bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical Methods for Predicting Malaria Incidences Using Data from Sudan
Authors: Hussien Hamid H. , Eissa Fathy H. , Awadalla Khidir E.
Published: March 2017

Malaria is the leading cause of illness and death in Sudan. The entire population is at risk of malaria epidemics with a very high burden on government and population. The usefulness of forecasting methods in predicting the number of future incidences is needed to motivate the development of a system that can predict future incidences. The objective of this paper is to develop applicable and understood time series models and to find out what method can provide better performance to predict future incidences level. We used monthly incidence data collected from five states in Sudan with unstable malaria transmission. We test four methods of the forecast: (1) autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA); (2) exponential smoothing; (3) transformation model; and (4) moving average. The result showed that transformation method performed significantly better than the other methods for Gadaref, Gazira, North Kordofan, and Northern, while the moving average model performed significantly better for Khartoum. Future research should combine a number of different and dissimilar methods of time series to improve forecast accuracy with the ultimate aim of developing a simple and useful model for producing reasonably reliable forecasts of the malaria incidence in the study area.
Investigate the Effect of Thawing Process on the Self-Assembly of Silk Protein for Tissue Applications
Authors: Nguyen Hiep Thi , Luong Hien Thu , Nguyen Hai Dai , Tran Hien Anh , Huynh Khon Chan , Vo Toi Van
Published: March 2017

Biological self-assembly is a process in which building blocks autonomously organize to form stable supermolecules of higher order and complexity through domination of weak, noncovalent interactions. For silk protein, the effect of high incubating temperature on the induction of secondary structure and self-assembly was well investigated. However, the effect of freezing and thawing on silk solution has not been studied. The present work aimed to investigate a new all-aqueous process to form 3D porous silk fibroin matrices using a freezing-assisted self-assembly method. This study proposes an experimental investigation and optimization of environmental parameters for the self-assembly process such as freezing temperature, thawing process, and concentration of silk solution. The optical images demonstrated the possibility and potential of −80ST48 treatment to initialize the self-assembly of silk fibroin as well as controllably fabricate a porous scaffold. Moreover, the micrograph images illustrate the assembly of silk protein chain in 7 days under the treatment of −80ST48 process. The surface morphology characterization proved that this method could control the pore size of porous scaffolds by control of the concentration of silk solution. The animal test showed the support of silk scaffold for cell adhesion and proliferation, as well as the cell migration process in the 3D implantable scaffold.
On the Viscoelastic Parameters of Gussasphalt Mixture Based on Modified Burgers Model: Deviation and Experimental Verification
Authors: Xie Faxiang , Zhang Dengjing , Zhou Ao , Ji Bohai , Chen Lin
Published: March 2017

Viscoelasticity is an important characteristic of gussasphalt mixtures. The aim of this study is to find the correct viscoelastic material parameters of the novel gussasphalt applied in the 4th Yangtze River Bridge based on the modified Burgers model. This study firstly derives the explicit Prony series form of the shear relaxation modulus of viscoelastic material from Laplace transformation, to fulfill the parameter inputting requirements of commonly used finite element software suites. Secondly, a kind of uniaxial penetration creep experiment on the gussasphalt mixtures is conducted. By fitting the creep compliance, the viscoelastic parameters characterized by the modified Burgers model are obtained. And thirdly, based on the viscoelastic test data of asphalt mixtures, the Prony series formula derived in this study is verified through the finite element simulation. The comparison results of the relative errors between the finite element simulation and the theoretical calculation confirm the reliability of the Prony series formulas deduced in this research. And finally, a stress-correcting method is proposed, which can significantly improve the accuracy of model parameters identification and reduce the relative error between the finite element simulation and the experimental data.
The Associations of Serum Uric Acid with Obesity-Related Acanthosis nigricans and Related Metabolic Indices
Authors: Zhu Cuiling , Cui Ran , Gao Mingming , Rampersad Sharvan , You Hui , Sheng Chunjun , Yang Peng , Sheng Hui , Cheng Xiaoyun , Bu Le , Qu Shen
Published: March 2017

Objective. Recent studies have shown that hyperuricemia (HUA) is associated with hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome (MetS). We aimed to examine the relationship of serum UA with Acanthosis nigricans (AN) and related metabolic indices in obese patients. Methods. A cross-sectional study with 411 obese patients recruited from our department was analyzed in this study. Weight, body mass index (BMI), UA, lipid profile, liver function, and renal function were measured in all participants. Oral glucose tolerance tests were performed, and serum glucose, insulin, and C peptide were measured at 0, 30, 60, 120, and 180 min. Results. AN group had higher serum UA levels than OB group. Circulating UA levels were associated with BMI, dyslipidemia, hypertension, IR, and AN. In logistic regression analyses (multivariable‐adjusted), a high serum UA level was associated with high odds ratios (ORs) (95% confidence interval [CI]) for AN in females (ORs = 3.00 and 95% CI [1.02–8.84]) and males (ORs = 6.07 and 95% CI [2.16–17.06]) in the highest quartile (Q4) of serum UA. Conclusions. Serum UA levels were positively associated with multiple metabolic abnormalities including obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and AN and may be an important risk factor in the development of AN; further evidences in vitro and in vivo are needed to investigate the direct or indirect relationship.
Electrostatic Switch Function in the Mechanism of Protein Kinase A IαActivation: Results of the Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Rogacheva Olga N. , Shchegolev Boris F. , Vershinina Elena A. , Tokmakov Alexander A. , Stefanov Vasiliy E.
Published: March 2017

