bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ensuring a healthy approach to long‐term weight management: Review of the Slimming World programme
Authors: Coe S. , Spiro A. , Lockyer S. , Stanner S.
Published: August 2019

Weight management programmes have been shown to be effective interventions that encourage clinically relevant weight loss. The aim of a weight management programme is not only to achieve weight loss, but also to support long‐term weight maintenance and for that reason their suitability in helping people to meet the key dietary recommendations for health must be considered. The British Nutrition Foundation was asked to investigate whether the Slimming World weight management programme is consistent with current nutrient and food‐based recommendations, and whether Slimming World members following the programme are typically eating diets meeting these recommendations in the ‘real world’. This was to help inform any potential refinements to their dietary approach. A three‐stage approach included a review of Slimming World's dietary approach resources, nutritional analysis of Slimming World's example menu plans and dietary analysis of 40 7‐day weighed food diaries completed by adult female Slimming World members. The Slimming World dietary approach reflects many of the main messages in the UK's Eatwell Guide and generally accepted healthy eating advice. Several observations were made with indications for potential changes in relation to key food groups. Nutritional analysis of the 7‐day menu plans suggests that a Slimming World member following a provided example menu plan could meet many of the UK dietary recommendations that were analysed in this review. Food diary analysis suggests the Slimming World study sample on average met dietary recommendations for total fat, saturated fat, calcium, salt and 5 A DAY. In comparison, national dietary surveys report that the average UK adult female population meets the total fat and calcium recommendations, but is not meeting the recommendations for saturated fat, salt and 5 A DAY. The study sample did not meet the recommendations for intakes of fibre and free sugars and oil‐rich fish, but these were still closer to recommendations than the average UK adult female population. High intakes of red and processed meat and alcohol were observed amongst some of the study sample. Overall, the findings suggest that despite a reduction in energy intake, adult females following this weight management programme may be consuming a diet that more closely meets UK dietary guidelines when compared with the average UK adult female population.
Negative regulators of plant immunity derived from cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenases are targeted by multiple Phytophthora Avr3a‐like effectors
Authors: Li Tingting , Wang Qinhu , Feng Ruirui , Li Licai , Ding Liwen , Fan Guangjin , Li Weiwei , Du Yu , Zhang Meixiang , Huang Guiyan , Schäfer Patrick , Meng Yuling , Tyler Brett M. , Shan Weixing
Published: August 2019

Oomycete pathogens secrete numerous effectors to manipulate host immunity. While some effectors share a conserved structural fold, it remains unclear if any have conserved host targets. Avr3a‐like family effectors, which are related to Phytophthora infestans effector PiAvr3a and are widely distributed across diverse clades of Phytophthora species, were used to study this question.

By using yeast‐two‐hybrid, bimolecular fluorescence complementation and co‐immunoprecipitation assays, we identified members of the plant cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase 7 (CAD7) subfamily as targets of multiple Avr3a‐like effectors from Phytophthora pathogens.

The CAD7 subfamily has expanded in plant genomes but lost the lignin biosynthetic activity of canonical CAD subfamilies. In turn, we identified CAD7s as negative regulators of plant immunity that are induced by Phytophthora infection. Moreover, AtCAD7 was stabilized by Avr3a‐like effectors and involved in suppression of pathogen‐associated molecular pattern‐triggered immunity, including callose deposition, reactive oxygen species burst and WRKY33 expression.

Our results reveal CAD7 subfamily proteins as negative regulators of plant immunity that are exploited by multiple Avr3a‐like effectors to promote infection in different host plants.
Beyond Equal Rights: Equality of Opportunity in Political Participation
Authors: Hufe Paul , Peichl Andreas
Published: August 2019

While it is well documented that political participation is stratified by socioeconomic characteristics, it is an open question how this finding bears on the evaluation of the democratic process with respect to its fairness. In this paper, we draw on the analytical tools developed in the equality‐of‐opportunity literature to answer this question. We investigate to what extent differential political participation is determined by factors that lie beyond individual control (circumstances) rather than being the result of individual effort. Using rich panel data from the United States, we indeed find a lack of political opportunity for the types with the most disadvantaged circumstances. Opportunity shortages tend to complement each other across different forms of participation and persist over time. Family characteristics and psychological conditions during childhood emanate as the strongest determinants of political opportunities.
Immortalization of porcine hepatocytes with a α‐1,3‐galactosyltransferase knockout background
Authors: Wang Quancheng , Zhang Xuan , Wang Bo , Bai Ge , Pan Dengke , Yang Peijun , Tao Kaishan , Li Xiao , Dou Kefeng
Published: August 2019

Background

In vivo pig liver xenotransplantation preclinical trials appear to have poor efficiency compared to heart or kidney xenotransplantation because of xenogeneic rejection, including coagulopathy, and particularly thrombocytopenia. In contrast, ex vivo pig liver (wild type) perfusion systems have been proven to be effective in “bridging” liver failure patients until subsequent liver allotransplantation, and transgenic (human CD55/CD59) modifications have even prolonged the duration of pig liver perfusion. Despite the fact that hepatocyte cell lines have also been proposed for extracorporeal blood circulation in conditions of acute liver failure, porcine hepatocyte cell lines, and the GalT‐KO background in particular, have not been developed and applied in this field. Herein, we established immortalized wild‐type and GalT‐KO porcine hepatocyte cell lines, which can be used for artificial liver support systems, cell transplantation, and even in vitro studies of xenotransplantation.

