bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Traveling wave solutions for a diffusive three-species intraguild predation model
Authors: Lin Jian-Jhong , Yang Ting-Hui
Published: November 2017

The aim of this work is to investigate the existence and non-existence of traveling wave solutions for a diffusive three-species intraguild predation model which means that one predator can eat its potential resource competitors. The method of upper–lower solution is implemented to show the existence of traveling wave solutions. In order to simplify the construction of an admissible pair of upper–lower solution, the scheme of strictly contracting rectangle is applied. Finally, the minimal speed [Formula: see text] of traveling wave solutions of the model is characterized. If the wave speed is greater than [Formula: see text], we show the existence of traveling wave solutions connecting trivial and positive equilibria by combining the upper and lower solutions with the contracting rectangle. On the other hand, if the wave speed is less than [Formula: see text], the non-existence of such solutions is also established. Furthermore, to illustrate our theoretical results, some numerical simulations are performed and biological meanings are interpreted.
The Effect of Prucalopride on Small Bowel Transit Time in Hospitalized Patients Undergoing Capsule Endoscopy
Authors: Alsahafi Majid , Cramer Paula , Chatur Nazira , Donnellan Fergal
Published: November 2017

Background. The inpatient status is a well-known risk factor for incomplete video capsule endoscopy (VCE) examinations due to prolonged transit time. We aimed to evaluate the effect of prucalopride on small bowel transit time for hospitalized patients undergoing VCE. Methods. We included all hospitalized patients who underwent VCE at a tertiary academic center from October 2011 through September 2016. A single 2 mg dose of prucalopride was given exclusively for all patients who underwent VCE between March 2014 and December 2015. VCE studies were excluded if the capsule was retained or endoscopically placed, if other prokinetic agents were given, in cases with technical failure, or if patients had prior gastric or small bowel resection. Results. 442 VCE were identified, of which 68 were performed in hospitalized patients. 54 inpatients were included, of which 29 consecutive patients received prucalopride. The prucalopride group had a significantly shorter small bowel transit time compared to the control group (92 versus 275.5, p<0.001). There was a trend for a higher completion rate in the prucalopride group (93.1% versus 76%, p=0.12). Conclusions. Our results suggest that the administration of prucalopride prior to VCE is a simple and effective intervention to decrease small bowel transit time.
The Effect of Perioperative Topical Ketorolac 0.5% on Macular Thickness after Uneventful Phacoemulsification
Authors: Dal Derya , Sarac Ozge , Toklu Yasin , Kocak Altintas Ayse Gul , Cakmak Hasan Basri , Damar Gungor Elif , Simsek Saban
Published: November 2017

Background. To evaluate the effects of topical 0.5% ketorolac treatment combined with topical steroids on macular thickness in cases who had uneventful phacoemulsification surgery. Methods. 58 eyes of 58 consecutive cases were included. The mean foveal thickness (MFT), parafoveal thickness (ParaFT), and perifoveal thickness (PeriFT) measurements were performed with optical coherence tomography (RTVue-100, Optovue, Fremont, CA, USA) preoperatively and at postoperative 1 week, 1 month, and 2 months. All cases received topical 0.1% dexamethasone postoperatively. Randomly selected cases additionally received topical 0.5% ketorolac, which started 2 days prior to surgery. Cases who received both topical steroids and ketorolac formed group 1 and subjects who received only topical steroids formed group 2. Results. The increase in mean MFT at the 1st week, 1st month, and 2nd months after surgery in group 1 was significantly lower than group 2 (P=0.008, P≤0.001, and P≤0.001, resp.). In group 1, the increase in mean ParaFT and PeriFT was significantly lower than group 2 at the 1st and 2nd months of the surgery (P<0.05 for all variables). Conclusions. Topical ketorolac combined with steroids is highly efficacious in order to prevent increment in thickness on each part of the macula even after an uneventful phacoemulsification surgery comparing to steroid monotheraphy.
Intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept in Treatment of Naïve Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy Related Choroidal Neovascular Membrane
Authors: Radke Nishant , Kalamkar Charudutt , Mukherjee Amrita , Radke Snehal
Published: November 2017

Purpose. To study the effect and outcome of intravitreal Ziv-Aflibercept (IVZ) in treatment of Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSCR) related Choroidal Neovascular Membrane (CNVM). Methods. A case report of 48-year-old male patient treated with 1.25 mg/0.05 ml IVZ (total 3 doses at monthly intervals) in CSCR related CNVM. Pre- and posttreatment fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) were done to document response along with improvement in visual acuity. Patients. Single eye of a 48-year-old male patient. Results. Regression of CNVM was noted with improvement of macular contour and thickness on OCT and cessation of leakage on FFA. Visual acuity improved from 3/60, <N36 to 6/12, N12. Discussion. Anti-VEGF injections have shown benefit in treatment of CNVM. There is very little information about benefit of IVZ in CSCR related CNVM. Conclusion. IVZ is effective in regression of CSCR related CNVM and is associated with better macular anatomy and improved visual function.
Development of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube-Based Biosensor for the Detection of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Choi Hyun-Kyung , Lee Jinyoung , Park Mi-Kyung , Oh Jun-Hyun
Published: November 2017

