bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haematological Profile and Intensity of Urogenital Schistosomiasis in Ghanaian Children
Authors: Afrifa Justice , Gyedu Desmond , Ofori Gyamerah Eric , Essien-Baidoo Samuel , Mensah-Essilfie Isaac
Published: June 2017

Background. Urogenital schistosomiasis is a widely contracted parasitic helminth infection often associated with haematological abnormalities.Aim. We investigated the relationship between the haematological profile and the intensity of schistosomiasis among children in the Yeji district.Materials and Methods. A total of 100 participants comprising 50Schistosoma haematobium(S. haematobium) infected and 50 noninfected controls aged 6–17 years matched for age and sex were recruited into the study. Blood and urine samples were collected and haematological profile and presence ofS. haematobiumeggs were assessed using standard protocols.Results. Haemoglobin (HGB) (P<0.0001), haematocrit (HCT) (P<0.0001), mean cell volume (MCV) (P=0.0053), mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) (P<0.0001), and mean cell haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) (P=0.005) levels were reduced in cases compared to controls. Mixed cell percentage (MXD) (P=0.018) and red blood cell distribution width (RDW-CV) (P=0.012) were significantly elevated among cases as compared to controls. Haematuria was a clinical characteristic of heavy infection.Conclusion.S. haematobiuminfection creates an imbalance in the haematological profile. We found low HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH, and MCHC levels coupled with increased % MXD count and RDW-CV. Also, low MCV, MCH, and MCHC and high % MXD count are independently associated withS. haematobiuminfection among our study participants.
Renoprotective Effect of the Shen-Yan-Fang-Shuai Formula by Inhibiting TNF-α/NF-κB Signaling Pathway in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Lv Jie , Wang Zhen , Wang Ying , Sun Weiwei , Zhou Jingwei , Wang Mengdi , Liu Wei Jing , Wang Yaoxian
Published: June 2017

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the leading cause of end-stage kidney disease, and satisfactory therapeutic strategies have not yet been established. The Shen-Yan-Fang-Shuai Formula (SYFSF) is a traditional Chinese formula composed of Astragali radix,Radixangelicae sinensis,Rheum officinaleBaill, and four other herbs. It has been widely used as an effective treatment for DKD patients in China. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying SYFSF’s renoprotection. In this study, we compared the protective effect of SYFSF to irbesartan on the histology and renal cells in type 2 DKD rat model and high-glucose (HG) cultured mesangial cells, respectively. We found that SYFSF could significantly decrease urinary albumin, cholesterol, and triglyceride. And a decrease in serum creatinine was also found in SYFSF-treated group compared with irbesartan-treated rats. In addition, SYFSF inhibited the interstitial expansion and glomerulosclerosis in diabetic rats. Notably, SYFSF markedly downregulated the expression of MCP-1, TGF-β1, collagen IV, and fibronectin in diabetic rat models and HG-induced mesangial cell models. The renoprotection was closely associated with a reduced expression of TNF-αand phosphorylated NF-κBp65. Our study suggests that SYFSF may ameliorate diabetic kidney injury. The observed renoprotection is probably attributable to an inhibition of inflammatory response and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation mediated by TNF-α/NF-κBp65 signaling pathway.
Repellent Effect and Insecticidal Activities ofBridelia ferruginea,Blighia sapida, andKhaya senegalensisLeaves Powders and Extracts againstDinoderus porcellusin Infested Dried Yam Chips
Authors: Loko Laura Yêyinou , Alagbe Obédatou , Dannon Elie A. , Datinon Benjamin , Orobiyi Azize , Thomas-Odjo Agnés , Dansi Alexandre , Tamò Manuele
Published: June 2017

Dinoderus porcellusis considered as the most important pest of stored yam chips and compounds extracted from plants can be used for its control. The present study aimed to test the insecticidal and repellent activities of powders and extracts of leaves ofBridelia ferruginea,Blighia sapida, andKhaya senegalensisagainstD. porcellus. The efficacy of plant powders was compared with the synthetic pesticide Antouka (Permethrin 3 g/kg + pirimiphos 16 g/kg). The results of the experiment revealed that all plant powders were effective as repellents. Antouka was more effective as insecticidal than the plant powders and minimal weight loss was observed withB. sapidaat 2%. Among treatments, propanol extract ofK. senegalensisat 5% was found to elicit the highest repellent effect onD. porcellus. The LC50results revealed that the acetone extract ofK. senegalensisis the most toxic (0.29 μL/insect) to the pest, while the propanol extract ofB. ferrugineaat 5% exhibited strong fumigant toxicity againstD. porcellus, with 88.89% of pest mortality at 160 μL/L air. The findings from the current work proved that plant powders and extracts of the three plants are sources of botanical insecticides which may be used in the integrated management ofD. porcellus.
Adrenal Ganglioneuroblastoma in Adults: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Benedini Stefano , Grassi Giorgia , Aresta Carmen , Tufano Antonietta , Carmignani Luca Fabio , Rubino Barbara , Luzi Livio , Corbetta Sabrina
Published: June 2017

