bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to Understand Belief Drift? Externalization of Variables Considering Different Background Knowledge
Authors: Hayashi Teruaki , Ohsawa Yukio
Published: December 2018

It is necessary to make decisions by integrating appropriate information that is not used in daily life in disaster prevention before, during, and after disasters. Despite this, it is difficult for people to make use of appropriate information under circumstances where various kinds of information are complicated. People can be in an agitated state in which they do not know what will happen. In this paper, we define this situation as Belief Drift (BD) and discuss what kinds of data should be acquired to understand situations of BD because factors causing BD may be diverse. We collected explanations of BD from researchers with different background knowledge and discussed sets of variables inferred by VARIABLE QUEST (VQ). VQ is the inferring method for variables unifying cooccurrence graphs of variables in the datasets. The results indicate that common variables are externalized from the different explanations of BD by researchers with different background knowledge. Results suggest that, even if the terms used to explain the state of BD differ, the data acquired to understand BD are common.
Uplink Resource Allocation for Interference Mitigation in Two-Tier Femtocell Networks
Authors: Pyun Sung-Yeop , Lee Woongsup , Jo Ohyun
Published: December 2018

Two-tier femtocell networks, in which a large number of femto base stations (BSs) are deployed within a region overlapping with a macrocell, can provide an economical means of increasing user capacity and coverage. Given that femto BSs may be deployed with no cell planning, cross-tier interference generated from a number of macrocells and femtocells can cause severe problems. In particular, a macro mobile station (MS) that transmits uplink data may generate severe interference with adjacent femtocells, which causes performance degradation. In order to solve these problems, two novel resource allocation schemes, optimization and heuristic, are proposed, which efficiently reduce uplink interference in two-tier femtocell networks. Simulation results at the system level verify that both proposed schemes can improve the average capacity of the femtocells, but the heuristic scheme outperforms the optimization scheme in terms of computational complexity.
Quantitative Metastatic Lymph Node Regions on Magnetic Resonance Imaging Are Superior to AJCC N Classification for the Prognosis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Xin , Ou Xiaomin , Yang Youqi , Xu Tingting , Shen Chunying , Ding Jianhui , Hu Chaosu
Published: December 2018

Purpose. Quantitative lymph node burden has been demonstrated to be a critical prognosticator in various malignancies, yet it was seldom explored in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This study aimed to investigate the impact of the number of metastatic lymph node regions (LRN) on prognosis of NPC and to establish a new N classification system based on LRN.Methods and Materials. The magnetic resonance images (MRI) of 354 nondisseminated NPC patients before radical treatment were retrospectively evaluated. The regions with positive lymph nodes (LNs) were quantified according to 2013 updated guidelines for neck node levels. Prognostic value of LRN on distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) was analyzed using multivariable Cox model after adjusting for other nodal characteristics and therapeutic factors.Results. LRN strongly correlated with the size, laterality, level, extracapsular extension (ECE), and necrosis of LNs. Risk of distant metastasis significantly escalated with increased LRN (P<0.001). 5-year DMFS for LRN 0-1, 2-6, and⩾7 was 97.0%, 86.7%, and 69.7%, respectively. In multivariable Cox analysis, LRN (HR 2.45; 95% CI 1.55-3.88; P<0.001) and maximal LN diameter (MLD) >6cm (HR 4.11; 95% CI 2.23-7.56; P<0.001) were identified as independent predictors of DMFS. Laterality and level showed no prognostic significance when accounting for LRN. A novel N classification scheme was derived by recursive partitioning analysis based on LRN and MLD. Compared with the 7th and 8th edition of American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) systems, the new stratification exhibited better accuracy in predicting survivals.Conclusions. LRN is a promising quantitative predictor of survival in NPC, eclipsing other classic LN characteristics in prognostic value. The simplified N classification scheme with LRN and MLD is predictive and practical, thus warranting further validation in future.
The Interaction of lncRNA-HEIH and lncRNA-HULC with HBXIP in Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Ruan Lingjuan , Huang Lifei , Zhao Lilai , Wang Qiang , Pan Xiaocheng , Zhang Anmin , Bai Qiuping , Lv Zongjun
Published: December 2018

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor for the development of hepatic cirrhosis (HC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which are associated with very high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Many studies have shown that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that are highly expressed in HCC (lncRNA-HEIH) and highly upregulated in liver cancer (lncRNA-HULC) have been implicated in the development and progression of hepatitis B-related HC and HCC. In this study, reverse transcription and quantitative PCR were used to detect the expression of lncRNA-HEIH and lncRNA-HULC and western blot analysis to detect the expression of hepatitis B X-interacting protein (HBXIP). RNA immunoprecipitation was used to detect the interaction of HBXIP with lncRNA-HULC and lncRNA-HEIH. The results showed that lncRNA-HEIH, lncRNA-HULC, and HBXIP were upregulated in hepatitis B patients, particularly those with hepatitis B-related HCC. Both lncRNA-HEIH and lncRNA-HULC interacted with HBXIP. These results suggest that lncRNA-HEIH and lncRNA-HULC interact with HBXIP in hepatitis B-related diseases.
Noncontrast Computed Tomography Parameters for Predicting Shock Wave Lithotripsy Outcome in Upper Urinary Tract Stone Cases
Authors: Yamashita Shimpei , Kohjimoto Yasuo , Iwahashi Yuya , Iguchi Takashi , Nishizawa Satoshi , Kikkawa Kazuro , Hara Isao
Published: December 2018