The goal of this research is to develop a single-walled carbon nanotube- (SWCNT-) based biosensor to detect Staphylococcus aureus. The specificity of 11 bacteria and polyclonal anti-Staphylococcus aureus antibodies (pAbs) was determined using an indirect ELISA. The pAbs were immobilized onto sensor platform after the hybridization of 1-pyrenebutanoic acid succinimidyl ester (PBASE). The resistance difference (ΔR) was calculated using a potentiostat. The bacteria detected by the biosensor were observed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The optimum concentration of SWCNTs on the platform was determined to be 0.1 mg/mL. The binding of pAbs with S. aureus resulted in a significant increase in resistance value of the biosensor (P<0.05). The SEM images confirmed the specific binding of S. aureus on the biosensor. The SWCNT-based biosensor was able to detect S. aureus with a limit of detection (LOD) of 4 log⁡CFU/mL.
Myocardial Regeneration via Progenitor Cell-Derived Exosomes
Authors: Maring Janita A. , Beez Christien M. , Falk Volkmar , Seifert Martina , Stamm Christof
Published: November 2017

In the past 20 years, a variety of cell products has been evaluated in terms of their capacity to treat patients with acute myocardial infarction and chronic heart failure. Despite initial enthusiasm, therapeutic efficacy has overall been disappointing, and clinical application is costly and complex. Recently, a subset of small extracellular vesicles (EVs), commonly referred to as “exosomes,” was shown to confer cardioprotective and regenerative signals at a magnitude similar to that of their donor cells. The conceptual advantage is that they may be produced in industrial quantities and stored at the point-of-care for off-the-shelf application, ideally without eliciting a relevant recipient immune response or other adverse effects associated with viable cells. The body of evidence on beneficial exosome-mediated effects in animal models of heart diseases is rapidly growing. However, there is significant heterogeneity in terms of exosome source cells, isolation process, therapeutic dosage, and delivery mode. This review summarizes the current state of research on exosomes as experimental therapy of heart diseases and seeks to identify roadblocks that need to be overcome prior to clinical application.
Uniqueness of the Sum of Points of the Period-Five Cycle of Quadratic Polynomials
Authors: Kosunen Pekka
Published: November 2017

It is well known that the sum of points of the period-five cycle of the quadratic polynomial fc(x)=x2+c is generally not one-valued. In this paper we will show that the sum of cycle points of the curves of period five is at most three-valued on a new coordinate plane and that this result is essentially the best possible. The method of our proof relies on a implementing Gröbner-bases and especially extension theory from the theory of polynomial algebra.
A Novel Image Encryption Algorithm Based on a Fractional-Order Hyperchaotic System and DNA Computing
Authors: Li Taiyong , Yang Minggao , Wu Jiang , Jing Xin
Published: November 2017

In the era of the Internet, image encryption plays an important role in information security. Chaotic systems and DNA operations have been proven to be powerful for image encryption. To further enhance the security of image, in this paper, we propose a novel algorithm that combines the fractional-order hyperchaotic Lorenz system and DNA computing (FOHCLDNA) for image encryption. Specifically, the algorithm consists of four parts: firstly, we use a fractional-order hyperchaotic Lorenz system to generate a pseudorandom sequence that will be utilized during the whole encryption process; secondly, a simple but effective diffusion scheme is performed to spread the little change in one pixel to all the other pixels; thirdly, the plain image is encoded by DNA rules and corresponding DNA operations are performed; finally, global permutation and 2D and 3D permutation are performed on pixels, bits, and acid bases. The extensive experimental results on eight publicly available testing images demonstrate that the encryption algorithm can achieve state-of-the-art performance in terms of security and robustness when compared with some existing methods, showing that the FOHCLDNA is promising for image encryption.
Heterologous Secretory Expression and Characterization of Dimerized Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 inBacillus subtilis
Authors: Hanif Muhammad Umair , Gul Roquyya , Hanif Muhammad Imran , Hashmi Abid Ali
Published: November 2017

Recombinant human Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (rhBMP2) has important applications in the spine fusion and ortho/maxillofacial surgeries. Here we first report the secretory expression of biological active dimerized rhBMP2 fromBacillus subtilissystem. The mature domain of BMP2 gene was amplified from pTz57R/BMP2 plasmid. By using pHT43 expression vector two constructs, pHT43-BMP2-M (single BMP2 gene) and pHT43-BMP2-D (two BMP2 genes coupled with a linker to produce a dimer), were designed. After primary cloning (DH5αstrain) and sequence analysis, constructs were transformed intoBacillus subtilisfor secretory expression. Expression conditions like media (2xYT) and temperature (30°C) were optimized. Maximum 35% and 25% secretory expression of monomer (~13 kDa) and dimer (~25 kDa), respectively, were observed on SDS-PAGE in SCK6 strain. The expression and dimeric nature of rhBMP2 were confirmed by western blot and native PAGE analysis. For rhBMP2 purification, 200 ml culture supernatant was freeze dried to 10 ml and dialyzed (Tris-Cl, pH 8.5) and Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography (6 ml, Resource Q column) was performed. The rhBMP2 monomer and dimer were eluted at 0.9 M and 0.6 M NaCl, respectively. The alkaline phosphatase assay of rhBMP2 (0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 ng/ml) was analyzed on C2C12 cells and maximum 200 ng/ml activity was observed in dose dependent manner.
Finding p-Hub Median Locations: An Empirical Study on Problems and Solution Techniques
Authors: Sun Xiaoqian , Dai Weibin , Zhang Yu , Wandelt Sebastian
Published: November 2017

