bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effort-Based Reinforcement Processing and Functional Connectivity Underlying Amotivation in Medicated Patients with Depression and Schizophrenia
Authors: Park Il Ho , Lee Boung Chul , Kim Jae-Jin , Kim Joong Il , Koo Min-Seung
Published: March 2017

Amotivation is a common phenotype of major depressive disorder and schizophrenia, which are clinically distinct disorders. Effective treatment targets and strategies can be discovered by examining the dopaminergic reward network function underlying amotivation between these disorders. We conducted an fMRI study in healthy human participants and medicated patients with depression and schizophrenia using an effort-based reinforcement task. We examined regional activations related to reward type (positive and negative reinforcement), effort level, and their composite value, as well as resting-state functional connectivities within the meso–striatal–prefrontal pathway. We found that integrated reward and effort values of low effort-positive reinforcement and high effort-negative reinforcement were behaviorally anticipated and represented in the putamen and medial orbitofrontal cortex activities. Patients with schizophrenia and depression did not show anticipation-related and work-related reaction time reductions, respectively. Greater amotivation severity correlated with smaller work-related putamen activity changes according to reward type in schizophrenia and effort level in depression. Patients with schizophrenia showed feedback-related putamen hyperactivity of low effort compared with healthy controls and depressed patients. The strength of medial orbitofrontal-striatal functional connectivity predicted work-related reaction time reduction of high effort negative reinforcement in healthy controls and amotivation severity in both patients with schizophrenia and those with depression. Patients with depression showed deficient medial orbitofrontal-striatal functional connectivity compared with healthy controls and patients with schizophrenia. These results indicate that amotivation in depression and schizophrenia involves different pathophysiology in the prefrontal-striatal circuitry.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAmotivation is present in both depression and schizophrenia. However, treatment involves the use of drugs that enhance serotonin activity in depression and inhibit serotonin and dopamine activity in schizophrenia. Understanding how motivation processed in the mesocorticolimbic and nigostriatal pathways is affected in depression and schizophrenia is important in discovering treatment targets and strategies for amotivation. To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare patients with depression and schizophrenia in a common functional construct. By using an effort-based reinforcement task and examining resting-state functional connectivity in the dopaminergic network, we propose that difference in striato–orbitofrontal dysfunction in effort-based reinforcement between depression and schizophrenia may be related to differences in the extent of functional dysconnectivity in the dopaminergic pathway.
HDAC7 Ubiquitination by the E3 Ligase CBX4 Is Involved in Contextual Fear Conditioning Memory Formation
Authors: Jing Xu , Sui Wen-Hai , Wang Shuai , Xu Xu-Feng , Yuan Rong-rong , Chen Xiao-Rong , Ma Hui-Xian , Zhu Ying-Xiao , Sun Jin-Kai , Yi Fan , Chen Zhe-Yu , Wang Yue
Published: March 2017

Histone acetylation, an epigenetic modification, plays an important role in long-term memory formation. Recently, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors were demonstrated to promote memory formation, which raises the intriguing possibility that they may be used to rescue memory deficits. However, additional research is necessary to clarify the roles of individual HDACs in memory. In this study, we demonstrated that HDAC7, within the dorsal hippocampus of C57BL6J mice, had a late and persistent decrease after contextual fear conditioning (CFC) training (4–24 h), which was involved in long-term CFC memory formation. We also showed that HDAC7 decreased via ubiquitin-dependent degradation. CBX4 was one of the HDAC7 E3 ligases involved in this process. Nur77, as one of the target genes of HDAC7, increased 6–24 h after CFC training and, accordingly, modulated the formation of CFC memory. Finally, HDAC7 was involved in the formation of other hippocampal-dependent memories, including the Morris water maze and object location test. The current findings facilitate an understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of HDAC7 in the regulation of hippocampal-dependent memory.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe current findings demonstrated the effects of histone deacetylase 7 (HDAC7) on hippocampal-dependent memories. Moreover, we determined the mechanism of decreased HDAC7 in contextual fear conditioning (CFC) through ubiquitin-dependent protein degradation. We also verified that CBX4 was one of the HDAC7 E3 ligases. Finally, we demonstrated that Nur77, as one of the important targets for HDAC7, was involved in CFC memory formation. All of these proteins, including HDAC7, CBX4, and Nur77, could be potential therapeutic targets for preventing memory deficits in aging and neurological diseases.
Molecular architecture of the N‐type ATPase rotor ring from Burkholderia pseudomallei
Authors: Schulz Sarah , Wilkes Martin , Mills Deryck J , Kühlbrandt Werner , Meier Thomas
Published: March 2017