Kidney stones are a major public health concern with continuously increasing worldwide prevalence. Shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) is the first line treatment choice for upper urinary tract calculi with ureteroscopy and has advantages of safety and noninvasiveness, but the treatment success rate of SWL is lower than that of other therapies. It is therefore important to identify predictive factors for SWL outcome and select a suitable treatment choice for patients with upper urinary tract calculi. In recent years, computed tomography (CT) has become the gold standard for diagnosis of upper urinary tract calculi. Several factors based on CT images, including skin-to-stone distance, mean stone density, stone heterogeneity index, and variation coefficient of stone density, have been reported to be useful for predicting SWL outcome. In addition, a new method of analysis, CT texture analysis, is reportedly useful for predicting SWL outcomes. This review aims to summarize CT parameters for predicting the outcome of shock wave lithotripsy in stone cases in the upper urinary tract.
Enhanced Oxidative Damage and Nrf2 Downregulation Contribute to the Aggravation of Periodontitis by Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Li Xumin , Sun Xiaoyu , Zhang Xiaorong , Mao Yixin , Ji Yinghui , Shi Lixi , Cai Wenjin , Wang Panpan , Wu Gang , Gan Xueqi , Huang Shengbin
Published: December 2018

Diabetes mellitus is a well‐recognized risk factor for periodontitis. The goal of the present study was to elucidate whether oxidative stress and nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) participate in the aggravation of periodontitis by diabetes. For this purpose, we assigned Wistar rats to control, periodontitis, diabetes, and diabetic periodontitis groups. Two weeks after induction of diabetes by streptozotocin, periodontitis was induced by ligation. Two weeks later, periodontal tissues and blood were harvested and analyzed by stereomicroscopy, immunohistochemistry, and real‐time polymerase chain reaction. We found that ligation induced more severe bone loss and periodontal cell apoptosis in diabetic rats than in normal rats (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, periodontitis significantly enhanced local oxidative damage (elevated expression of 3‐nitrotyrosine, 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal, and 8‐hydroxy‐deoxyguanosine), whereas diabetes significantly increased systemic oxidative damage and suppressed antioxidant capacity (increased malondialdehyde expression and decreased superoxide dismutase activity) (p < 0.05). Simultaneous periodontitis and diabetes synergistically aggravated both local and systemic oxidative damage (p < 0.05); this finding was strongly correlated with the more severe periodontal destruction in diabetic periodontitis. Furthermore, gene and protein expression of Nrf2 was significantly downregulated in diabetic periodontitis (p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis indicated that the reduced Nrf2 expression was strongly correlated with the aggravated periodontal destruction and oxidative damage in diabetic periodontitis. We conclude that enhanced local and systemic oxidative damage and Nrf2 downregulation contribute to the development and progression of diabetic periodontitis.
Prevention of Reinforcement Corrosion in Concrete by Sodium Lauryl Sulphate: Electrochemical and Gravimetric Investigations
Authors: Paulson Binsi M. , Joby Thomas K. , Raphael Vinod P. , Shaju K. S.
Published: December 2018

Prolonged corrosion inhibition response of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) on steel reinforcement in contaminated concrete was investigated by gravimetric method and electrochemical techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Using half cell potential measurements probability of steel reinforcement corrosion was monitored for a period of 480 days. FT-IR spectroscopic analysis of the corroded products deposited on the steel reinforcement revealed the mechanism of corrosion inhibition. Modification in the surface morphology of steel specimens in the concrete was examined by optical microscopy. During the period of investigation (480 days), SLS showed appreciable corrosion inhibition efficiency on the steel reinforcement in concrete.
A Review on the Control of Second Order Underactuated Mechanical Systems
Authors: Krafes Soukaina , Chalh Zakaria , Saka Abdelmjid
Published: December 2018

This paper describes some important classes of two degrees of freedom of underactuated mechanical system and also surveys review of the recent state‐of‐the‐art concerning the mathematical modeling of these systems, their classification, and all the control strategies (linear, nonlinear, and intelligent) that have been made so far (i.e., from the year 2000 to date) to control these systems. Future research and challenges concerning the improvement, the effectiveness, and robustness of the proposed controllers for underactuated mechanical systems are presented.
Apoptosis Effects of Dihydrokaempferol Isolated from Bauhinia championii on Synoviocytes
Authors: Zhang Yuqin , Yan Guohong , Sun Chengtao , Li Huang , Fu Yanhui , Xu Wei
Published: December 2018