Hub location problems have been studied by many researchers for almost 30 years, and, accordingly, various solution methods have been proposed. In this paper, we implement and evaluate several widely used methods for solving five standard hub location problems. To assess the scalability and solution qualities of these methods, three well-known datasets are used as case studies: Turkish Postal System, Australia Post, and Civil Aeronautics Board. Classical problems in small networks can be solved efficiently using CPLEX because of their low complexity. Genetic algorithms perform well for solving three types of single allocation problems, since the problem formulations can be neatly encoded with chromosomes of reasonable size. Lagrangian relaxation is the only technique that solves reliable multiple allocation problems in large networks. We believe that our work helps other researchers to get an overview on the best solution techniques for the problems investigated in our study and also stipulates further interest on cross-comparing solution techniques for more expressive problem formulations.
Prevalence and Perinatal Outcomes of Singleton Term Breech Delivery in Wolisso Hospital, Oromia Region, Southern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Debero Mere Temesgen , Beyene Handiso Tilahun , Mekiso Abera Beyamo , Selamu Jifar Markos , Aliye Ibrahim Shabeza , Bilato Degefe Tadele
Published: November 2017

Background.Breech deliveries have always been topical issues in obstetrics. Neonates undergoing term breech deliveries have long-term morbidity up to the school age irrespective of mode of delivery.Objective. To determine prevalence and perinatal outcomes of singleton term breech delivery.Methods. Hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted on 384 participants retrospectively. Descriptive and analytical statistics was used.Result. A total of 384 breech deliveries were included. Prevalence of singleton breech deliveries in the hospital was 3.4%. The perinatal outcome of breech deliveries was 322 (83.9%). Adverse perinatal outcome of singleton term breech delivery was significantly associated with women’s age of greater than or equal to 35 years (AOR = 2.62, 95% CI = 1.14–6.03), fully dilated cervix (AOR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.25–0.91), ruptured membrane (AOR = 5.11, 95% CI = 2.25–11.6), and fetal weight of <2500 g (AOR = 6.77, 95% CI = 3.22–14.25).Conclusion. Entrapment of head, birth asphyxia, and cord prolapse were the most common causes of perinatal mortality. Factors like fetal weight <2500 gm, mothers of age 35 years and above, those mothers not having a fully dilated cervix, and mothers with ruptured membrane were associated with increased perinatal mortality.
Markers and Biomarkers of Endothelium: When Something Is Rotten in the State
Authors: Goncharov Nikolay V. , Nadeev Alexander D. , Jenkins Richard O. , Avdonin Pavel V.
Published: November 2017

Endothelium is a community of endothelial cells (ECs), which line the blood and lymphatic vessels, thus forming an interface between the tissues and the blood or lympha. This strategic position of endothelium infers its indispensable functional role in controlling vasoregulation, haemostasis, and inflammation. The state of endothelium is simultaneously the cause and effect of many diseases, and this is coupled with modifications of endothelial phenotype represented by markers and with biochemical profile of blood represented by biomarkers. In this paper, we briefly review data on the functional role of endothelium, give definitions of endothelial markers and biomarkers, touch on the methodological approaches for revealing biomarkers, present an implicit role of endothelium in some toxicological mechanistic studies, and survey the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in modulation of endothelial status.
Mechanism-informed Repurposing of Minocycline Overcomes Resistance to Topoisomerase Inhibition for Peritoneal Carcinomatosis
Authors: Huang Huang-Chiao , Liu Joyce , Baglo Yan , Rizvi Imran , Anbil Sriram , Pigula Michael , Hasan Tayyaba
Published: November 2017

Mechanism-inspired drug repurposing that augments standard treatments offers a cost-effective and rapid route toward addressing the burgeoning problem of plateauing of effective therapeutics for drug-resistant micrometastases. We show that the antibiotic minocycline, by its ability to minimize DNA repair via reduced expression of tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase-1 (Tdp1), removes a key process attenuating the efficacy of irinotecan, a frequently used chemotherapeutic against metastatic disease. Moreover, minocycline and irinotecan cooperatively mitigate each other's undesired cytokine inductions of VEGF and IL8, respectively, thereby reinforcing the benefits of each modality. These mechanistic interactions result in synergistic enhancement of irinotecan-induced platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian cancer cell death, reduced micrometastases in the omenta and mesentery by >75%, and an extended overall survival by 50% in a late-stage peritoneal carcinomatosis mouse model. Economic incentives and easy translatability make the repurposing of minocycline as a reinforcer of the topoisomerase class of chemotherapeutics extremely valuable and merits further investigations. Mol Cancer Ther; 17(2); 508–20. ©2017 AACR.
Subjective Assessment of Sleep in Huntington Disease: Reliability of Sleep Questionnaires Compared to Polysomnography
Authors: Piano Carla , Della Marca Giacomo , Losurdo Anna , Imperatori Claudio , Solito Marcella , Calandra-Buonaura Giovanna , Provini Federica , Cortelli Pietro , Bentivoglio Anna Rita
Published: November 2017

Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical reliability of subjective sleep evaluation, based on sleep and psychometric questionnaires, by comparing the results with those obtained with laboratory-based video-polysomnography (V-PSG). Patients and Methods: Thirty consecutive Huntington disease (HD) patients were enrolled. Subjective evaluation of sleep included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the sleep questionnaire for HD (HDQ), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, the Bologna questionnaire for sleepiness (BQ), the Berlin questionnaire, and the RBD questionnaire; the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group scale was administered to patients with positive screening. The psychometric evaluation included the Zung Anxiety Scale, the short form of the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Maudsley Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory. All patients underwent V-PSG. Results: In sleepiness evaluation, the Epworth score was above the cutoff in 6 subjects, and the BQ detected a “high risk” of sleepiness in 7 cases. The results were concordant in 24 and discordant in 5 cases. In the evaluation of sleep quality, the PSQI score was above the cutoff in 18 subjects. According to the HDQ, 10 subjects were poor sleepers. The results were concordant with the PSQI in 20 subjects. Discussion: All comparisons between scale scores and PSG results showed poor or totally absent concordance between subjective and objective measures. Significance: The subjective evaluation of sleep in HD patients shows a poor correlation with PSG results.
Prokaryotic Expression and Anti-IBDV Activity of Chicken Interleukin-18 and Interferon-γ
Authors: Song Baifen , Li Xiaoting , Ma Jinzhu , Yu Liquan , Feng Zhenyue , Liu Zhenhua , Cui Yudong
Published: November 2017

Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), a cytokine produced by activated natural killer cells and T lymphocytes, is an important regulator of innate and adaptive immunity. Interleukin (IL)-18, also known as IFN-γ-inducing factor, is a cytokine that induces T and natural killer cells to produce IFN-γ. In this study, the chicken IL-18 (ChIL-18) and chicken IFN-γ (ChIFN-γ) genes were inserted into the pET28a prokaryotic expression vector, resulting in pET28a-IL-18 and pET28a-IFN-γ, respectively. These plasmids were transformed into Escherichia coli strain BL21, and the ChIL-18 and ChIFN-γ proteins were expressed and purified. To determine their antiviral activities, 200 ng/mL of ChIL-18 and/or ChIFN-γ were inoculated into chicken embryonic fibroblast cells. After 24 h, one 50% tissue culture infective dose (TCID50) of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) was inoculated into the chicken embryonic fibroblast cells. The results showed that the antiviral effect of ChIL-18 and ChIFN-γ in combination was better than that of ChIL-18 or ChIFN-γ alone. Next, 14-day-old chicken were injected with 200 µg of ChIL-18 and/or ChIFN-γ and then were challenged with 103 TCID50 of IBDV via intraperitoneal injection. The results showed that the proliferation of IBDV was inhibited by the injection of the recombinant proteins, especially the combination of ChIL-18 and ChIFN-γ, as evidenced by cytokine detection, quantitative PCR, and pathology analyses. These results indicate that ChIL-18 and ChIFN-γ could inhibit IBDV infection and the combination of ChIL-18 and ChIFN-γ has a better inhibitory effect than either cytokine alone.
7q Deletion/12q Duplication Is the Possible Cause of an Alobar Holoprosencephaly Case
Authors: Paspaliaris Vassilis , Vrachnis Nikolaos , Iliodromiti Zoe , Antonakopoulos Nikolaos , Papaioannou Giorgos , Vlachadis Nikolaos , Anastasiadou Foteini , Sotiriou Sotirios , Garas Antonios , Thomaidis Lorreta , Manolakos Emmanouil
Published: November 2017

Holoprosencephaly (HPE) spectrum disorder is the most common congenital malformation of the human brain with absence of or incomplete midline cleavage. Its cause is heterogenic, making genetic counseling a challenge. In this case report, a pregnancy affected by alobar HPE is described. Using aCGH, an 8.9-Mb deletion at 7q36.1q36.3 together with a 4.9-Mb duplication at 12q24.32q24.33 is assumed to be the possible reason for this alobar HPE case. It is discussed that disruption of key elements of the developing brain, taking environmental factors into account, contributes to the HPE spectrum. The use of aCGH for invasive prenatal testing is starting to become the standard technique, providing accurate information about the cause of congenital diseases for couples receiving genetic counseling.
Apolipoprotein E e4 Allele Is Associated with Subjective Cognitive Decline: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Ting , Liu Shuling , Zhang Yajing  , Guan Yalin  , Wang Xiaodan , Zhao Lei  , Shi Zhihong , Yue Wei , Zhang Ying  , Liu Shuai , Ji Yong
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose: Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is a condition associated with increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This study performs a meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of the Apolipoprotein E e4 (APOE e4) allele in SCD and the association of APOE e4 with SCD. Methods: The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Meta-analyses were conducted using STATA 12.0 software. When significant heterogeneity was present (I2 >50% and p < 0.05), we conducted stratified and meta-regression analyses to explore possible reasons for heterogeneity. Results: We selected a total of 28 studies that were conducted in Australia, the United States, northern Europe, middle Europe, southern Europe, and Asia. The sample size of the SCD group was 6,044. Thirteen studies included a healthy control group (total control cohort of 3,822), whereas the remaining 15 studies were single-arm studies of SCD groups. The APOE e4 allele was associated with SCD (OR 1.12 [1.00–1.25]; p = 0.04). The pooled estimate for APOE e4 carrier prevalence was 32% (95% CI 28–35). Due to the significant heterogeneity in prevalence estimates, we performed stratified and meta-regression analyses and found that age and northern European residency were significantly associated with heterogeneity. Conclusion: The results of this meta-analysis indicate a weak association between APOE e4 and SCD. Age and northern European residency are the critical factors that determine heterogeneity in the APOE e4-associated prevalence of SCD.
Development of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) in the Fellow Eye of Patients with AMD Treated by Treat-and-Extend Intravitreal Therapy with Aflibercept
Authors: Mimura Kensuke , Matsumoto Hidetaka , Morimoto Masahiro , Akiyama Hideo
Published: November 2017

