bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The European Narcolepsy Network (EU‐NN) database
Authors: Khatami Ramin , Luca Gianina , Baumann Christian R. , Bassetti Claudio L. , Bruni Oliviero , Canellas Francesca , Dauvilliers Yves , Del Rio‐Villegas Rafael , Feketeova Eva , Ferri Raffaele , Geisler Peter , Högl Birgit , Jennum Poul , Kornum Birgitte R. , Lecendreux Michel , Martins‐da‐Silva Antonio , Mathis Johannes , Mayer Geert , Paiva Teresa , Partinen Markku , Peraita‐Adrados Rosa , Plazzi Guiseppe , Santamaria Joan , Sonka Karel , Riha Renata , Tafti Mehdi , Wierzbicka Aleksandra , Young Peter , Lammers Gert Jan , Overeem Sebastiaan ,   European Narcolepsy Network
Published: January 2016

Narcolepsy with cataplexy is a rare disease with an estimated prevalence of 0.02% in European populations. Narcolepsy shares many features of rare disorders, in particular the lack of awareness of the disease with serious consequences for healthcare supply. Similar to other rare diseases, only a few European countries have registered narcolepsy cases in databases of the International Classification of Diseases or in registries of the European health authorities. A promising approach to identify disease‐specific adverse health effects and needs in healthcare delivery in the field of rare diseases is to establish a distributed expert network. A first and important step is to create a database that allows collection, storage and dissemination of data on narcolepsy in a comprehensive and systematic way. Here, the first prospective web‐based European narcolepsy database hosted by the European Narcolepsy Network is introduced. The database structure, standardization of data acquisition and quality control procedures are described, and an overview provided of the first 1079 patients from 18 European specialized centres. Due to its standardization this continuously increasing data pool is most promising to provide a better insight into many unsolved aspects of narcolepsy and related disorders, including clear phenotype characterization of subtypes of narcolepsy, more precise epidemiological data and knowledge on the natural history of narcolepsy, expectations about treatment effects, identification of post‐marketing medication side‐effects, and will contribute to improve clinical trial designs and provide facilities to further develop phase III trials.
Experimental Evaluation of Large Spacing Compound Angle Full-Coverage Film Cooling Arrays: Adiabatic Film Cooling Effectiveness
Authors: Natsui Greg , Claretti Roberto , Ricklick Mark A. , Kapat Jayanta S. , Crawford Michael E. , Brown Glenn , Landis Kenneth
Published: January 2016

Adiabatic film cooling effectiveness contours are obtained experimentally with the use of temperature sensitive paint (TSP) on low thermal conductivity film cooled surfaces. The effects of blowing ratio, surface angle, and hole spacing are observed by testing four full-coverage arrays composed of cylindrical staggered holes all compounded at 45 deg, which parametrically vary the inclination angles, 30 deg and 45 deg, and the spacing of the holes 14.5 and 19.8 times the diameter. Local film cooling effectiveness is obtained throughout these largely spaced arrays to 23 rows for the 19.8 diameter spacing array and 30 rows for the 14.5 diameter spacing array. The coolant takes several rows to merge and begin to interact with lateral holes at these large spacings; however, at downstream rows the film merges laterally and provides high effectiveness in the gaps between injections. At low blowing, each individual jet remains discrete throughout the array. At higher blowing rates, the profile is far more uniform due to jets spreading as they reattach with the wall. Laterally averaged values of effectiveness approach 0.3 in most cases with some high blowing low spacing, even reaching 0.5.
Static and Dynamic Behavior of Circular Cylindrical Shell Made of Hyperelastic Arterial Material
Authors: Breslavsky Ivan D. , Amabili Marco , Legrand Mathias
Published: January 2016

Static and dynamic responses of a circular cylindrical shell made of hyperelastic arterial material are studied. The material is modeled as a combination of Neo-Hookean and Fung materials. Two types of pressure loads are studied—distributed radial forces and deformation-dependent pressure. The static responses of the shell under these two loads differ essentially at moderate strains, while the behavior is similar for small loads. The principal difference is that the axial displacements are much larger for the shell under distributed radial forces, while for actual pressure the shell is stretched both in circumferential and axial directions. Free and forced vibrations around preloaded configurations are analyzed. In both cases, the nonlinearity of the single-mode (driven mode) response of the preloaded shell is quite weak, but a resonant regime with both driven and companion modes active has been found with more complicated nonlinear dynamics.
Actuator Constrained Motion Cueing Algorithm for a Redundantly Actuated Stewart Platform
Authors: Pradipta Justin , Sawodny Oliver
Published: January 2016