We used molecular dynamics to find the average path of the A-domainH→Bconformational transition in protein kinase A Iα. We obtained thirteen productive trajectories and processed them sequentially using factor and cross-correlation analyses. The conformational transition is presented as partly deterministic sequence of six events. Event B representsH→Btransition of the phosphate binding cassette. Main participants of this event form electrostatic switch cAMP(O6)–A202(N-H)–G199(C=O). Through this switch, cAMP transmits information about its binding to hydrophobic switch L203–Y229 and thus triggers conformational transition of A-domain. Events C and D consist in N3A-motif displacement towards phosphate binding cassette and B/C-helix rotation. Event E involves an increase in interaction energy between Y229 andβ-subdomain. Taken together, events B, E, and D correspond to the hinge movement towardsβ-barrel. Transition of B/C-helix turn (a.a. 229–234) fromα-form toπ-form accounts for event F. Event G implies thatπ-helical turn is replaced by kink. Emerging in the resulting conformation, electrostatic interaction R241–E200 facilitates kink formation. The obtained data on the mechanism of cAMP-dependent activation of PKA Iαmay contribute to new approaches to designing pharmaceuticals based on cAMP analogs.
Synthetic Peptides as Potential Antigens for Cutaneous Leishmaniosis Diagnosis
Authors: Link Juliana Seger , Alban Silvana Maria , Soccol Carlos Ricardo , Pereira Gilberto Vinicius Melo , Thomaz Soccol Vanete
Published: March 2017

This work’s goal was to research new candidate antigens for cutaneous leishmaniosis (CL). In order to reach the goal, we used random peptide phage display libraries screened using antibodies fromLeishmania braziliensispatients. After selection, three peptides (P1, P2, and P3) were synthesized using Fmoc chemistry. The peptides individually or a mixture of them (MIX) was subsequently emulsified in complete and incomplete Freund’s adjuvant and injected subcutaneously in golden hamsters. Sera from the hamsters administered with P1 presented antibodies that recognized proteins between 76 and 150 kDa fromL. braziliensis. Sera from hamsters which had peptides P2 and P3, as well as the MIX, administered presented antibodies that recognized proteins between 52 and 76 kDa ofL. braziliensis. The research on the similarity of the peptides’ sequences in protein databases showed that they match a 63 kDa glycoprotein. The three peptides and the MIX were recognized by the sera from CL patients by immunoassay approach (ELISA). The peptides’ MIX showed the best performance (79% sensitivity) followed by the P1 (72% sensitivity), and the AS presented 91% sensitivity. These results show a new route for discovering molecules for diagnosis or for immunoprotection against leishmaniosis.
Root ZX Electronic Foramen Locator: An Ex Vivo Study of Its Three Models’ Precision and Reproducibility
Authors: Aguiar Bernardo Almeida , Reinaldo Rafael Santos , Frota Luciana Maria Arcanjo , do Vale Mônica Sampaio , Vasconcelos Bruno Carvalho de
Published: March 2017

Although Root ZX is considered the gold standard electronic foramen locator (EFL), two variations of this device were launched, however without different operating mechanisms. This investigation aims to evaluate the precision of Root ZX (RZX), Root ZX II (RII), and Root ZX Mini (RM) EFLs. After access cavity preparation, 32 mandibular single rooted human premolars had their real length measured with the aid of a #15 K-type manual file under magnification (25x). Electronic measurements were performed by the devices in an alternate order until the apical foramen was reached (0.0). Each measurement was performed with adjusted file to the real length of the teeth and verified with a digital caliper. The accuracy of the EFLs was 68.8% (RZX), 65.8% (RII), and 68.8% (RM), considering ±0.5 mm as a margin of tolerance. The mean errors of the devices were0.37±0.25 mm (RZX),0.41±0.34 mm (RII), and0.32±0.28 mm (RM). ANOVA and Tukey test were applied to analyze the obtained data, which showed that there were no statistically significant differences among the locators (P>.05). It can be concluded that the three tested devices demonstrated precise measurements of the real length of the canal without performance differences among them.
Evaluation of Renal Function in Pregnant Women with Malaria: A Case-Control Study in a Mesoendemic Area
Authors: Afrifa Justice , Essien-Baidoo Samuel , Baffour Gyau Albert , Ephraim Richard Kobina Dadzie
Published: March 2017

Background.Malaria is known to have devastating effects on mortality in tropical and subtropical regions with the effect being magnified in people with weakened immunity such as those in pregnancy. We assessed the effect of malaria on renal function of pregnant women receiving antenatal care in a mesoendemic area of Ghana.Methodology.A case-control study that enrolled a total of 100 pregnant women (50 with confirmed gestational malaria as cases and 50 without malaria as controls). Sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric history (obtained with a questionnaire), urea, creatinine, sodium, and potassium were analyzed using a chemistry automated analyzer.Results.Plasma urea and creatinine were significantly increased (P=0.0003andP<0.0001, resp.) among cases compared to the controls. Also the levels of urea (P=0.033), creatinine (P=0.032), and parasitaemia (0.016) were significantly increased with increasing gestational age.Conclusion.Malaria has a significant impact on renal function (most importantly, urea and creatinine) and is also significantly associated with increasing gestational age among our study participants.
(Anti)chiral Superfield Approach to Nilpotent Symmetries: Self-Dual Chiral Bosonic Theory
Authors: Srinivas N. , Bhanja T. , Malik R. P.
Published: March 2017