Bauhinia championii (Benth.) Benth. is a traditional medicinal plant used in China to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), especially in She ethnic minority group. This study focused on the active constituents from the rattan of B. championii (Benth.) Benth., which possess potential apoptosis effects. A conventional phytochemical separation method for the isolation of compounds from the ethyl acetate extract of B. championii was developed. The procedure involved extraction, liquid–liquid partitioning with ethyl acetate, and subsequent compound purification, respectively. Additionally, cell viability of dihydrokaempferol found abundantly in it was evaluated in vitro by MTS, and the antiapoptosis effect was evaluated by annexin V/PI staining (Flow Cytometry Analysis) and western blot. The results showed that nine flavonoids, and five other compounds, were isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of B. championii and were identified as β‐sitosterol (1), 5,6,7,3′,4′,5′‐hexamethoxyflavone (2), 3′,4′,5,7‐tetrahydroxyflavone (3), 5,7,3′,4′,5′‐pentamethoxyflavone (4), 4′‐hydroxy‐5,7,3′,5′‐pentamethoxyflavone (5), apigenin (6), liquiritigenin (7), 5, 7‐dihydroxylcoumarin (8), 3′,4′,5,7, ‐pentamethoxyflavone (9), n‐octadecanoate (10), lupine ketone (11), dibutylphthalate (12), dihydrokaempferol (13), and 5,7,3′,5′‐tetrahydroxy‐6‐methylflavanone (14). Among these compounds, 5‐14 were isolated for the first time from B. championii. In addition, apoptosis effects of abundant dihydrokaempferol were evaluated in vitro. Dihydrokaempferol exhibited inhibitory effects on the proliferation of synoviocytes. Furthermore, dihydrokaempferol promoted Bax and Bad expression, as well as the cleavage of caspase‐9, caspase‐3, and PARP. Meanwhile, it inhibited Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xL expression. These findings indicate that dihydrokaempferol isolated from the ethyl acetate extract of B. championii effectively promotes apoptosis, which is an important process through suppression of apoptotic activity. The results are encouraging for further studies on the use of B. championii in the treatment of RA.
Dynamic Behavior of a Commensalism Model with Nonmonotonic Functional Response and Density‐Dependent Birth Rates
Authors: Zhao Liang , Qin Bin , Sun Xianbo
Published: December 2018

In this paper, we propose and analyze a commensalism model with nonmonotonic functional response and density‐dependent birth rates. The model can have at most four nonnegative equilibria. By applying the differential inequality theory, we show that each equilibrium can be globally attractive under suitable conditions. However, commensalism can be established only when resources for both species are large enough.
Genetic, Epigenetic, and Immunologic Profiling of MMR-Deficient Relapsed Glioblastoma
Authors: Indraccolo Stefano , Lombardi Giuseppe , Fassan Matteo , Pasqualini Lorenza , Giunco Silvia , Marcato Raffaella , Gasparini Alessandra , Candiotto Cinzia , Nalio Silvia , Fiduccia Pasquale , Fanelli Giuseppe Nicolò , Pambuku Ardi , Della Puppa Alessandro , D'Avella Domenico , Bonaldi Laura , Gardiman Marina Paola , Bertorelle Roberta , De Rossi Anita , Zagonel Vittorina
Published: December 2018

Purpose:

In-depth characterization of recurrent glioblastoma (rGBM) might contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind tumor progression and enable rGBM treatment with targeted drugs.

Experimental Design: In this study, GBM samples were collected at diagnosis and recurrence from adult patients treated with Stupp protocol. Expression of mismatch repair (MMR) proteins was evaluated by IHC, followed by whole exome sequencing (WES) of tumor samples showing loss of MSH6 reactivity. Established genetic, epigenetic, and immunologic markers were assessed by standard methods and correlated with loss of MMR proteins and patient survival.

Results:

Expression of MMR proteins was partially or completely lost in 25.9% rGBM samples. Specifically, 12 samples showed partial or total MSH6 expression reduction. Conversely, 96.4% of GBM samples at diagnosis expressed MMR markers. WES disclosed lack of variants in MMR genes in primary samples, whereas two MSH6-negative rGBM samples shared a c.3438+1G>A* splicing MSH6 variant with a potential loss of function effect. MSH6-negative rGBM specimens had high tumor mutational burden (TMB), but no microsatellite instability. In contrast, GBM samples with partial loss of MMR proteins disclosed low TMB. MMR-deficient rGBM showed significant telomere shortening and MGMT methylation and are characterized by highly heterogeneous MHC class I expression.

Conclusions:

Multilevel profiling of MMR-deficient rGBM uncovered hypermutated genotype uncoupled from enriched expression of immune-related markers. Assessment of MHC class I expression and TMB should be included in protocols aiming to identify rGBM patients potentially eligible for treatment with drugs targeting immune-checkpoint inhibitors.
MGMT Promoter Methylation Cutoff with Safety Margin for Selecting Glioblastoma Patients into Trials Omitting Temozolomide: A Pooled Analysis of Four Clinical Trials
Authors: Hegi Monika E. , Genbrugge Els , Gorlia Thierry , Stupp Roger , Gilbert Mark R. , Chinot Olivier L. , Nabors L. Burt , Jones Greg , Van Criekinge Wim , Straub Josef , Weller Michael
Published: December 2018

Purpose:

The methylation status of the O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) gene promoter is predictive for benefit from temozolomide in glioblastoma (GBM). A clinically optimized cutoff was sought allowing patient selection for therapy without temozolomide, while avoiding to withhold it from patients who may potentially benefit.

Experimental Design: Quantitative MGMT methylation-specific PCR data were obtained for newly diagnosed patients with GBM screened or treated with standard radiotherapy and temozolomide in four randomized trials. The pooled dataset was randomly split into a training and test dataset. The unsupervised cutoff was obtained at a 50% probability to be (un)methylated. ROC analysis identified an optimal cutoff supervised by overall survival (OS).

Results:

For 4,041 patients valid MGMT results were obtained, whereof 1,725 were randomized. The unsupervised cutoff in the training dataset was 1.27 (log2[1,000 × (MGMT+1)/ACTB]), separating unmethylated and methylated patients. The optimal supervised cutoff for unmethylated patients was −0.28 (AUC = 0.61), classifying “truly unmethylated” (≤−0.28) and “gray zone” patients (>−0.28, ≤1.27), the latter comprising approximately 10% of cases. In contrast, for patients with MGMT methylation (>1.27) more methylation was not related to better outcome. Both methylated and gray zone patients performed significantly better for OS than truly unmethylated patients [HR = 0.35, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.27–0.45, P < 0.0001; HR = 0.58, 95% CI, 0.43–0.78, P < 0.001], validated in the test dataset. The MGMT assay was highly reproducible upon retesting of 218 paired samples (R2 = 0.94).