An improved method to provide a motion trajectory for full flight simulator to simulate the acceleration during a flight simulation is presented. The motion cueing trajectory is based on a constrained optimization problem, with the generated optimal acceleration cues subjected to the actuators travel constraints of the motion platform. The motion platform researched in this contribution is a redundantly actuated parallel manipulator, therefore the available workspace is more limited and the actuator constraints become more complex. The differential kinematic analysis is utilized in the optimization problem to define the relationship of the acceleration in the platform coordinate and in the actuator coordinates. An acceleration profile is defined in function of the actuator travel to create a strict acceleration constraint in the actuator coordinate, thus a strict travel constraint. The algorithm is tested in a simulation and implemented in a full size redundantly actuated motion platform. Measurement results show that the proposed new motion cueing algorithm (MCA) is able to keep the actuators within their travel limit and at the same time provide the correct motion cues for the simulator pilots. The need to tune the MCA for the worst case scenario which is necessary to avoid damage to the platform, while at the same time can be disadvantageous for the normal case use, is relieved by the utilization of the online optimization process.
Dual-Tasking Effects on Dynamic Postural Stability in Athletes With and Without Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Mohammadi-Rad Shahrzad , Salavati Mahyar , Ebrahimi-Takamjani Ismail , Akhbari Behnam , Sherafat Shiva , Negahban Hossein , Lali Pezhman , Mazaheri Masood
Published: January 2016

Purpose:

To compare the effect of dual tasking on postural stability between patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R) and healthy controls.

Methods:

Single-limb postural stability was assessed in 17 athletes with ACL-R and 17 healthy matched athletes while standing on a Biodex Balance System platform in 4 conditions: stability level of 8 (ie, more-stable support surface) with eyes open, stability level of 8 with eyes closed, stability level of 6 (ie, less-stable support surface) with eyes open, and stability level of 6 with eyes closed. Postural-stability tasks were performed with and without auditory Stroop task. The anteroposterior stability index (APSI), mediolateral stability index (MLSI), and overall stability index (OSI) as measures of postural performance, as well as reaction time and error ratio as measures of cognitive performance, were recorded.

Results:

Dual-tasking effect on postural stability was not significantly different between the groups in 3 postural conditions. Only in level 6 with eyes open, for APSI and OSI, patients with ACL-R showed lower postural stability under the dual-task condition. However, patients showed poorer performance on both reaction time and error ratio in all postural conditions.

Conclusions:

The patients with ACL-R appeared to sacrifice their cognitive performance to optimize their performance on postural stability. This posture-first strategy was reflected by a more pronounced effect of dual tasking on the auditory Stroop task than the postural-stability task. In situations where maintenance of posture is challenging, giving priority to the postural task at the expense of cognitive performance can ensure safety from balance loss.
Chlorhexidine Induces VanA-Type Vancomycin Resistance Genes in Enterococci
Authors: Bhardwaj Pooja , Ziegler Elizabeth , Palmer Kelli L.
Published: January 2016

Chlorhexidine is a bisbiguanide antiseptic used for infection control. Vancomycin-resistant
E. faecium
(VREfm) is among the leading causes of hospital-acquired infections. VREfm may be exposed to chlorhexidine at supra- and subinhibitory concentrations as a result of chlorhexidine bathing and chlorhexidine-impregnated central venous catheter use. We used RNA sequencing to investigate how VREfm responds to chlorhexidine gluconate exposure. Among the 35 genes upregulated ≥10-fold after 15 min of exposure to the MIC of chlorhexidine gluconate were those encoding VanA-type vancomycin resistance (
vanHAX
) and those associated with reduced daptomycin susceptibility (
liaXYZ
). We confirmed that
vanA
upregulation was not strain or species specific by querying other VanA-type VRE. VanB-type genes were not induced. The
vanH
promoter was found to be responsive to subinhibitory chlorhexidine gluconate in VREfm, as was production of the VanX protein. Using
vanH
reporter experiments with
Bacillus subtilis
and deletion analysis in VREfm, we found that this phenomenon is VanR dependent. Deletion of
vanR
did not result in increased chlorhexidine susceptibility, demonstrating that
vanHAX
induction is not protective against chlorhexidine. As expected, VanA-type VRE is more susceptible to ceftriaxone in the presence of sub-MIC chlorhexidine. Unexpectedly, VREfm is also more susceptible to vancomycin in the presence of subinhibitory chlorhexidine, suggesting that chlorhexidine-induced gene expression changes lead to additional alterations in cell wall synthesis. We conclude that chlorhexidine induces expression of VanA-type vancomycin resistance genes and genes associated with daptomycin nonsusceptibility. Overall, our results indicate that the impacts of subinhibitory chlorhexidine exposure on hospital-associated pathogens should be further investigated in laboratory studies.
Activities of Murine Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes Provide Immune Correlates That Predict Francisella tularensis Vaccine Efficacy
Authors: De Pascalis Roberto , Mittereder Lara , Kennett Nikki J. , Elkins Karen L.
Published: January 2016

We previously identified potential correlates of vaccine-induced protection against
Francisella tularensis
using murine splenocytes and further demonstrated that the relative levels of gene expression varied significantly between tissues. In contrast to splenocytes, peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) represent a means to bridge vaccine efficacy in animal models to that in humans. Here we take advantage of this easily accessible source of immune cells to investigate cell-mediated immune responses against tularemia, whose sporadic incidence makes clinical trials of vaccines difficult. Using PBLs from mice vaccinated with
F. tularensis
Live Vaccine Strain (LVS) and related attenuated strains, we combined the control of
in vitro
Francisella
replication within macrophages with gene expression analyses. The
in vitro
functions of PBLs, particularly the control of intramacrophage LVS replication, reflected the hierarchy of
in vivo
protection conferred by LVS-derived vaccines. Moreover, several genes previously identified by the evaluation of splenocytes were also found to be differentially expressed in immune PBLs. In addition, more extensive screening identified additional potential correlates of protection. Finally, expression of selected genes in mouse PBLs obtained shortly after vaccination, without
ex vivo
restimulation, was different among vaccine groups, suggesting a potential tool to monitor efficacious vaccine-induced immune responses against
F. tularensis
. Our studies demonstrate that murine PBLs can be used productively to identify potential correlates of protection against
F. tularensis
and to expand and refine a comprehensive set of protective correlates.
Infant feeding and risk of developing celiac disease: a systematic review
Authors: Silano Marco , Agostoni Carlo , Sanz Yolanda , Guandalini Stefano
Published: January 2016

Objective

To review the evidence for the association of breast feeding, breastfeeding duration or the timing of gluten introduction and the later development of celiac disease (CD).

