bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leptin-LepRb Expressed in Gastric Cancer Patients and Related to Cancer-Related Depression
Authors: Pan Yunbao , Zhou Fuling , He Chenyan , Hui Lingyun , Huang Tianhe , Wei Yongchang
Published: February 2017

Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder among cancer patients. Studies have not only highlighted that leptin and its receptor (LepRb) are independent poor prognostic factors in gastric cancer (GC) patients but also shown that the leptin-LepRb is necessary for antidepressant-like behaviors. In this study, we examined the serum and tissue leptin-LepRb expression in GC patients. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed that depressive GC patients had significantly higher serum leptin-LepRb than healthy donors. Leptin-LepRb levels in GC tissues were also significantly higher than in matched paracarcinoma tissues using real-time RT-PCR. Moreover, we observed that both serum and tissue leptin-LepRb were significantly higher in depressive GC patients than those in nondepressive GC patients. Further, the patients with high tumor stage tend to have higher leptin-LepRb mRNA levels than that with low tumor stage. Together, our findings suggest that leptin-LepRb plays an important role in the pathogenesis and depression in GC. Leptin-LepRb therefore could be a potential diagnostic marker and therapeutic target in GC patients with depression.
High-Throughput Screening of Potential Skin Penetration-Enhancers Using Stratum Corneum Lipid Liposomes: Preliminary Evaluation for Different Concentrations of Ethanol
Authors: Sakdiset Pajaree , Kitao Yuki , Todo Hiroaki , Sugibayashi Kenji
Published: February 2017

In this study, we developed a technique for high-throughput screening (HTS) of skin penetration-enhancers using stratum corneum lipid liposomes (SCLLs). A fluorescent marker, sodium fluorescein (FL), entrapped in SCLLs was prepared to provide a preliminary evaluation of the effect of different concentrations of ethanol on the disruption effect of SCLLs, which is an alternative for skin penetration-enhancing effects. In addition, SCLLs containing a fluorescent probe (DPH, TMA-DPH, or ANS) were also prepared and utilized to investigate SCLL fluidity. The results using SCLL-based techniques were compared with conventional skin permeation and skin impedance test using hairless rat skin. The obtained correlations were validated between FL leakage, SCLL fluidity with various probes, or skin impedance and increases in the skin permeation enhancement ratio (ER) of caffeine as a model penetrant. As a result, FL leakage and SCLL fluidity using ANS were considered to be good indices for the skin penetration-enhancing effect, suggesting that the action of ethanol on the SC lipid and penetration-enhancing is mainly on the polar head group of intercellular lipids. In addition, this screening method using SCLL could be utilized as an alternative HTS technique for conventional animal tests. Simultaneously, the method was found to be time-saving and sensitive compared with a direct assay using human and animal skins.
A Perplexing Case of Abdominal Pain That Led to the Diagnosis of Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
Authors: Lenhart Adrienne , Hassan Mona , Meighani Alireza , Sadiq Omar , Siddiqui Yousuf
Published: February 2017

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is a rare clinical disorder, characterized by hypersecretion of gastric acid and multiple ulcers distal to the duodenal bulb. This occurs via the release of gastrin by neuroendocrine tumors known as gastrinomas. Patients with ZES present with nonspecific GI symptoms, which often leads to a delay in diagnosis. Our patient is a 55-year-old female with chronic abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea. She underwent EGD, EUS, MRCP, CT scans, and cholecystectomy, which did not reveal the cause of her symptoms. Repeat EGD showed a cratered ulcer in the second portion of the duodenum, suspicious for ZES. Serum gastrin was initially only moderately elevated while on PPI therapy, but chromogranin A was also elevated. Repeat gastrin level after stopping PPI therapy was 1639 pg/mL. Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy was obtained, which showed two small lesions in the gastrinoma triangle. She subsequently underwent a Whipple pancreaticoduodenectomy and pathology was positive for four microscopic foci of a neuroendocrine tumor. She reported improvement in her symptoms after surgery. This case highlights the need for increased awareness of ZES in patients with unexplained GI complaints and emphasizes the use of multiple modalities in the diagnosis of ZES.
Primary Hepatic Neuroendocrine Tumor with Unusual Thyroid Follicular-Like Morphologic Characteristics
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd Elmugtaba , Abadeer Kerolos , Zhai Qihui (Jim) , Nassar Aziza
Published: February 2017

We describe a primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumor of a 57-year-old Thai woman who presented in 2004 with a suspicious mass in the left hepatic lobe. She underwent left hepatectomy for the 10.5-cm mass, calledintermediate grade neuroendocrine carcinoma of unknown origin,likely metastatic. The tumor recurred in 2007, then calledrecurrent primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumor(PHNET), and the patient underwent liver transplant. Because of similarity between the neuroendocrine tumor and a thyroid tumor—specifically, follicular-like characteristics—immunohistochemical stains for thyroglobulin, TTF1, and calcitonin were performed. However, all were negative. All imaging studies revealed no evidence of a primary lesion other than the liver mass. In 2008, the patient’s liver transplant failed because of ischemic cholangiopathy, and she underwent a second liver transplant. Seven years later, in 2015, she presented with metastatic neuroendocrine tumor of intermediate grade to the lung, consistent with metastatic PHNET. She underwent left upper-lobe wedge resection to remove the tumor. The patient is alive with no evidence of disease at 13 years after initial diagnosis. This rare variant of PHNET had thyroid-like morphologic characteristics but there is no evidence of primary thyroid tumor or thyroid markers in the primary and recurrent hepatic tumors and lung metastasis.
An Office-Based Fluid to Fluid Exchange Technique for the Treatment of Postvitrectomy Vitreous Cavity Hemorrhage and Secondary Glaucoma
Authors: Hernandez-Da Mota Sergio E.
Published: February 2017