The genome of the highly infectious bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei harbors an atp operon that encodes an N‐type rotary ATPase, in addition to an operon for a regular F‐type rotary ATPase. The molecular architecture of N‐type ATPases is unknown and their biochemical properties and cellular functions are largely unexplored. We studied the B. pseudomallei N1No‐type ATPase and investigated the structure and ion specificity of its membrane‐embedded c‐ring rotor by single‐particle electron cryo‐microscopy. Of several amphiphilic compounds tested for solubilizing the complex, the choice of the low‐density, low‐CMC detergent LDAO was optimal in terms of map quality and resolution. The cryoEM map of the c‐ring at 6.1 Å resolution reveals a heptadecameric oligomer with a molecular mass of ~141 kDa. Biochemical measurements indicate that the c17 ring is H+ specific, demonstrating that the ATPase is proton‐coupled. The c17 ring stoichiometry results in a very high ion‐to‐ATP ratio of 5.7. We propose that this N‐ATPase is a highly efficient proton pump that helps these melioidosis‐causing bacteria to survive in the hostile, acidic environment of phagosomes.
Molecular identification and functional analysis of Ctrp9 in Epinephelus coioides
Authors: Yang Guokun , Qin Chaobin , Wang Bin , Jia Jirong , Yuan Xi , Sun Caiyun , Li Wensheng
Published: March 2017

CTRP9 is a member of the C1q/TNF-related protein (CTRP) superfamily and has been studied in mammals, whereas the comparative studies of CTRP9 in non-mammalian species are still absent. In this study, ctrp9 was isolated and characterized from the orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides). The full-length cDNA of ctrp9 was 1378 bp in size with an ORF (open reading frame) of 1020 bp that encodes a 339 amino acid pre–pro hormone. The mRNA expression of ctrp9 showed a rather high level in the kidney and brain, but a low level in other tissues. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of ctrp9 decreased significantly in the liver after fasting for 7 days and restored to the normal levels after refeeding. In contrast, the ctrp9 mRNA level increased in the hypothalamus after fasting. The recombinant gCtrp9 (globular Ctrp9) was prepared using the Pichia pastoris expression system and was verified by Western blot as well as mass spectrometry assays. In the primary hepatocytes culture, the recombinant gCtrp9 could inhibit the glucose production after 12-h treatment. After i.p. (intraperitoneal) injection with recombinant gCtrp9, in hypothalamus, mRNA expression levels of npy and orexin (orexigenic factors) decreased, whereas the expression levels of crh and pomc (anorexigenic factors) increased. Moreover, i.p. injection with the recombinant gCtrp9 could reduce the serum concentrations of glucose, TG and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol but increase the content of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Our studies for the first time unveil the structure of Ctrp9 and its potential role as a regulatory factor of metabolism and food intake in teleost.
Dynamics of progesterone and estrogen receptor alpha in the ventromedial hypothalamus
Authors: Sá Susana I , Fonseca Bruno M
Published: March 2017

Cyclic fluctuations of estradiol and progesterone in females influence neuronal activity in the ventrolateral division of the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMNvl), through the activation of progesterone receptors (PRs) and estrogen receptors (ERs). The expression of ER and PR in the VMNvl is influenced by their cognate ligands and is a central upstream trigger in the pathway of VMNvl-dependent modulation of endocrine responses. By studying the role played by estradiol and progesterone in PR and ERa expression in the VMNvl along the estrous cycle and how the two receptors interact in the same neuron, we aim to evaluate the synergistic action of both ovarian hormones in the regulation of VMNvl activity. In animals at all phases of the estrous cycle, the number of VMN neurons expressing PR or ERa was estimated by stereological methods, and the percentage, and rostro-caudal distribution, of neurons simultaneously expressing both receptors was determined. The highest number of PR-immunoreactive neurons was seen at proestrus, and of ERa-immunoreactive neurons was seen at proestrus and metestrus. The ERa/PR co-localization is increased at caudal levels. Approximately half the neurons expressing PR co-express ERa, a proportion that stays constant along the estrous cycle. The percentage of ERa neurons co-expressing PR changes from 60% at proestrus to 40% at metestrus. Fluctuations in circulating ovarian hormone levels promote coordinated changes in PR and ERa expression and co-localization. This may be an important mechanism in the regulation of input relayed by the VMNvl, allowing a precise modulation of endocrine responses.
A comparison of transcriptomic profiles in endometrium during window of implantation between women with unexplained recurrent implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage
Authors: Huang Jin , Qin Hao , Yang Yihua , Chen Xiaoyan , Zhang Jiamiao , Laird Susan , Wang Chi Chiu , Chan Ting Fung , Li Tin Chiu
Published: March 2017