Conclusions:

Low MGMT methylation (gray zone) may confer some sensitivity to temozolomide treatment, hence the lower safety margin should be considered for selecting patients with unmethylated GBM into trials omitting temozolomide.
Intracellular Activation of Complement C3 Leads to PD-L1 Antibody Treatment Resistance by Modulating Tumor-Associated Macrophages
Authors: Zha Haoran , Wang Xinxin , Zhu Ying , Chen Diangang , Han Xiao , Yang Fei , Gao Jianbao , Hu Chunyan , Shu Chi , Feng Yi , Tan Yulong , Zhang Jinyu , Li Yongsheng , Wan Yisong Y. , Guo Bo , Zhu Bo
Published: December 2018

Complement aids in the construction of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Tumor cell–derived C3 has been previously reported, but whether and how it acts on antitumor immunity remains to be elucidated. Here, we describe a mechanism for tumor cell–derived C3 in suppressing antitumor immunity. Tumor cell–derived C3 was activated intracellularly, which results in generation of C3a. C3a modulated tumor-associated macrophages via C3a-C3aR-PI3Kγ signaling, thereby repressing antitumor immunity. Deletion of C3 in tumor cells that had high C3 expression enhanced efficacy of anti–PD-L1 treatment. Collectively, our results suggest tumor cell–derived C3 may be a useful target for cancer immunotherapy and that targeting C3 in tumor cells may enhance antitumor immunity.
An Antibody Designed to Improve Adoptive NK-Cell Therapy Inhibits Pancreatic Cancer Progression in a Murine Model
Authors: Lee Jaemin , Kang Tae Heung , Yoo Wonbeak , Choi Hyunji , Jo Seongyea , Kong Kyungsu , Lee Sang-Rae , Kim Sun-Uk , Kim Ji-Su , Cho Duck , Kim Janghwan , Kim Jeong-Yoon , Kwon Eun-Soo , Kim Seokho
Published: December 2018

Natural killer (NK) cells are primary immune cells that target cancer cells and can be used as a therapeutic agent against pancreatic cancer. Despite the usefulness of NK cells, NK-cell therapy is limited by tumor cell inhibition of NK-cell homing to tumor sites, thereby preventing a sustained antitumor immune response. One approach to successful cancer immunotherapy is to increase trafficking of NK cells to tumor tissues. Here, we developed an antibody-based NK-cell–homing protein, named NK-cell–recruiting protein-conjugated antibody (NRP-body). The effect of NRP-body on infiltration of NK cells into primary and metastatic pancreatic cancer was evaluated in vitro and in murine pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma models. The NRP-body increased NK-cell infiltration of tumors along a CXCL16 gradient (CXCL16 is cleaved from the NRP-body by furin expressed on the surface of pancreatic cancer cells). CXCL16 induced NK-cell infiltration by activating RhoA via the ERK signaling cascade. Administration of the NRP-body to pancreatic cancer model mice increased tumor tissue infiltration of transferred NK cells and reduced the tumor burden compared with that in controls. Overall survival of NRP-body–treated mice (even the metastasis models) was higher than that of mice receiving NK cells alone. In conclusion, increasing NK-cell infiltration into tumor tissues improved response to this cancer immunotherapy. The combination of an NRP-body with NK-cell therapy might be useful for treating pancreatic cancer.
Nasal High-Flow Therapy as Primary Respiratory Support for Preterm Infants without the Need for Rescue with Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
Authors: Zivanovic Sanja , Scrivens Alexandra , Panza Raffaella , Reynolds Peter , Laforgia Nicola , Ives Kevin N. , Roehr Charles C.
Published: December 2018

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of nasal high-flow therapy (nHFT) as primary respiratory support for preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in two tertiary neonatal units. Methods: A retrospective outcome analysis of initial respiratory support strategies was performed in two tertiary neonatal units in the UK: John Radcliffe Hospital (JRH), Oxford and St Peter’s Hospital (SPH), Chertsey. Infants born between 28+0 and 36+6 weeks gestational age (GA) between May 2013 and June 2015 were included. Results: A total of 381 infants, 191 from JRH and 190 from SPH, were analysed. Infants were stabilised in the delivery room using mask continuous positive airway pressure followed by nHFT. Endotracheal intubation was performed according to local protocols, depending on the severity of RDS. There were significant differences in initial intubation rates according to GA (26% JRH vs. 16.9% SPH, p < 0.001 for babies < 32 weeks GA, and 8.2% JRH vs. 6.5% SPH, p < 0.001 for babies > 32 weeks GA); however, most infants were successfully transitioned to nHFT. Intubation rates during the first 72 h were comparable between centres (14.7% JRH vs. 11.1% SPH, p = 0.29). There were no differences in neonatal morbidities, including air leak, duration of oxygen supplementation, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, sepsis, retinopathy of prematurity, intraventricular haemorrhage, necrotising enterocolitis, or median time to full-suck feeds. Conclusion: Use of nHFT for primary respiratory support, without use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure as “rescue” treatment, resulted in intubation rates lower or comparable to published data from randomised controlled trials.
Effect of Continued Administration of Low-dose Aspirin for Intraoperative Bleeding Control in Gastric Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection
Authors: Horikawa Yohei , Mizutamari Hiroya , Mimori Nobuya , Kato Yuhei , Sawaguchi Masayuki , Fushimi Saki , Sato Sayaka , Okubo Syunji
Published: December 2018

