bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attention Deficit Disorder and Allergic Rhinitis: Are They Related?
Authors: Melamed Isaac , Heffron Melinda
Published: October 2016

The association between ADHD and allergy remains controversial. Our previous findings suggest that nerve growth factor may link the nervous and immune systems. The primary objective of this study was to determine if a combination of cetirizine + methylphenidate is effective in children with comorbid ADHD and allergic rhinitis. We also examined the role of nerve growth factor in these comorbidities. Our randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study enrolled 38 children diagnosed with comorbid ADHD and allergy using cetirizine (n=12), sustained-release methylphenidate (n=12), or cetirizine + methylphenidate (n=14). Endpoints compared baseline to posttreatment evaluations for allergic rhinitis and ADHD scores. Serum nerve growth factor levels were measured using ELISA. For allergy endpoints, combination therapy produced results superior to individual therapy. For ADHD, similar scores were achieved for individual therapy; however, combination therapy resulted in improved scores. Nerve growth factor levels were downregulated following this trend. We conclude that ADHD and allergic rhinitis may have common mechanism and represent a comorbid condition that links the nervous system to the immune system. Further studies are needed.
Observer Based Optimal Vibration Control of a Full Aircraft System Having Active Landing Gears and Biodynamic Pilot Model
Authors: Yazici Hakan , Sever Mert
Published: October 2016

This paper deals with the design of an observed based optimal state feedback controller having pole location constraints for an active vibration mitigation problem of an aircraft system. An eleven-degree-of-freedom detailed full aircraft mathematical model having active landing gears and a seated pilot body is developed to control and analyze aircraft vibrations caused by runway excitation, when the aircraft is taxiing. Ground induced vibration can contribute to the reduction of pilot’s capability to control the aircraft and cause the safety problem before take-off and after landing. Since the state variables of the pilot body are not available for measurement in practice, an observed based optimal controller is designed via Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs) approach. In addition, classical LQR controller is designed to investigate effectiveness of the proposed controller. The system is then simulated against the bump and random runway excitation. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed controller provides significant improvements in reducing vibration amplitudes of aircraft fuselage and pilot’s head and maintains the safety requirements in terms of suspension stroke and tire deflection.
A Strong Robust Zero-Watermarking Scheme Based on Shearlets’ High Ability for Capturing Directional Features
Authors: Zhao Jian , Xu Wensheng , Zhang Shunli , Fan Shuaishuai , Zhang Wanru
Published: October 2016

Zero-watermarking is a blind digital watermarking method. It has reached the point where the robustness and the imperceptibility can arrive at a good balance. In this paper, a strong robust zero-watermarking scheme is proposed which employs multiresolution and multiscale representation characteristics of nonsubsampled shearlet transform to analyze the direction features of the given image. The effectiveness of the proposed scheme for dealing with many kinds of attack such as compression, noise addition, and scaling is demonstrated by the experimental results. When compared with other zero-watermarking schemes using counterpart transforms like discrete wavelet transform, the experimental results show that the proposed watermarking scheme can get better performance.
Nucleotide Analogue-Related Proximal Renal Tubular Dysfunction during Long-Term Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sobhonslidsuk Abhasnee , Wanichanuwat Jirachaya , Numthavaj Pawin , Sophonsritsuk Areepan , Petraksa Supanna , Pugasub Alongkorn , Jittorntam Paisan , Kongsomgan Anucha , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Phakdeekitcharoen Bunyong
Published: October 2016

Background. There have been few reports of nucleotide analogue-related renal tubular dysfunction (RTD) in CHB patients. We assessed the prevalence and presentation of nucleotide analogue-related proximal RTD.Methods. A cross-sectional study was performed in CHB patients taking nucleotide analogues. Inclusion criteria were patients who were on adefovir or tenofovir as mono- or add-on therapy with lamivudine (LAM) >1 year. Serum and urine were collected. Fractional excretion of phosphate (FEPO4), uric acid (FEUA), and potassium was calculated. Renal losses were defined based on the criteria: protein (24-hour urine protein >150 mg), glucose (glycosuria with normoglycemia), phosphate (FEPO4>18%), uric acid (FEUA >15%), potassium (renal potassium losses with hypokalemia), and bicarbonate (normal gap acidosis). Subclinical and overt proximal RTD were defined when 2 and ≥3 criteria presented.Results. Ninety-two patients were enrolled. The mean duration of nucleotide analogue taking was55.1±29.6months. Proximal RTD was found in 24 (26.1%) patients (subclinical 15 (16.3%) and overt 9 (9.8%)). The severity of RTD was associated with the duration of nucleotide analogue (P=0.01).Conclusions. The prevalence of proximal RTD in CHB patients taking nucleotide analogues was 26%. The severity of RTD was associated with the treatment duration. Comprehensive testing is necessary for early detecting nucleotide analogue-related nephrotoxicity.
Combined Annoyance Assessment of Subway Train-Induced Structural Vibration and Ambient Noise
Authors: Sun Ke , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2016

