domain in low‐quality medical images. The method includes two stages: increasing the quality of medical image in bandelet domain and object contour by improving region growing combined with context border condition in medical images in the first stage. The result of the proposed method is better than the other methods.
Does involvement in corporate social irresponsibility affect the linguistic features of corporate social responsibility reports?
Authors: Corciolani Matteo , Nieri Federica , Tuan Annamaria
Published: August 2019

Companies publish corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports to inform their stakeholders of their CSR efforts. However, the literature has shown that these reports can be used as a way to offset companies' involvement in corporate social irresponsibility (CSIR). By relying on a cognitive‐linguistic perspective, we investigate whether firms respond to their own irresponsible business conduct by changing their CSR reports' linguistic features and, if so, how. We use a sample of 135 large corporations headquartered in developed countries between 1995 and 2014. An analysis of their CSR reports reveals that the more a firm is involved in irresponsible business conduct, the more likely it is to use narrative (instead of analytical) and deceptive (instead of authentic) language. Moreover, we show that these two trends are particularly evident for highly internationalised firms.
Life‐history constraints on maximum population growth for loggerhead turtles in the northwest Atlantic
Authors: Hatch Joshua M. , Haas Heather L. , Richards Paul M. , Rose Kenneth A.
Published: August 2019

Conservation planning for protected species often relies on estimates of life‐history parameters. A commonly used parameter is the instantaneous maximum population growth rate (rmax) that can be used to limit removals and design recovery targets. Estimation of rmax can be challenging because of limited availability of species‐ and population‐specific data and life‐history information. We applied a method proposed by Neil and Lebreton, originally developed for birds, to loggerhead turtles. The method uses age‐at‐first‐reproduction and adult survival to estimate rmax. We used a variety of datasets and matrix population models to confirm an allometric assumption required by the method, and to generate estimates of age‐at‐first‐reproduction and adult survival. A meta‐analysis was applied to parameters from reported growth curves, which were then combined with the size distribution of neophyte nesters to derive estimates of age‐at‐first‐reproduction. Adult survival rates were obtained from an existing matrix population model. Monte Carlo simulation was then used to combine the estimates of the allometric coefficients, age‐at‐first‐reproduction, and adult survival to obtain a probability distribution of approximate rmax values. Estimated annual maximum population growth rates averaged 0.024, with a mode of 0.017 and a 95% highest density interval of 0.006–0.047. These estimates were similar to values reported by others using different methods and captured the variability in positive, annual change estimates across nesting beach sites for the northwest Atlantic loggerhead population. The use of life‐history parameters has a long history in wildlife and fisheries management and conservation planning. Our estimates of rmax, while having some biases and uncertainty, encompassed values presently used in recovery planning for loggerhead turtles and offer additional information for the management of endangered and threatened species.
The association of retinal vessel calibres with heart failure and long‐term alterations in cardiac structure and function: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study
Authors: Chandra Alvin , Seidelmann Sara B. , Claggett Brian L. , Klein Barbara E. , Klein Ronald , Shah Amil M. , Solomon Scott D.
Published: August 2019

Aims

Narrower retinal arterioles and wider retinal venules have been associated with macrovascular forms of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, whether they are predictive of the development of heart failure (HF) independent of atherosclerotic CVD is unclear. We aimed to describe long‐term associations of retinal vessel calibres with incident HF, in those with and without prevalent macrovascular disease, and how they relate to cardiac structure and function.

Methods and results

This analysis included Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study participants who underwent retinal photography between 1993 and 1995. HF outcomes were followed in these participants until the end of 2013. Returning participants underwent echocardiography between 2011 and 2013. Participants with retinal vessel measurements who were free of CVD at baseline (n = 10 692) were followed for a mean of 16 years (baseline mean age 60 ± 6 years). Wider central retinal venular equivalent (CRVE) and narrower central retinal arteriolar equivalent (CRAE), adjusted for age, gender, and race, were significantly linearly associated with incident HF; however, a non‐linear association was detected with CRVE and incident HF (P‐value for overall trend < 0.001; P‐value for non‐linearity = 0.002). After adjustment with clinical risk factors, CRVE association with incident HF remained significant (P‐value for overall trend = 0.025). Adjusted for age, gender, and race, CRVE widening and CRAE narrowing were associated with larger left ventricular size, higher prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy, and worse measures of diastolic and systolic function.

