bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monte Carlo simulations of secondary electron emission due to ion beam milling
Authors: Mahady Kyle , Tan Shida , Greenzweig Yuval , Livengood Richard , Raveh Amir , Fowlkes Jason D. , Rack Philip
Published: July 2017

The authors present a Monte Carlo simulation study of secondary electron (SE) emission resulting from focused ion beam milling of a copper target. The basis of this study is a simulation code which simulates ion induced excitation and emission of secondary electrons, in addition to simulating focused ion beam sputtering and milling. This combination of features permits the simulation of the interaction between secondary electron emission, and the evolving target geometry as the ion beam sputters material. Previous ion induced SE Monte Carlo simulation methods have been restricted to predefined target geometries, while the dynamic target in the presented simulations makes this study relevant to image formation in ion microscopy, and chemically assisted ion beam etching, where the relationship between sputtering, and its effects on secondary electron emission, is important. The authors focus on a copper target and validate the simulation method against experimental data for a range of noble gas ions, ion energies, ion/substrate angles, and the energy distribution of the secondary electrons. The authors then provide a detailed account of the emission of secondary electrons resulting from ion beam milling; the authors quantify both the evolution of the yield as high aspect ratio valleys are milled, as well as the emission of electrons within these valleys that do not escape the target, but which are important to the secondary electron contribution to chemically assisted ion induced etching.
Relatedness Need Satisfaction, Intrinsic Motivation, and Engagement in Secondary School Physical Education
Authors: Xiang Ping , Ağbuğa Bülent , Liu Jiling , McBride Ron E.
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

Using self-determination theory, this study examined unique contributions of relatedness need satisfaction (to both teachers and peers) to intrinsic motivation and engagement (behavioral, cognitive, and emotional) over and above those of autonomy need satisfaction and competence need satisfaction among Turkish students in secondary school physical education.

Method:

Participants were 331 (162 boys, 169 girls) middle and high school students enrolled in physical education classes at four public schools in the southwest Turkey. Data were collected by previously validated questionnaires.

Results:

No gender differences occurred in the mean levels of relatedness to teachers need satisfaction and relatedness to peers need satisfaction. These two types of relatedness need satisfaction made significant unique contributions to student engagement for both boys and girls. The differential roles of relatedness to peers need satisfaction in predicting boys’ and girls’ engagement were observed.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Discussion/Conclusion: The study demonstrated that two types of relatedness need satisfaction uniquely predicted students’ engagement in a secondary school physical education setting. This finding supports self-determination theory that relatedness need satisfaction is an important motivator for students in schools.
Systematic Therapeutic Drug Monitoring for Linezolid: Variability and Clinical Impact
Authors: Galar Alicia , Valerio Maricela , Muñoz Patricia , Alcalá Luis , García-González Xandra , Burillo Almudena , Sanjurjo María , Grau Santiago , Bouza Emilio
Published: July 2017

Linezolid serum trough (
C
min
) and peak (
C
max
) levels were determined prospectively in 90 patients. Adequate exposure was defined as a
C
min
of 2 to 8 mg/liter. Therapy was empirical (73.3%) or targeted (26.7%). Wide interindividual variability in linezolid
C
min
levels was recorded (0.1 to 25.2 μg/ml). Overall, 65.5% of the patients had out-of-range, 41.1% had subtherapeutic, and 24.4% had supratherapeutic trough levels. We did not find a correlation between abnormal levels and adverse events, in-hospital mortality, or overall poor outcome.
Unraveling Drug Penetration of Echinocandin Antifungals at the Site of Infection in an Intra-abdominal Abscess Model
Authors: Zhao Yanan , Prideaux Brendan , Nagasaki Yoji , Lee Min Hee , Chen Pei-Yu , Blanc Landry , Ho Hsinpin , Clancy Cornelius J. , Nguyen Minh Hong , Dartois Véronique , Perlin David S.
Published: July 2017

Intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC) is a prominent invasive fungal infection associated with high mortality. Prompt antifungal therapy and source control are crucial for successful treatment. Echinocandin antifungal drugs are first-line agents; however, their clinical effectiveness is highly variable, with known potential for breakthrough resistance, and little is known about drug exposure at the site of infection. Using matrix-assisted desorption ionization mass spectrometry imaging technology, we investigated the spatial and quantitative distribution in tissue lesions for two echinocandin drugs, micafungin and CD101, in a clinically relevant IAC mouse model. Drug accumulation within lesions was observed with both drugs at their humanized therapeutic doses. CD101, but not micafungin, accumulated in lesions at levels above the mutant prevention concentration of the infecting strain. These findings indicate that current echinocandin drugs are limited by penetration at the site of infection and have implications for clinical outcomes and emergence of resistance in patients with IAC.
Epigenetic Mechanisms Regulate Innate Immunity against Uropathogenic and Commensal-Like Escherichia coli in the Surrogate Insect Model Galleria mellonella
Authors: Heitmueller Miriam , Billion André , Dobrindt Ulrich , Vilcinskas Andreas , Mukherjee Krishnendu
Published: July 2017

