bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Kinetics of selenite interactions with Boom Clay: adsorption–reduction interplay
Authors: Hoving Alwina L. , Münch Melanie A. , Bruggeman Christophe , Banerjee Dipanjan , Behrends Thilo 
Published: January 2019

Abstract

The speciation of selenium (Se) in clay-rich host rocks is important within the framework of geological disposal of radioactive waste since it affects its migration. Removal of selenite from formation water can be caused by reduction and adsorption. Reduction could potentially be inhibited or delayed by adsorption. Here, the interplay of adsorption and reduction of selenite was investigated in batch experiments with Boom Clay and its separated size fractions. In all experiments, dissolved Se concentrations (Se
aq
) showed a fast initial decrease that was followed by a slower decline until removal was almost complete. X-ray absorption spectroscopy indicated that adsorption of selenite accounted for the fast removal of Se
aq
followed by slower selenite reduction. Eventually, almost all solid-bound Se
IV
became reduced to Se
0
in all experiments. The progress of Se
aq
removal and Se
IV
reduction to Se
0
could be described by a kinetic model involving reversible adsorption on clay minerals and reduction by pyrite. This implies that the reduction of selenite to Se
0
is not significantly hindered or delayed by selenite adsorption on clay minerals. Pyrite is probably the most relevant reductant for selenite in Boom Clay, although reduction by Fe
II
structurally bound in clay minerals might provide an additional pathway for selenite reduction in clay rocks.
Myocardial Microvascular Dysfunction in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Amigues Isabelle , Russo Cesare , Giles Jon T. , Tugcu Aylin , Weinberg Richard , Bokhari Sabahat , Bathon Joan M. 
Published: January 2019

Background:
The goal of this study was to assess the prevalence of myocardial microvascular dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients without clinical cardiovascular disease and its association with RA characteristics and measures of cardiac structure and function.

Methods:
Participants with RA underwent rest and vasodilator stress N-13 ammonia positron emission tomography and echocardiography. Global myocardial blood flow was quantified at rest and during peak hyperemia. Myocardial flow reserve (MFR) was calculated as peak stress myocardial blood flow/rest myocardial blood flow. A small number of asymptomatic and symptomatic non-RA controls were also evaluated.

Results:

In RA patients, mean±SD MFR was 2.9±0.8, with 29% having reduced MFR (<2.5). Male sex and higher interleukin-6 were significantly associated with lower MFR, while the use of tumor necrosis factor inhibitors was associated with higher MFR. Lower MFR was associated with higher left ventricle mass index and higher left ventricle volumes but not with ejection fraction or diastolic dysfunction. RA and symptomatic controls had comparable MFR (mean±SD: 2.9±0.8 versus 2.55±0.6;
P
=0.48). In contrast, MFR was higher in the asymptomatic controls (mean±SD: 3.25±0.7) although not statistically different.

Conclusions:
Reduced MFR was observed in a third of RA patients without clinical cardiovascular disease and was associated with a measure of inflammation and with higher left ventricle mass and volumes. MFR in RA patients was similar to controls referred for clinical scans (symptomatic controls). Whether reduced MFR contributes to the increased risk for heart failure in RA remains unknown.
Time Course of Ischemic and Bleeding Burden in Elderly Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes Randomized to Low‐Dose Prasugrel or Clopidogrel
Authors: Crimi Gabriele , Morici Nuccia , Ferrario Maurizio , Ferri Luca A. , Piatti Luigi , Grosseto Daniele , Cacucci Michele , Mandurino Mirizzi Alessandro , Toso Anna , Piscione Federico , De Carlo Marco , Elia Luigi Raffaele , Trimarco Bruno , Bolognese Leonardo , Bovenzi Francesco M. , De Luca Giuseppe , Savonitto Stefano , De Servi Stefano 
Published: January 2019

Background

Elderly patients have high ischemic and bleeding rates after acute coronary syndrome; however, the occurrence of these complications over time has never been studied. This study sought to characterize average daily ischemic rates (
ADIRs
) and average daily bleeding rates (
ADBRs
) over 1 year in patients aged >74 years with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention who were randomized in the Elderly
ACS
2 trial, comparing low‐dose prasugrel (5 mg daily) with clopidogrel (75 mg daily).