Incidentally discovered adrenal masses are very common given the increased number of imaging studies performed in recent years. We here report a clinical case of a 20-year-old woman who presented with left flank pain. Ultrasound examination revealed a contralateral adrenal mass, which was confirmed at computed tomography (CT) scan. Hormonal hypersecretion was excluded. Given the size (11 × 10 × 7 cm) and the uncertain nature of the mass, it was surgically removed and sent for pathological analyses. Conclusive diagnosis was ganglioneuroblastoma. Ganglioneuroblastoma is an uncommon malignant tumor, extremely rare in adults, particularly in females. This neoplasm is frequently localized in adrenal gland.
Circular RNA Profiling and Bioinformatic Modeling Identify Its Regulatory Role in Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Guo Xing-Ya , He Chong-Xin , Wang Yu-Qin , Sun Chao , Li Guang-Ming , Su Qing , Pan Qin , Fan Jian-Gao
Published: June 2017

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) exhibit a wide range of physiological and pathological activities. To uncover their role in hepatic steatosis, we investigated the expression profile of circRNAs in HepG2-based hepatic steatosis induced by high-fat stimulation. Differentially expressed circRNAs were subjected to validation using QPCR and functional analyses using principal component analysis, hierarchical clustering, target prediction, gene ontology (GO), and pathway annotation, respectively. Bioinformatic integration established the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network so as to identify the mechanisms underlying circRNAs’ metabolic effect. Here we reported that hepatic steatosis was associated with a total of 357 circRNAs. Enrichment of transcription-related GOs, especially GO: 0006355, GO: 004589, GO: 0045944, GO: 0045892, and GO: 0000122, demonstrated their specific actions in transcriptional regulation. Lipin 1 (LPIN1) was recognized to mediate the transcriptional regulatory effect of circRNAs on metabolic pathways. circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network further identified the signaling cascade of circRNA_021412/miR-1972/LPIN1, which was characterized by decreased level of circRNA_021412 and miR-1972-based inhibition of LPIN1. LPIN1-induced downregulation of long chain acyl-CoA synthetases (ACSLs) expression finally resulted in the hepatosteatosis. These findings identify circRNAs to be important regulators of hepatic steatosis. Transcription-dependent modulation of metabolic pathways may underlie their effects, partially by the circRNA_021412/miR-1972/LPIN1 signaling.
Synthesis and Evaluation of In Vitro Antibacterial and Antitumor Activities of Novel N,N-Disubstituted Schiff Bases
Authors: Luo Heng , Xia Yu-fen , Sun Bao-fei , Huang Li-rong , Wang Xing-hui , Lou Hua-yong , Zhu Xu-hui , Pan Wei-dong , Zhang Xiao-dong
Published: June 2017

To get inside the properties of N,N-disubstituted Schiff bases, we synthesized three high-yielding benzaldehyde Schiff bases. We used the reaction between salicylaldehyde and different diamine compounds, including diamine, ethanediamine, and o-phenylenediamine, determining the structure of obtained molecules by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy. We thus evaluated the microbicidal and antitumor activity of these compounds, showing that salicylaldehyde-hydrazine hydrate Schiff base (compound 1a) significantly inhibited the growth of S. aureus; salicylaldehyde-o-phenylenediamine Schiff base (compound 1c) displayed a strong capability to inhibit the proliferation of leukemia cell lines K562 and HEL. Moreover, we observed that the antibacterial action of 1a might be associated with the regulation of the expression of key virulence genes in S. aureus. Compound 1c resulted in a strong apoptotic activity against leukemia cells, also affecting the cell cycle distribution. Overall, our novel N,N-disubstituted Schiff bases possess unique antibacterial or antitumor activities that exhibit the potent application prospect in prophylactic or therapeutic interventions, providing new insights for developing new antibacterial and anticancer chemical agents.
Optical Orbital Angular Momentum Demultiplexing and Channel Equalization by Using Equalizing Dammann Vortex Grating
Authors: Su Mingyang , Liu Junmin , He Yanliang , Chen Shuqing , Li Ying
Published: June 2017

A novel equalizing Dammann vortex grating (EDVG) is proposed as orbital angular momentum (OAM) multiplexer to realize OAM signal demultiplexing and channel equalization. The EDVG is designed by suppressing odd diffraction orders and adjusting the grating structure. The light intensity of diffraction is subsequently distributed evenly in the diffraction orders, and the total diffraction efficiency can be improved from 53.22% to 82%. By using the EDVG, OAM demultiplexing and channel equalization can be realized. Numerical simulation shows that the bit error rate (BER) of each OAM channel can decrease to 10-4 when the bit SNR is 22 dB, and the intensity is distributed over the necessary order of diffraction evenly.
FOXP3Allelic Variants and Haplotype Structures Are Associated with Aggressive Breast Cancer Subtypes
Authors: Banin Hirata Bruna Karina , Losi Guembarovski Roberta , Vitiello Glauco Akelinghton Freire , Guembarovski Alda Losi , Brajão de Oliveira Karen , Watanabe Maria Angelica Ehara
Published: June 2017