Design

Systematic review.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, via PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science, for studies published up to 31 August 2015 investigating the association of breastfeeding duration, breast feeding at the moment of gluten introduction or the timing of gluten introduction and the later development of CD. Prospective studies had to enrol infants/children at high risk of CD. For retrospective studies, participants had to be children or adults with CD. The paper quality was assessed by means of a GRADE score and the bias risk was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (for observational cohort studies) and Cochrane Collaboration's tool (for randomised trials).

Results

Out of 149 retrieved papers, 48 were considered in depth and 16 were included in this review (9 were prospective and 2 were interventional). We found that neither duration of breastfeeding nor breastfeeding at time of gluten introduction nor the delayed introduction of gluten during weaning were effective in preventing later development of CD.

Conclusions

Currently, there is no evidence on the optimal breastfeeding duration or the effects of avoiding early (<4 months of age) or late (≥6 or even at 12 months) gluten introduction in children at risk of CD. Accordingly, no specific general recommendations about gluten introduction or optimal breastfeeding duration can be presently provided on evidence-based criteria in order to prevent CD.
A cohort study of trends in the prevalence of pregestational diabetes in pregnancy recorded in UK general practice between 1995 and 2012
Authors: Coton Sonia J , Nazareth Irwin , Petersen Irene
Published: January 2016

Objective

To describe the characteristics of pregnant women with and without pregestational diabetes and to estimate the prevalence of pregestational diabetes in pregnant women recorded in a UK primary care database.

Methods

The data source for this study is The Health Improvement Network (THIN) primary care database. Pregnant women with and without diabetes aged 16 years and over were identified using diagnostic Read codes and prescriptions for antidiabetics from medical records. Data were examined on: age, body mass index (BMI), social deprivation, smoking, ethnicity and glycaemic control. The prevalence of pregestational diabetes was calculated by diabetes type and calendar year between 1995 and 2012.

Results

Data from 400 434 pregnancies suggests that women with pregestational diabetes were: older (median 29, 32 vs 29 years for type 1, type 2 and without diabetes, respectively), had higher BMI (median 25.0, 30.4 vs 23.9 k/m2for type 1, type 2 and without diabetes, respectively) and were registered with a general practice for longer than pregnant women without diabetes. The prevalence of type 1 diabetes in pregnancy increased from 1.56 to 4.09 per 1000 pregnancies between 1995 and 2015. For type 2 diabetes the increase was from 2.34 to 5.09 per 1000 pregnancies between 1995 and 2008 followed by a more rapid increase to 10.62 per 1000 pregnancies by 2012.

Conclusions

Pregnant women with pregestational diabetes were older, had higher BMI and were registered for longer than women without diabetes. The prevalence of type 1 and type 2 diabetes increased in pregnancy. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes rose more rapidly with a marked increase after 2008.
The Use of Tuned Mass Absorber to Prevent Overturning of the Rigid Block During Earthquake
Authors: Brzeski P. , Kapitaniak T. , Perlikowski P.
Published: January 2016

In the paper, we undertake the topic of stabilization of rigid blocks under seismic excitation. We investigate the influence of tuned mass absorbers (TMAs) on the dynamics of rigid block and check if this well known and widely used device can help to prevent overturning. We use fully nonstationary stochastic earthquake model of ground motion and consider excitation in horizontal direction only. We perform a series of numerical simulations and employ probability approach to analyze the influence of TMA parameters’ on the probability of rigid block’s overturning. The presented method can be used to optimize TMAs parameters to achieve the highest chance that the block will remain standing. We consider structures with symmetric and asymmetric mass distribution. Presented results show that it is possible to design and tune the stabilizing device in such a way that it is highly effective regardless of the rigid block asymmetry.
Analytical characterization of IgG–cTpp and IgG–Mn-cTpp conjugates
Authors: Konopińska Kamila , Pietrzak Mariusz , Mazur Radosław , Malinowska Elżbieta
Published: January 2016

Herein, the conjugation of carboxylated tetraphenylporphyrin or its derivative containing manganese cation and model protein — immunoglobulin G is presented. The obtained IgG–cTpp and IgG–Mn-cTpp conjugates were subsequently used for model immunoassays construction. The IgG–cTpp formation was confirmed using size-exclusion chromatography. Thanks to the unique properties of applied labels the assay analysis was carried out with both spectrophotometric and spectrofluorimetric detection. The assays were performed creating semi-quantitative detection system using 96-well plates. The incubation time, ensuring full saturation of the surface with secondary antibodies was also optimized. Moreover, in the case of IgG–Mn-cTpp conjugates we present the possibility of both direct and indirect determination of the label, the latter based on the catalytic activity of Mn-cTpp, which allows for amplification of the measured signal. We proved that both cTpp and Mn-cTpp may be successfully used for protein labeling and serve as universal tracers for various formats of affinity assays and sensors.
Phonetic analytics technology and big data
Authors: Shim J. P. , Koh J. , Fister S. , Seo H. Y.
Published: January 2016