Conclusion

Retinal vessel calibre imaging, which characterizes retinal microvasculature, is a simple, non‐invasive test that predicts incident HF and adverse cardiac structure/function 18 years in the future, thereby providing insight into systemic cardiovascular health.
The role of caching in next generation cellular networks: A survey and research outlook
Authors: Kabir Asif , Rehman Gohar , Gilani Syed Mushhad , Kitindi Edvin J. , Ul Abidin Jaffri Zain , Abbasi Khurrum Mustafa
Published: August 2019

Mobile applications and social networks tend to enhance the needs for high‐quality content access. To address the expeditious growing demand for data services in 5G cellular networks, it is important to develop distribution techniques and an efficient content caching, aiming to significantly reduce redundant data transmission and, thus, improve the efficiency of the networks. In modern communication systems, caching has emerged as a vital tool for reducing peak data rates. It is anticipated that energy harvesting and self‐powered small base stations are the fundamental part of next‐generation cellular networks. However, uncertainties in energy are the main reason to adopt energy efficient power control schemes to reduce SBS energy consumption and ensure the quality of services for users. Using the edge cooperative caching such as energy efficient design can also be achievable, which reduces the usage of the capacity limited SBSs backhaul and the energy consumption. To support the huge power demand of cellular network, renewable energy harvesting technologies can be leveraged. In addition to this, power supply to the infrastructures is the main challenge to the mobile network operators (MNOs) especially in terms of economic optimum, sustainability, and green energy in developing countries for the growth of cellular networks. Renewable energy–based solutions for MNOs not only reduce the overall carbon dioxide emissions but also provide numerous profits.
On the use of power transformations in CAViaR models
Authors: Tsiotas Georgios
Published: August 2019

Value at risk (VaR) is a risk measure widely used by financial institutions in allocating risk. VaR forecast estimation involves the conditional evaluation of quantiles based on the currently available information. Recent advances in VaR evaluation incorporate a proxy for conditional variance, yielding the conditional autoregressive VaR (CAViaR) models. However, early work in finance literature has shown that the introduction of power transformations has resulted in improvements in volatility forecasting. Having a direct association between volatility and conditional VaR, we adopt power‐transformed CAViaR models. We investigate whether the flexible conditional VaR dynamics associated with power‐transformed CAViaR models can result in better forecasting results than those assumed by the nontransformed CAViaR models. Estimation in CAViaR models is based on an early‐rejection Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. We illustrate our forecasting evaluation results using simulated and financial daily return data series. The results demonstrate that there is strong evidence that supports the use of power‐transformed CAViaR models when forecasting VaR.
Phytate, iron, zinc, and calcium content of common Bolivian foods and their estimated mineral bioavailability
Authors: Castro‐Alba Vanesa , Lazarte Claudia Eliana , Bergenståhl Björn , Granfeldt Yvonne
Published: August 2019

There is a scarcity of information on mineral and phytate content in plant‐based foods in Bolivia. This study aimed to analyze iron, zinc, calcium, and phytate content and estimate the mineral bioavailability of foods consumed in Chapare, Bolivia. Minerals and phytate were analyzed, and bioavailability was estimated in 17 food samples. Leafy vegetables and green legumes had the highest mineral content, followed by pseudocereals. Estimated mineral bioavailability was low for cereals, dry legumes, pseudocereals, and flaxseeds foods mainly due to phytate content. But estimated zinc bioavailability for black cornmeal, yellow corn, and dry peas was moderate. Strong correlations (p < 0.01) were found between the three minerals, while phytate correlated negatively to iron, zinc, and calcium. To get an overview of the estimated mineral bioavailability of plant‐based diets, we have included foods, from the same area, analyzed in a previous study where the evaluated diet covers 80% of RNI for iron and zinc, but <40% of calcium. In conclusion, leafy vegetables and green legumes had the highest contents of minerals and the lowest phytate content of the foods analyzed in the study. The usage of processing strategies and dietary diversification to reduce phytate content would significantly improve estimated mineral bioavailability in plant‐based diets.
Chemical Uniformity in Ferroelectric KxNa1−xNbO3 Thin Films
Authors: Sønsteby Henrik H. , Nilsen Ola , Fjellvåg Helmer
Published: August 2019

