bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rigorous anaesthesia management protocol for patients with intracranial arterial stenosis: a prospective controlled-cohort study
Authors: Laiwalla Azim N , Ooi Yinn Cher , Van De Wiele Barbara , Ziv Keren , Brown Adam , Liou Raymond , Saver Jeffrey L , Gonzalez Nestor R
Published: January 2016

Objectives

Reducing variability is integral in quality management. As part of the ongoing Encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis Revascularisation for Symptomatic Intracranial Arterial Stenosis (ERSIAS) trial, we developed a strict anaesthesia protocol to minimise fluctuations in patient parameters affecting cerebral perfusion. We hypothesise that this protocol reduces the intraoperative variability of targeted monitored parameters compared to standard management.

Design

Prospective cohort study of patients undergoing encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis surgery versus standard neurovascular interventions. Patients with ERSIAS had strict perioperative management that included normocapnia and intentional hypertension. Control patients received regular anaesthetic standard of care. Minute-by-minute intraoperative vitals were electronically collected. Heterogeneity of variance tests were used to compare variance across groups. Mixed-model regression analysis was performed to establish the effects of treatment group on the monitored parameters.

Setting

Tertiary care centre.

Participants

24 participants: 12 cases (53.8 years±16.7 years; 10 females) and 12 controls (51.3 years±15.2 years; 10 females). Adults aged 30–80 years, with transient ischaemic attack or non-disabling stroke (modified Rankin Scale <3) attributed to 70–99% intracranial stenosis of the carotid or middle cerebral artery, were considered for enrolment. Controls were matched according to age, gender and history of neurovascular intervention.

Main outcome measures

Variability of heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), systolic blood pressure and end tidal CO2(ETCO2) throughout surgical duration.

Results

There were significant reductions in the intraoperative MAP SD (4.26 vs 10.23 mm Hg; p=0.007) and ETCO2 SD (0.94 vs 1.26 mm Hg; p=0.05) between the ERSIAS and control groups. Median MAP and ETCO2 in the ERSIAS group were higher (98 mm Hg, IQR 23 vs 75 mm Hg, IQR 15; p<0.001, and 38 mm Hg, IQR 4 vs 32 mm Hg, IQR 3; p<0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

The ERSIAS anaesthesia protocol successfully reduced intraoperative fluctuations of MAP and ETCO2. The protocol also achieved normocarbia and the intended hypertension.

Trial registration number

NCT01819597; Pre-results.
The efficacy of a movement control exercise programme to reduce injuries in youth rugby: a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hislop M D , Stokes K A , Williams S , McKay C D , England M , Kemp S P T , Trewartha G
Published: January 2016

Background

Injuries to youth rugby players have become an increasingly prominent health concern, highlighting the importance of developing and implementing appropriate preventive strategies. A growing body of evidence from other youth sports has demonstrated the efficacy of targeted exercise regimens to reduce injury risk. However, studies have yet to investigate the effect of such interventions in youth contact sport populations like rugby union.

Objective

To determine the efficacy of an evidence-based movement control exercise programme compared with a sham exercise programme to reduce injury risk in youth rugby players. Exercise programme compliance between trial arms and the effect of coach attitudes on compliance will also be evaluated.

Setting

School rugby coaches in England will be the target of the researcher intervention, with the effects of the injury prevention programmes being measured in male youth players aged 14–18 years in school rugby programmes over the 2015–2016 school winter term.

Methods

A cluster-randomised controlled trial with schools randomly allocated to either a movement control exercise programme or a sham exercise programme, both of which are coach-delivered. Injury measures will derive from field-based injury surveillance, with match and training exposure and compliance recorded. A questionnaire will be used to evaluate coach attitudes, knowledge, beliefs and behaviours both prior to and on the conclusion of the study period.

Outcome measures

Summary injury measures (incidence, severity and burden) will be compared between trial arms, as will the influence of coach attitudes on compliance and injury burden. Additionally, changes in these outcomes through using the exercise programmes will be evaluated.

Trial registration number

ISRTCNN13422001.
Evaluating a DVD promoting breast cancer awareness among black women aged 25–50 years in East London
Authors: Greenhough Beth , Dembinsky Melanie , Dyck Isabel , Brown Tim , Robson John , Homer Kate , Sajani Cynthia , Carter Lucy , Duffy Stephen W , Ornstein Mark
Published: January 2016

Background

The mean age of presentation for breast cancer among black women is substantially earlier than their white counterparts. Black women also present with adverse prognostic factors that have major clinical implications, including lower survival. To pilot the use of a 6 min DVD on breast cancer in young (under 50 years) black women, to raise awareness and examine the impact of the DVD on increased consultation and referral rates among these women.

Methods

Two general practices (intervention practices) in the Hackney area were randomised to have the DVD mailed to all black women aged 25–50 years registered with the practices, and two practices to no intervention (control practices). EMIS data was used to compare consultation rates preintervention and postintervention, in the intervention as well as control practices. Interviews with practice staff and focus groups with patients in participating practices provided qualitative data on the study context and DVD effectiveness.