Purpose: To evaluate the development of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in the fellow eye in patients with unilateral nAMD treated by a treat-and-extend (TAE) regimen with intravitreal aflibercept injections. Methods: We retrospectively studied 104 patients with treatment-naïve unilateral nAMD. We assessed best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and exudative changes in the treated eyes and development of nAMD in the fellow eye for 2 years. Results: The subjects included 46 patients with typical AMD (tAMD), 44 with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), and 14 with retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP). BCVA was significantly improved after the loading phase in all subtypes. Forty-six patients (44.2%) had no recurrence within 2 years after the loading phase, including 12 (26.1%) with tAMD, 23 (52.2%) with PCV, and 11 (78.6%) with RAP (p < 0.01). Eleven patients (10.6%) developed nAMD in the fellow eye within 2 years, including 4 (8.7%) with tAMD, 0 (0%) with PCV, and 7 (50.0%) with RAP (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Patients with RAP had significantly more frequent development of nAMD in the fellow eye compared to other subtypes, while they showed significantly less recurrence during the TAE regimen with intravitreal aflibercept injections. Development of nAMD in the fellow eye should be monitored in RAP when the injection interval is extended.
Lessons Learned from Implantation of Morcher 50D and 96S Artificial Iris Diaphragms
Authors: Lin Shawn R. , Miller Kevin M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose: To discuss problems associated with the implantation of two Morcher iris diaphragm models. Methods: We describe the history, intraoperative complications, and postoperative complications of 5 patients with specific Morcher iris implants. Results: We implanted Morcher 50D devices in 1 patient and Morcher 96S devices in 4 patients. Complications included postoperative rotation, device mis-sizing, difficult intraoperative rotation, zonular dehiscence, and intraoperative hemorrhage. Conclusion: Artificial iris implantation has a steep learning curve. With widespread availability on the horizon in the United States, the sharing of surgical experiences is key to achieving the best outcomes for patients.
Dystonic Seizures and Intense Hyperperfusion of the Basal Ganglia in a Patient with Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis
Authors: Matsumoto Hideyuki , Hashida Hideji , Takahashi Yukitoshi
Published: November 2017

This report describes a rare case presenting with dystonic seizures due to anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis. The patient was an 18-year-old woman with repeated right-dominant dystonic seizures even under sedation. Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) showed intense hyperperfusion of the caudate nuclei, putamen, globus pallidus, thalamus, and insula on the left side, suggesting encephalitis. Antibodies against NMDA receptors were detected in the sera and cerebrospinal fluids. Immune-mediated treatments were administered. Three months later, the dystonic seizures disappeared. We diagnosed her with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. SPECT suggested that the main region of encephalitis was the basal ganglia. Therefore, we propose that the patient’s dystonic seizures may originate from the insula and be generated by intense hyperactivity of the basal ganglia.
Digoxin and Hypermagnesuria
Authors: Zanoli Luca , Lentini Paolo , Fatuzzo Pasquale
Published: November 2017