FOXP3genetic polymorphisms have been associated with cancer development and prognosis. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the g.10403A>G (rs2232365) polymorphisms and g.8048A>C (rs3761548), in aggressive breast cancer (BC) subtypes, including, Luminal B HER2+ (LB), HER2-enriched (HER2+), and triple-negative (TN). Polymerase chain reaction followed by enzymatic restriction was performed to genotyping 117 BC samples and 300 controls. A significant association of AA genotype (g.10403A>G) in relation to BC susceptibility (OR = 1.93; 95% CI = 1.01–3.66;p=0.046) was observed. The GG (g.10403A>G) genotype was correlated with higher proliferation index (Ki-67) in HER2+ subtype (τ = 0.47;p=0.019) and advanced TNM staging in TN (τ = 0.23;p=0.032). A correlation of AA genotype (g.8048A>C) with higher Ki-67 (τ = −0.47;p=0.018) and lower histological grade (τ = 0.39;p=0.026) in HER2+ was also found. GA haplotype was correlated with lower histological grade (τ = −0.15;p=0.009) and higher Ki-67 (τ = 0.43;p=0.036) in HER2+ and advanced staging in TN (τ = 0.29;p=0.044). On the other hand, AC haplotype was correlated with lower Ki-67 (τ = −0.54;p=0.005) and staging (τ = −0.29;p=0.027) in HER2+ and TN respectively. Results showed thatFOXP3influence regarding clinical outcome depends greatly on the BC subtype and indicated this transcription factor as a promising marker in aggressive BC subtypes.
Prolonged Survival of Subcutaneous Allogeneic Islet Graft by Donor Chimerism without Immunosuppressive Treatment
Authors: Hsu Brend Ray-Sea , Fu Shin-Huei , Wang Aline Yen Ling
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to investigate whether tolerance-induced protection of islets in the renal subcapsular space can also prevent subcutaneous allogeneic islets from being rejected. We used bone marrow stem cells from C57BL/6 (H2b) mice to construct donor chimerism in conditioned diabetic BALB/c (H2d) mice and investigated the effect of donor chimerism on engraftment and survival of subcutaneously transplanted allogeneic islets in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. We also studied the anti-inflammatory effect of mesenchymal stem cell on islet engraftment. Full but not low-grade or no donor chimerism was associated with successful engraftment of allogeneic islets and restoration of normoglycemia in the treated diabetic mice. The temporary hyperglycemia was 11 ± 1 versus 19 ± 5 days (p<0.05) for the mice with full donor chimerism with transplanted islets in the renal subcapsular space versus the subcutaneous space, respectively. Cotransplantation of mesenchymal stem cell did not enhance alloislet engraftment. Full multilineage donor chimerism was associated with a higher transient expansion of CD11b+ and Gr-1+ myeloid progenitor cells and effector memory CD4 and CD8 T cells. In conclusion, full donor chimerism protected both renal subcapsular and subcutaneous allogeneic islets in this rodent transplantation model.
Effective Permittivity of Biological Tissue: Comparison of Theoretical Model and Experiment
Authors: Gun Li , Ning Du , Liang Zhang
Published: June 2017

Permittivity of biological tissue is a critical issue for studying the biological effects of electromagnetic fields. Many theories and experiments were performed to measure or explain the permittivity characteristics in biological tissue. In this paper, we investigate the permittivity parameter in biological tissues via theoretical and experimental analysis. Firstly, we analyze the permittivity characteristic in tissue by using theories on composite material. Secondly, typical biological tissues, such as blood, fat, liver, and brain, are measured by HP4275A Multi‐Frequency LCR Meter within 10 kHz to 10 MHz. Thirdly, experimental results are compared with the Bottcher‐Bordewijk model, the Skipetrov equation, and the Maxwell‐Gannett theory. From the theoretical perspective, blood and fat are regarded as the composition of liver and brain because of the high permittivity in blood and the opposite in fat. Volume fraction of blood in liver and brain is analyzed theoretically, and the applicability and the limitation of the models are also discussed. These results benefit further study on local biological effects of electromagnetic fields.
Development of an Autonomous Endoscopically Implantable Submucosal Microdevice Capable of Neurostimulation in the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Hajer J. , Novák M.
Published: June 2017

Gastric dysmotility can be a sign of common diseases such as longstanding diabetes mellitus. It is known that the application of high-frequency low-energetic stimulation can help to effectively moderate and alleviate the symptoms of gastric dysmotility. The goal of our research was the development of a miniature, endoscopically implantable device to a submucosal pocket. The implantable device is a fully customized electronics package which was specifically designed for the purpose of experiments in the submucosa. The device was endoscopically inserted into the submucosal pocket of a pig stomach and partially severed pig side in order to adequately simulate a live animal model. The experiment confirmed that the designed device can be implanted into the submucosa and is capable of the measurement of sensor data and the transmission of this data wirelessly in real time to a computer outside of the body. After proving that the device can be implanted submucosally and transmit data, further experiments can now be performed, primarily with an electrogastrography (EGG) instrument and implantable device with tissue stimulation capability.
The Prevalence and Replication Capacity of a Tibetan Dominant HBV Strain, C/D Recombinant
Authors: Du Lingyao , Liu Menghan , Liu Miao , Zhou Taoyou , Cheng Xing , Liu Cong , Tang Hong
Published: June 2017

