bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asparagine deprivation mediated by Salmonella asparaginase causes suppression of activation-induced T cell metabolic reprogramming
Authors: Torres AnnMarie , Luke Joanna D , Kullas Amy L , Kapilashrami Kanishk , Botbol Yair , Koller Antonius , Tonge Peter J , Chen Emily I , Macian Fernando , van der Velden Adrianus W M
Published: October 2015

Salmonellae are pathogenic bacteria that induce immunosuppression by mechanisms that remain largely unknown. Previously, we showed that a putative type II l-asparaginase produced by Salmonella Typhimurium inhibits T cell responses and mediates virulence in a murine model of infection. Here, we report that this putative l-asparaginase exhibits l-asparagine hydrolase activity required for Salmonella Typhimurium to inhibit T cells. We show that l-asparagine is a nutrient important for T cell activation and that l-asparagine deprivation, such as that mediated by the Salmonella Typhimurium l-asparaginase, causes suppression of activation-induced mammalian target of rapamycin signaling, autophagy, Myc expression, and l-lactate secretion. We also show that l-asparagine deprivation mediated by the Salmonella Typhimurium l-asparaginase causes suppression of cellular processes and pathways involved in protein synthesis, metabolism, and immune response. Our results advance knowledge of a mechanism used by Salmonella Typhimurium to inhibit T cell responses and mediate virulence, and provide new insights into the prerequisites of T cell activation. We propose a model in which l-asparagine deprivation inhibits T cell exit from quiescence by causing suppression of activation-induced metabolic reprogramming.
Thermodynamic and chaotic approaches for the estimation of parameters tremor cooling subjects
Authors: Умаров  , Umarov B. , Бурыкин  , Burykin Yu. , Берестин  , Berestin D. , Козлов  , Kozlov A.
Published: October 2015

The results of the research performance of the neuromuscular system of boys and girls aged from 20 to 28 years old, living in the North for over 15 years and have a different experience of tempering procedures. Mean age was 22.8 years. Indications tremors were recorded before and after local cold exposure, based on comparing the body´s response in all groups surveyed. It is proved that the local cold exposure affects the parameters of the neuro – muscular man (tremorogrammy) in three groups of subjects (group 1 to 15 people is not quenched, 2nd group of 15 people hardenable less than a year, the third group of 15 people hardenable 2-xs). Were calculated and statistical indicators obtained amplitude – frequency characteristics of signals, calculate the area and the matrix of pairwise comparisons tremorogramm three groups of subjects before and after exposure. Quasi-attractor showed the greatest difference in comparison with the stochastics and the matrix of pairwise comparisons in trained almost do not change before and after cold exposure, which is indicative of a high adaptation to cold exposure.
Two types of approaches at personification medicine development
Authors: Филатова  , Filatova O. , Хадарцева  , Khadartseva K. , Еськов  , Eskov Valeriy
Published: October 2015

It is evident that requirement of medical personification includes two procedures: individual (with uninterrupted procedure of human organism state measurement) diagnostics and the second part which is connected with uninterrupted control of the efficiency of medical treatment and measurements of human organism parameters. According to classic deterministic-stochastic approaches we don´t have any possibility for realization of the basic principle in medicine because every human organism has its own specific features. We conduct the diagnostics according to beha-vior of state vector of human organism in phase space of states according to every coordinates of human´s state vector and with calculation of quasiattractors. It was presented new bioinformational methods and software for calculation of quasiattractors parameters for dissolving such contradic-tions between deterministic-stochastic medicine and the use of theory of chaos self-organization where the state vector of human organism demonstrates uninterrupted movements. The practical results of such procedure are also presented according to the theory of chaos self-organization.
A influência do cronotipo e da qualidade do sono na frequência de treinamento na academia
Authors: Siviero Rodrigo , Braga Gabriella , Esteves Andrea
Published: October 2015

A partir do aumento do número de indivíduos frequentadores de academia nos últimos anos, o aprimoramento entre os horários para a realização de exercícios físicos juntamente com o cronotipo pode ser fundamental para o aumento da motivação diária e melhora das respostas fisiológicas do corpo. Assim, o objetivo do estudo foi analisar a relação entre cronotipo, sonolência e qualidade do sono com horários e frequência de treinamento físico em uma academia da cidade de Limeira. Para isso, 100 frequentadores de uma academia da cidade de Limeira entre 14 e 65 anos, de ambos os sexos, foram avaliados utilizando questionários para determinar o cronotipo, sonolência diurna excessiva e a qualidade do sono. Para controlar a frequência de alunos na academia foi utilizado o banco de dados do Sistema Integrado de Informação da academia (horários de acesso dos alunos). Os resultados demonstraram uma associação significativa entre o cronotipo vespertino e o horário de treinamento em seu período correspondente (noite) (χ² (1) = 12,84, p = 0,001), ao passo que os indivíduos matutinos não apresentaram um padrão de horário para o seu treinamento. Não houve relação entre a frequência semanal na academia e o cronotipo (p = 0.489). A qualidade do sono e a sonolência (χ² (1) = 2,31 , p = 0,195)  não demonstraram associação com o treinamento em período correspondente ao cronotipo. Dessa forma, os resultados sugerem que a qualidade do sono não influenciou na frequência da prática do exercício físico na academia, no entanto, os indivíduos que apresentaram cronotipo vespertino tiveram maior adesão em realizar seu treinamento no período correspondente ao seu cronotipo.
Seizures: awareness and observation in the ward environment
Authors: Spray Jennifer
Published: October 2015

