bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soybean Milk Inhibits Absorption and Intestinal Transmembrane Transport of Gegen in Rats
Authors: Ling Xiao , Xiang Yuqiang , Tang Qingfa , Jin Zhen , Chen Feilong , Tan Xiaomei
Published: August 2017

Puerariae Lobatae Radix, known as Gegen in Chinese, is widely used to treat cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and many other chronic illnesses. Flavonoids are the main active components in Gegen and are found in high concentrations in soybeans. Few studies, however, have focused on the effects of flavonoid‐rich food on the absorption of Gegen. Here, we report an in vivo pharmacokinetic study on rats to explore the effects of soybean milk on the absorption of Gegen and an in vitro Ussing chamber study of puerarin intestinal transmembrane absorption. Area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC0–t) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) values of puerarin in rats were significantly decreased after drinking soybean milk, when taking Gegen decoction or a Gegen patent medicine (P < 0.01). In the Ussing chamber experiment, cumulative transmission (Qtn) after 2 h and apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) were lower in the puerarin‐daidzin and puerarin‐soybean milk solution groups than in the puerarin group. Daidzin in soybean milk inhibited the transmembrane transport of puerarin, resulting in decreased bioavailability of puerarin in Gegen. The results of this study strongly suggest that Gegen should not be taken with flavonoid‐rich food, particularly soybean products.
Successful Vaginal Delivery of Naturally Conceived Dicavitary Twin in Didelphys Uterus: A Rare Reported Case
Authors: Al Yaqoubi Houda Nasser , Fatema Nishat
Published: August 2017

Didelphys uterus, or double uterus, is an embryological developmental malformation of the müllerian ducts with the incidence of approximately 8.3% of all müllerian duct abnormalities (MDAs). Didelphys uterus accompanying dicavitary twin gestation is encountered as a very rare entity with overall incidence of about 1 in 1,000,000. We report a rare case of didelphys uterus, diagnosed since her first pregnancy, and during her fourth pregnancy she conceived dicavitary twin naturally without any infertility treatment. Though, the pregnancy course was complicated by preterm labour at 34-week gestation and she delivered simultaneously both fetuses with the cephalic presentation by spontaneous vaginal delivery with good maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Wu‐Mei‐Wan Reduces Insulin Resistance via Inhibition of NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Yang Xueping , Li Lingli , Fang Ke , Dong Ruolan , Li Jingbin , Zhao Yan , Dong Hui , Yi Ping , Huang Zhaoyi , Chen Guang , Lu Fuer
Published: August 2017

Wu‐Mei‐Wan (WMW) is a Chinese herbal formula used to treat type 2 diabetes. In this study, we aimed to explore the effects and mechanisms of WMW on insulin resistance in HepG2 cells. HepG2 cells were pretreated with palmitate (0.25 mM) to impair the insulin signaling pathway. Then, they were treated with different doses of WMW‐containing medicated serum and stimulated with 100 nM insulin. Results showed that palmitate could reduce the glucose consumption rate in HepG2 cells and impair insulin signaling related to phosphorylation of insulin receptor (IR) and insulin receptor substrate‐1 (IRS‐1), thereby regulating the downstream signaling pathways. However, medicated serum of WMW restored impaired insulin signaling, upregulated the expression of phospho‐IR (pIR), phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase p85 subunit, phosphoprotein kinase B, and glucose transporter 4, and decreased IRS serine phosphorylation. In addition, it decreased the expression of interleukin‐1β and tumor necrosis factor‐α, which are the key proinflammatory cytokines involved in insulin resistance; besides, it reduced the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome. These results suggested that WMW could alleviate palmitate‐induced insulin resistance in HepG2 cells via inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome and reduction of proinflammatory cytokine production.
Performance Analysis of Secrecy Outage Probability for AF-Based Partial Relay Selection with Outdated Channel Estimates
Authors: Hwang Kyu-Sung
Published: August 2017

We study the secrecy outage probability of the amplify-and-forward (AF) relaying protocol, which consists of one source, one destination, multiple relays, and multiple eavesdroppers. In this system, the aim is to transmit the confidential messages from a source to a destination via the selected relay in presence of eavesdroppers. Moreover, partial relay selection scheme is utilized for relay selection based on outdated channel state information where only neighboring channel information (source-relays) is available and passive eavesdroppers are considered where a transmitter does not have any knowledge of eavesdroppers’ channels. Specifically, we offer the exact secrecy outage probability of the proposed system in a one-integral form as well as providing the asymptotic secrecy outage probability in a closed-form. Numerical examples are given to verify our provided analytical results for different system conditions.
A Nanomechanical Investigation of Engineered Bone Tissue Comparing Elastoplastic and Viscoelastoplastic Modeling
Authors: Boi Marco , Marchiori Gregorio , Sartori Maria , Salamanna Francesca , Graziani Gabriela , Russo Alessandro , Visani Andrea , Girolami Mauro , Fini Milena , Bianchi Michele
Published: August 2017