This study aimed to estimate the distribution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) C/D recombinant in Han and Tibet patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and then learn such strain’s replication capacity in vivo. A total of 331 serum samples were collected from Han outpatients from Sichuan Province and Tibetan outpatients from Tibet. Viral genotypes in these samples were identified. An HBV replicative plasmid of C/D recombinant was constructed with selected genome. Sequentially, HBV replicative mouse models were established and the replication capacity of the viral strain was studied in vivo. In the 314 Han patients, 66% (207) were infected by genotype B strain while 31% (96) were by genotype C strain. Only 1% (3) were by C/D recombinant. In the 17 Tibetan patients, 41% (7) were by genotype D and 35% (6) by C/D recombinant. A plasmid with 1.3 copies of C/D recombinant genome was constructed. And its replication intermediates were found at similar levels to that of genotype D strain. Thus, C/D recombinant, the dominant viral strain in Tibet, was rather rare in the genotype B predominated Han patients from Sichuan Province. And the C/D recombinant replicated at a similar level to viral strain of genotype D in vivo.
Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease Using Dual-Tree Complex Wavelet Transform, PCA, and Feed-Forward Neural Network
Authors: Jha Debesh , Kim Ji-In , Kwon Goo-Rak
Published: June 2017

Background. Error-free diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) from healthy control (HC) patients at an early stage of the disease is a major concern, because information about the condition’s severity and developmental risks present allows AD sufferer to take precautionary measures before irreversible brain damage occurs. Recently, there has been great interest in computer-aided diagnosis in magnetic resonance image (MRI) classification. However, distinguishing between Alzheimer’s brain data and healthy brain data in older adults (age > 60) is challenging because of their highly similar brain patterns and image intensities. Recently, cutting-edge feature extraction technologies have found extensive application in numerous fields, including medical image analysis. Here, we propose a dual-tree complex wavelet transform (DTCWT) for extracting features from an image. The dimensionality of feature vector is reduced by using principal component analysis (PCA). The reduced feature vector is sent to feed-forward neural network (FNN) to distinguish AD and HC from the input MR images. These proposed and implemented pipelines, which demonstrate improvements in classification output when compared to that of recent studies, resulted in high and reproducible accuracy rates of 90.06 ± 0.01% with a sensitivity of 92.00 ± 0.04%, a specificity of 87.78 ± 0.04%, and a precision of 89.6 ± 0.03% with 10-fold cross-validation.
Phase Ib Study of Utomilumab (PF-05082566), a 4-1BB/CD137 Agonist, in Combination with Pembrolizumab (MK-3475) in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Tolcher Anthony W. , Sznol Mario , Hu-Lieskovan Siwen , Papadopoulos Kyriakos P. , Patnaik Amita , Rasco Drew W. , Di Gravio Donna , Huang Bo , Gambhire Dhiraj , Chen Ying , Thall Aron D. , Pathan Nuzhat , Schmidt Emmett V. , Chow Laura Q.M.
Published: June 2017

Purpose: This phase Ib study (NCT02179918) evaluated the safety, antitumor activity, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of utomilumab, a fully human IgG2 mAb agonist of the T-cell costimulatory receptor 4-1BB/CD137 in combination with the humanized, PD-1–blocking IgG4 mAb pembrolizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Experimental Design: Utomilumab (0.45–5.0 mg/kg) and pembrolizumab (2 mg/kg) were administered intravenously every 3 weeks. Utomilumab dose escalation was conducted using the time-to-event continual reassessment method.

Results: Twenty-three patients received combination treatment with no dose-limiting toxicities. Treatment-emergent adverse events were mostly grades 1 to 2, without any treatment-related discontinuations. Six patients (26.1%) had confirmed complete or partial responses. Pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity of utomilumab and pembrolizumab were similar when administered alone or in combination. A trend toward higher levels of activated memory/effector peripheral blood CD8+ T cells was observed in responders versus nonresponders.

Conclusions: The safety, tolerability, and clinical activity demonstrated by utomilumab in combination with pembrolizumab support further investigation in patients with advanced solid tumors. Clin Cancer Res; 23(18); 5349–57. ©2017 AACR.

See related commentary by Pérez-Ruiz et al., p. 5326
Phostine PST3.1a Targets MGAT5 and Inhibits Glioblastoma-Initiating Cell Invasiveness and Proliferation
Authors: Hassani Zahra , Saleh Ali , Turpault Soumaya , Khiati Salim , Morelle Willy , Vignon Jacques , Hugnot Jean-Philippe , Uro-Coste Emmanuelle , Legrand Philippe , Delaforge Marcel , Loiseau Séverine , Clarion Ludovic , Lecouvey Marc , Volle Jean-Noël , Virieux David , Pirat Jean-Luc , Duffau Hugues , Bakalara Norbert
Published: June 2017