Potassium sodium niobate (KNN) has long been considered a viable candidate for replacing lead‐based materials in piezo‐ and ferroelectric devices. The introduction of KNN on an industrial scale is highly awaited; however, processing challenges still remain to be solved. The main obstacle is lack of reproducible growth of uniform boules or thin films at temperatures that facilitate monolithic device integration. Herein, atomic layer deposition (ALD) of KNN thin films, exhibiting high chemical uniformity over large areas, is reported. The cation composition can be controlled at a 1% level, enabling fine‐tuning of the film stoichiometry across the morphotropic phase boundaries of the KNbO3–NaNbO3 solid solution. The films are obtained as highly oriented on Pt (111)||Si (100)‐substrates after annealing at temperatures as low as 550 °C. They exhibit converse piezoelectric effects with magnitudes in accordance with literature. It is believed that the successful development of the described ALD process represents a major step toward achieving lead‐free piezo‐ and ferroelectrics on an industrial scale.
A Markov cost‐effective analysis of biannual fluoride varnish for preventing dental caries in permanent teeth over a 70‐year time horizon
Authors: Nguyen Tan Minh , Tonmukayakul Utsana , Warren Emma , Cartwright Susan , Liew Danny
Published: August 2019

Issue addressed

Biannual application of fluoride varnish is effective for dental caries prevention, but its cost‐effectiveness using quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) is unknown. This study performed a cost‐effectiveness analysis, from the Australian health care system perspective of biannual application of fluoride varnish versus current practice (non‐routine application) for an individual aged 15 years and older over a 70‐year time horizon.

Methods

Health outcomes measured were the number of prevented decayed, missing, and filled teeth (prevented‐DMFT) and QALY gained. The calculated incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) was compared against the reference cost‐effectiveness ICER threshold of AUD$28 033 per QALY gained. A published Markov model capturing dental caries progression of eight permanent molars was used. This 6‐monthly cycle model represented ten possible health states for an individual tooth. A 5% discount rate was applied with relevant sensitivity analysis.

Results

In the base‐case scenario, the net cost for the intervention was $3600 compared to $2303 in the current practice arm. The intervention arm yielded 13.99 DMFT and 15.44 QALY gained, whereas the current practice arm yielded 15.52 DMFT and 14.74 QALY gained. The estimated ICER was $849 per prevented‐DMFT and $1851 per QALY gained. Sensitivity analysis shows the ICER ranged from $424‐$1807 per prevented‐DMFT and $1851‐$3941 per QALY gained.

Conclusion

Biannual professional application of fluoride varnish appears to be a highly cost‐effective strategy and should be considered for universal funding in Australia's health care system.
Standardizing abdominal sacrocolpopexy for the treatment of apical prolapse: One year on
Authors: Cassis Charlotte , Mukhopadhyay Sambit , Morris Edward
Published: August 2019

Objective

To determine the safety and efficacy of a standardized bilateral abdominal sacrocolpopexy using polyvinylidene fluoride mesh 1‐year post‐operatively.

Methods

In a retrospective observational study of women undergoing bilateral abdominal sacrocolpo/cervicopexy between July 2013 and October 2016 at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich, UK, patients were assessed 1 year post‐operatively using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire—Vaginal Symptoms (ICIQ–VS).

Results

The study involved 100 women, 93 of whom were followed up 1 year post‐operatively. The primary outcome was apical prolapse rate, of which there were none. Eight women had anterior and four had posterior wall prolapses; four women required vaginal repairs. Eleven women complained of urinary stress incontinence (six worsening and five de novo) and five had subsequent tension‐free vaginal tape procedures. One woman had urethral pain and one had mesh exposure into the vagina. Pre‐operatively, mean ICIQ–VS score was 27.87 (standard deviation [SD] 6.8), and at 1 year post‐operatively it was 5.82 (SD 3.8). Impact on quality of life score dropped by 83.4%, from 8.35 (SD 2.1) to 1.39 (SD 1.1).