The subway train-induced structural vibration and ambient noise may cause annoyance and other negative influences on the human body. Presently, limited models have been developed to execute the quantitative evaluation of the combined annoyance caused by both structural vibration and ambient noise. In this study, a fuzzy membership function and normal distribution function were coupled to describe the fuzziness and randomness of human annoyance responses; a novel annoyance evaluation model was proposed to assess the structural vibration and ambient noise; and the annoyance of human was classified into six grades. Subsequently, we integrated an actual case into this study to calculate and analyze the combined annoyance degree. The applied results were compared with the standard limits, in which the rationality and superiority of the proposed model were verified. The results exhibit the notion that the proposed models perform well and can serve as a reference for spatial planning and development in the nearby subway environment.
A Study on Characteristic Roots of Lattice Matrices
Authors: Varkey Thomas Kapiarumalayil , Joy Geena
Published: October 2016

This paper deals with the characteristic roots of different types of lattice matrices and proves that a matrix and its transpose have the same characteristic roots. Also this paper introduces the concept of similar lattice matrices and proves that similar lattice matrices have the same characteristic roots.
Developmental Toxicity of Carbon Quantum Dots to the Embryos/Larvae of Rare Minnow (Gobiocypris rarus)
Authors: Xiao Yuan-Yuan , Liu Li , Chen Yao , Zeng Yu-Lian , Liu Ming-Zhi , Jin Li
Published: October 2016

The toxic effects of CDs on rare minnow (Gobiocypris rarus) embryos at different developmental stages were investigated. The results showed that rare minnow embryos had decreased spontaneous movements, body length, increased heart rate, pericardial edema, yolk sac edema, tail/spinal curvature, various morphological malformations, and decreased hatching rate. Biochemical analysis showed the CDs exposure significantly inhibited the activity of Na+/K+-ATPase and Ca2+-ATPase and increased the MDA contents and the activity of SOD, CAT, and GPX. Further examination suggested that the CDs exposure induced serious embryonic cellular DNA damage. Moreover, the CDs exposure induced upregulation of development related genes (Wnt8aandMstn) along with the downregulation ofVezf1. Overall, the present study revealed that the CDs exposure has significant development toxicity on rare minnow embryos/larvae. Mechanistically, this toxicity might result from the pressure of induced oxidative stress coordinate with the dysregulated development related gene expression mediated by the CDs exposure.
Multimodality Cardiac Imaging in a Patient with Kawasaki Disease and Giant Aneurysms
Authors: Srinivasan Ranjini , Weller Rachel , Chelliah Anjali , Einstein Andrew J.
Published: October 2016

Kawasaki disease is a well-known cause of acquired cardiac disease in the pediatric and adult population, most prevalent in Japan but also seen commonly in the United States. In the era of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment, the morbidity associated with this disease has decreased, but it remains a serious illness. Here we present the case of an adolescent, initially diagnosed with Kawasaki disease as an infant, that progressed to giant aneurysm formation and calcification of the coronary arteries. We review his case and the literature, focusing on the integral role of multimodality imaging in managing Kawasaki disease.
Association of the Aspartate Aminotransferase to Alanine Aminotransferase Ratio with BNP Level and Cardiovascular Mortality in the General Population: The Yamagata Study 10-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Yokoyama Miyuki , Watanabe Tetsu , Otaki Yoichiro , Takahashi Hiroki , Arimoto Takanori , Shishido Tetsuro , Miyamoto Takuya , Konta Tsuneo , Shibata Yoko , Daimon Makoto , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Kato Takeo , Kayama Takamasa , Kubota Isao
Published: October 2016

Background. Early identification of high risk subjects for cardiovascular disease in health check-up is still unmet medical need. Cardiovascular disease is characterized by the superior increase in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to alanine aminotransferase (ALT). However, the association of AST/ALT ratio with brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels and cardiovascular mortality remains unclear in the general population. Methods and Results. This longitudinal cohort study included 3,494 Japanese subjects who participated in a community-based health check-up, with a 10-year follow-up. The AST/ALT ratio increased with increasing BNP levels. And multivariate logistic analysis showed that the AST/ALT ratio was significantly associated with a high BNP (≥100 pg/mL). There were 250 all-cause deaths including 79 cardiovascular deaths. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis revealed that a high AST/ALT ratio (>90 percentile) was an independent predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality after adjustment for confounding factors. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that cardiovascular mortality was higher in subjects with a high AST/ALT ratio than in those without. Conclusions. The AST/ALT ratio was associated with an increase in BNP and was predictive of cardiovascular mortality in a general population. Measuring the AST/ALT ratio during routine health check-ups may be a simple and cost-effective marker for cardiovascular mortality.
Transcriptome-Based Analysis of Dof Family Transcription Factors and Their Responses to Abiotic Stress in Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Li Hui , Huang Wei , Liu Zhi-Wei , Wang Yong-Xin , Zhuang Jing
Published: October 2016

Tea plant (Camellia sinensis(L.) O. Kuntze) is affected by abiotic stress during its growth and development. DNA-binding with one finger (Dof) transcription factors (TFs) play important roles in abiotic stress tolerance of plants. In this study, a total of 29 putative Dof TFs were identified based on transcriptome of tea plant, and the conserved domains and common motifs of these CsDof TFs were predicted and analyzed. The 29 CsDof proteins were divided into 7 groups (A, B1, B2, C1, C2.1, C2.2, and D2), and the interaction networks of Dof proteins inC. sinensiswere established according to the data inArabidopsis. Gene expression was analyzed in “Yingshuang” and “Huangjinya” under four experimental stresses by qRT-PCR.CsDofgenes were expressed differentially and related to different abiotic stress conditions. In total, our results might suggest that there is a potential relationship between CsDof factors and tea plant stress resistance.
Roles of Zinc Signaling in the Immune System
Authors: Hojyo Shintaro , Fukada Toshiyuki
Published: October 2016