In a recent issue of Nephron, Abu-Amer et al.[1] reported the presence of hypermagnesuria in patients following acute intravenous administration of digoxin and suggested that the Na+/K+-ATPase γ-subunit, which is the pharmacological target of digoxin, can play a role in this process. Hypermagnesuria induced by digoxin may have important clinical consequences, particularly in the presence of inherited and acquired conditions associated with hypermagnesuria and hypomagnesemia. Moreover, the co-administration of digoxin with other drugs that reduce gastrointestinal absorption (i.e., proton pump inhibitors) or increase urinary excretion (i.e., loop diuretics) may increase the likelihood of developing hypomagnesemia. In this article, we reviewed the main causes of hypermagnesuria and discussed potential drug interactions that can enhance the magnesuric effect of digoxin. We suggest that during the administration of digoxin, clinicians should consider the presence of other causes of hypomagnesemia and hypermagnesuria that could enhance the magnesuric effect of digoxin, monitor the urinary and serum levels of magnesium and prescribe an oral supplementation of magnesium.
Effects and Interactions of Prenatal Ethanol Exposure, a Post-Weaning High-Fat Diet and Gender on Adult Hypercholesterolemia Occurrence in Offspring Rats
Authors: Qi Yongjian , Luo Hanwen , Hu Shuwei , Wu Yimeng , Magdalou Jacques , Chen Liaobin , Wang Hui
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Prenatal ethanol exposure (PEE) could induce intrauterine programming of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis-associated neuroendocrine metabolism, resulting in intrauterine growth retardation and susceptibility to adult hypercholesterolemia in offspring. This study aimed to analyse the effects and interactions of PEE, a post-weaning high-fat diet (HFD) and gender on the occurrence of adult hypercholesterolemia in offspring rats. Methods: Wistar female rats were treated with ethanol (4 g/kg.d) at gestational days 11-20. The offspring were given a normal diet or HFD after weaning, and the blood cholesterol metabolism phenotype and expression of hepatic cholesterol metabolism related genes were detected in 24-week-old offspring. Furthermore, the interactions among PEE, HFD, and gender on hypercholesterolemia occurrence were analysed. Results: PEE increased the serum total cholesterol (TCH) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and decreased the serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) level in adult offspring rats; the changes in female offspring were greater than those in males. At the same time, the mRNA expression levels of hepatic cholesterol metabolic enzymes (apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1))—were increased, while the mRNA expression levels of the scavenger receptor B1 (SR-B1) and LDL receptor (LDLR) were decreased. Furthermore, a three-way ANOVA showed there were interactions among PEE, post-weaning HFD and gender. For PEE offspring, a post-weaning HFD aggravated the elevated hepatic ApoB and CYP7A1 expression and reduced SR-B1 and LDLR expression; the changes in hepatic SR-B1 and CYP7A1 expression were greater in female HFD rats than in males. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that a post-weaning HFD could aggravate offspring hypercholesterolemia caused by PEE and that this mechanism might be associated with hepatic cholesterol metabolic disorders that are aggravated by a post-weaning HFD; hepatic cholesterol metabolism was more sensitive to neuroendocrine metabolic alterations by PEE and a post-weaning HFD in the female offspring than in the male offspring.
Bufalin Inhibits Cellular Proliferation and Cancer Stem Cell-Like Phenotypes via Upregulation of MiR-203 in Glioma
Authors: Liu Tao , Wu Chanji , Weng Guohu , Zhao Zhongyan , He Xiangying , Fu Chuanyi , Sui Zhiyan , Huang Shi-Xiong
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: Prior studies have shown that bufalin inhibits cellular proliferation and induces apoptosis in various human cancers. MicroRNA-203 (miR-203) has been shown to function as an important regulator of tumor progression at various stages. In this study, we investigated the effect of miR-203 expression and bufalin treatment on glioma cell proliferation and stem cell-like phenotypes. Methods: We used cell viability assay, colony formation assay, cell apoptosis assay and neurosphere formation assay to dectect the treatment effect of bufalin on U251 and U87 cells. Cells were transfected with the miR-203 mimic without bufalin treatment or cells were transfected with anti-miR-203 under bufalin treatment, the above expreiments were repeated. RT-PCR was employed to quantify miR-203 expression. Western blot was performed to detect the stem cell-like (CSC) markers, OCT4 and SOX2. Luciferase activity assay was used to determine whether the SPARC is the target of miR-203. Results: Bufalin treatment inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, and CSC phenotypes and increased cell apoptosis and expression of miR-203. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-203 led to similar outcomes as bufalin treatment with respect to the cell viability, colony formation, cell apoptosis and the phenotypes of glioma cells. While anti-miR-203 attenuated the inhibitory effects of bufalin as promoting cell proliferation, colony formation and CSC phenotyes and inhibiting cell apoptosis. In addition, we identified SPARC as a novel target gene of miR-203. Conclusions: These findings suggest that miR-203 plays an important role in bufalin’s ability to inhibit the growth of glioma cells and the development of stem cell-like phenotypes.
Potential Targets and Clinical Value of MiR-224-5p in Cancers of the Digestive Tract
Authors: Zhang Lu , Huang Lan-shan , Chen Gang , Feng Zhen-bo
Published: November 2017

Background/Aims: MicroRNAs participate in various biological processes in malignant tumors. However, the mechanisms of miR-224-5p in digestive system cancers are not fully understood. A comprehensive investigation of the clinical value and potential targets of miR-224-5p in cancers of the digestive tract is necessary. Methods: Expression profiling data and related-prognostic data of miR-224-5p were acquired from Gene Expression Omnibus, The Cancer Genome Atlas, ArrayExpress, and published literature. The potential target mRNAs of miR-224-5p were predicted using bioinformatics methods and finally annotated using Gene Ontology (GO) annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. Results: MiR-224-5p is up-regulated in digestive system cancers (SMD=0.69, 95% CI: 0.43-0.96, P<0.0001) and exhibits a moderate diagnostic ability (AUC=0.84, 95% CI: 0.80-0.87). Our data also demonstrated that miR-224-5p is statistically significantly correlated with overall survival univariate analysis (HR=1.69, 95% CI: 1.15-2.49, P=0.007) and multivariate analysis (HR=2.39, 95% CI: 1.74-3.30, P<0.0001). In total, 388 potential miR-224-5p target mRNAs were predicted by bioinformatics methods. GO annotation analysis revealed that the top terms of miR-224-5p in biological process, cellular component and molecular function were system development, neuron part, and transcriptional activator activity, RNA polymerase II core promoter proximal region sequence-specific binding, respectively. Moreover, eight pathways were identified in KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Conclusions: MiR-224-5p is up-regulated and has the potential to become a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in digestive system cancers. MiR-224-5p might play vital roles in cancers of the digestive tract but the exact molecular mechanisms need further study and verification.
Questions on gender and technology in the construction of agroecology
Authors: Lima Márcia Maria Tait , Jesus Vanessa Brito de
Published: November 2017

O objetivo deste artigo é discutir o papel da mulher no desenvolvimento do pensamento agroecológico no Brasil, o qual se apresenta como uma proposta que alia ciência, tecnologia e movimento social, orientada por premissas éticas e epistemológicas, nas quais são centrais as características ambientais, a pluralidade cultural, o respeito aos diferentes povos, assim como a não exploração nas relações de trabalho e comercialização. Embora ele seja um pensamento progressista, ainda comporta reprodu- ção da desigualdade de gênero, o que tem aparecido em diversos debates dentro do próprio campesinato, nos ambientes de militância e acadêmicos brasileiros. A agroecologia e, de forma mais ampla, a agricultura familiar sempre tiveram a participação signifi cativa das mulheres. Porém, apenas há pouco mais de duas décadas o trabalho feminino na agricultura familiar e também na agroecologia tem sido desconsiderado proporcionalmente a sua real contribuição. Nesse sentido, discutiremos que não existe agroecologia sem feminismo, pois são mulheres que ocupam posições centrais e sustentam vários tipos de resistência ao modelo convencional de produção agrícola, com a organização de movimentos sociais agroecológicos e práticas associativas de produção. A relação aparentemente paradoxal entre as relevantes contribuições das mulheres e a negação das questões de gênero na agroecologia será discutida buscando estabelecer diálogos entre o pensamento agroecológico das mulheres e a perspectiva feminista
Weaving connections between feminism and sociotechnical alternatives
Authors: Vasconcellos Bruna Mendes de , Dias Rafael Brito , Fraga Lais Silveira
Published: November 2017