The preconceived ‘foaming’ and ‘violent’ seizure stereotypes are misrepresentations, particularly by non-specialist health professionals. Thus the vast semiology (signs and symptoms) of seizures and their subtle signs too easily go unrecognised by the untrained eye. Nevertheless, a significant proportion of adult patients admitted to the ward for treatment of their current illness will have a pre-existing seizure disorder (epilepsy). Furthermore, such hospitalised patients are more likely to suffer a seizure within the ward environment as triggering factors are unavoidably present. Thus, it is essential that nurses are prepared to encounter seizures, irrespective of the reason for admission. This article discusses the clinical semiology of the various seizure types in association with the underpinning neuropathophysiology, as well as the potential seizure triggers. It thereby enhances nurses' awareness and observations of seizure activity in patients in the ward environment.
Reducing bloodstream infection with a chlorhexidine gel IV dressing
Authors: Jeanes Annette , Bitmead James
Published: October 2015

The use of vascular access devices (VAD) is common in healthcare provision but there is a significant risk of acquiring an infection. Central venous catheters (CVC) are associated with the highest risk of intravenous catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI). 3M™ Tegaderm™ CHG IV dressing is a semi-permeable transparent adhesive dressing with an integrated gel pad containing chlorhexidine gluconate 2%. This product was reviewed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in 2015, recommending that Tegaderm CHG could be used for CVC and arterial line dressings in high-dependency and intensive-care settings. This article discusses issues around CRBSI, interventions to reduce the risk of CRBSI, and the use of Tegaderm CHG dressing.
Totally implanted ports: the trapezius approach in practice
Authors: Hill Steve
Published: October 2015

Implanted ports (IPs) are an essential device for many patients who require long-term vascular access. IPs offer some advantages over other central venous access devices, such as lifestyle, body image benefits and lower infection rates. A typical implantation site for a port is the anterior chest wall. For some patients with breast cancer who have metastatic chest wall disease this site may lead to problems with the function of the device if disease spreads to the port site. One option for this patient group is to place the implanted port over the trapezius muscle. This article discusses six patients, all of whom had metastatic breast cancer with some degree of subcutaneous disease on the anterior chest wall. Three patients had received trapezius port placements and three had anterior chest wall placements. A retrospective review of the patients' medical records was undertaken from the time of insertion until removal or until the patient died. The anterior chest wall group of patients had their devices in for an average of 368 days vs 214 in the trapezius group. The total complications were higher in the anterior chest wall group (7 vs 2 in the trapezius group). Disease spread to two of the devices in the anterior chest wall group meaning the devices could no longer be used. The trapezius approach appears to be a safe and a reliable form of vascular access and may offer fewer complications than the traditional method of anterior chest wall placement when standard anterior chest wall approach is not suitable.
Clinically indicated replacement of peripheral cannulas
Authors: Bolton Deborah
Published: October 2015

Insertion of peripheral venous cannulas is one of the most frequently performed procedures in hospitals. In the UK, one in three patients will have at least one cannula inserted while in hospital. Cannula insertion is uncomfortable and causes anxiety and distress to patients. The risks associated with this include infection, phlebitis and infiltration. In the UK, it is widely accepted that cannulas should be routinely changed every 72—96 hours in line with national guidelines ( Department of Health (DH) 2007 ). The updated epic3 guidelines recommend to change cannulas when clinically indicated, rather than routinely. The objective in a local NHS trust, was to look at the evidence for this, with an aim to change local policy and practice to reflect the new recommendation. The primary outcomes of the first 6 months from implementation suggest that patients have not been adversely affected. The change to practice has provided a significant reduction in financial costs to the trust, enabling a stock reduction of 25%. It is estimated that a total of 11 750 clinical hours have been saved for busy clinical staff. The most important outcome has been for patients, who have been spared the unnecessary pain and potential risks associated with repeated insertion of cannulas when there has been no clinical indication to do this.
Adequacy of diagnostic tests and surgical management of symptomatic invasive lobular carcinoma of the breast
Authors: Hadjiminas DJ , Zacharioudakis KE , Tasoulis MK , Hu JCC , Lanitis S , Bright-Thomas R , Dimopoulos NG , Hornzee G , Cunningham DA , Cleator SJ , Al Mufti R
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges as it produces subtle radiological changes. It has been suggested that it is not suitable for breast conserving surgery (BCS). The aim of this study was to ascertain the diagnostic adequacy of modern mammography and ultrasonography in the context of a fast track symptomatic diagnostic clinic in the UK. It also sought to compare the mastectomy, re-excision and BCS rates for ILC with those for invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was carried out on all new symptomatic cancers presenting to the one-stop diagnostic clinic of a single breast unit between 1998 and 2007.

Results

Compared with IDC, ILC was significantly larger at presentation (46mm vs 25mm), needed re-excision after BCS more often (38.8% vs 22.3%) and required mastectomy more frequently (58.8% vs 40.8%). Although mammography performs poorly in diagnosing ILC compared with IDC, when combined with ultrasonography, sensitivity of the combined imaging was not significantly different between these two histological types.

Conclusions

Provided ultrasonography is performed, standard radiological imaging is adequate for initial diagnosis of symptomatically presenting ILC but some additional preoperative workup should clearly be employed to reduce the higher number of reoperations for this histological type.
Acute surgical unit safely reduces unnecessary after-hours cholecystectomy
Authors: Suhardja TS , Bae L , Seah EZ , Cashin P , Croagh DG
Published: October 2015

Introduction

The acute surgical model has been trialled in several institutions with mixed results. The aim of this study was to determine whether the acute surgical model provides better outcomes for patients with acute biliary presentation, compared with the traditional emergency surgery model of care.