Methods

Primary hepatocytes extracted from GalT‐KO and wild‐type pigs were transfected with SV40 LT lentivirus to establish immortalized GalT‐KO porcine hepatocytes (GalT‐KO‐hep) and wild‐type porcine hepatocytes (WT). Hepatocyte biomarkers and function‐related genes were assessed by immunofluorescence, periodic acid‐Schiff staining, indocyanine green (ICG) uptake, biochemical analysis, ELISA, and RT‐PCR. Furthermore, the tumorigenicity of immortalized cells was detected. In addition, a complement‐dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) assay was performed with GalT‐KO‐hep and WT cells. Cell death and viability rates were assessed by flow cytometry and CCK‐8 assay.

Results

GalT‐KO and wild‐type porcine hepatocytes were successfully immortalized and maintained the characteristics of primary porcine hepatocytes, including albumin secretion, ICG uptake, urea and glycogen production, and expression of hepatocyte marker proteins and specific metabolic enzymes. GalT‐KO‐hep and WT cells were confirmed as having no tumorigenicity. In addition, GalT‐KO‐hep cells showed less apoptosis and more viability than WT cells when exposed to complement and xenogeneic serum.

Conclusions

Two types of immortalized cell lines of porcine hepatocytes with GalT‐KO and wild‐type backgrounds were successfully established. GalT‐KO‐hep cells exhibited higher viability and injury resistance against a xenogeneic immune response.
Interrogating CD8
+
T cell reactivity on a genome-wide scale
Authors: Naxerova Kamila
Published: August 2019

A new method enables large-scale identification of human T cell antigens.
Renal cholesterol crystal embolism in the setting of warfarin use
Authors: Munawar Tooba , Ibe Uzochukwu , Jiwa Nasheena , Raissi Sina
Published: August 2019

A 73-year-old man presented for evaluation of weakness and black tarry stools that occurred 1 day prior to admission. His medical history is significant for diabetes mellitus, stage 3 chronic kidney disease and deep vein thrombosis on warfarin. He was admitted to the hospital and was found to have acute kidney injury and gastrointestinal bleeding due to a supratherapeutic International Normalized Ratio. His hospital course was complicated by persistent decline in his renal function. He was given intravenous fluid resuscitation, fresh frozen plasma and packed red blood cells for his acute blood loss anaemia. Urinalysis was consistent with acute tubular necrosis. Given the persistent rise in creatinine, a kidney biopsy was obtained, and was significant for mild inflammatory changes, without evidence of vasculitis or allergic interstitial nephritis. Histopathological examination with tissue fixation revealed cholesterol embolisation. Given that he had no recent endovascular procedure or instrumentation, this atheroembolic event was attributed to his warfarin use.
Varicella meningitis with concomitant genital shingles in an adolescent
Authors: Chan Shi Hua , Thoon Koh Cheng , Nagarajan Nandhakumar
Published: August 2019

This case describes an uncommon presentation of herpes zoster in an adolescent with viral meningitis and concomitant genital shingles. A 15-year-old immunocompetent girl with background of well-controlled Graves’ disease presented with 3 days of fever, frontal headache, terminal neck stiffness and photophobia. This was preceded by 4 days of pain and itch over vaginal and anal region. She had one dose of varicella vaccination at 18 months old and developed mild primary varicella infection around 5 years of age. Varicella zoster virus DNA was detected both in cerebrospinal fluid and in vesicles over her right labial majora. While there is no international consensus on the recommended duration of treatment for zoster with neurological complications, she was treated with intravenous acyclovir for 10 days with good clinical response. Her fever, headache and neck stiffness resolved after 2 days and genital lesions resolved after 9 days of antiviral therapy.
The distributional impact of taxing sugar-sweetened beverages: findings from an extended cost-effectiveness analysis in South Africa
Authors: Saxena Akshar , Stacey Nicholas , Puech Paula Del Ray , Mudara Caroline , Hofman Karen , Verguet Stéphane
Published: August 2019

Background

Facing increasing obesity prevalence and obesity-related disease burden, South Africa has devised an obesity prevention strategy that includes a recently implemented tax on the sugar content of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB). We assess the potential distributional impact (across socioeconomic groups) of this tax on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) incidence and associated mortality and its financial burden on households.

Methods

We conducted an extended cost-effectiveness analysis of the new 10% tax on SSBs in South Africa, and estimated: the averted premature deaths related to T2DM, the financial benefits to households (out-of-pocket (OOP) medical costs and indirect costs due to productivity losses averted), the increased government tax revenues and healthcare savings for the government, all across income quintiles.

Findings

A 10% SSB tax increase would avert an estimated 8000 T2DM-related premature deaths over 20 years, with most deaths averted among the third and fourth income quintiles. The government would save about South African rand (ZAR) 2 billion (US$140 million) in subsidised healthcare over 20 years; and would raise ZAR6 billion (US$450 million) in tax revenues per annum. The bottom two quintiles would bear the smallest tax burden increase (36% of the additional taxes). The bottom two income quintiles would also have the lowest savings in OOP payments due to significant subsidisation provided by government healthcare. Lastly, an estimated 32 000 T2DM-related cases of catastrophic expenditures and 12 000 cases of poverty would be averted.