It is common practice to implement the elastoplastic Oliver and Pharr (OP) model to investigate the spatial and temporal variations of mechanical properties of engineered bone. However, the viscoelastoplastic (VEP) model may be preferred being envisaged to provide additional insights into the regeneration process, as it allows evaluating also the viscous content of bone tissue. In this work, the elastic modulus (ER), contact hardness (HC), hardness (H), and viscosity index (ηQ) of newly formed bone tissue regenerated at 4 and 12 weeks from the implantation of a macroporous hydroxyapatite scaffold in a rabbit femoral critical-size model were addressed and compared to the mechanical properties of preexisting bone. Indentation curves were fitted with both the OP and VEP models. The VEP model outlined a wider gap between the mechanical properties of native and regenerated tissue when compared to the OP model. In addition, the VEP model indicated an increase of the viscosity index from 4 to 12 weeks, supporting the evidence of a still active regeneration process. The reported results confirmed the higher ability of VEP model compared to the more diffused OP model to provide important insights into bone mechanical properties, also during the bone regeneration process.
Design and Test of Portable Hyperspectral Imaging Spectrometer
Authors: Zou Chunbo , Yang Jianfeng , Wu Dengshan , Zhao Qiang , Gan Yuquan , Fu Di , Yang Fanchao , Liu Hong , Bai Qinglan , Hu Bingliang
Published: August 2017

We design and implement a portable hyperspectral imaging spectrometer, which has high spectral resolution, high spatial resolution, small volume, and low weight. The flight test has been conducted, and the hyperspectral images are acquired successfully. To achieve high performance, small volume, and regular appearance, an improved Dyson structure is designed and used in the hyperspectral imaging spectrometer. The hyperspectral imaging spectrometer is suitable for the small platform such as CubeSat and UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle), and it is also convenient to use for hyperspectral imaging acquiring in the laboratory and the field.
Convergence of a Logistic Type Ultradiscrete Model
Authors: Sekiguchi Masaki , Ishiwata Emiko , Nakata Yukihiko
Published: August 2017

We derive a piecewise linear difference equation from logistic equations with time delay by ultradiscretization. The logistic equation that we consider in this paper has been shown to be globally stable in the continuous and discrete time formulations. Here, we study if ultradiscretization preserves the global stability property, analyzing the asymptotic behaviour of the obtained piecewise linear difference equation. It is shown that our piecewise linear difference equation has a threshold property concerning global attractivity of equilibria, similar to the stable logistic equations with time delay.
Influences of 27-Gauge Vitrectomy on Corneal Topographic Conditions
Authors: Hirashima Takafumi , Utsumi Takao , Hirose Miou , Oh Hideyasu
Published: August 2017

Purpose. To evaluate the influences of 27-gauge vitrectomy on corneal topographic conditions.Method. Fifty-six eyes of 56 patients undergoing 27-gauge vitrectomy were retrospectively studied. Twenty-three eyes with epiretinal membrane (ERM), 23 eyes with macular hole (MH), and 10 eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) were included. Forty-five of the 56 eyes underwent 27-gauge phacovitrectomy (group 1), and the remaining 11 eyes underwent 27-gauge vitrectomy alone (group 2). Corneal topography was obtained with a wave-front analyzer preoperatively and at 1 and 3 months postoperatively. The corneal topographic parameters evaluated were the average corneal power, regular astigmatism, spherical aberration, and higher-order aberration (HOA).Results. In between-group analyses of groups 1 and 2, no significant differences were observed regarding the changes of the 4 parameters from the baseline to 1 and 3 months postoperatively. No significant differences in the changes of all parameters from the baseline to 1 and 3 months postoperatively were also observed between MH group and the other two groups. A significant difference in the change of HOA from the baseline to 1 month postoperatively was observed between ERM and PDR group however, the difference disappeared at 3 months.Conclusion. 27-gauge vitrectomy did not induce substantial changes in the corneal topographic conditions.
Dynamics of a Fractional Order HIV Infection Model with Specific Functional Response and Cure Rate
Authors: Boukhouima Adnane , Hattaf Khalid , Yousfi Noura
Published: August 2017

We propose a fractional order model in this paper to describe the dynamics of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. In the model, the infection transmission process is modeled by a specific functional response. First, we show that the model is mathematically and biologically well posed. Second, the local and global stabilities of the equilibria are investigated. Finally, some numerical simulations are presented in order to illustrate our theoretical results.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Management for Oriental Cholangiohepatitis: A Case Report and a Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Aloreidi Khalil , Sethi Prince , Yeager Terry , Atiq Muslim
Published: August 2017

Oriental cholangiohepatitis (OCH) is a disease characterized by intrabiliary pigment stone formation, resulting in recurrent bouts of cholangitis. OCH is found mostly in Southeast Asia but it is occasionally recognized in Western societies. OCH etiology is largely unknown. We report our experience with a patient who presented with acute cholecystitis. Following laparoscopic cholecystectomy, she developed acute cholangitis due to multiple biliary tree stones. She underwent ERCP to clear the stones from common bile duct. For the intrahepatic stones, she underwent novel hybrid percutaneous endoscopic technique. The procedure resulted in complete clearance of biliary tree stones and resolution of her symptoms. The aim of this case is to increase awareness of this disease when patients from endemic areas present with biliary stones.
Fatal Cobalt Toxicity after a Non-Metal-on-Metal Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Peters Rinne M. , Willemse Pax , Rijk Paul C. , Hoogendoorn Mels , Zijlstra Wierd P.
Published: August 2017