Innate-immunity-related genes in humans are activated during urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by pathogenic strains of
Escherichia coli
but are suppressed by commensals. Epigenetic mechanisms play a pivotal role in the regulation of gene expression in response to environmental stimuli. To determine whether epigenetic mechanisms can explain the different behaviors of pathogenic and commensal bacteria, we infected larvae of the greater wax moth,
Galleria mellonella
, a widely used model insect host, with a uropathogenic
E. coli
(UPEC) strain that causes symptomatic UTIs in humans or a commensal-like strain that causes asymptomatic bacteriuria (ABU). Infection with the UPEC strain (CFT073) was more lethal to larvae than infection with the attenuated ABU strain (83972) due to the recognition of each strain by different Toll-like receptors, ultimately leading to differential DNA/RNA methylation and histone acetylation. We used next-generation sequencing and reverse transcription (RT)-PCR to correlate epigenetic changes with the induction of innate-immunity-related genes. Transcriptomic analysis of
G. mellonella
larvae infected with
E. coli
strains CFT073 and 83972 revealed strain-specific variations in the class and expression levels of genes encoding antimicrobial peptides, cytokines, and enzymes controlling DNA methylation and histone acetylation. Our results provide evidence for the differential epigenetic regulation of transcriptional reprogramming by UPEC and ABU strains of
E. coli
in
G. mellonella
larvae, which may be relevant to understanding the different behaviors of these bacterial strains in the human urinary tract.
Mouse Bone Marrow Sca-1
+
CD44
+
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Kill Avirulent Mycobacteria but Not Mycobacterium tuberculosis through Modulation of Cathelicidin Expression via the p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Naik Sumanta Kumar , Padhi Avinash , Ganguli Geetanjali , Sengupta Srabasti , Pati Sanghamitra , Das Dasarathi , Sonawane Avinash
Published: July 2017

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
primarily infects lung macrophages. However, a recent study showed that
M. tuberculosis
also infects and persists in a dormant form inside bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) even after successful antibiotic therapy. However, the mechanism(s) by which
M. tuberculosis
survives in BM-MSCs is still not known. Like macrophages, BM-MSCs do not contain a well-defined endocytic pathway, which is known to play a central role in the clearance of internalized mycobacteria. Here, we studied the fate of virulent and avirulent mycobacteria in Sca-1
+
CD44
+
BM-MSCs. We found that BM-MSCs were able to kill avirulent
Mycobacterium smegmatis
and
Mycobacterium bovis
BCG but not the pathogenic species
M. tuberculosis
. Further mechanistic studies revealed that pathogenic
M. tuberculosis
dampens the antibacterial response of BM-MSCs by downregulating the expression of the cationic antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin. In contrast, avirulent mycobacteria were effectively killed by inducing the Toll-like receptor 2/4 (TLR2/4) pathway-dependent expression of cathelicidin, while small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated cathelicidin silencing increased the survival of
M. bovis
BCG in BM-MSCs. We also showed that
M. bovis
BCG infection caused increased expression levels of MyD88, phospho-interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (pIRAK-4), and the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway. Further downstream investigations demonstrated that IRAK-4–p38 activation increased the nuclear translocation of NF-κB, which subsequently induced the expression of cathelicidin and the cytokine interleukin-1β (IL-1β), resulting in the decreased survival of
M. bovis
BCG. On the other hand, inhibition of TLR2/4, pIRAK-4, p38, and NF-κB nuclear translocation decreased cathelicidin and IL-1β expression levels and therefore increased the survival of avirulent mycobacteria. This is the first report that demonstrates that virulent mycobacteria manipulate the TLR2/4–MyD88–IRAK-4–p38–NF-κB–Camp–IL-1β pathway to survive inside bone marrow stem cells.
Robot-assisted surgery in a broader healthcare perspective: a difference-in-difference-based cost analysis of a national prostatectomy cohort
Authors: Hyldgård Vibe Bolvig , Laursen Karin Rosenkilde , Poulsen Johan , Søgaard Rikke
Published: July 2017

Objective

To estimate costs attributable to robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) as compared with open prostatectomy (OP) and laparoscopic prostatectomies (LP) in a National Health Service perspective.

Patients and methods

Register-based cohort study of 4309 consecutive patients who underwent prostatectomy from 2006 to 2013 (2241 RALP, 1818 OP and 250 LP). Patients were followed from 12 months before to 12 months after prostatectomy with respect to service use in primary care (general practitioners, therapists, specialists etc) and hospitals (inpatient and outpatient activity related to prostatectomy and comorbidity). Tariffs of the activity-based remuneration system for primary care and the Diagnosis-Related Grouping case-mix system for hospital-based care were used to value service use. Costs attributable to RALP were estimated using a difference-in-difference analytical approach and adjusted for patient-level and hospital-level risk selection using multilevel regression.

Results

No significant effect of RALP on resource-use was observed except for a marginally lower use of primary care and fewer bed days as compared with OP (not LP). The overall cost consequence of RALP was estimated at an additional €2459 (95% CI 1377 to 3540, p=0.003) as compared with OP and an additional €3860 (95% CI 559 to 7160, p=0.031) as compared with LP, mainly due to higher cost intensity during the index admissions.