Background: The use of antithrombotic agents for the prevention of cerebro-cardioembolic events has increased, and recent guidelines have recommended the continued administration of low-dose aspirin (LDA) during endoscopic procedures with a high risk of bleeding. However, the influence of LDA on intraoperative bleeding control status during Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) remains unclear. Methods: We examined 293 consecutive patients who underwent ESD for gastric cancers between January 2014 and February 2018. Patients administered with LDA (n = 52) were compared with those without antithrombotic therapy (n = 241; control) by propensity-score matching (PSM) concerning outcomes of ESD. Results: PSM analysis yielded 50 matched pairs. Comparison showed similar values for frequency of intraoperative major bleeding: 1 (0–4) times (median [range]) in the LDA group and 0 (0–5) in the control group respectively (p = 0.710). Others (frequency of preventive coagulation, procedure time, decrease of hemoglobin levels, en bloc resection, complete resection) were the same with a few adverse events including perforation (0%), and thromboembolism (0%). Postoperative bleeding rate was 1.9% in LDA group. Multivariate analysis indicated that location U and circumference on the posterior wall were associated with for multiple major intraoperative bleeding. Conclusion: The study suggests that gastric ESD can be safely accomplished without cessation of LDA.
Gankyrin Contributes to Tumorigenesis and Chemoresistance in Sporadic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Sakurai Toshiharu , Komeda Yoriaki , Nagai Tomoyuki , Kamata Ken , Minaga Kosuke , Yamao Kentarou , Takenaka Mamoru , Hagiwara Satoru , Watanabe Tomohiro , Nishida Naoshi , Kashida Hiroshi , Nakagawa Kazuhiko , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: December 2018

Background: Although Gankyrin is overexpressed in many malignancies, the role of Gankyrin for tumorigenesis and chemoresistance remains to be elucidated in sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC). Aims: We investigate whether Gankyrin affects Adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) inactivation-induced tumorigenesis and therapeutic response to anti-angiogenic agents. Methods: Epithelial cell-specific APC and/or Gankyrin-deficient mice were used. The patients with metastatic CRC (n = 53) who were enrolled in this study underwent resection of primary cancer followed by systemic chemotherapy containing bevacizumab. We determined whether gene expression in CRC tissues before chemotherapy is associated with radiological responses. Results: Deletion of Gankyrin in epithelial cell reduced the expression of c-Myc, a critical mediator of the APC signaling pathway, and interleukin-6. Gankyrin deficiency decreased the expression of Bmi1, a downstream molecule of c-Myc, and the activity of V-Akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase, leading to reduced Apc inactivation-induced tumorigenesis. Of 53 patients, 38 (72%) had increased Gankyrin expression in tumor cells. The enhanced Gankyrin expression in tumor cells was associated with unfavorable progression-free survival (log-rank test p = 0.026). Conclusion: Gankyrin in epithelial cell contributes to the development of sporadic CRC and the expression could serve as a biomarker to predict therapeutic response in patients with metastatic CRC.
Multimodal Imaging in a Case of Idiopathic Neuroretinitis
Authors: Esaki Yuya , Hirano Yoshio , Yasuda Yusuke , Tomiyasu Taneto , Suzuki Norihiro , Yasukawa Tsutomu , Ogura Yuichiro
Published: December 2018

A 37-year-old woman presented with painful visual loss in the left eye for 2 weeks. The best-corrected visual acuity was 20/200. Ophthalmic examination of the left eye revealed vitreous cells, optic disc swelling, serous retinal detachment, and macular star-figure hard exudates. Swept-source optical coherence tomography showed both inner and outer retinas were swollen, the choroid was thickened, and the corresponding retinal pigment epithelium was elevated. Wide-field indocyanine green angiography disclosed multiple hypofluorescent spots in the mid-periphery. Taken together, an involvement of optic disc, entire retina, and choroid was considered in the current case.
Histórias da horta da Faculdade de Saúde Pública
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Higino Adriana Fiorussi , Prager Ana Carolina ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Bertolini Ana Maria ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Bógus Cláudia Maria ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Maurelli Giovanna ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Louzada Iara da Rocha ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Viana Inamara ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Franco Jessica Vaz ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Assis Laura Nogueira de ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Ribeiro Silvana Maria ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Saúde Pública
Published: December 2018

Essa publicação relata as Histórias da Horta da Faculdade de Saúde Pública nos últimos cinco anos, desde sua concepção em 2013, na intenção de divulgar essa iniciativa para a comunidade acadêmica da Universidade de São Paulo e outras instituições. As autoras registraram as atividades realizadas, organizaram os materiais produzidos e coletaram depoimentos. Contaram com as experiências, compartilhamentos, as motivações (por quê? para quê?) e os princípios (como?) dos participantes, ações que têm fundamentado as atividades dirigidas a esse campus da Universidade de São Paulo, proporcionando contornos especiais a esse projeto de agricultura urbana que pretende aproximar as pessoas das questões relacionadas com a produção de alimentos.
Current Use of Hearts From Hepatitis C Viremic Donors
Authors: Moayedi Yasbanoo , Fan Chun Po S. , Gulamhusein Aliya F. , Manlhiot Cedric , Ross Heather J. , Teuteberg Jeffrey J. , Khush Kiran K.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Strategies to improve donor heart utilization are required in the setting of limited donor availability. One innovative strategy is to consider the use of hepatitis C viremic (HCV) nucleic acid amplification test positive donors in hepatitis C-negative recipients, given the availability of highly effective direct acting antiviral agents. We utilized United Network for Organ Sharing data to evaluate the geographic distribution, clinical characteristics, and post-transplant outcomes of HCV+ donor hearts.

