bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An in-tether sulfilimine chiral center induces β-turn conformation in short peptides
Authors: Lin Huacan , Jiang Yixiang , Hu Kuan , Zhang Qingzhou , He Chuanxin , Wang Tao , Li Zigang
Published: October 2016

A novel and effective β-turn-stabilizing strategy is demonstrated by introducing a R configuration of the SNTs chiral center via chloramine-T oxidation.
A Rh(ii)-catalyzed three-component reaction of 3-diazooxindoles with N,N-disubstituted anilines and glyoxylates for the synthesis of 3-aryl-3-substituted oxindoles
Authors: Jia Shi-Kun , Song Long-Long , Lei Yu-Bing , Gopi Krishna Reddy A. , Xing Dong , Hu Wen-Hao
Published: October 2016

A Rh2(OAc)4 catalyzed three-component reaction via aromatic C–H bond functionalization is developed for the synthesis of 3-aryl-3-substituted oxindole derivatives.
An alternative method to estimate the bulk backbiting rate coefficient in acrylate radical polymerization
Authors: Marien Yoshi W. , Van Steenberge Paul H. M. , Kockler Katrin B. , Barner-Kowollik Christopher , Reyniers Marie-Françoise , D'hooge Dagmar R. , Marin Guy B.
Published: October 2016

An alternative method to estimate the backbiting rate coefficient in acrylate polymerization is presented and successfully applied to experimental data.
Tuning of electrical and optical properties of polyaniline incorporated functional paper for flexible circuits through oxidative chemical polymerization
Authors: Deb Krishna , Bera Arun , Saha Biswajit
Published: October 2016

An organic semiconductor polyaniline based material with outstanding physical properties was prepared on a flexible paper substrate.
Novel application of talc nanoparticles as collector in flotation
Authors: Hajati A. , Shafaei S. Z. , Noaparast M. , Farrokhpay S. , Aslani S.
Published: October 2016

The objective of this work is to study the application of natural hydrophobic talc nanoparticle as a new class of solid flotation collector.
Stable green phosphorescence organic light-emitting diodes with low efficiency roll-off using a novel bipolar thermally activated delayed fluorescence material as host
Authors: Guo Kunping , Wang Hedan , Wang Zixing , Si Changfeng , Peng Cuiyun , Chen Guo , Zhang Jianhua , Wang Gaofeng , Wei Bin
Published: October 2016

A bipolar host with TADF properties is realized, endowing green PhOLEDs with a twentyfold lifetime improvement.
Hollow mesoporous carbon nanocarriers for vancomycin delivery: understanding the structure–release relationship for prolonged antibacterial performance
Authors: Ahmad Nor Yusilawati , Zhang Hongwei , Purwajanti Swasmi , Song Hao , Meka Anand Kumar , Wang Yue , Mitter Neena , Mahony Donna , Yu Chengzhong
Published: October 2016

Mesoporous hollow carbon nanospheres with controllable nanostructures achieved long-term bactericidal activity.
Work-Related Determinants of Voice Complaints Among School Workers: An Eleven-Month Follow-Up Study
Authors: Cutiva Lady Catherine Cantor , Burdorf Alex
Published: October 2016

Purpose

We determined the natural course of voice complaints among school workers and established the risk factors associated with incidence and chronic voice complaints.

Method

We conducted a longitudinal study with an 11-month follow-up among 682 school workers. Participants filled out a questionnaire on individual and work-related conditions and the nature and severity of voice complaints. All participants who provided baseline data were contacted in the 11-month follow-up, if they were still working in the school. Short-term environmental measurements of physical work-related factors were conducted during visits at the workplaces. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine associations between work-related factors and voice complaints.

Results

We found a high occurrence of chronic voice complaints, a low recovery of 22%, and an annual incidence of 44%. A self-reported high noise level at the workplace was associated with the incidence of voice complaints (odds ratio = 2.45). Self-reported poor acoustics in the classroom was associated with chronic voice complaints (odds ratio = 1.76).

Conclusions

This unique longitudinal study among school workers presented some indications that self-reported high noise levels may contribute to the incidence of voice complaints, whereas self-reported poor acoustic conditions may be an important associated factor of chronic voice complaints.
Crocus sativus L. versus Citalopram in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder with Anxious Distress: A Double-Blind, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Ghajar A. , Neishabouri S. , Velayati N. , Jahangard L. , Matinnia N. , Haghighi M. , Ghaleiha A. , Afarideh M. , Salimi S. , Meysamie A. , Akhondzadeh S.
Published: October 2016

Introduction: Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has demonstrated antidepressant effects in clinical studies and extensive anxiolytic effects in experimental animal models.

Methods: 66 patients with major depressive disorder accompanied by anxious distress were randomly assigned to receive either saffron (30 mg/day) or citalopram (40 mg/day) for 6 weeks. Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A) were used to assess treatment effect during the trial.

Results: 60 participants finished the study. Patients who received either saffron or citalopram showed significant improvement in scores of the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (P-value<0.001 in both groups) and Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (P-value<0.001 in both groups). Comparison of score changes between the 2 trial arms showed no significant difference (P-value=0.984). Frequency of side effects was not significantly different between the 2 groups.

