bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Falling Municipal Water Demand in a Small City Dependent on the Declining Ogallala Aquifer: Case Study of Clovis, New Mexico
Authors: O'Donnell Michael , Berrens Robert P.
Published: July 2018

Municipal water demand has declined over the past several decades in many large cities in the western United States. The same is true in Clovis, New Mexico, which is a small town in arid eastern New Mexico, whose sole water source is from the dwindling southern Ogallala Aquifer. Using premises-level monthly panel data from 2006 to 2015 combined with climate data and additional controls, we apply a fixed effects instrumental variable approach to estimate municipal water demand. Results indicate that utility-controlled actions such as price increases and rebates for xeriscaping and water saving technology have contributed to the decline. Overall water demand was found to be price inelastic and in the neighborhood of [Formula: see text]0.50; however, premises receiving toilet and washing machine rebates were relatively more price inelastic and premises receiving landscaping rebates were more price elastic, though still inelastic. In addition, the average premises receiving its first toilet rebate reduced water use by 8.4%, washing machine rebates lowered use by 9.2%, and the average landscaping rebate reduced water use by less than 5.0%. From the utility’s perspective, and assuming a 5.0% discount rate, levelized cost analysis indicates that toilet rebates are 34% more cost effective than washing machine rebates and nearly 800% more cost effective than landscaping rebates over their respective lives per volume of water conserved. While this research focuses on Clovis, estimation results can be leveraged by other small to mid-sized cities experiencing declining supplies, confronting climate change, and with little opportunity for near-term supply enhancement.
Health-Related Quality of Life among Women Breast Cancer Patients in Eastern China
Authors: Chen Qing , Li Shunping , Wang Min , Liu Liu , Chen Gang
Published: July 2018

Objectives. Breast cancer is one of the major cancers in Chinese women. European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23) are now the most common and well developed instruments assessing the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of breast cancer patients internationally, whereas there are relatively few Chinese studies. This study has two aims: to investigate the HRQOL and explore which dimensions of HRQOL play more important roles in breast cancer patients’ overall quality of life in China and to explore the latent factor structure and the potential complementary relationship between these two EORTC questionnaires. Methods. This cross-sectional and descriptive study was performed from October 2014 to February 2015 in Qingdao Municipal Hospital, China. A total of 621 women breast cancer patients were enrolled. EOTRC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23 were used to evaluate the HRQOL of the participants. The nonparametric test, multiple linear regression, and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) were the main statistical methods we used. Results. 608 participants completed the questionnaires with a response rate of 97.9%. The mean age of the participants was 48.0 years (SD=9.6). About 33% were illiterate or only finished primary school education. Almost half participants (47.4%) only adopted chemotherapy. HRQOL was significantly different with regard to patients’ social-demographic and clinical characteristics. Age, residence, educational level, employment status, and TNM stage were five significant predictors for global health status. Pain, dyspnea, sexual enjoyment, and systemic therapy side-effect were main subscales which had a significant impact on the global health status for patients in different TNM stage. The EFA result suggested that QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23 were complementary questionnaires. Conclusions. The EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23 questionnaires provide complementary information regarding breast cancer patients’ HRQOL, and depending on the different cancer staging functional/symptom scales which significantly contributed to the overall HRQOL differed.
Placenta Accreta Spectrum: A Review of Pathology, Molecular Biology, and Biomarkers
Authors: Bartels Helena C. , Postle James D. , Downey Paul , Brennan Donal J.
Published: July 2018

Background. Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is a condition of abnormal placental invasion encompassing placenta accreta, increta, and percreta and is a major cause of severe maternal morbidity and mortality. The diagnosis of a PAS is made on the basis of histopathologic examination and characterised by an absence of decidua and chorionic villi are seen to directly adjacent to myometrial fibres. The underlying molecular biology of PAS is a complex process that requires further research; for ease, we have divided these processes into angiogenesis, proliferation, and inflammation/invasion. A number of diagnostic serum biomarkers have been investigated in PAS, including human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). They have shown variable reliability and variability of measurement depending on gestational age at sampling. At present, a sensitive serum biomarker for invasive placentation remains elusive. In summary, there are a limited number of studies that have contributed to our understanding of the molecular biology of PAS, and additional biomarkers are needed to aid diagnosis and disease stratification.
Blockade of RBP-J-Mediated Notch Signaling Pathway Exacerbates Cardiac Remodeling after Infarction by Increasing Apoptosis in Mice
Authors: He Yanru , Pang Si , Huang Jia , Zhu Kongbo , Tong Jiayi , Tang Yaoliang , Ma Genshan , Chen Lijuan
Published: July 2018

Background. Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the major cause of death in patients with cardiovascular disease. Cardiac remodeling is a common pathological change following myocardial infarction (MI), and cardiomyocyte apoptosis plays a key role in this change. Transcription factor recombination signal-binding protein-J (RBP-J)-mediated Notch signaling pathway has been implicated in several inherited cardiovascular diseases, including aortic valve diseases, but whether the RBP-J-mediated Notch signaling pathway plays a role in cardiomyocyte apoptosis after MI is unclear. Method. We crossed RBP-Jfl/fl mice and Myh6-Cre/Esr1 transgenic mice to delete RBP-J in vivo and to partly inhibit the canonical Notch signaling pathway. MI was induced in mice by permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery followed by the knockout of RBP-J. Cardiac function and morphology were assessed by echocardiography and histological analysis 4 weeks after infarction. In addition, the expression and regulation of apoptosis-related molecules were examined by real time PCR and western blot. Results. RBP-J knockout decreased the survival rate and deteriorated post-MI remodeling and function in mice, and this effect was associated with increased cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The potential mechanisms might be related to the downregulated expression of bcl-2, upregulated expression of bax, and cleaved-caspase 3 to exacerbate cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Conclusion. These findings show that the RBP-J-mediated Notch signaling pathway in cardiomyocytes limits ventricular remodeling and improves cardiac function after MI. The RBP-J-mediated Notch signaling pathway has a protective role in cardiomyocyte apoptosis following cardiac injury.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasonography Assessment of Functional Magnetic Stimulation on the Effect of Glenohumeral Subluxation in Acute Poststroke Hemiplegic Patients
Authors: Yang Chengyuan , Chen Ping , Du Wenjie , Chen Qingmei , Yang Huilin , Su Min
Published: July 2018