Results

A trend of declining consultations for breast symptoms was observed (−22% and −31% among non-black women in the control and intervention practices, and −23% among black women in the control practice) except among the target population of black women aged 25–50 years for the DVD in the intervention practices, which saw an increase of 28% in consultations. The qualitative data indicated that the DVD was well received in the target population, and suggested further ways of disseminating awareness messages and overcoming barriers to help-seeking.

Conclusions

Pilot results suggest that the strategy of distributing the DVD may increase consultations for breast problems.
Expert consensus on dynamics of laboratory tests for diagnosis of macrophage activation syndrome complicating systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Ravelli Angelo , Minoia Francesca , Davì Sergio , Horne AnnaCarin , Bovis Francesca , Pistorio Angela , Aricò Maurizio , Avcin Tadej , Behrens Edward M , De Benedetti Fabrizio , Filipovic Alexandra , Grom Alexei A , Henter Jan-Inge , Ilowite Norman T , Jordan Michael B , Khubchandani Raju , Kitoh Toshiyuki , Lehmberg Kai , Lovell Daniel J , Miettunen Paivi , Nichols Kim E , Ozen Seza , Pachlopnik Schmid Jana , Ramanan Athimalaipet V , Russo Ricardo , Schneider Rayfel , Sterba Gary , Uziel Yosef , Wallace Carol , Wouters Carine , Wulffraat Nico , Demirkaya Erkan , Brunner Hermine I , Martini Alberto , Ruperto Nicolino , Cron Randy Q
Published: January 2016

Objective

To identify which laboratory tests that change over time are most valuable for the timely diagnosis of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) complicating systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA).

Methods

A multistep process, based on a combination of expert consensus and analysis of real patient data, was conducted. A panel of experts was first asked to evaluate 115 profiles of patients with MAS, which included the values of laboratory tests at the pre-MAS visit and at MAS onset, and the change in values between the two time points. The experts were asked to choose the 5 laboratory tests in which change was most important for the diagnosis of MAS and to rank the 5 selected tests in order of importance. The relevance of change in laboratory parameters was further discussed and ranked by the same experts at a consensus conference.

Results

Platelet count was the most frequently selected test, followed by ferritin level, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), white cell count, neutrophil count, and fibrinogen and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Ferritin was most frequently assigned the highest score. At the end of the process, platelet count, ferritin level and AST were the laboratory tests in which the experts found change over time to be most important.

Conclusions

We identified the laboratory tests in which change over time is most valuable for the early diagnosis of MAS in sJIA. The dynamics of laboratory values during the course of MAS should be further scrutinised in a prospective study in order to establish the optimal cut-off values for their variation.
The hydrogen sulfide releasing compounds ATB-346 and diallyl trisulfide attenuate streptozotocin-induced cognitive impairment, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress in rats: involvement of asymmetric dimethylarginine
Authors: Mostafa Dalia K. , El Azhary Nesrine M. , Nasra Rasha A.
Published: January 2016

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has attracted interest as a gaseous mediator involved in diverse processes in the nervous system, particularly with respect to learning and memory. However, its therapeutic potential in Alzheimer disease (AD) is not fully explored. Therefore, the effects of H2S-releasing compounds against AD-like behavioural and biochemical abnormalities were investigated. Memory deficit was induced by intracerberoventicular injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 3 mg·kg−1). Animals were randomly assigned into 5 groups (12 rats each): normal control, STZ treated, and 3 drug-treated groups receiving naproxen, H2S-releasing naproxen (ATB-346), and diallyl trisulfide in 20, 32, 40 mg·kg−1·day−1, respectively. Memory function was assessed by passive avoidance and T-maze tasks. After 21 days, hippocampal IL-6, malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione (GSH), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and acetylcholinestrase activity were determined. ATB-346 and diallyl trisulfide ameliorated behavioural performance and reduced malondialdehyde, ADMA, and acetylcholinestrase activity while increasing GSH. This study demonstrates the beneficial effects of H2S release in STZ-induced memory impairment by modulation of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and cholinergic function. It also delineates the implication of ADMA to the cognitive impairment induced by STZ. These findings draw the attention to H2S-releasing compounds as new candidates for treating neurodegenerative disorders that have prominent oxidative and inflammatory components such as AD.
Non-metric fluid dynamics and cosmology on Finsler spacetimes
Authors: Hohmann Manuel
Published: January 2016

We generalize the kinetic theory of fluids, in which the description of fluids is based on the geodesic motion of particles, to spacetimes modeled by Finsler geometry. Our results show that Finsler spacetimes are a suitable background for fluid dynamics and that the equation of motion for a collisionless fluid is given by the Liouville equation, as it is also the case for a metric background geometry. We finally apply this model to collisionless dust and a general fluid with cosmological symmetry and derive the corresponding equations of motion. It turns out that the equation of motion for a dust fluid is a simple generalization of the well-known Euler equations.
General relativity and neutron stars
Authors: Yakovlev D. G.
Published: January 2016

General Relativity affects all major aspects of neutron star structure and evolution including radiation from the surface, neutron star models, evolution in compact binaries. It is widely used for neutron star mass measurements and for studying properties of superdense matter in neutron stars. Observations of neutron stars help testing General Relativity and planning gravitational wave experiments. No deviations from Einstein Theory of Gravity have been detected so far from observations of neutron stars.
Rotating cylindrical wormholes and energy conditions
Authors: Bronnikov K. A. , Krechet V. G.
Published: January 2016