Discussion: The present study indicates saffron as a potential efficacious and tolerable treatment for major depressive disorder with anxious distress.
Microstrain-level measurement of third-order elastic constants applying dynamic acousto-elastic testing
Authors: Renaud Guillaume , Talmant Maryline , Marrelec Guillaume
Published: October 2016

The nonlinear elasticity of solids at the microstrain level has been recently studied by applying dynamic acousto-elastic testing. It is the analog of conventional quasi-static acousto-elastic experiments but the strain-dependence (or stress-dependence) of ultrasonic wave-speed is measured with an applied strain ranging from 10−7 to 10−5 and produced by a stationary elastic wave. In conventional quasi-static acousto-elastic experiments, the strain is applied in a quasi-static manner; it exceeds 10−4 and can reach 10−2. In this work, we apply dynamic acousto-elastic testing to measure the third-order elastic constants of two isotropic materials: polymethyl methacrylate and dry Berea sandstone. The peak amplitude of the dynamic applied strain is 8 × 10−6. The method is shown to be particularly suitable for materials exhibiting large elastic nonlinearity like sandstones, since the measurement is performed in the domain of validity of the third-order hyperelastic model. In contrast, conventional quasi-static acousto-elastic experiments in such materials are often performed outside the domain of validity of the third-order hyperelastic model and the stress-dependence of the ultrasonic wave-speed must be extrapolated at zero stress, leading to approximate values of the third-order elastic constants. The uncertainty of the evaluation of the third-order elastic constants is assessed by repeating multiple times the measurements and with Monte-Carlo simulations. The obtained values of the Murnaghan third-order elastic constants are l = −73 GPa ± 9%, m = −34 GPa ± 9%, and n = −61 GPa ± 10% for polymethyl methacrylate, and l = −17 000 GPa ± 20%, m = −11 000 GPa ± 10%, and n = −30 000 GPa ± 20% for dry Berea sandstone.
Pseudo-3D PIC modeling of drift-induced spatial inhomogeneities in planar magnetron plasmas
Authors: Revel A. , Minea T. , Tsikata S.
Published: October 2016

A pseudo-3D modeling approach, based on a particle-in-cell (PIC)-Monte Carlo collisions algorithm, has been developed for the study of large- and short-scale organization of the plasma in a planar magnetron. This extension of conventional PIC modeling permits the observation of spontaneous organization of the magnetron plasma, under the influence of crossed electric and magnetic fields, into the well-known, large-scale regions of enhanced ionization and density known as spokes. The nature of complex three-dimensional electron trajectories around such structures, and non-uniform ionization within them, is revealed. This modeling provides direct numerical evidence for the existence of high-amplitude internal spoke electric fields, proposed in earlier works. A 3D phenomenological model, consistent with numerical results, is proposed. Electron density fluctuations in the megahertz range, with characteristics similar to the electron cyclotron drift instability experimentally identified in a recent Letter, are also found.
The impacts of dietary Nigella sativa meal and Avizyme on growth, nutrient digestibility and blood metabolites of meat-type quail
Authors: El-Hack M. E. Abd , Attia A. I. , Arif M. , Soomro R. N. , Arain M. A.
Published: October 2016

The present study was performed to evaluate the effect of varying proportion of Nigella sativa meal (NSM) in the diets with or without Avizyme supplementation on growing Japanese quail performance. A 4 × 2 factorial experiment was conducted including four levels of NSM (0%, 10%, 15% and 20% of the diet) and two levels of dietary Avizyme supplementation (0 or 0.5 g/kg diet) through the growing period (1–6 weeks of age). A total number of 600 unsexed 1-week-old Japanese quail chicks were randomly distributed into eight treatment groups. The effects of NSM inclusion levels were highly significant (P < 0.01) on the values of live bodyweight, daily bodyweight gain and daily feed intake at all periods studied. The incorporation of 10% NSM of the diet recorded the best values of live bodyweight and daily bodyweight gain compared with the Control and other NSM levels. Quail fed diets contained 10% or 15% NSM had higher (P < 0.01) daily feed intake than those in the Control, but feed conversion ratio was not statistically affected at all studied ages. All carcass traits studied were significantly (P < 0.01) affected by feeding the NSM diet. The digestion coefficients of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, ether extract and nitrogen-free extract were significantly (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05) increased in chicks fed diets containing 10% NSM as compared with the Control. Quail fed diets including 10% or 15% NSM had increased serum concentrations of total protein, albumin and a higher A : G ratio. All serum lipid constituents except high density lipoprotein were at lower (P < 0.01) concentrations in blood serum of quail fed diets containing NSM. Using NSM at level of 20% of the diet had a negative impact on growth, carcass characteristics, and nutrient digestibility. Neither Avizyme supplementation alone nor the interaction between NSM and Avizyme had any statistically impact on all studied parameters. It can be concluded that NSM could be included in growing quail diets up to 15% without any Avizyme supplementation to support growth performance and feed utilisation, however higher NSM levels negatively affected performance, carcass traits and nutrient digestibility.
Body size at sexual maturity in the eteline snappers Etelis carbunculus and Pristipomoides sieboldii: subregional comparisons between the main and north-western Hawaiian Islands
Authors: DeMartini Edward E.
Published: October 2016

