bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrophysiological Characterization of Neuropathy Complicating Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Abuelwafaa Nimat , Ahmed Hana , Omer Ilham , Abdullah Mohamed , Ahmed Ammar , Musa Afraa
Published: July 2019

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) involves sensory and motor nerves, resulting in demyelination as well as axonal degeneration. This study was conducted to describe the pattern of lower limb nerve involvement in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM) based on the parameters of nerve conduction study (NCS). This cross-sectional study recruited 50 children with type 1 DM having mean disease duration of 4.92±3.84 years who attended the referred clinic in Sudan Childhood Diabetes Center. Their mean age was 15.00±2.19 years, 42% were males, and 58% were females. Twenty six matched healthy control subjects were involved; their mean age was 13.88±2.46 years, 38.46% were males, and 61.54% were females. Bilateral NCS of the sensory and motor lower limb nerves was performed using Medelec Synergy machine. Interpretation of the patients’ results was based on our own control reference values. Data was analysed using IBM SPSS statistics. Out of the 50 diabetic patients, 44 (88%) had electrophysiological evidence of peripheral neuropathy (abnormalities in at least two of the electrophysiological parameters). The majority (68.2%) had motor involvement and 31.8% had sensorimotor, while none of them (0%) had pure sensory involvement. Regarding abnormal NCS parameters (conduction velocity vs. amplitude of the compound action potential), conduction slowing feature predominated in 61.4% and only few (6.8%) showed amplitude reduction, while 31.8% showed mixed features. The most frequently affected nerve was the common peroneal, followed by posterior tibial, and the least was the sural nerve. The most sensitive parameter was the common peroneal conduction velocity. Motor precedes sensory nerve involvement. The most frequent neurophysiological abnormality was the conduction slowing, and the common peroneal was the most vulnerable nerve. These findings signify generation of a protocol for early screening of neuropathy in children with type 1 diabetes.
Optimum Extraction Technology for the Seed Oil of Nigella sativa L.
Authors: Ma Changyang , Liu Cunyu , Ahmed Adel F. , Niu Yingying , Kang Wenyi
Published: July 2019

Seed oil of Nigella sativa L. is a popular edible oil in Egypt. How to improve the extraction efficiency of the oil will expand the use of the resource. In this paper, the four extraction factors, particle size of the seed, liquid-seed ratio, extraction time, and temperature, were optimized by the single-factor and orthogonal experiment to increase the extraction yield and linoleic acid concentration. The results showed that the twice extraction technology could increase the oil rate of 23.55% compared with the once extraction technology. The extraction rate of the once extraction could reach 33.51% under the conditions of liquid-seed ratio: 9 : 1 mL/g, extraction temperature: 35°C, extraction time: 1 h, and particle size: 60 meshes. The optimum twice extraction conditions with the extraction rate of 43.78% were 8 : 1 ml/g, 40°C, 1.5 h, and 60 meshes. Besides, the highest concentration of linoleic acid (58.09 mg/g) was twice extraction condition with 7 : 1 mL/g, 40°C, 2 h, and 60 meshes.
Stochastic Analysis of Nonlinear Vehicle‐Track Coupled Dynamic System and Its Application in Vehicle Operation Safety Evaluation
Authors: Liu Fu-Shan , Zeng Zhi-Ping , Wang Wei-Dong , Shuaibu Abdulmumin Ahmed
Published: July 2019

This paper presents a vehicle operation safety evaluation model; to this end, a nonlinear vehicle‐track coupled dynamic system stochastic analysis model under random irregularity excitations based on probability density evolution method was developed. The nonlinear coupled vehicle‐track dynamic system is used to accurately describe the wheel‐rail contact state. The stochastic function‐spectral representation is used to simulate the random track irregularity in the time domain for the first time; consequently, the frequency components in the irregularity are preserved and random variables are reduced. In the process of evaluating the safety of train operation, the probability evolution, reliability of evaluation indices for different limit values, and evaluation indices for different probability limits are calculated for more accurate evaluation. The dynamic model and safety evaluation method was verified using the Zhai‐model and Monte Carlo method. The results show that, when the probability guarantee is increased, the running safety index of the vehicle increases more rapidly with running speed and the left/right wheel‐rail derailment coefficient increases rapidly at running speeds above 400 km/h. The computational model provides a novel direction for vehicle operation safety evaluation.
Morphological Diversity of Gracilaria blodgettii Harvey 1853 (Gracilariaceae, Rhodophyta) from Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo
Authors: Hassan Ruhana , Othman Muhammad Nur Arif , Harith Mohd Nasarudin , Md Sah Amir Shah Ruddin
Published: July 2019

Gracilaria red algae are notable for their economic importance as agrophytes, sold as salad vegetable, and used as the base for selected food and nonalcoholic beverages. A wild population of Gracilaria exists in coastal areas of Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo, but there is only limited knowledge on species diversity and its abundance leaving the untapped economic potential of this resource. This study was carried out to determine diversity of wild Gracilaria populations in Lawas, Santubong, and Asajaya, Sarawak, using the combination of morphological character examination and 5′ region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 (CO1-5P) gene analysis. Identification of the species using morphological characters revealed three species, namely, Gracilaria changii, G. blodgettii, and G. arcuata, had been collected from the sampling sites. However, based on 672 bp CO1-5P gene sequence analysis, all the three species were identified as G. blodgettii; besides, low genetic divergence values (0.17%–0.34%) were scored between samples in this study with the same species in GenBank. In the phylogenetic trees, all samples in this study group together with other G. blodgettii have high bootstrap values; thus, this species is monophyletic. This study implies that species identification of Gracilaria and other seagrass taxa which have a phenotypic plasticity problem should include the CO1-5P gene analysis as it is a reliable gene marker for species diversity assessment.
Carbon Nanotubes: Synthesis via Chemical Vapour Deposition without Hydrogen, Surface Modification, and Application
Authors: Duc Vu Quyen Nguyen , Quang Khieu Dinh , Tuyen Tran Ngoc , Xuan Tin Dang , Thi Hoang Diem Bui
Published: July 2019