We seek wormholes among rotating cylindrically symmetric configurations in general relativity. Exact wormhole solutions are presented with such sources of gravity as a massless scalar field, a cosmological constant, and a scalar field with an exponential potential. However, none of these solutions are asymptotically flat, which excludes the existence of wormhole entrances as local objects in our Universe. To overcome this difficulty, we try to build configurations with flat asymptotic regions using the cut-and-paste procedure: on both sides of the throat, a wormhole solution is matched to a properly chosen region of flat space-time at some surfaces [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. It is shown, however, that if the source of gravity in the throat region is a scalar field with an arbitrary potential, then one or both thin shells appearing on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] inevitably violate the null energy condition. Thus, although rotating wormhole solutions are easily found without exotic matter, such matter is still necessary for obtaining asymptotic flatness.
Theoretical study on mechanical properties of polyethylene–SWCNT complexes
Authors: Petrushenko Igor K.
Published: January 2016

This paper studies the mechanical properties of polyethylene (PE)–Single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) complexes by using density functional theory (DFT). At the PBE/SVP level, the Young’s modulus of the complexes is obtained as a function of PE content. It is established that, with increasing number of PE chains attached to the SWCNTs, the Young’s modulus monotonically decreases. The density of states (DOS) results show that no orbital hybridization exists between the PE chains and nanotubes. The results of this work are of importance for the design of composite materials employing SWCNTs.
Cosmic ray contributions to the WMAP polarization data on the cosmic microwave background
Authors: Wibig Tadeusz , Wolfendale Arnold W.
Published: January 2016

We have updated our analysis of the 9-year WMAP data using the collection of polarization maps looking for the presence of additional evidence for a finite ‘cosmic ray (CR) foreground’ for the cosmic microwave background (CMB). We have given special attention to high Galactic latitudes, where the recent BICEP2 findings were reported although very recent Planck data claims that dust is prevalent, thus nullifying the BICEP2 results. The method of examining the correlation with the observed gamma ray flux proposed in our earlier papers and applied to the polarization data shows that the foreground related to CRs is still observed even at high Galactic latitudes and conclusions about gravitational waves are not yet secure. Theory has it that there is important information about inflationary gravitational waves in the fine structure of the CMB polarization properties (polarization vector and angle) and it is necessary to examine further the conclusions that can be gained from studies of the CMB maps, in view of the disturbing foreground effects.
The van der Waals fluid and its role in cosmology
Authors: Jantsch Rudinei C. S. , Christmann Marcus H. B. , Kremer Gilberto M.
Published: January 2016

We analyze the properties of a generic cosmological fluid described by the van der Waals equation-of-state. Exact solutions for the energy-density evolution are found as implicit functions of the scale factor for a flat Friedmann–Robertson–Walker (FRW) spacetime. The possible values of the free parameter in the van der Waals equation are selected a posteriori, in accordance with asymptotic behaviors that are physically relevant. The stability of the model against small perturbations is studied through the hydrodynamic perturbations of the fluid for the relevant cases. It is found that a van der Waals fluid seems appropriate to describe noneternal inflationary scenarios.
Phenomenological calculation of nuclear binding energy and density with Yukawa-potentials
Authors: Scheid W.
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we study a phenomenological collective model for the calculation of the nuclear density and ground state binding energy of nuclei. The proton density is assumed proportional to the nuclear density. The total binding energy of the nuclear matter consists of the binding energy of infinite nuclear matter, of two Yukawa-potentials, of the Coulomb-energy and of the symmetry-energy. The parameters of the Yukawa-potential are fitted with the Bethe–Weizsäcker (BW) mass formula. The resulting binding energies and nuclear densities agree quite satisfying with known nuclear values.
The bound state solutions of the D-dimensional Schrödinger equation for the Woods–Saxon potential
Authors: Badalov V. H.
Published: January 2016

In this work, the analytical solutions of the [Formula: see text]-dimensional radial Schrödinger equation are studied in great detail for the Wood–Saxon potential by taking advantage of the Pekeris approximation. Within a novel improved scheme to surmount centrifugal term, the energy eigenvalues and corresponding radial wave functions are found for any angular momentum case within the context of the Nikiforov–Uvarov (NU) and Supersymmetric quantum mechanics (SUSYQM) methods. In this way, based on these methods, the same expressions are obtained for the energy eigenvalues, and the expression of radial wave functions transformed each other is demonstrated. In addition, a finite number energy spectrum depending on the depth of the potential [Formula: see text], the radial [Formula: see text] and orbital [Formula: see text] quantum numbers and parameters [Formula: see text] are defined as well.
The effect of breakup of 6Li on elastic scattering and fusion with 28Si at near barrier energies
Authors: Sinha Mandira , Roy Subinit , Basu P. , Majumdar H.
Published: January 2016