Methods and Results:

The United Network for Organ Sharing registry was queried for all HCV+ recovered donors and those considered for heart donation classified by sex, age group, United Network for Organ Sharing region, and cause of death from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2017. Propensity score matching (3:1) was applied to the recipients based on the index for mortality prediction after cardiac transplantation score and donor risk index. A total of 1306 HCV+ donors were recovered from 2014 to 2017 of whom 1078 (82.5%) were 18 to 49 and predominantly from the Appalachia region (United Network for Organ Sharing regions 2, 3, and 11). A total of 64 (5%) HCV+ donor hearts were transplanted in this interval. The match-adjusted risk difference in survival was estimated to be 0.87% (
P
=0.83) at 12 months.

Conclusions:

To meet the demands of heart transplantation, we must consider additional strategies to expand the donor pool. From 2014 to 2017, despite availability of highly effective direct acting antiviral therapy, only 5% of HCV+ donor hearts were accepted for transplantation. National efforts may be required to capitalize on this resource while we continue to carefully monitor the safety of this novel approach.
Pulmonary Vein Ganglia Are Remodeled in the Diabetic Heart
Authors: Bassil Guillaume , Chang Mengmeng , Pauza Audrys , Diaz Vera Jesus , Tsalatsanis Athanasios , Lindsey Bruce G. , Noujaim Sami F.
Published: December 2018

Background

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy is thought to cause adverse cardiovascular effects in diabetes mellitus. Pulmonary vein ganglia (
PVG
), which have been implicated in normal and abnormal heart rhythm regulation, have not been fully investigated in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D). We examined the functional and anatomical effects of T1D on
PVG
and studied the details of T1D‐induced remodeling on the
PVG
structure and function.

Methods and Results

We used a mouse model of T1D (Akita mouse), immunofluorescence, isolated Langendorff‐perfused hearts, and mathematical simulations to explore the effects of T1D on
PVG
. Whole‐mount atrial immunofluorescence of choline acetyltransferase and tyrosine hydroxylase labeling showed that sympathetic and parasympathetic somas of the
PVG
neurons were significantly hypotrophied in T1D hearts versus wild type. Stimulation of
PVG
in isolated Langendorff‐perfused hearts caused more pronounced P‐P interval prolongation in
wild type
compared with Akita hearts. Propranolol resulted in a comparable P‐P prolongation in both phenotypes, and atropine led to more pronounced P‐P interval shortening in
wild type
compared with Akita hearts. Numerical modeling using network simulations revealed that a decrease in the sympathetic and parasympathetic activities of
PVG
in T1D could explain the experimental results.

Conclusions

T1D leads to
PVG
remodeling with hypotrophy of sympathetic and parasympathetic cell bodies and a concomitant decrease in the
PVG
sympathetic and parasympathetic activities.
Association of Volumetric Epicardial Adipose Tissue Quantification and Cardiac Structure and Function
Authors: Nerlekar Nitesh , Muthalaly Rahul G. , Wong Nathan , Thakur Udit , Wong Dennis T. L. , Brown Adam J. , Marwick Thomas H.
Published: December 2018

Background

Epicardial adipose tissue (
EAT
) is in immediate apposition to the underlying myocardium and, therefore, has the potential to influence myocardial systolic and diastolic function or myocardial geometry, through paracrine or compressive mechanical effects. We aimed to review the association between volumetric
EAT
and markers of myocardial function and geometry.

Methods and Results

PubMed, Medline, and Embase were searched from inception to May 2018. Studies were included only if complete
EAT
volume or mass was reported and related to a measure of myocardial function and/or geometry. Meta‐analysis and meta‐regression were used to evaluate the weighted mean difference of
EAT
in patients with and without diastolic dysfunction. Heterogeneity of data reporting precluded meta‐analysis for systolic and geometric associations. In the 22 studies included in the analysis, there was a significant correlation with increasing
EAT
and presence of diastolic dysfunction and mean e′ (average mitral annular tissue Doppler velocity) and E/e′ (early inflow / annular velocity ratio) but not E/A (ratio of peak early (E) and late (A) transmitral inflow velocities), independent of adiposity measures. There was a greater
EAT
in patients with diastolic dysfunction (weighted mean difference, 24.43 mL; 95% confidence interval, 18.5–30.4 mL;
P
<0.001), and meta‐regression confirmed the association of increasing
EAT
with diastolic dysfunction (
P
=0.001). Reported associations of increasing
EAT
with increasing left ventricular mass and the inverse correlation of
EAT
with left ventricular ejection fraction were inconsistent, and not independent from other adiposity measures.

Conclusions

EAT
is associated with diastolic function, independent of other influential variables.
EAT
is an effect modifier for chamber size but not systolic function.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Brain Health: Impact on Long‐Range Cortical Connections and Cognitive Performance
Authors: Marebwa Barbara K. , Adams Robert J. , Magwood Gayenell S. , Basilakos Alexandra , Mueller Martina , Rorden Chris , Fridriksson Julius , Bonilha Leonardo
Published: December 2018

Background

Cardiovascular risk factor burden in the absence of clinical or radiological “events” is associated with mild cognitive impairment. Magnetic resonance imaging techniques exploring the integrity of neuronal fiber connectivity within white matter networks supporting cognitive processing could be used to measure the impact of cardiovascular disease on brain health and be used beyond bedside neuropsychological tests to detect subclinical changes and select or stratify participants for entry into clinical trials.