New estimates of median body length at sexual maturity (L50) are presented for females of ehu (Etelis carbunculus) and kalekale (Pristipomoides sieboldii) in the main Hawaiian Islands (MHI); these are compared with published estimates for females of each species in the north-western Hawaiian Islands (NWHI). This case study illustrates the general importance of identifying regional and subregional variations in species’ life histories when estimating parameters for input to stock assessments. L50 values differed somewhat between the two species, but greatly between the MHI and NWHI for each species. Size-standardised ovary weights were greater in the NWHI v. MHI for all-sized fish of both species and nominally greater at larger body sizes among the mature females of both species in the MHI compared with the NWHI. L50 was smaller in the MHI compared with NWHI for females of both species. The mean (±s.e.m.) L50 for female ehu was 23.4±0.3- v. 27.2±1.0-cm fork length (FL) in the MHI v. NWHI respectively. For female kalekale, the respective estimates were 23.8±0.3 and 28.6±0.7cm FL. Possible determinants of these subregional geographic variations in L50, including latitude, productivity and history of extraction by Hawaiian bottomfish fisheries, are discussed.
Estimates of the magnitudes of major marine mass extinctions in earth history
Authors: Stanley Steven M.
Published: October 2016

Significance

This paper shows that background extinction definitely preceded mass extinctions; introduces a mathematical method for estimating the amount of this background extinction and, by subtracting it from total extinction, correcting estimates of losses in mass extinctions; presents a method for estimating the amount of erroneous backward smearing of extinctions from mass extinction intervals; and introduces a method for calculating species losses in a mass extinction that takes into account clustering of losses. It concludes that the great terminal Permian crisis eliminated only about 81% of marine species, not the frequently quoted 90–96%. Life did not almost disappear at the end of the Permian, as has often been asserted.
Kinetics comparison between plasma oxynitriding and plasma nitriding and the application for AISI 1045 steel
Authors: Miao B. , Li J. C. , Liu H. , Wei W. , Hu J.
Published: October 2016

Plasma oxynitriding (PON) and plasma nitriding (PN) were carried out for AISI 1045 steel, and kinetics of the two cases were analysed and compared. Kinetics equations of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] were obtained for PON and PN, respectively, which illustrates that much higher nitrogen diffusion coefficient and much lower activation energy for PON. Meanwhile, the reliability of obtained kinetics equations were verified by checking the agreement between the calculated compound layer thickness and those measured from the cross-sectional microstructures. The results confirmed the practicability of the kinetics equations.
Bubble growth from clustered hydrogen and helium atoms in tungsten under a fusion environment
Authors: You Yu-Wei , Kong Xiang-Shan , Wu Xuebang , Liu C.S. , Chen J.L. , Luo G.-N.
Published: October 2016

Bubbles seriously degrade the mechanical properties of tungsten and thus threaten the safety of nuclear fusion devices, however, the underlying atomic mechanism of bubble growth from clustered hydrogen and helium atoms is still mysterious. In this work, first-principles calculations are therefore carried out to assess the stability of tungsten atoms around both hydrogen and helium clusters. We find that the closest vacancy-formation energies of interstitial hydrogen and helium clusters are substantially decreased. The first-nearest and second-nearest vacancy-formation energies close to vacancy–hydrogen clusters decrease in a step-like way to  ∼0, while those close to vacancy–helium clusters are reduced almost linearly to  ∼−5.46 eV when atom number reaches 10. The vacancy-formation energies closest to helium clusters are more significantly reduced than those nearest to hydrogen clusters, whatever the clusters are embedded at interstitial sites or vacancies. The reduction of vacancy-formation energies results in instability and thus emission of tungsten atoms close to interstitial helium and vacancy–helium clusters, which illustrates the experimental results, that the tungsten atoms can be emitted from the vicinity of vacancy–helium clusters. In addition, the emission of unstable tungsten atoms close to hydrogen clusters may become possible once they are disturbed by the environment. The emission of tungsten atoms facilitates the growth and evolution of hydrogen and helium clusters and ultimately the bubble formation. The results also explain the bubble formation even if no displacement damage is produced in tungsten exposed to low-energy hydrogen and helium plasma.
Investigation of inter-ELM ion heat transport in the H-mode pedestal of ASDEX Upgrade plasmas
Authors: Viezzer E. , Fable E. , Cavedon M. , Angioni C. , Dux R. , Laggner F.M. , Bernert M. , Burckhart A. , McDermott R.M. , Pütterich T. , Ryter F. , Willensdorfer M. , Wolfrum E.
Published: October 2016

The ion heat transport in the pedestal of H-mode plasmas is investigated in various H-mode discharges with different pedestal ion collisionalities. Interpretive modelling suggests that in all analyzed discharges the ion heat diffusivity coefficient,

χ

i

, in the pedestal is close to the neoclassical prediction within the experimental uncertainties. The impact of changing the deposition location of the electron cyclotron resonance heating on the ion heat transport has been studied. The effect on the background profiles is small. The pre-ELM (edge localized modes) edge profiles as well as the behaviour of the electron temperature and density, ion temperature and impurity toroidal rotation during the ELM cycle are very similar in discharges with on- and off-axis ECRH heating. No significant deviation of