Conclusions

In this study from the Danish context, the use of RALP generates a factor 1.3 additional cost when compared with OP and a factor 1.6 additional cost when compared with LP, on average, based on 12 months follow-up. The policy interpretation is that the use of robots for prostatectomy should be driven by clinical superiority and that formal effectiveness analysis is required to determine whether the current and eventual new purchasing of robot capacity is best used for prostatectomy.
Role of vitamin A oral supplementation on oxidative stress and inflammatory response in the liver of trained rats
Authors: Petiz Lyvia Lintzmaier , Kunzler Alice , Bortolin Rafael Calixto , Gasparotto Juciano , Matté Cristiane , Moreira José Claudio Fonseca , Gelain Daniel Pens
Published: July 2017

The use of dietary supplements to enhance the benefit of exercise training is a common practice. The liver is the organ where all substances are metabolized, and certain supplements have been associated with liver injury. Vitamin A (VA), a liposoluble vitamin stored in the liver, is commonly used as an antioxidant supplement. Here, we evaluated the effect of chronic VA supplementation on oxidative damage and stress parameters in trained rats. Animals were divided into the following groups: sedentary (SE), sedentary/VA (SE+VA), exercise training (ET), and exercise training/VA (ET+VA). During 8 weeks, animals were subjected to swimming (0%, 2%, 4%, 6% body weight) for 5 days/week and a VA daily intake of 450 retinol equivalents/day. Parameters were evaluated by enzymatic activity analysis, ELISA, and Western blotting. VA caused liver lipid peroxidation and protein damage in exercised rats and inhibited the increase in HSP70 expression acquired with exercise alone. The ET group showed higher levels of antioxidant enzyme activity, and VA inhibited this adaptation. Expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α was reduced in the ET+VA group, while the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10, was increased. Western blotting showed that both exercised groups had lower levels of the receptor for advanced glycation end products, suggesting that VA did not affect this receptor. Our study demonstrated that, although VA caused oxidative damage, a controlled administration might exert anti-inflammatory effects. Further studies with higher VA doses and longer ET interventions would elucidate more the effects of the supplementation and exercise on liver parameters.
Lophodermium resinosum sp. nov. from red pine (Pinus resinosa) in Eastern Canada
Authors: Tanney Joey B. , Seifert Keith A.
Published: July 2017

A morphologically distinct Lophodermium species was collected from fallen secondary needles of Pinus resinosa Aiton over two consecutive years in Eastern Ontario; subsequent herbarium studies confirmed its presence in Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Maine. Symptomatic needles frequently exhibited red bands and completely subepidermal ascomata and conidiomata. Ascospore isolates from specimens were used to reconstruct phylogenies inferred from internal transcribed spacer rDNA and partial actin gene sequences. Both phylogenetic analyses delineated the specimens from other sequenced Lophodermium species. Phylogenetic evidence combined with morphological characters of ascomata and conidiomata supported the distinctiveness of this species, described here as Lophodermium resinosum sp. nov.
Satisfying rival forestry objectives in the Komi Republic: effects of Russian zoning policy change on wood production and riparian forest conservation
Authors: Naumov Vladimir , Angelstam Per , Elbakidze Marine
Published: July 2017

Spatial segregation of different forest landscape functions can accommodate rival forestry objectives more comprehensively than integrated approaches. Russia has a unique history of forest zoning separating production and environmental functions. However, the Russian Forest Code of 2006 increased the focus on wood production. We reviewed the history of zoning policy in Russia and assessed if the recent policy change affected logging rates and conservation of riparian forests. Using Russia’s Komi Republic as a case study, we specifically assessed (i) if policy change led to increased logging near streams, (ii) if logging rates were different in headwaters vs. main rivers, and (iii) how logging changed among catchments with different accessibility to logging. Using a global open-access remote sensing dataset, we compared mean annual forest loss as a proxy of logging rates in 10 large forested catchments in the Komi Republic in one period with strict zoning policy (2000–2006) and one with moderate zoning policy (2007–2014). Harvesting rate was positively related to the distance from streams. On the other hand, it increased after the policy change in the buffer zone but decreased outside it. Forests were harvested more in headwater buffers than along larger rivers, and harvest in the catchments near industries was higher and increasing; remote catchments had low forest loss. We discuss the opportunity for adopting forest zoning policy in different governance contexts.
Increased precipitation accelerates soil organic matter turnover associated with microbial community composition in topsoil of alpine grassland on the eastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Han Conghai , Wang Zongli , Si Guicai , Lei Tianzhu , Yuan Yanli , Zhang Gengxin
Published: July 2017

Large quantities of carbon are stored in alpine grassland of the Tibetan Plateau, which is extremely sensitive to climate change. However, it remains unclear whether soil organic matter (SOM) in different layers responds to climate change analogously, and whether microbial communities play vital roles in SOM turnover of topsoil. In this study we measured and collected SOM turnover by the 14C method in alpine grassland to test climatic effects on SOM turnover in soil profiles. Edaphic properties and microbial communities in the northwestern Qinghai Lake were investigated to explore microbial influence on SOM turnover. SOM turnover in surface soil (0–10 cm) was more sensitive to precipitation than that in subsurface layers (10–40 cm). Precipitation also imposed stronger effects on the composition of microbial communities in the surface layer than that in deeper soil. At the 5–10 cm depth, the SOM turnover rate was positively associated with the bacteria/fungi biomass ratio and the relative abundance of Acidobacteria, both of which are related to precipitation. Partial correlation analysis suggested that increased precipitation could accelerate the SOM turnover rate in topsoil by structuring soil microbial communities. Conversely, carbon stored in deep soil would be barely affected by climate change. Our results provide valuable insights into the dynamics and storage of SOM in alpine grasslands under future climate scenarios.
INVESTIGATION OF WEIGHT-BEARING SYMMETRY IN A GROUP OF ATHLETES WITH LOW BACK PAIN AND HEALTHY PEOPLE DURING GAIT
Authors: SADEGHISANI MEISSAM , SOBHANI VAHID , KABIR MAJID MOHSENI , ASNAASHARI ALI , RAHMANI PEYMAN , AZIMI HADI
Published: July 2017