Conclusions

SSB taxation would have a substantial distributional impact on obesity-related premature deaths, cost savings to the government and the financial outcomes of South Africa’s population.
Compensating control participants when the intervention is of significant value: experience in Guatemala, India, Peru and Rwanda
Authors: Quinn Ashlinn K , Williams Kendra , Thompson Lisa M , Rosa Ghislaine , Díaz-Artiga Anaité , Thangavel Gurusamy , Balakrishnan Kalpana , Miranda J Jaime , Rosenthal Joshua P , Clasen Thomas F , Harvey Steven A
Published: August 2019

The Household Air Pollution Intervention Network (HAPIN) trial is a randomised controlled trial in Guatemala, India, Peru and Rwanda to assess the health impact of a clean cooking intervention in households using solid biomass for cooking. The HAPIN intervention—a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) stove and 18-month supply of LPG—has significant value in these communities, irrespective of potential health benefits. For control households, it was necessary to develop a compensation strategy that would be comparable across four settings and would address concerns about differential loss to follow-up, fairness and potential effects on household economics. Each site developed slightly different, contextually appropriate compensation packages by combining a set of uniform principles with local community input. In Guatemala, control compensation consists of coupons equivalent to the LPG stove’s value that can be redeemed for the participant’s choice of household items, which could include an LPG stove. In Peru, control households receive several small items during the trial, plus the intervention stove and 1 month of fuel at the trial’s conclusion. Rwandan participants are given small items during the trial and a choice of a solar kit, LPG stove and four fuel refills, or cash equivalent at the end. India is the only setting in which control participants receive the intervention (LPG stove and 18 months of fuel) at the trial’s end while also being compensated for their time during the trial, in accordance with local ethics committee requirements. The approaches presented here could inform compensation strategy development in future multi-country trials.
Double burden or single duty to care? Health innovators’ perspectives on environmental considerations in health innovation design
Authors: Rivard Lysanne , Lehoux Pascale , Miller Fiona A
Published: August 2019

Objectives

The healthcare sector lags behind other industries in efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. This study aims to better understand how those who design new health technologies (devices, technical aids and information technologies) perceive and address environmental considerations in their practice.

Methods

We conducted in-depth interviews with engineers, industrial designers, entrepreneurs and clinicians (n=31) involved in the design, development and distribution of health innovations in Quebec and Ontario (Canada). A qualitative thematic data analysis identified similarities and variations across respondents’ viewpoints.

Results

Innovators’ views emphasise the following: (1) the double burden of supporting patient care and reducing the environmental impact of healthcare; (2) systemic challenges to integrating environmental considerations in health innovation design, development and use and (3) solutions to foster the development of environmental-friendly health innovations. Although innovators tend to prioritise patient care over the environment, they also call for public policies that can transform these two imperatives into a single duty to care.

Conclusions

Health innovators are uniquely positioned to tackle challenges and develop creative solutions. Policymakers and regulators should, however, actively steer the healthcare industry towards a more sustainable modus operandi by giving full attention to environmental considerations in health innovation design.
Tundra shrub expansion may amplify permafrost thaw by advancing snowmelt timing
Authors: Wilcox Evan J. , Keim Dawn , de Jong Tyler , Walker Branden , Sonnentag Oliver , Sniderhan Anastasia E. , Mann Philip , Marsh Philip
Published: August 2019

The overall spatial and temporal influence of shrub expansion on permafrost is largely unknown due to uncertainty in estimating the magnitude of many counteracting processes. For example, shrubs shade the ground during the snow-free season, which can reduce active layer thickness. At the same time, shrubs advance the timing of snowmelt when they protrude through the snow surface, thereby exposing the active layer to thawing earlier in spring. Here, we compare 3056 in situ frost table depth measurements split between mineral earth hummocks and organic inter-hummock zones across four dominant shrub–tundra vegetation types. Snow-free date, snow depth, hummock development, topography, and vegetation cover were compared to frost table depth measurements using a structural equation modeling approach that quantifies the direct and combined interacting influence of these variables. Areas of birch shrubs became snow free earlier regardless of snow depth or hillslope aspect because they protruded through the snow surface, leading to deeper hummock frost table depths. Projected increases in shrub height and extent combined with projected decreases in snowfall would lead to increased shrub protrusion across the Arctic, potentially deepening the active layer in areas where shrub protrusion advances the snow-free date.
Rectangular hollow section webs under transverse compression
Authors: Kuhn Jens , Packer Jeffrey A. , Fan YuJing
Published: August 2019