Background. Glenohumeral subluxation (GHS) is common in patients with acute hemiplegia caused by stroke. GHS and upper limb function are closely related. Objective. Using musculoskeletal ultrasonography (MSUS) to objectively evaluate the efficacy of functional magnetic stimulation (FMS) in the treatment of GHS in acute hemiplegic patients after stroke. Methods. The study used prospective case control study. Stroke patients with GHS were recruited and assigned to control group and FMS group. Control group received electrode stimulation at the supraspinatus and deltoid muscles of the hemiplegic side, while FMS group was stimulated at the same locations. Before and after treatment, the distances of the acromion-greater tuberosity (AGT), acromion-lesser tuberosity (ALT), acromiohumeral distance (AHD), supraspinatus thickness (SST), and deltoid muscle thickness (DMT) in patients’ bilateral shoulder joint were measured by MSUS, respectively. Meanwhile, Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) was used to evaluate the improvement of upper limb function. Results. 30 patients were recruited. After FMS treatment, there was a significant decrease in the difference value between ipsilateral side and contralateral side of AGT [t=8.595, P<0.01], ALT [t=11.435, P<0.01], AHD [t=8.375, P<0.01], SST [t=15.394, P<0.01], and DMT [t=24.935, P<0.01], and FMA score increased [t=-13.315, P<0.01]. Compared with control group, FMS group decreased more significantly in the difference value between ipsilateral side and contralateral side of AGT [t=2.161, P<0.05], ALT [t=3.332, P<0.01], AHD [t=8.768, P<0.01], SST [t=6.244, P<0.01], and the DMT [t=3.238, P<0.01], and FMA score increased more significantly in FMS group [t=7.194, P<0.01]. Conclusion. The study preliminarily shows that the MSUS can objectively and dynamically evaluate the treatment effect of GHS in hemiplegic patients. Meanwhile, compared with control group, the FMS is more effective and has fewer side effects, and the long-term effect of FMS is worth further study. This trial is registered with ChiCTR1800015352.
A Comparative In Vivo Study on Three Treatment Approaches to Applying Topical Botulinum Toxin A for Crow’s Feet
Authors: Cao Yan , Yang Jian-ping , Zhu Xiao-gang , Zhu Jie , Chang Hong-qin , Guo Sheng-hua , Luo Dan , Zhou Bing-rong
Published: July 2018

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of three treatment approaches to applying Botulinum Toxin Type A (BoNTA) for crow’s Feet. Methods. Thirty female subjects with moderate-to-severe crow’s feet were included in this comparative in vivo study. They were randomly divided into three groups, including the local intramuscular, intradermal microdroplet injection, and nanomicroneedle delivered with BoNTA therapy group. After one session, evaluations were done at the time points of weeks one, four, and twelve after the treatment. The assessments included subjective satisfaction, blinded clinical assessment, and the biophysical parameters (skin collagen content, elasticity, hydration, and sebum contents). Results. For dynamic wrinkles, intramuscular injection and intradermal microdroplets injection were more effective than nanomicroneedles. For static wrinkles, nanomicroneedles and intradermal microdroplets injection were more effective. However, the intramuscular injection had no significant effect on static wrinkles. At one week and four weeks after the treatment, the skin elasticity, collagen content, and hydration of nanomicroneedle group and intradermal microdroplet group increased more significantly than those of the intramuscular injection group; at twelve weeks after the treatment, the skin elasticity, collagen content, and hydration of intradermal microdroplet group were higher than those of other two groups. However we observed no statistically significant difference in sebum content between the three groups before and after the treatment. Conclusion. BoNTA delivered through nanomicroneedles and intradermal microdroplets injection can effectively treat crow’s feet. This trial is registered with [2016]KY018-01, registered 16 Feb 2016.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Serum and Urine S100A8/A9 and Serum Amyloid A in Probable Acute Abdominal Pain at Emergency Department
Authors: Forouzan Arash , Masoumi Kambiz , Rahim Fakher , Moezzi Meisam , Khavanin Ali , Ranjbari Nastaran , Amal Saki Malehi , Fallah Amoli Amirali , Akhiani Niloofar , Ghourchian Fatemeh
Published: July 2018

