bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multicenter experience with the new SOFIA Plus catheter as a primary local aspiration catheter for acute stroke thrombectomy
Authors: Möhlenbruch M A , Kabbasch C , Kowoll A , Broussalis E , Sonnberger M , Müller M , Wiesmann M , Trenkler J , Killer-Oberpfalzer M , Weber W , Mpotsaris A , Bendszus M , Stampfl S
Published: December 2016

Introduction

The direct aspiration first pass technique (ADAPT) has been introduced as a rapid and safe endovascular treatment strategy in patients with ischemic stroke.

Objective

To determine the technical feasibility, safety, and functional outcome with ADAPT using the new large-bore 6F SOFIA Plus catheter.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from six university hospitals was performed. The following parameters of all acute stroke procedures (June 2015– January 2016) using the SOFIA Plus catheter were analyzed: accessibility of the thrombus with the catheter, recanalization success (Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction ≥2b), time to recanalization, procedure-related complications. Furthermore, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores at presentation and discharge and the modified Rankin scale (mRS) score at 90 days were recorded.

Results

85 patients were treated using the SOFIA Plus catheter. The occlusion site was the anterior circulation in 94.1%. Median baseline NIHSS score was 18. In 64.7%, ADAPT alone was successful after a median procedure time of 21 min. With additional use of stent retrievers in the remaining cases, the recanalization rate was 96.5%. No catheter-related complications such as dissections were observed. Thrombus migration to a new vascular territory occurred in 4.7% and symptomatic hemorrhage in 4.7%. After 3 months, mRS 0–2 was achieved in 49.4%. Mortality rate was 20%.

Conclusions

In the majority of cases, thrombus aspiration using the SOFIA Plus catheter results in successful recanalization after a short procedure time. With additional use of stent retrievers, a high recanalization rate can be achieved (96.5%). The complication rate was in line with those of previous publications.
Continuous aspiration prior to intracranial vascular embolectomy (CAPTIVE): a technique which improves outcomes
Authors: McTaggart Ryan A , Tung Eric L , Yaghi Shadi , Cutting Shawna M , Hemendinger Morgan , Gale Heather I , Baird Grayson L , Haas Richard A , Jayaraman Mahesh V
Published: December 2016

Background

Modern stent retriever-based embolectomy for patients with emergent large vessel occlusion improves outcomes. Techniques aimed at achieving higher rates of complete recanalization would benefit patients.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical impact of an embolectomy technique focused on continuous aspiration prior to intracranial vascular embolectomy (CAPTIVE).

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of 95 consecutive patients with intracranial internal carotid artery or M1 segment middle cerebral artery occlusion treated with stent retriever-based thrombectomy over an 11-month period. Patients were divided into a conventional local aspiration group (traditional group) and those treated with a novel continuous aspiration technique (CAPTIVE group). We compared both early neurologic recovery (based on changes in National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score), independence at 90 days (modified Rankin score 0–2), and angiographic results using the modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Ischemia (TICI) scale including the TICI 2c category.

Results

There were 56 patients in the traditional group and 39 in the CAPTIVE group. Median age and admission NIHSS scores were 78 years and 19 in the traditional group and 77 years and 19 in the CAPTIVE group. Median times from groin puncture to recanalization in the traditional and CAPTIVE groups were 31 min and 14 min, respectively (p<0.0001). While rates of TICI 2b/2c/3 recanalization were similar (81% traditional vs 100% CAPTIVE), CAPTIVE offered higher rates of TICI 2c/3 recanalization (79.5% vs 40%, p<0.001). Median discharge NIHSS score was 10 in the traditional group and 3 in the CAPTIVE group; this difference was significant. There was also an increased independence at 90 days (25% traditional vs 49% CAPTIVE).

Conclusions

The CAPTIVE embolectomy technique may result in higher recanalization rates and better clinical outcomes.
Analysis of mortality trends due to cardiovascular diseases in Panama, 2001–2014
Authors: Carrión Donderis María , Moreno Velásquez Ilais , Castro Franz , Zúñiga Julio , Gómez Beatriz , Motta Jorge
Published: December 2016

Objective

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are still the leading cause of death worldwide despite the recent decline in mortality rates attributable to CVD in Western Europe and the Americas. The aim of this study is to investigate mortality trends due to ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke in Panama from 2001 to 2014, as well as the mortality differences by sex and age groups.

Methods

Data were obtained from the National Mortality Register. The International Classification of Diseases 10th revision codes (ICD-10) I20–I25 and I60–I69 were used for IHD and stroke, respectively. Age-adjusted mortality rates were calculated using the world population of the WHO as standard. Trends were analysed using Joinpoint Regression Program and annual percentage changes (APC) were estimated.

Results

From 2010, the IHD mortality trend began to decline in the whole population of Panama (APC −4.7%, p<0.05). From 2001 to 2014, a decline in the trend for IHD mortality was observed (APC −1.7%, p<0.05) in women, but not in men. Stroke mortality showed a significant annual decline during the study period (APC −3.8%, p<0.05) and it was more pronounced in women (APC −4.5%, p<0.05) than in men (APC −3.3%, p<0.05).