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor and accounts for a significant proportion of all primary brain tumors. Median survival after treatment is around 15 months. Remodeling of N-glycans by the N-acetylglucosamine glycosyltransferase (MGAT5) regulates tumoral development. Here, perturbation of MGAT5 enzymatic activity by the small-molecule inhibitor 3-hydroxy-4,5-bis-benzyloxy-6-benzyloxymethyl-2-phenyl2-oxo-2λ5-[1,2]oxaphosphinane (PST3.1a) restrains GBM growth. In cell-based assays, it is demonstrated that PST3.1a alters the β1,6-GlcNAc N-glycans of GBM-initiating cells (GIC) by inhibiting MGAT5 enzymatic activity, resulting in the inhibition of TGFβR and FAK signaling associated with doublecortin (DCX) upregulation and increase oligodendrocyte lineage transcription factor 2 (OLIG2) expression. PST3.1a thus affects microtubule and microfilament integrity of GBM stem cells, leading to the inhibition of GIC proliferation, migration, invasiveness, and clonogenic capacities. Orthotopic graft models of GIC revealed that PST3.1a treatment leads to a drastic reduction of invasive and proliferative capacity and to an increase in overall survival relative to standard temozolomide therapy. Finally, bioinformatics analyses exposed that PST3.1a cytotoxic activity is positively correlated with the expression of genes of the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), while the expression of mitochondrial genes correlated negatively with cell sensitivity to the compound. These data demonstrate the relevance of targeting MGAT5, with a novel anti-invasive chemotherapy, to limit glioblastoma stem cell invasion. Mol Cancer Res; 15(10); 1376–87. ©2017 AACR.
Blue-Enriched Morning Light as a Countermeasure to Light at the Wrong Time: Effects on Cognition, Sleepiness, Sleep, and Circadian Phase
Authors: Münch Mirjam , Nowozin Claudia , Regente Johannes , Bes Frederik , De Zeeuw Jan , Hädel Sven , Wahnschaffe Amely , Kunz Dieter
Published: June 2017

Light during the day and darkness at night are crucial factors for proper entrainment of the human circadian system to the solar 24-h day. However, modern life and work styles have led to much more time spent indoors, often with lower daytime and higher evening/nighttime light intensity from electrical lighting than outdoors. Whether this has long-term consequences for human health is being currently investigated. We tested if bright blue-enriched morning light over several days could counteract the detrimental effects of inadequate daytime and evening lighting. In a seminaturalistic, within-between subject study design, 18 young participants were exposed to different lighting conditions on 3 evenings (blue-enriched, bright orange, or dim light), after exposure to 2 lighting conditions (mixed blue-enriched light and control light, for 3 days each) in the mornings. Subjective sleepiness, reaction times, salivary melatonin concentrations, and nighttime sleep were assessed. Exposure to the blue-enriched morning lighting showed acute wake-promoting effects and faster reaction times than with control lighting. Some of these effects persisted until the evening, and performance improved over several days. The magnitude of circadian phase shifts induced by combinations of 3 different evening and 2 morning lighting conditions were significantly smaller with the blue-enriched morning light. During the night, participants had longer total sleep times after orange light exposure than after blue light exposure in the evening. Our results indicate that bright blue-enriched morning light stabilizes circadian phase, and it could be an effective counterstrategy for poor lighting during the day and also light exposure at the wrong time, such as in the late evening.
Maximizing Outcome in Light Treatment: Patient Behavior as the Light Treatment Delivery System
Authors: Young Michael A.
Published: June 2017

The effectiveness of light treatment depends on the treatment being properly received by the patient. Examination of the typical light treatment prescription shows that delivery of each component of the prescription consists of a behavior on the part of the patient. Light treatment delivery, and thus light treatment effectiveness, can be maximized by conceptualizing the treatment as a behavior change in the patient and by the application of well-established behavior change techniques.
Investigation of an Immediate Effect of Bright Light on Oxygen Consumption, Heart Rate, Cortisol, and α-Amylase in Seasonal Affective Disorder Subjects and Healthy Controls
Authors: Ivanova Iana A. , Danilenko Konstantin V. , Aftanas Lyubomir I.
Published: June 2017

Background: Body (fat) mass has been shown to decrease following bright light treatment for overweight women, irrespective of their seasonal (light) dependence. It is not known if this is due to an (immediate) increase of metabolism. Methods: Ten women with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and 10 non-SAD women matched by age, body mass index, and menopausal status participated in a laboratory study in the morning, twice within 1-5 days. During one session, bright light (4,300 lx) was presented for 30 min, and during the other session, red light (250 lx “placebo”) was used. After an initial 15 min of sitting quietly in an experimental chamber, 10-min measurements were done before, at the end, and 15 min after light exposure; the subjects remained seated for 80 min in total. The measurements included 5-min oxyspirography (oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide emission, and heart rate), saliva sampling for the estimation of cortisol and α-amylase concentrations, and self-rating of mood, energy, and sleepiness. Results: There was no light-specific effect on the measured variables, except that sleepiness was reduced more with bright light than with red light in the combined group. α-Amylase values were lower in the SAD patients than in the non-SAD controls. Conclusions: Morning artificial bright light, in comparison with dim red light, had no immediate effect on metabolism and resting sympathetic tone, though subjective sleepiness decreased more with bright light. SAD patients have low salivary α-amylase levels, indicating lower sympathetic tone.
Early Use of N-acetylcysteine With Nitrate Therapy in Patients Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction Reduces Myocardial Infarct Size (the NACIAM Trial [N-acetylcysteine in Acute Myocardial Infarction])
Authors: Pasupathy Sivabaskari , Tavella Rosanna , Grover Suchi , Raman Betty , Procter Nathan E.K. , Du Yang Timothy , Mahadavan Gnanadevan , Stafford Irene , Heresztyn Tamila , Holmes Andrew , Zeitz Christopher , Arstall Margaret , Selvanayagam Joseph , Horowitz John D. , Beltrame John F.
Published: June 2017

Background:

Contemporary ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction management involves primary percutaneous coronary intervention, with ongoing studies focusing on infarct size reduction using ancillary therapies. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant with reactive oxygen species scavenging properties that also potentiates the effects of nitroglycerin and thus represents a potentially beneficial ancillary therapy in primary percutaneous coronary intervention. The NACIAM trial (N-acetylcysteine in Acute Myocardial Infarction) examined the effects of NAC on infarct size in patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods:

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study evaluated the effects of intravenous high-dose NAC (29 g over 2 days) with background low-dose nitroglycerin (7.2 mg over 2 days) on early cardiac magnetic resonance imaging–assessed infarct size. Secondary end points included cardiac magnetic resonance–determined myocardial salvage and creatine kinase kinetics.