Study Design. This study was performed to investigate the diagnostic values of some inflammatory biomarkers in abdominal pain. Methods. Patients over 18 years of age with acute recent abdominal pain who presented to the Emergency Department were evaluated. Serum and urinary samples were taken and evaluated for serum and urine S100A8/A9 and serum amyloid A. All patients were referred to a surgeon and were followed up until the final diagnosis. In the end, the final diagnosis was compared with the levels of biomarkers. Results. Of a total of 181 patients, 71 underwent surgery and 110 patients did not need surgery after they were clinically diagnosed. Mean levels of serum and urine S100A8/A9 had a significant difference between two groups, but serum amyloid A did not show. The diagnostic accuracy of serum S100A8/A9, urine S100A8/A9, and serum amyloid A was 86%, 79%, and 50%, respectively, in anticipation of the need or no need for surgery in acute abdominal pain. Conclusions. Our study showed that in acute abdominal pain, serum and urine S100A8/A9 can be useful indicators of the need for surgery, but serum amyloid A had a low and nonsignificant diagnostic accuracy.
Expanding the miRNA Transcriptome of Human Kidney and Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sage Adam P. , Minatel Brenda C. , Marshall Erin A. , Martinez Victor D. , Stewart Greg L. , Enfield Katey S. S. , Lam Wan L.
Published: July 2018

Despite advancements in therapeutic strategies, diagnostic and prognostic molecular markers of kidney cancer remain scarce, particularly in patients who do not harbour well-defined driver mutations. Recent evidence suggests that a large proportion of the human noncoding transcriptome has escaped detection in early genomic explorations. Here, we undertake a large-scale analysis of small RNA-sequencing data from both clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and nonmalignant samples to generate a robust set of miRNAs that remain unannotated in kidney tissues. We find that these novel kidney miRNAs are also expressed in renal cancer cell lines. Moreover, these sequences are differentially expressed between ccRCC and matched nonmalignant tissues, implicating their involvement in ccRCC biology and potential utility as tumour-specific markers of disease. Indeed, we find some of these miRNAs to be significantly associated with patient survival. Finally, target prediction and subsequent pathway analysis reveals that miRNAs previously unannotated in kidney tissues may target genes involved in ccRCC tumourigenesis and disease biology. Taken together, our results represent a new resource for the study of kidney cancer and underscore the need to characterize the unexplored areas of the transcriptome.
A Modified Time Reversal Method for Guided Wave Detection of Bolt Loosening in Simulated Thermal Protection System Panels
Authors: Wu Guan-nan , Xu Chao , Du Fei , Zhu Wei-dong
Published: July 2018

In this work, a modified time reversal method is proposed for guided wave detection and localizing loosened bolt in a complicated multibolt‐jointed structure. Different from the traditional time reversal guided wave method, the response signal due to a tone burst input received at the healthy state is time reversed and recorded as a standard reemitting signal. In the detection process, this recorded standard signal is used for all damage cases to yield time reversal‐focalized reconstruction signals. This largely improves the sensitivity of the focalized signal to damage state. In this paper, the peak amplitude of the focalized wave packet in the reconstructed signal is calculated and utilized as tightness index. By bonding PZT transducers at different joint locations inside the structure, multiple tightness indices, where each tightness index presents the correlation between the current joint condition to its healthy condition at the joint, can be obtained. To analyze a large number of tightness indices, a principle component analysis method is introduced, and a neural network‐based loosening detection method is proposed. The proposed method is experimentally validated in a simulated double‐layer bolt‐jointed thermal protection system panel. Experimental results illustrate that the proposed method is effective to identify and localized the bolt loosening in complicated multibolt‐jointed structure. The detection and identification of the location of multibolt loosening is realized.
Radiographic Imaging Does Not Reliably Predict Macroscopic Extranodal Extension in Human Papilloma Virus-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Patel Mihir R. , Hudgins Patricia A. , Beitler Jonathan J. , Magliocca Kelly R. , Griffith Christopher C. , Liu Yuan , Bougnon Kristen , El-Deiry Mark , Saba Nabil F. , Aiken Ashley H.
Published: July 2018

Background: Radiographic concern for lymphatic extranodal extension (ENE) impacts upfront management decisions for patients with human papilloma virus (HPV) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Therefore, we set out to evaluate the accuracy of preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) to predict major ENE (> 2 mm). Methods: Twenty-seven consecutive patients with HPV-associated OPSCC who presented at our institutional multidisciplinary tumor board were staged radiographically with positron emission tomography (PET/CT) and CECT, and underwent primary transoral robotic resection and neck dissection. CECT imaging results were correlated with pathologic ENE (pENE). Results: CECT specificity for all pENE was 69 and 75% for radiologist 1 and 2, respectively. For pENE > 2 mm, the sensitivities were 88 and 100%, but specificities were 52.6 and 63.2%. Positive predictive values (PPV) were 43.8 and 53.3%; negative predictive values were 90.9 and 100%. On logistic regression analysis, only size ≥3 cm (OR 4.7–5.4, p < 0.02, 95% CI 1.3–44.0) demonstrated significant correlation with major ENE > 2 mm. Conclusions: Preoperative imaging for HPV-associated OPSCC had a PPV for pENE > 2 mm of 44–55%, based on any interruption in the capsule or invasion into the perinodal fat. The PPV is low and equipoise in treatment decision making for patients with HPV-associated OPSCC may require other imaging characteristics.
Aktualisierung der S3-Leitlinie «Interdisziplinäre Früherkennung, Diagnostik, Therapie und Nachsorge des Mammakarzinoms» - Was ist neu und relevant?
Authors: Wöckel Achim
Published: July 2018