A case of postvitrectomy hemorrhage with secondary glaucoma successfully treated with an office-based fluid to fluid exchange is described. A 25 Ga trocar was placed 3 mm from the sclerocorneal limbus at the 2 o’clock position and connected to a 250 cc elevated bottle of balanced salt solution (BSS) through an intravenous (IV) line and an infusion cannula. Afterward, a 25 Ga needle was inserted 3 mm from the limbus at the 5 o’clock position approximately. The BSS fluid entered the eye through the 25 Ga trocar lavaging the vitreous cavity and the anterior chamber. About 4 to 6 cc of hemorrhagic fluid egressed the eye through the 25 Ga needle.
PPAR Agonists for the Prevention and Treatment of Lung Cancer
Authors: Lakshmi Sowmya P. , Reddy Aravind T. , Banno Asoka , Reddy Raju C.
Published: February 2017

Lung cancer is the most common and most fatal of all malignancies worldwide. Furthermore, with more than half of all lung cancer patients presenting with distant metastases at the time of initial diagnosis, the overall prognosis for the disease is poor. There is thus a desperate need for new prevention and treatment strategies. Recently, a family of nuclear hormone receptors, the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), has attracted significant attention for its role in various malignancies including lung cancer. Three PPARs, PPARα, PPARβ/δ, and PPARγ, display distinct biological activities and varied influences on lung cancer biology. PPARαactivation generally inhibits tumorigenesis through its antiangiogenic and anti-inflammatory effects. Activated PPARγis also antitumorigenic and antimetastatic, regulating several functions of cancer cells and controlling the tumor microenvironment. Unlike PPARαand PPARγ, whether PPARβ/δactivation is anti- or protumorigenic or even inconsequential currently remains an open question that requires additional investigation. This review of current literature emphasizes the multifaceted effects of PPAR agonists in lung cancer and discusses how they may be applied as novel therapeutic strategies for the disease.
Does Good Aerobic Capacity Attenuate the Effects of Aging on Cardiovascular Risk Factors? Results from a Cross-Sectional Study in a Latino Population
Authors: Valentino Giovanna , Acevedo Mónica , Orellana Lorena , Bustamante María José , Kramer Verónica , Adasme Marcela , Baraona Fernando , Chamorro Gastón , Jalil Jorge , Navarrete Carlos
Published: February 2017

Background. High aerobic capacity is associated with low cardiovascular (CV) risk. The aim of this study was to determine the CV RF burden in subjects with aerobic capacity ≥10 METs and compare it with those having <10 METs.Methods. Cross-sectional study in 2646 subjects (mean age 48 ± 12 years). Demographics, medical history, physical activity, cardiovascular RFs, fasting lipids and blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and anthropometric measurements were collected. Aerobic capacity was determined by exercise stress test. The ACC/AHA 2013 pooled cohort equation was used to calculate CV risk. Logistic models were built to determine the probability of having ≥2 RFs versus 0‐1 RF, by age and sex, according to aerobic capacity.Results. 15% of subjects had aerobiccapacity<10METs. The ACC/AHA scores were 15% in men and 6% in women with <10 METs and 5% and 2%, respectively, in those with ≥10 METs. The probability of having ≥2 RFs increased with age in both groups; however, it was significantly higher in subjects with <10 METs (odds ratio [OR]: 2.54; 95% CI: 1.92–3.35).Conclusions.Aerobic capacity≥10METs is associated with a better CV RF profile and lower CV risk score in all age groups, regardless of gender.
Astragaloside IV for Experimental Focal Cerebral Ischemia: Preclinical Evidence and Possible Mechanisms
Authors: Wang Hui-Lin , Zhou Qi-Hui , Xu Meng-Bei , Zhou Xiao-Li , Zheng Guo-Qing
Published: February 2017

Astragaloside IV (AST‐IV) is a principal component of Radix Astragali seu Hedysari (Huangqi) and exerts potential neuroprotection in experimental ischemic stroke. Here, we systematically assessed the effectiveness and possible mechanisms of AST‐IV for experimental acute ischemic stroke. An electronic search in eight databases was conducted from inception to March 2016. The study quality score was evaluated using the CAMARADES. Rev Man 5.0 software was used for data analyses. Thirteen studies with 244 animals were identified. The study quality score of included studies ranged from 3/10 to 8/10. Eleven studies showed significant effects of AST‐IV for ameliorating the neurological function score (P < 0.05); seven studies for reducing the infarct volume (P < 0.05); and three or two studies for reducing the brain water content and Evans blue leakage (P < 0.05), respectively, compared with the control. The mechanisms of AST‐IV for ischemic stroke are multiple such as antioxidative/nitration stress reaction, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptosis. In conclusion, the findings of present study indicated that AST‐IV could improve neurological deficits and infarct volume and reduce the blood‐brain barrier permeability in experimental cerebral ischemia despite some methodological flaws. Thus, AST‐IV exerted a possible neuroprotective effect during the cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury largely through its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptosis properties.
A Mobile-Based High Sensitivity On-Field Organophosphorus Compounds Detecting System for IoT-Based Food Safety Tracking
Authors: Jin Han , Qin Yajie , Liang Hao , Wan Lei , Lan Hao , Chen Guoping , Liu Ran , Zheng Li-rong , Chiang Patrick , Hong Zhi-liang
Published: February 2017