Methods and Results

ADIRs
and
ADBRs
were calculated as the total number of events, including recurrent events, divided by the number of patient‐days of follow‐up and assessed within different clinical phases: acute (0–3 days), subacute (4–30 days), and late (31–365 days). Generalized estimating equations were used to test the least squares mean differences for the pairwise comparisons of
ADIRs
and
ADBRs
and the pairwise comparison of clopidogrel versus prasugrel effects. Globally,
ADIRs
were 2.6 times (95%
CI,
2.4–2.9) higher than
ADBRs
.
ADIRs
were significantly higher in the clopidogrel arm than in the low‐dose prasugrel arm in the subacute phase (
P
adj
<0.001) without a difference in
ADBRs
(
P
adj
=0.35). In the late phase,
ADIRs
remained significantly higher with clopidogrel (
P
adj
<0.001), whereas
ADBRs
were significantly higher with low‐dose prasugrel (
P
adj
<0.001).

Conclusions
Ischemic burden was greater than bleeding burden in all clinical phases of 1‐year follow‐up of elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome treated with percutaneous coronary intervention. Low‐dose prasugrel reduced ischemic events in the subacute and chronic phases compared with clopidogrel, whereas bleeding burden was lower with clopidogrel in the late phase.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
01777503.
Sovereignty and Capitalist Accumulation in Brazil’s Primary Sector
Authors: Pahnke Anthony 
Published: January 2019

Sovereignty conditions all aspects of the extractive process. That it underpins the dynamics of capitalist accumulation is apparent in the power that governments have to classify space, alienate certain areas for investment, and charge rents. A review of the large-scale land acquisitions and changes in the mining and oil and gas industries in Brazil from 2002 to 2016 shows that initiatives intended to curtail foreign investment actually stimulate foreign enterprises to engage in novel forms of capitalist accumulation. A soberania condiciona todos os aspectos do processo extrativo. Que ela sustenta as dinâmicas da acumulação capitalista é aparente no poder que os governos têm de classificar o espaço, abrir certas áreas de investimento, e cobrar aluguéis. Uma análise das aquisições de terras em larga escala e das mudanças nos setores de mineração, petróleo e gás no Brasil de 2002 a 2016 mostra que as iniciativas destinadas a restringir o investimento estrangeiro acabaram estimulando as empresas estrangeiras a se engajarem em novas formas de acumulação capitalista.
Toxicologic Pathology Forum*: Opinion on Considerations for the Use of Whole Slide Images in GLP Pathology Peer Review
Authors: Bradley Alys , Jacobsen Matt 
Published: January 2019

Whole slide imaging (WSI) technology has advanced to a point where it has replaced the glass slide as the primary means of pathology evaluation within many areas of medical pathology. The deployment of WSI in the field of toxicologic pathology has been delayed by a lack of clarity around the degree of validation required for its use on Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) studies. The current opinion piece attempts to provide a high-level overview of WSI technology to include basic methodology, advantages and disadvantages over a conventional microscope, validation status of WSI scanners, and perceived concerns over regulatory acceptance for the use of WSI for (GLP) peer review in the field of toxicologic pathology. Observations are based on the extensive use by AstraZeneca of WSI for the peer review of non-GLP studies conducted at Charles River facilities and represent the experiences of the authors. [Box: see text]
No Elevation of Glutathione S-transferase-A1-1 by Amiodarone Loading in Intensive Care Unit Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Hilkens M. , Pickkers P. , Peters W. H. M. , Van Der Hoeven J. G. 
Published: January 2019