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient for basic cell activities such as cell growth, differentiation, and survival. Zn deficiency depresses both innate and adaptive immune responses. However, the precise physiological mechanisms of the Zn-mediated regulation of the immune system have been largely unclear. Zn homeostasis is tightly controlled by the coordinated activity of Zn transporters and metallothioneins, which regulate the transport, distribution, and storage of Zn. There is growing evidence that Zn behaves like a signaling molecule, facilitating the transduction of a variety of signaling cascades in response to extracellular stimuli. In this review, we highlight the emerging functional roles of Zn and Zn transporters in immunity, focusing on how crosstalk between Zn and immune-related signaling guides the normal development and function of immune cells.
An Engineering Perspective of External Cardiac Loop Recorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Srinivasulu Avvaru , Sriraam N.
Published: October 2016

External cardiac loop recorder (ELR) is a kind of ECG monitoring system that records cardiac activities of a subject continuously for a long time. When the heart palpitations are not the frequent and nonspecific character, it is difficult to diagnose the disease. In such a case, ELR is used for long-term monitoring of heart signal of the patient. But the cost of ELR is very high. Therefore, it is not prominently available in developing countries like India. Since the design of ELR includes the ECG electrodes, instrumentation amplifier, analog to digital converter, and signal processing unit, a comparative review of each part of the ELR is presented in this paper in order to design a cost effective, low power, and compact kind of ELR. This review will also give different choices available for selecting and designing each part of the ELR system. Finally, the review will suggest the better choice for designing a cost effective external cardiac loop recorder that helps to make it available even for rural people in India.
Evaluation of Contrast Sensitivity, Chromatic Vision, and Reading Ability in Patients with Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Bambo Maria P. , Ferrandez Blanca , Güerri Noemi , Fuertes Isabel , Cameo Beatriz , Polo Vicente , Larrosa Jose M. , Garcia-Martin Elena
Published: October 2016

Purpose. To compare contrast sensitivity, acquired color vision deficiency, and reading ability in patients with glaucoma at different stages of the disease and to establish correlations between visual field parameters and visual function scores.Methods. This prospective cross-sectional study included 121 glaucoma patients. Subjects with a diagnosis of chronic open angle glaucoma were recruited and classified according to Hodapp-Parrish-Anderson criteria. Patients with severe visual field defects were excluded because they were older, which could bias the interpretation of visual function tests. Contrast sensitivity was measured using the Pelli-Robson Chart and the CSV1000E test. Chromatic vision was evaluated using the Farnsworth-panel D15 and the L’Anthony D15 tests of Vision Color Recorder software. Reading ability was measured using Radner-Vissum test.Results. Contrast sensitivity (with photopic and mesopic luminance with glare) differed significantly between patients with early and moderate visual field defects (p<0.05). Reading ability scores and results of the chromatic vision tests did not differ significantly between the two groups. Significant and moderate Spearman correlations between visual field indexes and contrast sensitivity tests were detected.Conclusions. Contrast sensitivity was significantly worse in patients with moderate glaucoma compared to those with early-stage glaucoma. Evaluation of visual function in clinical practice provides important information to address a glaucoma patient’s vision complaints.
Comparison of Electronic Structure and Magnetic Properties of Few Layer Graphene and Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Ray Sekhar Chandra
Published: October 2016

A comparative study has been made for the non-catalyst based few layer graphene (FLG) and Fe-catalyst based multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Magnetic and electronic properties of FLG and MWCNTs were studied using magnetic M-H hysteresis loops and synchrotron radiation based X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy measurements. Structural defects and electronic and bonding properties of FLG/MWCNTs have been studied using Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS). The work functions of FLG and MWCNTs are 4.01 eV and 3.79 eV, respectively, obtained from UPS (He-I) spectra. UPS (He-II) results suggest that the density of states (DOS) of MWCNTs is higher than FLG and is consistent with Raman spectroscopy result that shows the defect of MWCNTs is higher than FLG. The magnetic coercivity (Hc) of the MWCNTs (~750 Oe) is higher than FLG (~85 Oe) which could be used for various technological magnetic applications.
Visual and Quantitative Analysis Methods of Respiratory Patterns for Respiratory Gated PET/CT
Authors: Son Hye Joo , Jeong Young Jin , Yoon Hyun Jin , Park Jong-Hwan , Kang Do-Young
Published: October 2016