A mobile-based high sensitivity absorptiometer is presented to detect organophosphorus (OP) compounds for Internet-of-Things based food safety tracking. This instrument consists of a customized sensor front-end chip, LED-based light source, low power wireless link, and coin battery, along with a sample holder packaged in a recycled format. The sensor front-end integrates optical sensor, capacitive transimpedance amplifier, and a folded-reference pulse width modulator in a single chip fabricated in a 0.18 μm 1-poly 5-metal CMOS process and has input optical power dynamic range of 71 dB, sensitivity of 3.6 nW/cm2 (0.77 pA), and power consumption of 14.5 μW. Enabled by this high sensitivity sensor front-end chip, the proposed absorptiometer has a small size of 96 cm3, with features including on-field detection and wireless communication with a mobile. OP compound detection experiments of the handheld system demonstrate a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.4 μmol/L, comparable to that of a commercial spectrophotometer. Meanwhile, an android-based application (APP) is presented which makes the absorptiometer access to the Internet-of-Things (IoT).
Social Network Community Detection for DMA Creation: Criteria Analysis through Multilevel Optimization
Authors: Brentan Bruno M. , Campbell Enrique , Meirelles Gustavo L. , Luvizotto Edevar , Izquierdo Joaquín
Published: February 2017

Management of large water distribution systems can be improved by dividing their networks into so‐called district metered areas (DMAs). However, such divisions must be based on appropriated technical criteria. Considering the importance of deeply understanding the relationship between DMA creation and these criteria, this work proposes a performance analysis of DMA generation that takes into account such indicators as resilience index, demand similarity, pressure uniformity, water age (and thus water quality), solution implantation costs, and electrical consumption. To cope with the complexity of the problem, suitable mathematical techniques are proposed in this paper. We use a social community detection technique to define the sectors, and then a multilevel particle swarm optimization approach is applied to find the optimal placement and operating point of the necessary devices. The results obtained by implementing the methodology in a real water supply network show its validity and the meaningful influence on the final result of, especially, elevation and pipe length.
Multiple Factors Involved in the Pathogenesis of White Matter Lesions
Authors: Lin Jing , Wang Dilong , Lan Linfang , Fan Yuhua
Published: February 2017

White matter lesions (WMLs), also known as leukoaraiosis (LA) or white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), are characterized mainly by hyperintensities on T2-weighted or fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images. With the aging of the population and the development of imaging technology, the morbidity and diagnostic rates of WMLs are increasing annually. WMLs are not a benign process. They clinically manifest as cognitive decline and the subsequent development of dementia. Although WMLs are important, their pathogenesis is still unclear. This review elaborates on the advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis of WMLs, focusing on anatomy, cerebral blood flow autoregulation, venous collagenosis, blood brain barrier disruption, and genetic factors. In particular, the attribution of WMLs to chronic ischemia secondary to venous collagenosis and cerebral blood flow autoregulation disruption seems reasonable. With the development of gene technology, the effect of genetic factors on the pathogenesis of WMLs is gaining gradual attention.
Establishing Prenatal Surgery for Myelomeningocele in Asia: The Singapore Consensus
Authors: Wataganara Tuangsit , Seshadri Suresh , Leung Tak Yeung , Matter Citra , Ngerncham Monawat , Triyasunant Namtip , Mali Padmakar Vidyadhar , Biswas Agnhitori , Nawapun Katika , Phithakwatchara Nisarat , Flake Alan W. , Johnson Mark P. , Biswas Arijit , Choolani Mahesh
Published: February 2017

Objectives: The Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS Trial) has inspired many fetal therapy centers (FTCs) to offer open fetal surgery for myelomeningocele (MMC). This is an initial effort to create a candidate model that can be applicable to many parts of Asia. Material and Methods: A limited selection of specialists from 4 established FTCs in Thailand, Hong Kong, India, and Singapore met for a round table discussion. Experts from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) involved in the Trial moderated the session. The practice suggestions in this statement were from a targeted literature review and expert opinion. Results: A high prevalence of MMC in Asia supports an effort to adopt the procedure, but only in established FTCs with good maternal and neonatal ancillary supports. The falling incidence of MMCs may affect case volume and maintenance of skill. A regional approach was recommended. Fetal benefits have to be weighed against maternal risks, with a consideration of recent outcome data from the endoscopic approach. Responsible FTCs need standardized diagnosis and management, with their long-term outcome data available for an audit. Conclusions: It is envisaged that the information presented by this multidisciplinary team would be useful for FTCs in Asia or elsewhere that plan to establish more advanced fetal care in the future.
Recurrent Angioedema: Occurrence, Features, and Concomitant Diseases in an Italian Single-Center Study
Authors: Triggianese Paola , Guarino Maria Domenica , Pellicano Chiara , Borzi Mauro , Greco Elisabetta , Modica Stella , De Carolis Caterina , Perricone Roberto
Published: February 2017