Conclusion

The modified technique used in the present study retained the advantages of traditional sacrocolpopexy, but required smaller volumes of mesh. We found it to be safe and effective with excellent patient satisfaction at 1 year, and providing a promising treatment option for patients suffering from apical prolapse.
ASSESSMENT OF SOLUTE TRANSPORT AND DISTRIBUTION UNDER DRY DRAINAGE CONDITIONS USING A PHYSICAL MODEL
Authors: Ansari Shahab , Abedi‐Koupai Jahangir , Mostafazadeh‐Fard Behrouz , Shayannejad Mohammad , Mosaddeghi Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2019

Researchers have recently investigated dry drainage in respect of decreasing environmental effects and investment cost reduction of traditional drainage systems in arid and semi‐arid regions. This study investigated the effect of dry drainage on solute transport in a loamy soil using a physical model. The experiment lasted 84 days and results showed that the dry drainage system transferred a significant amount of dissolved salts from the irrigated area into the fallow area. Moreover, sodium, potassium, calcium, nitrate and chloride ions accumulated in the upper layers of soil of the fallow area but magnesium accumulated in the deeper layers. The ratios of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, nitrate and chloride concentrations at the soil surface of the fallow area to the corresponding values in the irrigated area were 1.67, 1.20, 1.81, 0.90, 2.58 and 1.20, respectively. In addition, variation of SAR in the soil profile of the irrigated area was low and its value approached 1.58, but it increased with decreasing soil depths of the fallow area reaching 2.17 at the soil surface of this area. Although the results demonstrated the capability of dry drainage to transfer ions from the irrigated to the fallow area, further investigation regarding different aspects of this method is recommended. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biomimetic hydroxyapatite as potential polymeric nanocarrier for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ain Quratul , Zeeshan Mahira , Khan Salman , Ali Hussain
Published: August 2019

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology with much higher prevalence in world's population. RA is initially associated with inflammation of joints and cartilages that ultimately leads to their destruction thus requiring a therapeutic intervention. The available conventional therapeutic strategies for RA are not satisfactory because of the associated side effects such as toxicity, delayed action, and dependence. Therefore, a carrier system is required that should deliver the drug to the target site with minimal side effects. In this connection, nanocarrier systems are of prime importance because of the associated benefits such as their nano‐scaled size, targeted drug delivery, and reduced toxicity that can improve the patient's compliance. Moreover, in the past few decades, nano‐particulate‐based drug delivery approaches that have been investigated for the treatment of RA include ceramics, polymers, and hydrogels. Among these nanocarrier systems, ceramics like hydroxyapatite have gathered striking attention due to their bioactive, biocompatible, and bio‐conductive characteristics. Nano‐sized hydroxyapatite (HA) permeates the bone tissues and serves as a source of calcium phosphates required for bone repairing that are damaged during disease process. The aim of this review article is to highlight the potential use of HA as nanocarrier for anti‐rheumatic drugs as well its possible effect on bone remodeling.
Cytokine-Induced and Stretch-Induced Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Production by Enthesis Cells Could Favor Abnormal Ossification in Spondyloarthritis
Authors: El Jamal Alaeddine , Briolay Anne , Mebarek Saida , Le Goff Benoit , Blanchard Frédéric , Magne David , Brizuela Leyre , Bougault Carole
Published: August 2019