The present study describes the growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) on an Fe2O3/Al2O3 precatalyst via a chemical vapour deposition (CVD) process without hydrogen. The obtained multiwalled CNTs exhibit a less-defective structure with an identical external diameter of tubes of around 50 nm. The growth mechanism of CNTs suggests that the Fe2O3/Al2O3 precatalyst is reduced to Fe/Al2O3 during the synthesis process using the products of LPG decomposition, and the tip-growth mechanism is suggested. The resulting CNTs are surface-modified with potassium permanganate in the acid medium and used as an adsorbent for copper from aqueous solutions. The Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models are employed to evaluate the adsorption data, and the maximum adsorption capacity of Cu(II) is 163.7 mg·g−1.
Potential Role of Exosomes in Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Tian Wenjuan , Liu Shanshan , Li Burong
Published: July 2019

High cancer mortality is attributed to metastasis to a large extent. However, cancer metastasis remains devoid of dynamic monitoring and early prevention in terms of current advances in diagnostic means and therapeutic modalities. Meanwhile, studies have shown that reciprocal crosstalk among cells via exosomes plays a critical role in maintaining normal physiological state or triggering disease progression, including cancer metastasis. Therefore, in this review, we focus on the latest literature (primarily from 2018) to summarize action mechanisms and experimental studies of exosomes in cancer metastasis and put forward some problems as well as new outlooks of these studies.
Clinicopathologic Study of Calcifying Fibrous Tumor Emphasizing Different Anatomical Distribution and Favorable Prognosis
Authors: Zhou Jun , Zhou Luting , Wu Sheng , Li Ruokun , Yang Xiaoqun , Xu Haiming , Zheng Saifang , Wang Anran , Wang Chaofu
Published: July 2019

Aims. Calcifying fibrous tumor (CFT) is a very rare begin fibroblastic tumor featuring a widely anatomical distribution and may mimic various spindle cell tumors. Misdiagnosis and hence mistreatment are likely caused due to unfamiliarity to clinicians or junior pathologists. We collected a relatively large series of CFTs in our institution aiming at further summarizing their clinicopathologic features in Chinese patients and discussing the diagnosis and differential diagnosis in clinical practice.Methods.Clinicopathologic data of 22 CFTs were retrospectively reviewed. Histologic features were reevaluated and summarized. Immunostaining markers include CD34, SMA, Desmin, keratin, S100, ALK1, CD117, IgG, IgG4, and Ki-67. Follow-up of all cases was performed.Results. 22 CFTs include gastric (n=8), pulmonary (n=2), hepatic (n=2), cervical (n=1), appendiceal (n=1), esophageal (n=1), retroperitoneal (n=1), intra-abdominal (n=1), diaphragmatic (n=1), spermatic cord and scrotum (n=1), anconeal (n=1), mesenteric (n=1), and omental (n=1) lesions. Coexisting hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatic carcinoma, pheochromocytoma, Castleman disease, and leiomyoma of the uterus and other metabolic or functional disorders were also appreciated. CFT histologically features spindle cells embedded dense hyalinized stroma with scattered psammomatous calcifications and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration and immunohistochemically for CD34. None of any individuals die of CFT per se.Conclusion. Our study discloses that CFT is a bona fide benign fibroblastic lesion, regardless of its developing location. Involvement of digestive tract seems much more common in the Chinese population. Awareness of the clinicopathologic characteristics of this rare entity and its mimickers contribute to avoiding misdiagnosis and mistreatment in clinical practice.
Levels of Myeloperoxidase and Metalloproteinase-9 in Gingival Crevicular Fluid from Diabetic Subjects with and without Stage 2, Grade B Periodontitis
Authors: Peniche-Palma Diana C. , Carrillo-Avila Bertha A. , Sauri-Esquivel Eduardo A. , Acosta-Viana Karla , Esparza-Villalpando Vicente , Pozos-Guillen Amaury , Hernandez-Rios Marcela , Martinez-Aguilar Victor M.
Published: July 2019

Objective.The present study aimed to compare levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from subjects with controlled and noncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2D), with and without stage 2 grade B periodontitis (POD2B) versus healthy (H) subjects.Methods.The levels of both enzymes, from 80 GCF samples collected with PerioPaper strips, were analyzed by a Multiplex/Luminex assay. Five groups were formed, all current patients at the Institutional Dentistry Service, and distributed as follows: two groups of diabetics (one controlled and one poorly controlled); two groups with the previous conditions and diagnosed with POD2B; and one H group.Results.The highest concentration of MMP-9 corresponded to the H group, while the lowest corresponded to the T2D controlled group. Regarding MPO levels, the highest levels were associated with the T2D controlled with POD2B group and the lowest with the T2D controlled group.Conclusions.No apparent relationship between the elevation of MMP-9 and MPO levels was observed among subjects with T2D, with and without POD2B, compared to H subjects.
Study on Dynamic Erosion Behavior of 20# Steel of Natural Gas Gathering Pipeline
Authors: Lv Dongli , Lian Zhanghua , Liang Lindong , Zhang Qichao , Zhang Tao
Published: July 2019