Elastic scattering angular distributions for 6Li+[Formula: see text]Si system were measured at [Formula: see text] and analyzed along with the existing data from the previous measurements in the energy range of [Formula: see text]. The measured cross-sections and the existing data, forming a set of angular distributions over a range of E/[Formula: see text], were analyzed using the phenomenological optical model potential (OMP). Three different sets of potential parameters were used. The energy dependence of the real and the imaginary potential strengths were, subsequently, extracted at the radius of sensitivity ([Formula: see text]) for the system. Continuum Discretized Coupled Channel (CDCC) calculation was performed to explore the contribution of projectile break-up (BU) on the observed energy dependence of the effective potential for elastic scattering of 6Li from [Formula: see text]Si. The energy variation of the strength of the real potential with continuum coupling was found to agree with the energy dependence of the same extracted from the (OMP) analysis at energies around the barrier. But the behavior of the imaginary strength appeared to be different. The calculated fusion cross-sections, including the effect of BU, clearly overestimated the measured fusion excitation function data in the below and near barrier energies but compared well with the data at higher energies.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON THE MULTIFRACTAL EVOLUTION OF FRICTION TEMPERATURE
Authors: ZHOU YUANKAI , ZHU HUA , ZUO XUE
Published: January 2016

The experiments were performed by sliding a pin against a plate under lubricated sliding condition. The friction temperature signal was measured by a thermocouple through the wear life. The multifractal spectrum was utilized to study the dynamic evolution of the friction temperature. The width of the multifractal spectrum, [Formula: see text], and the difference between the fractal dimensions of the subset with the largest singularity exponent and that with the smallest singularity exponent, [Formula: see text], are computed for qualitative analysis. The results demonstrate that the friction temperature signal possesses multifractal properties. In the running-in period, both [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] decrease gradually, and the spectrum changes from a wide, hook-like shape to a narrow, bell-like shape. In the steady state, [Formula: see text] maintains at a small value, [Formula: see text] fluctuates slightly around 0, and the narrow, bell-like shape of the spectrum persists. In the increasing friction, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] increase gradually, and the spectrum changes from the narrow, bell-like shape to the wide, hook-like shape. The results provided insight into the dynamic behavior of friction system.
Bright and exotic solitons in optical metamaterials by semi-inverse variational principle
Authors: Xu Yanan , Vega-Guzman Jose , Milovic Daniela , Mirzazadeh M. , Eslami Mostafa , Mahmood M. F. , Biswas Anjan , Belic Milivoj
Published: January 2016

This paper addresses solitons in optical metamaterials. The semi-inverse variational principle (SVP) is utilized to secure bright soliton solutions to the governing model. There are five forms of nonlinearity that are studied in this paper. They are Kerr law, power law, parabolic law, dual-power law and finally the log law nonlinearity. In particular for Kerr law nonlinearity, there are two additional forms of soliton solutions obtained. They are cosh-Gaussian pulses and bright-dark combo solitons and these are collectively being referred to as exotic solitons. There are several constraint conditions that naturally emerge for these solitons to exist.
Enhancement of the visible light photocatalytic activity of vanadium and nitrogen co-doped TiO2 thin film
Authors: Phung Hang Nguyen Thai , Truong Nguyen Duc , Nguyen Lam Thanh , Thi Kieu Loan Phan , Duong Phuong Ai , Le Vu Tuan Hung
Published: January 2016

Vanadium and nitrogen co-doped TiO2(TiO2:(V, N)) thin films were fabricated by sol–gel method. Crystal structure, surface morphology, chemical composition and absorption edge of the thin films were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and UV-Vis spectroscopy techniques, respectively. Photocatalytic activity of all thin films were evaluated by measuring decomposition rate of methylene blue solution under visible light irradiation. The water contact angle analyzer was used to measure water contact angle on the film. The results indicate that absorption edge of TiO2:(V, N) thin films shifts to visible region. All co-doped TiO2 samples show higher visible light photocatalytic activity than undoped TiO2 and single-element-doped TiO2 counterparts. The best TiO2:(V, N) thin film can decompose about 90% MB solution and gets super wet state after 150[Formula: see text]min under compact light irradiation.
Complete suppression of FWM in ultra dense WDM-PON optical networks using centralized light source
Authors: Manzoor Habib Ullah , Hussain Ashiq , Yu Chong Xiu , Manzoor Tareq
Published: January 2016

In this paper, a novel technique to completely eliminate FWM has been introduced. Alternative circular polarizer have been used to change the polarization of incoming pulses into left-hand and right-hand polarizations before multiplexing in UDWDM optical network with centralized light source. System’s performance have been calculated on the bases of Q factor, optical signal to noise ratio, received power and bit error rate. All simulation has been performed in OptiSystem.
Playing Quantum Games with Disentanglement-Free State
Authors: Weng Guo-Fu , Yu Yang
Published: January 2016

We use a kind of disentanglement-free state to serve as the initial state shared by players and referee in quantum games. It is found that when two players choose some strategies the payoffs of the quantum games will not be affected by the external single-mode vacuum field and the various interactions present in the process. Furthermore, we show that for some games our scheme can be used to remove the dilemma in its corresponding classical game even with the presence of noises; meanwhile, one can find the solution to those games without disturbing the players’ payoffs.
Wave dynamics of linear hyperbolic relaxation systems
Authors: Solem Susanne , Aursand Peder , Flåtten Tore
Published: January 2016