Results:

Of 112 randomized patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction, 75 (37 in NAC group, 38 in placebo group) underwent early cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Median duration of ischemia pretreatment was 2.4 hours. With background nitroglycerin infusion administered to all patients, those randomized to NAC exhibited an absolute 5.5% reduction in cardiac magnetic resonance–assessed infarct size relative to placebo (median, 11.0%; [interquartile range 4.1, 16.3] versus 16.5%; [interquartile range 10.7, 24.2];
P
=0.02). Myocardial salvage was approximately doubled in the NAC group (60%; interquartile range, 37–79) compared with placebo (27%; interquartile range, 14–42;
P
<0.01) and median creatine kinase areas under the curve were 22 000 and 38 000 IU·h in the NAC and placebo groups, respectively (
P
=0.08).

Conclusions:

High-dose intravenous NAC administered with low-dose intravenous nitroglycerin is associated with reduced infarct size in patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. A larger study is required to assess the impact of this therapy on clinical cardiac outcomes.

Clinical Trial Registration:

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry. URL:
http://www.anzctr.org.au/
. Unique identifier: 12610000280000.
An annotated catalogue of the spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) of Russia
Authors: LOKTIONOV VALERY M. , LELEJ ARKADY S.
Published: June 2017

Two hundred and forty-four valid species in 36 genera are listed. The genus Telostegus Costa, 1887 with the species T. inermis (Brullé, 1833) are newly recorded from Russia. Lectotypes are designated for Salius desertorum F. Morawitz, 1891, Psammochares amurensis Gussakovskij, 1932, and Pompilus cardinalis F. Morawitz, 1891. The generic status of Batozonellus Arnold, 1937, stat. resurr. is reinstated. Five taxa: Ceropales pygmaea pygmaea Kohl, 1880, C. ruficornis Gussakovskij, 1931, Eoferreola anatolica Priesner, 1973, Hemipepsis sinensis (Smith, 1855), and Telostegus nigritulus (Klug, 1834) are excluded from the list of the Russian fauna. The world number of genus-group names of Pompilidae is clarified: 451 nominal names, including 42 unavailable names, were proposed. Of the 409 available names, 254 are currently considered valid.
Increased Pulse Wave Velocity in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Peng , Mao Yan-Mei , Zhao Chan-Na , Liu Li-Na , Li Xiao-Mei , Li Xiang-Pei , Pan Hai-Feng
Published: June 2017

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. This study aims to derive a more precise estimation on pulse wave velocity (PWV) level in patients with SLE and related factors. A literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and The Cochrane Library databases, studies published up to February 28, 2017, in English. Pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated by fixed-effect or random-effect model analysis. Heterogeneity test was performed by the Q statistic and quantified using I2; publication bias was evaluated using a funnel plot and Egger’s linear regression test. Of 156 studies found, 27 met eligibility criteria, and 14 studies were finally included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis revealed that the SLE group had significantly higher PWV levels than the control group; SMD = 0.56 and 95% CI (0.30-0.82). Subgroup analyses showed that body mass index (BMI), sample size, and disease duration were associated with PWV in patients with SLE. Overall, our study suggests that patients with SLE have a higher PWV level, and it is associated with BMI, sample size, and disease duration.
Hiving off the non-essential: analysing which public organizations outsource administrative overhead
Authors: Boon Jan , Verhoest Koen , De Borger Bruno
Published: June 2017

This study contributes to our understanding of the characteristics of public organizations that are more likely to outsource administrative overhead. Despite the climate of ongoing crisis that urges public organizations to focus their resources on core tasks, little is known about the characteristics of organizations that hive off the delivery of non-essential administrative overhead processes to the private sector. This study runs a panel data Tobit model to test whether different effect sizes of structural, institutional and political characteristics are found regarding the probability of outsourcing and the degree of outsourcing of administrative overhead. We find that organizational size, formal autonomy, inertia and time matter for understanding the outsourcing of public organizations.