Conclusions

In Panama, the mortality rates from IHD and stroke have declined in recent years. Better access to healthcare, improved treatment of acute IHD and stroke, low tobacco consumption and better control of hypertension probably account for a significant part of this mortality reduction.
Relationships among achieved heart rate, β-blocker dose and long-term outcomes in patients with heart failure with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Miller Robert J H , Howlett Jonathan G , Chiu Michael H , Southern Danielle A , Knudtson Merril , Wilton Stephen B
Published: December 2016

Objective

Higher β-blocker dose and lower heart rate are associated with decreased mortality in patients with systolic heart failure (HF) and sinus rhythm. However, in the 30% of patients with HF with atrial fibrillation (AF), whether β-blocker dose or heart rate predict mortality is less clear. We assessed the association between β-blocker dose, heart rate and all-cause mortality in patients with HF and AF.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study in 935 patients (60% men, mean age 74, 44.7% with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)) discharged with concurrent diagnoses of HF and AF. We used Cox models to test independent associations between higher versus lower predischarge heart rate (dichotomised at 70/min) and higher versus lower β-blocker dose (dichotomised at 50% of the evidence-based target), with the primary composite end point of mortality or cardiovascular rehospitalisation over a median of 2.9 years. All analyses were stratified by the presence of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVEF≤40%).

Results

After adjustment for covariates, neither β-blocker dose nor predischarge heart rate was associated with the primary composite end point. However, tachycardia at admission (heart rate >120/min) was associated with a reduced risk of the composite outcome in patients with both reduced LVEF (adjusted HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.88, p<0.01) and preserved LVEF (adjusted HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.64 to 0.98, p=0.04).

Conclusions

We found no associations between predischarge heart rate or β-blocker dosage and clinical outcomes in patients with recent hospitalisations for HF and AF.
Development of a feasible and responsive ultrasound inflammation score for rheumatoid arthritis through a data-driven approach
Authors: Aga Anna-Birgitte , Berner Hammer Hilde , Christoffer Olsen Inge , Uhlig Till , Kvien Tore K , van der Heijde Désirée , Fremstad Hallvard , Madland Tor Magne , Lexberg Åse Stavland , Haukeland Hilde , Rødevand Erik , Høili Christian , Stray Hilde , Noraas Anne Lindtner , Widding Hansen Inger Johanne , Bakland Gunnstein , Lillegraven Siri , Lie Elisabeth , Haavardsholm Espen A
Published: December 2016

Objective

To develop and validate a responsive and feasible ultrasound inflammation score for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We used data from cohorts of early RA (development) and established RA starting/switching biologic therapy (validation). 4 tendons and 36 joints were examined by a grey scale (GSUS) and power Doppler semiquantitative ultrasound (PDUS) scoring system (full score). Ultrasound score components were selected based on factor analyses of 3-month change in the development cohort. Responsiveness was assessed by standardised response means (SRMs). We assessed the proportion of information retained from the full score by linear regression.

Results

118 patients with early and 212 patients with established RA were included. The final ultrasound score included 8 joints (metacarpophalangeal 1–2–3, proximal interphalangeal 2–3, radiocarpal, metatarsophalangeal 2–3) and 1 tendon (extensor carpi ulnaris) examined bilaterally. The 6-month SRMs for the final score were −1.24 (95% CI −1.47 to −1.02) for GSUS, and −1.09 (−1.25 to −0.92) for PDUS in early RA, with 87% of total information retained for GSUS and 90% for PDUS. The new score performed somewhat better than formerly proposed scores in the validation cohort.

Conclusions

The Ultrasound in Rheumatoid Arthritis 9 joint/tendon score (USRA9) inflammation score showed good responsiveness, retained most of the information from the original full score and overall performed better than previous scores in a validation cohort.

Trial registration numbers

NCT01205854, ACTRN12610000284066; Post-results.
Measurement and numerical analysis of water-conducting fractured zone in solid backfill mining under an aquifer: a case study in China
Authors: Li Meng , Zhang Jixiong , Deng Xuejie , Ju Feng , Li Baiyi
Published: December 2016

Solid backfill mining has been applied to excavate coal seams under aquifers in China; however, the control effects of the water-conducting fractured zone (WCFZ) require further study. Therefore, based on the mechanical properties of the compacted backfill materials, a method for simulating these materials has been proposed, and the compaction of backfill materials subject to the effects of overlying strata has been simulated. Boreholes were used in the test area to measure the height of the WCFZ in the CT101 panel of the Wugou Coal Mine in Suixi Town, Anhui Province. The results indicate that the numerical simulation is basically consistent with measured data, which verifies the feasibility of the simulation method. Moreover, the backfill materials were placed into the gob to restrict the movement of rock strata, which helps reduce the mining impact and the height of the WCFZ. The research results provide a basis for the design of backfill mining under aquifers.
Novel applications for a noninvasive sampling method of the nasal mucosa
Authors: Rebuli Meghan E. , Speen Adam M. , Clapp Phillip W. , Jaspers Ilona
Published: December 2016