An investigation is presented into full-width, rectangular hollow section (RHS) X-connections subject to transverse compression, including the effect of a compressive or tensile chord preload. A re-evaluation of world-wide experimental tests on full-width X-connections revealed considerable inaccuracy with current design recommendations, as well as significant discrepancies between them. A finite element study was hence conducted to further investigate the behaviour of such connections. A critical value of the bearing length-to-chord height ratio was found, where yielding failure of the chord webs turns into buckling failure, and this has been implemented in the subsequent design recommendation. The proposed design procedure is based on 350 finite element results, covering a wide range of chord sidewall slenderness values, bearing length values and chord stress ratios, as well as against a screened database of 125 experimental tests. The proposal is shown to offer excellent predictions and incorporates a simple reliability analysis.
Thermal corrections of Born–Infeld–anti-de Sitter black hole in massive gravity
Authors: Jawad Abdul , Chaudhary Shahid
Published: August 2019

The impact of thermal fluctuations on the thermodynamics of Born–Infeld–anti-de Sitter black hole is being investigated. For this purpose, we analyze the consequences of logarithmic corrections on thermodynamics potentials like Helmholtz and Gibbs. We find out the relations for critical points and stability and observe that thermal corrections play a vital role in them.
Phantom fluid wormhole in f(R, T) gravity
Authors: Sahoo Parbati , Kirschner Annika , Sahoo P. K.
Published: August 2019

Wormholes (WHs) are considered as hypothetical shortcuts or tunnels in spacetime. In general relativity (GR), the fundamental ingredient of WH geometry is the presence of exotic matter at the throat, which is responsible for the violation of null energy condition (NEC). However, the modified gravity theories have shown to be able to provide WH solutions satisfying energy conditions (ECs). In this paper, we study the static spherically symmetric WH solutions in modified [Formula: see text] gravity for a phantom fluid case. The exact solutions of this model are obtained through the equation of state (EoS), [Formula: see text], associated with phantom dark energy (DE) [Formula: see text]. We find the existence of spherically symmetric WH solution supported by phantom energy distribution. The shape function of the WH obtained in this model obeys all the WH metric conditions. In modified gravity scenario, the phantom fluid WH violates the NEC in radial case, unlike in the tangential case. Furthermore, using the “volume integral quantifier” (VIQ) method, the total amount of EC violating matter in spacetime is discussed briefly.
Human Epididymis Protein 4 (HE4) Reference Limits in Polish Population of Healthy Women, Pregnant Women, and Women with Benign Ovarian Tumors
Authors: Gasiorowska Emilia , Kluz Tomasz , Lipski Dawid , Warchoł Wojciech , Tykarski Andrzej , Nowak-Markwitz Ewa
Published: August 2019

Objectives. Defining precisely the normal range of HE4 protein is crucial for the proper interpretation of tumor marker results and for a more efficient diagnosis of ovarian malignancy. The aim of our study was to evaluate a reference limit of HE4 protein in a population to promote and facilitate the common use of HE4 protein assays. We also tried to identify potential association of HE4 levels with other conditions such as smoking, age, BMI, and creatinine levels. Methods. Blood samples were collected from 617 patients divided into three groups: healthy, pregnant, and with benign ovarian tumors. Serum HE4 concentrations were measured following a standard procedure. HE4 reference ranges for each group and association of HE4 levels with BMI, creatinine, and smoking were investigated. Results. HE4 reference limit for healthy patients equals 85 pmol/l, which becomes 73 pmol/l and 93 pmol/l for pre and postmenopausal subgroups, respectively. There is a statistically significant correlation between HE4 serum level and smoking (p=0.000001) and there is no correlation with creatinine. But if we take into account age and smoking, in multivariate analysis, there is a correlation. For pregnant, the upper limit values of normal HE4 levels are 55 pmol/l (median=40 pmol/l), 80 pmol/l (median=43 pmol/l), and 106 pmol/l (median=53 pmol/l) for the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. Conclusions. HE4 protein value strongly depends on the patient’s age and smoking. The serum concentration of HE4 marker increases with the duration of pregnancy. Understanding the normal range of HE4 protein enables the correct interpretation of marker measurements. This may result in an earlier and more effective diagnosis of ovarian cancer.
PSO‐Based Approach for Buckling Analysis of Shell Structures with Geometric Imperfections
Authors: Luo Lisheng , He Wenyuan , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: August 2019

The buckling loads of shell structures are sensitive to initial geometric imperfections. Conventional methods used to model geometric imperfections cannot determine the accuracy of buckling loads with high computational efficiency. A new computational approach based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) is proposed to obtain the lower bound of the buckling load of shell structures with geometric imperfections. The proposed approach assumes a nodal geometric position using uncertain parameters. The buckling loads of the shell structures are then optimized using the PSO‐based approach. Both academic and practical numerical examples have been thoroughly investigated. Thus, the applicability and accuracy of the proposed method is critically validated.
Assessing Turbulence Models on the Simulation of Launch Vehicle Base Heating
Authors: Pu Pengyu , Jiang Yi
Published: August 2019