In this paper, a finite element model for the particle-impact target is established for the abrasion erosion failure behavior of 20# steel used in natural gas gathering pipelines. The JC plastic model and failure criterion are used in the model to simulate the failure and damage of the material, and the reliability of the model was verified by comparison with experimental data. The dynamic behavior of particle erosion was studied by using this model. The changes of energy, stress, and morphology at the microscopic level were analyzed. The influence of particle shape, particle size, impact velocity, and impact angle on the erosion rate of 20# steel was obtained. The model is further used to study the influence mechanism of stress interference on erosion damage behavior under multiparticle random drop impact.
Successful Bridge-to-Recovery Treatment in a Young Patient with Fulminant Eosinophilic Myocarditis: Roles of a Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Device and Endomyocardial Biopsy
Authors: Hasegawa-Tamba Saki , Sugi Keiki , Gatate Yodo , Sugiyama Kanako , Muramatsu Toshihiro , Nishimura Shigeyuki , Yasuda Masanori , Fukushima Kenji , Nakano Shintaro
Published: July 2019

Eosinophilic myocarditis (EM) is a rare condition characterized by myocardial eosinophilic infiltration due to various underlying etiologies. The patient with EM may benefit from appropriate use of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) that acts as a bridge to myocardial recovery in response to effective immunosuppressive therapy. A 16-year-old boy presented with cardiogenic shock due to fulminant myocarditis, for which a percutaneous ventricular assist device (PVAD) was immediately inserted. Based on the histological diagnosis of EM, immunosuppressive therapy was immediately commenced, leading to improvement of left-ventricular ejection fraction (27% to 47%). The PVAD was successfully removed on day 7. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and dual-tracer myocardial scintigraphy suggested limited extent of irreversible myocardial damage. For fulminant EM, the short-term use of PVAD, together with immunosuppressive therapy guided by an immediate histological investigation, may be an effective bridging strategy to myocardial recovery.
Bardet-Biedl Syndrome with a Kidney Transplant, Esophageal Adenocarcinoma, and Postoperative Complications
Authors: Yankov Georgi , Mihalova Teodora , Petkov Rosen , Mekov Evgeni , Yankova Stefka , Petrov Danail
Published: July 2019

The authors present a rare clinical case of a patient with Bardet-Biedl syndrome and chronic kidney disease, who reached end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and underwent a long-term hemodialysis treatment, during which infections with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection and Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection were established. Kidney transplantation from an alive unrelated donor was performed. Later, an adenocarcinoma of the esophagus was diagnosed at an early stage, treated surgically with resection of the esophagus and gastroesophagoplasty afterward. Seven months later, a rare complication of the immunosuppressive therapy with Cyclosporin A occurred, which consisted of spontaneous bilateral pleural hemorrhage. The same, as well as the postoperative ventral hernia, was successfully resolved. Concomitant HCV was also treated. Rare autosomal recessive syndrome with severe complications, adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, spontaneous bilateral pleural hemorrhage after the operation, and successful treatment were discussed.
Damage-Associated Molecular Patterns and Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients
Authors: Brajer-Luftmann Beata , Nowicka Agata , Kaczmarek Mariusz , Wyrzykiewicz Magdalena , Yasar Senan , Piorunek Tomasz , Sikora Jan , Batura-Gabryel Halina
Published: July 2019

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are present in the human lung microenvironment, and they may be involved in the local inflammatory process in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Chronic inflammation in COPD may induce immunogenic cell death of structural airway cells, causing the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). DAMPs may activate the innate and adaptive immune system. The relationship between MDSCs and DAMPs in COPD is poorly described in the available literature.Objectives. (1) Assessment of MDSC percentage and DAMP concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and peripheral blood. (2) Analysis of the relationship between MDSC percentage and chosen DAMPs.Patients and Methods. 30 COPD patients were included. Using monoclonal antibodies directly conjugated with fluorochromes in flow cytometry, MDSCs were assessed in BALF and peripheral blood. The concentration of DAMPs was estimated using sandwich ELISA. Using the Bradford method, the total protein concentrations were evaluated.Results. The percentage of MDSCs among MC in BALF correlated well with the concentration of defensin and heat shock protein 27. Assessing the percentage of MDSCs among all leukocytes in BALF, we revealed a significant correlation with the concentration of defensin, hyaluronic acid, and surfactant protein A. No dependencies occurred between DAMPs and MDSCs in peripheral blood.Conclusion. MDSCs and DAMPs occur in the COPD patient lung microenvironment. Significant correlations between them found in BALF may indicate their influence on the local inflammatory process in COPD. These relationships allow better understanding of the inflammatory process in COPD.
Innate αβ T Cells Mediate Antitumor Immunity by Orchestrating Immunogenic Macrophage Programming
Authors: Hundeyin Mautin , Kurz Emma , Mishra Ankita , Rossi Juan Andres Kochen , Liudahl Shannon M. , Leis Kenna R. , Mehrotra Harshita , Kim Mirhee , Torres Luisana E. , Ogunsakin Adesola , Link Jason , Sears Rosalie C. , Sivagnanam Shamilene , Goecks Jeremy , Islam K.M. Sadeq , Dolgalev Igor , Savadkar Shivraj , Wang Wei , Aykut Berk , Leinwand Joshua , Diskin Brian , Adam Salma , Israr Muhammad , Gelas Maeliss , Lish Justin , Chin Kathryn , Farooq Mohammad Saad , Wadowski Benjamin , Wu Jingjing , Shah Suhagi , Adeegbe Dennis O. , Pushalkar Smruti , Vasudevaraja Varshini , Saxena Deepak , Wong Kwok-Kin , Coussens Lisa M. , Miller George
Published: July 2019