We integrated visual and quantitative methods for analyzing the stability of respiration using four methods: phase space diagrams, Fourier spectra, Poincaré maps, and Lyapunov exponents. Respiratory patterns of 139 patients were grouped based on the combination of the regularity of amplitude, period, and baseline positions. Visual grading was done by inspecting the shape of diagram and classified into two states: regular and irregular. Quantitation was done by measuring standard deviation ofxandvcoordinates of Poincaré map (SDx, SDv) or the height of the fundamental peak (A1) in Fourier spectrum or calculating the difference between maximal upward and downward drift. Each group showed characteristic pattern on visual analysis. There was difference of quantitative parameters (SDx, SDv,A1, and MUD-MDD) among four groups (one way ANOVA,p=0.0001for MUD-MDD, SDx, and SDv,p=0.0002forA1). In ROC analysis, the cutoff values were 0.11 for SDx(AUC: 0.982,p<0.0001), 0.062 for SDv(AUC: 0.847,p<0.0001), 0.117 forA1(AUC: 0.876,p<0.0001), and 0.349 for MUD-MDD (AUC: 0.948,p<0.0001). This is the first study to analyze multiple aspects of respiration using various mathematical constructs and provides quantitative indices of respiratory stability and determining quantitative cutoff value for differentiating regular and irregular respiration.
SenSafe: A Smartphone-Based Traffic Safety Framework by Sensing Vehicle and Pedestrian Behaviors
Authors: Liu Zhenyu , Wu Mengfei , Zhu Konglin , Zhang Lin
Published: October 2016

Traffic accident involving vehicles is one of the most serious problems in the transportation system nowadays. How to detect dangerous steering and then alarm drivers in real time is a problem. What is more, walking while using smartphones makes pedestrian more susceptible to various risks. Although dedicated short range communication (DSRC) provides the way for safety communications, most of vehicles have not been deployed with DSRC components. Even worse, DSRC is not supported by the smartphones for vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P) communication. In this paper, a smartphone-based framework named SenSafe is developed to improve the traffic safety. SenSafe is a framework which only utilizes the smartphone to sense the surrounding events and provides alerts to drivers. Smartphone-based driving behaviors detection mechanism is developed inside the framework to discover various steering behaviors. Besides, the Wi-Fi association and authentication overhead is reduced to broadcast the compressed sensing data using the Wi-Fi beacon to inform the drivers of the surroundings. Furthermore, a collision estimation algorithm is designed to issue appropriate warnings. Finally, an Android-based implementation of SenSafe framework has been achieved to demonstrate the application reliability in real environments.
Multifunctional Thioredoxin-Like Protein from the Gastrointestinal Parasitic NematodesStrongyloides rattiandTrichuris suisAffects Mucosal Homeostasis
Authors: Ditgen Dana , Anandarajah Emmanuela M. , Hansmann Jan , Winter Dominic , Schramm Guido , Erttmann Klaus D. , Liebau Eva , Brattig Norbert W.
Published: October 2016

The cellular redox state is important for the regulation of multiple functions and is essential for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis and antioxidant defense. In the excretory/secretory (E/S) products ofStrongyloides rattiandTrichuris suissequences for thioredoxin (Trx) and Trx-like protein (Trx-lp) were identified. To characterize the antioxidant Trx-lp and its interaction with the parasite’s mucosal habitat,S. rattiandT. suisTrx-lps were cloned and recombinantly expressed. The primary antioxidative activity was assured by reduction of insulin and IgM. Further analysis applying anin vitromucosal 3D-cell culture model revealed that the secreted Trx-lps were able to bind to monocytic and intestinal epithelial cells and induce the time-dependent release of cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-22, and TSLP. In addition, the redox proteins also possessed chemotactic activity for monocytic THP-1 cells and fostered epithelial wound healing activity. These results confirm that the parasite-secreted Trx-lps are multifunctional proteins that can affect the host intestinal mucosa.
Physiotherapy Practice Patterns for Management of Patients Undergoing Thoracic Surgeries in India: A Survey
Authors: Sultanpuram Sagarika , Alaparthi Gopala Krishna , Krishnakumar Shyam Krishnan , Ottayil Zulfeequer C. P.
Published: October 2016

Aim. The aim of the current study is to determine the practice patterns of physiotherapists for patients undergoing thoracic surgeries in India.Materials and Methodology. A cross-sectional survey was conducted across India in which 600 questionnaires were sent in emails to physiotherapists. The questionnaire addressed assessment and treatment techniques of thoracic surgery.Results. A total of 234 completed questionnaires were returned with a response rate of 39%, with the majority of responses received from Telangana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. More than 90% of the responders practiced physical examination, chest expansion, chest X-ray, ABG analysis, pulmonary function test, and SpO2(oxygen saturation) as the assessment measures in both the pre- and the postoperative phase. Breathing exercises, incentive spirometry, thoracic expansion exercises, coughing and huffing, positioning, and modified postural drainage are found to be commonly used physiotherapy interventions, both pre- and postoperatively, with a response rate of more than 90%. A response rate of more than 84.6% indicated that patients are made to dangle their lower limbs over the edge of the bed on the 1st postoperative day. Mobilization, such as walking up to a chair, sit to stand exercises, and perambulation within the patient’s room, was started on the 2nd postoperative day, as stated by more than 65% of the physiotherapists. Staircase climbing was started on the 5th postoperative day. The most commonly used functional evaluation prior to discharge was 6-minute walk test. This was, in fact, practiced by 77.4% of the physiotherapists in their clinical settings.Conclusion. The most predominantly employed assessment measures included were physical examination, chest expansion, ABG analysis, pulmonary function test, chest X-ray, SpO2(oxygen saturation), peripheral muscle strength, and cardiopulmonary exercise. The physiotherapy interventions most commonly used were breathing exercises, thoracic expansion exercises, incentive spirometry, and coughing and huffing techniques, in both the pre- and the postoperative phase.
Molecular Pathways: The eIF4F Translation Initiation Complex—New Opportunities for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Malka-Mahieu Hélène , Newman Michelle , Désaubry Laurent , Robert Caroline , Vagner Stéphan
Published: October 2016