Data from phone interactions can help address customers' complaints,
and
predict their future purchasing behavior.
Reversibility of High-Grade Atrioventricular Block with Revascularization in Coronary Artery Disease without Infarction: A Literature Review
Authors: Cardoso Rhanderson , Alfonso Carlos E. , Coffey James O.
Published: January 2016

Complete atrioventricular (AV) block is known to be reversible in some cases of acute inferior wall myocardial infarction (MI). The reversibility of high-grade AV block in non-MI coronary artery disease (CAD), however, is rarely described in the literature. Herein we perform a literature review to assess what is known about the reversibility of high-grade AV block after right coronary artery revascularization in CAD patients who present without an acute MI. To illustrate this phenomenon we describe a case of 2 : 1 AV block associated with unstable angina, in which revascularization resulted in immediate and durable restoration of 1 : 1 AV conduction, thereby obviating the need for permanent pacemaker implantation. The literature review suggests two possible explanations: a vagally mediated response or a mechanism dependent on conduction system ischemia. Due to the limited understanding of AV block reversibility following revascularization in non-acute MI presentations, it remains difficult to reliably predict which patients presenting with high-grade AV block in the absence of MI may have the potential to avoid permanent pacemaker implantation via coronary revascularization. We thus offer this review as a potential starting point for the approach to such patients.
In VitroStudy on Glucose Utilization Capacity of Bioactive Fractions ofHouttuynia cordatain Isolated Rat Hemidiaphragm and Its Major Phytoconstituent
Authors: Kumar Manish , Prasad Satyendra K. , Hemalatha Siva
Published: January 2016

Objective. The whole plant ofHouttuynia cordatahas been reported to have potent antihyperglycemic activity. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to investigate the glucose utilization capacity of bioactive fractions of ethanol extract ofHouttuynia cordata(HC) in isolated rat hemidiaphragm.Methods. All the fractions, that is, aqueous (AQ), hexane (HEX), chloroform (CHL), and ethyl acetate (EA), obtained from ethanol extract ofH. cordatawere subjected to phytochemical standardization use in quercetin as a marker with the help of HPTLC. Further, glucose utilization capacity by rat hemidiaphragm was evaluated in 12 different sets ofin vitroexperiments. In the study, different fractions fromH. cordataas mentioned above were evaluated, where insulin was used as standard and quercetin as a biological standard.Results. Among all the tested fractions, AQ and EA significantly increased glucose uptake by isolated rat hemidiaphragm compared to negative control. Moreover, AQ fractions enhanced the uptake of glucose significantly (p<0.05) and was found to be more effective than insulin.Conclusions. The augmentation in glucose uptake by hemidiaphragm in presence of AQ and EA fractions may be attributed to the presence of quercetin, which was found to be 7.1 and 3.2% w/w, respectively, in both the fractions.
Postoperative Morbidity and Mortality of Perforated Peptic Ulcer: Retrospective Cohort Study of Risk Factors among Black Africans in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Gona Soro Kountele , Alassan Mahassadi Kouamé , Marcellin Koffi Gnangoran , Henriette Kissi Ya , Adama Coulibaly , Toussaint Assohoun , Manuela Ehua Adjoba , Sylvain Seu Gagon , Anthony Afum-Adjei Awuah , Francis Ehua Somian
Published: January 2016

Introduction. Surgical treatment of perforated peptic ulcer (PPU) is a challenge for surgeons in Africa.Aim. To determine risk factors of postoperative complications or mortality among black Ivoirian patients with PPU.Methods. All 161 patients (median age = 34 years, 90.7 male) operated on for PPU in the visceral and general surgery unit were enrolled in a retrospective cohort study. Variables were studied with Kaplan Meier and Cox proportional hazard models.Results. Among 161 patients operated on for PPU, 36 (27.5%) experienced complications and 31 (19.3%) died. Follow-up results were the incidence of complications and mortality of 6.4 (95% CI: 4.9–8.0) per 100 person-days and 3.0 (95% CI: 1.9–4.0) per 100 person-days for incidence of mortality. In multivariate analysis, risk factors of postoperative complications or mortality were comorbidities (HR = 2.1,P=0.03), tachycardia (pulse rate > 100/minutes) (HR = 2.4,P=0.02), purulent intra-abdominal fluid collection (HR = 2.1,P=0.04), hyponatremia (median value ≤ 134 mEq/L) (HR = 2.3,P=0.01), delayed time of hospital admission > 72 hours (HR = 2.6,P<0.0001), and delayed time of surgical intervention between 24 and 48 hours (HR = 3.8,P<0.0001).Conclusion. The delayed hospital admission or surgical intervention and hyponatremia may be considered as additional risk of postoperative complications or mortality in Black African patients with PPU.
Influence of Synthesis Route on the Radiation Sensing Properties of ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: Silva R. A. , Orlandi M. O.
Published: January 2016