Unconventional T-lymphocyte populations are emerging as important regulators of tumor immunity. Despite this, the role of TCRαβ+CD4−CD8−NK1.1− innate αβ T cells (iαβT) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) has not been explored. We found that iαβTs represent ∼10% of T lymphocytes infiltrating PDA in mice and humans. Intratumoral iαβTs express a distinct T-cell receptor repertoire and profoundly immunogenic phenotype compared with their peripheral counterparts and conventional lymphocytes. iαβTs comprised ∼75% of the total intratumoral IL17+ cells. Moreover, iαβT-cell adoptive transfer is protective in both murine models of PDA and human organotypic systems. We show that iαβT cells induce a CCR5-dependent immunogenic macrophage reprogramming, thereby enabling marked CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell expansion/activation and tumor protection. Collectively, iαβTs govern fundamental intratumoral cross-talk between innate and adaptive immune populations and are attractive therapeutic targets.

Significance:

We found that iαβTs are a profoundly activated T-cell subset in PDA that slow tumor growth in murine and human models of disease. iαβTs induce a CCR5-dependent immunogenic tumor-associated macrophage program, T-cell activation and expansion, and should be considered as novel targets for immunotherapy.

See related commentary by Banerjee et al., p. 1164.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1143
Examining Listener Reaction Time in the Perceptual Assessment of Dysarthria
Authors: Fletcher Annalise R. , Risi Rebecca A. , Wisler Alan , McAuliffe Megan J.
Published: July 2019

Objective: In the perceptual assessment of dysarthria, various approaches are used to examine the accuracy of listeners’ speech transcriptions and their subjective impressions of speech disorder. However, less attention has been given to the effort and cognitive resources required to process speech samples. This study explores the relationship between transcription accuracy, comprehensibility, subjective impressions of speech, and objective measures of reaction time (RT) to further examine the challenges involved in processing dysarthric speech. Patients and Methods: Sixteen listeners completed 3 experimental listening tasks: a sentence transcription task, a rating scale task, and an RT task that required responses to veracity statements. In each task, the speech stimuli included speech from 8 individuals with dysarthria. Results: Measurements from the 3 tasks were significantly related, with a correlation coefficient of –0.94 between average RT and transcription-based intelligibility scores and –0.89 between RT and listener ratings of dysarthria. Interrater reliability of RT measurements was relatively low when considering a single person’s response to stimuli. However, reliability reached an acceptable level when a mean was taken from 8 listeners. Conclusions: RT tasks could be developed as a reliable adjunct in the assessment of listener effort and speech processing.
A Randomized Controlled Trial to Investigate the Impact of Tango Argentino versus Tai Chi on Quality of Life in Patients with Parkinson Disease: A Short Report
Authors: Poier Désirée , Rodrigues Recchia Daniela , Ostermann Thomas , Büssing Arndt
Published: July 2019

Objectives: Parkinson disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with increasing impairments in disease progression. The aim of the pilot study was to investigate the influence of Tango argentino on the quality of life of people with PD compared to Tai Chi. Design, Setting, Interventions: In the two-arm, randomized controlled pilot study, patients with PD received a 10-week Tango argentino or Tai Chi intervention (once per week, 60 min each). Main Outcome Measures: The outcome parameters were assessed at three time points (after the 1st course, after the 5th course, and after the 10th course) using standardized instruments, i.e., Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39), Brief Multidimensional Life Satisfaction Scale (BMLSS), Inner Congruence with Practices (ICPH). Results: Overall, 14 patients and their partners received Tango argentino (9 male, 5 female; mean age: 69 ± 8 years) and 15 received Tai Chi (3 male, 12 female; mean age: 69 ± 11 years). Four patients in each group were lost during the trial. No improvements were found in both groups for all outcomes. Patients in the tango group reported better emotional well-being (p = 0.039) after 10 weeks of intervention compared to the Tai Chi group. Conclusions: Further studies are needed taking into account findings from this study to improve recruitment and attrition of patients during the trial and to justify the potential implementation of Tango argentino into clinical care.
Comparison of Corneal Epithelial and Stromal Thickness between Keratoconic and Normal Eyes in an Asian Population
Authors: Wang Qing , Lim Li , Lim Samuel Wen Yan , Htoon Hla Myint
Published: July 2019