Reliable methods for sampling the nasal mucosa provide clinical researchers with key information regarding respiratory biomarkers of exposure and disease. For quick and noninvasive sampling of the nasal mucosa, nasal lavage (NL) collection has been widely used as a clinical tool; however, limitations including volume variability, sample dilution, and storage prevent NL collection from being used in nonlaboratory settings and analysis of low abundance biomarkers. In this study, we optimize and validate a novel methodology using absorbent Leukosorb paper cut to fit the nasal passage to extract epithelial lining fluid (ELF) from the nasal mucosa. The ELF sampling method limits the dilution of soluble mediators, allowing quantification of both high- and low-abundance soluble biomarkers such as IL-1β, IL-8, IL-6, interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP-10), and neutrophil elastase. Additionally, we demonstrate that this method can successfully detect the presence of respiratory pathogens such as influenza virus and markers of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the nasal mucosa. Efficacy of ELF collection by this method is not diminished in consecutive-day sampling, and percent recovery of both recombinant IL-8 and soluble mediators are not changed despite freezing or room temperature storage for 24 h. Our results indicate that ELF collection using Leukosorb paper sampling of ELF provides a sensitive, easy-to-use, and reproducible methodology to collect concentrated amounts of soluble biomarkers from the nasal mucosa. Moreover, the methodology described herein improves upon the standard NL collection method and provides researchers with a novel tool to assess changes in nasal mucosal host defense status.
Single cell transcriptomic profiling of mouse pancreatic progenitors
Authors: Stanescu Diana E. , Yu Reynold , Won Kyoung-Jae , Stoffers Doris A.
Published: December 2016

The heterogeneity of the developing pancreatic epithelium and low abundance of endocrine progenitors limit the information derived from traditional expression studies. To identify genes that characterize early developmental tissues composed of multiple progenitor lineages, we applied single-cell RNA-Seq to embryonic day (e)13.5 mouse pancreata and performed integrative analysis with single cell data from mature pancreas. We identified subpopulations expressing macrophage or endothelial markers and new pancreatic progenitor markers. We also identified potential α-cell precursors expressing glucagon ( Gcg) among the e13.5 pancreatic cells. Despite their high Gcg expression levels, these cells shared greater transcriptomic similarity with other e13.5 cells than with adult α-cells, indicating their immaturity. Comparative analysis identified the sodium-dependent neutral amino acid transporter, Slc38a5, as a characteristic gene expressed in α-cell precursors but not mature cells. By immunofluorescence analysis, we observed SLC38A5 expression in pancreatic progenitors, including in a subset of NEUROG3+ endocrine progenitors and MAFB+ cells and in all GCG+ cells. Expression declined in α-cells during late gestation and was absent in the adult islet. Our results suggest SLC38A5 as an early marker of α-cell lineage commitment.
Pharmacogenetics and pathophysiology ofCACNA1Smutations in malignant hyperthermia
Authors: Beam Teresa A. , Loudermilk Emily F. , Kisor David F.
Published: December 2016

A review of the pharmacogenetics (PGt) and pathophysiology of calcium voltage-gated channel subunit alpha1 S ( CACNA1S) mutations in malignant hyperthermia susceptibility type 5 (MHS5; MIM #60188) is presented. Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a life-threatening hypermetabolic state of skeletal muscle usually induced by volatile, halogenated anesthetics and/or the depolarizing neuromuscular blocker succinylcholine. In addition to ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1) mutations, several CACNA1S mutations are known to be risk factors for increased susceptibility to MH (MHS). However, the presence of these pathogenic CACNA1S gene variations cannot be used to positively predict MH since the condition is genetically heterogeneous with variable expression and incomplete penetrance. At present, one or at most six CACNA1S mutations display significant linkage or association either to clinically diagnosed MH or to MHS as determined by contracture testing. Additional pathogenic variants in CACNA1S, either alone or in combination with genes affecting Ca2+homeostasis, are likely to be discovered in association to MH as whole exome sequencing becomes more commonplace.
New Insights into the Effects of Several Environmental Parameters on the Relative Fitness of a Numerically Dominant Class of Evolved Niche Specialist
Authors: Kuśmierska Anna , Spiers Andrew J.
Published: December 2016

Adaptive radiation in bacteria has been investigated using Wrinkly Spreaders (WS), a morphotype which colonises the air-liquid (A-L) interface of static microcosms by biofilm formation with a significant fitness advantage over competitors growing lower down in the O2-limited liquid column. Here, we investigate several environmental parameters which impact the ecological opportunity that the Wrinkly Spreaders exploit in this model system. Manipulation of surface area/volume ratios suggests that the size of the WS niche was not as important as the ability to dominate the A-L interface and restrict competitor growth. The value of this niche to the Wrinkly Spreaders, as determined by competitive fitness assays, was found to increase as O2flux to the A-L interface was reduced, confirming that competition for O2was the main driver of WS fitness. The effect of O2on fitness was also found to be dependent on the availability of nutrients, reflecting the need to take up both for optimal growth. Finally, the meniscus trap, a high-O2region formed by the interaction of the A-L interface with the vial walls, was also important for fitness during the early stages of biofilm formation. These findings reveal the complexity of this seemingly simple model system and illustrate how changes in environmental physicality alter ecological opportunity and the fitness of the adaptive morphotype.
Identification ofDietziaspp. from Cardiac Tissue by 16S rRNA PCR in a Patient with Culture-Negative Device-Associated Endocarditis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Sudhindra Praveen , Wang Guiqing , Nadelman Robert B.
Published: December 2016

The genusDietziawas recently distinguished from other actinomycetes such asRhodococcus. While these organisms are known to be distributed widely in the environment, over the past decade several novel species have been described and isolated from human clinical specimens. Here we describe the identification ofDietzia natronolimnaea/D. cercidiphylliby PCR amplification and sequencing of the 16S rRNA encoding gene from cardiac tissue in a patient with culture-negative device-associated endocarditis.
The Peroxidation of Leukocytes Index Ratio Reveals the Prooxidant Effect of Green Tea Extract
Authors: Peluso Ilaria , Manafikhi Husseen , Raguzzini Anna , Longhitano Yaroslava , Reggi Raffaella , Zanza Christian , Palmery Maura
Published: December 2016