We exploit the beauty and strength of the symmetry invariant restrictions on the (anti)chiral superfields to derive the Becchi-Rouet-Stora-Tyutin (BRST), anti-BRST, and (anti-)co-BRST symmetry transformations in the case of a two (1+1)-dimensional (2D) self-dual chiral bosonic field theory within the framework of augmented (anti)chiral superfield formalism. Our 2D ordinary theory is generalized onto a (2,2)-dimensional supermanifold which is parameterized by the superspace variable ZM=xμ,θ,θ¯, where xμ (with μ=0,1) are the ordinary 2D bosonic coordinates and (θ,θ¯) are a pair of Grassmannian variables with their standard relationships: θ2=θ¯2=0, θθ¯+θ¯θ=0. We impose the (anti-)BRST and (anti-)co-BRST invariant restrictions on the (anti)chiral superfields (defined on the (anti)chiral (2,1)-dimensional supersubmanifolds of the above general (2,2)-dimensional supermanifold) to derive the above nilpotent symmetries. We do not exploit the mathematical strength of the (dual-)horizontality conditions anywhere in our present investigation. We also discuss the properties of nilpotency, absolute anticommutativity, and (anti-)BRST and (anti-)co-BRST symmetry invariance of the Lagrangian density within the framework of our augmented (anti)chiral superfield formalism. Our observation of the absolute anticommutativity property is a completely novel result in view of the fact that we have considered only the (anti)chiral superfields in our present endeavor.
Evidence of Presynaptic Localization and Function of the c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase
Authors: Biggi Silvia , Buccarello Lucia , Sclip Alessandra , Lippiello Pellegrino , Tonna Noemi , Rumio Cristiano , Di Marino Daniele , Miniaci Maria Concetta , Borsello Tiziana
Published: March 2017

The c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) is part of a stress signalling pathway strongly activated by NMDA-stimulation and involved in synaptic plasticity. Many studies have been focused on the post-synaptic mechanism of JNK action, and less is known about JNK presynaptic localization and its physiological role at this site. Here we examined whether JNK is present at the presynaptic site and its activity after presynaptic NMDA receptors stimulation. By using N-SIM Structured Super Resolution Microscopy as well as biochemical approaches, we demonstrated that presynaptic fractions contained significant amount of JNK protein and its activated form. By means of modelling design, we found that JNK, via the JBD domain, acts as a physiological effector on T-SNARE proteins; then using biochemical approaches we demonstrated the interaction between Syntaxin-1-JNK, Syntaxin-2-JNK, and Snap25-JNK. In addition, taking advance of the specific JNK inhibitor peptide, D-JNKI1, we defined JNK action on the SNARE complex formation. Finally, electrophysiological recordings confirmed the role of JNK in the presynaptic modulation of vesicle release. These data suggest that JNK-dependent phosphorylation of T-SNARE proteins may have an important functional role in synaptic plasticity.
Gland New Psychosis: New Onset Adult Psychosis with Suicidal Ideation and Attempt in the Setting of Thyroid Storm
Authors: Cota Esteban , Lentz Jacob
Published: March 2017

We present a case of new onset psychosis in the setting of thyroid storm in a woman with no previous psychiatric history. The patient presented with ongoing suicidal ideation, a suicide attempt that was interrupted by her husband, and audio and visual hallucinations. The patient was placed on a psychiatric hold and treated for thyrotoxicosis as well as psychosis. Treatment of the thyroid hormone overload resulted in a rapid resolution of her symptoms; she was discharged in excellent condition, and she has had no repeat hallucinations or self-injury ideation or attempts since. Although rare, thyrotoxicosis is a potentially life-threatening cause of psychiatric illness and should always be kept on the differential diagnosis for a patient with a first episode of psychosis. This case highlights how thyroid storm physiology, beyond its well-studied hemodynamic and metabolic instability, can be potentially fatal due to psychiatric sequelae. It also highlights the crucial role of a thorough history and physical exam in all patients.
Association between Parathyroid Hormone, 25 (OH) Vitamin D, and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Wang Wei-Hao , Chen Li-Wei , Lee Chin-Chan , Sun Chiao-Yin , Shyu Yu-Chiau , Hsu Heng-Rong , Chien Rong-Nang , Wu I-Wen
Published: March 2017

Identification of the accurate risk factor for CKD remains mandatory to combat the high prevalence of diseases. Growing evidence suggests the association of serum vitamin D with diverse health conditions. However, the relationship between vitamin D, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), and calcium-phosphate metabolism and development of CKD remains controversial. We conduct this cross-sectional observational study to investigate the association between serum 25 (OH) vitamin D, intact PTH, and calcium and phosphate levels with eGFR and albuminuria, as a surrogate marker of CKD, in a community population. A total of 4080 participants were recruited. The mean age was 58.4 ± 13.3 years and 1480 (36.3%) were men. The mean eGFR was 94.1 ± 26.3 mL/min/1.73 m2. The prevalence of CKD was 19.8%. Serum 25 (OH) vitamin D and log intact PTH levels were inversely correlated with eGFR but positively correlated with log albuminuria. Logistic regression analysis identified the log intact PTH as an independent factor associated with eGFR ≤ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2and proteinuria. This association was consistent when serum intact PTH was analyzed as continuous as well as categorical variables (as hyperparathyroidism). The relationship remains significant using resampling subset analysis with comparable baseline characteristics and adjustment for 25 (OH) vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate levels. This finding warranted further research to clarify the causal relationship of PTH/25 (OH) vitamin D with the risk of CKD in the general population.
Delusional Disorder, Erotomanic Type, Exacerbated by Social Media Use
Authors: Faden Justin , Levin Jonathan , Mistry Ronak , Wang Jessica
Published: March 2017