ZnO nanostructures were synthesized using two different routes and the light sensor response of structures was studied. The synthesis by carbothermal reduction resulted in ZnO tetrapods while the synthesis by microwave assisted hydrothermal method produced multipoint stars structures. Characterization by scanning and transmission electron microscopy confirmed that both structures consist of one-dimensional crystals with a hexagonal cross section and[001]growth direction. Under a simulated solar radiation spectrum, it was observed that tetrapods display a light sensor response of approximately 5000. For the multipoint stars, a maximum in the sensor signal value of 3400 was achieved, which also represents a substantial variation in the conductivity of the material. A model based on the surface oxygen presence is proposed to explain the observed results.
A Bioactivity‐Based Method for Screening, Identification of Lipase Inhibitors, and Clarifying the Effects of Processing Time on Lipase Inhibitory Activity of Polygonum Multiflorum
Authors: Chang Yan-xu , Ge Ai-hua , Jiang Yan , Teye Azietaku John , Li Jin , Gao Xiu-mei
Published: January 2016

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been used for the treatment of many complex diseases. However, the bioactive components are always undefined. In this study, a bioactivity‐based method was developed and validated to screen lipase inhibitors and evaluate the effects of processing on the lipase inhibitory activity of TCM by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and fraction collector (UHPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS‐FC). The results showed that both Polygonum multiflorum and processed P. multiflorum extracts had inhibitory effect against lipase with IC50 values of 38.84 μg/mL and 190.6 μg/mL, respectively. Stilbenes, phenolic acid, flavonoids, and anthraquinones were considered to be the potential lipase inhibitors. Eleven potential lipase inhibitors were simultaneously determined by UHPLC. Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed in exploring the effects of processing time on lipase inhibitory activity of P. multiflorum. Compared with conventional methods, a bioactivity‐based method could quantitatively analyze lipase inhibitory activity of individual constituent and provide the total lipase inhibitory activity of the samples. The results demonstrated that the activity integrated UHPLC/Q‐TOF‐MS‐FC method was an effective and powerful tool for screening and identifying lipase inhibitors from traditional Chinese medicines.
Performance Analysis of Novel Overload Control with Threshold Mechanism
Authors: Choi Doo Il , Lim Dae-Eun
Published: January 2016

We propose a novel overload control method with hysteresis property; that is, we analyze theM/G/1/Kqueueing system where the service and arrival rates are varied depending on the queue-length. We use two threshold values:L1(≤L2)andL2(≤K). When the queue-length increases by an amount betweenL1andL2, we apply one of the following two strategies to reduce the queue-length, either we decrease the mean service time or we decrease the arrival rate. If the queue-length exceedsL2with one strategy, we apply the other; thus, there are two models that depend on the method that was applied first. We derive the queue-length distribution at departure and at arbitrary epochs using the embedded Markov chain method and the supplementary variable method. We investigate performance measures including the loss probability and mean waiting time using various numerical examples.
First Record ofAnisakis simplexThird-Stage Larvae (Nematoda, Anisakidae) in European HakeMerluccius merluccius lessepsianusin Egyptian Water
Authors: Abou-Rahma Yasmin , Abdel-Gaber Rewaida , Kamal Ahmed Amira
Published: January 2016

The prevalence of infection and the identification of anisakid larvae in European hakeMerluccius merluccius lessepsianusfrom Hurghada City, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt, were investigated. Fish samples were collected during the period of February and November 2014. Twenty-two (36.66%) out of sixty examined fish specimens were found to be naturally infected withAnisakistype I larvae mostly found as encapsulated larvae in visceral organs. There was a positive relationship between host length/weight and prevalence of infection. Based on morphological, morphometric, and molecular analyses, these nematodes were identified as third-stage larvae ofAnisakis simplex. The present study was considered as the first report of anisakid larvae from European hake in the Egyptian water.
Racial Differences in the Association Between Preoperative Serum Cholesterol and Prostate Cancer Recurrence: Results from the SEARCH Database
Authors: Allott Emma H. , Howard Lauren E. , Aronson William J. , Terris Martha K. , Kane Christopher J. , Amling Christopher L. , Cooperberg Matthew R. , Freedland Stephen J.
Published: January 2016

Background: Black men are disproportionately affected by both cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer. Epidemiologic evidence linking dyslipidemia, an established cardiovascular risk factor, and prostate cancer progression is mixed. As existing studies were conducted in predominantly non-black populations, research on black men is lacking.

Methods: We identified 628 black and 1,020 non-black men who underwent radical prostatectomy and never used statins before surgery in the Shared Equal Access Regional Cancer Hospital (SEARCH) database. Median follow-up was 2.9 years. The impact of preoperative hypercholesterolemia on risk of biochemical recurrence was examined using multivariable, race-stratified proportional hazards. In secondary analysis, we examined associations with low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides, overall and among men with dyslipidemia.