Despite tea increased plasma nonenzymatic antioxidant capacity, the European Food Safety Administration (EFSA) denied claims related to tea and its protection from oxidative damage. Furthermore, the Supplement Information Expert Committee (DSI EC) expressed some doubts on the safety of green tea extract (GTE). We performed a pilot study in order to evaluate the effect of a single dose of two capsules of a GTE supplement (200 mg × 2) on the peroxidation of leukocytes index ratio (PLIR) in relation to uric acid (UA) and ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP), as well as the sample size to reach statistical significance. GTE induced a prooxidant effect on leukocytes, whereas FRAP did not change, in agreement with the EFSA and the DSI EC conclusions. Besides, our results confirm the primary role of UA in the antioxidant defences. The ratio based calculation of the PLIR reduced the sample size to reach statistical significance, compared to the resistance to an exogenous oxidative stress and to the functional capacity of oxidative burst. Therefore, PLIR could be a sensitive marker of redox status.
Level-of-Service Based Hierarchical Feedback Control Method of Network-Wide Pedestrian Flow
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Jia Limin , Qin Yong
Published: December 2016

Pedestrian flow control is usually used to manage the crowd motion in public facilities to avoid congestion. We propose a network-wide pedestrian flow model based on the modified cell transmission model which describes the link flow as ordinary differential equations. The network flow control model (NFCM) is proposed to limit the number of pedestrians in a network according to the level-of-service requirements; however, the NFCM cannot ensure the uniform link density which is a premise of using NFCM. As a solution, the link flow control model (LFCM) is proposed to adjust the walking speed of pedestrians to realize the uniform link density. The NFCM provides the inputs for the LFCM and the LFCM compensates the deficiency of NFCM. Both NFCM and LFCM control the pedestrian flow in a cooperative way, and thus they form the hierarchical feedback control model (HFCM) of network-wide pedestrian flow. At last, the proposed HFCM is applied to control the crowd of a hall and the comparison of the simulation results in the controlled and uncontrolled scenarios shows that the proposed HFCM has the capability to suggest the optimal link inflows and walking speeds in real time to meet the LOS requirement.
Phytochemical and Antinociceptive, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Studies of Smilax larvata (Smilacaceae)
Authors: Hirota Beatriz Cristina Konopatzki , Paula Cristiane da Silva , Oliveira Vinícius Bednarczuk de , da Cunha Joice Maria , Schreiber Anne Karoline , Ocampos Fernanda Maria Marins , Barison Anderson , Miguel Obdulio Gomes , Miguel Marilis Dallarmi
Published: December 2016

The tea of aerial parts of Smilax larvata Griseb. (Smilacaceae) has been ethnopharmacologically used in Southern Brazil due to its anti‐inflammatory action. In this study, ethanolic and organic extracts from aerial parts of S. larvata were phytochemically and pharmacologically characterized. The phytochemical analysis of EtOAc extract of S. larvata revealed the presence of three flavonoids, drabanemoroside, kaempferol 3‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl(1→2)‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranoside, and kaempferol, the first two being isolated for the first time in this genus, two phenolic compounds p-hydroxybenzoic acid and p-coumaric acid, and alkaloids. In vitro assays demonstrated a potential antioxidant property of SLG. The treatment with SLG induced a significant reduction of the formalin‐evoked flinches in rats, an effect reversed by opioid antagonist naloxone. Treatment with SLG also induced a significant increase in the hot plate latency and a decrease of intestinal motility by 45%. No effect was observed over nociceptive responses induced by a TRPA1 agonist mustard oil or over acetic acid‐induced writhing in mice. Together, our data suggested that SLG has an in vivo antinociceptive effect, which seems to be associated with the opioid system activation. These findings support previous claims of medical use of Smilax larvata in the treatment of pain conditions.
MicroRNA-194 Promotes Prostate Cancer Metastasis by Inhibiting SOCS2
Authors: Das Rajdeep , Gregory Philip A. , Fernandes Rayzel C. , Denis Iza , Wang Qingqing , Townley Scott L. , Zhao Shuang G. , Hanson Adrienne R. , Pickering Marie A. , Armstrong Heather K. , Lokman Noor A. , Ebrahimie Esmaeil , Davicioni Elai , Jenkins Robert B. , Karnes R. Jeffrey , Ross Ashley E. , Den Robert B. , Klein Eric A. , Chi Kim N. , Ramshaw Hayley S. , Williams Elizabeth D. , Zoubeidi Amina , Goodall Gregory J. , Feng Felix Y. , Butler Lisa M. , Tilley Wayne D. , Selth Luke A.
Published: December 2016