The asymmetrical loading applied to legs was proposed as a risk factor for low back pain development. However, this proposed mechanical risk factor was not investigated in the athletes with LBP engaged in rotational demand activities. The aim of the present study was to examine symmetry of weight-bearing in patients with rotational demand activities compared to that in healthy people during gait. In total, 35 subjects, 15 males with LBP and 20 males without LBP, participated in the study. The participants were asked to walk 12 trials in gait lab. Forces applied to legs were recorded by a force plate. Then, the peaks of anteroposterior, mediolateral, and vertical forces were measured. Next, the asymmetrical loads applied to the legs were calculated. The results of our study demonstrated that people with LBP exhibit more asymmetry of vertical peak forces in heel strike and mid-stance. They also exhibited more asymmetry of loading in the anterior direction. But the mean values of ASI of mediolateral and posterior forces in these participants were not significantly different compared to those in the control group. It can be concluded that, in comparison to the healthy subjects, patients with LBP walk with a greater magnitude of asymmetrical weight-bearing at a comfortable speed.
INTRA-SESSION RELIABILITY AND REPEATABILITY OF KNEE KINEMATICS IN SUBJECTS WITH ACL DEFICIENCY DURING STAIR ASCENT
Authors: HAJIZADEH MARYAM , OSKOUEI ALIREZA HASHEMI , GHALICHI FARZAN , SOLE GISELA
Published: July 2017

Analysis of knee kinematics and ground reaction forces (GRFs) is widely used to determine compensatory mechanisms of people with anterior cruciate ligament deficiency (ACLD). However, the practicality of the measurements is subject to their reliability during different trials. This study aims to determine the reliability and repeatability of knee joint rotations and GRFs in people with ACLD during stair ascent. Eight participants with unilateral ACL-deficient knees performed five trials of stair ascent with each leg. The movements were captured by VICON motion analysis system, and GRF components were recorded using force plate. Three-dimensional tibiofemoral joint rotations were calculated. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM) and coefficient of multiple correlation (CMC) were calculated ACL-deficient legs showed lower absolute reliability during swing ([Formula: see text]–6.4) than stance phase ([Formula: see text]–2.2) for knee joint rotations. Moderate to high average measure ICCs (0.59–0.98), relative reliability, were achieved for injured and uninjured sides. The results also demonstrated high repeatability for the knee joint rotation ([Formula: see text]–0.97) and GRF ([Formula: see text]–0.99). The outcomes of this study confirmed the consistency and repeatability of the knee joint rotations and GRFs in ACL-deficient subjects. Additionally, ACL-deficient legs exhibited similar levels of reliability and repeatability compared to contralateral legs.
Viterbo’s transfer morphism for symplectomorphisms
Authors: Uljarevic Igor
Published: July 2017

We construct an analogue of Viterbo’s transfer morphism for Floer homology of an automorphism of a Liouville domain. As an application we prove that the Dehn–Seidel twist along any Lagrangian sphere in a Liouville domain of dimension [Formula: see text] has infinite order in the symplectic mapping class group.
Optimal Execution with Transient Impact
Authors: Dang Ngoc-Minh
Published: July 2017

We solve the optimal execution problem including transient market impact as proposed in Gatheral (2010), and minimize execution costs with a mean-variance functional. Using a non-classical result on calculus of variations, we obtain an integral equation characterizing the optimal strategy. It takes the form of a Fredholm integral equation of the second kind. We then provide a scheme to solve it numerically and verify indeed some no-arbitrage conditions.
A Study of Web Print
Authors: Koutrika Georgia , Lin Qian
Published: July 2017

This article analyzes a proprietary log of printed web pages and aims at answering questions regarding the content people print (what), the reasons they print (why), as well as attributes of their print profile (who). We present a classification of pages printed based on their print intent and we describe our methodology for processing the print dataset used in this study. In our analysis, we study the web sites, topics, and print intent of the pages printed along the following aspects: popularity, trends, activity, user diversity, and consistency. We present several findings that reveal interesting insights into printing. We analyze our findings and discuss their impact and directions for future work.
Effect of Surfactant on Growth of ZnO Nanodumbbells and Their Characterization
Authors: Eadi Sunil Babu , Kim Sungjin , Jeong Soon Wook
Published: July 2017

We report the controlled synthesis of dumbbell shaped ZnO micro/nanostructures using anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) by simple one-step hydrothermal method. The morphology changes of ZnO were characterized by using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. It is found that the size of the dumbbell increased with increase in concentration of SDS. Systematic growth mechanism with increase of concentration of SDS polymer is studied. Our results will help in the growing face selective ZnO for many functional applications.
Spinal Cord Injury due to Tumour or Metastasis in Aragón, Northeastern Spain (1991–2008): Incidence, Time Trends, and Neurological Function
Authors: van den Berg Maayken Elizabeth Louise , Castellote Juan M. , Mayordomo Jose Ignacio , Mahillo-Fernandez Ignacio , de Pedro-Cuesta Jesus
Published: July 2017