Results: High cholesterol was associated with increased risk of recurrence in black [HRper10 mg/dL 1.06; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02–1.11] but not non-black men (HRper10 mg/dL 0.99; 95% CI, 0.95–1.03; Pinteraction = 0.011). Elevated triglycerides were associated with increased risk in both black and non-black men (HRper10 mg/dL 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00–1.03 and 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00–1.02, respectively; Pinteraction = 0.458). There were no significant associations between LDL or HDL and recurrence risk in either race. Associations with cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides were similar among men with dyslipidemia, but low HDL was associated with increased risk of recurrence in black, but not non-black men with dyslipidemia (Pinteraction = 0.047).

Conclusion: Elevated cholesterol was a risk factor for recurrence in black but not non-black men, whereas high triglycerides were associated with increased risk regardless of race.

Impact: Significantly contrasting associations by race may provide insight into prostate cancer racial disparities. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(3); 547–54. ©2016 AACR.
Circulating 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Prostate Cancer Survival
Authors: Mondul Alison M. , Weinstein Stephanie J. , Moy Kristin A. , Männistö Satu , Albanes Demetrius
Published: January 2016

Background: Recent epidemiologic evidence suggests that higher circulating vitamin D does not protect against prostate cancer and, in fact, may increase the risk of developing this malignancy. However, few studies have examined the most clinically relevant outcome, prostate cancer mortality.

Methods: We examined prediagnostic serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25(OH)D) and prostate cancer survival in a cohort of 1,000 cases in the Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention (ATBC) Study. During 23 years of follow-up, 363 men died from their disease. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of death from prostate cancer by season-specific quintile of 25(OH)D. Multivariable models were adjusted for age, physical activity, cigarettes per day, and family history of prostate cancer.

Results: Men with higher serum 25(OH)D were less likely to die from their prostate cancer (Q5 vs. Q1 HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.52–0.99; Ptrend = 0.006). This finding was independent of stage or grade at diagnosis and appeared restricted to men who survived longer (survived <3.3 years: Q5 vs. Q1 HR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.61–1.50; Ptrend, 0.53; survived ≥3.3 years: Q5 vs. Q1 HR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.34–0.85; Ptrend, 0.0002).

Conclusions: In this population of men diagnosed with prostate cancer, higher serum 25(OH)D years prior to diagnosis was associated with longer prostate cancer survival.

Impact: In light of inconsistent evidence regarding the role of vitamin D in the development of prostate cancer, the present findings regarding the most clinically relevant prostate cancer outcome, disease-specific mortality, could have important public health implications. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(4); 665–9. ©2016 AACR.
Otologic and Rhinologic Manifestations of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Authors: Nakamaru Yuji , Takagi Dai , Suzuki Masanobu , Homma Aya , Morita Shinya , Homma Akihiro , Fukuda Satoshi
Published: January 2016

Background: Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a systemic autoimmune disease that manifests as asthma, recurrent sinusitis and peripheral eosinophilia. In this study, we investigated the clinical features of the ear and nasal manifestations of EGPA in comparison with those of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). Materials and Methods: Twenty-one patients diagnosed with EGPA were studied. The frequency of otologic manifestations, the degree of hearing loss and the frequency of nasal symptoms were assessed. The onset of ear symptoms, sinusitis and asthma in patients with EGPA were also examined. Results: Eleven patients (52.4%) with EGPA demonstrated otologic symptoms. The EGPA patients commonly presented mild-to-moderate mixed or sensorineural hearing loss. The pattern of hearing loss was mainly flat, and all but 1 patient achieved complete remission from their hearing impairments. Eighteen patients (85.7%) with EGPA demonstrated nasal symptoms. Patients with EGPA showed a significantly higher incidence of nasal polyps than did those with GPA. The median Lund and Mackey scoring system score was 13.7 for patients with EGPA, and ethmoid sinus shadows were more severe than those of the maxillary sinus. Most ear symptoms associated with EGPA were observed after definitive diagnosis, although sinusitis and asthma tended to manifest themselves before diagnosis. There were significant differences between the onset of ear symptoms and those of asthma and sinusitis. Conclusion: As over 80% of patients with EGPA had nasal symptoms and over half had ear symptoms, otolaryngologists should be aware of this disease. Recognition of the characteristic ear and nasal symptoms are thought to be particularly important to obtain an early diagnosis of EGPA.
Unusual Dermoscopic Patterns of Seborrheic Keratosis
Authors: Squillace Lorenzo , Cappello Milena , Longo Caterina , Moscarella Elvira , Alfano Roberto , Argenziano Giuseppe
Published: January 2016

Background: Seborrheic keratoses (SKs) may sometimes mimic benign and malignant skin tumors, and a biopsy can be necessary in order to rule out malignancy. Methods: From the database of our pigmented lesion clinic, we evaluated the dermoscopic features of difficult-to-diagnose SKs that were biopsied between January 2010 and December 2014. Results: SKs represented 3.8% of all excised lesions (161/ 4,182). Specifically, 91 (56.5%) were excised to rule out melanoma, 63 (39.1%) to rule out squamous cell carcinoma and 7 (4.4%) to rule out basal cell carcinoma. The following 10 global dermoscopic patterns were identified: multicomponent (32; 19.9%); reticular (24; 14.9%), characterized by an irregular pigment network; bowenoid (21; 13.0%); hairpin (19; 11.8%); keratoacanthoma-like (16; 9.9%); blue-nevus-like (15; 9.3%); lichenoid (6; 3.7%); hyperkeratotic (6; 3.7%); clonal (5; 3.1%); spitzoid (5; 3.1%). Furthermore, 12 SKs (7.5%) were not included in any of such patterns (not classified). Conclusion: Our results are in line with previous studies highlighting the dermoscopic variability of SKs. Although excised SKs may be classified into 1 of 10 repetitive dermoscopic patterns, a biopsy remains mandatory for those that cannot be clearly differentiated from common skin malignancies.
Alterations in Monocyte Phenotypes and Functions after a Hip Fracture in Elderly Individuals: A 6-Month Longitudinal Study
Authors: Baëhl Sarra , Garneau Hugo , Lorrain Dominique , Viens Isabelle , Svotelis Amy , Lord Janet M. , Cabana François , Larbi Anis , Dupuis Gilles , Fülöp Tamàs
Published: January 2016