Serum levels of miR-194 have been reported to predict prostate cancer recurrence after surgery, but its functional contributions to this disease have not been studied. Herein, it is demonstrated that miR-194 is a driver of prostate cancer metastasis. Prostate tissue levels of miR-194 were associated with disease aggressiveness and poor outcome. Ectopic delivery of miR-194 stimulated migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition in human prostate cancer cell lines, and stable overexpression of miR-194 enhanced metastasis of intravenous and intraprostatic tumor xenografts. Conversely, inhibition of miR-194 activity suppressed the invasive capacity of prostate cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic investigations identified the ubiquitin ligase suppressor of cytokine signaling 2 (SOCS2) as a direct, biologically relevant target of miR-194 in prostate cancer. Low levels of SOCS2 correlated strongly with disease recurrence and metastasis in clinical specimens. SOCS2 downregulation recapitulated miR-194–driven metastatic phenotypes, whereas overexpression of a nontargetable SOCS2 reduced miR-194–stimulated invasion. Targeting of SOCS2 by miR-194 resulted in derepression of the oncogenic kinases FLT3 and JAK2, leading to enhanced ERK and STAT3 signaling. Pharmacologic inhibition of ERK and JAK/STAT pathways reversed miR-194–driven phenotypes. The GATA2 transcription factor was identified as an upstream regulator of miR-194, consistent with a strong concordance between GATA2 and miR-194 levels in clinical specimens. Overall, these results offer new insights into the molecular mechanisms of metastatic progression in prostate cancer. Cancer Res; 77(4); 1021–34. ©2016 AACR.
18F-Fluoroestradiol PET/CT Measurement of Estrogen Receptor Suppression during a Phase I Trial of the Novel Estrogen Receptor-Targeted Therapeutic GDC-0810: Using an Imaging Biomarker to Guide Drug Dosage in Subsequent Trials
Authors: Wang Yingbing , Ayres Karen L. , Goldman Debra A. , Dickler Maura N. , Bardia Aditya , Mayer Ingrid A. , Winer Eric , Fredrickson Jill , Arteaga Carlos L. , Baselga José , Manning Henry C. , Mahmood Umar , Ulaner Gary A.
Published: December 2016

Purpose: Evaluate 18F-fluoroestradiol (FES) PET/CT as a biomarker of estrogen receptor (ER) occupancy and/or downregulation during phase I dose escalation of the novel ER targeting therapeutic GDC-0810 and help select drug dosage for subsequent clinical trials.

Experimental Design: In a phase I clinical trial of GDC-0810, patients with ER-positive metastatic breast cancer underwent FES PET/CT before beginning therapy and at cycle 2, day 3 of GDC-0810 therapy. Up to five target lesions were selected per patient, and FES standardized uptake value (SUV) corrected for background was recorded for each lesion pretherapy and on-therapy. Complete ER downregulation was defined as ≥90% decrease in FES SUV. The effect of prior tamoxifen and fulvestrant therapy on FES SUV was assessed.

Results: Of 30 patients who underwent paired FES-PET scans, 24 (80%) achieved ≥90% decrease in FES avidity, including 1 of 3 patients receiving 200 mg/day, 2 of 4 patients receiving 400 mg/day, 14 of 16 patients receiving 600 mg/day, and 7 of 7 patients receiving 800 mg/day. Withdrawal of tamoxifen 2 months prior to FES PET/CT and withdrawal of fulvestrant 6 months prior to FES PET/CT both appeared sufficient to prevent effects on FES SUV. A dosage of 600 mg GDC-0810 per day was selected for phase II in part due to decreases in FES SUV achieved in phase I.

Conclusions: FES PET/CT was a useful biomarker of ER occupancy and/or downregulation in a phase I dose escalation trial of GDC-0810 and helped select the dosage of the ER antagonist/degrader for phase II trials. Clin Cancer Res; 23(12); 3053–60. ©2016 AACR.
Chronic effects of air pollution on lung function after lung transplantation in the Systems prediction of Chronic Lung Allograft Dysfunction (SysCLAD) study
Authors: Benmerad Meriem , Slama Rémy , Botturi Karine , Claustre Johanna , Roux Antoine , Sage Edouard , Reynaud-Gaubert Martine , Gomez Carine , Kessler Romain , Brugière Olivier , Mornex Jean-François , Mussot Sacha , Dahan Marcel , Boussaud Véronique , Danner-Boucher Isabelle , Dromer Claire , Knoop Christiane , Auffray Annick , Lepeule Johanna , Malherbe Laure , Meleux Frederik , Nicod Laurent , Magnan Antoine , Pison Christophe , Siroux Valérie
Published: December 2016

An irreversible loss in lung function limits the long-term success in lung transplantation. We evaluated the role of chronic exposure to ambient air pollution on lung function levels in lung transplant recipients (LTRs).

The lung function of 520 LTRs from the Cohort in Lung Transplantation (COLT) study was measured every 6 months. The levels of air pollutants (nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter with an aerodynamic cut-off diameter of x µm (PMx) and ozone (O3)) at the patients' home address were averaged in the 12 months before each spirometry test. The effects of air pollutants on forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) in % predicted were estimated using mixed linear regressions. We assessed the effect modification of macrolide antibiotics in this relationship.

Increased 12-month levels of pollutants were associated with lower levels of FVC % pred (−2.56%, 95% CI −3.86–−1.25 for 5 µg·m−3of PM10; −0.75%, 95% CI −1.38–−0.12 for 2 µg·m−3of PM2.5and −2.58%, 95% CI −4.63–−0.53 for 10 µg·m−3of NO2). In patients not taking macrolides, the deleterious association between PM and FVC tended to be stronger and PM10was associated with lower FEV1.