Hepatocellular toxicity is a putative side-effect of amiodarone. The hepatic detoxification enzyme glutathione S-transferase-A1-1 (GSTA1-1) is a sensitive indicator of hepatocellular damage. We investigated the occurrence of subclinical liver injury, as measured by plasma GSTA1-1 in intensive care unit patients with atrial fibrillation receiving amiodarone. Sixteen haemodynamically stable intensive care unit patients with atrial fibrillation were treated with amiodarone intravenously. Patients were given a loading dose of 150 mg followed by another 150 mg followed by a continuous infusion of 1200 mg/hour if atrial fibrillation persisted. Blood samples for GSTA1-1 (measured by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) were taken at zero, one, three, six, 12 and 24 hours, transaminases and bilirubin at zero, six, 12 and 24 hours. Blood pressure and heart rate were continuously monitored. Effects were analysed for time-dependent changes (one-way analysis of variance for repeated measures). Blood pressure increased from 125±8/60±3 mmHg at t=0 to 144±9/66±4 mmHg at t=24 hours (P <0.05), heart rate decreased from atrial fibrillation 124±5 to sinus rhythm 86±6 beats per minute (P <0.05). There was no significant elevation of GSTA1-1, transaminases or bilirubin during the observation period of 24 hours. Amiodarone does not cause elevation of GSTA1-1 as a marker of subclinical liver injury in haemodynamically stable intensive care unit patients with atrial fibrillation.
Paracetamol Overdose: A Plan of Management
Authors: Benson R. E. , Boleyn T. 
Published: January 2019

Four cases of paracetamol overdose are described. The rationale for the use of dimercaprol, a sulphydryl-containing compound, as a specific antidote is discussed with reference to the pharmacodynamics of paracetamol. A recommended plan of management is presented.
Oxygen Saturation during General Anaesthesia and Recovery for Outpatient Oral Surgical Procedures
Authors: Hempenstall P. D. , de Plater R. M. H. 
Published: January 2019

Various factors have resulted in an increased demand for relatively minor surgical treatment requiring general anaesthesia to be carried out in the surgery on an outpatient basis. Previous studies have reported significant decreases in oxygen saturation in patients under intravenous sedation and in patients under general anaesthesia. This study examined the levels of oxygen saturations in outpatients undergoing oral surgical procedures under general anaesthesia. The results confirm the value of pulse oximetry and suggest that this mode of monitoring and the administration of supplemental oxygen be routinely utilised during the recovery period.
Comparison of Undifferentiated Versus Chondrogenic Predifferentiated Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived From Human Umbilical Cord Blood for Cartilage Repair in a Rat Model
Authors: Park Yong-Beom , Ha Chul-Won , Kim Jin-A , Kim Seongchan , Park Yong-Geun 
Published: January 2019

Background: Human umbilical cord blood–derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs) have gained much interest as a promising cell source for regenerative medicine owing to the noninvasive collection, availability, high expansion capacity, and low immunogenicity. However, few in vivo studies have reported the use of hUCB-MSCs on cartilage repair. Moreover, little study has been conducted on the effects of chondrogenic predifferentiation of hUCB-MSCs on cartilage repair. Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of transplanting undifferentiated versus chondrogenic predifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for treating osteochondral defects. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Critical-sized osteochondral defects were created in the trochlear grooves of rat femurs. In 20 rats, a composite of chondrogenic predifferentiated hUCB-MSCs (chondro-MSCs) and 4% hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel was transplanted into defects in the right knees, whereas undifferentiated hUCB-MSCs (undiff-MSCs) and 4% HA hydrogel were transplanted into the left knees. In the control groups, 4% HA hydrogel without MSCs was transplanted into defects in the right knees, and the defects in the left knees were left untreated in 20 rats. The cartilage repair was evaluated at 8 and 16 weeks after surgery. Results: Transplanting undiff-MSCs resulted in overall superior cartilage repair as compared with chondro-MSCs, HA alone, or no treatment. The articular surfaces of the defect sites in the undiff-MSC group were relatively smoother than those of the other treatments. The undiff-MSC group showed cellular morphology and arrangement similar to surrounding normal articular cartilage tissue at 16 weeks, both of which were also better than those of the other groups. In addition, the undiff-MSC group showed coloration similar to surrounding normal articular cartilage tissue at 16 weeks in safranin O and type II collagen immunohistochemical staining. The histological scores also revealed that cartilage repair with undiff-MSCs was better than that with chondro-MSCs, HA alone, or no treatment ( P < .05 in all). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that treatment with undiff-MSCs resulted in more favorable cartilage repair than that with chondro-MSCs in a rat model. These findings indicate that chondrogenic predifferentiation of MSCs before transplantation does not enhance cartilage repair. Clinical Relevance: The results of this study support the use of undifferentiated MSCs, rather than chondrogenic predifferentiated MSCs, as a stem cell therapy strategy for cartilage repair.
A new hydrophilic polysulfone hemodialysis membrane can prevent platelet–neutrophil interactions and successive neutrophil activation
Authors: Koga Yoko , Meguro Hiroyuki , Fujieda Hiroaki , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Miwa Keishi , Kainoh Mie 
Published: January 2019