Hintergrund: Das Mammakarzinom stellt weiterhin die häufigste onkologische Erkrankung der Frau dar. Zur Optimierung der Früherkennung, Diagnostik, Therapie und Nachsorge dieser Erkrankung wurde die bestehende S3-Leitlinie aus dem Jahr 2012 methodisch überarbeitet und inhaltlich der aktuellen Evidenz angepasst. Methode: Der Aktualisierungsprozess basierte zum einen auf der Recherche, Identifikation und Adaptation belastbarer Quellleitlinien und zum anderen auf Evidenzübersichten, die nach Entwicklung von PICO(Patients/Interventions/Control/Outcome)-Fragen, systematischer Recherche in Literaturdatenbanken sowie Selektion und Bewertung von Volltexten angefertigt wurden. In den interdisziplinären Arbeitsgruppen wurden auf dieser Grundlage Empfehlungsvorschläge erarbeitet, die im Rahmen von nominalen Konsensusverfahren modifiziert und graduiert wurden. Ergebnisse: Der Stellenwert des Mammographie-Screenings wird in der aktualisierten Leitlinienversion für die Altersgruppe zwischen 50 und 69 bestätigt. Neben den konventionellen Methoden der Karzinom-Diagnostik wird heute die Computertomographie (CT) zum Staging bei höherem Rückfallrisiko empfohlen. Die Evidenz zu den lokoregionären Therapieverfahren des primären Mammakarzinoms eröffnet Möglichkeiten zur Deeskalation: Komplettresektionen sind prognoseentscheidend, ein Sicherheitssaum von mehreren Millimetern jedoch nicht mehr notwendig. Eine Axilladissektion wird nur noch in definierten Fällen empfohlen. Die Indikation zur adjuvanten Systemtherapie richtet sich nach definierten Risikokonstellationen (Grading, Alter, Nodalstatus, Ki67, Hormonrezeptorstatus, HER2-Status), eine endokrine Therapie sollte stets durchgeführt werden, wenn ein Hormonrezeptor-positives Mammakarzinom vorliegt. Schlussfolgerung: Die konsequente Umsetzung der Leitlinienempfehlungen ermöglicht die Optimierung der Versorgung von Patientinnen mit einem Mammakarzinom und kann maßgeblich zu einer Senkung von Morbidität und Mortalität beitragen.
Niedriges MCV: Auch bei beschwerdefreien Patienten mit normalem Hämoglobinwert ist eine Koloskopie indiziert!
Authors: Leischker Andreas
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to elucidate clini- cal indicators for the detection of advanced colorectal cancer (ACRC). Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted at a tertiary hospital. This study included 333 patients older than 85 years who underwent colonoscopy from April 2006 to May 2010. The detection rate of ACRC was assessed. Then, we analyzed the association between the detection of ACRC and various background factors including mean corpuscular volume (MCV). We also analyzed the cumulative overall survival of patients with detected ACRC. Results: ACRC was found in 37 patients, resulting in a detection rate of 15%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a decreased MCV was an independent predictor for the detection of ACRC (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.84-0.94), whereas symptoms such as abdominal pain, hematochezia, or anemia were not independent predictors. MCV was an independent predictor irrespective of the location of the tumor. The cumulative survival rates at 3 and 5 years after diagnosis were 78 and 58%, respectively, during a median observational period of 30.3 months. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the usefulness of MCV as an indicator of the necessity of colonoscopy for older patients.
Early Screening for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Inpatient Detoxification and Motivation Treatment: Results and Consequences
Authors: Proescholdt Margit G. , Müller Sandra E. , Vogel Marc , Lang Undine , Wiesbeck Gerhard A. , Breit Wilhelm , Linde Andreas , Walter Marc , Odenwald Michael
Published: July 2018

Aims: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant comorbidity in substance use disorders (SUDs). While most studies have addressed trauma/PTSD in abstinent patients, little is known about trauma/PTSD in early detoxification treatment. The current study therefore addresses the systematic evaluation of trauma/PTSD in early inpatient detoxification. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was accomplished in three German-speaking clinics (n = 134) specialized in inpatient detoxification and motivation treatment. All measures are based on self-report using trauma-specific questionnaires and measures for general psychopathological burden. Results: Participation rate was 60.1% and patients did not show clinically obvious psychological distress during or after assessment. DSM-IV traumatic events were reported by 66.4%. Of the total sample, 38.1% screened positive for PTSD, and 14.9% screened positive for subsyndromal PTSD. PTSD patients reported significantly more childhood adversities and significantly higher scores in depression and ­general psychopathology compared to subsyndromal PTSD and SUD-only patients. Conclusions: Early and systematic evaluation of PTSD in SUD inpatient detoxification treatment is largely safe and yields important information for individual treatment. The high PTSD-rate and the high symptom load in SUD patients during inpatient detoxification treatment highlight the need for a more stringent address of trauma/PTSD in early SUD treatment.
Usefulness of 11C-Methionine Positron Emission Tomography for Monitoring of Treatment Response and Recurrence in a Glioblastoma Patient on Bevacizumab Therapy: A Case Report
Authors: Nakano Tomoyuki , Tamura Kaoru , Tanaka Yoji , Inaji Motoki , Hayashi Shihori , Kobayashi Daisuke , Nariai Tadashi , Toyohara Jun , Ishii Kenji , Maehara Taketoshi
Published: July 2018