Launch vehicles suffer from severe base heating during ascents. To predict launch vehicle base heat flux, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools are widely used. The selection of the turbulence model determines the numerical simulation results of launch vehicle base heating, which may instruct the thermal protection design for the launch vehicle base. To assess performances, several Reynolds-averaged turbulence models have been investigated for the base heating simulation based on a four-nozzle launch vehicle model. The finite-rate chemistry model was used for afterburning. The results showed that all the turbulence models have provided nearly identical mean flow properties at the nozzle exit. Menter’s baseline (BSL) and shear stress transport (SST) models have estimated the highest collision pressure and have best predicted base heat flux compared to the experiment. The Spalart-Allmaras (SA) model and the renormalization group (RNG) model have performed best in temperature estimation, respectively, in around r/rb=0~0.2 and r/rb=0.6~1. The realizable k‐ε (RKE) model has underestimated the reverse flow and failed to correctly reflect the recirculation in the base region, thus poorly predicted base heating. Among all the investigated turbulence models, the BSL and SST models are more suitable for launch vehicle base heating simulation.
HHV-8-Associated Lymphoproliferative Disorders and Pathogenesis in an HIV-Positive Patient
Authors: Guerrero Carlo , Jain Tania , Kelemen Katalin
Published: August 2019

Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), also known as Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, is a DNA oncovirus known for its role in the development of Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) and several lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs). HHV-8 promotes lymphoproliferation via the activation of the interleukin-6 receptor signaling pathway, as well as a host of other regulatory mechanisms. The spectrum of HHV-8-associated LPDs is increasing. The World Health Organization has recently updated the classification of HHV-8-associated LPDs by introducing HHV-8-positive germinotropic LPD (GLPD) in addition to the previously recognized entities of HHV-8-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (DLBCL, NOS), primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), and HHV-8-positive multicentric Castleman’s disease (MCD). We present here a case of an HIV-positive woman with a history of KS, who later developed three HHV-8-associated LPDs, including HHV-8-positive MCD, PEL, and GLPD. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a patient with this combination of individually rare HHV-8-associated LPDs. This case illustrates the spectrum and the sequential development of the different clinical manifestations of HHV-8-associated diseases. Detection of HHV-8 can have clinical significance in the diagnosis and management of certain HHV-8-associated conditions. Recently discovered variants of HHV-8-associated LPDs indicate that this group represents a diverse spectrum of disorders, whose classification may require further refinement beyond the currently recognized entities.
Tissue and Plasma EGFR Mutation Analysis in the FLAURA Trial: Osimertinib versus Comparator EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor as First-Line Treatment in Patients with EGFR-Mutated Advanced Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gray Jhanelle E. , Okamoto Isamu , Sriuranpong Virote , Vansteenkiste Johan , Imamura Fumio , Lee Jong Seok , Pang Yong-Kek , Cobo Manuel , Kasahara Kazuo , Cheng Ying , Nogami Naoyuki , Cho Eun Kyung , Su Wu Chou , Zhang Guili , Huang Xiangning , Li-Sucholeiki Xiaocheng , Lentrichia Brian , Dearden Simon , Jenkins Suzanne , Saggese Matilde , Rukazenkov Yuri , Ramalingam Suresh S.
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

To assess the utility of the cobas EGFR Mutation Test, with tissue and plasma, for first-line osimertinib therapy for patients with EGFR-mutated (EGFRm; Ex19del and/or L858R) advanced or metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) from the FLAURA study (NCT02296125).

Experimental Design:

Tumor tissue EGFRm status was determined at screening using the central cobas tissue test or a local tissue test. Baseline circulating tumor (ct)DNA EGFRm status was retrospectively determined with the central cobas plasma test.

Results:

Of 994 patients screened, 556 were randomized (289 and 267 with central and local EGFR test results, respectively) and 438 failed screening. Of those randomized from local EGFR test results, 217 patients had available central test results; 211/217 (97%) were retrospectively confirmed EGFRm positive by central cobas tissue test. Using reference central cobas tissue test results, positive percent agreements with cobas plasma test results for Ex19del and L858R detection were 79% [95% confidence interval (CI), 74–84] and 68% (95% CI, 61–75), respectively. Progression-free survival (PFS) superiority with osimertinib over comparator EGFR-TKI remained consistent irrespective of randomization route (central/local EGFRm-positive tissue test). In both treatment arms, PFS was prolonged in plasma ctDNA EGFRm-negative (23.5 and 15.0 months) versus -positive patients (15.2 and 9.7 months).

Conclusions:

Our results support utility of cobas tissue and plasma testing to aid selection of patients with EGFRm advanced NSCLC for first-line osimertinib treatment. Lack of EGFRm detection in plasma was associated with prolonged PFS versus patients plasma EGFRm positive, potentially due to patients having lower tumor burden.
The Association of Occupational Stress and Depressive Symptoms among Employed Persons with Benign Breast Disease: The Mediating Role of Psychological Capital
Authors: Han Xu , Li Qiaobei , Wang Chunyan , Li Yinyan
Published: August 2019