χ

i

from neoclassics is observed when changing the ECRH deposition location to the plasma edge.
Zika Virus Causing Encephalomyelitis Associated With Immunoactivation
Authors: Galliez Rafael Mello , Spitz Mariana , Rafful Patricia Piazza , Cagy Marcelo , Escosteguy Claudia , Germano Caroline Spósito Brito , Sasse Elisa , Gonçalves Alessandro Luis , Silveira Paola Paz , Pezzuto Paula , Ornelas Alice Maria de Magalhães , Tanuri Amilcar , Aguiar Renato Santana , Moll Fernanda Tovar
Published: October 2016

Brazil has experienced a Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak with increased incidence of congenital malformations and neurological manifestations. We describe a case of a 26-year-old Brazilian Caucasian man infected with ZIKV and diagnosed with encephalomyelitis. Brain and spinal cord images showed hyperintense lesions on T2 and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), and levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the cerebrospinal fluid showed a remarkable increase of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8. The observed pattern suggests immune activation during the acute phase, along with the neurological impairment, with normalization in the recovery phase. This is the first longitudinal report of ZIKV infection causing encephalomyelitis with documented immune activation.
Firm Leverage, Consumer Demand, and Employment Losses During the Great Recession*
Authors: Giroud Xavier , Mueller Holger M.
Published: October 2016

This article argues that firms’ balance sheets were instrumental in the transmission of consumer demand shocks during the Great Recession. Using micro-level data from the U.S. Census Bureau, we find that establishments of more highly levered firms experienced significantly larger employment losses in response to declines in local consumer demand. These results are not driven by firms being less productive, having expanded too much prior to the Great Recession, or being generally more sensitive to fluctuations in either aggregate employment or house prices. Likewise, at the county level, we find that counties with more highly levered firms experienced significantly larger declines in employment in response to local consumer demand shocks. Accordingly, firms’ balance sheets also matter for aggregate employment. Our results suggest a possible role for employment policies that target firms directly besides conventional stimulus.
The Taxation of Superstars*
Authors: Scheuer Florian , Werning Iván
Published: October 2016

How are optimal taxes affected by superstar phenomena? To answer this question, we extend the Mirrlees model to incorporate an assignment problem in the labor market that generates superstar effects. Perhaps surprisingly, rather than providing a rationale for higher taxes, we show that superstar effects provide a force for lower marginal taxes conditional on the observed distribution of earnings. Superstar effects make the earnings schedule convex, which increases the responsiveness of individual earnings to tax changes. We show that various common elasticity measures must be adjusted upward in optimal tax formulas. Finally, we study a comparative static that does not keep the observed earnings distribution fixed: when superstar technologies are introduced, inequality increases but we obtain a neutrality result, finding optimal taxes unaltered.
Substitution, entrapment, and inefficiency? Cohort inequalities in a two-tier labour market
Authors: Barbieri Paolo , Cutuli Giorgio , Luijkx Ruud , Mari Gabriele , Scherer Stefani
Published: October 2016

In this article, we provide a longitudinal account of institutionally originated, cohort inequalities in a two-tier labour market, taking Italy as an exemplary case of partial and targeted deregulation. We examine the incidence and career consequences of temporary employment relying on panel data, across reforms implemented in the 1990s and early 2000s. A substitution effect is found for the initial stages of workers’ careers: while the youngest cohorts of school-leavers increasingly enter the flexible labour market, access to stable positions is hampered. Previous experiences in the flexible segment of the labour force also increase the risk of entrapment in temporary jobs. This lock-in dynamic is more visible for post-reforms cohorts and might have increased labour market inefficiency. Indeed, the entrapment risk has risen disproportionately for those individuals whose (un)observed characteristics could instead predict a faster exit from the flexible labour market, possibly towards stable positions. Our findings cast doubts on the transitory nature of temporary work in Italy and on the efficiency of partial and targeted reforms.
Protective Effect of Inflammasome Activation by Hydrogen Peroxide in a Mouse Model of Septic Shock
Authors: Huet Olivier , Pickering Raelene J. , Tikellis Chris , Latouche Celine , Long Fenella , Kingwell Bronwyn , Dickinson Bryan , Chang Chris J. , Masters Seth , Mackay Fabienne , Cooper Mark E. , de Haan Judy B.
Published: October 2016

Objectives:

To study the effect of a lack of antioxidant defenses during lethal pneumonia induced by Klebsiella pneumonia, compared to wild-type mice.

Setting:

Laboratory experiments.

Subjects:

C57Bl6 and glutathione peroxidase 1 knockout mice.

Intervention:

Murine acute pneumonia model induced by Klebsiella pneumonia.