Our study suggests a deleterious effect of chronic exposure to air pollutants on lung function levels in LTRs, which might be modified with macrolides.
Risk of cardiovascular disease among patients with sarcoidosis: a population-based retrospective cohort study, 1976–2013
Authors: Ungprasert Patompong , Crowson Cynthia S. , Matteson Eric L.
Published: December 2016

A higher incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been observed in several chronic inflammatory diseases. However, data on sarcoidosis are limited.

In this study, 345 patients with incident sarcoidosis in Olmsted County (Minnesota, USA) during 1976–2013 were identified based on comprehensive medical record review. 345 sex- and age-matched comparators were also identified from the same underlying population. Medical records were individually reviewed for CVD, including coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation, cerebrovascular accident, transient ischaemic attack, peripheral arterial disease and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Cox proportional hazards models with adjustment for age, sex, calendar year and cardiovascular risk factors were used to compare the rate of development of CVD between cases and comparators.

The prevalence of CVD before the index date was not significantly different between the two groups. Adjusting for age, sex and calendar year, the risk of incident CVD after the index date was significantly elevated among patients with sarcoidosis with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.57 (95% CI 1.15–2.16). Adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors yielded an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.65 (95% CI 1.08–2.53). Significantly increased risk was also observed for several types of CVD, including coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation and cerebrovascular accident.

Increased incidence of CVD among patients with sarcoidosis was demonstrated in this population-based cohort, even after controlling for baseline traditional atherosclerotic risk factors.
Lipid droplet dynamics during Schizosaccharomyces pombe sporulation and their role in spore survival
Authors: Yang Hui-Ju , Osakada Hiroko , Kojidani Tomoko , Haraguchi Tokuko , Hiraoka Yasushi
Published: December 2016

Upon nitrogen starvation, the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe forms dormant spores; however, the mechanisms by which a spore sustains life without access to exogenous nutrients remain unclear. Lipid droplets are reservoirs of neutral lipids that act as important cellular energy resources. By using live-cell imaging analysis, we found that the lipid droplets of mother cells redistribute to their nascent spores. Notably, this process was actin polymerization-dependent and facilitated by the leading edge proteins of the forespore membrane. Spores lacking triacylglycerol synthesis, which is essential for lipid droplet formation, failed to germinate. Our results suggest that the lipid droplets are important for the sustenance of life in spores.
The energetic cost of filtration by demosponges and their behavioural response to ambient currents
Authors: Ludeman Danielle A. , Reidenbach Matthew A. , Leys Sally P.
Published: December 2016

Sponges (Porifera) are abundant in most marine and freshwater ecosystems and as suspension feeders they play a crucial role in filtering the water column. Their active pumping enables them to filter up to 900 times their body volume of water per hour, recycling nutrients and coupling a pelagic food supply with benthic communities. Despite the ecological importance of sponge filter feeding, little is known about how sponges control the water flow through their canal system or how much energy it costs to filter the water. Sponges have long been considered textbook examples of animals that use current-induced flow. We provide evidence which suggests that some species of demosponge do not use current-induced flow, rather they respond behaviourally to increased ambient currents by reducing the volume of water filtered. Using a morphometric model of the canal system, we also show that filter feeding may be more energetically costly than previously thought. Measurements of volumetric flow rates and oxygen removal in five species of demosponge show that pumping rates are variable within and between species, with more oxygen consumed the greater the volume filtered. Together these data suggest that sponges have active control over the volume of water they process, which may be an adaptation to reduce the energetic cost of filtration in times of high stress.
Evolution of vocal patterns: tuning hindbrain circuits during species divergence
Authors: Barkan Charlotte L. , Zornik Erik , Kelley Darcy B.
Published: December 2016

The neural circuits underlying divergent courtship behaviors of closely related species provide a framework for insight into the evolution of motor patterns. In frogs, male advertisement calls serve as unique species identifiers and females prefer conspecific to heterospecific calls. Advertisement calls of three relatively recently (∼8.5mya) diverged species - Xenopus laevis, X. petersii and X. victorianus - include rapid trains of sound pulses (fast trills). We show that while fast trills are similar in pulse rate (∼60 pulses/second) across the 3 species, they differ in call duration and period (time from onset of call to the onset of the following call). Previous studies of call production in X. laevis used an isolated brain preparation in which the laryngeal nerve produces compound action potentials that correspond to the advertisement call pattern (fictive calling). Here, we show that serotonin evokes fictive calling in X. petersii and X victorianus as it does in X. laevis. As in X. laevis, fictive fast trill in X. petersii and X victorianus is accompanied by an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-dependent local field potential wave in a rostral hindbrain nucleus, DTAM. Across the three species, wave duration and period are strongly correlated with species-specific fast trill duration and period, respectively. When DTAM is isolated from the more rostral forebrain and midbrain and/or more caudal laryngeal motor nucleus, the wave persists at species-typical durations and periods. Thus, intrinsic differences within DTAM could be responsible for the evolutionary divergence of call patterns across these related species.
Diet-induced covariation between architectural and physicochemical plasticity in an extended phenotype
Authors: Blamires Sean J. , Hasemore Matthew , Martens Penny J. , Kasumovic Michael M.
Published: December 2016