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a common rheumatic disease characterized by enthesis inflammation (enthesitis) and ectopic ossification (enthesophytes). The current pathogenesis model suggests that inflammation and mechanical stress are both strongly involved in SpA pathophysiology. We have previously observed that the levels of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a bone anabolic molecule, were particularly high in SpA patients' serum compared to healthy donors. Therefore, we wondered how this deregulation was related to SpA molecular mechanisms. Mouse primary osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and tenocytes were used as cell culture models. The sphingosine kinase 1 (Sphk1) gene expression and S1P secretion were significantly enhanced by cyclic stretch in osteoblasts and chondrocytes. Further, TNF-α and IL-17, cytokines implicated in enthesitis, increased Sphk1 mRNA in chondrocytes in an additive manner when combined to stretch. The immunochemistry on mouse ankles showed that sphingosine kinase 1 (SK1) was localized in some chondrocytes; the addition of a pro-inflammatory cocktail augmented Sphk1 expression in cultured ankles. Subsequently, fingolimod was used to block S1P metabolism in cell cultures. It inhibited S1P receptors (S1PRs) signaling and SK1 and SK2 activity in both osteoblasts and chondrocytes. Fingolimod also reduced S1PR-induced activation by SpA patients' synovial fluid (SF), demonstrating that the stimulation of chondrocytes by SFs from SpA patients involves S1P. In addition, when the osteogenic culture medium was supplemented with fingolimod, alkaline phosphatase activity, matrix mineralization, and bone formation markers were significantly reduced in osteoblasts and hypertrophic chondrocytes. Osteogenic differentiation was accompanied by an increase in S1prs mRNA, especially S1P1/3, but their contribution to S1P-impact on mineralization seemed limited. Our results suggest that S1P might be overproduced in SpA enthesis in response to cytokines and mechanical stress, most likely by chondrocytes. Moreover, S1P could locally favor the abnormal ossification of the enthesis; therefore, blocking the S1P metabolic pathway could be a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of SpA. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The Promise Initiative: Promoting a trauma‐informed police response to sexual assault in a mid‐size Southern community
Authors: Lathan Emma , Langhinrichsen‐Rohling Jennifer , Duncan Jessica , Stefurak James “Tres”
Published: August 2019

Aims

A mixed‐methods study details a multidisciplinary team's efforts to assess and transform police response to sexual assault in a mid‐size community.

Method

A police department‐wide survey (n = 331) determined baseline levels of officer exposure to trauma‐informed training, rape myth acceptance, and awareness of community and nationwide sexual assault movements to understand officer attitudes towards factors influencing sexual assault investigations. These data, in conjunction with SAMHSA's (2012) trauma‐informed assumptions, were leveraged to develop and adopt trauma‐informed policies that would enhance the police department's response to sexual assault.

Results

At baseline, few officers reported receiving trauma‐informed interviewing training (21.8%) or having knowledge of local SAK, #MeToo, or #TimesUp movements (10.0%, 7.2%, 3.9%, respectively). Chi‐square analyses suggested officer knowledge of community SAK movement, personal investment in learning about sexual assault, and understanding of trauma were higher in officers with versus without training; of concern, officers with more sexual assaults on their caseload were more likely to endorse rape myths. Training understanding was related to lower rape myth acceptance.

Conclusions

Policy changes, including adding trauma‐informed training to the Police Academy, were implemented by the MDT to promote a system‐wide trauma‐informed approach to sexual assault and ensure community safety.
The mediating effect of perceived social support on the relationship between mindfulness and burnout in special education teachers
Authors: Sun Jin , Wang Xian , Wang Yongli , Du Xiaoxin , Zhang Changxin
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to explore the mediating effect of perceived social support on the relationship between mindfulness and burnout in Chinese special education teachers. Three hundred and seven teachers completed the Five‐Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, Multi‐dimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support Scale, and Teacher Burnout Inventory. The results showed that burnout was negatively correlated with mindfulness and perceived social support, while perceived social support was positively correlated with mindfulness. Moreover, perceived social support partially mediated the effect of mindfulness on special education teachers' burnout. These results suggest that the use of mindfulness combined with perceived social support may be beneficial for preventing and mitigating burnout among special education teachers.
Shivering for Status: When Cold Temperatures Increase Product Evaluation
Authors: Park Jaewoo , Hadi Rhonda
Published: August 2019