Points for practitioners

Across the globe, governments have turned to a rationalization of administrative overhead in response to austerity demands posed by the global financial crisis. The present study shows that large differences exist between organizations in terms of their propensity to turn to the private sector – one of the classic recipes for achieving efficiency gains – for the delivery of administrative overhead, and helps practitioners gain insight into the determinants of administrative overhead outsourcing.
Central venous catheter insertion into the false lumen of a complicated aortic dissection
Authors: Bas Ahmet , Goksedef Deniz , Kandemirli Sedat G , Gulsen Fatih , Numan Furuzan
Published: June 2017

Thoracic endovascular repair is considered the first-line treatment in complicated acute type B dissection. Central venous catheters provide valuable vascular access during endovascular treatments. However, central venous catheters are not without complications. Herein, we report a case of central venous catheter insertion into the false lumen of a complicated acute type B aortic dissection by direct aortic puncture. The tip of the central venous catheter was in the false lumen. The central venous catheter was left in place initially and was removed after graft stent deployment. This case illustrates the importance of image guidance during central venous catheter insertion, which may further complicate an already complicated aortic dissection case.
A Primer for Oncoimmunology (Immunooncology)
Authors: Bolon Brad , Aeffner Famke
Published: June 2017

Oncoimmunology (or immunooncology) is a burgeoning specialty of precision (“personalized”) medicine designed to heighten the antitumor response of the immune system against molecules expressed excessively or only by tumor cells. This focus is necessary, as cancers are polyclonal tissues comprised of antigenically heterogeneous cells, the exact composition of which is shaped by the balance between antitumor immunity and tumor-promoting inflammation. Key targets include enhancing immune system (especially T cell) reactivity, inhibiting immune checkpoints, and promoting tumor cytolysis. Therapeutic modalities to address these targets include administering antibodies, cytokines, or small molecules that directly stimulate the immune system, attack tumor-associated antigens, or interfere with tumor–stroma interactions; adoptive transfer of autologous T cells following ex vivo selection/expansion/activation (typically after lymphoid-depleting regimens and in conjunction with immunostimulatory therapy); and vaccination (against tumor antigens). Pathology involvement in oncoimmunology product development is critical to assess expression of target molecules in tumor cells, stromal cells, and tumor-infiltrating leukocytes.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation improves exercise tolerance in patients with advanced heart failure on continuous intravenous inotropic support use—randomized controlled trial
Authors: Forestieri Patrícia , Bolzan Douglas W , Santos Vinícius B , Moreira Rita Simone Lopes , de Almeida Dirceu Rodrigues , Trimer Renata , de Souza Brito Flávio , Borghi-Silva Audrey , de Camargo Carvalho Antonio Carlos , Arena Ross , Gomes Walter J , Guizilini Solange
Published: June 2017

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of a short-term neuromuscular electrical stimulation program on exercise tolerance in hospitalized patients with advanced heart failure who have suffered an acute decompensation and are under continuous intravenous inotropic support.

Design:

A randomized controlled study.

Subjects:

Initially, 195 patients hospitalized for decompensated heart failure were recruited, but 70 were randomized.

Intervention:

Patients were randomized into two groups: control group subject to the usual care ( n = 35); neuromuscular electrical stimulation group ( n = 35) received daily training sessions to both lower extremities for around two weeks.

Main measures:

The baseline 6-minute walk test to determine functional capacity was performed 24 hours after hospital admission, and intravenous inotropic support dose was daily checked in all patients. The outcomes were measured in two weeks or at the discharge if the patients were sent back home earlier than two weeks.

Results:

After losses of follow-up, a total of 49 patients were included and considered for final analysis (control group, n = 25 and neuromuscular electrical stimulation group, n = 24). The neuromuscular electrical stimulation group presented with a higher 6-minute walk test distance compared to the control group after the study protocol (293 ± 34.78 m vs. 265.8 ± 48.53 m, P < 0.001, respectively). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation group also demonstrated a significantly higher dose reduction of dobutamine compared to control group after the study protocol (2.72 ± 1.72 µg/kg/min vs. 3.86 ± 1.61 µg/kg/min, P = 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion:

A short-term inpatient neuromuscular electrical stimulation rehabilitation protocol improved exercise tolerance and reduced intravenous inotropic support necessity in patients with advanced heart failure suffering a decompensation episode.
Thoracic paravertebral block versus intravenous patient-controlled analgesia for pain treatment in patients with multiple rib fractures
Authors: Yeying Ge , Liyong Yuan , Yuebo Chen , Yu Zhang , Guangao Ye , Weihu Ma , Liujun Zhao
Published: June 2017

Objectives

To assess the effect of thoracic paravertebral block (PVB) on pain management and preservation of pulmonary function compared with intravenous, patient-controlled analgesia (IVPCA) in patients with multiple rib fractures (MRFs).

Methods

Ninety patients with unilateral MRFs were included in this prospective study and randomly assigned to the TPVB or IVPCA group. The visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score, blood gas analysis, and bedside spirometry were measured and recorded at different time points after analgesia.

Results

TPVB and IVPCA provided good pain relief. VAS scores were significantly lower in the TPVB group than in the IVPCA group at rest and during coughing ( P < 0.05). Patients in the TPVB group had a higher PaO2 and PaO2/FiO2 and lower P(A–a)O2 compared with the IVPCA group ( P < 0.05). Moreover, patients in the TPVB group showed higher FVC, FEV1/FVC, and PEFR, and fewer complications than did the IVPCA group ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion

TPVB is superior to IVPCA in pain relief and preservation of pulmonary function in patients with MRFs.
A Systematic Review of Supported Accommodation Programs for People Released From Custody
Authors: Growns Bethany , Kinner Stuart A. , Conroy Elizabeth , Baldry Eileen , Larney Sarah
Published: June 2017