Background:To evaluate the association between depressive symptoms and occupational stress, and the possibility of psychological capital (PsyCap) in alleviating depressive symptoms and occupational stress, we investigated the mediating role of PsyCap on the association between depressive symptoms and occupational stress among employed persons with benign breast disease (BBD) diagnosed by using ultrasonography. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 371 employed persons with BBD. Self-administered questionnaires, including the items of depressive symptoms, occupational stress, the 24-item Psychological Capital Questionnaire, as well as the age, education, marital status, occupation, monthly income, and weekly working hours, were obtained from all patients. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) was used to measure the depressive symptoms, an effort-reward imbalance model was used to assess occupational stress, while 24-item Psychological Capital Questionnaire measurements were used to measure the PsyCap. Baron and Kenny’s technique was used to test the mediating effect of PsyCap. Results: In total, 62% of employed persons with BBD had scores equal to or above the cutoff point (CES-D ≥16). Overcommitment was not significantly correlated with PsyCap (r = –0.096, p = 0.066). Depressive symptoms were positively correlated with the effort-reward ratio (ERR) (β = 0.327, p < 0.001) in model 2, and it was negatively correlated with PsyCap (β = –0.339, p < 0.001) in model 3. PsyCap associated with ERR mediated the depressive symptoms. Conclusions: Besides the medical intervention, the management of depressive symptoms and decrease in occupational stress should be considered to alleviate the depressive symptoms associated with employed persons with BBD. PsyCap is an active resource for relieving depressive symptoms and reducing occupational stress in persons with BBD.
Impact of Abdominal Aortic Calcification on Central Haemodynamics and Decline of Glomerular Filtration Rate in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Stages 3 and 4
Authors: Jansson Hanna , Saeed Aso , Svensson Maria K. , Finnved Kristina , Hellström Mikael , Guron Gregor
Published: August 2019

Background/Aim: Calcifications of large arteries are frequent in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may contribute to the high cardiovascular risk in this population. The aim of this study was to examine whether abdominal aortic calcification volume (AACV) was a predictor of the rate of decline in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in a cohort of patients with CKD stages 3 and 4. Methods: Eighty-four patients with CKD stages 3 and 4 were enrolled in this prospective observational study. At study entry, and annually, GFR was measured by plasma 51Cr-EDTA clearance. At baseline, haemodynamics was assessed and AACV was determined by computer tomography. Results: The mean follow-up time was 3.4 years and mean decline in GFR was –2.69 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year. At baseline, abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) was detected in 66 patients (79%). A binary logistic regression analysis revealed that age was the only statistically significant independent predictor of AAC. In patients with AAC, male gender (B = 0.413, p = 0.030), aortic diastolic blood pressure (B = –0.025, p = 0.001) and ankle-brachial index (B = –1.666, p = 0.002) were independently associated with AACV using a multiple linear regression analysis. Neither the presence nor the extent of AAC was significantly associated with the rate of change in GFR during follow-up. Conclusion: In this cohort of patients with CKD stages 3 and 4, only age was an independent predictor of the presence of AAC. AACV was not associated with the rate of decline in GFR.
Ocular Dyskinesia and Hemifacial Spasm Secondary to Fourth Ventricular Tumor: Report of 4 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Cai Yingjie , Ge Ming , QI Xiang , Sun Hailang , Zhang Di
Published: August 2019

In clinical pediatric neurosurgery practice, fourth ventricle and cerebellar tumors are not rare. However, reports of secondary refractory hemifacial spasm are very rare. No report is currently available on the treatment of hemifacial spasm secondary to fourth ventricle and cerebellar tumors in China. Zamponi et al. [Childs Nerv Syst 2011 Jun;27(6):1001–5] reported that these lesions can occur in neonates and infants, and surgical resection is effective.
Association of Leukocyte Telomere Length with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease: Role of Folate and Homocysteine
Authors: Ma Fei , Lv Xin , Du Yue , Chen Hui , Liu Shuai , Zhao Jiangang , Gao Yiming , An Peilin , Zhou Xuan , Song Aili , Sun Changqing , Wang Guangshun , Ji Yong , Wang Xinyan , Xu Weili , Huang Guowei
Published: August 2019

Background: Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) is associated with the aging process and age-related degenerative diseases. The relation of peripheral blood LTL to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and the role of folate and homocysteine (Hcy) in this relation remain unclear. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the association between LTL and the risks of MCI/AD, and to explore whether folate and Hcy may play a role in this association. Methods: This case-control study included 129 MCI subjects, 131 AD patients and 134 healthy controls. LTL was assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction assay. Serum folate levels were tested by chemiluminescence enzyme immunoassay, and serum Hcy levels were measured using the enzymatic cycling method. Data were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression and multivariable linear regression with adjustment for potential confounders. Results: The mean LTL was 1.56 ± 0.25 in controls, 1.44 ± 0.23 in MCI, and 1.28 ± 0.28 in AD patients (p< 0.01). In multivariate logistic regression, subjects in the longest LTL tertile had lower OR for MCI (OR 0.246; 95% CI 0.101–0.597) and AD (OR 0.123; 95% CI 0.044–0.345) in comparison to subjects in the shortest tertile. Shorter LTL was dose-dependently related to the ORs of MCI and AD. Further, serum folate concentration was positively associated with LTL (p < 0.01), while serum Hcy level was negatively associated with LTL (p < 0.05). In stratified analyses, LTL-MCI/AD association varied by serum folate and Hcy level. Conclusions: Shorter LTL is associated with the risks of MCI/AD. Folate and Hcy might play an important role in this association.
The Role of Anxiety Sensitivity and Expectancy Manipulation on Panic-Like Response to the 35% CO2 Challenge in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Cosci Fiammetta , Bertoli Giuly , Mansueto Giovanni , Asiaghi Martina , Schruers Koen , Nardi Antonio E.
Published: August 2019