Purpose: To assess corneal epithelial and stromal thickness in keratoconic and normal eyes by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) in an Asian population. Methods: Forty-three keratoconic and 24 normal eyes were studied and examined using SDOCT. Keratoconic eyes with corneal scarring were excluded. Epithelial and stromal thickness was assessed at 25 points, 0.5 mm apart, across the central 6 mm of the pupil centre in the horizontal and vertical meridians. The correlation between epithelial and stromal thickness in both keratoconic and normal eyes (at the corneal centre) was also assessed. Results: The corneal epithelium at the pupil centre was significantly thinner in keratoconic eyes (p < 0.05) than in controls. Epithelial thickness varied widely in keratoconic eyes compared to controls (p < 0.05). The epithelium and stroma were significantly thinner inferiorly and temporally in keratoconic eyes (p < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between epithelial and stromal thickness (at the pupil centre) in the keratoconus group (rs = 0.348, p < 0.001) but not the normal group (rs = 0.036, p = 0.376). Conclusions: Corneal epithelial thickness was markedly thinner and varied in keratoconic eyes compared to controls. Epithelial thinning occurred secondary to the abnormal elevation of the stroma. These findings are useful in detecting early keratoconus and in the evaluation of refractive surgery candidates.
Clinical Predictors of Successful and Earlier Removal of Indwelling Pleural Catheters in Benign Pleural Effusions
Authors: Li Pen , Hosseini Sarah , Zhang Tinghua , Amjadi Kayvan
Published: July 2019

Background: Indwelling pleural catheters (IPCs) are an emerging therapy for persistent benign pleural effusions. IPCs may achieve pleurodesis and be removed. Objectives: We aimed to identify factors associated with higher pleurodesis rates and earlier IPC removal in benign pleural effusions. Methods: We reviewed a database of IPCs inserted for nonmalignant pleural effusions in the period August 2007 to June 2017 in patients who underwent medical thoracoscopy (MT). Clinical, radiologic, and pleural fluid data were recorded. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards were used to assess the rate of and time to pleurodesis. Results: 304 IPCs were reviewed. 52 were excluded from the pleurodesis analysis due to removal for another reason, or because of an eventual diagnosis of malignant disease. The overall pleurodesis rate was 74%, and median time to pleurodesis was 42 (IQR 18–93) days. Variables with increased pleurodesis rates in multivariate analysis include Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status score of ≤2 (odds ratio [OR] 4.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.75–10.16) and MT (OR 5.27, 95% CI 2.74–10.11). No variables were associated with reduced pleurodesis rates in multivariate analysis. Variables that predicted earlier removal in multivariate analysis included secondary pleural infection (hazard ratio [HR] 14.19, 95% CI 4.11–48.91), % eosinophils (HR 1.03, 95% CI 1.01–1.05), and connective tissue disease (HR 2.59, 95% CI 1.20–5.57). Variables that predicted delayed removal include pleural effusion above the hilum (HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.34–0.85), liver failure (HR 0.31, 95% CI 0.16–0.60), and heart failure (HR 0.32, 95% CI 0.20–0.52). Conclusions: IPCs are safe in benign effusions. Clinicians should consider numerous factors when predicting the rate of and time to pleurodesis.
Targeting the Enteric Nervous System to Treat Metabolic Disorders? “Enterosynes” as Therapeutic Gut Factors
Authors: Knauf Claude , Abot Anne , Wemelle Eve , Cani Patrice D.
Published: July 2019

The gut-brain axis is of crucial importance for controlling glucose homeostasis. Alteration of this axis promotes the type 2 diabetes (T2D) phenotype (hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance). Recently, a new concept has emerged to demonstrate the crucial role of the enteric nervous system in the control of glycaemia via the hypothalamus. In diabetic patients and mice, modification of enteric neurons activity in the proximal part of the intestine generates a duodenal hyper-contractility that generates an aberrant message from the gut to the brain. In turn, the hypothalamus sends an aberrant efferent message that provokes a state of insulin resistance, which is characteristic of a T2D state. Targeting the enteric nervous system of the duodenum is now recognized as an innovative strategy for treatment of diabetes. By acting in the intestine, bioactive gut molecules that we called “enterosynes” can modulate the function of a specific type of neurons of the enteric nervous system to decrease the contraction of intestinal smooth muscle cells. Here, we focus on the origins of enterosynes (hormones, neurotransmitters, nutrients, microbiota, and immune factors), which could be considered therapeutic factors, and we describe their modes of action on enteric neurons. This unsuspected action of enterosynes is proposed for the treatment of T2D, but it could be applied for other therapeutic solutions that implicate communication between the gut and brain.
Heart Rate Variability and Academic Performance of First-Year University Students
Authors: Thomas Bianca Lee , Viljoen Margaretha
Published: July 2019

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) measures have been shown to be positively associated with cognitive processing, while a positive association between cognitive processing and academic performance has been demonstrated. Objectives: To determine whether resting HRV or HRV marker response to either a cognitive or an orthostatic challenge is significantly associated with a first-year university student’s academic performance. Method: HRV markers used in the study included total power (TP) as a measure of overall HRV and the root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) as a measure of parasympathetic influence on the heart. Academic performance was determined by standardized general mean scores. Results: Greater supine overall HRV (TP) was significantly associated with greater academic performance predominantly in females. Vagal (RMSSD) measures were not shown to be associated with academic performance. Conclusions: This, to our knowledge, is the first study to show that overall HRV has a significant positive association with academic performance of a first-year university student.
Benign Postnatal Outcome after Prenatal Diagnosis of Fetal Ventriculomegaly with Choroid Plexus Hyperplasia: A Case Report
Authors: Forte Dalila , Cardoso Diogo Mariana , Conceição Carla , Sagarribay Amets
Published: July 2019