The eIF4F complex regulates the cap-dependent mRNA translation process. It is becoming increasingly evident that aberrant activity of this complex is observed in many cancers, leading to the selective synthesis of proteins involved in tumor growth and metastasis. The selective translation of cellular mRNAs controlled by this complex also contributes to resistance to cancer treatments, and downregulation of the eIF4F complex components can restore sensitivity to various cancer therapies. Here, we review the contribution of the eIF4F complex to tumorigenesis, with a focus on its role in chemoresistance as well as the promising use of new small-molecule inhibitors of the complex, including flavaglines/rocaglates, hippuristanol, and pateamine A. Clin Cancer Res; 23(1); 21–25. ©2016 AACR.
Expression of miR-18a and miR-210 in Normal Breast Tissue as Candidate Biomarkers of Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Shidfar Ali , Costa Fabricio F. , Scholtens Denise , Bischof Jared M. , Sullivan Megan E. , Ivancic David Z. , Vanin Elio F. , Soares Marcelo B. , Wang Jun , Khan Seema A.
Published: October 2016

miRNAs are noncoding RNAs with abnormal expression in breast cancer; their expression in high-risk benign breast tissue may relate to breast cancer risk. We examined miRNA profiles in contralateral unaffected breasts (CUB) of patients with breast cancer and validated resulting candidates in two additional sample sets. Expression profiles of 754 mature miRNAs were examined using TaqMan Low Density Arrays in 30 breast cancer samples [15 estrogen receptor (ER)-positive and 15 ER-negative] and paired CUBs and 15 reduction mammoplasty controls. Pairwise comparisons identified miRNAs with significantly differential expression. Seven candidate miRNAs were examined using qRT-PCR in a second CUB sample set (40 cases, 20 ER+, 20 ER−) and 20 reduction mammoplasty controls. Further validation was performed in 80 benign breast biopsy (BBB) samples; 40 from cases who subsequently developed breast cancer and 40 from controls who did not. Logistic regression, using tertiles of miRNA expression, was used to discriminate cases from controls. Seven miRNAs were differentially expressed in tumors and CUBs versus reduction mammoplasty samples. Among them, miR-18a and miR-210 were validated in the second CUB set, showing significantly higher expression in tumor and CUBs than in reduction mammoplasty controls. The expression of miR-18a and miR-210 was also significantly higher in BBB cases than in BBB controls. When both miR-18a and miR-210 were expressed in the upper tertiles in BBB, OR for subsequent cancer was 3.20, P = 0.023. miR-18a and miR-210 are expressed at higher levels in CUBs of patients with breast cancer, and in BBB prior to cancer development, and are therefore candidate breast cancer risk biomarkers. Cancer Prev Res; 10(1); 89–97. ©2016 AACR.
Budgetary Impact Analysis of Reimbursement Varenicline for the Smoking-Cessation Treatment in Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus: A National Health System Perspective
Authors: Cedillo Sergio , Sicras-Mainar Antoni , Jiménez-Ruiz Carlos A. , Fernández de Bobadilla Jaime , Rejas-Gutiérrez Javier
Published: October 2016

Aims: The study aimed to assess the budgetary impact (BI) of reimbursing varenicline in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), type-2 diabetes mellitus (t2-DM) or cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Methods: The BI was estimated comparing the current non-reimbursed scenario versus a projected reimbursed scenario using the Spanish National Health System (SNHS) perspective. A hybrid model was developed using epidemiological data and Markov chains to estimate smoking cessation rates with varenicline during a 5-year horizon. Costs of cessation were considered in the reimbursement scenario only. Efficacy, expressed as a 1-year continuous abstinence rate, was derived from clinical trials. Cost savings due to smoking cessation were extracted from local cost-of-illness studies. Results are shown as incremental cost savings. Univariate sensitivity analysis was also applied. Results: A total of 68,684 patients stopped smoking in the reimbursed scenario compared with 15,208 without reimbursement. In the reimbursed scenario, total savings accounted for €36.3 million, showing 14.6 million accumulated additional savings compared with the scenario without reimbursement. Sensitivity analyses showed results to be robust with monetary savings starting in the third year of modeling. Conclusion: Reimbursement of varenicline in smoking cessation is a cost-effective health policy in the SNHS in COPD, t2-DM or CVD, and could produce cost savings starting in the third year of implementation.
Frontonasal Dysplasia: Towards an Understanding of Molecular and Developmental Aetiology
Authors: Farlie Peter G. , Baker Naomi L. , Yap Patrick , Tan Tiong Y.
Published: October 2016