We consider linear hyperbolic systems with a stable rank 1 relaxation term and establish that the characteristic polynomial for the individual Fourier components of the solution can be written as a convex combination of the characteristic polynomials for the formal stiff and non-stiff limits. This allows us to provide a direct and elementary proof of the equivalence between linear stability and the subcharacteristic condition. In a similar vein, a maximum principle follows: The velocity of each individual Fourier component is bounded by the minimum and maximum eigenvalues of the non-stiff limit system.
On hyperbolic systems with entropy velocity covariant under the action of a group
Authors: Dubois François
Published: January 2016

For hyperbolic systems of conservation laws in one space dimension endowed with a mathematical entropy, we define the notion of entropy velocity and we give sufficient conditions for such a system to be covariant under the action of a group of space-time transformations. These conditions naturally introduce a representation of the group in the space of states. We construct such hyperbolic systems from the knowledge of data on the manifold of null velocity. We apply these ideas for Galileo, Lorentz, and circular groups and, in particular, focus on nontrivial examples of [Formula: see text] systems of conservation laws.
Tissue Patterning: Translating Design Principles from In Vivo to In Vitro
Authors: McGuigan Alison P. , Javaherian Sahar
Published: January 2016

Recapitulating the architecture of native tissue remains a significant challenge, impeding the progress of engineering tissues. Imposing appropriate organization is especially challenging in tissues that contain multiple cellular components in complex structural units. One solution is to mimic developmental processes in embryos. In an embryo, cells are organized by tissue patterning, whereby induction of fate-determining genes is spatially controlled to generate patterns of cell differentiation and maturation. Following patterning, the imposed cell organization is further reinforced by implementation of compartment boundaries, which prevent intermingling of cells from distinct phenotypic domains, thereby ensuring preservation of proper cell organization in growing and reorganizing tissues. Both morphogenic processes utilize a conserved set of fundamental principles, the implementation of which leads to highly regulated cell organization. In this article, we review these patterning principles in vivo and reflect on the progress made by tissue engineers in mimicking tissue patterning ex vivo.
Increase in cholinergic modulation with pyridostigmine induces anti-inflammatory cell recruitment soon after acute myocardial infarction in rats
Authors: Rocha Juraci Aparecida , Ribeiro Susan Pereira , França Cristiane Miranda , Coelho Otávio , Alves Gisele , Lacchini Silvia , Kallás Esper Georges , Irigoyen Maria Cláudia , Consolim-Colombo Fernanda M.
Published: January 2016

We tested the hypothesis that an increase in the anti-inflammatory cholinergic pathway, when induced by pyridostigmine (PY), may modulate subtypes of lymphocytes (CD4+, CD8+, FOXP3+) and macrophages (M1/M2) soon after myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. Wistar rats, randomly allocated to receive PY (40 mg·kg−1·day−1) in drinking water or to stay without treatment, were followed for 4 days and then were subjected to ligation of the left coronary artery. The groups—denominated as the pyridostigmine-treated infarcted (IP) and infarcted control (I) groups—were submitted to euthanasia 3 days after MI; the heart was removed for immunohistochemistry, and the peripheral blood and spleen were collected for flow cytometry analysis. Noninfarcted and untreated rats were used as controls (C Group). Echocardiographic measurements were registered on the second day after MI, and heart rate variability was measured on the third day after MI. The infarcted groups had similar MI areas, degrees of systolic dysfunction, blood pressures, and heart rates. Compared with the I Group, the IP Group showed a significant higher parasympathetic modulation and a lower sympathetic modulation, which were associated with a small, but significant, increase in diastolic function. The IP Group showed a significant increase in M2 macrophages and FOXP3+ cells in the infarcted and peri-infarcted areas, a significantly higher frequency of circulating Treg cells (CD4+CD25+FOXP3+), and a less extreme decrease in conventional T cells (CD25+FOXP3−) compared with the I Group. Therefore, increasing cholinergic modulation with PY induces greater anti-inflammatory cell recruitment soon after MY in rats.
Mercaptoacetate blocks fatty acid-induced GLP-1 secretion in male rats by directly antagonizing GPR40 fatty acid receptors
Authors: Li Ai-Jun , Wang Qing , Dinh Thu T. , Simasko Steve M. , Ritter Sue
Published: January 2016