Prenatal counselling following the diagnosis of fetal ventriculomegaly is challenging. Fetal MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) can be helpful in characterizing ventriculomegaly severity and associated anomalies, hence contributing to prognosis establishment. Choroid plexus hyperplasia (CPH) is a rare entity characterized by enlargement of the choroid plexuses, usually progressing to severe hydrocephalus with an associated poor outcome. We present a case of CPH diagnosed by fetal MRI at 23 weeks of gestation following referral for ventriculomegaly. The pregnancy was carried to term and the child was monitored clinically and radiologically. Despite the persistence of enlarged choroid plexuses, the ventricular size has progressively decreased, and at the 4-year follow-up the child presented normal psychomotor development. This case highlights the added value of MRI in prenatal diagnosis of fetal ventriculomegaly and its management. The unusual benign outcome in this case can be considered for parental counselling when faced with a fetus with similar findings.
Clinical Course and Management of Vein of Galen Varix of the Neonate: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Mochizuki Yuichi , Niimi Yasunari , Sato Shinsuke , Inoue Tatsuya , Kuwamoto Kentaro , Shima Shogo , Mochizuki Tatsuki , Kawamata Takakazu , Okada Yoshikazu
Published: July 2019

A 28-year-old pregnant woman underwent an emergency caesarian section after 39 weeks of gestation because of decreased fetal movement and baseline fetal heart rate variability. The neonate was diagnosed with neonatal asphyxia and presented with right cardiac failure due to pulmonary hypertension. The neonate presented convulsion, and plane computed tomography (CT) showed dilation of the vein of Galen and sinuses on day 3. Magnetic resonance imaging and CT with contrast were performed after cardiac failure subsided, and there was no evidence of arteriovenous shunt and normalization of the vein of Galen. The patient was diagnosed with vein of Galen varix (VGV). In the previous literature, only 3 cases of VGV have been reported. VGV is considered to be caused by right cardiac failure without the presence of an arteriovenous shunt and requires treatment only for cardiac failure and its cause. Therefore, it is important to differentiate VGV from vein of Galen aneurysmal malformation.
Evaluation of Postural Changes Using Dynamic Posturography after Speech Rehabilitation in Patients with Voice Disorders: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Caçador Maria , Papoila Ana , Brás-Geraldes Carlos , Garcia Carlos Stapleton , Constantino Tânia , Almeida Mafalda , Paço João
Published: July 2019

Background: The association between voice and body posture is consensual across the scientific literature and seems to be established both ways. Any changes in normal posture can influence the mechanisms of vocal production; on the other hand, vocal rehabilitation can influence posture. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the postural pattern in subjects with organic voice disorders before and after speech rehabilitation, using computerised dynamic posturography (CDP). Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 21 patients affected by dysphonia caused by benign vocal fold lesions, never treated with speech therapy/vocal training, were submitted to a posturographic analysis using CDP before and after vocal rehabilitation/therapy. Each patient underwent an accurate voice and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) anamnesis, a general ENT examination, a rigid and flexible laryngoscopy, a videolaryngostroboscopy, an acoustic voice analysis including aerodynamic evaluation, and a perceptual evaluation of voice using the Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, and Strain (GRBAS) scale and the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) questionnaire, before and after vocal therapy. Fifteen healthy age- and sex-matched volunteers were also submitted to a posturographic analysis on the day of recruitment and 4 weeks later. Results: All patients showed an improvement in voice quality after vocal training. The VHI decreased in all subjects, and the GRBAS scale showed a decrease in all parameters in each vowel (/a/, /i/, /e/) and in spontaneous speech (p < 0.001 for all). Posturographic results showed an improvement in equilibrium score, in conditions 2–6 and composite score. Strategic analysis results showed an improvement in conditions 1–6. Conclusions: The posturographic analysis showed a significant difference in the visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive component of posture after voice therapy. These results showed that dysphonic patients changed their postural patterns after an effective voice treatment, with an improvement in postural performance. It seems like modifications of breathing pattern and voice production techniques led to objective and measurable postural changes.
Associations between Subtalar Muscle Strength and Balance Performance in Healthy Young and Old Adults
Authors: Hagen Marco , Seidel Sebastian , Sanchez Bergmann Daniel , Muehlbauer Thomas
Published: July 2019

Background: Associations between lower limb muscle strength and balance performance in adults have previously been reported. However, the function of the foot muscles for postural control has not been understood, yet. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to investigate associations between pronator and supinator muscle strength, subtalar range of motion (ROM) and postural stability while standing under various conditions in young versus old adults. Methods: Using a custom-built apparatus equipped with a force transducer and an electrogoniometer, maximum voluntary isometric subtalar pronator and supinator strength as well as ROM tests were administered to 30 young (mean age: 25.1 years) and 30 old (mean age: 65.2 years) volunteers. Total active subtalar ROM, peak pronator and peak supinator torques were measured. While standing on a force plate, limits of stability (LOS) were determined during anterior–posterior (AP) and medio-lateral (ML) leaning tasks. Furthermore, sway distance and velocity during single-legged standing were measured. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted. Results: In both age groups, subtalar pronator muscle strength was related to AP-LOS (young: r = 0.36; old: r = 0.49). In young adults, subtalar supinator muscle strength was associated with ML-LOS (r = 0.41). The regression analyses revealed that summed subtalar muscle strength predicts 13 and 20% of the variance of AP-LOS in young and old adults, respectively. Summed subtalar muscle strength was found to predict 18% of the variance in ML-LOS in young but not in old adults. There were no correlations and no predictors found concerning subtalar muscle strength and postural sway during single-legged standing for both age groups. Conclusions: Longitudinal studies have to proof whether pronator muscle strength training might positively affect balance performance during AP leaning, specifically in old adults.
Frequency and Reasons of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Discontinuation and Switching of P2Y12 Inhibitors in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Treated with Stent Implantation
Authors: Fuertes Ferre Georgina , Caballero Jambrina Isabel , Ruiz Aranjuelo Alejandra , Jimeno Sánchez Javier , Galache Osuna Jose Gabriel , Andrés Esteban Eva María , Casasnovas Lenguas Jose Antonio , Diarte de Miguel Jose Antonio
Published: July 2019