Purpose. Understanding the presentation of spinal cord injury (SCI) due to tumours considering population distribution and temporal trends is key to managing SCI health services. This study quantified incidence rates, function scores, and trends of SCI due to tumour or metastasis over an 18-year time period in a defined region in Spain. Methods. A retrospective cohort study included in-and outpatients with nontraumatic SCI due to tumour or metastasis admitted to a metropolitan hospital in Spain between 1991 and 2008. Main outcome measures were crude and age- and sex-adjusted incidence rates, tumour location and type, distribution by spinal level, neurological level of injury, and impairment ASIA scores. Results. Primary tumour or metastasis accounted for 32.5% of nontraumatic SCI with an incidence rate of 4.1 per million population. Increasing rates with age and over time were observed. Major pathology groups were intradural-extramedullary masses from which meningiomas and neurinomas accounted for 40%. Lesions were mostly incomplete with predominant ASIA Grade D. Conclusions. Increasing incidence rates of tumour-related SCI over time in the middle-aged and the elderly suggest a growing need for neurooncology health resources in the future.
The Bacteriological Quality, Safety, and Antibiogram ofSalmonellaIsolates from Fresh Meat in Retail Shops of Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia
Authors: Azage Melkamnesh , Kibret Mulugeta
Published: July 2017

The habit of raw meat consumption in addition to the poor hygienic standards and lack of knowledge contribute to food-borne diseases outbreaks. The objective of this research was to assess the bacterial quality and safety of fresh meat from retail Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia. A total of 30 fresh meat samples were collected from butcher shops. Standard bacteriological methods were used to isolate and enumerate bacteria. Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was used for antimicrobial susceptibility testing ofSalmonellaisolates. The mean counts of AMB, TC, andS. aureuswere log104.53, 3.97, and 3.88 log10cfu/g, respectively.Salmonellawas isolated from 21 (70%) of the samples.Salmonellaisolates in this study were highly susceptible to ciprofloxacin, gentamycin, and norfloxacin while they were resistant to erythromycin and tetracycline. High rate of multiple drug resistance was also noticed inSalmonellaisolates. The microbial loads of meat were above the recommended microbial safety limits. Besides this, the isolation rate ofSalmonellawas high and high levels of drug resistance were documented forSalmonellaisolates. Measures on handling and appropriate personal hygiene practices of workers in the retail shops are recommended to reduce the change of forborne disease outbreaks.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activities of 4-[(Halophenyl)diazenyl]phenol and 4-[(Halophenyl)diazenyl]phenyl Aspirinate Derivatives against Nasopharyngeal Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Ho Boon Kui , Ngaini Zainab , Matthew Neilsen Paul , Hwang Siaw San , Entigu Linton Reagan , Kong Ee Ling , Lee Boon Kiat
Published: July 2017

Aspirin and azo derivatives have been widely studied and have drawn considerable attention due to diverse biological activities. In this study, a series of 4-[(halophenyl)diazenyl]phenyl aspirinate derivatives were synthesized from the reaction of aspirin with 4-[(halophenyl)diazenyl]phenol via esterification, in the presence of DCC/DMAP in DCM with overall yield of 45–54%. 4-[(Halophenyl)diazenyl]phenol was prepared prior to esterification from coupling reaction of aniline derivatives and phenol in basic solution. All compounds were characterized using elemental analysis, FTIR, and 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopies. All compounds were screened for their anticancer activities against nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) HK-1 cell lines and the viability of cultured cells was determined by MTS [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxylmethoxylphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium]-based colorimetric assay. 4-[(E)-(Fluorophenyl)diazenyl]phenol showed the highest anticancer activity against NPC HK-1 cell lines compared to other synthesized compounds. 4-[(Halophenyl)diazenyl]phenyl aspirinate showed low cytotoxicity against NPC HK-1 cell lines compared to 4-[(halophenyl)diazenyl]phenol but better anticancer activity than aspirin alone.
An Improvement for Fuzzy Stochastic Goal Programming Problems
Authors: Lin Shu-Cheng , Tuan Han-Wen , Julian Peterson
Published: July 2017

We examined the solution process for linear programming problems under a fuzzy and random environment to transform fuzzy stochastic goal programming problems into standard linear programming problems. A previous paper that revised the solution process with the lower‐side attainment index motivated our work. In this paper, we worked on a revision for both‐side attainment index to amend its definition and theorems. Two previous examples were used to examine and demonstrate our improvement over previous results. Our findings not only improve the previous paper with both‐side attainment index, but also provide a theoretical extension from lower‐side attainment index to the both‐side attainment index.
The Burdens and Uncertainties of Doing What One Should Do
Authors: Vogel Victor G.
Published: July 2017

Despite FDA approval of drugs to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women at increased risk, uptake of these drugs has been poor despite the publication of numerous studies that demonstrate both their effectives and safety. National organizations have made recommendations for their use, but both physicians and their patients do not fully understand either breast cancer risk factors or risk assessment or the indications for using risk-reducing agents. Histologically predisposing conditions, such as ductal or lobular atypia and lobular carcinoma in situ, impart particularly high risks of developing subsequent invasive breast cancer. Resources should be committed to both provider and patient education to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women who are at increased risk. Cancer Prev Res; 10(8); 431–3. ©2017 AACR.
Dexamethason-Implantat - Potential für die Behandlung des diabetischen Makulaödems
Authors: Pleyer Uwe
Published: July 2017