This case illustrates the potential for systemic cobalt toxicity in non-metal-on-metal bearings and its potentially devastating consequences. We present a 71-year-old male with grinding sensations in his right hip following ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty (THA). After diagnosing a fractured ceramic liner, the hip prosthesis was revised into a metal-on-polyethylene bearing. At one year postoperatively, X-rays and MARS-MRI showed a fixed reversed hybrid THA, with periarticular densities, flattening of the femoral head component, and a pattern of periarticular metal wear debris and pseudotumor formation. Before revision could take place, the patient was admitted with the clinical picture of systemic cobalt toxicity, supported by excessively high serum cobalt and chromium levels, and ultimately died. At autopsy dilated cardiomyopathy as cause of death was hypothesized. A third body wear reaction between ceramic remnants and the metal femoral head very likely led to excessive metal wear, which contributed systemic cobalt toxicity leading to neurotoxicity and heart failure. This case emphasizes that fractured ceramic-on-ceramic bearings should be revised to ceramic-on-ceramic or ceramic-on-polyethylene bearings, but not to metal-on-polyethylene bearings. We aim to increase awareness among orthopedic surgeons for clinical clues for systemic cobalt intoxication, even when there is no metal-on-metal bearing surface.
Pubic Hair Shaving Is Correlated to Vulvar Dysplasia and Inflammation: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Schild-Suhren Meike , Soliman Amr A. , Malik Eduard
Published: August 2017

Objective. The risk factors for vulvar dysplasia and infections are not fully known. In this study, we aimed to investigate the correlation between pubic hair shaving and the occurrence of vulvar inflammation, dysplasia, and cancer. Methods. This study was performed between January 2013 and December 2016 in which a standardized questionnaire concerning genital hair shaving was administered to vulvar dysplasia and cancer patients and healthy participants. The presence of human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and the occurrence of genital inflammation were documented. Results. We recruited 49 patients with vulvar dysplasia or cancer and 234 healthy women as a control group. Smoking, HPV infection, genital inflammation, and complete pubic hair removal were significantly more common in the vulvar dysplasia/cancer group. Pubic hair shaving per se presented a clear association with vulvar dysplasia/cancer. Shaving the labia majora in particular showed also an association. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that partial or complete pubic hair shaving using a razor is correlated with and could be a potential risk factor for the development of genital inflammation, vulvar dysplasia, and malignancies. These results need to be confirmed in larger studies. HPV status and genital inflammation should be documented by medical personnel.
Assessment of Safety and Functional Efficacy of Stem Cell-Based Therapeutic Approaches Using Retinal Degenerative Animal Models
Authors: Lin Tai-Chi , Seiler Magdalene J. , Zhu Danhong , Falabella Paulo , Hinton David R. , Clegg Dennis O. , Humayun Mark S. , Thomas Biju B.
Published: August 2017

Dysfunction and death of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and or photoreceptors can lead to irreversible vision loss. The eye represents an ideal microenvironment for stem cell-based therapy. It is considered an “immune privileged” site, and the number of cells needed for therapy is relatively low for the area of focused vision (macula). Further, surgical placement of stem cell-derived grafts (RPE, retinal progenitors, and photoreceptor precursors) into the vitreous cavity or subretinal space has been well established. For preclinical tests, assessments of stem cell-derived graft survival and functionality are conducted in animal models by various noninvasive approaches and imaging modalities.In vivoexperiments conducted in animal models based on replacing photoreceptors and/or RPE cells have shown survival and functionality of the transplanted cells, rescue of the host retina, and improvement of visual function. Based on the positive results obtained from these animal experiments, human clinical trials are being initiated. Despite such progress in stem cell research, ethical, regulatory, safety, and technical difficulties still remain a challenge for the transformation of this technique into a standard clinical approach. In this review, the current status of preclinical safety and efficacy studies for retinal cell replacement therapies conducted in animal models will be discussed.
The Effects of Physiological Biomechanical Loading on Intradiscal Pressure and Annulus Stress in Lumbar Spine: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Zahari Siti Nurfaezah , Latif Mohd Juzaila Abd , Rahim Nor Raihanah Abdull , Kadir Mohammed Rafiq Abdul , Kamarul Tunku
Published: August 2017

The present study was conducted to examine the effects of body weight on intradiscal pressure (IDP) and annulus stress of intervertebral discs at lumbar spine. Three-dimensional finite element model of osseoligamentous lumbar spine was developed subjected to follower load of 500 N, 800 N, and 1200 N which represent the loads for individuals who are normal and overweight with the pure moments at 7.5 Nm in flexion and extension motions. It was observed that the maximum IDP was 1.26 MPa at L1-L2 vertebral segment. However, the highest increment of IDP was found at L4-L5 segment where the IDP was increased to 30% in flexion and it was more severe at extension motion reaching to 80%. Furthermore, the maximum annulus stress also occurred at the L1-L2 segment with 3.9 MPa in extension motion. However, the highest increment was also found at L4-L5 where the annulus stress increased to 17% in extension motion. Based on these results, the increase of physiological loading could be an important factor to the increment of intradiscal pressure and annulus fibrosis stress at all intervertebral discs at the lumbar spine which may lead to early intervertebral disc damage.
Comparison of Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of Flavonoid‐Rich Common and Tartary Buckwheat Sprout Extracts in Lipopolysaccharide‐Stimulated RAW 264.7 and Peritoneal Macrophages
Authors: Nam Tae Gyu , Lim Tae-Gyu , Lee Bong Han , Lim Sol , Kang Hee , Eom Seok Hyun , Yoo Miyoung , Jang Hae Won , Kim Dae-Ok
Published: August 2017