Background: Incidence and reasons of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) discontinuation and switching between P2Y12 inhibitors in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients treated with a stent have been poorly studied. Methods and Results: In a prospective single-center study, 283 consecutive patients presenting with ACS were treated with stent implantation between July 2015 and January 2016. Follow-up was achieved at 12 months in 273 patients using the electronic patient file and telephone interview. Switching from clopidogrel to a new antiplatelet agent (ticagrelor or prasugrel) or vice versa occurred in 60 (21.2%) patients. The most frequent reasons for switching were medical decisions not associated with bleeding events and concomitant use of chronic oral anticoagulation. Among the patients with a 1-year follow-up, 42 (15.4%) prematurely discontinued DAPT; 25 of them did so due to the need for an invasive procedure. DAPT premature discontinuation was not significantly associated with an increased 1-year risk of cardiovascular death or serious cardiac ischemic events (HR 2.08 [CI 95%: 0.88–4.94, p = 0.099]). Conclusions: DAPT discontinuation and switching between P2Y12 inhibitors are not uncommon in patients with ACS treated with a stent. The most frequent reasons were the need for an invasive procedure and medical decisions.
Effect of Baduanjin Qigong Exercise on Cancer-Related Fatigue in Patients with Colorectal Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lu Yun , Qu Hui-Qin , Chen Feng-Ying , Li Xiao-Ting , Cai Lan , Chen Shan , Sun Yuan-Yuan
Published: July 2019

Background: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most troubling symptoms of cancer patients during chemotherapy, and no gold standard for the treatment of CRF has been established. Objective: This study aimed to examine the effects of the Baduanjin qigong on patients with colorectal cancer and CRF, and to explore its intervention effects. Methods: This was an open-label, randomized controlled clinical trial. Ninety patients with chemotherapy-treated colorectal cancer and CRF were randomized to a Baduanjin exercise group or a routine care group. The primary outcome was the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI) score at 24 weeks. The secondary outcomes were the Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores at 24 weeks. Results: There were no significant differences between the two groups in CRF level at baseline and 12 weeks. At 24 weeks, the proportion of patients with moderate-to-severe CRF was significantly smaller in the exercise group than in the control group (23.2 vs. 59.1%, p < 0.01). The KPS and PSQI scores were similar in the two groups at baseline and 12 weeks, but they were significantly higher and lower, respectively, at 24 weeks in the exercise group compared with the control group (KPS score: 89.3 ± 8.3 vs. 75.2 ± 11.5, p < 0.01; PSQI score: 4.1 ± 1.1 vs. 6.9 ± 2.0, p < 0.01). Significant time-group interactions were observed for all three scores (all p < 0.01). Conclusions: Baduanjin qigong exercise can relieve CRF in patients with colorectal cancer undergoing chemotherapy and can improve their physical activity level and their quality of sleep.
45,X/46,X,i(Yp): Importance of Assessment and Support during Puberty and Adolescence
Authors: Gaudino Rossella , Maines Evelina , Guizzardi Fabiana , Vezzoli Valeria , Krausz Csilla , Cavarzere Paolo , Piacentini Giorgio , Antoniazzi Franco , Bonomi Marco
Published: July 2019

The Y-chromosome genes are primarily involved in sex determination, stature control, spermatogenesis, and fertility. Among structural rearrangements of the Y chromosome, the isochromosome of Yp, i(Yp), appears to be the most uncommon. We describe a detailed evolution of puberty in a boy with 45,X/46,X,i(Yp). Array CGH found 2 cell lines, one with i(Yp) and the other with monosomy X. Genetic analysis of currently known genes involved in Kallmann syndrome/normosomic central hypogonadotropic hypogonadism showed no abnormality. The patient presented with a pubertal course suggestive of a delayed puberty with gynecomastia, reduced growth rate, and infertility that need testosterone treatment to induce the appearance of the secondary sex characteristics. This patient shows the potential effects of i(Yp) and emphasizes the importance of appropriate management of puberty in people with 45,X/46,X,i(Yp). Early hormone treatment, concerns regarding fertility, emotional support, and a successful transition to adult care may help improve the physical and psychosocial well-being of affected patients.
Dietary Patterns of Children Aged 1–3 Years in Poland in Two Population Studies
Authors: Weker Halina , Brudnicka Elżbieta , Barańska Marta , Rowicka Grażyna , Strucińska Małgorzata , Więch Małgorzata , Dyląg Hanna , Klemarczyk Witold , Socha Piotr , Mazur Joanna
Published: July 2019