Measurements and Main Results:

We show here that despite a lack of one of the major antioxidant defense enzymes, glutathione peroxidase 1 knockout mice are protected during lethal pneumonia induced by Klebsiella pneumonia, compared to wild-type mice. Furthermore, this protective effect was suppressed when antioxidant defenses were restored. Infected glutathione peroxidase 1 mice showed an early and significant, albeit transient, increase in the activity of the NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome when compared with wild-type mice. The key role of the NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome during acute pneumonia was confirmed in vivo when the protective effect was suppressed by treating glutathione peroxidase 1 mice with an interleukin-1 receptor antagonist. Additionally we report, in vitro, that increased concentrations of active caspase-1 and interleukin-1β are related to an increased concentration of hydrogen peroxide in bacterially infected glutathione peroxidase 1 macrophages and that restoring hydrogen peroxide antioxidant defenses suppressed this effect.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrate that, contrary to current thinking, an early intervention targeting NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome activity induces a timely and efficient activation of the innate immune response during acute infection. Our findings also demonstrate a role for hydrogen peroxide in the mechanisms tightly regulating NOD-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 activation.
Experts Consensus Recommendations for the Management of Calcium Channel Blocker Poisoning in Adults
Authors: St-Onge Maude , Anseeuw Kurt , Cantrell Frank Lee , Gilchrist Ian C. , Hantson Philippe , Bailey Benoit , Lavergne Valéry , Gosselin Sophie , Kerns William , Laliberté Martin , Lavonas Eric J. , Juurlink David N. , Muscedere John , Yang Chen-Chang , Sinuff Tasnim , Rieder Michael , Mégarbane Bruno
Published: October 2016

Objective:

To provide a management approach for adults with calcium channel blocker poisoning.

Data Sources, Study Selection, and Data Extraction:

Following the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation II instrument, initial voting statements were constructed based on summaries outlining the evidence, risks, and benefits.

Data Synthesis:

We recommend 1) for asymptomatic patients, observation and consideration of decontamination following a potentially toxic calcium channel blocker ingestion (1D); 2) as first-line therapies (prioritized based on desired effect), IV calcium (1D), high-dose insulin therapy (1D–2D), and norepinephrine and/or epinephrine (1D). We also suggest dobutamine or epinephrine in the presence of cardiogenic shock (2D) and atropine in the presence of symptomatic bradycardia or conduction disturbance (2D); 3) in patients refractory to the first-line treatments, we suggest incremental doses of high-dose insulin therapy if myocardial dysfunction is present (2D), IV lipid-emulsion therapy (2D), and using a pacemaker in the presence of unstable bradycardia or high-grade arteriovenous block without significant alteration in cardiac inotropism (2D); 4) in patients with refractory shock or who are periarrest, we recommend incremental doses of high-dose insulin (1D) and IV lipid-emulsion therapy (1D) if not already tried. We suggest venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, if available, when refractory shock has a significant cardiogenic component (2D), and using pacemaker in the presence of unstable bradycardia or high-grade arteriovenous block in the absence of myocardial dysfunction (2D) if not already tried; 5) in patients with cardiac arrest, we recommend IV calcium in addition to the standard advanced cardiac life-support (1D), lipid-emulsion therapy (1D), and we suggest venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation if available (2D).

Conclusion:

We offer recommendations for the stepwise management of calcium channel blocker toxicity. For all interventions, the level of evidence was very low.
Comparison of Pueraria mirifica gel and conjugated equine estrogen cream effects on vaginal health in postmenopausal women
Authors: Suwanvesh Narathorn , Manonai Jittima , Sophonsritsuk Areepan , Cherdshewasart Wichai
Published: October 2016

Objectives:

To compare the effects of a 12-week treatment with Pueraria mirifica (PM) gel or a conjugated estrogen cream on vaginal maturation index, vaginal symptom score, vaginal health assessment score, and vaginal flora in postmenopausal women.

Methods:

In a prospective, noninferiority, randomized controlled study, 82 postmenopausal women with at least one vulvovaginal symptom, that is, dryness, soreness, irritation, dyspareunia, or discharge, were recruited. Participants were randomly assigned into two groups for treatment with either PM gel or conjugated estrogen cream (CEE). The treatment regimen consisted of application of 0.5 g of product intravaginally daily for 2 weeks, and then decreased to three times per week for 10 weeks. Vaginal maturation index, vaginal symptoms score, and vaginal health assessment score were evaluated before the beginning of the study and at 6 weeks and 12 weeks after treatment with PM or CEE.

Results:

The vaginal maturation index increased significantly in both treatment groups at week 12, from 22.44 ± 22.28 to 47.56 ± 29.00 and from 27.07 ± 26.12 to 66.90 ± 22.42 in the PM and the CEE groups, respectively (P < 0.05). A significantly higher effect was, however, observed in the CEE group (P < 0.05). Vaginal symptom scores decreased significantly after treatment in both groups, from 4.37 ± 2.79 to 0.95 ± 1.88 and from 4.15 ± 2.16 to 0.68 ± 1.64 in the PM and the CEE groups, respectively (P < 0.05), with no statistically significant different between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

The use of a 12-week treatment regimen with Pueraria mirifica gel was shown to be efficacious and safe for the treatment of vulvovaginal atrophy. Conjugated estrogen cream was found to be more effective compared to Pueraria mirifica gel in improving signs of vaginal atrophy and restoring vaginal epithelium at 6 and 12 weeks.
Aging ovary and the role for advanced glycation end products
Authors: Pertynska-Marczewska Magdalena , Diamanti-Kandarakis Evanthia
Published: October 2016

Objective:

The hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone pulse generator, the pituitary gonadotropes, the ovaries, and the uterus play a crucial role in female fertility. A decline in reproductive performance represents a complex interplay of actions at all levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. Recently, in the field of female reproductive aging attention is drawn to the carbonyl stress theory. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) contribute directly to protein damage, induce a chain of oxidative stress (OS) reactions, and increase inflammatory reactions. Here, we highlight some of the mechanisms underlying glycation damage in the ovary.