Buckwheat sprouts have been widely consumed all around world due to their great abundance of bioactive compounds. In this study, the anti‐inflammatory effects of flavonoid‐rich common buckwheat sprout (CBS) and tartary buckwheat sprout (TBS) extracts were evaluated in lipopolysaccharide‐ (LPS‐) stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophages and primary peritoneal macrophages from male BALB/c mice. Based on the reversed‐phase HPLC analysis, the major flavonoids in CBS were determined to be C‐glycosylflavones (orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, and isovitexin), quercetin‐3‐O‐robinobioside, and rutin, whereas TBS contained only high amounts of rutin. The TBS extract exhibited higher inhibitory activity as assessed by the production of proinflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide and cytokines including tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐ (IL‐) 6, and IL‐12 in LPS‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages than CBS extract. In addition, TBS extract suppressed nuclear factor‐kappa B activation by preventing inhibitor kappa B‐alpha degradation and mitogen‐activated protein kinase phosphorylation in LPS‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Moreover, the TBS extract markedly reduced LPS‐induced cytokine production in peritoneal macrophages. Taken together, these findings suggest that TBS extract can be a potential source of anti‐inflammatory agents that may influence macrophage‐mediated inflammatory disorders.
Histological Evidence of the Osseointegration of Fractured Direct Metal Laser Sintering Implants Retrieved after 5 Years of Function
Authors: Mangano Francesco , Mangano Carlo , Piattelli Adriano , Iezzi Giovanna
Published: August 2017

Background. Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) is an additive manufacturing technique that allows the fabrication of dental implants layer by layer through the laser fusion of titanium microparticles. The surface of DMLS implants is characterized by a high open porosity with interconnected pores of different sizes; therefore, it has the potential to enhance and accelerate bone healing. To date, however, there are no histologic/histomorphometric studies in the literature evaluating the interface between bone and DMLS implants in the long-term. Purpose. To evaluate the interface between bone and DMLS implants retrieved after 5 years of functional loading. Methods. Two fractured DMLS implants were retrieved from the human jaws, using a 5 mm trephine bur. Both the implants were clinically stable and functioned regularly before fracture. The specimens were processed for histologic/histomorphometric evaluation; the bone-to-implant contact (BIC%) was calculated. Results. Compact, mature lamellar bone was found over most of the DMLS implants in close contact with the implant surface; the histomorphometric evaluation showed a mean BIC% of 66.1% (±4.5%). Conclusions. The present histologic/histomorphometric study showed that DMLS implants were well integrated in bone, after 5 years of loading, with the peri-implant bone undergoing continuous remodeling at the interface.
MET–GRB2 Signaling-Associated Complexes Correlate with Oncogenic MET Signaling and Sensitivity to MET Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Smith Matthew A. , Licata Thomas , Lakhani Aliya , Garcia Marileila Varella , Schildhaus Hans-Ulrich , Vuaroqueaux Vincent , Halmos Balazs , Borczuk Alain C. , Chen Y. Ann , Creelan Benjamin C. , Boyle Theresa A. , Haura Eric B.
Published: August 2017

Purpose: Targeting MET in cancer is hampered by lack of diagnostics that accurately reflect high MET signaling and dependence. We hypothesized that assays reflecting MET signaling associated protein complexes could redefine tumors dependent on MET and could add additional precision beyond genomic assessments.

Experimental Design: We used biochemical approaches, cellular viability studies, and proximity ligation assays to assess MET dependence. We examined MET signaling complexes in lung cancer patient specimens (N = 406) and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of solid tumors (N = 308). We evaluated response to crizotinib in a MET-amplified cohort of PDX models of lung cancer (N = 6) and provide a case report of a lung cancer patient harboring a Δexon14 MET splice variant.

Results: We found the interaction of MET with the adaptor protein GRB2 is necessary for oncogenic survival signaling by MET. MET-GRB2 complexes were identified only within MET-amplified PDX models and patient specimens but exhibit substantial variability. Lack of MET-GRB2 complexes was associated with lack of response to MET TKI in cell lines and PDX models. Presence of MET-GRB2 complexes can further subtype tumors with Δexon14 MET splice variants. Presence of these complexes correlated with response to crizotinib in one patient with Δexon14 MET lacking MET gene amplification.

Conclusions: Proximity assays measuring MET-GRB2 signaling complexes provide novel insights into MET-mediated signaling and could complement current clinical genomics-based assay platforms. Clin Cancer Res; 23(22); 7084–96. ©2017 AACR.
FOXD3 Regulates CSC Marker, DCLK1-S, and Invasive Potential: Prognostic Implications in Colon Cancer
Authors: Sarkar Shubhashish , O'Connell Malaney R. , Okugawa Yoshinaga , Lee Brian S. , Toiyama Yuji , Kusunoki Masato , Daboval Robert D. , Goel Ajay , Singh Pomila
Published: August 2017