Erotomania is an uncommon form of delusional disorder in which an individual has an unfounded belief that another is in love with him. Previous case reports have shown that social media networks may play a role in worsening delusional beliefs. We report the case of a 24-year-old male college student that utilized social media to stalk a female college student, resulting in his suspension from school and hospitalization. The student was diagnosed with delusional disorder, erotomanic type, and started on risperidone. He showed little improvement and was transferred to another facility. This is the first identified case of social media triggering or exacerbating delusional disorder. We recommend increasing education on the ramifications of sharing personal information on social media.
Promoter Methylation Modulates Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase 1 Induction by Activated T Cells in Human Breast Cancers
Authors: Noonepalle Satish K. , Gu Franklin , Lee Eun-Joon , Choi Jeong-Hyeon , Han Qimei , Kim Jaejik , Ouzounova Maria , Shull Austin Y. , Pei Lirong , Hsu Pei-Yin , Kolhe Ravindra , Shi Fang , Choi Jiseok , Chiou Katie , Huang Tim H.M. , Korkaya Hasan , Deng Libin , Xin Hong-Bo , Huang Shuang , Thangaraju Muthusamy , Sreekumar Arun , Ambs Stefan , Tang Shou-Ching , Munn David H. , Shi Huidong
Published: March 2017

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells are modulated in reaction to tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. However, their specific responses to this immune pressure are unknown. In order to address this question, we first used mRNA sequencing to compare the immunophenotype of the TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231 and the luminal breast cancer cell line MCF7 after both were cocultured with activated human T cells. Despite similarities in the cytokine-induced immune signatures of the two cell lines, MDA-MD-231 cells were able to transcribe more IDO1 than MCF7 cells. The two cell lines had similar upstream JAK/STAT1 signaling and IDO1 mRNA stability. However, using a series of breast cancer cell lines, IFNγ stimulated IDO1 protein expression and enzymatic activity only in ER−, not ER+, cell lines. Treatment with 5-aza-deoxycytidine reversed the suppression of IDO1 expression in MCF7 cells, suggesting that DNA methylation was potentially involved in IDO1 induction. By analyzing several breast cancer datasets, we discovered subtype-specific mRNA and promoter methylation differences in IDO1, with TNBC/basal subtypes exhibiting lower methylation/higher expression and ER+/luminal subtypes exhibiting higher methylation/lower expression. We confirmed this trend of IDO1 methylation by bisulfite pyrosequencing breast cancer cell lines and an independent cohort of primary breast tumors. Taken together, these findings suggest that IDO1 promoter methylation regulates anti-immune responses in breast cancer subtypes and could be used as a predictive biomarker for IDO1 inhibitor–based immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Res; 5(4); 330–44. ©2017 AACR.
Lingual Articulation and Coarticulation for Catalan Consonants and Vowels: An Ultrasound Study
Authors: Recasens Daniel , Rodríguez Clara
Published: March 2017

Background: The study investigates the tongue position and coarticulatory characteristics of a subset of Catalan consonants and vowels using ultrasound. Method: Ultrasound data were recorded and analyzed for the Catalan front lingual consonants /t, d, n, l, ɾ, s, r, ʎ, ɲ, ʃ/ and vowels /i, e, a, o, u/ in symmetrical VCV sequences produced by 5 adult Catalan speakers. Results: Among other aspects, data show more tongue body fronting for palatal consonants and, among dentals and alveolars, for laminals than for apicals; the manner of articulation demands account for considerable tongue body retraction and predorsum lowering during the trill /r/ and for some tongue body retraction during /l/ next to front vowels. Vowel and consonant coarticulation occurs mostly in lingual regions which are not primarily involved in closure or constriction formation. Differences in the relative prominence of the anticipatory and carryover consonant-to-vowel effects in tongue body position were found to hold clearly for /r/ in all vowel contexts and for palatal consonants next to /a, o, u/. Conclusions: Place-dependent and manner-dependent articulatory characteristics for consonants and vowels account for the most relevant coarticulatory effects and may contribute to explain several sound change patterns.
Randomised Comparison of a Novel Buprenorphine Oral Lyophilisate versus Existing Buprenorphine Sublingual Tablets in Opioid-Dependent Patients: A First-in-Patient Phase II Randomised Open Label Safety Study
Authors: Strang John , Reed Kylie , Bogdanowicz Karolina , Bell James , van der Waal Rob , Keen Jenny , Beavan Pete , Baillie Shelagh , Knight Alastair
Published: March 2017