Methods and Results

We assessed the relationship between verbal
IQ
and brain network integrity and the effect of cardiovascular risk factors on network integrity by constructing whole‐brain structural connectomes from magnetic resonance imaging diffusion images (N=60) from people with various degrees of cardiovascular risk factor burden. We measured axonal integrity by calculating network density and determined the effect of fiber loss on network topology and efficiency, using graph theory. Multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the relationship between cardiovascular risk factor burden, physical activity, age, education, white matter integrity, and verbal
IQ
. Reduced network density, resulting from a disproportionate loss of long‐range white matter fibers, was associated with white matter network fragmentation (
r
=−0.52,
P
<10
−4
), lower global efficiency (
r
=0.91,
P
<10
−20
), and decreased verbal
IQ
(adjusted
R
2
=0.23,
P
<10
−4
).

Conclusions

Cardiovascular risk factors may mediate negative effects on brain health via loss of energy‐dependent long‐range white matter fibers, which in turn leads to disruption of the topological organization of the white matter networks, lowered efficiency, and reduced cognitive function.
“It's Like They Forget That the Word ‘Health’ Is in ‘Home Health Aide’”: Understanding the Perspectives of Home Care Workers Who Care for Adults With Heart Failure
Authors: Sterling Madeline R. , Silva Ariel F. , Leung Peggy B. K. , Shaw Amy L. , Tsui Emma K. , Jones Christine D. , Robbins Laura , Escamilla Yanira , Lee Ann , Wiggins Faith , Sadler Frances , Shapiro Martin F. , Charlson Mary E. , Kern Lisa M. , Safford Monika M.
Published: December 2018

Background

Home care workers (
HCW
s) increasingly provide long‐term and posthospitalization care for community‐dwelling adults with heart failure (
HF
). They observe, assist, and advise these patients, yet few studies have examined their role in
HF
. As the foundation for future interventions, we sought to understand the perspectives of
HCW
s caring for adults with
HF
.

Methods and Results

We conducted 8 focus groups in partnership with the Home Care Industry Education Fund, a benefit fund of the 1199 Service Employees International Union United Healthcare Workers East, the largest healthcare union in the United States. English‐ and Spanish‐speaking
HCW
s with
HF
clients were eligible to participate. Data were analyzed thematically. Forty‐six
HCW
s employed by 21 unique home care agencies participated. General and
HF
‐specific themes emerged. Generally,
HCW
s (1) feel overworked and undervalued; (2) find communication and care to be fragmented; (3) are dedicated to clients and families but are caught in the middle; and, despite this, (4) love their job. With respect to
HF
,
HCW
s (1) find it frightening and unpredictable; (2) are involved in
HF
self‐care without any
HF
training; and (3) find the care plan problematic.

Conclusions

Although frequently involved in
HF
self‐care, most
HCW
s have not received
HF
training. In addition, many felt poorly supported by other healthcare providers and the care plan, especially when their clients’ symptoms worsened. Interventions that provide
HF
‐specific training and aim to improve communication between members of the home health care team may enhance
HCW
s’ ability to care for adults with
HF
and potentially lead to better patient outcomes.
Dynamic Threat Processing
Authors: Meyer Christian , Padmala Srikanth , Pessoa Luiz
Published: December 2018

During real-life situations, multiple factors interact dynamically to determine threat level. In the current fMRI study involving healthy adult human volunteers, we investigated interactions between proximity, direction (approach vs. retreat), and speed during a dynamic threat-of-shock paradigm. As a measure of threat-evoked physiological arousal, skin conductance responses were recorded during fMRI scanning. Some brain regions tracked individual threat-related factors, and others were also sensitive to combinations of these variables. In particular, signals in the anterior insula tracked the interaction between proximity and direction where approach versus retreat responses were stronger when threat was closer compared with farther. A parallel proximity-by-direction interaction was also observed in physiological skin conductance responses. In the right amygdala, we observed a proximity by direction interaction, but intriguingly in the opposite direction as the anterior insula; retreat versus approach responses were stronger when threat was closer compared with farther. In the right bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, we observed an effect of threat proximity, whereas in the right periaqueductal gray/midbrain we observed an effect of threat direction and a proximity by direction by speed interaction (the latter was detected in exploratory analyses but not in a voxelwise fashion). Together, our study refines our understanding of the brain mechanisms involved during aversive anticipation in the human brain. Importantly, it emphasizes that threat processing should be understood in a manner that is both context-sensitive and dynamic.
Beyond databases
Authors: Ingalls Dana
Published: December 2018

Students majoring in Dietetics have somewhat different information literacy (IL) requirements than do students in other disciplines. To meet this need, an IL workshop tailored for them, incorporating the IL Framework for Higher Education, was offered in two successive years, and pre- and post- assessment was conducted. Data from the assessment showed is the workshop to be successful in increasing students’ knowledge of and ability to apply IL skills, as scores rose significantly in both years’ cohorts. This study presents a novel approach to IL instruction for a specific user group and discusses how to integrate the Framework into undergraduate instruction.
Source evaluation behaviours of first-year university students
Authors: Silva Elise , Green Jessica , Walker Cole
Published: December 2018