While anecdotal evidence suggests that consumers maintain an association between high‐status products and cold temperature, no research has empirically examined this linkage. We propose and demonstrate that physical cold can indeed increase consumers’ perceptions of a product's status signaling and luxuriousness. We demonstrate this consequence can stem from tactile or visually induced temperatures and ultimately increase consumers’ overall evaluations of products. Finally, we highlight boundary conditions for when the effect is likely to manifest. Our findings offer theoretical contributions along with several practical implications for retailing, product design, brand management, and marketing communications.
Theoretical considerations in determining allometric growth within instars of crustaceans, with special reference to Americamysis bahia
Authors: Scarfe A. David , Steele Craig W.
Published: August 2019

Allometry in crustaceans is typically considered growth over several instars primarily because crustaceans are presumed to grow only during ecdysis (discontinuous growth). Using theoretical distributions of the sizes of two morphometric variables over several instars, four theoretical instar allometry models are postulated: continuous allometry (indiscrete and discrete); discontinuous allometry (indiscrete and discrete); mixed allometry (simple or complex); and two‐rate continuous allometry. The estimates of proportions of allometry within the instars are determined using Y = f(X) and X = f(Y) for variables X and Y. The amount of allometry in each variable is estimated using the mean ± standard deviation on the independent variable. Application of these theoretical instar allometry models using carapace and abdomen sizes in six instars indicates Americamysis bahia experiences two‐rate continuous allometry, rather than “traditional” discontinuous allometry, with 85% or more of total growth occurring in the intermolt phase, and with the abdomen accounting for about 60% of the expansion.
Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Imaging in Differentiation Borderline From Malignant Ovarian Epithelial Tumors: Correlation With Histological Cell Proliferation and Vessel Characteristics
Authors: Song Xiao‐li , Wang Lifang , Ren Honghong , Wei Rong , Ren Jia‐Liang , Niu Jinliang
Published: August 2019

Background

The differentiation of borderline from malignant ovarian epithelial tumors (OETs) is difficult based on morphologic characteristics. Diffusion and perfusion information from intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) might be useful for this distinction.

Purpose

To investigate the potential of IVIM‐DWI in discriminating borderline from malignant OETs by correlating with cell proliferation and microvessel density (MVD).

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Sixty‐six patients with OETs (22 borderline, BOETs; 44 malignant, MOETs) underwent IVIM‐DWI before surgery.

Field Strength

3.0T IVIM‐DWI sequence with 12 b‐values (0–1000 sec/mm2).

Assessment

Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and IVIM‐DWI parameters (diffusion coefficient [D], microvascular volume fraction [f], and pseudodiffusion coefficient [D*]) were measured. Cell proliferation and MVD was determined by immunohistochemical staining of Ki‐67 and CD‐31, respectively.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U‐test; two‐sample t‐test; intraclass correlation coefficient; Bland–Altman analysis; receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves; and Spearman correlation.

Results

ADC and D in BOETs was significantly higher than those in MOETs (P < 0.001), while f in BOETs was significantly lower than those in MOETs (P < 0.001). No significant difference was found in D* between borderline and malignancies (P = 0.324). In the differential diagnosis of borderline from malignant OETs; D demonstrated the highest area under the curve (AUC) of 0.951, while ADC and f had a lower AUC of 0.921 and 0.847, respectively. The ADC and D was negatively correlated with cell proliferation (r = –0.682, r = –0.694, respectively, P < 0.001), while f was positively correlated with MVD of the OETs (r = 0.558, P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

IVIM‐DWI may be a useful tool for differentiating BOETs from MOETs. D and f could be image biomarkers to reflect histopathological characteristics of cell proliferation and MVD in OETs.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:928–935.
Breast implant–associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, a systematic review and in‐depth evaluation of the current understanding
Authors: Ebner Peggy J. , Liu Alice , Gould Daniel J. , Patel Ketan M.
Published: August 2019