Ziel: Ziel dieser Studie war die Beurteilung der Wirksamkeit eines einzelnen intravitrealen Dexamethason-Implantats (IDI) über 6 Monate in Augen mit chronischem diabetischem Makulaödem (DME), die auf eine intravitreale Behandlung mit Ranibizumab (IR) nicht angesprochen hatten. Methoden: Diese retrospektive Studie wurde an der Universitätsklinik Ondokuz Mayis in Samsun, Türkei, durchgeführt. Als Wirksamkeitsendpunkte wurden die Veränderung der besten korrigierten Sehschärfe (Visus c.c.) und der zentralen Makuladicke (CMT) untersucht. Ergebnisse: 30 Augen von 20 Patienten im mittleren Alter von 61,6 ± 8,8 (45-85) Jahren wurden in die Studie eingeschlossen. Der mittlere Visus c.c verbesserte sich signifikant von 0,68 ± 0,27 auf 0,56 ± 0,30 logMAR (p = 0,001) bzw. 0,57 ± 0,30 logMAR (p = 0,002) nach 1 bzw. 2 Monaten. Der Anteil der Patienten, deren Visus c.c. sich um 3 Zeilen oder mehr verbesserte, betrug 20%. Die mittlere CMT verringerte sich signifikant von 578,93 ± 17,95 μm zu Studienbeginn auf 282,10 ± 21,42, 292,26 ± 19,69, 371,70 ± 21,23 bzw. 463,60 ± 23,16 μm nach 1, 2, 3 bzw. 4 Monaten (p = 0,001). Der intraokulare Druck (IOD) stieg in 5 Augen (16,7%). Bei 3 von 23 phaken Augen (13%) wurde eine Kataraktoperation erforderlich. Schlussfolgerung: IDI bietet signifikanten Nutzen im Hinblick auf die Verbesserung der Sehschärfe und Anatomie bei IR-resistentem chronischem DME. Es kann bei IDI-behandelten Patienten zu IOD-Erhöhungen und Kataraktprogression kommen. Das Sicherheitsprofil ist jedoch akzeptabel.
Robot-Assisted Vesico-Vaginal Fistula Repair: Our Technique and Review of the Literature
Authors: Matei Deliu Victor , Zanagnolo Vanna , Vartolomei Mihai Dorin , Crisan Nicolae , Ferro Matteo , Bocciolone Luca , Maggioni Angelo , Coman Ioan , de Cobelli Ottavio , Istituto Europeo di Oncologia .
Published: July 2017

Objective: Our first objective was to report our experience on robot-assisted vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) repair after radical surgery for gynecologic malignancies without omental flap interposition using a da Vinci robotic system. The second objective was to critically review the literature in order to analyze surgical solutions used to avoid repair failure. Materials and Methods: Five patients with VVF diagnosed after previous open surgery for gynecologic malignancies referred to our tertiary institutions were selected. After an adequate oncologic follow-up, based on the fistula diameter and conservative management failure, robotic surgery repair was proposed. A bivalve 2-layer suturing technique was carried out without tissue interpositions; omentum was not available secondary to previous surgery including hysterectomy, ovaryectomy, and omentectomy and citoreductive peritoneomectomy. A systematic review of the literature was performed in December 2016 using the PubMed database with the following keywords: robotic, robot-assisted, vesico-vaginal, fistula repair. Results: Median age was 62 years (range 55-71) bearing long-lasting VVF were referred to our divisions. Median fistula diameter was 5 mm (range 3-8 mm). Fistula site was the trigone and identified during cystoscopy near the mid-line, left, and right urether meatus, respectively. The median overall and console operatory time were 250 and 120 min, respectively. Blood loss was insignificant (median 40 mL) and the median length of stay was 7 days without any complication. Ten papers were found fulfilling the mentioned criteria, from which 6 were case reports, single or multiple, accounting for the overall 41 robotic-approach-operated patients. Conclusion: The quality of the dissection and suture associated with efficient urine drainage are in our opinion the key elements of the success of our technique, which can be performed even without omentum or other tissue flap or graft interposition.
Bilaterale Makulopathie durch blauen Laserpointer: Ein pädiatrischer Fallbericht
Authors: Raevis Joseph , Shrier Eric
Published: July 2017

Hintergrund: Wir berichten erstmals über einen pädiatrischen Fall von bilateraler durch blauen Laserpointer induzierter Retinopathie mit vollständiger Abheilung der visuellen Symptome. Fall: Ein 12-jähriger Junge stellte sich mit bilateraler Beeinträchtigung der Sehschärfe und zentralen Skotomen nach Exposition gegenüber blauem Laserpointerlicht vor. Er wurde mit einem Medrol Dosepak und einem topischen nichtsteroidalen Entzündungshemmer (NSAID) behandelt, und die Sehschärfe verbesserte sich im Laufe von 22 Wochen allmählich von 20/40 OU auf 20/20 OU, wobei allerdings eine Disruption der äußeren Retinaschicht von der äußeren Grenzmembran bis zur Interdigitationszone weiterhin bestand. Schlussfolgerung: Orale Steroide und topische NSAID können das visuelle Outcome der Laserpointer-Makulopathie in der Pädiatrie wirksam verbessern. Übersetzung aus Case Rep Ophthalmol 2017;8:152-156 (DOI:10.1159/000460289)
Frontal Cortex and Hippocampal γ-Secretase Activating Protein Levels in Prodromal Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Perez Sylvia E. , Nadeem Muhammad , Malek-Ahmadi Michael H. , He Bin , Mufson Elliott J.
Published: July 2017