The 5′ (α)-promoter of the human doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1) gene becomes epigenetically silenced during colon carcinogenesis, resulting in loss of expression of the canonical long(L)-isoform1 (DCLK1-L) in human colon adenocarcinomas (hCRCs). Instead, hCRCs express a short(S)-isoform2 (DCLK1-S) from an alternate (β)-promoter of DCLK1. The current study, examined if the transcriptional activity of the (β)-promoter is suppressed in normal versus cancerous cells. On the basis of in silico and molecular approaches, it was discovered that FOXD3 potently inhibits the transcriptional activity of the (β)-promoter. FOXD3 becomes methylated in human colon cancer cells (hCCC), with loss of FOXD3 expression, allowing expression of the DCLK1(S) variant in hCCCs/hCRCs. Relative levels of FOXD3/DCLK1(S/L) were measured in a cohort of CRC patient specimens (n = 92), in relation to overall survival (OS). Patients expressing high DCLK1(S), with or without low FOXD3, had significantly worse OS compared with patients expressing low DCLK1(S). The relative levels of DCLK1-L did not correlate with OS. In a pilot retrospective study, colon adenomas from high-risk patients (who developed CRCs in <15 years) demonstrated significantly higher staining for DCLK1(S) + significantly lower staining for FOXD3, compared with adenomas from low-risk patients (who remained free of CRCs). Latter results strongly suggest a prognostic value of measuring DCLK1(S)/FOXD3 in adenomas. Overexpression of DCLK1(S), but not DCLK1(L), caused a significant increase in the invasive potential of hCCCs, which may explain worse outcomes for patients with high DCLK1-S–expressing tumors. On the basis of these data, FOXD3 is a potent repressor of DCLK1-S expression in normal cells; loss of FOXD3 in hCCCs/hCRCs allows upregulation of DCLK1-S, imparting a potent invasive potential to the cells. Mol Cancer Res; 15(12); 1678–91. ©2017 AACR.
RETRACTED: Tobacco-Specific Carcinogens Induce Hypermethylation, DNA Adducts, and DNA Damage in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Jin Feng , Thaiparambil Jose , Donepudi Sri Ramya , Vantaku Venkatrao , Piyarathna Danthasinghe Waduge Badrajee , Maity Suman , Krishnapuram Rashmi , Putluri Vasanta , Gu Franklin , Purwaha Preeti , Bhowmik Salil Kumar , Ambati Chandrashekar R. , von Rundstedt Friedrich-Carl , Roghmann Florian , Berg Sebastian , Noldus Joachim , Rajapakshe Kimal , Gödde Daniel , Roth Stephan , Störkel Stephan , Degener Stephan , Michailidis George , Kaipparettu Benny Abraham , Karanam Balasubramanyam , Terris Martha K. , Kavuri Shyam M. , Lerner Seth P. , Kheradmand Farrah , Coarfa Cristian , Sreekumar Arun , Lotan Yair , El-Zein Randa , Putluri Nagireddy
Published: August 2017

Smoking is a major risk factor for the development of bladder cancer; however, the functional consequences of the carcinogens in tobacco smoke and bladder cancer–associated metabolic alterations remain poorly defined. We assessed the metabolic profiles in bladder cancer smokers and non-smokers and identified the key alterations in their metabolism. LC/MS and bioinformatic analysis were performed to determine the metabolome associated with bladder cancer smokers and were further validated in cell line models. Smokers with bladder cancer were found to have elevated levels of methylated metabolites, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, DNA adducts, and DNA damage. DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) expression was significantly higher in smokers than non-smokers with bladder cancer. An integromics approach, using multiple patient cohorts, revealed strong associations between smokers and high-grade bladder cancer. In vitro exposure to the tobacco smoke carcinogens, 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) led to increase in levels of methylated metabolites, DNA adducts, and extensive DNA damage in bladder cancer cells. Cotreatment of bladder cancer cells with these carcinogens and the methylation inhibitor 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine rewired the methylated metabolites, DNA adducts, and DNA damage. These findings were confirmed through the isotopic-labeled metabolic flux analysis. Screens using smoke-associated metabolites and DNA adducts could provide robust biomarkers and improve individual risk prediction in bladder cancer smokers. Noninvasive predictive biomarkers that can stratify the risk of developing bladder cancer in smokers could aid in early detection and treatment. Cancer Prev Res; 10(10); 588–97. ©2017 AACR.
Redescription of Potamonautes walderi (Colosi, 1924) from the lower Congo River basin in Central Africa (Brachyura, Potamoidea, Potamonautidae)
Authors: Cumberlidge Neil
Published: August 2017

Potamonautes walderi (Colosi, 1924), is redescribed from the lectotype and the male gonopods, abdomen, mouthparts, chelipeds, and sternum are illustrated. Photographs of the lectotype are provided and its distribution and conservation status is discussed. Potamonautes walderi is also compared to the other species of this genus that are found in the Congo River basin in Central Africa.
A new western Atlantic species of Collodes Stimpson (Decapoda, Brachyura, Inachoididae)
Authors: Santana William , Tavares Marcos
Published: August 2017

A new species of spider crab, Collodes tuerkayi n. sp., is described and illustrated from the Western Atlantic (Puerto Rico and northern Brazil). The new species superficially resembles C. inermis A. Milne-Edwards, 1878, in the general appearance of the body, but is distinguished by the details of the carapace, thoracic sternum and antennal ornamentation and the proportion of the pereopods.
Causal Pathways for Temperature Predictability from Snow Depth
Authors: Kolstad Erik W.
Published: August 2017