Purpose: Microaggregates have often been observed during hemodialysis and are clearly associated with complications of hemodialysis therapy. In this study, we aimed to clarify the effects of two polysulfone membranes, with different abilities to activate blood cells, on the formation of these microaggregates; we also investigated their molecular mechanisms. Methods: Human whole blood was circulated through a mini-module dialyzer using the membranes in vitro; platelet–neutrophil complexes in blood were determined by flow cytometry. Isolated human neutrophils were incubated with the membranes in plasma, in the presence or absence of platelets, followed by flow cytometric analysis of intracellular reactive oxygen species and cell-surface activated CD11b on neutrophils. Results: CX-U, a conventional polysulfone membrane with remarkable cell activation, induced the formation of platelet–neutrophil complexes; however, NV-U, a new hydrophilic polysulfone membrane with slight or no cell activation, did not cause complex formation. Moreover, CX-U-induced reactive oxygen species production and the increase in activated CD11b expression on neutrophils were enhanced by platelets. On the other hand, NV-U hardly affected neutrophil activation, regardless of whether platelets were present or not. The enhancement of CX-U-induced neutrophil activations by platelets was greatly inhibited by anti-CD62P antibody. Conclusion: The ability of polysulfone membranes to activate blood cells is closely related to platelet–neutrophil interaction. Therefore, a biocompatible membrane, like NV-U, can be expected to prevent microaggregate formation during hemodialysis and avoid subsequent cell activation.
A Nationwide Comparison Between Sepsis-2 and Sepsis-3 Definition in Japan
Authors: Takauji Shuhei , Hayakawa Mineji , Fujita Satoshi 
Published: January 2019

Background: Currently, it remains controversial whether the Sepsis-3 definition provides the most appropriate criteria for clinical use. The purpose of this study was to compare between the Sepsis-2 and Sepsis-3 definitions using Japan’s nationwide registry. Methods: Data were obtained from a multicenter registry conducted at 42 intensive care units (ICUs) throughout Japan, in which patients received treatment for severe sepsis or septic shock between January 2011 and December 2013. Results: A total of 2797 patients diagnosed using the Sepsis-2 criteria were included in the present study. These patients were categorized into “Severe sepsis” (n = 1154) and “Sepsis-2 shock” (n = 1643) groups. Among the “Sepsis-2 shock” group, patients who did not meet the Sepsis-3 criteria for septic shock were categorized into the “Sepsis-2 shock-only” (n = 448, 27.3%) group, while patients who met the Sepsis-3 criteria for septic shock were categorized into “Sepsis-3 shock (n = 1195, 72.7%)” group. The ICU mortality in the “Sepsis-3 shock” group, “Sepsis-2 shock-only” group, and “Severe sepsis” group was 28.5%, 10.9%, and 14.1%, respectively. We observed no significant difference between the “Severe sepsis” and “Sepsis-2 shock-only” groups in terms of in-hospital survival ( P = .098), while the “Sepsis-3 shock” group had the highest in-hospital mortality rate ( P < .001). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, liver insufficiency and immunocompromised status were independent prognostic factors in the “Sepsis-2 shock-only” group. In contrast, chronic heart disease and chronic hemodialysis were independent prognostic factors in the “Sepsis-3 shock” group. Conclusions: The ICU mortality of the “Sepsis-2 shock-only” group was significantly low. Besides septic shock diagnosed by the Sepsis-3 definition selects patients with more severe cases of sepsis among the “Sepsis-2 shock” group.
Psoriasis-associated progressive necrotizing posterior scleritis: A 6-year follow-up
Authors: Amer Radgonde , Levinger Nadav 
Published: January 2019