Methods:

Searches of electronic databases were performed. Articles relevant to possible role of OS, AGEs, and receptor for AGE (RAGE) in aging ovary were summarized in this interpretive literature review.

Results:

Follicular microenvironment undergoes an increase in OS with aging. Data support the role of OS in ovulatory dysfunction because AGEs are well-recognized mediators of increased OS. RAGE and AGE-modified proteins with activated nuclear factor-kappa B are expressed in human ovarian tissue. It was suggested that accumulation of AGEs products at the level of the ovarian follicle might trigger early ovarian aging or could be responsible for reduced glucose uptake by granulosa cells, potentially altering follicular growth. Moreover, impaired methylglyoxal detoxification causing relevant damage to the ovarian proteome might be one of the mechanisms underlying reproductive aging.

Conclusions:

Further investigation of the role for the AGE-RAGE axis in the ovarian follicular environment is needed, and results could relate to assisted reproduction technology outcomes and new measures of ovarian reserve.
Assessment of Corneal Backward Light Scattering in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Özyol Pelin , Özyol Erhan
Published: October 2016

Objectives:

To analyze corneal backward light scattering differences in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods:

We enrolled 43 eyes from 43 diabetic patients and 40 eyes from 40 healthy controls. Corneal backward light scattering was evaluated using densitometry measurements from different corneal layers and zones obtained using Scheimpflug tomography (PentacamHR).

Results:

When densitometry values were divided by depth, anterior layer of diabetic corneas displayed significantly higher corneal backward light scattering values than controls (32.05, 95% confidence intervals [CI], 31.02–33.08 vs. 29.18, 95% CI, 27.60–30.76, P=0.024). Corneal densitometry measurements were also significantly higher in diabetic eyes compared with control eyes, when considered by concentric zones of total cornea in the 0 to 2 mm (21.65, 95% CI, 20.28–23.01 vs. 18.87 95% CI, 18.49–19.25, P=0.020), and anterior layer in the 0 to 2 mm (27.3, 95% CI, 25.04–29.56 vs. 22.31, 95% CI, 20.57–24.05, P<0.001), 2 to 6 mm (26.2, 95% CI, 24.99–27.41 vs. 22.4, 95% CI, 20.18–24.62, P<0.001) and 6 to 10 mm (32.19, 95% CI, 29.98–34.40 vs. 27.2, 95% CI, 25.39–29.01, P=0.022). There was excellent positive correlation between anterior total corneal densitometry measurements and duration of diabetes (r=0.802, P<0.001), although no significant correlation was observed with anterior total corneal densitometry measurements and hemoglobin A1c levels (r=0.080, P=0.621) in diabetic eyes.

Conclusions:

Backward light scattering values from the anterior layer of the cornea is greater in diabetic eyes than in controls. Anterior total corneal densitometry measurements show positive correlation with the duration of diabetes.
Objective and Subjective Outcome of Clear Lensectomy With Toric IOL Implantation After Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking in Selected Cases of Keratoconus
Authors: Abou Samra Waleed Ali , Awad Eman Azmy , El Kannishy Amr Hassan
Published: October 2016

Aim:

To evaluate the visual and topographic outcomes of a two-stage approach treatment for selected cases of progressive keratoconus (KC); corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) followed by phacoemulsification with toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

Methods:

The study included 9 eyes of 6 patients diagnosed with progressive KC, aged from 35 to 47 years (41.6±11.2 years). All studied eyes underwent a two-stage approach treatment: first corneal collagen CXL followed after at least 6 months by phacoemulsification with foldable toric IOL implantation in both eyes of three patients and only one eye of the other three patients. A complete ophthalmological examination was performed preoperatively and postoperatively. Topographical and visual outcomes were evaluated during 1-year follow-up period.

Results:

At baseline, seven eyes had mild and two eyes had moderate KC. Sphere ranged from −3.00 to −8.00 diopter (D) and cylinder from −3.50 to −5.50 D. All eyes could be corrected by glasses to 0.50 (log of minimal angle of resolution [logMAR]) or more. At 6 months after CXL, only Kmax decreased significantly from baseline, with no change in visual acuity or manifest refraction. After phacoemulsification with toric IOL implantation, sphere changed from −5.74±1.88 D preoperatively to 0.33±0.72 D 12 months postoperatively (P<0.001), and cylinder changed from −4.53±0.98 to −1.10±0.76 D (P<0.001). There was significant improvement in mean uncorrected distance visual acuity from logMAR 1.43±0.51 preoperatively to 0.30±0.09 postoperatively (P<0.001) and the mean corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) from 0.34±0.12 preoperatively to 0.24±0.13 (P=0.03) 1 year after IOL implantation. All patients were satisfied with their visual improvement.