Dynamical subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) weather forecasting has made strides in recent years, thanks partly to better initialization and representation of physical variables in models. For instance, realistic initializations of snow and soil moisture in models yield enhanced temperature predictability on S2S time scales. Snow depth and soil moisture also mediate month-to-month persistence of near-surface air temperature. Here the role of snow depth as predictor of temperature one month ahead in the Northern Hemisphere is examined via two causal pathways. Through the first pathway, snow depth anomalies in month 1 persist into month 2 and are then linked to temperature anomalies through snow–temperature feedback mechanisms. The first pathway is active from fall to summer, and its effect peaks before the melting season: in winter in the low latitudes, in spring in the midlatitudes, and in early summer in the high latitudes. The second pathway, where snow depth anomalies in month 1 lead to soil moisture anomalies in month 2 (through melting), which are then linked to temperature anomalies in month 2 through soil moisture–temperature feedbacks, is most active in spring and summer. The effect of the second pathway peaks during the melting season, namely, later in the year than the first pathway. The latitudes of the highest mediated effect through both pathways follow a seasonal cycle, shifting northward along with the seasonal insolation cycle. In keeping with this seasonal cycle, the highest snow depth mediation occurs to the north and the highest soil moisture mediation to the south of the latitudes with the highest overall temperature predictability from snow depth.
Comparative Advantages and Demand in the New Competitive Ricardian Models
Authors: Cinquetti Carlos A.
Published: August 2017

We survey the new Ricardian models of bilateral trade, which are seen as tractable structure for multi-country trade models addressing either cost or demand linkages to trade. Cost-based Ricardian models advance new forms of comparative advantages that are irrespective of autarky price and, in some cases, even of opportunity cost. A less noticed feature is their reliance in demand function that does not disturb cost-based prices. Demand-based Ricardian models hinge especially on non-homothetic preferences for asymmetric goods and the supply-side ordering of goods mirrors the demand-side ordering. We also critically discuss extensions of these latter competitive models to trade in quality. We further seek to identify all these models vis-à-vis the Ricardo–Haberler–Deardorff tradition.

JEL: F10, 019, D5
Domestic Institutional Constraints, Veto Players, and Sanction Effectiveness
Authors: Jeong Jin Mun , Peksen Dursun
Published: August 2017

What effect do the domestic institutional constraints in target states have on sanction outcomes? Other than the narrow focus on political regime type, little is known about how the institutional makeup of target states might affect leaders’ ability to adjust their policies to defy sanctions. We assert that the size of veto players in targets is a crucial yet overlooked institutional factor in explaining sanction effectiveness. We contend that political leaders subject to the approval of multiple veto players are more likely to concede as they are less likely to develop polices to counter the sanctions. We assess the empirical merits of our theoretical claims by combining data on sanctions from the Threat and Imposition of Economic Sanctions data set with the veto points data from the Political Constraints data set. Results from the data analysis for the 1946 to 2005 period indicate that the size of veto players is a significant predictor of sanction success even when we control for political regime type and other major political and economic covariates of sanction effectiveness.
Wedding Reality TV Bites Black: Subordinating Ethnic Weddings in the South African Black Culture
Authors: Mbunyuza-Memani Lindani
Published: August 2017

Black South Africans generally celebrate two types of weddings, one white and the second ‘traditional.’ This article uses the political economy theory and draws from multimodal critical discourse analysis to examine the televisual representation of these two types of weddings. Analyzed here are 10 episodes of two South African wedding reality programs, Our Perfect Wedding and Top Billing Weddings. The analysis reveals that South African wedding reality television programs displace cultural diversity and stay within the strategy of reproducing sameness by dominantly focusing on white weddings. From this perspective, ‘traditional’ weddings are backgrounded. In addition, natural black hair is erased as the shows consistently feature brides with chemically processed or store-bought hair rather than the brides' own natural hair. This article argues that white weddings and White feminine looks are normalized as attractive, while blackness is either erased or represented as inferior.
Variability in Affect and Willingness to Take Medication
Authors: Fraenkel Liana , Stolar Marilyn , Bates Jonathan R. , Street Richard L. , Chowdhary Harjinder , Swift Sarah , Peters Ellen
Published: August 2017

Objective. To determine if 1) patients have distinct affective reaction patterns to medication information, and 2) whether there is an association between affective reaction patterns and willingness to take medication. Methods. We measured affect in real time as subjects listened to a description of benefits and side effects for a hypothetical new medication. Subjects moved a dial on a handheld response system to indicate how they were feeling from “Very Good” to “Very Bad”. Patterns of reactions were identified using a cluster-analytic statistical approach for multiple time series. Subjects subsequently rated their willingness to take the medication on a 7-point Likert scale. Associations between subjects’ willingness ratings and affect patterns were analyzed. Additional analyses were performed to explore the role of race/ethnicity regarding these associations. Results. Clusters of affective reactions emerged that could be classified into 4 patterns: “Moderate” positive reactions to benefits and negative reactions to side effects ( n = 186), “Pronounced” positive reactions to benefits and negative reactions to side effects ( n = 110), feeling consistently “Good” ( n = 58), and feeling consistently close to “Neutral” ( n = 33). Mean (standard error) willingness to take the medication was greater among subjects feeling consistently Good 4.72 (0.20) compared with those in the Moderate 3.76 (0.11), Pronounced 3.68 (0.14), and Neutral 3.62 (0.26) groups. Black subjects with a Pronounced pattern were less willing to take the medication compared with both Hispanic ( P = 0.0270) and White subjects ( P = 0.0001) with a Pronounced pattern. Conclusion. Patients’ affective reactions to information were clustered into specific patterns. Reactions varied by race/ethnicity and were associated with treatment willingness. Ultimately, a better understanding of how patients react to information may help providers develop improved methods of communication.
Comparison of the Effects of Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation With Platelet-Rich Plasma or Platelet-Rich Fibrin on Osteochondral Defects in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Maruyama Masahiro , Satake Hiroshi , Suzuki Tomoto , Honma Ryusuke , Naganuma Yasushi , Takakubo Yuya , Takagi Michiaki
Published: August 2017