Methods

A retrospective review was carried out of patients who were admitted for management of acute biliary presentation, before and after the establishment of an acute surgical unit (ASU). Outcomes measured were time to operation, operating time, after-hours operation (6pm – 8am), length of stay and surgical complications.

Results

A total of 342 patients presented with acute biliary symptoms and were managed operatively. The median time to operation was significantly reduced in the ASU group (32.4 vs 25.4 hours, p=0.047), as were the proportion of operations performed after hours (19.5% vs 2.5%, p<0.001) and the median length of stay (4 vs 3 days, p<0.001). The median operating time, rate of conversion to open cholecystectomy and wound infection rates remained similar.

Conclusions

Implementation of an ASU can lead to objective differences in outcomes for patients who present with acute cholecystitis. In our study, the ASU significantly reduced time to operation, the number of operations performed after hours and length of stay.
An author’s guide to submission, revision and rejection
Authors: Shah Jyoti
Published: October 2015

‘Continuous effort, not strength or intelligence, is the key to understanding our potential.’

Winston Churchill

The sting of rejection is nasty. However, when you get that letter (which you will), remember you will be in esteemed company. Many of us would like to publish in Science or Nature but what better revenge when they reject you than a Nobel Prize! This is exactly what happened to Hans Krebs, the biochemist who won the Nobel Prize in 1953 for discovering the citric acid cycle, commonly known as the Krebs cycle. Krebs submitted his findings to Nature but was faced with rejection. Never has Frank Sinatra’s famous quote been truer: ‘The best revenge is massive success.’

Nature has admitted to many other such faux pas in its publishing history and it is not unique in its misjudgements. Publishing is a game of risk-taking behaviour and strategy. Authors must convince editors and referees that their work is worthy of publishing. When journals do not publish this work, authors must remember the value of their manuscript and persist in finding it another home.

JYOTI SHAH

Commissioning Editor
Pier Paolo Pasolini and the construction of masculinity in Italian fashion
Authors: Colaiacomo Paola
Published: October 2015

In this article, the study of fashion is engaged in from a transdisciplinary perspective, at the crossroads of fashion and literature. In his novels, movies, essays and short stories, Pier Paolo Pasolini brought to the public’s attention the sub-proletarian bodies of the male youth of post-war Italy, and of Rome in particular. As yet, the Roman ragazzi had no figure in the readers’, or spectators’, minds, and this fact gave him the liberty to scrutinize their bodies, down to the very rags which covered them, without having to dispel preconceived expectations. Focalized, the gap between body and dress becomes with him an interzone, an in-between space where the porosity between dress, body and character is captured. More often than not, this compositional style resulted in an erotic accentuation of the character’s physicality, both in film and on the written page.

The sub-proletarian body’s final inscription in the canon of male beauty is sanctioned in our own days, when such conceptual designers as Raf Simons and Hedi Slimane, now busy in recovering the subcultural roots of their design, openly insert that body’s habit of being into the narrative of fashion. To our media-savvy eyes, not a small result.
Role of Electrophysiological Study and Catheter Ablation for Recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia Complicating Myocarditis
Authors: Cecchi Emanuele , Fatucchi Serena , Crudeli Elena , Giglioli Cristina
Published: October 2015

Here we report the case of a 31-year-old man admitted to our hospital with echocardiografic and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance signs of myocarditis complicated by ventricular tachycardia, initially resolved with direct current shock. After the recurrence of ventricular tachycardia the patient was submitted to electrophysiological study revealing a re-entrant circuit at the level of the medium segment of interventricular septum, successfully treated with transcatheter ablation. This case highlights how the presence of recurrent ventricular arrhythmias at the onset of acute myocarditis, suspected or proven, could be associated with a pre-existing arrhythmogenic substrate, therefore these patients should be submitted to electrophysiological study in order to rule out the presence of arrhythmogenic focuses that can be treated with transcatheter ablation.
Rapidly Progrediating Aortic Valve Infective Endocarditis in an Intravenous Drug User Treated by Antibiotics and Surgery
Authors: Swedi Malkia S. , Pudil Radek , Manďák Jiří
Published: October 2015

We report the case of a 22-year old male, a self-confessed recreational drug user who developed cardiogenic shock because of severe destruction of the aortic valve by rapidly progressive aortic valve endocarditis. The disease progression was acute; in a matter of days, the clinical manifestations were life-threatening necessitating urgent aortic valve replacement surgery. Cultivation revealed Streptococcus viridans as the microbial agent. Subsequent recovery with antibiotic treatment was without complication. This case report shows that immediately performed transoesophageal echocardiography and early consultation with a cardiac surgeon has fundamental importance in diagnosis and management of acute infective endocarditis in haemodynamically instable patients.
Genome‑Wide Association Studies in Schizophrenia, and Potential Etiological and Functional Implications of Their Results
Authors: Hosák Ladislav , Šilhan Petr , Hosáková Jiřina
Published: October 2015