The complex anatomy of the skull and face arises from the requirement to support multiple sensory and structural functions. During embryonic development, the diverse component elements of the neuro- and viscerocranium must be generated independently and subsequently united in a manner that sustains and promotes the growth of the brain and sensory organs, while achieving a level of structural integrity necessary for the individual to become a free-living organism. While each of these individual craniofacial components is essential, the cranial and facial midline lies at a structural nexus that unites these disparately derived elements, fusing them into a whole. Defects of the craniofacial midline can have a profound impact on both form and function, manifesting in a diverse array of phenotypes and clinical entities that can be broadly defined as frontonasal dysplasias (FNDs). Recent advances in the identification of the genetic basis of FNDs along with the analysis of developmental mechanisms impacted by these mutations have dramatically altered our understanding of this complex group of conditions.
Hypertrophic Pachymeningitis as an Early Manifestation of Relapsing Polychondritis: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Ushiyama Satoru , Kinoshita Tomomi , Shimojima Yasuhiro , Ohashi Nobuhiko , Kishida Dai , Miyazaki Daigo , Nakamura Katsuya , Sekijima Yoshiki , Ikeda Shu-ichi
Published: October 2016

Neurological involvement in relapsing polychondritis (RP) is relatively rare. We describe the case of an 80-year-old man who presented with hypertrophic pachymeningitis (HP) together with arthritis as the first manifestation of RP. Auricular chondritis, which subsequently determined the diagnosis of RP, occurred a few weeks after the detection of HP. The neurological symptoms, as well as arthritis, were promptly improved by treatment with corticosteroids. It is generally difficult to diagnose RP in the absence of typical cartilaginous involvement; however, the present case suggests that HP may occur as an early clinical manifestation of RP.
Two Frameshift Mutations in MKRN3 in Turkish Patients with Familial Central Precocious Puberty
Authors: Simsek Enver , Demiral Meliha , Ceylaner Serdar , Kırel Birgul
Published: October 2016

Background: Little is known about the genetic causes responsible for idiopathic central precocious puberty (iCPP). More recently, described loss-of-function mutations in the makorin ring finger protein 3 (MKRN3) gene have been demonstrated to be involved in the pathogenesis of familial iCPP. Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the potential role of MKRN3 in patients with familial iCPP. Methods: We investigated potential sequence variations in the maternal imprinted MKRN3 gene using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) analysis in 31 participants from 2 families (6 participants were diagnosed with familial iCPP on the basis of clinical and hormonal findings). Six patients diagnosed with familial iCPP and their unaffected first- and second-degree relatives, including their grandparents, were screened for MKRN3 gene variants. Results: Two heterozygous frameshift mutations (c.441_441delG, p.H148Tfs*23 and c803_803delAT, p.M268Vfs*23) were described in the MKRN3 gene in 2 probands with familial iCPP and in some of their family members. These frameshift mutations create a premature stop codon and result in a truncated protein. Conclusions: Our report further expands the MKRN3 gene mutation spectrum in patients with familial iCPP. Screening for potential MKRN3 variants should be performed in patients with familial iCPP as well as in patients with sporadic iCPP.
Inducing Sex Reversal in Marsupial Mammals
Authors: Chew Keng Y. , Renfree Marilyn B.
Published: October 2016

Marsupials are born with undifferentiated gonads, and their reproductive organs differentiate consecutively, not simultaneously as in eutherian mammals. Thus, in the main marsupial model, the tammar wallaby, Macropus eugenii, the testis forms cords 2 days after birth, the ovary develops cortex and medulla about 8 days after birth, the Wolffian duct enlarges from day 10, the prostate begins to form prostatic buds about 25 days after birth, and the phallus does not become sexually dimorphic until after 50 days postpartum (pp). The brain responses also become sexually dimorphic relatively late in development, after day 25 pp. This relatively elongated period of differentiation has allowed experimental manipulation at each stage of development to induce often dramatic sex reversal of both internal and external genitalia.
A Pediatric Patient with a CYP24A1 Mutation: Four Years of Clinical, Biochemical, and Imaging Follow-Up
Authors: Ertl Diana-Alexandra , Raimann Adalbert , Csaicsich Dagmar , Patsch Janina M. , Laccone Franco , Haeusler Gabriele
Published: October 2016

Background: A female infant was admitted to hospital due to failure to thrive. She presented hypercalcemia (4.09 mmol/L, normal range: 2.2-2.65 mmol/L), high 25-hydroxyvitamin D (283 nmol/L, normal range: 75-250 nmol/L), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D in the upper normal range, and low parathyroid hormone. Vitamin D intoxication was suspected. The patient had received routine rickets prophylaxis. Methods: Williams-Beuren syndrome was genetically excluded. Sequencing of CYP24A1 showed 2 mutations: c.443T>C and c.1186C>T. Results: The patient's clinical status improved after intravenous rehydration, cessation of supplementation, and on a low-calcium diet. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D concentrations normalized within days, while 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D remained in the upper normal range. We also investigated our patient's bone health. Conclusion: The patient was hospitalized initially on suspicion of vitamin D intoxication but proved to be a case of compound heterozygosity. Data on the long-term clinical and biochemical evolution of patients with idiopathic infantile hypercalcemia are sparse. Our follow-up showed seasonal variations of vitamin D and calcium parameters, with no influence on kidney function or bone health for the investigated period.
Effects of Maternal Valium Administration on Fetal MRI Motion Artifact: A Comparison Study at High Altitude
Authors: Meyers Mariana L. , Mirsky David M. , Dannull Kimberly A. , Tong Suhong , Crombleholme Timothy M.
Published: October 2016