Neste artigo fazemos uma releitura, com lentes feministas, de duas infl uências históricas do pensamento latino-americano sobre a tecnologia social. Em um primeiro momento, olhamos para o movimento independentista da Índia, na primeira metade do século xx, que incorpora à sua causa uma política de disseminação da charkha, uma espécie de roca de fi ar. Difundida no período em que Gandhi liderou o movimento, a fi ação passou a ser símbolo da luta nacionalista, e é tida como exemplo emblemático de alternativa sociotécnica. Em um segundo momento, analisamos o “movimento de tecnologia apropriada”, como um conjunto de refl exões e iniciativas que se popularizam nos anos 1970 para a disseminação de tecnologias supostamente adequadas à realidade das regiões empobrecidas do sul. Ocupando-nos de preencher as lacunas analíticas de gênero, destacamos as contribuições de autoras que desvelaram o caráter androcêntrico de tais políticas, explicando como se produzem tecnologias inadequadas a partir da oclusão do trabalho das mulheres e das demandas comunitárias de cuidados no meio rural africano e asiático. Por fi m, tecemos conexões entre o gênero e a construção de alternativas sociotécnicas e argumentamos que é na invisibilidade do caráter feminizado do cuidar e na incorporação acrítica da lógica produtivista que a tecnologia social encarna o androcentrismo
Síndrome de Peutz-Jeghers e acalásia: relato de caso e revisão da literatura
Authors: Okida Luís Felipe de Almeida , Carvalho Ana Teresa Pugas , Pinho Paulo Roberto Alves de
Published: November 2017

A síndrome de Peutz-Jeghers (SPJ) é uma doença autossômica dominante rara, caracterizada pela presença de pólipos hamartomatosos gastrointestinais e máculas hipercrômicas mucocutâneas. O presente trabalho relata um caso de um paciente com máculas hipercrômicas na região labial, palmar e plantar, além de pólipos gastrointestinais hamartomatosos, sendo diagnosticado com SPJ, e que evoluiu com quadros de dor abdominal intensa, dois episódios de intussuscepção e aparecimento de acalásia. Além da associação inédita na literatura, até onde se sabe, de SPJ com acalásia, o seguinte trabalho traz uma revisão da literatura sobre a doença, bem como recomendação no rastreio de câncer em tais pacientes, dado que apresentam maior risco de desenvolver neoplasias malignas.
Campeões de bilheteria e o sucesso como antídoto ao terceiro
Authors: Barros Ana Taís Portanova
Published: November 2017

Este trabalho se propõe a refletir sobre as condições simbólicas (Durand, Bachelard) que, no cinema, podem participar da imagem do sucesso a qual, considerada no que exige de consenso e adesão coletiva, é definida a partir da premissa dos estudos do imaginário sobre as representações dos princípios lógicos de antítese, analogia e complexidade, ponderando-se que a relação com a diferença é fundamental para compreender a condição simbólica do sucesso. Com essa premissa, são examinados três dos dez filmes considerados os maiores sucessos (de bilheteria) de todos os tempos: …E o vento levou, Avatar e Titanic. Conclui-se que tanto em Avatar quanto em Titanic existe uma abordagem dualista da alteridade. Já em …E o vento levou, a abordagem é monista. Em quaisquer dos casos, é escamoteada a pluralidade, com a recusa da efetividade do Outro enquanto terceiro.
Pluralism and Democratic Participation: What Kind of Citizen are Citizens Invited to be?
Authors: Escobar Oliver
Published: November 2017

Classic pragmatism laid the foundations for a practice-based notion of citizenship that views democracy as a fragile accomplishment in need of constant self-actualisation. This article revisits this heritage to explore different notions of pluralism and democratic participation developed over the last century. Drawing on James and Dewey, the article interrogates how different understandings of democracy deal with pluralism and the meaning of democratic life. The focus is on three prominent models in contemporary democratic theory and practice, namely: representative, participatory and deliberative. The purpose is to review different ways of thinking and enacting citizen participation and explore key distinctions, overlaps and productive tensions. The conclusion argues that a vibrant democratic ecology requires combining the practices that underpin these models in order to develop deeper, and more sustainable, forms of citizenship and democratic life.
Shame in Youth Ministry: A Typology to Inform Praxis
Authors: Nash Sally
Published: November 2017

This article offers an overview of a typology of shame in relation to youth ministry. The typology was developed by drawing on practical theology and qualitative research methods and was completed for the author’s ordination training as an Anglican priest. The data presented in the article is taken from a separate analysis of responses from youth ministers and youth workers. The six domains of the typology are personal, relational, communal, structural, theological and historical. Implications of the typology for youth ministry praxis are discussed.
Explaining Party Support in the 2016 Russian State Duma Election
Authors: Hutcheson Derek S. , McAllister Ian
Published: November 2017