Background: Healthy elderly individuals are particularly prone to catastrophic events at any moment of their lives. One stressful event for individuals aged 65 and older is a fall that results in a fracture of the hip (HF). HF causes a state of inflammation that may affect immune responses. In this connection, we have reported that HF induced alterations in neutrophil functions. Objective: To assess the impact of HF on classical (cM), intermediate (iM) and non-classical (ncM) monocyte subsets. Methods: Distribution, functions (chemotaxis, phagocytosis, superoxide production and cytokine production), phenotype and activation (NF-κB and PI3K) were evaluated in monocyte subsets before surgery and 6 weeks and 6 months after the event. Results: The distribution of cM and ncM was unchanged, but iM transiently increased before surgery. Sustained increases (iM response to CCL2 and CX3CL1) and decreases (cM and ncM response to CCL2) in chemotaxis were observed. Phagocytosis and superoxide production were impaired in cM but not in iM or ncM. Sustained expression of HLA-DR occurred in cM but not in iM and ncM. Sustained decreased expression of CD11b occurred only in ncM. Sustained decreases (cM and ncM) and increases (iM) in CCR2 expression were observed. An elevated expression of CX3CR1 was found only in iM. cM produced elevated quantities of TNFα. There was a transient oxidative burst of production before surgery in iM and a sustained decrease in ncM. IL-10 production was severely impaired in cM and decreased in iM prior to surgery. Sustained activation (cM), inhibition (ncM) and transient activation (iM) of NF-κB were observed. Activation of PI3K was severely impaired in cM and ncM but was sustained in iM. Conclusion: HF had more impact on cM and ncM functions than on iM. HF triggered a switch in cM functions from phagocytic to inflammatory elevated TNFα-producing cells. These changes may impact clinical outcomes of HF with respect to inflammation, opportunistic infections and physical recovery.
Structural and geophysical signature of the Northern Portion (Ceará-Piauí border) of the Transbrasiliano Lineament: reactivation in the Parnaíba Basin
Authors: Cacama Moisés Samuel João Bota , Sá Emanuel Ferraz Jardim de , Silva Fernando César Alves da , Lins Fernando Antônio Pessoa Lira
Published: January 2016

O Lineamento Transbrasiliano é uma importante zona de cisalhamento com direção NE-SW, relacionada à orogênese Brasiliana e que evoluiu em estágios de alta até baixa temperatura. No presente trabalho, investigou-se a assinatura estrutural e geofísica da porção norte do Lineamento Transbrasiliano (fronteira Ceará-Piauí). Na literatura é comum a referência à reativação fanerozoica dessa estrutura, a qual teria originado diversos grabens tardi-brasilianos precedentes à sinéclise paleozoica do Parnaíba, a exemplo do Graben de Jaibaras. Em etapas evolutivas mais jovens, as falhas que seccionam as unidades da Bacia do Parnaíba, ao longo de toda a extensão do Lineamento Transbrasiliano, exprimem a sua reativação em eventos sucessivos. O mapa magnético da região exibe anomalias com direção NE, interpretadas como a assinatura do Lineamento Transbrasiliano (e das estruturas brasilianas da Província Borborema) na sua expressão de alta temperatura. O Graben de Jaibaras é marcado por uma faixa anômala retilínea com alta suscetibilidade magnética, aparentemente sem continuidade expressiva no substrato da Bacia do Parnaíba. As análises geométrica e cinemática das estruturas da área, utilizando dados de sensor remoto e de campo, permitiram caracterizar quatro fases de deformação. A fase deformacional Dn ocorre de modo exclusivo no Graben de Jaibaras (o que permite inferir sua idade, ediacarana-cambriana), com desenvolvimento de estruturas de temperatura mais elevada, comparativamente aos eventos subsequentes. As fases deformacionais D1 , D2 e D3 ocorrem afetando tanto o Graben de Jaibaras como as sequências paleozoicas da borda NE da Bacia do Parnaíba, com geração de estruturas em temperatura baixa, essencialmente rúpteis/cataclásticas, que são tentativamente correlacionadas com os estágios de abertura do Atlântico ou mesmo com eventos orogênicos distais de idade Paleozoica
Capacidades das instituições municipais de Proteção e Defesa Civil no Brasil: desafios e perspectivas
Authors: Londe Luciana De Resende , Soriano Erico , Coutinho Marcos Pellegrini
Published: January 2016