Background: Angioedema (AE) is a potentially life-threatening condition with hereditary (HAE), acquired (AAE), or iatrogenic causes. A careful workup allows for the identification of the etiology of attacks and the appropriate management. In this cohort study, based on a clinical practice setting, we aimed at investigating clinical and laboratory findings concerning different features of patients with recurrent AE who were referred to a single, tertiary-level center for HAE. Methods: Clinical and laboratory data of patients fulfilling the criteria for C1-inhibitor-deficient HAE (C1-INH-HAE), C1-INH-AAE, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor-related AE (ACEI-RA), and idiopathic AAE (I-AAE) were evaluated. Descriptive statistics were analyzed by means of the Mann-Whitney U test. The Fisher exact test was used for group comparisons. Results: Patients were diagnosed with type 1 HAE (n = 14), type 2 HAE (n = 1), C1-INH-AAE (n = 8), ACEI-RA (n = 16), or I-AAE (n = 26). We included only patients with concomitant autoimmune diseases from the I-AAE group (n = 8, aut-I-AAE). Age at disease onset and at diagnosis was younger in type 1 HAE than in all the other groups. The diagnostic delay was longer in type 1 HAE than in ACEI-RA. C4 and C1q levels were lower in C1-INH-AAE than in type 1 HAE, ACEI-RA, and aut-I-AAE. Both HAE and C1-INH-AAE showed lower C1-INH antigen and function compared to the other groups. Peripheral attacks were more frequent in type 1 HAE, while airway, abdominal, and oral attacks were prevalent in C1-INH-AAE. Conclusion: Investigating the clinical and laboratory features of recurrent AE without wheals represents a major topic for facilitating early diagnosis and improving treatment strategies for this heterogeneous and misdiagnosed condition.
The Routine Use of Intrapartum Ultrasound in Clinical Decision-Making during the Second Stage of Labor - Does It Have Any Impact on Delivery Outcomes?
Authors: Barak Oren , Levy Roni , Flidel Orna , Zaks Svetlana , Gillor Moshe , Hagay Zion , Vaisbuch Edi
Published: February 2017

Background/Aims: The study aimed to assess whether the use of intrapartum transperineal ultrasound (US) can reduce the rate of failed vacuum extraction (VE). Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study including all women delivering at term with the diagnosis of protracted second stage of labor. The mode of delivery and rate of failed VE were compared between women who underwent a US examination prior to the decision on obstetrical interventions (“+US” group) and those in whom clinical decisions were based upon digital assessment only (“no-US” group). Results: The study included 635 women. Among the “no-US” group (536), there were 13 failed VE attempts (3.6%) vs. none in the “+US” group (99, p = 0.1). There was a significant difference between the groups regarding mode of delivery (p = 0.001), with a lower cesarean section (CS) rate (20.2 vs. 27.8%) among the “+US” group. Maternal age, body mass index, nulliparity, gestational age at delivery, and birth weight, as well as neonatal short-term outcome did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. Conclusions: We demonstrate that among women who had the addition of intrapartum US during the second stage of labor there was a trend toward a lower rate of failed VE (although not reaching statistical significance), with a lower rate of CS but not affecting neonatal outcome.
Post-Finasteride Adverse Effects in Male Androgenic Alopecia: A Case Report of Vitiligo
Authors: Motofei Ion G. , Rowland David L. , Georgescu Simona R. , Tampa Mircea , Paunica Stana , Constantin Vlad D. , Balalau Cristian , Manea Mirela , Baleanu Bogdan C. , Sinescu Ioanel
Published: February 2017

Finasteride has proved to be relatively safe and effective in the therapeutic management of male androgenic alopecia. However, literature data report several endocrine imbalances inducing various adverse effects, which often persist after treatment cessation in the form of post-finasteride syndrome. Here we present the case of a 52-year-old man receiving finasteride (1 mg/day) who developed an uncommon adverse effect represented by generalized vitiligo 2 months after finasteride discontinuation. Associated adverse effects encountered were represented by mild sexual dysfunction (as determined by the International Index of Erectile Function, IIEF) and moderate depressive symptoms (according to DSM-V criteria), all of these manifestations aggregating within/as a possible post-finasteride syndrome. Further studies should develop and compare several therapeutic approaches, taking into account not only compounds that decrease the circulating dihydrotestosterone level but also those that could block the dihydrotestosterone receptors (if possible, compounds with selective tropism towards the skin). In addition, the possibility of predicting adverse effects of finasteride (according to hand preference and sexual orientation) should be taken into account.
Predictors of BMI Vary along the BMI Range of German Adults - Results of the German National Nutrition Survey II
Authors: Moon Kilson , Krems Carolin , Heuer Thorsten , Roth Alexander , Hoffmann Ingrid
Published: February 2017

Objective: The objective of the study was to identify predictors of BMI in German adults by considering the BMI distribution and to determine whether the association between BMI and its predictors varies along the BMI distribution. Methods: The sample included 9,214 adults aged 18-80 years from the German National Nutrition Survey II (NVS II). Quantile regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between BMI and the following predictors: age, sports activities, socio-economic status (SES), healthy eating index-NVS II (HEI-NVS II), dietary knowledge, sleeping duration and energy intake as well as status of smoking, partner relationship and self-reported health. Results: Age, SES, self-reported health status, sports activities and energy intake were the strongest predictors of BMI. The important outcome of this study is that the association between BMI and its predictors varies along the BMI distribution. Especially, energy intake, health status and SES were marginally associated with BMI in normal-weight subjects; this relationships became stronger in the range of overweight, and were strongest in the range of obesity. Conclusions: Predictors of BMI and the strength of these associations vary across the BMI distribution in German adults. Consequently, to identify predictors of BMI, the entire BMI distribution should be considered.
Trajectories of Depression in Late Life: A 1-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Borza Tom , Engedal Knut , Bergh Sverre , Benth Jūratė Šaltytė , Selbæk Geir
Published: February 2017