Recently developed molecular targeted therapies such as bevacizumab (BEV; Avastin) therapy have therapeutic efficacy for glioblastoma. However, it is difficult to distinguish between a tumor response and nonenhancing tumor progression with conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after BEV administration. Here we present a recurrent glioblastoma case in which 11C-methionine positron emission tomography (MET-PET) provided useful information for detecting tumor recurrence after complete remission, as assessed by the Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology criteria. A 47-year-old male with a left frontal lobe glioblastoma experienced recurrence 6 months postoperatively. We administered BEV concomitantly with temozolomide, subsequent to gamma knife surgery. Two months after starting BEV, complete remission was obtained. MET uptake on PET gradually decreased and had nearly disappeared 4 months after initiating BEV. No enhanced area was seen on MRI for 17 months after BEV initiation. Nevertheless, MET-PET revealed recurrence, visualized as nonenhancing tumor progression. MET-PET provides useful information for detecting glioblastoma recurrence, which lacks contrast enhancement on MRI after BEV therapy.
Influence of Timing of Initiation and Volume of Processed Plasma on the Outcome of Septic Shock Patients Treated with Coupled Plasma Filtration and Adsorption
Authors: Berlot Giorgio , Falini Stefano , Negro Virginia , Agbedjro Antoinette , Tomasini Ariella , Iscra Fulvio , Bianco Francesco , Gerini Ugo , Boscutti Giuliano
Published: July 2018

Background: The extracorporeal removal of mediators is a rescue strategy for septic shock patients, which is still under investigation. Several techniques are available: coupled plasma filtration and adsorption (CPFA) combines plasma processing with renal replacement therapy. Methods: The study aimed to elucidate the role of both timing of initiation and intensity of treatment on the outcome, for which we retrospectively studied 52 patients. We collected the overall pre-CPFA time interval, starting from the first episode of hypotension in the wards and the volume of processed plasma (Vp), which we used as a proxy for intensity of treatment. Results: Timing of initiation did not significantly differ between survivors and non-survivors (25 vs. 27 h), while the Vp did (0.25 vs. 0.17 L/kg/session, p < 0.05). The significance of Vp was confirmed by a multiple logistic regression model. Conclusion: Our study confirms that intensity of CPFA, but not its timing of initiation, correlates with survival of septic shock patients.
MicroRNA-500a Promotes the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Post-Transcriptionally Targeting BID
Authors: Bao Leilei , Zhang Mingjian , Han Shu , Zhan Yangyang , Guo Wenyuan , Teng Fei , Liu Fang , Guo Meng , Zhang Luding , Ding Guoshan , Wang Quanxiang
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common human malignant diseases in the world, and the mechanisms underlying HCC carcinogenesis and progression need further investigation. MicroRNAs play important roles in the development of cancer, and miR-500a is suggested to be deregulated in some types of cancer. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of miR-500a in HCC remain unknown. Methods: The expression of miR-500a in HCC was analyzed in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and examined in 33 pairs of HCC tissues and matched nontumor tissues. The correlation between miR-500a expression and prognosis of HCC patients was analyzed from the survival data in TCGA. The mechanism of miR-500a upregulation in HCC was detected using chromatin immunoprecipitation-quantitative real-time PCR. The roles of miR-500a in HCC development were examined using a cell counting kit-8 assay in vitro and growth of transplanted tumors in nude mice in vivo. Apoptosis of HCC was detected using Annexin V/propidium iodide staining. The expression of BH3-interacting death agonist (BID) protein was examined using western blot analysis. Results: miR-500a expression was upregulated in HCC tissues, and high miR-500a expression was significantly correlated with the poor prognosis of HCC patients. Histone modifications in the promoter region of miR-500a may be responsible for its increased expression. Inhibition of miR-500a in HCC cell lines significantly promoted apoptosis, as well as inhibiting the proliferation of HCC cells and growth of transplanted tumors in nude mice. miR-500a directly targeted the 3′ untranslated region of BID mRNA, and inhibition of miR-500a-promoted apoptosis was almost completely abolished by the administration of ABT-199 via the BID-mitochondria pathway. Conclusion: Our results suggest that histone modifications in the promoter region of miR-500a may be responsible for the increased expression of miR-500a in HCC, which promotes cancer progression by targeting BID, indicating that miR-500a may be a potential prognostic predictor and therapeutic target for HCC patients.
Mapeando as dimensões de um desafio: o ensino de alemão como língua estrangeira em contextos multinível
Authors: Ferreira Mergenfel Vaz , Gondar Anelise
Published: July 2018

O cotidiano nas salas de aula de ALE nos contextos universitário e institucional extracurricular – como é o caso do projeto PALEP – Projeto Aulas de Línguas em Espaços Públicos (UERJ/UFRJ) – tem imposto desafios de várias ordens a todos os envolvidos no processo de ensino-aprendizagem. Consideramos como pressuposto da pesquisa a ideia de que professores e gestores da ensino-aprendizagem estão diante de salas de aula de natureza “multinível” e que o reconhecimento dessa natureza tem implicações político-pedagógicas que terão reflexo no papel de alunos e professores, no desenvolvimento do material didático e também nos objetivos do processo de aprendizagem. O objetivo deste artigo é, portanto, discutir aspectos teóricos da atividade de ensino-aprendizagem como uma atividade complexa e identificar três dimensões do reconhecimento da natureza “multinível” das salas de aula de ALE: a dimensão social, que engloba questões relacionadas às possibilidades de socialização e cooperação levando em conta a multiplicidade de níveis em sala de aula; a dimensão pedagógica, que impõe transformações na racionalidade didática em sala; e, por fim, a dimensão política, que nos permite compreender melhor processos de produção do fracasso e de evasão em cursos de ALE.
Touristen auf der mexikanischen Halbinsel Yucatán im Kreuzfeuer der Übersetzung: eine Übersetzungskritik von Javier Covo Torres’ Los mayas en las rocas
Authors: Gruhn Dorit Heike , Cabrera Gaspar Ramírez , Kottenhahn Karin
Published: July 2018