Purpose: Fetal MRI is performed without sedation. In cases of maternal claustrophobia or when reduction of fetal motion is critical, benzodiazepines may help. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of low-dose benzodiazepine on fetal motion MRI and its effect on maternal oxygen levels at higher elevation. Methods: A total of 131 fetal MRI scans performed from March 2012 through December 2013 were studied. Nineteen of the cases were performed following Valium administration. Images were graded with a 5-point Likert scale. Using pulse oximetry, maternal oxygen levels were recorded. Results: Results were analyzed for each category combining 3 readers' interpretations. Using a 2-sample t test model, the average imaging scores were better for the control than the Valium group (p = 0.0139). Maternal oxygen levels at different times and positions were compared using independent 2-sample t test between the Valium and control groups showing no change in O2 saturation, except when controlling for altitude and gestational age (p = 0.0326). Conclusion: Administration of low-dose Valium did not decrease fetal motion on MRI. Valium did not pose any risk of maternal hypoxemia, except when controlling for altitude and gestational age on supine position. Thus, caution should be exercised to prevent the risk of fetal hypoxemia.
Design and Implementation of the Retinoblastoma Collaborative Laboratory
Authors: Qaiser Seemi , Limo Alice , Gichana Josiah , Kimani Kahaki , Githanga Jessie , Waweru Wairimu , Dimba Elizabeth A.O. , Dimaras Helen
Published: October 2016

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to describe the design and implementation of a digital pathology laboratory, the Retinoblastoma Collaborative Laboratory (RbCoLab) in Kenya. Method: The RbCoLab is a central lab in Nairobi that receives retinoblastoma specimens from all over Kenya. Specimens were processed using evidence-based standard operating procedures. Images were produced by a digital scanner, and pathology reports were disseminated online. Results: The lab implemented standard operating procedures aimed at improving the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of pathology reports, enhancing the care of Kenyan retinoblastoma patients. Integration of digital technology to support pathology services supported knowledge transfer and skills transfer. A bidirectional educational network of local pathologists and other clinicians in the circle of care of the patients emerged and served to emphasize the clinical importance of cancer pathology at multiple levels of care. A ‘Robin Hood' business model of health care service delivery was developed to support sustainability and scale-up of cancer pathology services. Discussion: The application of evidence-based protocols, comprehensive training, and collaboration were essential to bring improvements to the care of retinoblastoma patients in Kenya. When embraced as an integrated component of retinoblastoma care, digital pathology offers the opportunity for frequent connection and consultation for development of expertise over time.
Uveal Melanoma Regression after Brachytherapy: Relationship with Chromosome 3 Monosomy Status
Authors: Salvi Sachin M. , Aziz Hassan A. , Dar Suhail , Singh Nakul , Hayden-Loreck Brandy , Singh Arun D.
Published: October 2016

Aim: The objective was to evaluate the relationship between the regression rate of ciliary body melanoma and choroidal melanoma after brachytherapy and chromosome 3 monosomy status. Methods: We conducted a prospective and consecutive case series of patients who underwent biopsy and brachytherapy for ciliary/choroidal melanoma. Tumor biopsy performed at the time of radiation plaque placement was analyzed with fluorescence in situ hybridization to determine the percentage of tumor cells with chromosome 3 monosomy. The regression rate was calculated as the percent change in tumor height at months 3, 6, and 12. The relationship between regression rate and tumor location, initial tumor height, and chromosome 3 monosomy (percentage) was assessed by univariate linear regression (R version 3.1.0). Results: Of the 75 patients included in the study, 8 had ciliary body melanoma, and 67 were choroidal melanomas. The mean tumor height at the time of diagnosis was 5.2 mm (range: 1.90-13.00). The percentage composition of chromosome 3 monosomy ranged from 0-20% (n = 35) to 81-100% (n = 40). The regression of tumor height at months 3, 6, and 12 did not statistically correlate with tumor location (ciliary or choroidal), initial tumor height, or chromosome 3 monosomy (percentage). Conclusion: The regression rate of choroidal melanoma following brachytherapy did not correlate with chromosome 3 monosomy status.
A identidade latino-americana em Cem Anos de Solidão (1967), de Gabriel García Márquez
Authors: Silva Bruna Ferreira da
Published: October 2016

O artigo aborda o tema da identidade latino-americana no romance Cem anos de solidão (1967) de Gabriel García Márquez (1928-2014). A análise parte da ideia de que é possível utilizar uma fonte literária como documento para o historiador, ampliando o diálogo da História com a Literatura. A posição política de García Márquez, tendo como cenário a América Latina pós Revolução Cubana (1959), e sua proximidade ao governo e ideias de Fidel Castro, influem na proposta identitária construída pelo autor no romance, em concordância com o pensamento anti-imperialista de sua geração. Para García Márquez, a América Latina constitui sua identidade através da comum exploração e submissão que seus países enfrentaram diante das políticas intervencionistas estadunidenses, materializadas no romance através da empresa Companhia Bananeira, inspirada na United Fruit Company, símbolo da intervenção estadunidense, bem como da repressão aos trabalhadores locais e às ideias socialistas, recorte central deste artigo.
Synergy Between Tissue Factor and Exogenous Factor XIa in Initiating Coagulation
Authors: Leiderman Karin , Chang William C. , Ovanesov Mikhail , Fogelson Aaron L.
Published: October 2016

Objective—

Recent evidence suggests involvement of coagulation factor XIa (FXIa) in thrombotic event development. This study was conducted to explore possible synergies between tissue factor (TF) and exogenous FXIa (E-FXIa) in thrombin generation.