<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-ansi-language: PT-BR; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Há vários desafios para a atuação dos órgãos de Proteção e Defesa Civil no Brasil. Procuramos traçar um panorama destes órgãos através de questionários direcionados aos seus agentes, e, também, identificar perspectivas de ações baseadas na legislação e nas diretrizes de gestão de risco de desastres no país. Verificamos que os agentes entendem ações relacionadas aos desastres socioambientais como sua principal atribuição, priorizando ações preventivas. Dificuldades comumente verificadas, como falta de equipamentos, instalações físicas precárias e baixa remuneração, não foram apontadas na pesquisa como os principais obstáculos para a realização dos trabalhos. Destaca-se, entretanto, a falta de apoio institucional, mencionada em 23,2% das respostas. O maior e mais importante desafio, entretanto, é a interação com a comunidade, crucial para o bom funcionamento da Defesa Civil.
Renal Resistive Index Predicts Postoperative Blood Pressure Outcome in Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Iwakura Yoshitsugu , Ito Sadayoshi , Morimoto Ryo , Kudo Masataka , Ono Yoshikiyo , Nezu Masahiro , Takase Kei , Seiji Kazumasa , Ishidoya Shigeto , Arai Yoichi , Funamizu Yasuharu , Miki Takashi , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Sasano Hironobu , Satoh Fumitoshi
Published: January 2016

The renal resistive index (RI) calculated by Doppler ultrasonography has been reported to be correlated with renal structural changes and outcomes in patients with essential hypertension or renal disease. However, little is known about this index in primary aldosteronism. In this prospective study, we examined the utility of this index to predict blood pressure (BP) outcome after adrenalectomy in patients with primary aldosteronism. We studied 94 patients with histopathologically proven aldosteronoma who underwent surgery. Parameters on renal function, including renal flow indices, were examined and followed up for 12 months postoperatively. The renal RI of the main, hilum, and interlobar arteries was significantly higher in patients with aldosteronoma compared with 100 control patients. BP, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and urinary albumin excretion significantly decreased after adrenalectomy. The resistive indices of all compartment arteries were significantly reduced 1 month after adrenalectomy and remained stable for 12 months. Patients whose interlobar RI was in the highest tertile at baseline had higher systolic BP after adrenalectomy than those whose RI was in the lowest tertile. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the RI of the interlobar and hilum arteries could be an independent predictive marker for intractable hypertension (systolic BP ≥140 mm Hg, increased BP, taking ≥3 antihypertensive agents, or increased number of agents) even after adrenalectomy. Therefore, in patients with aldosteronoma, the renal RI indicates partially reversible renal hemodynamics and renal structural damages that would influence postoperative BP outcome.
Pretreatment of Cardiac Stem Cells With Exosomes Derived From Mesenchymal Stem Cells Enhances Myocardial Repair
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Yang Junjie , Yan Weiya , Li Yangxin , Shen Zhenya , Asahara Takayuki
Published: January 2016

Background

Exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells (
MSC
s) were proved to boost cell proliferation and angiogenic potency. We explored whether cardiac stem cells (CSCs) preconditioned with
MSC
exosomes could survive and function better in a myocardial infarction model.

Methods and Results

DiI‐labeled exosomes were internalized with
CSC
s. They stimulated proliferation, migration, and angiotube formation of
CSC
s in a dose‐dependent manner. In a rat myocardial infarction model,
MSC
exosome–preconditioned
CSC
s had significantly better survival, enhanced capillary density, reduced cardiac fibrosis, and restored long‐term cardiac function. Micro
RNA
profiling analysis revealed that a set of micro
RNA
s were significantly changed in
CSC
s after
MSC
exosome treatment.

Conclusions

Pretreatment of CSCs with
MSC
exosomes provided a promising strategy to improve survival and angiogenic potency of CSCs.
The Gamification of Mobile Communication among Young Smartphone Users in Seoul
Authors: Yoon Kyong , Jin Dal Yong
Published: January 2016

Drawing on the empirical findings, the present study discusses how mobile media and gaming practices are integrated with young people’s everyday lives in Seoul, Korea. In particular, the present study aims to critically examine mobile gaming as a social practice, by adopting the notion of “gamification”. The study has found that users coped with urban everyday life by appropriating mobile apps and thus engaging with the gamification of mobile communication. Various mobile games have become popular add-ons on smartphones and offered casual involvement in gaming in daily moments such as commuting, waiting, and eating times. Gamified communication practices may imply that smartphone-mediated communication redefines our world as the gameful world while urban space and agency constantly engage with gameplay. However, the seemingly gameful world that may empower certain casual gamers may conceal the hegemonic process in which mobile gamers are subject to existing power relations.
Cyber youth work in Hong Kong: Specific and yet the same
Authors: Leung Zeno CS , Wong Stella SK , Lit Siu-wai , Chan Charlie , Cheung Fabia , Wong Pui-ling
Published: January 2016

Social media does not just lead to new ways of social participation; it creates new opportunities for serving difficult-to-reach groups in the community. This study examined the experiences and processes of a pioneering cyber youth work project working with young people involved in drug use and the sex trade in Hong Kong. A thematic analysis of online communication records and interviews of social workers and clients was conducted to determine the relating factors concerned, namely, ‘social presence’, ‘autonomy and ‘privacy’, ‘use of text and media’, and ‘time dimension’. The results suggest practice insights for youth workers.