Seit dem funktionalen Ansatz in der Übersetzungswissenschaft ist die Frage nach der Zielgruppe aus der Übersetzungskritik nicht mehr wegzudenken. Das ist unser Ausgangspunkt bei der Untersuchung der Spanisch-Deutsch und Spanisch-Englisch-Übersetzung von Los mayas en las rocas des Autors Javier Covo Torres. Dabei handelt es sich um ein für Touristen konzipiertes Buch, das eine didaktisierte Einführung in die Kultur der prähispanischen Maya geben möchte. Übergeordnetes Untersuchungsziel ist die Bewertung der Adäquatheit der Zieltexte, wobei wir uns methodisch auf einige Parameter der Übersetzungsbewertung von Silvia Parra Galiana stützen, die eine Überprüfung in zwei Phasen vorschlägt, welche unterschiedliche Kriterien abdecken. Unser besonderes Augenmerk gilt dabei dem Zusammenspiel von Text und Illustrationen, denn letztere stellen den Übersetzer vor besondere Herausforderungen. Die Ergebnisse stellen wir in Zusammenhang mit verlegerischen Entscheidungen, die fernab des Wissens- und Diskussionsstands der akademischen Disziplin getroffen werden.
Cystathionine γ Lyase Sulfhydrates the RNA Binding Protein Human Antigen R to Preserve Endothelial Cell Function and Delay Atherogenesis
Authors: Bibli Sofia-Iris , Hu Jiong , Sigala Fragiska , Wittig Ilka , Heidler Juliana , Zukunft Sven , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Randriamboavonjy Voahanginirina , Wittig Janina , Kojonazarov Baktybek , Schürmann Christoph , Siragusa Mauro , Siuda Daniel , Luck Bert , Abdel Malik Randa , Filis Konstantinos A. , Zografos George , Chen Chen , Wang Dao Wen , Pfeilschifter Josef , Brandes Ralf P. , Szabo Csaba , Papapetropoulos Andreas , Fleming Ingrid
Published: July 2018

Background:

Hydrogen sulfide (H
2
S), generated by cystathionine γ lyase (CSE), is an important endogenous regulator of vascular function. The aim of the present study was to investigate the control and consequences of CSE activity in endothelial cells under physiological and proatherogenic conditions.

Methods:

Endothelial cell CSE knockout mice were generated, and lung endothelial cells were studied in vitro (gene expression, protein sulfhydration, and monocyte adhesion). Mice were crossed onto the apolipoprotein E–deficient background, and atherogenesis (partial carotid artery ligation) was monitored over 21 days. CSE expression, H
2
S bioavailability, and amino acid profiling were also performed with human material.

Results:

The endothelial cell–specific deletion of CSE selectively increased the expression of CD62E and elevated monocyte adherence in the absence of an inflammatory stimulus. Mechanistically, CD62E mRNA was more stable in endothelial cells from CSE-deficient mice, an effect attributed to the attenuated sulfhydration and dimerization of the RNA-binding protein human antigen R. CSE expression was upregulated in mice after partial carotid artery ligation and in atheromas from human subjects. Despite the increase in CSE protein, circulating and intraplaque H
2
S levels were reduced, a phenomenon that could be attributed to the serine phosphorylation (on Ser377) and inhibition of the enzyme, most likely resulting from increased interleukin-1β. Consistent with the loss of H
2
S, human antigen R sulfhydration was attenuated in atherosclerosis and resulted in the stabilization of human antigen R–target mRNAs, for example, CD62E and cathepsin S, both of which are linked to endothelial cell activation and atherosclerosis. The deletion of CSE from endothelial cells was associated with the accelerated development of endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, effects that were reversed on treatment with a polysulfide donor. Finally, in mice and humans, plasma levels of the CSE substrate
l
-cystathionine negatively correlated with vascular reactivity and H
2
S levels, indicating its potential use as a biomarker for vascular disease.

Conclusions:

The constitutive S-sulfhydration of human antigen R (on Cys13) by CSE-derived H
2
S prevents its homodimerization and activity, which attenuates the expression of target proteins such as CD62E and cathepsin S. However, as a consequence of vascular inflammation, the beneficial actions of CSE-derived H
2
S are lost owing to the phosphorylation and inhibition of the enzyme.
Care and Capacities of Human-Centered Design
Authors: Hargraves Ian
Published: July 2018

Human Centered Design is increasingly practiced and accepted within and for Healthcare. This acceptance is commonly methodologically grounded in the capacities of design—what design is uniquely able to do. This conception limits the development and functioning of a principled idea of design that is centered by what is, and may be, human in life and living. Here, the commonplace idea of design as a capacity to induce change is uncovered and challenged in the context of care; where the human being served is held as significant beyond the limited capacities of the practitioner.
Description of the eggs of Psorophora ciliata and Psorophora ferox (Diptera: Culicidae, Aedini) from the east of the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina using scanning electron microscopy
Authors: DE CARVALHO LUCAS ROSSITO , OLIVEIRA ELIANA MEDEIROS , MARCONDES CARLOS BRISOLA
Published: July 2018