Background: Despite the fact that the genetic basis of schizophrenia has been intensively studied for more than two decades, our contemporary knowledge in this field is rather fractional, and a substantial part of it is still missing. The aim of this review article is to sum up the data coming from genome‑wide association genetic studies in schizophrenia, and indicate prospective directions of further scientific endeavour. Methods: We searched the National Human Genome Research Institute’s Catalog of genome‑wide association studies for schizophrenia to identify all papers related to this topic. In consequence, we looked up the possible relevancy of these findings for etiology and pathogenesis of schizophrenia using the computer gene and PubMed databases. Results: Eighteen genome‑wide association studies in schizophrenia have been published till now, referring to fifty‑seven genes supposedly involved into schizophrenia’s etiopathogenesis. Most of these genes are related to neurodevelopment, neuroendocrinology, and immunology. Conclusions: It is reasonable to predict that complex studies of sufficiently large samples, involving detection of copy number variants and assessment of endophenotypes, will produce definitive discoveries of genetic risk factors for schizophrenia in the future.
CD200/CD200R Paired Potent Inhibitory Molecules Regulating Immune and Inflammatory Responses; part I: CD200/CD200R Structure, Activation, and Function
Authors: Holmannová Drahomíra , Koláčková Martina , Kondělková Kateřina , Kuneš Pavel , Krejsek Jan , Andrýs Ctirad
Published: October 2015

CD200/CD200R are highly conserved type I paired membrane glycoproteins that belong to the Ig superfamily containing a two immunoglobulin‑like domain (V, C). CD200 is broadly distributed in a variety of cell types, whereas CD200R is primarily expressed in myeloid and lymphoid cells. They fulfill multiple functions in regulating inflammation. The interaction between CD200/CD200R results in activation of the intracellular inhibitory pathway with RasGAP recruitment and thus contributes to effector cell inhibition. It was confirmed that the CD200R activation stimulates the differentiation of T cells to the Treg subset, upregulates indoleamine 2,3‑dioxygenase activity, modulates cytokine environment from a Th1 to a Th2 pattern, and facilitates an antiinflammatory IL‑10 and TGF‑β synthesis. CD200/CD200R are required for maintaining self‑tolerance. Many studies have demonstrated the importance of CD200 in controlling autoimmunity, inflammation, the development and spread of cancer, hypersensitivity, and spontaneous fetal loss.
Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 in Patients with Oral Lichen Planus
Authors: Paulusová Vladimíra , Laco Jan , Dřízhal Ivo , Slezák Radovan
Published: October 2015

Introduction: Oral Lichen planus (OLP) is chronic inflammatory oral mucosal disease of unknown etiology. Basement membrane damage and T‑cell migration in OLP may be mediated by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). We examined the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 9 to support this hypothesis. Materials and methods: The study population consisted of 71 patients with OLP and 10 control patients with oral fibromas. Indirect immunohistochemistry was used for detection of MMP 9 expression (polyclonal rabbit anti‑human MMP antibody). Results: In all cases of OLP, the MMP‑9 expression was seen mainly in the area of lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate in the lamina propria including lymphocytes within the overlying epithelium. In addition, it was observed in the epithelial keratinocytes, particularly in the stratum basale and stratum spinosum with occasional positivity in the superficial layer. Fibroblasts and endothelium of small vessels in the lamina propria showed MMP9 expression as well. In all cases of oral mucosal fibromas, the MMP‑9 expression was seen only in fibroblasts and in endothelium of small vessels with occasional positivity within the overlying epithelium. It remains unclear, whether MMP‑9 is directly connected to OLP pathogenesis.
Crystal structure of crystal structure of poly{bis-[(4,4′-biphenyl-dicarboxylate-κ2O:O′)-μ-1,1′-oxy-bis-(ethane-2,1-diyl)-bis-(1H-imidazole)-κ2N:N′] zinc(II)}dihydrate, C48H48N8O12Zn2
Authors: Zhang Lai-Ping , Chen Gai-Rong
Published: October 2015

C
Combination Therapy Of Tadalafil And Pentoxifylline In Severe Erectile Dysfunction; A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Roat Rajesh , Agrawal Swati , Jayant Kumar , Mavuduru Ravimohan S. , Kumar Shrawan
Published: October 2015

was to assess efficacy of Tadalafil alone versus Tadalafil plus Pentoxifylline in the treatment of erectile dysfunction by using self administered IIEF-5 questionnaire.

Two hundred and thirty seven patients presenting with ED at andrology OPD were evaluated for ED by a self administered IIEF (International Index of Erectile Function) questionnaire. Patients were systematically randomized by computer generated random table into two groups groups namely, group A: Tadalafil only group, group B: combination of Tadalafil + Pentoxifyl-line. All the patients were re-assessed by IIEF-5 questionnaire after 8 weeks of medical therapy. Statistical analysis was performed using student’s unpaired t-test, paired t-test, chi square test. p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Two hundred and thirty seven patients were included in the present study, in group A: 92 patients (78.6%) showed improvement in their IIEF score after 8 weeks of tadalafil treatment. While in group B, overall 104 patients(86.6%) showed improvement after combination of Tadalafil and Pentoxifylline. There was a statistically significant difference of percentage change in IIEF score was seen in group B (group A 90.7±15.2%, group B 95.6±13.4%; p value – 0.014). We found this difference even more statistically significant in patients with severe ED (group A 72.7±47.2%, group B 132.3±54.3%; p value – 0.000). There was no significant difference in between the two groups with regards to occur-rence of side effects.

Both tadalafil and combination of Tadalafil + Pentoxifylline improve erectile function in patients of ED. Patients with severe ED showed much significant improvement in erectile function with combination therapy.
The Use Of Anterolateral Thigh Flap (ALTF) For Functional Tongue Reconstruction With Postoperative Quality Of Live Evaluation
Authors: Krakowczyk Łukasz , Maciejewski Adam , Szymczyk Cezary , Wierzgoń Janusz , Półtorak Stanisław
Published: October 2015

The use of microsurgery for oral reconstruction of cancer patients, has become standard treatment in restoring oral function. The free anterolateral thigh flap is one of the most preferred options in reconstruction after total, subtotal or hemiresection of the tonque due to squamous cell cancer.

was to present the reconstructive method using anterolateral thigh free flap with evaluation of quality of live.