Background:

Although osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT) provides satisfactory outcomes for osteochondral defects, for large defects OAT is often inadequate because of graft availability. Osteochondral allograft transplantation is an alternative treatment for large defects, but this approach is limited by graft storage constraints and carries disease transmission risks. Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) is a second-generation platelet concentrate, and its positive effect on articular cartilage has been reported. However, the effect of PRF with OAT of osteochondral defects is unknown.

Purpose:

To compare the effects of OAT with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and PRF on osteochondral defects in a rabbit model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Forty-two juvenile rabbits were divided into control, PRP, and PRF groups. In the control and PRP groups, a cylindrical osteochondral defect (5 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth) was created on the patellar groove, and an osteochondral graft (3.5 mm in diameter and 5 mm in length) harvested from the contralateral side was inserted into the distal portion of the defect. After wound closure, either normal saline or PRP was injected in the knee. In the PRF group, a PRF clot was placed in the defect before grafting. The surgical site was macroscopically and histologically assessed after 3 and 12 weeks.

Results:

At 3 weeks, the PRF group (n = 8) was macroscopically healed compared with the other 2 groups (control, n = 7; PRP, n = 6) ( P < .005). Histologically, osteochondral graft cartilage of the PRF group had normal cellularity and higher amounts of safranin O staining relative to the other 2 groups ( P < .005). At 12 weeks, all 3 groups (n = 8 per group) were macroscopically healed with normal or nearly normal cartilage, and osteochondral graft cartilage was histologically hyaline cartilage. In contrast, the PRF group healed with hyaline-like cartilage at nongrafted defects, whereas the other 2 groups healed with fibrocartilage ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

OAT with PRF maintained hyaline cartilage, and the nongrafted defect healed with hyaline-like cartilage.

Clinical Relevance:

PRF has the potential to improve clinical outcomes of OAT used to treat osteochondral lesions.
Advances in Sputum Analysis for Screening and Early Detection of Lung Cancer
Authors: Tockman Melvyn S.
Published: August 2017

Background

Screening for lung cancer using currently available techniques is not effective in reducing mortality from the disease.

Methods

Archived sputum specimens and clinical data linking specimens to lung cancer outcomes from prior screening programs have been reexamined to evaluate altered gene expressing, including specific oncogene activation and tumor suppressor gene deletion, as well as genomic instability and abnormal methylation.

Results

Several of these tests allow determination of a molecular diagnosis of cancer years before clinical presentation.

Conclusions

These sputum tests provide an impetus to reconsider screening for lung cancer. Prospective trials are required to confirm test performance characteristics, and management and intervention strategies must be developed that are appropriate to the stage at which lung cancer is diagnosed.
Thyroid Cancer: Extent of Thyroidectomy
Authors: Shaha Ashok R.
Published: August 2017

Background

Surgical resection is the key to management of thyroid cancer, but determining the optimal surgical procedure for individual cases has been controversial.

Methods

The author reviews several large data bases that allow examination of prognostic criteria for long-term outcomes.

Results

Patients can be classified into good- or poor-risk groups that assist defining the optimal surgical procedure. Routine use of total thyroidectomy in all patients with thyroid cancer is best avoided; however, patients with medullary cancer generally need total thyroidectomy.

Conclusions

The definition of risk groups has clarified the options regarding choice of primary surgical therapy for differentiated thyroid cancer.
Neoadjuvant Androgen Ablation in Localized Carcinoma of the Prostate
Authors: Kish Julie A.
Published: August 2017

Background

An increased awareness of prostate cancer has led to a rise in the detection of this disease at a clinically localized stage at presentation. This article discusses the role of neoadjuvant hormonal ablation at this earlier stage to decrease tumor bulk and thus enhance survival.

Method

Outcomes from each primary modality for localized treatment of prostate cancer with and without neoadjuvant androgen deprivation (NAAD) are reviewed.

Results

Survival benefit using NAAD has not yet been demonstrated from prostatectomy. Long-term hormonal deprivation provides an improved time to progression and has decreased distant metastatic and biochemical failure for poor-risk patients undergoing external-beam radiation. The toxicities of brachytherapy can be decreased with NAAD.