Scanning electron microscopy was used to examine and describe the egg of Psorophora ciliata, which was not previous adequately described, and the egg of Ps. ferox, which exhibited regional variation. Eggs of Ps. ciliata have long tubercles (length 26.7±1.72 µm) in the outer chorion, surrounded by a hexagonal reticulation. The micropyle (external diameter, to the outer edge of the collar, 26.59 µm; internal diameter 20.8 µm) is surrounded by an irregular collar with a thickness of 14.97 ±0.63 µm. Eggs of Ps. ferox exhibit some differences in the size and shape of tubercles compared to those from other more northern regions.
New species of Otiothopinae (Araneae: Palpimanidae) from Colombia
Authors: CALA-RIQUELME FRANKLYN , QUIJANO-CUERVO LUIS , SABOGAL-GONZÁLEZ ALEXANDER , AGNARSSON INGI
Published: July 2018

Six new Colombian species of Otiothops (O. besotes sp. n., O. doctorstrange sp. n., O. chicaque sp. n., O. vaupes sp. n.) and Fernandezina (F. andersoni sp. n., F. eduardoi sp. n.) are described. Diagnostic illustrations and distribution maps are provided for all of the new species, along with new records for O. macleayi Banks, 1929 and O. amazonicus Simon, 1887 from Colombia.
The Potential Role of Atmospheric Bores and Gravity Waves in the Initiation and Maintenance of Nocturnal Convection over the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Parsons David B. , Haghi Kevin R. , Halbert Kelton T. , Elmer Blake , Wang Junhong
Published: July 2018

This investigation explores the relationship among bores, gravity waves, and convection within the nocturnal environment through the utilization of measurements taken during the International H2O Project (IHOP_2002) over the Southern Great Plains. The most favorable conditions for deep convection were found to occur within the boundary layer during the late afternoon and early evening hours in association with the diurnal cycle of solar insolation. At night, the layers most favorable for deep convection occur at and above the height of the nocturnal southerly low-level jet in association with distinct maxima in both the southerly and westerly components of the wind. Observations taken during the passage of 13 nocturnal wave disturbances over a comprehensive profiling site show the average maximum and net upward displacements with these waves were estimated to be ~900 and ~660 m, respectively. The lifting was not limited to the stable boundary layer, but reached into the conditionally unstable layers aloft. Since the net upward displacements persisted for many hours as the disturbances propagated away from the convection, areas well in excess of 10 000 km2 are likely impacted by this ascent. This lifting can directly maintain existing convection and aid in the initiation of new convection by reducing the convective inhibition in the vicinity of the active convection. In agreement with past studies, strong ascent in the lowest ~1.5 km was generally consistent with the passage of a bore. However, separate wave responses also occurred well above the bores, and low-frequency gravity waves may explain such disturbances.
Divergent Responses of Extratropical Atmospheric Circulation to Interhemispheric Dipolar SST Forcing over the Two Hemispheres in Boreal Winter
Authors: Xue Jiaqing , Sun Cheng , Li Jianping , Mao Jiangyu , Nakamura Hisashi , Miyasaka Takafumi , Xu Yidan
Published: July 2018

Global sea surface temperature (SST) evolution exhibits an antiphase variation between the two hemispheres that is referred to as the SST interhemispheric dipole (SSTID) mode. The impacts of the SSTID on extratropical atmospheric circulation in boreal winter are explored by both regression analysis and SST-forced numerical simulations. The responses of extratropical circulation to SSTID thermal forcing bear an equivalent barotropic structure. For the Southern Hemisphere (SH), positive SSTID events lead to a meridional dipolar perturbation in sea level pressure (SLP), similar in pattern to the positive southern annular mode (SAM). Although SSTID-forced SLP anomalies over the Northern Hemisphere (NH) do not exhibit a zonally symmetric pattern as is the case over the SH, they still show signs of a meridional dipole opposite to the SH over the oceans. Divergent circulation responses to SSTID forcing between the two hemispheres are suggested to be associated with contrasting storm-track variations. Positive SSTID events weaken oceanic fronts in both the North Atlantic and North Pacific, and thus lead to the decline of NH storm-track activity by decreasing atmospheric baroclinicity. In the SH, positive SSTID events correspond to the enhancement of SH transients by intensifying the Antarctic polar-frontal zone. Additionally, local baroclinic energy conversions are diagnosed to explain the SSTID-related storm-track variations over both hemispheres. Finally, an investigation of transient eddy feedback indicates that the SSTID mode modulates extratropical atmospheric circulation, primarily by regulating storm tracks and changing the corresponding eddy feedback.
Modeling the Snowpack Energy Balance during Melt under Exposed Crop Stubble
Authors: Harder Phillip , Helgason Warren D. , Pomeroy John W.
Published: July 2018

On the Canadian Prairies, agricultural practices result in millions of hectares of standing crop stubble that gradually emerges during snowmelt. The importance of stubble in trapping wind-blown snow and retaining winter snowfall has been well demonstrated. However, stubble is not explicitly accounted for in hydrological or energy balance snowmelt models. This paper relates measurable stubble parameters (height, width, areal density, and albedo) to the snowpack energy balance and snowmelt with the new, physically based Stubble–Snow–Atmosphere Model (SSAM). Novel process representations of SSAM quantify the attenuation of shortwave radiation by exposed stubble, the sky and vegetation view factors needed to solve longwave radiation terms, and a resistance scheme for stubble–snow–atmosphere fluxes to solve for surface temperatures and turbulent fluxes. SSAM results were compared to observations of radiometric snow-surface temperature, stubble temperature, snow-surface solar irradiance, areal-average turbulent fluxes, and snow water equivalent from two intensive field campaigns during snowmelt in 2015 and 2016 over wheat and canola stubble in Saskatchewan, Canada. Uncalibrated SSAM simulations compared well with these observations, providing confidence in the model structure and parameterization. A sensitivity analysis conducted using SSAM revealed compensatory relationships in energy balance terms that result in a small increase in net snowpack energy as stubble exposure increases.
Patient Safety/Quality Improvement Primer, Part I: What PS/QI Means to Your Otolaryngology Practice
Authors: Brenner Michael J. , Chang C. W. David , Boss Emily F. , Goldman Julie L. , Rosenfeld Richard M. , Schmalbach Cecelia E.
Published: July 2018