Conclusions:

This two-stage approach in selected cases of progressive KC is a safe and effective procedure regarding keratometric stability, and visual and refractive results.
Protective determinants of sickness absence among employees with multisite pain—a 7-year follow-up
Authors: Haukka Eija , Ojajärvi Anneli , Kaila-Kangas Leena , Leino-Arjas Päivi
Published: October 2016

We identified factors protective of all-cause sickness absence (SA) among subjects with multisite musculoskeletal pain (MSP). The nationally representative source sample comprised 3420 actively working Finns aged 30 to 55 in year 2000 and alive at follow-up. Pain in 18 body locations was combined into four sites (neck, low back, upper limbs, and lower limbs). The baseline prevalence of MSP (pain in ≥ 2 sites) was 32%. Baseline data on sociodemographic factors, work ability, work, health, and lifestyle were gathered by questionnaire, interview, and clinical examination and linked with national registers on all-cause SA (periods lasting ≥10 workdays) for 2002 to 2008. Based on trajectory analysis, 74% of those with MSP had a low and 26% a high probability of SA. In logistic regression analysis, younger age, male sex, and professional occupational group were inversely associated with SA. Allowing for these, good physician-assessed work ability, physically light work, possibility to adjust workday length, encouraging workplace atmosphere, no problems with working community or mental stress, normal weight, and no sleep disorders were predictive of lower SA rates (odds ratios between 0.47 and 0.70). In a final stepwise model adjusted for age, sex, and occupational group, no exposure to lifting (odds ratio 0.58, 95% confidence interval 0.39-0.85) and to repetitive hand movements (0.57, 0.39-0.83), possibility to adjust workday length (0.73, 0.53-0.99), and normal weight (0.59, 0.40-0.87) were inversely associated with SA. In conclusion, several modifiable factors related to work and lifestyle were found as predictive of lower rates of longer SA among occupationally active subjects with MSP.
Metabolic Abnormalities Related to Treatment With Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors in Patients With Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Fjukstad Katrine Kveli , Engum Anne , Lydersen Stian , Dieset Ingrid , Steen Nils Eiel , Andreassen Ole A. , Spigset Olav
Published: October 2016

Objective

The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) on cardiovascular risk factors in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Method

We used data from a cross-sectional study on 1301 patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, of whom 280 were treated with SSRIs. The primary outcome variable was the serum concentration of total cholesterol. Secondary outcome variables were low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride and glucose levels, body mass index, waist circumference, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, an SSRI serum concentration in the middle of the reference interval was associated with an increase of the total cholesterol level by 14.56 mg/dL (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.27–23.85 mg/dL, P = 0.002), the LDL cholesterol level by 8.50 mg/dL (CI 0.22–16.77 mg/dL, P = 0.044), the triglyceride level by 46.49 mg/dL (CI 26.53–66.46 mg/dL, P < 0.001) and the occurrence of the metabolic syndrome by a factor of 2.10 (CI 1.21–3.62, P = 0.008). There were also significant associations between the SSRI dose and total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.

Conclusions

This study is the first to reveal significant associations between SSRI use and metabolic abnormalities in patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Although the effects were statistically significant, alterations were small. Thus, the clinical impact of the findings is most likely limited.
Child Sexual Abuse Revictimization: Child Demographics, Familial Psychosocial Factors, and Sexual Abuse Case Characteristics
Authors: Hornor Gail , Fischer Beth A.
Published: October 2016

Introduction:The purposes of this study were to describe child demographics, familial psychosocial factors, and sexual abuse case characteristics in children experiencing sexual abuse revictimization before the age of 18 years, and to compare them with children not identified as experiencing revictimization. Method:A retrospective chart review was conducted from both the revictimization group and the one-assessment group and reviewed for child sexual abuse case characteristics, familial psychosocial characteristics, and child demographic information. Results:Children in the revictimization group were younger and more likely to possess a developmental delay and mental health diagnosis when compared with children in the one-assessment group. Higher proportions of parents in the one-assessment group were supportive and believed their child's sexual abuse allegation when compared with parents of the revictimization group. Families in the revictimization group were more likely to report multiple psychosocial risk factors when compared with the one-assessment group, including domestic violence, substance abuse concerns, mental health, parental history of sexual abuse, and financial concerns. Discussion:This study suggests that children most at risk for sexual abuse revictimization often present with multiple familial psychosocial concerns and have parents/caregivers who are not supportive of them or their sexual abuse allegations.
Comparing the Effectiveness of an Axial and a Centrifugal Left Ventricular Assist Device in Ventricular Unloading
Authors: Turer David M. , Koch Kelly L. , Koelling Todd M. , Wu Audrey H. , Pagani Francis D. , Haft Jonathan W.
Published: October 2016