The adaptive benefits of extended phenotypic plasticity are imprecisely defined due to a paucity of experiments examining traits that are manipulable and measurable across environments. Spider webs are often used as models to explore the adaptive benefits of variations in extended phenotypes across environments. Nonetheless, our understanding of the adaptive nature of the plastic responses of spider webs is impeded when web architectures and silk physicochemical properties appear to co-vary. An opportunity to examine this co-variation is presented by modifying prey items while measuring web architectures and silk physiochemical properties. Here we performed two experiments to assess the nature of the association between web architectures and gluey silk properties when the orb web spider Argiope keyserlingi was fed a diet that varied in either mass and energy or prey size and feeding frequency. We found web architectures and gluey silk physicochemical properties to co-vary across treatments in both experiments. Specifically, web capture area co-varied with gluey droplet morphometrics, thread stickiness and salt concentrations when prey mass and energy were manipulated, and spiral spacing co-varied with gluey silk salt concentrations when prey size and feeding frequency were manipulated. We explained our results as A. keyserlingi plastically shifting its foraging strategy as multiple prey parameters simultaneously varied. We confirmed and extended previous work by showing that spiders use a variety of prey cues to concurrently adjust web and silk traits across different feeding regimes.
The Lombard effect emerges early in young bats: Implications for the development of audio-vocal integration
Authors: Luo Jinhong , Lingner Andrea , Firzlaff Uwe , Wiegrebe Lutz
Published: December 2016

Auditory feedback plays an important role in vocal learning and, more generally, in fine-tuning the acoustic features of communication signals. So far, only a few studies have assessed the developmental onset of auditory feedback. The Lombard effect, a well-studied audio-vocal phenomenon, refers to an increase in vocal loudness of a subject in response to an increase in background noise. Here, we studied the time course of the Lombard effect in developing bats, Phyllostomus discolor. We show that infant bats produced louder vocalizations in noise than in silence at an age of only two weeks. In contrast, the infant bats' morphology and vocalizations changed gradually until two months of age. Furthermore, we found that the Lombard magnitude, i.e. how much the bats increased their vocal loudness in noise relative to silence, correlated positively with the age of the infant bats. We conclude that the Lombard effect features an early developmental origin, indicating a fast maturation of the underlying neural circuits for audio-vocal feedback.
Evaluation and Characterization of Tensile Properties of Short Coated Carbon Fiber Reinforced Aluminium7075 AlloyMetal Matrix Composites via Liquid Stir Casting Method
Authors: Suhas Suhas , Quadros Jaimon , Vaishak N. L
Published: December 2016

The interface between the reinforcement and the matrix has a significant role in enhancing the property of the composite. In this work to increase the wetting ability of the reinforcement, nickel coating is done over the carbon fiber. The process of coating is carried out through three stages. It involves sensitization time, activation time and metallization time. Using the optimized time interval of the above process coating is done, on the fiber of range 0.6 to 1 micrometer. This coated fiber has the good cohesive property within each other, which increases the wettability. Stir casting process is carried out with the stirring speed of 200 rpm and the melting temperature about 780-8000C is used for the manufacturing of the composite. The results of this study revealed that, as the short coated carbon content was increased, there were significant increases in the Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS). Furthermore, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used in order to coordinate relationships between quality of the carbon fiber and aluminium alloy bond and thereby link with tensile properties of the metal matrix composites. The metal matrix composites are a very important role in the industries such as aerospace, automobile and sports equipment etc. The aluminium material is considered to be a light weight metal, to enhance the property of the aluminium 7075 alloy, the short coated carbon fibers added to the aluminium as a reinforcement.
C orrosion Studies on Tinned Iron Plates From Infant Food Cans
Authors: Upadhyay Anima , Chandrakala M
Published: December 2016

The corrosion on smooth tinned iron material has been studied in different media. Solutions of sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid, acetic acid and salt solutions of ammonium chloride and sodium chloride were prepared to investigate the corrosion on the metal plates. The plates was immersed in the solutions for a period of time same for all the solutions in order to determine the most aggressive environment. Weight loss technique was adopted to study the rate of corrosion. The result reveals that the material got corroded in this order sulphuric acid > hydrochloric acid > acetic acid > ammonium chloride > sodium chloride. It was therefore concluded that the rate of corrosion was high in strong acids compared to the weak acids and salts.
Analysis of AC-Conductivity in Chalcogenide Ge10Se20 Bi80Thin Film
Authors: Srivastav Shiveom
Published: December 2016

The alloy Ge10Se20 Bi80 has been prepared. Thin films of Ge10Se20 Bi80 has been prepared via a thermal evaporation method (melt quenching technique) with 3000A thickness, and rate of deposition (4.1) A/sec at pressure 2x10-5 Torr. The A.C electrical conductivity of a- thin films Ge10Se20 Bi80 has been studied as a function of frequency for annealing temperature within the range (423-623) K, the deduced exponent s values, was found to decrease with increasing of annealing temperature through the frequency of the range (102-106) Hz. It was found that, the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) is the dominant conduction mechanism. Values of dielectric constant ε1 and dielectric loss ε2 were found to decrease with frequency and increase with temperature. The activation energies have been calculated for the annealed thin films.
Variation in CCG policies for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Ryan D , Shaw A , Graham S , Mason W
Published: December 2016

Are CTS patients receiving equal standards of care across the country?
Confidentiality
Authors: Wheeler Robert
Published: December 2016

Each month we take a close look at a recent legal case with implications for the surgical profession.
from Westminster
Authors: Culliford Will
Published: December 2016

‘Please Sir, I want some more… money for the NHS?’
The secret to a litigation-free career
Authors: Simmons Gerald
Published: December 2016