Clinical material includes 46 consecutive patients with tongue cancer, who underwent complex surgical treatment between 2009 and 2011. There were 36 males and 10 females and the M: F ratio was 3.6: 1. All of them were reconstructed using the anterolateral thigh free flap. The quality of life was evaluated 6 months after completing the treatment, based on postoperative functional and aesthetic status.

The overall flap survival rate was 96%. Surgical complications were observed in 8 patients (17%). Donor site was closed primarly in 42 cases and in remaining 4 skin graft was required. In all 46 cases understandable speech and return to unrestricted diet mastication and swallowing were achieved. The mean follow-up period after treatment was 32 months. Analysis of aesthetic effects evaluated in 23 cases and shows generally very good results. According to average transformed scores the QOL can be characterized as excellent for >90, very good for 76-90, good for 51-75, moderate for 25-50 and bad for <25 points.

Anterolateral thigh flap, with its versatility in design, long pedicle with a suitable vessel diameter, low donor site morbidity, and very good aesthetic effects, could be the ideal flap for functional tongue reconstruction.
Rare Facial Clefts
Authors: Fijałkowska Marta , Antoszewski Bogusław
Published: October 2015

In 1976 Dr. Paul Tessier described numeric classification for rare craniofacial clefts. He first emphasized that a fissure of the soft tissue corresponds, as a general rule, to a cleft of the bony structure. The classification, easy to understand, became widely accepted because the recording of the malformations was simple and facilitated communication between observers.

was to present our own experience with treatment of patients with rare facial clefts.

Our Department has 11 patients with rare craniofacial clefts under its care. This group includes 8 boys and 3 girls. The patients aged from 2 months to 18 years at the time of the first consultation.

In two patients the cleft was median, in seven patients it was one-sided and in two – bilateral. The most common type of cleft was number 6, and the rarest were 2, 3, and 7. All patients underwent surgical treatment.

Atypical facial clefts are rare congenital anomalies, however because of functional and aesthetic disturbances they constitute a serious medical and therapeutic problem. Facial clefts are characterized by variable clinical presentation and require individualized treatment plan.
Description Of Minimally Invasive Methods Of Treatment Of Walled-Off Pancreatic Necrosis (WOPN)- The Use Of „Step-Up Approach” In Patient With Pancreatic Necrosis
Authors: Jagielski Mateusz , Smoczyński Marian , Studniarek Michał , Adrych Krystian
Published: October 2015

The study presents description of treatment of patients with walled-off pancreatic necrosis (WOPN). The strategy of treatment was to extend access to necrotic areas (“step-up approach”). Applied endoscopic transmural access (transgastric) and percutaneous access (transperitoneal). The endoscopic necrosectomy under fluoroscopic guidance was repeated four times during active transluminal drainage. Endoscopic treatment with percutaneous drainage gave very beneficial clinical effects.
Passions, Pleasures, and Perceptions: Rethinking Evagrius Ponticus on Mental Representation
Authors: Gibbons Kathleen
Published: October 2015

Evagrius Ponticus’s theory of the eight bad thoughts has often been read as indebted to Stoic ideas of mental representation. This is in part, however, a consequence of the fact that the significance of φαντασία to Plato’s own thought has only recently begun to receive adequate attention. In this paper, I explore how recent studies into Plato’s theory of passion help illuminate Evagrius’s ideas about the relationship between affect and mental representation. Interpreting Evagrius’s treatment of passion as perspectival (rather than judgmental) helps illuminate his understanding of the relationship between the ascetic and contemplative lives and his conception of selfhood.
Wer ist der Jüngling? Die Taufe des Gundaphor in den Thomasakten und der Kult des Asklepios
Authors: Leonhard Clemens
Published: October 2015

The Acts of Thomas relate the Apostle Thomas’ missionary journey to India and his missionary successes. The narrative tells that Thomas baptized important persons of the Indian society. The description of king Gundaphor’s baptism ends in a vision: “And when they had come up out of the water, a youth appeared to them, and he was holding a lighted taper; and the light of the lamps became pale through its light.”1 The following essay discusses the question of the identification of this literary figure of the young man in the context of similar evidence from the cult of Asclepius. It also reflects on the explanation of this figure from a methodological point of view. It analyzes the modern perception of these texts and its contribution to the understanding of the ancient liturgies of baptism and their ritual shape. While the rituals, procedures, places, and notions of the cult of Asclepius were firmly embedded in Christian world views of late antiquity and the early middle ages, the allusions to the cult of Asclepius in the Acts of Thomas rather suggest the reverse situation for that earlier epoch: The Acts of Thomas explain Christian baptism in terms of the theory of the cult of Asclepius. As it becomes difficult, furthermore, to distinguish between elements of ritual description and ritual explanation in the guise of the narrative, these observations advise caution in the use of the descriptions of the liturgies in the Acts of Thomas for reconstructions of the history of Christian baptism.
Life-threatening events in patients with pheochromocytoma
Authors: Riester Anna , Weismann Dirk , Quinkler Marcus , Lichtenauer Urs D , Sommerey Sandra , Halbritter Roland , Penning Randolph , Spitzweg Christine , Schopohl Jochen , Beuschlein Felix , Reincke Martin
Published: October 2015

Objective

Pheochromocytomas are rare chromaffin cell-derived tumors causing paroxysmal episodes of headache, palpitation, sweating and hypertension. Life-threatening complications have been described in case reports and small series. Systematic analyses are not available. We took an opportunity of a large series to make a survey.