Centrifugal (CFG) and axial flow (AX) left ventricular assist devices have different hydrodynamic properties that may impact the effectiveness of left ventricular unloading. We sought to determine whether patients implanted with the HeartWare HVAD (CFG) and HeartMate II (AX) had a similar degree of hemodynamic support by comparing parameters measured using echocardiography and right heart catheterization. Using our prospectively collected database, we identified 268 patients implanted with the AX and 93 with the CFG. Demographic characteristics were similar between groups. AX patients had a significantly lower INTERMACS score. Baseline ventricular dimension, mitral regurgitation, right ventricular systolic pressure, right atrial pressure, mean pulmonary artery pressure, cardiac output, and pulmonary vascular resistance were similar. Wedge pressure was higher, and left ventricular ejection fraction was lower at baseline in the AX. After implantation, there was a greater reduction of right atrial pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, mean pulmonary artery pressure, and left ventricular internal diameter during diastole in the AX cohort. After implantation, cardiac output by Fick calculation showed a greater improvement in the AX group. These results demonstrate that both AX and CFG devices resulted in left ventricular unloading; however, AX devices may offer advantages in the magnitude of left ventricular unloading, which could have implications in myocardial recovery or reduction in pulmonary vascular resistance before transplantation.
Carotid Artery Dissection and Ischemic Stroke After Severe Coughing
Authors: Zank Jennifer Shin , Singh Rani , Carney Michele
Published: October 2016

Vigorous coughing leading to internal carotid artery dissection has been described in the adult literature but has not been reported in the pediatric population. We describe an 8-year-old right-handed girl who had a 1-week history of increased work of breathing and vigorous coughing. She initially presented to her pediatrician's office for her respiratory symptoms which improved with steroid therapy and albuterol treatments. However, she developed evolving left-sided motor weakness over the course of 2 days and presented to our pediatric emergency department where she was found to have an ischemic stroke in the right corona radiata with a right internal carotid artery dissection.
Zika Virus Disease: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Darko Richmond , Mashburn Jessica L.
Published: October 2016

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection and its associated complications have become a significant public health concern. Zika virus is a Flavivirus, and is transmitted to humans by Aedes species mosquitoes. In May 2015, the World Health Organization reported the first locally acquired transmission of ZIKV in Brazil, the first case in the Western Hemisphere. There have also been reports of increased incidence of microcephaly and other neurologic complications associated with ZIKV infection, as well as a 20-fold increase in the incidence of Guillain-Barre Syndrome during ZIKV outbreaks. In light of the clusters of microcephaly and neurologic manifestations in areas of ZIKV transmission, the World Health Organization declared ZIKV and associated complications an international public health emergency. The clinical presentations of ZIKV disease resemble many common infections, making the diagnosis of ZIKV disease a clinical challenge. Patients with ZIKV infection may have other coinfections that can distract clinicians from suspecting ZIKV disease in their patients. Complications from ZIKV, although uncommon, may be severe. Therefore, it is important for health care providers to remain alert and up to date in the efforts to control this emerging global health crisis. It is critical for physicians and other providers to know the growing list of countries and territories on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list of nations with endemic ZIKV disease and to work closely with local health departments to prevent spread. In this article, we present a case of ZIKV disease in a pediatric patient and review of the current literature.
Distinct protein and mRNA kinetics of skeletal muscle proton transporters following exercise can influence interpretation of adaptations to training
Authors: McGinley Cian , Bishop David J.
Published: October 2016

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Following a training intervention, how is the interpretation of adaptations in skeletal muscle H+ transporters influenced by biopsy timing in the context of individual protein and mRNA kinetics after the final exercise bout?

What is the main finding and its importance?

We show that distinct postexercise protein and mRNA kinetics for monocarboxylate transporter 1/4 and sodium–hydrogen exchanger 1 indicate that timing of a single end‐point biopsy after a training intervention can influence the inferences made. Furthermore, we found the intrasubject, intersample variability of the muscle buffer capacity titration assay to be greater than the typical training effect.

In order to gain a better understanding of training‐induced adaptations in skeletal muscle pH regulation, in this study we measured protein and mRNA kinetics of proton (H+) transporters for 72 h following a bout of high‐intensity interval exercise (HIIE), conducted after 4 weeks of similar training. We also assayed muscle buffer capacity (βm) by a titration technique (βmin vitro) over the same period. Sixteen active men cycled for seven bouts of 2 min at ∼80% of peak aerobic power, interspersed with 1 min rest. Compared with the first 9 h postexercise, monocarboxylate transporter (MCT) 1 protein content was ∼1.3‐fold greater 24–72 h post‐HIIE, whereas there was no such change in MCT4 protein content. Conversely, MCT1 and MCT4 mRNA expression progressively decreased 9–72 h post‐HIIE. Sodium–hydrogen exchanger 1 (NHE1) protein content was lower 9 h post‐HIIE (∼0.8‐fold) compared with every other postexercise time point, but NHE1 mRNA expression was 2.2 to 2.9‐fold greater 24–72 h post‐HIIE, compared with the first 24 h post‐HIIE. Furthermore, we determined the intrasubject, intersample variability (11.5%) of βmin vitro for resting samples taken on consecutive days to be greater than the typical training effect (mean 6%; 95% confidence limits ±4%). In conclusion, the delay in steady‐state protein turnover should inform biopsy timing in studies investigating the response to training of the H+ transport proteins, whereas the temporal resolution provided by single time points has been shown to be of limited epistemological value for their corresponding mRNA expression. Finally, our data cast doubt on the ecological validity of the βmin vitro assay for measuring true changes in βm.