Breast implant–associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA‐ALCL) is a T‐cell neoplasm that arises in the capsule around breast implants. While an association with implants has been proposed, no causal link has been identified and the pathophysiology and natural history of BIA‐ALCL remain unknown. A literature review of 391 articles was performed to assess the current understanding of BIA‐ALCL and to provide a balanced and unbiased view of the current controversy surrounding the disease.
Videolaparoscopic microwave ablation in patients with HCC at a European high‐volume center: Results of 815 procedures
Authors: Cillo Umberto , Bertacco Alessandra , Fasolo Elisa , Carandina Riccardo , Vitale Alessandro , Zanus Giacomo , Gringeri Enrico , D'Amico Francesco , Bassi Domenico , Neri Daniele , Dadduzio Vincenzo , Farinati Fabio , Aliberti Camillo
Published: August 2019

Background: Videolaparoscopic (VL) microwave ablation (MWA) is not included in most of the international guidelines as a therapeutic option for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Aim of this study was to assess the safety of VL MWA in patients with HCC for whom resection or percutaneous ablation is unsuitable.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on a prospective database of patients with HCC treated with VL MWA at our institution from 2009 to 2016. Patient demographics, operational characteristics, and complications were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed to identify safety profile, overall survival and recurrence rate.

Results: A total of 815 VL MWA were performed in 674 patients with a mean age of 64 years. Patients had a mean Model for End‐stage Liver Disease score of 10 (±3); 32.8% were Child B, 44.1% Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer B‐C. Perioperative mortality was 0.4%. Overall morbidity was 30.8%, with Dindo‐Clavien complications ≥3 in 2%. The median length of stay was 2 days. In 43.1% VL MWA was the first‐line therapy. Overall 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rates were 81.9%, 54.9%, and 35.9%.

Conclusions: The present is the largest series of VL ablation and the bigger number of patients with HCC treated with MW reported nowadays. It confirms the safety of a minimally invasive procedure for patients with HCC when resection or percutaneous ablation is not feasible.
Dexmedetomidine protects against lung injury induced by limb ischemia‐reperfusion via the TLR4/MyD88/NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Xue Bin‐Bin , Chen Bai‐Hui , Tang Ya‐Ning , Weng Cheng‐Wei , Lin Li‐Na
Published: August 2019

Dexmedetomidine (DEX) can protect the lung from ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. The aims of this study were to determine whether DEX attenuates lung injury following lower extremity I/R and to investigate the related toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway. Twenty‐eight SD rats were divided into four groups (n = 7): Sham, I/R, I/R + DEX (25 μg/kg prior to ischemia), and I/R + DEX + Atip (250 μg/kg atipamezole before DEX treatment). Lower extremity I/R was induced by left femoral artery clamping for 3 hours and followed by 2 hours reperfusion. Quantitative alveolar damage and the wet/dry (W/D) ratio were calculated. Interleukin (IL)‐1, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the lung were measured. The TLR4 and MyD88 mRNA expression levels were measured by RT‐PCR, nuclear factor (NF)‐κB, and phosphorylated NF‐κB by western blot, respectively. Quantitative alveolar damage, W/D ratio, MPO, BALF and serum IL‐1, IL‐6, and TNF‐α, and TLR4, MyD88, NF‐κB, and p‐NF‐κB expression significantly increased in the I/R group relative to the Sham group. DEX preconditioning significantly reduced lung edema, and histological injury relative to the I/R group. Serum and BALF IL‐1, IL‐6, and TNF‐α levels, MPO activity and TLR4, MyD88, NF‐κB, and p‐NF‐κB expression were also significantly reduced in the I/R + DEX group compared with the I/R group. Atipamezole partially reversed all the aforementioned effects. DEX preconditioning protects the lungs against lower extremity I/R injury via α2‐adrenoceptor‐dependent and α2‐adrenoceptor‐independent mechanisms. It also suppresses the TLR4 pathway and reduces inflammation.
Saharan dust deposition initiates successional patterns among marine microbes in the Western Atlantic
Authors: Borchardt Trace , Fisher Kelsey V. , Ebling Alina M. , Westrich Jason R. , Xian Peng , Holmes Christopher D. , Landing William M. , Lipp Erin K. , Wetz Michael S. , Ottesen Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2019