Background: β-Amyloid (Aβ) is the product of concerted cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) by β- and γ-secretases. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate this process are not well understood. Recently, evidence was reported that γ-secretase activating protein (GSAP, 16 kDa), derived from a larger precursor protein (98 kDa), plays a role in Aβ metabolism through a mechanism involving its interaction with both γ-secretase and APP. However, a detailed evaluation of GSAP protein levels and their association with clinical and neuropathological variables are lacking during the clinical progression of Alzheimer disease (AD). Methods: We quantified levels of the GSAP precursor (98 kDa) and its active form (16 kDa) in the frontal cortex and hippocampus, areas displaying extensive Aβ and neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) pathology, in subjects who came to autopsy with a premortem clinical diagnosis of noncognitive impairment, mild cognitive impairment, mild to moderate AD, and severe AD using Western blotting. Results: Analysis found that 98-kDa GSAP levels were increased, while those of 16 kDa were reduced in the frontal cortex of severe-AD subjects. By contrast, GSAP levels remained stable in the hippocampus. Frontal cortex and hippocampal GSAP 98- and 16-kDa levels were not associated with Aβ, NFT, and neuropathological criteria across clinical groups. Interestingly, only neocortical 98-kDa GSAP values showed a significant correlation with the Mini-Mental State Examination and episodic memory scores. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that GSAP proteins are differentially dysregulated in severe AD, but only the full-length form was associated with cognitive test scores in AD.
A “Prozone-Like” Effect Influences the Efficacy of the Monoclonal Antibody ABT-700 against the Hepatocyte Growth Factor Receptor
Authors: Vaidya Kedar S. , Oleksijew Anatol , Tucker Lora A. , Pappano William N. , Anderson Mark G. , Grinnell Christine M. , Zhang Qian , Heighton Sarah J. , Mitten Michael J. , Mishra Sasmita , Palma Joann P. , Wang Jieyi , Reilly Edward B. , Boghaert Erwin R.
Published: July 2017

ABT-700 is a therapeutic antibody against the hepatocyte growth factor receptor (MET). At doses or regimens that lead to exposures exceeding optimum in vivo, the efficacy of ABT-700 is unexpectedly reduced. We hypothesized that this reduction in efficacy was due to a “prozone-like” effect in vivo. A prozone-like effect, which is a reduction in efficacy beyond optimum exposure, is caused due a mechanism similar to the generation of false negative flocculation tests by excessive antibody titres. In vitro, we demonstrate that at higher ABT-700 concentrations, this “prozone-like” effect is mediated by a progressive conversion from bivalent to ineffective monovalent binding of the antibody. In vivo, the efficacy of ABT-700 is dependent on an optimum range of exposure as well. Our data suggest that the “prozone-like” effect is operative and independent of target expression. ABT-700 dose, regimen, exposure, and tumor burden are interdependent variables influencing the “prozone-like” effect and mediating and in vivo efficacy. By optimization of dosage and regimen we demonstrate that the “prozone-like” effect can be alleviated and ABT-700 efficacy at varying tumor loads can be further extended in combination with cisplatin. Our results suggest that optimization of exposure taking tumor burden into account may alleviate “prozone-like” effects without compromising efficacy.
The Role of Discoidin Domain Receptor 1 in Inflammation, Fibrosis and Renal Disease
Authors: Dorison Aude , Dussaule Jean-Claude , Chatziantoniou Christos
Published: July 2017

Discoidin domain receptors (DDRs) are a family of 2 non-integrin collagen receptors, DDR1 and DDR2, which display a tyrosine kinase activity. They are mainly expressed during embryonic development and their role during adulthood is very limited. DDR1 has been widely studied in several types of cancers, in atherosclerosis and fibrosis, but also in chronic kidney disease (CKD). This review focuses on the role of DDR1 in chronic nephropathies and on the effect of its deletion in the pathological processes involved in renal disease progression. DDR1 was shown to be de novo expressed in several models of experimental CKD. Its genetic or pharmaco-genetic inhibition led to the preservation of renal structure and function, and to decreased inflammatory influx and fibrosis. Furthermore, delayed pharmaco-genetic inhibition of DDR1 led to significant protection in models of renal disease. These results demonstrate the involvement of DDR1 in inflammatory and fibrotic processes occurring during CKD and the beneficial effect of its inhibition. Thus, DDR1 could be an interesting therapeutic target to treat renal pathologies.
Surfactant Protein B Suppresses Lung Cancer Progression by Inhibiting Secretory Phospholipase A2 Activity and Arachidonic Acid Production
Authors: Lee Sungmin , Kim Daehoon , Kang JiHoon , Kim EunGi , Kim Wanyeon , Youn HyeSook , Youn BuHyun
Published: July 2017

Background/Aims: Radiotherapy is applied to patients with inoperable cancer types including advanced stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and radioresistance functions as a critical obstacle in radiotherapy. This study was aimed to investigate the mechanism of radioresistance regulated by surfactant protein B (SP-B). Methods: To investigate the role of SP-B in radioresistance, ΔSFTPB A549 cell line was established and SP-B expression was analyzed. In response to ionizing radiation (IR), the change of SP-B expression was analyzed in A549 and NCI-H441 cell lines. Conditioned media (CM) from NSCLC cells were utilized to evaluate the downstream signaling pathway. The in vivo effects of SP-B were assessed through mouse xenograft model with intratumoral injection of CM. Results: In response to IR, NSCLC cell lines showed decreased SP-B regulated by the TGF-β signaling and decreased SP-B stimulated cell survival and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Treatment with CM from irradiated cells activated sPLA2, enhanced protein kinase Cδ-MAPKs signaling pathway, and increased arachidonic acid production. We confirmed the in vivo roles of SP-B through mouse xenograft model. Conclusion: Our results revealed that down-regulation of SP-B was involved in the radiation-induced metastatic conversion of NSCLC and provided evidence that SP-B acted as a suppressor of NSCLC progression.
Everolimus in Combination with Octreotide Long-Acting Repeatable in a First-Line Setting for Patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors: A 5-Year Update
Authors: Bajetta Emilio , Catena Laura , Pusceddu Sara , Spada Francesca , Iannacone Claudio , Sarno Italo , Di Menna Giandomenico , Dottorini Lorenzo , Marte Anna Maria
Published: July 2017