Mercaptoacetate (MA) is an orexigenic agent reported to block fatty acid (FA) oxidation. Recently, however, we reported evidence from isolated nodose ganglion neurons that MA antagonizes the G protein-coupled long- and medium-chain FA receptor GPR40. GPR40 mediates FA-induced secretion of the satietogenic incretin peptide glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), by enteroendocrine L cells, as well as FA-induced enhancement of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. Our results in cultured nodose neurons suggest that MA would also block GPR40 in enteroendocrine cells controlling GLP-1 secretion. If so, this would suggest an alternative mechanism by which MA increases food intake. We tested the hypothesis that MA blocks FA-induced GLP-1 secretion in vitro using cultured STC-1 cells (a murine enteroendocrine cell line) and in vivo in adult male rats. In vitro, MA blocked the increase in both cytosolic Ca2+ and GLP-1 release stimulated by FAs and also reduced (but less effectively) the response of STC-1 cells to grifolic acid, a partial agonist of the GPR120 FA receptor. In vivo, MA reduced GLP-1 secretion following olive oil gavage while also increasing glucose and decreasing insulin levels. The carnitine palmatoyltransferase 1 antagonist etomoxir did not alter these responses. Results indicate that MA's actions, including its orexigenic effect, are mediated by GPR40 (and possibly GPR120) receptor antagonism and not by blockade of fat oxidation, as previously believed. Analysis of MA's interaction with GPR40 may facilitate understanding of the multiple functions of this receptor and the manner in which FAs participate in the control of hunger and satiety.
SGLT1 sugar transporter/sensor is required for post-oral glucose appetition
Authors: Sclafani Anthony , Koepsell Hermann , Ackroff Karen
Published: January 2016

Recent findings suggest that the intestinal sodium-glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1) glucose transporter and sensor mediates, in part, the appetite-stimulation actions of intragastric (IG) glucose and nonmetabolizable α-methyl-d-glucopyranoside (MDG) infusions in mice. Here, we investigated the role of SGLT1 in sugar conditioning using SGLT1 knockout (KO) and C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) mice. An initial experiment revealed that both KO and WT mice maintained on a very low-carbohydrate diet display normal preferences for saccharin, which was used in the flavored conditioned stimulus (CS) solutions. In experiment 2, mice were trained to drink one flavored solution (CS+) paired with an IG MDG infusion and a different flavored solution (CS−) paired with IG water infusion. In contrast to WT mice, KO mice decreased rather than increased the intake of the CS+ during training and failed to prefer the CS+ over the CS− in a choice test. In experiment 3, the KO mice also decreased their intake of a CS+ paired with IG glucose and avoided the CS+ in a choice test, unlike WT mice, which preferred the CS+ to CS−. In experiment 4, KO mice, like WT mice preferred a glucose + saccharin solution to a saccharin solution. These findings support the involvement of SGLT1 in post-oral glucose and MDG conditioning. The results also indicate that sugar malabsorption in KO mice has inhibitory effects on sugar intake but does not block their natural preference for sweet taste.
Unilateral deactivation of macaque dorsolateral prefrontal cortex induces biases in stimulus selection
Authors: Johnston Kevin , Lomber Stephen G. , Everling Stefan
Published: January 2016

Following unilateral brain injury, patients are often unable to detect a stimulus presented in the contralesional field when another is presented simultaneously ipsilesionally. This phenomenon has been referred to as extinction and has been conceptualized as a deficit in selective attention. Although most commonly observed following damage to posterior parietal areas, extinction has been observed following lesions of prefrontal cortex (PFC) in both humans and nonhuman primates. To date, most studies in nonhuman primates have examined lesions of multiple PFC subregions, including the frontal eye fields (FEF). Theoretical accounts of attentional disturbances from human patients, however, also implicate other PFC areas, including the middle frontal gyrus. Here, we investigated the effects of deactivating PFC areas anterior to the FEF on stimulus selection using a free-choice task. Macaque monkeys were presented with two peripheral stimuli appearing either simultaneously, or at varying stimulus onset asynchronies, and their performance was evaluated during unilateral cryogenic deactivation of part of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex or the cortex lining the caudal principal sulcus, the likely homologue of the human middle frontal gyrus. A decreased proportion of saccades was made to stimuli presented in the hemifield contralateral to the deactivated PFC. We also observed increases in reaction times to contralateral stimuli and decreases for stimuli presented in the hemifield ipsilateral to the deactivated hemisphere. In both cases, these results were greatest when both PFC subregions were deactivated. These findings demonstrate that selection biases result from PFC deactivation and support a role of dorsolateral prefrontal subregions anterior to FEF in stimulus selection.
Phase-amplitude coupling, an indication of bursting in parkinsonism, is masked by periodic pulses
Authors: Sanders Teresa H.
Published: January 2016

Interactions between neural oscillations in the brain have been observed in many structures including the hippocampus, amygdala, motor cortex, and basal ganglia. In this study, one popular approach for quantifying oscillation interactions was considered: phase-amplitude coupling. The goals of the study were to use simulations to examine potential causes of elevated phase-amplitude coupling in parkinsonism, to compare simulated parkinsonian signals with recorded local field potentials from animal models of parkinsonism, to investigate possible relationships between increased bursting in parkinsonian single cells and elevated phase-amplitude coupling, and to uncover potential noise and artifact effects. First, a cell model that integrates incremental input currents and fires at realistic voltage thresholds was modified to allow control of stochastic parameters related to firing and burst rates. Next, the input currents and distribution of integration times were set to reproduce firing patterns consistent with those from parkinsonian subthalamic nucleus cells. Then, local field potentials were synthesized from the output of multiple simulated cells with varying degrees of synchronization and compared with subthalamic nucleus recordings from animal models of parkinsonism. The results showed that phase-amplitude coupling can provide important information about underlying neural activity. In particular, signals synthesized from synchronized bursting neurons showed increased oscillatory interactions similar to those observed in parkinsonian animals. Additionally, changes in bursting parameters such as the intraburst rate, the mean interburst period, and the amount of synchronization between neurons influenced the phase-amplitude coupling in predictable ways. Finally, simulation results revealed that small periodic signals can have a surprisingly large masking effect on phase-amplitude coupling.
Twin-sibling study and meta-analysis on the heritability of maximal oxygen consumption
Authors: Schutte Nienke M. , Nederend Ineke , Hudziak James J. , Bartels Meike , de Geus Eco J. C.
Published: January 2016