Clue: More Mr Nice Guy.
Derivative load voltage and particle swarm optimization to determine optimum sizing and placement of shunt capacitor in improving line losses
Authors: Baiek Mohamed Milad , Esmaio Ahmad E. , Nizam Muhammad , Anwar Miftahul , Atia Hasan M.S.
Published: December 2016

The purpose of this research is to study optimal size and placement of shunt capacitor in order to minimize line loss. Derivative load bus voltage was calculated to determine the sensitive load buses which further being optimum with the placement of shunt capacitor. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) was demonstrated on the IEEE 14 bus power system to find optimum size of shunt capacitor in reducing line loss. The objective function was applied to determine the proper placement of capacitor and get satisfied solutions towards constraints. The simulation was run over Matlab under two scenarios namely base case and increasing 100% load. Derivative load bus voltage was simulated to determine the most sensitive load bus. PSO was carried out to determine the optimum sizing of shunt capacitor at the most sensitive bus. The results have been determined that the most sensitive bus was bus number 14 for the base case and increasing 100% load. The optimum sizing was 8.17 Mvar for the base case and 23.98 Mvar for increasing load about 100%. Line losses were able to reduce approximately 0.98% for the base case and increasing 100% load reduced about 3.16%. The proposed method was also proven as a better result compared with harmony search algorithm (HSA) method. HSA method recorded loss reduction ratio about 0.44% for the base case and 2.67% when the load was increased by 100% while PSO calculated loss reduction ratio about 1.12% and 4.02% for the base case and increasing 100% load respectively. The result of this study will support the previous study and it is concluded that PSO was successfully able to solve some engineering problems as well as to find a solution in determining shunt capacitor sizing on the power system simply and accurately compared with other evolutionary optimization methods.
Fuel consumption and CO2 emission investigation of range extender with diesel and gasoline engine
Authors: Wahono Bambang , Nur Arifin , Praptijanto Achmad , Santoso Widodo Budi , Suherman Suherman , Lu Zong
Published: December 2016

Range extender engine is one of the main components of the range-extended electric vehicle (REEV) and together with a generator to extend the mileage of the electric vehicle. The main component of REEV is an electric motor, battery, and generator set that consist of generator and engine. In this study, we compared two models of REEV performance with two different types of the engine by simulation. Single cylinder 499 cc gasoline engine and single cylinder 667 cc diesel engine are chosen as the object of this research especially relating to the utilization of the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions when fitted to an electric vehicle. The simulation was conducted by using AVL Cruise software and performed by entering the data, both experiment and simulation data, on all the main components of REEV. This simulation was performed in Japan 08 driving cycle. Based on the simulation, fuel consumption is reduced up to 35.59% for REEV with single cylinder diesel engine 667 cc compared to REEV with single cylinder gasoline engine 499 cc. The reduction of CO2 emissions from REEV with single cylinder 499 cc gasoline engine compared to REEV with single cylinder 667 cc diesel engine up to 30.47%.
Entrevista Veras: Maria Malta Campos
Authors: Prado Ricardo , Gomes Lisandra Ogg
Published: December 2016

“Na Educação Infantil, o que funciona é formação em contexto”
Apresentação - Dossiê Educação Infantil
Authors: Abuchaim Beatriz , Ferreira Marisa Vasconcelos
Published: December 2016

Estudos sobre currículo, formação de professores e gestão na Educação Infantil em pesquisas orientadas por Maria Machado Malta CamposEste dossiê sobre Educação Infantil resulta do interesse de compilar trabalhos de pesquisa orientados pela professora doutora Maria Malta Campos no Programa de Pós-Graduação em Educação: Currículo da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo. [...]
Integração curricular em programas de formação de professores: aspectos do projeto curricular do PEC -Formação Universitária Municípios
Authors: Ferreira Marisa Vasconcelos
Published: December 2016

A partir da análise do projeto curricular de um programa de formação docente, buscou-se identificar dispositivos de integração curricular em suas diferentes dimensões. Foram identificados os seguintes dispositivos: caráter interinstitucional do programa, presença contínua de formadores, articulação de diferentes mídias e modalidades de atividades. Observou-se a ausência ou fragilidade de dispositivos, dentre estes: ausência de participação dos formadores e alunos-professores na construção do currículo e ênfase em uma concepção de autonomia individual. A reflexão sobre a experiência indica condições a serem observadas no planejamento de currículos de formação, além de desafios na proposição de políticas educacionais de formação docente pautadas pela integração e continuidade.
O cuidado na educação infantil na fala de alunas-professoras
Authors: Teixeira Mônica Ulson Brandão
Published: December 2016

O termo cuidado é complexo e abriga inúmeras ambiguidades. Uma das formas possíveis de olhar para esse tema é por meio da perspectiva de professoras de Educação Infantil que, estando também na posição de alunas de um curso de formação continuada, têm a possibilidade de dizer de um cuidado vivenciado segundo as duas óticas. O trabalho buscou compreender significados e sentidos dados ao cuidado por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica e de análise qualitativa de cinco entrevistas. Para as entrevistadas, o significado de cuidado possui estreita relação com o ato de educar. No cotidiano, a prática das pesquisadas está mais focada no desenvolvimento e na formação das crianças. No papel de alunas, as pesquisadas perceberam o cuidado principalmente como estabelecimento de vínculos.