Aims: To test the safety of new buprenorphine oral lyophilisate wafer (“bup-lyo”) versus standard sub-lingual buprenorphine (“bup-SL”). Design: Randomised (2:1) open-label study; opioid-dependent subjects; subsequent partial cross-over. Settings: Specialised clinical trials facility and addictions treatment facility. Participants: Opioid-dependent subjects (n = 36) commencing buprenorphine maintenance (personalised dose-titration) including patients co-using alcohol, cocaine and benzodiazepines (below thresholds). Measurements: Respiratory function (respiratory rate, pulse-oximetry); medication hold and dose adequacy; opiate withdrawal signs and symptoms; tablet disintegration times; treatment retention. Pharmacokinetics (PK) for plasma buprenorphine and norbuprenorphine (n = 11). Findings: Oral lyophilised buprenorphine (“bup-lyo”) completely dissolved within 2 min for 58 vs. 5% for “bup-SL.” Dose titration resulted in similar maintenance dosing (10.8 vs. 9.6 mg). There were no significant between-group differences in opiate-withdrawal phenomena, craving, adequacy of “hold,” respiratory function. No serious adverse events (AEs), nor “severe” AEs, although more AEs and Treatment-Emergent AEs with “bup-lyo” (mostly “mild”). PK found greater bioavailability of buprenorphine with “bup-lyo” (but not norbuprenorphine). Conclusions: Orally disintegrating buprenorphine oral lyophilisate wafer disintegrated rapidly. No increased respiratory depression was found and clinically no difference between medications was observed. PK found substantially increased bioavailability of buprenorphine (but not of nor-buprenorphine) with “bup-lyo” relative to “bup-SL.” In supervised dosing contexts, rapidly disintegrating formulations may enable wider buprenorphine prescribing.
Effectiveness of Pertuzumab, Trastuzumab, and Docetaxel Combination Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for HER2-Positive Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Yamashita Yuji , Tanaka Yuko , Kono Seishi , Nishimura Meiko , Mukohara Toru , Morinaga Yukiko , Hara Shigeo , Takao Shintaro
Published: March 2017

Background: Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most aggressive form of primary breast cancer. Case Report: A 40-year-old woman was referred to our hospital for evaluation of an induration in the right breast, suspected to be breast cancer. The tumor was diagnosed as estrogen receptor-negative, progesterone receptor-negative, HER2-positive, T4dN3cM0 stage IIIc IBC with axillary lymph node metastasis. Rather than surgical intervention, we chose a systemic treatment approach with pertuzumab, trastuzumab, and docetaxel (PTD) combination therapy which was shown to be effective for HER2-positive IBC in the NeoSphere trial. After 4 cycles of treatment, the patient had a partial response, allowing mastectomy of the right breast and axillary lymph node dissection to achieve local control. We review this case because of the success of PTD combination neoadjuvant chemotherapy for HER2-positive IBC. Conclusion: To improve the poor prognosis of IBC, combined modality therapy is required, including chemotherapy and local treatment such as surgery and/or radiation therapy. In this case, combination neoadjuvant chemotherapy with PTD for HER2-positive IBC was effective, and this regimen may contribute to further improvements in the cure rate for this malignancy.
Anterior 360° Synechiolysis in a Case of Late Iridocorneal Adhesions after 25-G Vitrectomy: Surgical and Physiopathogenetic Aspects
Authors: Nuzzi Raffaele , Monteu Francesca
Published: March 2017

We describe the case of an 86-year-old patient, pseudophakic in both eyes and with high myopia, who had previously had a 25-G vitrectomy with 20% C3F8 used as a tamponade due to a total retinal detachment with choroidal hemorrhages and macular hole. At the postoperative 4-month follow-up, we found 360° iridocorneal synechiae with elevated intraocular pressure due to angle closure in all sectors, with an adherent retina and in the absence of choroidal hemorrhage/detachment and of corneal edema or endothelial damage. The patient was, therefore, hospitalized to receive 360° anterior synechiolysis with a single opening to the corneal limbus, like in paracentesis, with topical anesthesia. We have tried to study the possible causes of this case history. However, it should be recognized that the development of iridocorneal synechiae and the rise of intraocular pressure can be a possible complication of air/C3F8 vitrectomy, which cannot be managed with medical therapy. It will be essential to monitor the situation and to hospitalize the patient for surgical synechiolysis to restore the normal anatomy and physiology and to correct the ocular hypertension. During the vitrectomy, we will have to introduce in advance an adequate amount of viscoelastic material in the anterior chamber and to perform a preventive surgical iridectomy, even if the iridocorneal angle is open in all sectors.
RASSF10 is Epigenetically Inactivated and Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Induces Cell Apoptosis by Activating the p53 Signalling Pathway in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Cancer
Authors: Fan Cheng , Wang Wendy , Jin Ji , Yu Zhuo , Xin Xiping
Published: March 2017