Aims: To investigate the prognosis of depression in late life (DLL) in terms of the course of depression over 1 year and assess clinical factors related to the prognosis. Methods: We performed an observational, multicenter, longitudinal study of 160 patients aged ≥60 years who were admitted to inward treatment of DLL. The patients were followed with 3 assessments: at inclusion (T0), at discharge from the hospital (T1), and after 1 year (T2). Growth mixture modeling was applied to identify patient classes following distinct trajectories of the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score. Two regression models were estimated to assess clinical factors for the trajectories and for a clinical assessment of the depression course between T1 and T2. Results: Two trajectory classes were identified: one with higher and one with lower MADRS scores. Not being in remission at T1 and a longer hospital stay were associated with higher odds of being in the trajectory class with more severe depression. Early-onset depression (EOD) was associated with higher odds of being in a group with a poorer clinical course between T1 and T2. Conclusion: EOD and not being in remission at discharge were important negative prognostic factors for DLL.
Impact of PD-L1 Expression in Patients with Surgically Resected Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Igawa Satoshi , Sato Yuichi , Ryuge Shinichiro , Ichinoe Masaaki , Katono Ken , Hiyoshi Yasuhiro , Otani Sakiko , Nagashio Ryo , Nakashima Hiroyasu , Katagiri Masato , Sasaki Jiichiro , Murakumo Yoshiki , Satoh Yukitoshi , Masuda Noriyuki
Published: February 2017

Background: Immunotherapy can become a crucial therapeutic option to improve the prognosis of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, we evaluated the impact of programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression in surgically resected NSCLCs. Methods: We estimated PD-L1 expression in 229 consecutive NSCLC specimens using rabbit polyclonal antibodies to human PD-L1 in a SP263 immunohistochemical assay and evaluated PD-L1 expression for potential associations with clinicopathological parameters and survival time. Results: PD-L1 expression was significantly higher in tumors from men or current smokers. Squamous cell carcinoma histology was independently associated with high PD-L1 expression according to multivariate analysis (p = 0.015). The 5-year survival rate of patients was 70%, and the difference in the 5-year survival rate according to PD-L1 expression was not statistically significant (high expression group [67%] vs. low expression group [68%]); however, the squamous cell carcinoma group exhibited significantly lower 5-year survival rates as compared to the non-squamous cell carcinoma group (53 and 71%, respectively; p = 0.026). Conclusion: Here, we revealed high PD-L1 expression and poor prognosis observed in patients with surgically resected squamous NSCLC as compared with non-squamous NSCLC. Our results support the identification of patient subsets that most likely respond to anti-PD-1 therapy as the first step in precision medicine.
The Timing of Embryo Transfer Catheter Removal: Should It be Delayed or Done Immediately? A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Devranoğlu Belgin , Özdamar Özkan , Çakıroğlu Yiğit , Küçükbaş Mehmet , Eken Meryem K. , Doğer Emek
Published: February 2017

Background/Aims: Data on the timing of catheter removal technique following embryo transfer (ET) are quite limited. We aimed to compare the reproductive outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)/ET cycles in which the transfer catheter was removed immediately with those in which the catheter was removed after a delay period and hereby to evaluate the impact that the time interval before removal of the catheter following embryo deposit may have on the fertility outcomes. Methods: A prospective randomized study was designed. ICSI/ET patients <40 years were randomly assigned to either of the group from which catheter was withdrawn immediately within the first 5 s (Group A) or after a 30 s delay (Group B) following ET. Results: Groups A and B consisted of 147 and 148 patients, respectively. Patient demographics and stimulation characteristics were comparable between the groups. Pregnancy rate was 32.2% (95 of 295) and clinical pregnancy rate was 28.8% (85 of 295), whereas ongoing pregnancy was 24.4% (72 of 295) and implantation rate was 29.6% (100 of 338). The comparison of reproductive outcomes revealed no significant differences in pregnancy (p = 0.933), clinical pregnancy (p = 0.673), ongoing pregnancy (p = 0.590), multiple pregnancy (p = 0.801), and implantation rates (p = 0.979) between the groups. Conclusion: No significant difference was observed in the reproductive outcomes between the groups; thus, there appears no requirement to delay the withdrawal of the catheter to improve the outcomes in ICSI cycles.
МІЖДИСЦИПЛІНАРНА ІНТЕГРАЦІЯ ЯК ФАКТОР УДОСКОНАЛЕННЯ ВИКЛАДАННЯ ФАРМАКОЛОГІЇ У МЕДИЧНОМУ ВИШІ
Authors: Voloshchuk N. I. , Pashynska O. S. , Ivanytsia A. O. , Taran I. V.
Published: February 2017

У статті розглянуті роль та місце міждисциплінарної інтеграції як фактора удосконалення викладання  на кафедрі фармакології Вінницького національного медичного університету ім. М. І. Пирогова. Міждисциплінарні зв’язки допомагають доповнити зміст однієї дисципліни знаннями з іншої, об’єднують їх і забезпечують формування професійно важливих вмінь та навичок. Застосування міждисциплінарних технологій підготовки лікаря дозволяє підняти його на якісно новий рівень клінічного мислення, здатного комплексно вирішувати завдання медичної практики на основі широкого інтегрування даних різноманітних дисциплін.
КРИТЕРІЇ СУЧАСНОСТІ ЛЕКЦІЇ З ФІЗІОЛОГІЇ
Authors: Kurovska V. O.
Published: February 2017

У статті розглядається питання, яким критеріям повинна відповідати сучасна лекція з фізіології. Тенденція, яка спостерігається у світі, полягає в тому, щоб за допомогою сучасних мультимедійних технологій перетворити аудиторію із пасивних слухачів на активних учасників лекційного процесу. Вивчаючи дану проблему, серед студентів було проведено анкетування з метою встановити, якою вони бачать сучасну лекцію. За його результатами виходить, що вони відкидають ідею про те, що дистанційна чи записана і рекомендована до перегляду лекція може замінити класичну. Згідно зі студентською думкою, сучасність лекції визначається професіоналізмом лектора, його обізнаністю з новими досягненнями науки та вмінням вдало розкрити тему. На лекціях з фізіології доцільно демонструвати відеофільми з експериментами над тваринами.
РОЛЬ СИМУЛЯЦІЙНИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ У ПРОЦЕСІ ВИКЛАДАННЯ ТРАВМАТОЛОГІЇ ТА ОРТОПЕДІЇ
Authors: Tsvyakh A. I. , Kulyanda I. S. , Kopytchak I. R. , Нrubar Yu. O. , Smorshchok Yu. S. , Marchenkova N. O. , Lymar Ye. A.
Published: February 2017