Deposition of aerosolized desert dust can affect marine microbial community structure and function through pulsed addition of limiting micro‐ and macronutrients. However, few studies have captured responses to dust deposition in situ following trans‐oceanic transport. We conducted a 26‐d time series evaluating biogeochemical and microbial community response to Saharan dust deposition in surface waters in the subtropical western Atlantic (Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, U.S.A.). Following periods of elevated atmospheric dust concentrations, particulate and dissolved iron concentrations increased in surface waters. Autotrophic picoeukaryote abundance increased rapidly, followed by increases in the abundance of heterotrophic bacteria and Synechococcus. Concomitant to cell count changes, we observed successional shifts in bacterial community composition. The relative abundances of Prochlorococcus and Pelagibacter declined with dust arrival, while relative abundance of heterotrophic bacteria increased, beginning with Vibrionales and followed sequentially by Chrysophyceae, Rhodobacteriaceae, and Flavobacteriaceae. Finally, a peak in Synechococcus cyanobacteria was observed. These results provide new insight into microbial community succession in response to Saharan dust deposition, their association with temporal dynamics in surface water dissolved and particulate iron concentrations, and a potential role for bioprocessing of dust particles in shaping marine microbial responses to deposition events.
Spermatogenesis induction of spermatogonial stem cells using nanofibrous poly(l‐lactic acid)/multi‐walled carbon nanotube scaffolds and naringenin
Authors: Ghorbani Sadegh , Eyni Hossein , Khosrowpour Zahra , Salari Asl Leila , Shabani Ronak , Nazari Hojjatollah , Mehdizadeh Mehdi , Ebrahimi Warkiani Majid , Amjadi FatemehSadat
Published: August 2019

Spermatogenesis is a process in which animals generate spermatozoa from spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Successful in vitro differentiation of SSCs towards spermatids holds a significant promise for regeneration of impaired spermatogenesis. The present study aims to evaluate the efficiency of a 3D culture containing naringenin on proliferation and differentiation potentials of mouse SSCs. In this study, multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were incorporated into poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) fibers via electrospinning technique. The fibrous PLLA/MWCNTs were studied by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), water contact angle measurements, electrical conductivity, and mechanical properties. Next, the SSCs were seeded into the PLLA/MWCNTs scaffolds and exhibited preferable survival and differentiation efficiency to subsequent cell lines. To shed more light on this matter, the immunocytochemistry, reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), and qRT‐PCR results showed that the aforementioned cells on the 3D fabrics overexpressed the C‐kit and SYCP3 proteins. In addition, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) measurement data demonstrated that naringenin, an effective antioxidant, plays an important role in in vitro spermatogenesis. Taken together, the results of this study revealed the synergistic effects of 3D scaffolds and naringenin for efficient spermatogenesis in laboratories.
Lamin A/C deficiency in CD4+ T‐cells enhances regulatory T‐cells and prevents inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Toribio‐Fernández Raquel , Herrero‐Fernandez Beatriz , Zorita Virginia , López Juan A , Vázquez Jesús , Criado Gabriel , Pablos Jose L , Collas Philippe , Sánchez‐Madrid Francisco , Andrés Vicente , Gonzalez‐Granado Jose M
Published: August 2019

The mechanisms by which lamin A/C in CD4+ T‐cells control intestinal homeostasis and can cause inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are unknown. Here, we explore lamin A/C in a mouse model of IBD. Adoptive transfer to Rag1−/− mice of Lmna−/− CD4+ T‐cells, which have enhanced regulatory T‐cells (Treg) differentiation and function, induced less severe IBD than wild‐type T‐cells. Lamin A/C deficiency in CD4+ T‐cells enhanced transcription of the Treg master regulator FOXP3, thus promoting Treg differentiation, and reduced Th1 polarization, due to epigenetic changes in the Th1 master regulator T‐bet. In mesenteric lymph nodes, retinoic acid (RA) released by CD103+ dendritic cells downregulated lamin A/C in CD4+ T‐cells, enhancing Treg differentiation. However, non‐RA‐producing CD103− dendritic cells predominated in peripheral lymph nodes, facilitating lamin A/C expression in CD4+ T‐cells and therefore Th1 differentiation. Our findings establish lamin A/C as a key regulator of Th differentiation in physiological conditions and show it as a potential immune‐regulatory target in IBD. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.