Purpose: Posterior scleritis is the least frequent form of scleritis accounting for around 2%–8% of all scleritis cases. We aim to present the 6-year clinical course of a 62-year-old female patient with bilateral progressive necrotizing posterior scleritis who suffered from concurrent active psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Methods: Descriptive case report. Results: A middle-aged female patient was referred to our clinic because of left eye peripheral progressively enlarging white retinochoroidal lesions. Her previous work-up ruled out infectious and malignant etiologies. A second diagnostic vitrectomy was performed because of the slowly progressive and the atypical nature of the sectoral retinochoroidal patches in the retinal periphery. Again malignancy was ruled out. With the onset of cystoid macular edema and diffuse retinal vasculitis, which occurred concurrently with the reactivation of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, treatment was initiated with systemic immunosuppressants which initially included oral steroids and methotrexate and at the last follow-up 6 years after the first presentation included also cyclosporin and golimumab. Vision was preserved with quiescent uveitis and posterior scleritis. Conclusion: Posterior scleritis is an uncommon condition and it is even rarer in the setting of psoriasis. The necrotizing inflammation observed in the present case and by others revealed sectoral progressive chorioretinitis as a clinical manifestation which may initially raise the suspicion of masquerade malignant and infectious etiologies. Detailed thorough history-taking remains the cornerstone in identifying the possible systemic associations even when occult or subclinical.
High-Intensity Resistance Training Does Not Produce Immediate Ultrasonographic Changes in Muscle Tendons
Authors: Thygesen Mathias Møller , Jordt Ida , Kristensen Malene Svane , Fisker Filip Yang , Kildegaard Sofie , Pfeiffer-Jensen Mogens 
Published: January 2019

Background: Chronic overload injuries to tendons can be visualized using ultrasonography, with characteristics such as tendon thickening and darkening. Purpose: To investigate whether these characteristics are evident in the patellar and Achilles tendons immediately after 1 session of high-intensity resistance training. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A total of 18 volunteers were randomized to an experimental group (n = 10) and a sham group (n = 8). The experimental group performed 5 circuits at maximum effort consisting of 5 weighted front squats, 10 box jumps (60/50 cm), and 15 double-under jump-rope jumps. The sham group performed a similar circuit consisting of 5 weighted shoulder presses, 10 push-ups, and 15 weighted biceps curls. Ultrasonograms were obtained before and after exercise, for a total of 30 minutes at intervals of 2.5 minutes for the first 10 minutes and 5 minutes for the remaining time. Tendon thickness and tendon matrix signals were measured. Statistics were performed using repeated-measures mixed analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Tendon thickness did not increase significantly over 30 minutes after both circuits. The mean grayscale value for the patellar and Achilles tendons increased for both the experimental and the sham groups. ANOVA showed that the experimental group was not a significant explanatory variable; however, the increased work of both groups was. A post hoc analysis found that the maximum increase in the tendon signal was a grayscale value of 10.8 for the patellar tendon (99.4% CI, 3.7-17.9; P = .002). Conclusion: This trial failed to reproduce an earlier study in which tendon thickness increased after high-intensity training. The tendons produced a hyperechoic signal after high-intensity resistance training, regardless of loading to the tendon. Chronic overload characteristics on ultrasonography were not evident immediately after acute loading of tendons. Clinical Relevance: There is a need for prognostic and diagnostic markers of tendinopathy especially because of the protracted course of subclinical development of an injury. This study assessed whether clinical findings for a chronic overload injury can be detected during acute overloading.