У системі медичної освіти симуляційні технології лежать в основі ряду методик, покликаних допомагати відтворювати клінічні ситуації відповідно до мети навчання, повторення, оцінки і дослідження. У статті висвітлено питання застосування симуляційних технологій у системі викладання ортопедії та травматології для студентів 5 курсу медичного факультету й окреслено перспективи застосування симуляційного навчання для підготовки лікарів-інтернів. Впровадження симуляційних технологій навчання сприятиме кращому засвоєнню практичних навичок та хірургічних методик з травматології.
Comparative analysis of lung function of rats using a new intubation technique and tracheostomy
Authors: Serra Daniel Silveira , Brito Kaio Bruno Pereira de , Cavalcante Francisco Sales Ávila
Published: February 2017

Vários estudos utilizam a intubação orotraqueal ou traqueostomia para coleta de dados na função pulmonar de ratos. Devido à dificuldade de realização da intubação, a traqueostomia é mais comumente utilizada. Conhecendo esta dificuldade, este trabalho demonstra uma nova maneira de realizar a técnica de intubação e compara as variáveis de função pulmonar obtidas por intubação ou traqueostomia. Para a análise de nossa nova técnica de intubação, foram utilizados 30 ratos, e para a análise comparativa dos dados da função pulmonar obtidos pelo uso de nossa técnica de intubação e traqueotomia, 16 ratos foram utilizados, divididos em dois grupos. O grupo T foi submetido a traqueostomia. O grupo de IT foi submetido inicialmente a intubação e, esperada sua recuperação, uma semana depois foi novamente submetido a intubação, que foi então chamado de grupo IT-1W. Nossa técnica de intubação é realizada com a ajuda de uma cunha, cama inclinada e transiluminação percutânea. Nenhum animal morreu durante o procedimento de intubação, e cerca de 77% dos animais foram intubados na primeira tentativa. Não foram obtidas diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas variáveis de função pulmonar entre os grupos. Nossa técnica de intubação é facilmente aprendida e reproduzida. As implicações de tal técnica podem ser generalizadas para todos os laboratórios que lidam com a intubação de ratos.
Imagem e estética na construção discursiva do popular: reflexões sobre duas telenovelas de João Emanuel Carneiro
Authors: Mauro Rosana
Published: February 2017

Este artigo objetiva abordar a construção discursiva do popular do ponto de vista da imagem nas telenovelas de João Emanuel Carneiro, com a direção de Amora Mautner – Avenida Brasil (2012) e A regra do jogo (2015). O intuito é refletir sobre como o discurso popular é constituído pelo formato da telenovela, sua estrutura visual e materialidade. A observação de cenas sugere a existência de uma estética que relaciona o popular ao cotidiano, ao rotineiro e vulgar, colocando as necessidades do corpo em evidência. Tais aspectos apontam para um efeito de realidade que atualiza o caráter de representação de cotidiano da telenovela e dialoga com o real democrático discutido por Rancière (2010). O trabalho também apresenta a pertinência de um estudo que dialogue com as teorias do imaginário, como ampliação e complemento a uma análise discursiva.
Telejornalismo, narrativas e representações: um estudo sobre o aniversário da cidade de São Paulo no SPTV
Authors: Darde Vicente William da Silva , Leme Fernando Albino
Published: February 2017

A proposta do artigo é identificar e compreender as estratégias discursivas adotadas pelo telejornal SPTV, da TV Globo, na construção de representações sobre a cidade de São Paulo para o público local na data de comemoração dos 462 anos da capital paulista. Quais as representações (re)construídas pelas narrativas jornalísticas acerca da cidade e sua população? Buscamos problematizar se há espaços no jornalismo para representações de valores identitários distintos e plurais. Entendemos que na rotina diária da produção jornalística há várias restrições, de tempo e espaço, que acabam contribuindo para o enquadramento dessa questão de forma simplificada, atendendo ao senso comum e contribuindo para a permanência do status quo.
Hackear ou ser hackeado: o quase-totalitarismo das redes de segurança globais
Authors: Karatzogianni Athina , Gak Martin
Published: February 2017

O presente artigo se concentra nas questões ideológicas da vigilância digital, examinando exemplos empíricos específicos retirados de reportagens publicadas sobre o caso Snowden, com o objetivo de matizar o lugar da política, da ética, dos valores e afetos mobilizados por governos e pela elite corporativa justificando a prática de coleta de dados pessoais numa associação entre três das redes globais de “segurança”. Analisa-se a constituição de um espaço político como esfera de atuação que emerge em contraposição ao que estamos nomeando como mecanismos “quase-totalitários”, baseados na ideia de alinhamento, conluio e imbricamento das três redes de segurança. Os diferentes aspectos desse quase-totalitarismo incluem: o monopólio do planejamento digital em relação à vigilância e a comunicação secreta entre governos, a elite corporativa e, algumas vezes, ONGs; o papel das ONGs na sociedade civil como forma de contornar processos democráticos; as políticas de associação entre empresas que assegurem o duplo objetivo do estado (segurança) e do capital (lucro); a dimensão inigualável da estrutura de aquisição de dados pelas matrizes da inteligência ocidental; a perseguição e julgamento de jornalistas, denunciantes e atores lutando em favor da transparência fora da esfera dos grupos das sociedade civil; e a significativa, mas insuficiente, contestação por parte do público de crimes contra as liberdades civis.
Isosorbide Dinitrate, With or Without Hydralazine, Does Not Reduce Wave Reflections, Left Ventricular Hypertrophy, or Myocardial Fibrosis in Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Zamani Payman , Akers Scott , Soto‐Calderon Haideliza , Beraun Melissa , Koppula Maheswara R. , Varakantam Swapna , Rawat Deepa , Shiva‐Kumar Prithvi , Haines Philip G. , Chittams Jesse , Townsend Raymond R. , Witschey Walter R. , Segers Patrick , Chirinos Julio A.
Published: February 2017

Background

Wave reflections, which are increased in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, impair diastolic function and promote pathologic myocardial remodeling. Organic nitrates reduce wave reflections acutely, but whether this is sustained chronically or affected by hydralazine coadministration is unknown.