Background: The levels of nutrition that children receive in their first years of life greatly determine their psychosomatic development. Aim: The study was to identify dietary patterns of children aged 1–3 years based on data on food consumption structure from 2 population studies performed in Poland (2011 and 2016) and to assess changes in product selection in the children’s diets with respect to their nutritional status. Methods: Both studies were performed on nationwide representative samples (2011: n = 400; 2016: n = 612) using questionnaire surveys. Nutritional status was estimated using body weight-to-height z-score. Feeding practices were evaluated based on 3-day dietary/food records, including 1 weekend day. Results: Four dietary patterns of toddlers were identified and changes in the distribution of these patterns in the population after 5 years were analysed and compared. Diets of children in the second year of life were better balanced in terms of energy and nutritional value owing to young child formula content. Diets of children in the third year of life were higher in energy and protein, with a higher percentage of energy derived from saccharose. Diets of all groups of children were deficient in long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamin D and potassium but excessive in sodium. Conclusions: Over 5 years, the percentage of children on a diet with high intake of formula for young children significantly decreased but increased on a diet with high dairy content. Dietary patterns of toddlers were associated with their weight by height z score and nutrient profile.
Trichophyton erinacei Onychomycosis: The First to Evidence a Proximal Subungual Onychomycosis Pattern
Authors: Phaitoonwattanakij Sutasinee , Leeyaphan Charussri , Bunyaratavej Sumanus , Chinhiran Kittipoom
Published: July 2019

Trichophyton erinacei is an emerging cause of dermatophyte infections, which are frequently isolated from hedgehogs. Nail infections from T. erinacei are rarely reported. We describe the case of a 23-year-old Thai female who had a history of systemic lupus erythematosus with lupus nephritis type III and who developed widespread skin and nail infections caused by T. erinacei that were most likely transmitted from a hedgehog. Although the patient did not demonstrate a clinical improvement or mycological cure following systemic itraconazole and fluconazole treatment, she achieved clinical and mycological cures after terbinafine therapy. A drug susceptibility test should be performed in patients with T. erinacei infections to facilitate decision-making about antifungal therapy. Here, we are the first to report a case of proximal subungual onychomycosis from a T. erinacei infection.
First fossil Litoleptis (Diptera: Spaniidae) from the Lower Cretaceous amber of San Just (Teruel Province, Spain)
Authors: ARILLO ANTONIO , PEÑALVER ENRIQUE , GARCÍA-GIMENO VICTORIA
Published: July 2019

In this paper Litoleptis fossilis sp. nov. a new fossil species belonging to the family Spaniidae (Diptera) is described. This is the first time the genus Litoleptis has been described from the fossil record. A comparison with extant species of Litoleptis and other fossil rhagionoids is done. The fossil is also compared to not closely related Diptera but having convergent wing venation. Palaeoecological and palaeobiogeographical comments are provided.
Two new species of Neoblattella Shelford, 1911 (Blattellidae, Pseudophyllodromiinae) from the state of Amazonas, Brazil
Authors: LOPES SONIA MARIA , KHOURI ANDRÉA
Published: July 2019

Two new species of Neoblattella Shelford, 1911 (Blattellidae, Pseudophyllodromiinae) are described from Brazil: N. amazonensis and N. poecilopensis. Illustrations of the male genitalia are presented.
Molecular phylogenetics and taxonomy of leaf-toed geckos (Phyllodactylidae: Phyllodactylus) inhabiting the peninsula of Baja California
Authors: BLAIR CHRISTOPHER , DE LA CRUZ FAUSTO R. MÉNDEZ , NGO ANDRE , LINDELL JOHAN , LATHROP AMY , MURPHY ROBERT W.
Published: July 2019

Herein we assess the phylogenetic relationships and taxonomy of geckos of the genus Phyllodactylus inhabiting the peninsula of Baja California, Mexico using five mitochondrial and two nuclear genes. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum parsimony (MP) and Bayesian inference (BI) recovered three distinct peninsular clades with high statistical support. Sequence divergence estimates between peninsular taxa approached 13%. Two of the species, P. unctus and P. xanti are Cape Region endemics, whereas P. nocticolus is widespread throughout much of the peninsula and extreme southern California. Monophyly of the peninsular taxa was strongly supported. In the MP analysis, P. unctus rooted at the base of the peninsular clade, resolving P. xanti and P. nocticolus as sister taxa. Conversely, BI placed P. nocticolus and P. unctus as sister taxa. These data provide further evidence for a trans-peninsular seaway near the Isthmus of La Paz, severing the Cape Region from the rest of the peninsula. The analysis also supports the validity of P. nocticolus as a distinct species and suggests a single invasion to the peninsula from mainland Mexico, presumably during tectonic activity during the Miocene.
Description of Ophthalmolycus andersoni sp. nov. (Pisces, Zoarcidae) from the Antarctic Ocean
Authors: MATALLANAS JESÚS
Published: July 2019

A new species of zoarcid fish is described on the basis of three specimens collected from the Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctic Ocean. The new species can be distinguished from its congeners by its body shape and pigment pattern, and by the following combination of characters: 6 branchiostegal rays; pectoral-fin origin well below midbody, pectoral base extending ventrally to abdomen; lateral line double with ventral and medio-lateral branches; oral valve not reaching anterior edge of vomer; gill slit extending ventrally well below end of pectoral fin base; vertebrae asymmetrical 22+7074=92-96; dorsal fin origin associated with vertebrae 4 or 5 with no supraneurals; pectoral fin rays 16 or 17; 2 postorbital pores (positions 1 & 4) and 2 well developed pyloric caeca. The relationships of the new species with its congeners are discussed.