Design and methods

We analyzed records of patients diagnosed with pheochromocytomas in three geographically spread German referral centers between 2003 and 2012 (n=135).

Results

Eleven percent of the patients (ten women, five men) required in-hospital treatment on intensive care units (ICUs) due to complications caused by unsuspected pheochromocytomas. The main reasons for ICU admission were acute catecholamine induced Tako-Tsubo cardiomyopathy (n=4), myocardial infarction (n=2), acute pulmonary edema (n=2), cerebrovascular stroke (n=2), ischemic ileus (n=1), acute renal failure (n=2), and multi organ failure (n=1). One patient required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation due to a hypertensive crisis with lung edema occurring during delivery (n=1). Two patients died of refractory shock and pheochromocytomas were found postmortem. Two patients were treated by emergency surgery. Compared to pheochromocytoma patients without life-threatening events (n=120), patients with complications had a significant larger maximal tumor diameter (7.0 vs 4.5 cm, P<0.01), higher levels of catecholamines (20- vs ninefold upper limit of normal, P<0.01), and tended to be younger (42 vs 51 years, P=0.05).

Conclusion

Although pheochromocytomas are rare, they are likely to be associated with a life-threatening situation. Clinicians have to be aware of these situations and perform a timely diagnosis.
Deep History of East Asian Populations Revealed Through Genetic Analysis of the Ainu
Authors: Jeong Choongwon , Nakagome Shigeki , Di Rienzo Anna
Published: October 2015

Despite recent advances in population genomics, much remains to be elucidated with regard to East Asian population history. The Ainu, a hunter–gatherer population of northern Japan and Sakhalin island of Russia, are thought to be key to elucidating the prehistory of Japan and the peopling of East Asia. Here, we study the genetic relationship of the Ainu with other East Asian and Siberian populations outside the Japanese archipelago using genome-wide genotyping data. We find that the Ainu represent a deep branch of East Asian diversity more basal than all present-day East Asian farmers. However, we did not find a genetic connection between the Ainu and populations of the Tibetan plateau, rejecting their long-held hypothetical connection based on Y chromosome data. Unlike all other East Asian populations investigated, the Ainu have a closer genetic relationship with northeast Siberians than with central Siberians, suggesting ancient connections among populations around the Sea of Okhotsk. We also detect a recent genetic contribution of the Ainu to nearby populations, but no evidence for reciprocal recent gene flow is observed. Whole genome sequencing of contemporary and ancient Ainu individuals will be helpful to understand the details of the deep history of East Asians.
Roles of Nucleoid-Associated Proteins in Stress-Induced Mutagenic Break Repair in StarvingEscherichia coli
Authors: Moore Jessica M , Magnan David , Mojica Ana K , Núñez María Angélica Bravo , Bates David , Rosenberg Susan M , Hastings P J
Published: October 2015

The mutagenicity of DNA double-strand break repair in Escherichia coli is controlled by DNA-damage (SOS) and general (RpoS) stress responses, which let error-prone DNA polymerases participate, potentially accelerating evolution during stress. Either base substitutions and indels or genome rearrangements result. Here we discovered that most small basic proteins that compact the genome, nucleoid-associated proteins (NAPs), promote or inhibit mutagenic break repair (MBR) via different routes. Of 15 NAPs, H-NS, Fis, CspE, and CbpA were required for MBR; Dps inhibited MBR; StpA and Hha did neither; and five others were characterized previously. Three essential genes were not tested. Using multiple tests, we found the following: First, Dps, which reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibited MBR, implicating ROS in MBR. Second, CbpA promoted F′ plasmid maintenance, allowing MBR to be measured in an F′-based assay. Third, Fis was required for activation of the SOS DNA-damage response and could be substituted in MBR by SOS-induced levels of DinB error-prone DNA polymerase. Thus, Fis promoted MBR by allowing SOS activation. Fourth, H-NS represses ROS detoxifier sodB and was substituted in MBR by deletion of sodB, which was not otherwise mutagenic. We conclude that normal ROS levels promote MBR and that H-NS promotes MBR by maintaining ROS. CspE positively regulates RpoS, which is required for MBR. Four of five previously characterized NAPs promoted stress responses that enhance MBR. Hence, most NAPs affect MBR, the majority via regulatory functions. The data show that a total of six NAPs promote MBR by regulating stress responses, indicating the importance of nucleoid structure and function to the regulation of MBR and of coupling mutagenesis to stress, creating genetic diversity responsively.
Targeted Integration of Single-Copy Transgenes in Drosophila melanogaster Tissue-Culture Cells Using Recombination-Mediated Cassette Exchange
Authors: Manivannan Sathiya N , Jacobsen Thomas L , Lyon Peter , Selvaraj Bhavani , Halpin Peter , Simcox Amanda
Published: October 2015