Objectives: We aimed to confirm whether RASSF10 activated the p53 signalling pathway, thereby modulating cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) cells. Methods: A total of 108 PTC tissue samples and normal adjacent tissues were obtained. RT-PCR and Western blotting analyses were performed to detect RASSF10 expression, and methylation levels of RASSF10 were estimated by methylation-specific PCR (MSP). We also detected the expression and methylation status of RASSF10 in both a human PTC cell line (K1) and a normal thyroid cell line (FRTL5). After transfection of cells with empty vector pcDNA3.1, pcDNA3.1-RASSF10, p53 siRNA and shRASSF10, Coulter counter, colony-formation, wound healing, Transwell and flow cytometry analyses were performed to examine the role of RASSF10 in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Finally, the expression of p53, p21, Bcl-2 and Bax were detected using Western Blotting analyses. Results: RASSF10 expression in PTC tissues was significantly lower and hyper-methylated compared to normal adjacent tissues. In addition, RASSF10 was significantly down-regulated and hyper-methylated in K1 cells compared to FRTL5 cells. In addition, suppressed proliferation and significantly induced apoptosis of K1 cells were observed after transfection with pcDNA3.1-RASSF10 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, RASSF10 activated the p53 signalling pathway and regulated the expression of p53, p21, Bcl-2 and Bax. Furthermore, p53 siRNA could antagonize the effects of RASSF10 in K1 cells. Conclusions: RASSF10 induces apoptosis in PTC cells by activating the p53 signalling pathway, indicating its role as a treatment target for PTC.
Treg Cells Protect Dopaminergic Neurons against MPP+ Neurotoxicity via CD47-SIRPA Interaction
Authors: Huang Yan , Liu Zhan , Cao Bei-Bei , Qiu Yi-Hua , Peng Yu-Ping
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Regulatory T (Treg) cells have been associated with neuroprotection by inhibiting microglial activation in animal models of Parkinson's disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by dopaminergic neuronal loss in the nigrostriatal system. Herein, we show that Treg cells directly protect dopaminergic neurons against 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) neurotoxicity via an interaction between the two transmembrane proteins CD47 and signal regulatory protein α (SIRPA). Methods: Primary ventral mesencephalic (VM) cells or VM neurons were pretreated with Treg cells before MPP+ treatment. Transwell co-culture of Treg cells and VM neurons was used to assess the effects of the Treg cytokines transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and interleukin (IL)-10 on dopaminergic neurons. Live cell imaging system detected a dynamic contact of Treg cells with VM neurons that were stained with CD47 and SIRPA, respectively. Dopaminergic neuronal loss, which was assessed by the number of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-immunoreactive cells, was examined after silencing CD47 in Treg cells or silencing SIRPA in VM neurons. Results: Treg cells prevented MPP+-induced dopaminergic neuronal loss and glial inflammatory responses. TGF-β1 and IL-10 secreted from Treg cells did not significantly prevent MPP+-induced dopaminergic neuronal loss in transwell co-culture of Treg cells and VM neurons. CD47 and SIRPA were expressed by Treg cells and VM neurons, respectively. CD47-labeled Treg cells dynamically contacted with SIRPA-labeled VM neurons. Silencing CD47 gene in Treg cells impaired the ability of Treg cells to protect dopaminergic neurons against MPP+ toxicity. Similarly, SIRPA knockdown in VM neurons reduced the ability of Treg cell neuroprotection. Rac1/Akt signaling pathway in VM neurons was activated by CD47-SIRPA interaction between Treg cells and the neurons. Inhibiting Rac1/Akt signaling in VM neurons compromised Treg cell neuroprotection. Conclusion: Treg cells protect dopaminergic neurons against MPP+ neurotoxicity by a cell-to-cell contact mechanism underlying CD47-SIRPA interaction and Rac1/Akt activation.
Green Tea Induced Cellular Proliferation and the Expression of Transforming Growth Factor-β1 in the Jejunal Mucosa of Fasting Rats
Authors: Mathew Thazhumpal C. , Abdeen Suad M. , Dashti Hussain , Asfar Sami
Published: March 2017

Objective: The aim of this study was to understand whether or not the protective effect of green tea after fasting-induced damage in the jejunal mucosa of rat is dependent on cell proliferation and the stimulation of specific growth factors. Materials and Methods: Sixty adult male Wistar rats were used in this study. The animals were divided randomly into 5 groups, with 12 in each group (G1-5). The animals in G1 (control group) were fed a rat chow diet and water ad libitum. The animals in G2 (fasting group) were fasted for 3 days. The animals in the G3, G4, and G5 groups were fasted for 3 days as G2, but were given water (G3), green tea (G4), or a vitamin E (G5) solution, respectively, for another 7 days. The animals were euthanized, and the jejunum was removed and processed for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Results: Compared to the G3 group, the jejunal mucosa of G4 rats showed a 70.6% higher level (p < 0.001) of expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and 98% higher level (p = 0.0001) of the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), whereas the level of fibroblast growth factor-1 (FGF-1) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) expression was 22 and 11% lower, respectively, in G4 animals as compared to G3 rats. These differences in the expression of FGF-1 and IGF-1 in G4 animals were not statistically significant. Conclusion: In this study, green tea repaired the fasting-induced damage in the jejunal mucosa of rats, mainly by inducing a significant expression of TGF-β1 in the jejunal mucosa.
Multiple Causes of Hyponatremia: A Case Report
Authors: Icin Tijana , Medic-Stojanoska Milica , Ilic Tatjana , Kuzmanovic Vladimir , Vukovic Bojan , Percic Ivanka , Kovacev-Zavisic Branka
Published: March 2017

Objective: To present a case with 4 different potential causes of hyponatremia. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: The patient presented with the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dark urine after drinking large amounts of fluids that included alcohol and caffeine. Laboratory, microbiological, and morphological examinations revealed the existence of severe hyponatremia and acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis. The patient developed acute symptomatic seizures and coma. Gradual normalization of the sodium level led to a recovery of consciousness. Conclusion: Treatment with hypertonic sodium, fluid restriction, and antibiotics led to a complete recovery. In the case of multiple causes of hyponatremia, it is necessary to treat all causes.
Association Between Early Q Waves and Reperfusion Success in Patients With ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction Treated With Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Topal Divan Gabriel , Lønborg Jacob , Ahtarovski Kiril Aleksov , Nepper-Christensen Lars , Helqvist Steffen , Holmvang Lene , Pedersen Frants , Clemmensen Peter , Saünamaki Kari , Jørgensen Erik , Kyhl Kasper , Ghotbi Ali , Schoos Mikkel Malby , Göransson Christoffer , Bertelsen Litten , Høfsten Dan , Køber Lars , Kelbæk Henning , Vejlstrup Niels , Engstrøm Thomas
Published: March 2017

Background—

Pathological early Q waves (QW) are associated with adverse outcomes in patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) may therefore be less beneficial in patients with QW than in patients without QW. Myocardial salvage index and microvascular obstruction (MVO) are markers for reperfusion success. Thus, to clarify the benefit from primary PCI in STEMI patients with QW, we examined the association between baseline QW and myocardial salvage index and MVO in STEMI patients treated with primary PCI.