Large individual differences exist in aerobic fitness in childhood and adolescence, but the relative contribution of genetic factors to this variation remains to be established. In a sample of adolescent twins and siblings ( n = 479), heart rate (HR) and maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max) were recorded during the climax of a graded maximal exercise test. In addition, V̇o2maxwas predicted in two graded submaximal exercise tests on the cycle ergometer and the treadmill, using extrapolation of the HR/V̇o2curve to the predicted HRmax. Heritability estimates for measured V̇o2maxwere 60% in ml/min and 55% for V̇o2maxin ml·min−1·kg−1. Phenotypic correlations between measured V̇o2maxand predicted V̇o2maxfrom either submaximal treadmill or cycle ergometer tests were modest (0.57 < r < 0.70), in part because of the poor agreement between predicted and actual HRmax. The majority of this correlation was explained by genetic factors; therefore, the submaximal exercise tests still led to very comparable estimates of heritability of V̇o2max. To arrive at a robust estimate for the heritability of V̇o2maxin children to young adults, a sample size weighted meta-analysis was performed on all extant twin and sibling studies in this age range. Eight studies, including the current study, were meta-analyzed and resulted in a weighted heritability estimate of 59% (ml/min) and 72% (ml·min−1·kg−1) for V̇o2max. Taken together, the twin-sibling study and meta-analyses showed that from childhood to early adulthood genetic factors determine more than half of the individual differences in V̇o2max.
The Impact and Successes of a Paediatric Endocrinology Fellowship Program in Africa
Authors: Odundo Gordon Otieno , Ngwiri Thomas , Otuoma Olivia , Laigong Paul , Mukhwana Renson , Limbe Mary Slessor , Chanzu Nadia Musimbi
Published: January 2016

Background.The prevalence and distribution of endocrine disorders in children in Africa are not well known because most cases are often undiagnosed or diagnosed too late. The awareness of this led to the launch of the Paediatric Endocrinology Training Center for Africa (PETCA) designed to improve quality and access to health care by training paediatricians from Africa in paediatric endocrinology.Methods.The fellowship is undertaken over an 18-month period: six months of clinical and theoretical training in Kenya, nine months of project research at the fellow’s home country, and three months of consolidation in Kenya. Upon completion, certified paediatricians are expected to set up centers of excellence.Results.There have been two phases, phase I from January 2008 to October 2012 and phase II from January 2012 to April 2015. Fifty-four fellows from 12 African countries have been certified, 34 (phase I) and 20 (phase II). Over 1,000 patients with wide ranging diabetes and endocrine disorders have been diagnosed and treated and are being followed up at the centers of excellence.Conclusion.The successes of the PETCA initiative demonstrate the impact a capacity building and knowledge transfer model can have on people in resource-poor settings using limited resources.
The Great Imitator Strikes Again: Syphilis Presenting as “Tongue Changing Colors”
Authors: Swanson Jessica , Welch Janna
Published: January 2016

Syphilis is known as the great imitator, making its diagnosis in the emergency department difficult. A 29-year-old male presented with the chief complaint of “my tongue is changing colors.” A syphilis rapid plasma reagin (RPR) test resulted as positive. In primary syphilis, the chancre is the characteristic lesion. While chancres are frequently found on the external genitalia or anus, extragenital chancres arise in 2% of patients. With oral involvement, the chancre is commonly found on the lip or tongue. The patient was treated for secondary syphilis with 2.4 million units of long acting penicillin intramuscularly. On follow-up a month later, the patient’s symptoms had resolved.
Chemical Entropy Generation and MHD Effects on the Unsteady Heat and Fluid Flow through a Porous Medium
Authors: Rashed Gamal M. Abdel-Rahman
Published: January 2016

Chemical entropy generation and magnetohydrodynamic effects on the unsteady heat and fluid flow through a porous medium have been numerically investigated. The entropy generation due to the use of a magnetic field and porous medium effects on heat transfer, fluid friction, and mass transfer have been analyzed numerically. Using a similarity transformation, the governing equations of continuity, momentum, and energy and concentration equations, of nonlinear system, were reduced to a set of ordinary differential equations and solved numerically. The effects of unsteadiness parameter, magnetic field parameter, porosity parameter, heat generation/absorption parameter, Lewis number, chemical reaction parameter, and Brinkman number parameter on the velocity, the temperature, the concentration, and the entropy generation rates profiles were investigated and the results were presented graphically.
Preparation and Biological Activity of the Monoclonal Antibody against the Second Extracellular Loop of the Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor
Authors: Wei Mingming , Zhao Chengrui , Zhang Suli , Wang Li , Liu Huirong , Ma Xinliang
Published: January 2016