Transfection of transgenes into Drosophila cultured cells is a standard approach for studying gene function. However, the number of transgenes present in the cell following transient transfection or stable random integration varies, and the resulting differences in expression level affect interpretation. Here we developed a system for Drosophila cell lines that allows selection of cells with a single-copy transgene inserted at a specific genomic site using recombination-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE). We used the φC31 integrase and its target sites attP and attB for RMCE. Cell lines with an attP-flanked genomic cassette were transfected with donor plasmids containing a transgene of interest (UAS-x), a dihydrofolate reductase (UAS-DHFR) gene flanked by attB sequences, and a thymidine kinase (UAS-TK) gene in the plasmid backbone outside the attB sequences. In cells undergoing RMCE, UAS-x and UAS-DHFR were exchanged for the attP-flanked genomic cassette, and UAS-TK was excluded. These cells were selected using methotrexate, which requires DHFR expression, and ganciclovir, which causes death in cells expressing TK. Pure populations of cells with one copy of a stably integrated transgene were efficiently selected by cloning or mass culture in ∼6 weeks. Our results show that RMCE avoids the problems associated with current methods, where transgene number is not controlled, and facilitates the rapid generation of Drosophila cell lines in which expression from a single transgene can be studied.
Manipulation of Karyotype inCaenorhabditis elegansReveals Multiple Inputs Driving Pairwise Chromosome Synapsis During Meiosis
Authors: Roelens Baptiste , Schvarzstein Mara , Villeneuve Anne M
Published: October 2015

Meiotic chromosome segregation requires pairwise association between homologs, stabilized by the synaptonemal complex (SC). Here, we investigate factors contributing to pairwise synapsis by investigating meiosis in polyploid worms. We devised a strategy, based on transient inhibition of cohesin function, to generate polyploid derivatives of virtually any Caenorhabditis elegans strain. We exploited this strategy to investigate the contribution of recombination to pairwise synapsis in tetraploid and triploid worms. In otherwise wild-type polyploids, chromosomes first sort into homolog groups, then multipartner interactions mature into exclusive pairwise associations. Pairwise synapsis associations still form in recombination-deficient tetraploids, confirming a propensity for synapsis to occur in a strictly pairwise manner. However, the transition from multipartner to pairwise association was perturbed in recombination-deficient triploids, implying a role for recombination in promoting this transition when three partners compete for synapsis. To evaluate the basis of synapsis partner preference, we generated polyploid worms heterozygous for normal sequence and rearranged chromosomes sharing the same pairing center (PC). Tetraploid worms had no detectable preference for identical partners, indicating that PC-adjacent homology drives partner choice in this context. In contrast, triploid worms exhibited a clear preference for identical partners, indicating that homology outside the PC region can influence partner choice. Together, our findings, suggest a two-phase model for C. elegans synapsis: an early phase, in which initial synapsis interactions are driven primarily by recombination-independent assessment of homology near PCs and by a propensity for pairwise SC assembly, and a later phase in which mature synaptic interactions are promoted by recombination.
Praktische Folgerungen aus der Rechtsprechung zur „nachschüssigen Tilgungsverrechnung"
Authors: Westermann Harm Peter
Published: October 2015

Die Entscheidung des Bundesgerichtshofs vom 24.11.1988 zur sog. nachschüssigen Tilgungsverrechnung wurde im Realkreditgeschäfi mit Spannung erwartet, weil sie die Banken in einer hohen Zahl von laufenden, möglicherweise auch bereits abgewickelten Kreditgeschäften zu einer nachträglichen Umberechnung der Zins- und Tilgungsleistungen der Darlehensnehmer zwingen könnte.

Erste Reaktionen aufdas Urteil gehen von einem weittragenden Sieg des Verbraucherschutzgedankens aus. In der Praxis ist zu hören, daß bei den betroffenen Banken und Bausparkassen Rückstellungen in zweistelligen Millionenbeträgen erwogen werden.

Der Beitrag untersucht das Urteil auf seine praktischen Folgen bei der zukünftigen Handhabung dieses Kredittyps und versucht, erste Aspekte zur Fortentwicklung der Theorie der InhaltskontroUe von Α GB-Verträgen im Zuge des sog. Transparenzgebots zu formulieren
Die Übertragung der Rechte aus einer Bankgarantie
Authors: Bydlinski Peter
Published: October 2015

Das Problem, ob und unter welchen Umständen Rechte aus einer abstrakten Bankgarantie auf erstes Anfordern übertragen werden können, wurde bisher nicht abschließend geklärt. Der vorliegende Beitrag versucht, schon bekannte, aber auch neue Argumente zu vertiefen und systematisch aufzubereiten. Mangels gesetzlicher Regelungen steht dabei die detaillierte Herausarbeitung der beteiligten Interessen sowie deren Abwägung anhand in der Rechtsordnung auffindbarer Wertungen im Vordergrund. Schwierigkeiten bereitet vor allem die Behandlung des vom Zahlungsanspruch strengzu unterscheidenden Rechts auf Abruf (Inanspruchnahme) der Garantie. Neben der deutschen wird auch die österreichische sowie die schweizerische Rechtslage berücksichtigt.
Eigenkapitalausstattung und Investitionstätigkeit
Authors: Schwetzler Bernhard
Published: October 2015

Der drastische Rückgang der Eigenkapitalausstattung (genauer: der Eigenkapitalquote) bundesdeutscher Unternehmen bis Mitte der 80er Jahre hat breite wissenschaftliche Diskussionen ausgelöst. Insbesondere wurde versucht, zwischen diesem empirischen Phänomen und demjenigen des gleichzeitigen Rückganges der Investitionstätigkeit eine theoretische Verbindungherzustellen. Der folgende Beitraghat das Ziel, ausgehend von finanzierungs theoretischen Überlegungen zur Relevanz der Kapitalstruktur, die Zusammenhänge zwischen Unternehmens-Eigenkapitalquote, absoluter Höhe der Eigenmittel der Unternehmenseigentümer und realisiertem Investitionsvolumen aufzuzeigen. Er kommt zu dem Ergebnis, daß die Ursache für den Rückgang der Investitionen in diesem Zeitraum nicht in der Entwicklung der Eigenkapitalausstattung, sondern vielmehr in derjenigen der Rendite- und Risikoeigenschaften von Investitionen zu sehen ist.
Streit um die Mindestreserve
Authors: Grämlich Ludwig
Published: October 2015