Methods and Results—

The ECG was assessed before primary PCI for the presence of QW (early) in 515 STEMI patients. The patients underwent a cardiac magnetic resonance imaging scan at day 1 (interquartile range [IQR], 1–1) and again at day 92 (IQR, 89–96). Early QW was observed in 108 (21%) patients and was related to smaller final myocardial salvage index (0.59 [IQR, 0.39–0.69] versus 0.65 [IQR, 0.46–0.84];
P
<0.001) and larger MVO (1.4 [IQR, 0.0–5.4] versus 0.0 [IQR, 0.0–2.4];
P
<0.001) compared with non-QW. QW remained associated with both final myocardial salvage index (β=−0.12;
P
=0.03) and MVO (β=0.18;
P
=0.001) after adjusting for potential confounders.

Conclusions—

Patients presenting with their first STEMI and early QW in the ECG had smaller myocardial salvage index and more extensive MVO than non-QW despite treatment within 12 hours after symptom onset. However, final myocardial salvage index in patients with QW was substantial, and patients with QW still benefit from primary PCI.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01435408.
Relations of Arterial Stiffness With Postural Change in Mean Arterial Pressure in Middle-Aged Adults
Authors: Torjesen Alyssa , Cooper Leroy L. , Rong Jian , Larson Martin G. , Hamburg Naomi M. , Levy Daniel , Benjamin Emelia J. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Mitchell Gary F.
Published: March 2017

Impaired regulation of blood pressure on standing can lead to adverse outcomes, including falls, syncope, and disorientation. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) typically increases on standing; however, an insufficient increase or a decline in MAP on standing may result in decreased cerebral perfusion. Orthostatic hypotension has been reported in older people with increased arterial stiffness, whereas the association between orthostatic change in MAP and arterial stiffness in young- to middle-aged individuals has not been examined. We analyzed orthostatic blood pressure response and comprehensive hemodynamic data in 3205 participants (1693 [53%] women) in the Framingham Heart Study Third Generation cohort. Participants were predominantly middle aged (mean age: 46±9 years). Arterial stiffness was assessed using carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity, forward pressure wave amplitude, and characteristic impedance of the aorta. Adjusting for standard cardiovascular disease risk factors, orthostatic change in MAP (6.9±7.7 mm Hg) was inversely associated with carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (partial correlation,
r
p
=−0.084;
P
<0.0001), forward wave amplitude (
r
p
=−0.129;
P
<0.0001), and characteristic impedance (
r
p
=−0.094;
P
<0.0001). The negative relation between forward wave amplitude and change in MAP on standing was accentuated in women (
P
=0.002 for sex interaction). Thus, higher aortic stiffness was associated with a blunted orthostatic increase in MAP, even in middle age. The clinical implications of these findings warrant further study.
Muscle Attenuation Is Associated With Newly Developed Hypertension in Men of African Ancestry
Authors: Zhao Qian , Zmuda Joseph M. , Kuipers Allison L. , Bunker Clareann H. , Patrick Alan L. , Youk Ada O. , Miljkovic Iva
Published: March 2017

Increased ectopic adipose tissue infiltration in skeletal muscle is associated with insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus. We evaluated whether change in skeletal muscle adiposity predicts subsequent development of hypertension in men of African ancestry, a population sample understudied in previous studies. In the Tobago Health Study, a prospective longitudinal study among men of African ancestry (age range 40–91 years), calf intermuscular adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle attenuation were measured with computed tomography. Hypertension was defined as a systolic blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg, or a diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mm Hg, or receiving antihypertensive medications. Logistic regression was performed with adjustment for age, insulin resistance, baseline and 6-year change in body mass index, baseline and 6-year change in waist circumference, and other potential confounding factors. Among 746 normotensive men at baseline, 321 (43%) developed hypertension during the mean 6.2 years of follow-up. Decreased skeletal muscle attenuation was associated with newly developed hypertension after adjustment for baseline and 6-year change of body mass index (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] per SD, 1.3 [1.0–1.6]) or baseline and 6-year change of waist circumference (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] per SD, 1.3 [1.0–1.6]). No association was observed between increased intermuscular adipose tissue and hypertension. Our novel findings show that decreased muscle attenuation is associated with newly developed hypertension among men of African ancestry, independent of general and central adiposity and insulin resistance. Further studies are needed to adjust for inflammation, visceral and other ectopic adipose tissue depots, and to confirm our findings in other population samples.
Impact of Medication Adherence on the Effect of Renal Denervation
Authors: de Jager Rosa L. , de Beus Esther , Beeftink Martine M.A. , Sanders Margreet F. , Vonken Evert-Jan , Voskuil Michiel , van Maarseveen Erik M. , Bots Michiel L. , Blankestijn Peter J.
Published: March 2017