Methods and Results

We randomized 44 patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in a double‐blinded fashion to isosorbide dinitrate (
ISDN
; n=13),
ISDN
+hydralazine (
ISDN
+hydral; n=15), or placebo (n=16) for 6 months. The primary end point was the change in reflection magnitude (
RM
; assessed with arterial tonometry and Doppler echocardiography). Secondary end points included change in left ventricular mass and fibrosis, measured with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and the 6‐minute walk distance.
ISDN
reduced aortic characteristic impedance (mean baseline=0.15 [95%
CI
, 0.14–0.17], 3 months=0.11 [95%
CI
, 0.10–0.13], 6 months=0.10 [95%
CI
, 0.08–0.12] mm Hg/mL per second;
P
=0.003) and forward wave amplitude (P
f
, mean baseline=54.8 [95%
CI
, 47.6–62.0], 3 months=42.2 [95%
CI
, 33.2–51.3]; 6 months=37.0 [95%
CI
, 27.2–46.8] mm Hg,
P
=0.04), but had no effect on
RM
(
P
=0.64), left ventricular mass (
P
=0.33), or fibrosis (
P
=0.63).
ISDN
+hydral increased
RM
(mean baseline=0.39 [95%
CI
, 0.35–0.43]; 3 months=0.31 [95%
CI
, 0.25–0.36]; 6 months=0.44 [95%
CI
, 0.37–0.51],
P
=0.03), reduced 6‐minute walk distance (mean baseline=343.3 [95%
CI
, 319.2–367.4]; 6 months=277.0 [95%
CI
, 242.7–311.4] meters,
P
=0.022), and increased native myocardial T1 (mean baseline=1016.2 [95%
CI
, 1002.7–1029.7]; 6 months=1054.5 [95%
CI
, 1036.5–1072.3],
P
=0.021). A high proportion of patients experienced adverse events with active therapy (
ISDN
=61.5%,
ISDN
+hydral=60.0%; placebo=12.5%;
P
=0.007).

Conclusions

ISDN
, with or without hydralazine, does not exert beneficial effects on
RM
, left ventricular remodeling, or submaximal exercise and is poorly tolerated.
ISDN
+hydral appears to have deleterious effects on
RM
, myocardial remodeling, and submaximal exercise. Our findings do not support the routine use of these vasodilators in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
01516346.
Time Trends and Educational Inequalities in Out‐of‐Hospital Coronary Deaths in Norway 1995–2009: A Cardiovascular Disease in Norway (CVDNOR) Project
Authors: Sulo Enxhela , Nygård Ottar , Vollset Stein Emil , Igland Jannicke , Ebbing Marta , Østbye Truls , Jørgensen Torben , Sulo Gerhard , Tell Grethe S.
Published: February 2017

Background

Recent time trends and educational gradients characterizing out‐of‐hospital coronary deaths (
OHCD
) are poorly described.

Methods and Results

We identified all deaths from coronary heart disease occurring outside the hospital in Norway during 1995 to 2009. Time trends were explored using Poisson regression analysis with year as the independent, continuous variable. Information on the highest achieved education was obtained from The National Education Database and classified as primary (up to 10 years of compulsory education), secondary (high school or vocational school), or tertiary (college/university). Educational gradients in
OHCD
were explored using Poisson regression, stratified by sex and age (<70 and ≥70 years), and results were expressed as incidence rate ratios (
IRR
s) and 95%CIs. Of 100 783 coronary heart disease deaths, 58.8% were
OHCD
s. From 1995 to 2009, age‐adjusted
OHCD
rates declined across all education categories (primary, secondary, and tertiary) in younger men (
IRR
=0.35; 95%
CI
0.32‐0.38;
IRR
=0.38; 95%
CI
0.35‐0.42;
IRR
=0.33; 95%
CI
0.28‐0.40), younger women (
IRR
=0.47; 95%
CI
0.40‐0.56;
IRR
=0.55; 95%
CI
0.45‐0.67;
IRR
=0.28; 95%
CI
0.16‐0.47), older men (
IRR
=0.20; 95%
CI
0.19‐0.22;
IRR
=0.20; 95%
CI
0.18‐0.22;
IRR
=0.20; 95%
CI
0.17‐0.23), and older women (
IRR
=0.26; 95%
CI
0.24‐0.28;
IRR
=0.25; 95%
CI
0.23‐0.28;
IRR
=0.28; 95%
CI
0.22‐0.34). Tertiary education was associated with lower risk of
OHCD
compared to primary education (
IRR
=0.37; 95%
CI
0.35‐0.40 in younger men,
IRR
=0.26; 95%
CI
0.22‐0.30 in younger women,
IRR
=0.52; 95%
CI
0.49‐0.55 in older men, and
IRR
=0.61; 95%
CI
0.57‐0.66 in older women). These gradients did not change over time (
P
interaction=0.25).