Background: The 35% CO2 challenge is a well-established method triggering panic attacks under laboratory-controlled conditions. There is an ongoing debate whether single or the joined effects of the instructional set and anxiety sensitivity (AS) can alter the outcome of the challenge. Objectives: The present study investigated the effects of instruction manipulation and AS on panic-like response to the 35% CO2 challenge. Methods: Eighty healthy subjects, with high or low levels of AS, were randomized into 4 groups based on standard/manipulated instructional sets as well as 35% CO2 mixture/room air inhalation. Subjects filled in the Visual Analogue Scale of Anxiety (VAAS), the Visual Analogue Scale of Fear (VAS-F), the VAS of Discomfort (VAS-D), and the Panic Symptom List (PSL). Blood pressure and heart rate were measured at pre- and posttest. Results: Hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed greater psychological responses at VAAS, VAS-F, VAS-D, and PSL and higher systolic blood pressure under 35% CO2 challenge if compared to room air inhalation while instructional set and AS did not influence the response. Conclusions: The present study confirms that neither instructional test nor AS alter the outcome of the 35% CO2 challenge.
ТРАНСФОРМУВАННЯ ЗНАНЬ З АТЕРОГЕНЕЗУ: ВИКОРИСТАННЯ НАНО-АСОЦІЙОВАНИХ БІОТЕХНОЛОГІЙ І МЕРЕЖЕВОГО АНАЛІЗУ
Authors: Mintser O. P. , Zaliskyi V. M.
Published: August 2019

Розглянуто питання змінення знань про виникнення, розвиток і можливості профілактики атеросклерозу. Показано, що концепція про роль запалення як тригера ядра серцево-судинних захворювань на даний час має першочергове значення. Постулюється також, що мікроби можуть впливати на атерогенез різними прямими або непрямими засобами, тому, їх слід враховувати в якості факторів, сприяючих прогресуванню атеросклерозу. Отже, концепція сприяє подальшому дослідженню в зазначеній області. Підкреслюється думка, що печінковий рецептор LXRs лежить на перетині ліпідного обміну, вродженого імунітету, запалення та практично всіх основних шляхів розвитку атеросклеротичних уражень і серцево-судинних захворювань. Важливо зосередити увагу на процесах нано опосередкованого виявлення та терапевтичного контролю розвитку атеросклерозу за допомогою таргетування клітин (макрофагів інтими, «пінистих» клітин, ендотеліоцитів) і процесів (неоангіогенезу, протеолізу, апоптозу, тромбозу, метаболізму ліпопротеїнів високої щільності (HDL) і запалення).
ПЕРСОНІФІКОВАНА МЕДИЦИНА ЯК ГЛОБАЛЬНА ОБ'ЄДНУЮЧА МЕТА РОЗВИТКУ СТРАХОВОЇ ТА СИСТЕМНОЇ МЕДИЦИНИ
Authors: Mintser O.P. , Gorshkov Ye. V. , Tverdokhlib O. I. , Popova M. A. , Hanynets P. P. , Sarkanych O. V.
Published: August 2019

Розглянуто проблеми аналізу можливостей знаходження ресурсів для забезпечення фінансування галузі охорони здоров'я, в першу чергу, шляхом впровадження страхової медицини. Підкреслено, що глобальною метою стратегічного розвитку страхової та системної медицини має стати персоналізована медицина. Проаналізовані аспекти виникнення морального ризику. Визначена мета впровадження онтологій медичних знань.
Transient Focal Ischemia Significantly Alters the m
6
A Epitranscriptomic Tagging of RNAs in the Brain
Authors: Chokkalla Anil K. , Mehta Suresh L. , Kim TaeHee , Chelluboina Bharath , Kim Jooyong , Vemuganti Raghu
Published: August 2019

Background and Purpose—

Adenosine in many types of RNAs can be converted to m
6
A (N
6
-methyladenosine) which is a highly dynamic epitranscriptomic modification that regulates RNA metabolism and function. Of all organs, the brain shows the highest abundance of m
6
A methylation of RNAs. As recent studies showed that m
6
A modification promotes cell survival after adverse conditions, we currently evaluated the effect of stroke on cerebral m
6
A methylation in mRNAs and lncRNAs.

Methods—

Adult C57BL/6J mice were subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. In the peri-infarct cortex, m
6
A levels were measured by dot blot analysis, and transcriptome-wide m
6
A changes were profiled using immunoprecipitated methylated RNAs with microarrays (44 122 mRNAs and 12 496 lncRNAs). Gene ontology analysis was conducted to understand the functional implications of m
6
A changes after stroke. Expression of m
6
A writers, readers, and erasers was also estimated in the ischemic brain.

Results—

Global m
6
A levels increased significantly at 12 hours and 24 hours of reperfusion compared with sham. While 139 transcripts (122 mRNAs and 17 lncRNAs) were hypermethylated, 8 transcripts (5 mRNAs and 3 lncRNAs) were hypomethylated (>5-fold compared with sham) in the ischemic brain at 12 hours reperfusion. Inflammation, apoptosis, and transcriptional regulation are the major biological processes modulated by the poststroke differentially m
6
A methylated mRNAs. The m
6
A writers were unaltered, but the m
6
A eraser (fat mass and obesity-associated protein) decreased significantly after stroke compared with sham.