Because of the predicable outcomes of recent Russian elections, voters are often characterized as passive actors in the electoral process. However, as we show in this article, political and social factors still underpin the motivations for people’s voting behavior. The article analyzes voting behavior in the 2016 State Duma election, using a post-election, nationally representative survey to assess the differences between the four parliamentary parties’ support bases. It finds that voting decisions in the 2016 election were strongly related to voters’ attitudes to the national president, Vladimir Putin, as well as to their attitudes to corruption and the economic situation. Voters who were more positive to the president and viewed the economic crisis more benignly were more likely to vote for the ‘party of power’, United Russia. Moreover, the four parties’ electorates had distinctive social profiles that were consistent with long-term patterns established in previous State Duma elections.
Modifying Electoral Authoritarianism. What the 2016 Parliamentary Elections Tell us about the Nature and Resilience of the Putin Regime
Authors: White David
Published: November 2017

Through a focus on the 2016 Russian parliamentary election, this article seeks to assess the strength of the Putin regime and the nature of the system itself. In contrast to those who have heralded its imminent decline, it is argued that the regime continues to display great resilience, the election providing evidence of the regime’s adaptability and its ability to cope with challenges. The nature of the regime is also questioned. It has become commonplace for scholars to refer to Russia’s political system under the presidency of Vladimir Putin as “electoral authoritarian”. The article examines the function of elections in such systems, with a particular emphasis on the way in which elections provide the regime with legitimacy. The conduct and outcome of the elections not only points to the confidence and resilience of the Putin regime but might also suggest that a declining reliance on elections to sustain the regime may lead to a re-appraisal of the electoral authoritarian model as a compelling conceptualization of the Russian political system.
Observations on a fragilarioid diatom found in inter-dune lakes of the Badain Jaran Desert (Inner Mongolia, China), with a discussion on the newly erected genus Williamsella Graeff, Kociolek & Rushforth
Authors: RIOUAL PATRICK , FLOWER ROGER J. , CHU GUOQIANG , LU YANBIN , ZHANG ZHONGYAN , ZHU BINGQI , YANG XIAOPING
Published: November 2017

Populations of a fragilarioid diatom from inter-dune lakes of the Badain Jaran Desert (northern China), originally identified and reported under the name Fragilaria sp. cf. famelica, were investigated in detail using light and scanning electron microscopy. The analyses indicate that most of the morphological features of this taxon are identical to Williamsella angusta Graeff, Kociolek & S.R. Rushforth, the type species of the genus Williamsella recently described from Blue Lake warm spring (Utah, USA). The criteria used to separate Williamsella from Fragilaria (i.e. the presence/absence of spines, the colonial formation, the preference for saline vs freshwater habitat, and the coverings of the areolae) are not supported and the genus is refuted. Instead the new combination Fragilaria crenophila comb. nov. is proposed for the Blue Lake species. The taxon from the Badain Jaran desert lakes represents a varietal population that is characterized by shorter valve length and lower stria density than the nominal variety, and is given the name Fragilaria crenophila var. sinensis. A discussion of the taxonomy, ecology and geographical distribution of this taxon is presented and a detailed comparison with Fragilaria asiatica Hustedt, a very similar species described from northern Tibet (China) is made.
Biodiversity and notes on carabid beetles from Angola with description of new taxa (Coleoptera: Carabidae)
Authors: SERRANO ARTUR R. M. , CAPELA RÚBEN A. , SANTOS CARMEN VAN-DÚNEM NETO
Published: November 2017

An annotated list of species of carabids sampled in Angola during three entomological trips is presented. A total of 111 species/subspecies were identified and some ecological remarks as well as its known distribution in this country are provided. Perigona liboloensis sp. n., Lasiocera schuelei sp. n. and Galerita procera capelai ssp. n., are described. New records of some genera and species previously unknown from Angola are given. Further, two dichotomic keys are made available for the identification of Perigona (s. str.) species of Africa and Lasiocera species of southern Africa, respectively.
A new species of the Chaleponcus dabagaensis-group from Mount Rungwe, Tanzania—support for an extended concept of the Eastern Arc Mountains (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Odontopygidae)
Authors: ENGHOFF HENRIK
Published: November 2017

Chaleponcus altirungwensis sp. nov. is described from Mount Rungwe, Tanzania. The new species belongs to the Chaleponcus dabagaensis group which is otherwise restricted to the Udzungwa Mountains and joins a growing set of taxa indicating close biogeographical connections between Mount Rungwe and the Eastern Arc Mountains in a strict sense.
Review of Nilodosis Kieffer (Diptera: Chironomidae: Chironominae), with description of a new species from South China
Authors: TANG HONGQU , CRANSTON PETER S.
Published: November 2017

The male, female and pupa of Nilodosis austrosinensis Tang & Cranston, sp. n., reared from 2 reservoirs of south China, are described. The male can be separated from congeners by the presence of few squamal setae, a relatively long spur on the mid– and hind legs, a characteristic superior volsella and distinctive pattern of all legs. The female can be separated by features of genitalia, namely the absence of a ventrolateral lobe and the dorsomesal lobe with the apex usually curved. The pupa is separable by a bare tergite VIII and by characteristic spinulation of the sternites. The generic diagnosis is emended and some problems alluded to. This is the first formal record of Nilodosis from the Oriental region, indeed the first outside the Afrotropical region.