Approach and Results—

In thrombin generation assays, for increasing concentrations of E-FXIa with low, but not with high TF concentrations, peak thrombin significantly increased whereas lag time and time to peak significantly decreased. Similar dependencies of lag times and rates of thrombin generation were found in mathematical model simulations. In both in vitro and in silico experiments that included E-FXIa, thrombin bursts were seen for TF levels much lower than those required without E-FXIa. For in silico thrombin bursts initiated by the synergistic action of TF and E-FXIa, the mechanisms leading to the burst differed substantially from those for bursts initiated by high TF alone. For the synergistic case, sustained activation of platelet-bound FIX by E-FXIa, along with the feedback-enhanced activation of platelet-bound FVIIIa and FXa, was needed to elicit a thrombin burst. Furthermore, the initiation of thrombin bursts by high TF levels relied on different platelet FIX/FIXa binding sites than those involved in bursts initiated by low TF levels with E-FXIa.

Conclusions—

Low concentrations of TF and exogenous FXIa, each too low to elicit a burst in thrombin production alone, act synergistically when in combination to cause substantial thrombin production. The observation about FIX/FIXa binding sites may have therapeutic implications.
Zero Gravity, Anti-Mimesis and the Abolition of the Horizon: On Cosmokinetic Cabinet Noordung’s “Postgravity Art”
Authors: Arns Inke
Published: October 2016

This article presents the work of the retro-utopian Slovenian performance and theater collective Cosmokinetic Cabinet Noordung and its effort to abolish mimetic art in zero gravity (“postgravity art”). It describes the origin of a space station rotating around its own axis (designed in 1928 by Hermann Potočnik Noordung in The Problem of Space Travel); questions the relationship between zero gravity and the historical avant-garde (especially Suprematism) as postulated by theater director Dragan Živadinov; and sketches the past, present and future of the collective’s 50-year project Noordung 1995–2045.
Giorgio Scarpa’s Model of a Sea Urchin Inspires New Instrumentation
Authors: Trogu Pino
Published: October 2016

Giorgio Scarpa (1938–2012) was an Italian designer, artist and teacher who worked in bionics, topology and rotational geometry. This article describes Scarpa’s bionic model of “Aristotle’s lantern”—the mouth of the sea urchin. The technical literature on Echinoidea lacks a detailed study of its remarkable mouth mechanism. Scarpa’s model is the only known analysis and physical analogue of the mechanism. It is a striking example of geometrical analysis and craftsmanship, bridging science and art. Built in the early 1970s and described in 1985 in Modelli di Bionica, his model has inspired designs for a biopsy harvester and for a mini-rover to collect soil samples on Mars.
Manichaean Women in a Pseudo-Augustinian Testimony: An Analysis of the North African Testimonium de Manichaeis sectatoribus
Authors: van Oort Johannes
Published: October 2016

The article analyses the rather unknown and understudied Testimonium de Manichaeis sectatoribus. This Pseudo-Augustinian text has come down to us in two Latin manuscripts (one from Saint Gervais, Paris; the other from a Vatican codex) and interestingly elucidates the place and role of women among the Manichaeans of Roman Africa. Differences between the mss lead to the conclusion that, in all likelihood, the text underwent some ‘masculinisation’ in the course of its tradition. In its (in all probability) most original form, i.e., in the ms from Saint Gervais, Manichaean women appear to have played a major role. On the basis of the Testimonium, furthermore, it may be suggested that—at least in Roman Africa—female Manichaeans were (re)named with names that were highly symbolic to the ‘Religion of Light’.
The types of Phasmida in the Natural History Museum, London, UK
Authors: BROCK PAUL D. , MARSHALL JUDITH A. , BECCALONI GEORGE W. , HARMAN ALLAN J. E.
Published: October 2016

Type specimens of 437 Phasmida taxa have been located in the Natural History Museum, London (NHMUK, formerly BMNH), including 480 primary types of 372 taxa. Taxa with types are listed alphabetically by their specific or subspecific name, and the number of specimens, sex and locality data are given.
A new species of semi-terrestrial freshwater crab (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura: Potamidae) from the Central Highlands of Vietnam
Authors: DOWELD VAN TU , DANG VAN DONG , CAO THI KIM THU , HOANG NGOC KHAC
Published: October 2016

A new species of semi-terrestrial crab of the family Potamidae, Rathbunamon chumomrayense sp. nov. is described from Chu Mom Ray National Park, the Central Highlands of Vietnam. The new species can be distinguished from R. lacunifer (Rathbun, 1904), the only other species in the genus, by a suite of characters, including the slightly more rugose anterolateral regions, confluent epigastric and postorbital cristae that are sinuous, less convex anterolateral margins, relatively shorter fingers of the chelipeds, and the terminal segment of the male first gonopod being slightly curved outwards, with narrower dorsal flap.