Conclusions

Although
OHCD
rates declined substantially during 1995 to 2009, they displayed educational gradients that remained constant over time.
A Comparative Cyberconflict Analysis of Digital Activism Across Post-Soviet Countries
Authors: Karatzogianni Athina , Miazhevich Galina , Denisova Anastasia
Published: February 2017

This article analyses digital activism comparatively in relation to three Post-Soviet regions: Russian/anti-Russian in Crimea and online political deliberation in Belarus, in juxtaposition to Estonia’s digital governance approach. The authors show that in civil societies in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, cultural forms of digital activism, such as internet memes, thrive and produce and reproduce effective forms of political deliberation. In contrast to Estonia, in authoritarian regimes actual massive mobilization and protest is forbidden, or is severely punished with activists imprisoned, persecuted or murdered by the state. This is consistent with use of cultural forms of digital activism in countries where protest is illegal and political deliberation is restricted in government-controlled or oligarchic media. Humorous political commentary might be tolerated online to avoid mobilization and decompress dissent and resistance, yet remaining strictly within censorship and surveillance apparatuses. The authors’ research affirms the potential of internet memes in addressing apolitical crowds, infiltrating casual conversations and providing symbolic manifestation to resistant debates. Yet, the virtuality of the protest undermines its consistency and impact on offline political deliberation. Without knowing each other beyond social media, the participants are unlikely to form robust organisational structures and mobilise for activism offline.
Philosophical Knowledge in Poland
Authors: Kubalica Tomasz
Published: February 2017

This paper presents the problem of philosophical knowledge in Poland, against the background of the historical development of an actually dominant philosophical “knowledge-group”. First, the question of the general understanding of philosophical knowledge, its criteria and its influence on the philosophical community is discussed. Secondly, there is an attempt to answer the question of the general understanding of philosophical knowledge and its influence on the situation in the job market in philosophy, in the context of the situation in the universities.
The identity of Cremanthodium citriflorum (Asteraceae, Senecioneae)
Authors: WANG LONG , REN CHEN , Yang Qin-er
Published: February 2017

Our critical observations of herbarium specimens (including type material) and living plants demonstrate that Cremanthodium citriflorum is identical to C. delavayi and that the holotype sheet of C. farreri is a mixture of C. delavayi and C. farreri. We therefore place C. citriflorum in synonymy with C. delavayi. We recognize C. farreri as an independent species and designate a lectotype for it. In addition, a lectotype is designated for C. delavayi, a species described on the basis of several syntypes.
The jumping plant-lice of the Neotropical genus Tainarys (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) associated with Anacardiaceae
Authors: BURCKHARDT DANIEL , QUEIROZ DALVA L.
Published: February 2017

The Neotropical psyllid genus Tainarys Brèthes, 1920 is revised to include 14 extant and one fossil species from Dominican amber. Eight species are described as new, viz. Tainarys aroeira sp. nov., T. atra sp. nov., T. hapla sp. nov., T. myracrodrui sp. nov., T. nigricornis sp. nov., T. didyma sp. nov. and T. orientalis sp. nov. from Brazil, the last two also from Uruguay, as well as T. lozadai sp. nov. from Peru. The fifth instar immatures are described for nine species. †Vicinilura Klimaszewski, 1996, erected for the fossil †V. reposta Klimaszewski, 1996 and previously synonymised with Leurolophus Tuthill, 1942, is synonymised here (syn. nov.) with Tainarys and †V. reposta is transferred to become †Tainarys reposta (Klimaszewski), comb. nov. The descriptions are supplemented by illustrations and keys for the identification of adults and immatures. Phylogenetic relationships between species are investigated with a cladistic analysis using 22 adult and six immature morphological characters. The analysis resulted in a single most parsimonious, fully resolved tree. The fossil species is nested within the genus rather than being the sister taxon of the remainder of species. The extant species are restricted to the subtropical and temperate parts of South America. Three pairs of sister clades display an east‒west South American and one a midwest‒southern Brazilian geographical vicariance. Host plants are confirmed for nine and likely for another four species. They are Astronium, Haplorhus, Myracrodruon, Schinopsis and Schinus (Anacardiaceae). All Tainarys species appear to be oligophagous inducing irregular leaf curls on their hosts.
Impact of Mountains on Tropical Circulation in Two Earth System Models
Authors: Naiman Zachary , Goodman Paul J. , Krasting John P. , Malyshev Sergey L. , Russell Joellen L. , Stouffer Ronald J. , Wittenberg Andrew T.
Published: February 2017

Two state-of-the-art Earth system models (ESMs) were used in an idealized experiment to explore the role of mountains in shaping Earth’s climate system. Similar to previous studies, removing mountains from both ESMs results in the winds becoming more zonal and weaker Indian and Asian monsoon circulations. However, there are also broad changes to the Walker circulation and El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Without orography, convection moves across the entire equatorial Indo-Pacific basin on interannual time scales. ENSO has a stronger amplitude, lower frequency, and increased regularity. A wider equatorial wind zone and changes to equatorial wind stress curl result in a colder cold tongue and a steeper equatorial thermocline across the Pacific basin during La Niña years. Anomalies associated with ENSO warm events are larger without mountains and have greater impact on the mean tropical climate than when mountains are present. Without mountains, the centennial-mean Pacific Walker circulation weakens in both models by approximately 45%, but the strength of the mean Hadley circulation changes by less than 2%. Changes in the Walker circulation in these experiments can be explained by the large spatial excursions of atmospheric deep convection on interannual time scales. These results suggest that mountains are an important control on the large-scale tropical circulation, impacting ENSO dynamics and the Walker circulation, but have little impact on the strength of the Hadley circulation.