Randomized trials of catheter-based renal denervation (RDN) as therapy for resistant hypertension showed conflicting results in blood pressure (BP) lowering effect. Adherence to medication is modest in this patient group and may importantly drive these conflicting results. SYMPATHY is a prospective open label multicenter trial in Dutch patients with resistant hypertension. Primary outcome was change in daytime systolic ambulatory BP at 6 months. Patients were randomly assigned to RDN on top of usual care. Adherence to BP lowering drugs was assessed at baseline and follow-up, using blood samples drawn synchronously with BP measurements. Patients and physicians were unaware of the adherence assessment. Primary analyses showed a mean difference between RDN (n=95) and control (n=44) in changes in daytime systolic ambulatory BP after 6 months of 2.0 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, −6.1 to 10.2 mm Hg) in favor of control. In 80% of patients, fewer medications were detected than prescribed and adherence changed during follow-up in 31%. In those with stable adherence during follow-up, mean difference between RDN and control for daytime systolic ambulatory BP was −3.3 mm Hg (−13.7 to 7.2 mm Hg) in favor of RDN. RDN as therapy for resistant hypertension was not superior to usual care. Objective assessment of medication use shows that medication adherence is extremely poor, when patients are unaware of monitoring. Changes over time in adherence are common and affect treatment estimates considerably. Objective measurement of medication adherence during follow-up is strongly recommended in randomized trials.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01850901.
Is There an Obesity Paradox for Outcomes in Atrial Fibrillation?
Authors: Proietti Marco , Guiducci Elisa , Cheli Paola , Lip Gregory Y.H.
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

Obesity is a risk factor for all-cause and cardiovascular death but, despite this, an inverse relationship between overweight or obesity and a better cardiovascular prognosis in long-term follow-up studies has been observed; this phenomenon, described as obesity paradox, has also been found evident in atrial fibrillation cohorts.

Methods—

We performed a systematic review on the relationship between body mass index and major adverse outcomes in atrial fibrillation patients. Moreover, we provided a meta-analysis of non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) trials.

Results—

An obesity paradox was found for cardiovascular death and all-cause death in the subgroup analyses of randomized trial cohorts; however, observational studies fail to show this relationship. From the meta-analysis of NOAC trials, a significant obesity paradox was found, with both overweight and obese patients reporting a lower risk for stroke/systemic embolic event (odds ratio [OR], 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.66–0.84 and OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.54–0.70, respectively). For major bleeding, only obese patients were at lower risk compared with normal weight patients (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.72–0.98). A significant treatment effect of NOACs was found in normal weight patients, both for stroke/systemic embolic event (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.56–0.78) and for major bleeding (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.54–0.95). Major bleeding risk was lower in overweight patients treated with NOACs (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.71–1.00).

Conclusions—

There may be an obesity paradox in atrial fibrillation patients, particularly for all-cause and cardiovascular death outcomes. An obesity paradox was also evident for stroke/systemic embolic event outcome in NOAC trials, with a treatment effect favoring NOACs over warfarin for both efficacy and safety that was significant only for normal weight patients.
Ceriporia albomellea (Phanerochaetaceae, Basidiomycota), a new species from tropical China based on morphological and molecular evidences
Authors: YUAN YUAN , JI XIAO-HONG , WU FANG , CHEN JIA-JIA
Published: March 2017

A new polypore, Ceriporia albomellea, collected from tropical China, is described and illustrated based on morphological characteristics and molecular evidence. It is characterized by thin, resupinate basidiome with a white subiculum, cottony margin, white to cinnamon-buff pores, clavate cystidia and oblong-ellipsoid basidiospores measured as 3.1–3.8 × 1.7–2 µm. Phylogenetic analysis based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions and nuclear large subunit (nLSU) ribosomal RNA gene regions supported C. albomellea as a distinctive species belonging to Ceriporia.
Typification of two species of Luticola (Bacillariophyta) from aerophilic habitats of the Western Ghats, India
Authors: KALE ADITI , LEVKOV ZLATKO , KARTHICK BALASUBRAMANIAN
Published: March 2017

This paper addresses the typification of two Navicula Bory species described by H.P. Gandhi along with a transfer to the genus Luticola D.G.Mann. The species described are Luticola jogensis comb. nov., stat. nov. and Luticola gandhii comb. nov., nom. nov., stat. nov. Both species were encountered in similar aerophilic habitats from the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot from the Indian subcontinent. Light and electron microscopy observations and notes on distribution for both taxa, are presented.
Celtis neglecta (Cannabaceae), a new species from Zhejiang, eastern China
Authors: CHEN ZI-LIN , LU YI-FEI , ZHANG WEI-BIN , XU XIAO-FENG , WANG PAN , JIN XIAO-FENG
Published: March 2017

Celtis neglecta Zi L. Chen & X. F. Jin, a new species from Zhejiang, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is most similar to Celtis julianae C. K. Schneid. and C. vandervoetiana C. K. Schneid. It differs from Celtis julianae in having young shoots, petioles, and both mid-ribs and lateral veins of the lower leaf surfaces densely whitish pubescent, and fruit pedicels glabrous or sparsely whitish pubescent. It differs from Celtis vandervoetiana in having young shoots and petioles densely whitish pubescent, and being sparsely whitish pubescent on the upper leaf surfaces, and densely whitish pubescent on both mid-ribs and lateral veins of the lower leaf surfaces. Sequences of the plastid intergenic spacer regions atpB-rbcL and trnL-trnF demonstrate that Celtis julianae and C. vandervoetiana are the closest extant relatives of this new species.