Der Zwang, bei der Zentralbank Mindestreserven zu halten, bringtfür Banken Schmälerungen des Gewinns, manchmal auch Refmanzierungsprobleme. Die Deutsche Bundesbank hält gerade wegen der spürbaren Wirkungen an diesem währungspolitischen Instrumentfest. Die nähere Ausgestaltung durch die „Anweisung über Mindestreserven“ wirft diverse Rechtsfiagen auf. Sie werden am Beispiel einer der wenigen Gerichtsentscheidungen auf diesem Feld eingehender dargestellt mit dem Ergebnis, daß die geltende Regelung als verfassungsrechtlich überaus bedenklich ersche
Die Regulierung von Übernahmen in der Europäischen Gemeinschaft
Authors: Hahn Dieter
Published: October 2015

Zu den Bereichen, die auf dem Weg zum Binnenmarkt 1992 immer mehr durch europäisches Recht anstelle von nationalen Vorschriften reguliert werden, gehört auch der Aufkauf von Unternehmen. Der Beitrag untersucht die auf diesem Gebiet von der EG teilweise bereits geschaffenen und noch zu schaffenden einheitlichen rechtlichen Grundlagen.
Rechtsprechungsänderung zum Disagio: Zivil- und steuerrechtliche Fragen zur Entgeltgestaltung beim Darlehen
Authors: Köndgen Johannes , Busse Alexander
Published: October 2015

Der Bundesgerichtshof hat seine Rechtsprechung zum Disagio geändert und behandelt letzteres jetzt prinzipiell als zinsähnliches, laufzeitabhängiges Entgelt. Das Urteilwirft eine Reihe schwieriger AGB-und steuenechtlicher Fragen auf. Insgesamt hat der BGH damit seine im „Tilgungsvenechnungs-“ und im „Wertstettungsurteil“ begonnene Rechtsprechung zur AGB-mäßigen Entgeltgestaltung durch Kreditinstitute weiter komplettiert.
Vorausverfugungen über Nutzungsentgeltforderungen im Konkurs
Authors: Henssler Martin
Published: October 2015

Mit dem Factoring-Geschäft zur Finanzierung von Leasinggesellschaften erfüllen die Kreditinstitute eine wichtige Funktion im modernen Wirtschaftsleben. Voraussetzung für die praktische Durchführbarkeit und den künftigen Erfolg dieser Refinanzierungsform ist eine angemessene Sicherung der Factoring-Bank im Konkurs der Leasinggesellschaft. Der BGH hat jüngst zur Konkursbeständigkeit der Forfaitierung von Leasingraten Stellung genommen. Seine Entscheidunghat die offenen Streitfragen jedoch nur zum Teil geklärt
Reform des amerikanischen Bankrechts
Authors: Baums Theodor
Published: October 2015

Die Bankenkrise hat in den USA zu einer umfassenden Diskussion über die Reform des Bankrechts geführt. Im Februar dieses Jahres hat das Schatzministerium nunmehr einen Bericht über die Modernisierung des Bankensystems vorgelegt. Der Beitrag stellt die in ihm enthaltenen Reformvorschläge dar.
Der Maßstab des Doppelten bei der Sittenwidrigkeit von Zinsvereinbarungen
Authors: Hammen Horst
Published: October 2015

Die Rechtsprechung stellt für die Beurteilung des Mißverhältnisses von Leistung und Gegenleistung (§ 138 BGB) bei Ratenkrediten auf eine Überschreitung des Marktzinses um relativ 100 % oder absolut 12 % ab. Im folgenden Beitrag wird versucht, aus dem historisch gewachsenen und für § 138 BGB maßgeblichen Anstandsgefühl aller billig und gerecht Denkenden eine Begründung für diese Werte zugeben.
Geld-Brief-Spannen deutscher Standardwerte in IBIS und MATIS
Authors: Schmidt Hartmut , Iversen Peter
Published: October 2015

Die internationale Wettbewerbsfähigkeit der deutschen Börsen und ihre- Attraktivität für den Anleger hängt von den Transaktionskosten ab. Eine wichtige Komponente der Transaktionskosten, aber auch die entscheidende Dimension der Liquidität findet in der Geld-Brief-Spanne ihren Ausdruck. Die Protokolldatenbanken von IBIS und MATIS erlauben es, dem Anleger erstmals auch für deutsche Aktien Aufschluß über die Höhe dieser Transaktionskosten zugeben. Im Hinblick auf die Leistungsfähigkeit der deutschen Börsen sind die Ergebnisse ermutigend.
Europäisches und deutsches Investmentrecht
Authors: Grundmann Stefan
Published: October 2015

Der Bereich der Finanzinstitutionen ist extensiv Gegenstand europäischer Harmonisierungsschritte. Die Investmentfonds bilden den Auftakt. Die Umsetzung des EG-Rechts in diesem Bereich belegt, daß nationale Denkkategorien bereitwillig in Frage gestellt werden müssen. Das deutsche Investmentrecht ist ein anderes geworden