The current study was to prepare a mouse-derived antibody against the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1-mAb) based on monoclonal antibody technology, to provide a foundation for research on AT1-AA-positive diseases. Balb/C mice were actively immunized with the second extracellular loop of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R-ECII). Then, mouse spleen lymphocytes were fused with myeloma cells and monoclonal hybridomas that secreted AT1-mAb were generated and cultured, after which those in logarithmic-phase were injected into the abdominal cavity of mice to retrieve the ascites. Highly purified AT1-mAb was isolated from mouse ascites after injection with 1 × 107hybridomas. A greater amount of AT1-mAb was purified from mouse ascites compared to the cell supernatant of hybridomas. AT1-mAb purified from mouse ascites constricted the thoracic aorta of mice and increased the beat frequency of neonatal rat myocardial cells via the AT1R, identical to the effects of AT1-AA extracted from patients’ sera. Murine blood pressure increased after intravenous injection of AT1-mAb via the tail vein. High purity and good biological activity of AT1-mAb can be obtained from mouse ascites after intraperitoneal injection of monoclonal hybridomas that secrete AT1-mAb. These data provide a simple tool for studying AT1-AA-positive diseases.
RyR2QQ2958 Genotype and Risk of Malignant Ventricular Arrhythmias
Authors: Galati Francesca , Galati Antonio , Massari Serafina
Published: January 2016

Ventricular arrhythmias are one of the most common causes of death in developed countries. The use of implantable cardiac defibrillators is the most effective treatment to prevent sudden cardiac death. To date, the ejection fraction is the only approved clinical variable used to determine suitability for defibrillator placement in subjects with heart failure. The purpose of this study was to assess whether genetic polymorphisms found in the ryanodine receptor type 2 (Q2958R) and histidine-rich calcium-binding protein (S96A) might serve as markers for arrhythmias. Genotyping was performed in 235 patients treated with defibrillator for primary and secondary prevention of arrhythmias. No significant association was found between the S96A polymorphism and arrhythmia onset, whereas the QQ2958 genotype in the ryanodine receptor gene was correlated with an increased risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. Concurrent stressor conditions, such as hypertension, seem to increase this effect. Our findings might help to better identify patients who could benefit from defibrillator implantation.
T Cell/Histiocyte-Rich Large B Cell Lymphoma of the Thymus: A Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Xu Jie , Wu Xiaojun , Reddy Vishnu
Published: January 2016

T cell/histiocyte-rich large B cell lymphoma (THRLBCL) is predominantly a nodal disease, with extranodal involvement, such as bone marrow, spleen, and liver. However, primary THRLBCL has never been reported in the thymus in the English literature. Here we report a case of THRLBCL presenting as mediastinal mass and lymphadenopathy. Based on the frozen section diagnosis of “thymoma,” a 12 cm mass was excised. A year later she developed multiple enlarged lymph nodes and pulmonary nodules. Consultant review of the excised mediastinal mass showed scattered large atypical cells that were CD20+ and PAX-5+ and negative for pan-cytokeratin, AE1, and AE3, compatible with THRLBCL and excluding thymoma. The excised lymph nodes were replaced by diffuse infiltrate of small CD3+ lymphocytes and histiocytes with intermingled large CD20+ B lymphoma cells scattered throughout the section. A diagnosis of THRLBCL was made in lymph node, similar to previous thymic lesion. A clonal rearrangement of immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) gene was detected, further supporting the diagnosis. This is the first reported case of THRLBCL in thymus. Correct recognition of this entity is critical, because of the difference in therapeutic impact on these patients.
A Comparison of Short- and Long-Term Therapeutic Outcomes of Infliximab- versus Tacrolimus-Based Strategies for Steroid-Refractory Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Endo Katsuya , Onodera Motoyuki , Shiga Hisashi , Kuroha Masatake , Kimura Tomoya , Hiramoto Keiichiro , Kakuta Yoichi , Kinouchi Yoshitaka , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: January 2016

Background/Aims. Antitumor necrosis factor antibodies and calcineurin inhibitors have shown good therapeutic efficacy for steroid-refractory ulcerative colitis (UC). Although some studies have compared the efficacy of infliximab (IFX) and cyclosporin A, there are no published studies comparing IFX and tacrolimus (Tac). This study aimed to compare therapeutic efficacies between IFX- and Tac-based strategies for steroid-refractory UC.Methods. Between July 2009 and August 2013, 95 patients with steroid-refractory UC received either IFX(n=48)or Tac(n=47)in our hospital. In the IFX group, the patients continued to receive maintenance treatment with IFX. In the Tac group, patients discontinued Tac treatment up to 3 months and subsequently received thiopurine. We retrospectively compared the therapeutic outcomes between the groups.Results. There was no significant difference in the colectomy-free rate, clinical remission rate, and clinical response rate at 2 months between the groups. However, relapse-free survival was significantly higher in the IFX group than in the Tac group (p<0.001; log-rank test). The proportions of serious adverse events did not differ between the groups.Conclusion.The findings of our study showed that IFX and Tac have similar short-term therapeutic efficacy for steroid-refractory UC. Maintenance treatment with IFX, however, yields better long-term outcomes than Tac-thiopurine bridging treatment.