Conclusions—

This is the first study to show that stroke alters the cerebral m
6
A epitranscriptome, which might have functional implications in poststroke pathophysiology.

Visual Overview—

An online
visual overview
is available for this article.
La quête des κειµήλια dans l’épopée homérique
Authors: Patera Ioanna
Published: August 2019

The term κειµήλιον is usually translated as treasure or heirloom. It would designate treasured precious objects conveying the memory and history of their past owners. In the Homeric poems, the κειµήλια are signs of the wealth and status of those who own them. They are described as many and beautiful, stored in the treasures of palaces. They are given as valued gifts to new or old friends and as ransoms. Κειµήλια do not, moreover, form a definite category of specific types of objects. Their value becomes clear in the hierarchy of prizes awarded in contests. Heroes look after them and travel to collect them. The uses of the κειµήλια and of the various terms used according to circumstances to connote memory (µνήµατα), gift giving (δῶρα), or possession and profit (κτήµατα/ κτέανα) allow reconsidering the category of the κειµήλια as well as the behaviour of the Homeric heroes.
Redefining Stagonomus Gorski based on morphological and molecular data (Pentatomidae: Eysarcorini)
Authors: ROCA-CUSACHS MARCOS , JUNG SUNGHOON
Published: August 2019

After reconstructing the phylogenetic relationships among the closely related genera Carbula Stål, Eysarcoris Hahn, and Stagonomus Gorski (tribe Eysarcorini), using the mitochondrial genes: 16S rRNA and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI), and incorporating morphological characters to contrast our data, we transfer the species Eysarcoris gibbosus Jakovlev and Eysarcoris venustissimus (Schrank) to the genus Stagonomus, and we propose to place the subgenus Dalleria Mulsant & Rey as a synonym under the nominal subgenus Stagonomus. Additionally, Stagonomus is redefined to include diagnostic characters of the male genitalia.
Two new species of Sclerothyone from the southwestern Atlantic Ocean, with a key to genera and species of Sclerothyoninae (Holothuroidea: Dendrochirotida: Sclerodactylidae)
Authors: MARTINS LUCIANA , TAVARES MARCOS
Published: August 2019

Sclerothyone Thandar, 1989, currently restricted to two South African species, is here expanded to include two new species from off coast of Brazil. These new species expand the distribution of the genus to the southwestern Atlantic Ocean. Sclerothyone reichi sp. nov. is characterized by having body wall with multilocular two pillared tables with multiperforate disc and short spire, ending in a narrow crown of teeth; tentacles with rods and introvert with two pillared tables and rosettes; tube feet with only end plates. Sclerothyone oloughlini sp. nov. is distinctive in having a body wall with multilocular, two pillared tables; handles present and multilocular two-pillared tables; circular disc without handle; and plates (near the anus). The new species resemble each other in the tentacles with rods. However, Sclerothyone oloughlini sp. nov. stands apart from S. reichi sp. nov. in the introvert with rosettes; tube feet with two pillared supporting tables, arched plates and end plates. The possible assignment of Cucumaria nozawai Mitsukuri, 1912 and Thyone adinopoda Pawson & Miller, 1981 to Sclerothyone, and the position of Thyone neofusus Deichmann, 1941 in Temparena Thandar, 1989, are briefly discussed. A key to all genera and species of Sclerodactylinae is provided.
Ixodes barkeri n. sp. (Acari: Ixodidae) from the short-beaked echidna, Tachyglossus aculeatus, with a revised key to the male Ixodes of Australia, and list of the subgenera and species of Ixodes known to occur in Australia
Authors: BARKER DAYANA
Published: August 2019

A new species of Ixodes is described from two male specimens that have a distinctive ventrolateral horn-like projection on palpal article 1. This structure is not found in any other Australian species, but is similar to that of I. zaglossi Kohls, 1960 from the long-beaked echidna of Papua New Guinea. I present a revised key to accommodate the five males of Australian Ixodes described or re-described since 1970. I also briefly review the 26 Australian species of Ixodes.
The City within the City: A Glimpse of Elite Formation in Deptford, London and Dadaocheng, Taipei
Authors: Alsford Niki J. P.
Published: August 2019

The turn of the twentieth century witnessed a significant expansion of both Deptford in southeast London and the market town of Dadaocheng in northern Taiwan. A factor that unites the two can arguably be found in both historically avoiding becoming part of the cities to which they now belong. The collective desire of their more well-to-do residents to shape an urban modern space that could fit their aspirations transcended national boundaries. Defined as the “urban elite,” the more notable residents were both globally situated and connected. They lived in a modernity that was self-defined and interpreted, one that was differentiated across a range of institutions: family life, economic and political structures, education, mass communication, and individual orientation. The purpose of this article, therefore, is to argue that these arenas should be understood as a narrative of continual design and redesign. What is more, they were essentially marshaled by a rising new urban middle class. The fortunes that they acquired were a result of their connections to the town they helped mold and transform. Using social elite theory, this article will argue that if the social, economic, and political conditions across areas are similar, people will behave in comparable ways with only contextual differences. In the case of Taiwan, attention to this overlooked aspect of its social history is important in helping to situate the island in global comparisons.