Background: We previously presented data of this multicentric, phase II study showing that everolimus plus octreotide long-acting repeatable (LAR) for advanced neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs), in the first line setting, is an active and safe treatment. We now present updated data at 5 years. Methods: Patients with advanced well-differentiated, previously untreated neuroendocrine tumors of the gastroenteropancreatic tract and of the lung received octreotide LAR 30 mg plus everolimus 10 mg/day. The primary endpoint was the objective response rate (ORR). We performed an analysis of “long responder” patients and of time to progression (TTP) and overall survival (OS) at 5 years. Results: Fifty patients were enrolled; the primary tumor site was: pancreas (14 patients), lung (11 patients), ileum (9 patients), jejunum/duodenum (2 patients), and unknown (14 patients). Seventeen (34%) of these patients have received treatment for more than 2 years. The median exposure to study drugs was 519.5 days (range 48-2,024). Currently 3 patients are still in treatment. The ORR (partial response + complete response) was 18% (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.4-28.6): complete response 1 patient (2%), partial response 8 patients (16%), stable disease 37 patients (74%). The median TTP was 33.6 months (95% CI 18.7-41.2) and the median OS was 61.0 months (95% CI 49.8-not reached). Conclusion: In this update of clinical outcome at 5-year follow-up, everolimus plus octreotide has been shown to be active in advanced NENs. The current analysis showed a further prolongation of TTP and a long exposure to the study drug without major side effects in the long term.
ὁµότονος: When did Words Have the Same Accent?
Authors: Roussou Stephanie
Published: July 2017

LSJ (s.v. ὁµότονος, ΙΙ) offers the definition ‘having the same accent’ for ὁµότονος as a grammatical term. This definition does not make clear whether ‘having the same accent’ involves having the same type of accent (acute or circumflex), having the accent in the same position, or both. This article examines the use and interpretation of the term ὁµότονος in grammatical and lexicographical works and scholia. The patterns of use that emerge reflect an implicit awareness of important structural features of the Greek accent system.
Conspiracy as Plot Type in Herodian’s Roman History
Authors: Scott Andrew G.
Published: July 2017

Despite positioning himself as a contemporary eyewitness and heir to Thucydides, Herodian has generally been judged to be a poor historian prone to the use of compression, formulaic scenes, and even free invention. This paper examines Herodian’s application of a specific plot type to conspiracies against the emperor by praetorian prefects. The use of this plot type reveals something of Herodian’s understanding of history and historical methodology, while also serving an important narrative function in his text.
A new species of Acrocomia (Arecaceae) from Central Brazil
Authors: VIANNA SUELEN ALVES
Published: July 2017

A new palm species is described in detail, including the morphological characteristics and the leaf anatomy that distinguish it from other species of the genus. Acrocomia corumbaensis has an arborescent habit similar to A. aculeata, A. crispa, A. intumescens and A. totai, however with an inflorescence of a different color, flowers that are green when mature, smaller fruits and seeds. Its leaf anatomy reveals structures similar to those in the other Acrocomia species indicating its position in the genus, but with distinct particularities.
Agaricus globocystidiatus: a new neotropical species with pleurocystidia in Agaricus subg. Minoriopsis
Authors: DREWINSKI MARIANA DE PAULA , MENOLLI JUNIOR NELSON , NEVES MARIA ALICE
Published: July 2017

Agaricus is a monophyletic genus with a worldwide distribution and more than 400 described species. The genus grows on soil and can be easily recognized by the presence of an annulus on the stipe and free lamellae which become dark brown with spore maturation. Although Agaricus is easily recognized in the field because of its macroscopic characters, identification at the species level is difficult. Based on specimens collected in the states of Paraná and Santa Catarina, in the south of Brazil, we propose a new species Agaricus globocystidiatus. The new taxon is distinguished mainly by the presence of pleurocystidia, a rare morphological character in Agaricus. Molecular analyses based on nuc rITS1-5.8-ITS2 (ITS) barcode sequences show that A. globocystidiatus belongs to Agaricus subg. Minoriopsis.
Thismia brunneomitroides (Thismiaceae), a new mycoheterotrophic species from southern Thailand
Authors: SUETSUGU KENJI , TSUKAYA HIROKAZU , TAGANE SHUICHIRO , SUDDEE SOMRAN , RUEANGRUEA SUKID , YAHARA TETSUKAZU
Published: July 2017

Here we describe a new species of the mycoheterotrophic genus Thismia (Thismiaceae), T. brunneomitroides, discovered during a botanical survey in Khao Luang National Park, Peninsular Thailand. Thismia brunneomitroides resembles Thismia brunneomitra from Brunei Darussalam in that both species possess inner tepal lobes that are connate to form a mitre with three projections at the apex and large lateral appendage of the connective. However, it differs in having ivory flowers with twelve pale orange to brownish orange vertical stripes on the perianth tube and slightly dentate lateral appendage of the connective which does not exceed apical part of the connective. Descriptions, illustrations and a key to the 13 species of Thismia in the Thai-Malay Peninsula are provided.