Patient safety/quality improvement (PS/QI) is the cornerstone of 21st‐century health care. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery is excited to provide a dedicated PS/QI primer. The overarching goal for this PS/QI series is to provide a comprehensive and practical resource that assists readers, authors, and peer reviewers in understanding PS/QI research, its unique methodology, and the associated reporting standards for trustworthy performance measures. The target audience includes resident and fellows, faculty from the private sector and academia, and allied health professionals. This inaugural primer reviews PS/QI background as it relates to otolaryngology practice. It explores the history, goals, and development of performance measurement. In addition, it highlights opportunities for integrating PS/QI into otolaryngology practice. Payers will drive patients to quality care based on outcomes. Otolaryngologists have a responsibility to embrace a culture of PS/QI. In doing so, we will define optimal, quality otolaryngology care through objective data and metrics.
A Surgical Case of Venous Aneurysm of the Cephalic Vein with Unique Clinicopathological Findings for Venous Dissection: A Possible New Entity
Authors: Kobata Takashi , Yamada Sohsuke , Mizutani Ken-ichi , Kurose Nozomu , Takagi Sho , Machida Yuichiro , Kanda Tsugiyasu
Published: July 2018

We presented an extremely rare case of a 38-year-old female’s venous aneurysm of left cephalic vein with unique histopathological features, displaying variably thinned medial wall with focal, markedly reduced or absent smooth muscle cells and elastic fibers, most likely leading to the venous dissection with an intimal tear and many medial blood-filled vascular channels. We propose that those venous dissection-like findings would be a new feature especially from the clinicopathological viewpoints and might be considered in the classification of venous aneurysm. Further prospective studies are needed to validate the presence and significance of venous dissecting aneurysm as a new histopathological entity, after collecting and investigating a larger number of venous aneurysm cases examined. This short report could interest the scientific community, taken together with potentially specific findings of new entity, venous dissecting aneurysm.
Azithromycin enhances anticancer activity of TRAIL by inhibiting autophagy and up‐regulating the protein levels of DR4/5 in colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Qiao Xinran , Wang Xiaofei , Shang Yue , Li Yi , Chen Shu‐zhen
Published: July 2018

Background

Azithromycin is a member of macrolide antibiotics, and has been reported to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. However, the underlying mechanisms are not been fully elucidated. Tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) selectively targets tumor cells without damaging healthy cells. In the present study, we examined whether azithromycin is synergistic with TRAIL, and if so, the underlying mechanisms in colon cancers.

Methods

HCT‐116, SW480, SW620 and DiFi cells were treated with azithromycin, purified TRAIL, or their combination. A sulforhoddamine B assay was used to examine cell survival. Apoptosis was examined using annexin V‐FITC/PI staining, and autophagy was observed by acridine orange staining. Western blot analysis was used to detect protein expression levels. In mechanistic experiments, siRNAs were used to knockdown death receptors (DR4, DR5) and LC‐3B. The anticancer effect of azithromycin and TRAIL was also examined in BALB/c nude mice carrying HCT‐116 xenografts.

Results

Azithromycin decreased the proliferation of HCT‐116 and SW480 cells in a dose‐dependent manner. Combination of azithromycin and TRAIL inhibited tumor growth in a manner that could not be explained by additive effects. Azithromycin increased the expressions of DR4, DR5, p62 and LC‐3B proteins and potentiated induction of apoptosis by TRAIL. Knockdown of DR4 and DR5 with siRNAs increased cell survival rate and decreased the expression of cleaved‐PARP induced by the combination of azithromycin and TRAIL. LC‐3B siRNA and CQ potentiated the anti‐proliferation activity of TRAIL alone, and increased the expressions of DR4 and DR5.

Conclusion

The synergistic antitumor effect of azithromycin and TRAIL mainly relies on the up‐regulations of DR4 and DR5, which in turn result from LC‐3B‐involved autophagy inhibition.
President's Page
Authors: Lee Madeline Dana
Published: July 2018

It takes a village to raise a child. For a parent, this includes not only family and friends but support from employers and professional institutions as well. Any career gap can leave a professional feeling isolated and overwhelmed by the learning curve associated with reentering the workforce. With time, maternity support has improved significantly all over the world, but it still varies geographically. In Canada, eligible mothers can receive maternity benefits up to 12 weeks before their due date, and parents can choose to receive parental benefits over a period of 12 months at the current benefit rate or up to 18 months at a lower benefit rate. In the United States, the federal Family and Medical Leave Act requires employers to provide up to only 12 weeks of unpaid leave for several medical conditions, including childbirth for mothers. In Venezuela, pregnant women cannot be terminated from work during a period that lasts from the start of the pregnancy until two years after delivering the baby. There is also a provision in Venezuela for 26 weeks of paid maternity leave and two weeks of paternity leave. Paid maternity leave in Kuwait is 70 days, and female employees can request nonpaid leave up to four months after those 70 days.