Researchers at Brigham Young University studied first-year students’ information evaluation behaviours of open-access, popular news-based, non-academic source material on a variety of subjects. Using think-aloud protocols and screen-recording, researchers coded most and least used evaluation behaviours. Students most used an article’s sources, previous experience with the source or subject matter, or a bias judgement to decide whether the source was reliable. Researchers also compared what students said was important when evaluating information vs. what behaviours students actually exhibited and found significant differences between the two. Namely, students did not think their previous experience or bias judgement affected the way they assessed sources; however, both behaviours played prominently in their observed source evaluation techniques across the study.
Two new Xeromphalina (Mycenaceae, Agaricales) species with eccentric stipes from subtropical China
Authors: LIU LI-NA , BAU TOLGOR
Published: December 2018

Two new Xeromphalina species with eccentric stipes are described from subtropical China. Xeromphalina brevipes sp. nov. is characterized by a pileus without a depressed centre, a rather short stipe, cylindrical basidiospores, and subcoralloid to coralloid circumcystidia and caulocystidia. Xeromphalina utricularis sp. nov. can be distinguished by its small and cylindrical basidiospores, utriform cystidia and its growth habit on rotten Pinus densata Mast. wood in the montane zone. Photographs and illustrations of the basidiomata and morphological features of these species are presented. Morphological characters, when compared with related Xeromphalina species, and phylogenetic analyses based on internal transcribed spacer sequences with Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference, demonstrate that the two new taxa are different from related Xeromphalina species.
Description of Halichoeres rubrovirens, a new species of wrasse (Labridae: Perciformes) from the Trindade and Martin Vaz Island group, southeastern Brazil, with a preliminary mtDNA molecular phylogeny of New World Halichoeres
Authors: ROCHA LUIZ A. , PINHEIRO HUDSON T. , GASPARINI JOÃO LUIZ
Published: December 2018

Here we describe Halichoeres rubrovirens, sp. n., endemic to Trindade and Martin Vaz Islands, off southeastern Brazil. The new species has unique color pattern, morphology and genetics. It can be easily distinguished from its Atlantic congeners by its color pattern consisting of a green body with two broad dotted reddish stripes. A preliminary mtDNA phylogeny indicates that H. rubrovirens closest relative is in the tropical Eastern Pacific. Hence, we hypothesize that H. rubrovirens once had a wide distribution in the western Atlantic but currently consists of a relict species restricted to Trindade and Martin Vaz islands. Little is know about its biology and ecology, but juveniles seem to school with and mimic Thalassoma noronhanum, which they resemble in color.
Nucleus patterns of zoea I larvae (Crustacea: Decapoda) in the context of taxonomy
Authors: MEYER ROLAND , MARTIN JANA , MELZER ROLAND R.
Published: December 2018

Using DAPI as a nucleus marker, we studied zoeas of 6 decapods (Palaemon adspersus Rathke, 1837; Palaemon elegans Rathke, 1837; Porcellana platycheles (Pennant, 1777); Pisidia longicornis (Linnaeus, 1767); Xantho hydrophilus (Herbst, 1780) Xantho pilipes A. Milne Edwards, 1867) representing one species pair of Palaemonidae (Caridea), Porcellanidae (Anomura) and Xanthidae (Brachyura) each, with special reference to the telson, and correlated our observations with the general morphological features of the zoeas. The different taxa exhibit specific features with respect to the distribution of nuclei, the patterns they exhibit, their size, density and numbers, thus being sets of characters potentially useful for taxonomic descriptions and diagnoses especially on the “above-species”-level. We discuss how nuclear patterns and classical morphological and/or morphogenetical features normally examined in zoeal larvae are related, and give some ideas on how “nucleus”characters can contribute to taxonomic descriptions.
New records of marine fishes illustrate the biogeographic importance of Christmas Island, Indian Ocean
Authors: HOBBS JEAN-PAUL A. , AYLING ANTHONY M. , CHOAT J. HOWARD , GILLIGAN JUSTIN J. , MCDONALD CHRISTIAN A. , NEILSON JOSEPH , NEWMAN STEPHEN J.
Published: December 2018

Christmas Island is situated in the tropical eastern Indian Ocean on a biogeographic border where Indian and Pacific Ocean faunas meet. Detailed field studies in 2004, 2007 and 2008, of the island’s fish fauna revealed 30 new records from 15 families. For six families (Dasyatidae, Chanidae, Bramidae, Mugilidae, Siganidae, Molidae) this is the first time a species has been recorded at Christmas Island. Many of the newly recorded fishes appear to have recently colonised the island, and establishing populations will be dependent on the availability of suitable habitat and conspecific mates. These new records illustrate that Christmas Island is important for range expansion because it serves as a critical stepping-stone in the dispersal of Pacific Ocean species into the Indian Ocean and vice versa. Contact between Indian and Pacific Ocean sister species has also resulted in hybridisation at Christmas Island.
Species of the Genus Thrips (Thysanoptera, Thripidae) from the Afro-tropical Region
Authors: MOUND LAURENCE A.
Published: December 2018

An illustrated key is provided to distinguish the 34 species of genus Thrips reported from the Afrotropical Region, including La Réunion. Seven new synonyms are established as a result of checking type specimens; two new species are described, T. solari from Nigeria and T. kurahashii from South Africa; and the new combination Craspedothrips ghesquierei (Priesner) is established for a species described in Taeniothrips. A diagnosis is given for each species with an indication of the known distribution.