One of the challenges that people recently released from custody face is securing housing. Many individuals rely on supported accommodation programs for housing in the immediate post-release period. However, the value of supported accommodation programs in producing positive criminal justice and health outcomes for people released from custody has not been widely examined. This article reviews the current literature on supported accommodation programs and the elements of these services that contribute to positive outcomes for individuals released from custody. We focused on programs that provided temporary, transitional group residences for adults recently released from a correctional setting. The systematic review identified only nine publications that met the inclusion criteria. Studies were frequently at high risk of bias and few consistent findings emerged about either effectiveness of accommodation programs or program characteristics associated with participant outcomes. Methodologically rigorous research is needed to determine the effectiveness of post-release supported accommodation programs.
Sibling Influence on Access to Marriage
Authors: Caron Marianne , Neyrinck Ward , Dillon Lisa Y. , Matthijs Koenraad
Published: June 2017

In this comparative article of European and American contexts, we investigate how siblings influence individuals’ access to marriage. We use a comparative and quantitative event history analysis approach to identify similarities and differences between the contexts studied. We find evidence in both contexts of customs that stipulated that siblings should marry in order of birth and also positive stimulative effects from married siblings on their unmarried counterparts, particularly in opposite-sex pairs. At the same time, we find evidence for negative effects as a consequence of recent marriages of siblings, demonstrating that sibling competition for access to marriage went on simultaneously.
Do Ligamentum Teres Tears Portend Inferior Outcomes in Patients With Borderline Dysplasia Undergoing Hip Arthroscopic Surgery? A Match-Controlled Study With a Minimum 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Chaharbakhshi Edwin O. , Perets Itay , Ashberg Lyall , Mu Brian , Lenkeit Christopher , Domb Benjamin G.
Published: June 2017

Background:

Arthroscopic surgery in borderline dysplastic hips remains controversial, but the role of the ligamentum teres (LT) has not been studied in this setting.

Hypothesis:

Borderline dysplastic patients with LT tears have worse short-term outcomes than those without LT tears.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Data were prospectively collected on patients who underwent arthroscopic surgery between February 2008 and April 2014. The inclusion criteria were borderline dysplasia (lateral center-edge angle [LCEA], 18°-25°) and labral tears; arthroscopic treatments including labral preservation and capsular plication; and preoperative patient-reported outcome scores including the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Non-Arthritic Hip Score (NAHS), Hip Outcome Score–Sport-Specific Subscale, and visual analog scale for pain. Patients were excluded for preoperative Tönnis osteoarthritis grade >0, workers’ compensation claims, previous ipsilateral hip surgery and conditions, or frank dysplasia (LCEA <18°). Patients with LT tears were pair-matched to patients without tears for sex, age at surgery ±10 years, body mass index (<30 kg/m2 vs ≥30 kg/m2), labral treatment type, and microfracture.

Results:

Of 68 eligible patients, 63 (93%) had a minimum 2-year follow-up, and 30 (48%) had LT tears. Twenty patients in each group were pair-matched. The mean follow-up time was 54.3 months (range, 24.2-83.8 months) for the LT tear group and 38.6 months (range, 24.6-70.6 months) for the control group ( P = .002). Ninety percent were female. There were no significant differences regarding demographics or intra-operative procedures. The LT tear group trended toward lower postoperative mHHS ( P = .09) and NAHS ( P = .09) values. Mean satisfaction was 8.1 for the LT tear group and 7.9 for the control group. Preoperative and follow-up scores were not significantly different between the groups. The LT tear group had 5 revisions, with 1 revision in the control group. Three patients (15%) in the LT tear group underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA); no patients in the control group required THA.

Conclusion:

In borderline dysplastic patients undergoing hip arthroscopic surgery with labral treatment and capsular plication, LT tears may indicate advanced instability and portend slightly inferior outcomes when compared with a match-controlled group. Borderline dysplastic patients with LT tears may have increased propensities toward revision arthroscopic surgery and conversion to THA. LT tears in these patients may warrant consideration for additional procedures including periacetabular osteotomy and LT reconstruction.
State-of-the-art of fiber-reinforced polymers in additive manufacturing technologies
Authors: Hofstätter Thomas , Pedersen David B , Tosello Guido , Hansen Hans N
Published: June 2017

Additive manufacturing technologies have received a lot of attention in recent years for their use in multiple materials such as metals, ceramics, and polymers. The aim of this review article is to analyze the technology of fiber-reinforced polymers and its implementation with additive manufacturing. This article reviews recent developments, ideas, and state-of-the-art technologies in this field. Moreover, it gives an overview of the materials currently available for fiber-reinforced material technology.
Parental Involvement Among Middle-Income Latino Parents Living in a Middle-Class Community
Authors: Inoa Rafael
Published: June 2017

Parental involvement has often shared a positive correlation with student academic achievement. To better understand parental involvement dynamics among middle-class Latino families, in-depth parent interviews were conducted among 21 such parents. Results from this study which add to the educational literature include high levels of academic socialization between parents and their children as early as elementary school, and perceived barriers to involvement similar to those often found among poor and working-class Latino families. Other findings which support the literature are the ways in which home-based and school-based involvement practices change over time, and the implementation of childrearing strategies previously linked to middle-class families. Parents in this study were primarily concerned with the emotional well-being of their children, and with affording their children autonomy over extracurricular activities and future career choices. Implications for future research are further presented.