Conclusions

NAAD with radical prostatectomy is considered to be investigational. The duration of NAAD needs to be delineated for poor-prognosis patients who are treated with external-beam radiation therapy, but the approach improves the local toxicity of brachytherapy.
The Expanding Role of Epirubicin in the Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Glück Stefan
Published: August 2017

Adjuvant treatment of early breast cancer has experienced major changes in the last 25 years. Since the mid 1970s, when cyclophosphamide, methotrexate and fluorouracil (CMF) resulted in statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in disease-free and overall survival, the use of adjuvant chemotherapy has become common practice worldwide. Anthracyclines are considered to be among the most active available agents to treat breast cancer and have become core components of adjuvant regimens. Anthracycline-containing polychemotherapy regimens provide a significant benefit over CMF.

Regimens containing epirubicin are generally associated with prolongation in relapse-free and overall survival rates compared with standard therapies including CMF. Epirubicin-taxane combinations are active in treating metastatic breast cancer and do not appear to be associated with any pharmacokinetic interactions. Ongoing research is focusing on combining anthracyclines with taxanes in an effort to continue to improve outcomes following adjuvant therapy.
Celecoxib: A Specific COX-2 Inhibitor with Anticancer Properties
Authors: Koki Alane T. , Masferrer Jaime L.
Published: August 2017

In addition to the well-established pathophysiological role that COX-2 plays in inflammation, recent evidence implies that this isoform may also be involved in multiple biologic events throughout the tumorigenic process. Many epidemiological studies demonstrate that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce the risk of a wide range of tumors. Further, COX-2 is chronically overexpressed in many premalignant, malignant, and metastatic human cancers, and levels of overexpression have been shown to significantly correlate to invasiveness, prognosis, and survival in some cancers. Pharmacological studies consistently demonstrate that COX-2 inhibitors dose-dependently inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in various relevant animal models of cancer. Importantly, several investigators have also shown COX-2 inhibitors may act additively or synergistically with currently used cytotoxics and molecularly targeted agents. Here we present a broad overview of the growing evidence that COX-2 plays a pivotal role throughout oncogenesis and summarize the rationale to explore the use of COX-2 inhibitors for the prevention and/or treatment of cancer as a single agent or in combination with current anticancer modalities.
The Role of Religiosity in Dietary Beliefs and Behaviors among Urban African American Women
Authors: Holt Cheryl L. , Haire-Joshu Debra L. , Lukwago Susan N. , Lewellyn Laura A. , Kreuter Matthew W.
Published: August 2017

The relationship between religiosity and health has been investigated in many studies, with most finding positive associations. However, little is known about the role of religiosity in dietary factors, particularly among African American women. We used a self-administered questionnaire to examine the association between religiosity and dietary beliefs and behaviors among African American women. Women with strong religious beliefs and behaviors reported more interest in eating more fruits and vegetables, perceived their consumption as being more important, and consumed more fruits and vegetables than women low in religious beliefs and behaviors. These findings highlight the role of both religious beliefs and behaviors as they relate to diet-related beliefs and behaviors in this population.
The Role of Prevalence in the Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Delongchamps Nicolas B. , Singh Amar , Haas Gabriel P.
Published: August 2017

Background

The worldwide incidence of prostate cancer has been rising rapidly, likely due to intensified effort in early detection and screening. Intense effort is also directed at novel schemas of chemoprevention and therapy. Incidence data are insufficient to identify the true magnitude of prostate cancer in a given population. The true prevalence of prostate cancer must be identified.

Methods

We reviewed the latest worldwide epidemiologic data and clinical studies on prostate cancer studying the true prevalence of this disease.

Results

The incidence of prostate cancer is increasing worldwide, with strong variation among regions. Prevalence studies based on autopsy data have confirmed a high frequency of latent prostate cancer in men of all ages. More aggressive screening measures using a lower prostate-specific antigen (PSA) threshold, together with an increasing number of biopsies, have escalated the detection of these latent cancers.

Conclusions

Recent improvements in prostate cancer detection narrow the gap between the incidence and true prevalence of prostate cancer. This, however, raises concerns about the risk of over detection of latent cancers and thus identifying a need for improvement in screening strategies to better identify clinically significant disease.
Impacting Health Disparities through Community Outreach: Utilizing the CLEAN Look (Culture, Literacy, Education, Assessment, and Networking)
Authors: Meade Cathy D. , Menard Janelle , Martinez Dinorah , Calvo Arlene
Published: August 2017

Background

Community outreach programs are important vehicles for reducing the discovery-delivery disconnect by bringing cancer education and screening services directly to community members. Such programs are consistent with the priority areas of the Department of Health and Human Services’ initiatives for reducing health disparities by 2010, and they support the use of culturally, linguistically, and literacy-specific approaches for eliminating cancer health disparities.

Methods

This article reviews the important tenets of culture and literacy when developing community outreach programs for medically underserved populations, examines a health education empowerment model for community program planning, and describes the use of the CLEAN Look Checklist (in which CLEAN is an easy-to-remember mnemonic of culture, literacy, education, assessment, and networking) for identifying cues and strategies to achieve relevant outreach.

Results

This article illustrates the application of this approach with an example of outreach strategies for reaching at-risk Haitian American women in our community.

Conclusions

Meeting the challenge of a strong health disparities agenda requires integration of cultural and literacy considerations in outreach program, message, and intervention development. The use of a checklist may help clinicians, educators, and researchers create a sustainable model of community outreach guided by a paradigm that incorporates a multilevel approach to address cancer outcomes for disenfranchised populations.