The endometrium becomes receptive to the embryo only in the mid-luteal phase, but not in the other stages of the menstrual cycle. Endometrial factors play an important role in implantation. Women with recurrent miscarriage and recurrent implantation failure have both been reported to have altered expression of receptivity markers during the window of implantation. We aimed to compare the gene expression profiles of the endometrium in the window of implantation among women with unexplained recurrent implantation failures (RIF) and unexplained recurrent miscarriages (RM) by RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq). In total 20 patients (9 RIF and 11 RM) were recruited. In addition 4 fertile subjects were included as reference. Endometrium samples were precisely timed on the 7th day after luteal hormone surge (LH + 7). All the 24 endometrium samples were extracted for total RNA. The transcriptome was determined by RNA-Seq in the first 14 RNA samples (5 RIF, 6 RM and 3 fertile). Differentially expressed genes between RM and RIF were validated by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) in all 24 RNA samples (9 RIF, 11 RM and 4 fertile). Transcriptomic profiles of RM and RIF, but not control samples, were separated from each other by principle component analysis (PCA) and support vector machine (SVM). Complementary and coagulation cascades pathway was significantly up-regulated in RIF while down-regulated in RM. Differentially expressed genes C3, C4, C4BP, DAF, DF and SERPING1 in complement and coagulation cascade pathway between RM and RIF were further validated by qPCR. This study compared endometrial transcriptome among patients with RIF and RM in the window of implantation; it identified differential molecular pathways in endometrium between RIF and RM, which potentially affect the implantation process.
Obesity, energy balance and spermatogenesis
Authors: Oliveira Pedro F , Sousa Mário , Silva Branca M , Monteiro Mariana P , Alves Marco G
Published: March 2017

Obesity has grown to pandemic proportions. It affects an increasing number of children, adolescents and young adults exposed to the silent comorbidities of this disorder for a longer period. Infertility has arisen as one important comorbidity associated with the energy dysfunction promoted by obesity. Spermatogenesis is a highly regulated process that is determined by specific energetic requirements. The reproductive potential of males relies on hormonal-dependent and -independent stimuli that control sperm quality. There are conflicting data concerning the impact of male overweight and obesity on sperm quality, as well as on the possible paternal-induced epigenetic trait inheritance of obesity. In addition, it remains a matter of debate whether massive weight loss induced by lifestyle interventions, drugs or bariatric surgery may or may not benefit obese men seeking fatherhood. Herein, we propose to discuss how energy balance may modulate hormonal signalling and sperm quality in overweight and obese men. We also discuss some molecular mechanisms that mediate obesity-related dysfunction in male reproductive system and how paternal obesity may lead to trait inheritance. Finally, we will discuss how lifestyle modifications and sustained weight loss, particularly the loss achieved by bariatric surgery, may revert some of the deleterious effects of obesity in men and their offspring.
Evaluation of equine oocyte developmental competence using polarized light microscopy
Authors: Bertero A , Ritrovato F , Evangelista F , Stabile V , Fortina R , Ricci A , Revelli A , Vincenti L , Nervo T
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study was to observe in vitro-matured equine oocytes with an objective computerized technique that involves the use of a polarized light microscope (PLM) in addition to the subjective morphological evaluation obtained using a classic light microscope (LM). Equine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs, n = 922) were subjected to different in vitro maturation times (24, 36 or 45 h), however, only 36-h matured oocytes were analyzed using CLM. The 36-h matured oocytes that reached maturity were parthenogenetically activated to evaluate the quality and meiotic competence. Average maturation percentages per session in groups 1, 2 and 3 (24-, 36- and 45-h matured oocytes respectively) were 29.31 ± 13.85, 47.01 ± 9.90 and 36.62 ± 5.28%, whereas the average percentages of immature oocytes per session were 28.78 ± 20.17, 7.83 ± 5.51 and 22.36 ± 8.39% respectively. The zona pellucida (ZP) birefringent properties were estimated and correlated with activation outcome. ZP thickness and retardance of the inner layer of the zona pellucida (IL-ZP) were significantly increased in immature oocytes compared with mature oocytes (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01 respectively). The comparison between parthenogenetically activated and non-activated oocytes showed a significant increase in the area and thickness of the IL-ZP in parthenogenetically activated oocytes (P < 0.01). These results show that the 36-h in vitro maturation (IVM) protocol allowed equine oocytes to reach maturity, and PLM observation of ZP can be used to distinguish mature and immature oocytes as well as activated and non-activated oocytes.
Extrinsic Repair of Injured Dendrites as a Paradigm for Regeneration by Fusion inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Oren-Suissa Meital , Gattegno Tamar , Kravtsov Veronika , Podbilewicz Benjamin
Published: March 2017

Neurons in the CNS have limited regenerative ability. Genetic pathways have been identified for axonal regeneration, but few studies exist on dendrites...

Injury triggers regeneration of axons and dendrites. Research has identified factors required for axonal regeneration outside the CNS, but little is known about regeneration triggered by dendrotomy. Here, we study neuronal plasticity triggered by dendrotomy and determine the fate of complex PVD arbors following laser surgery of dendrites. We find that severed primary dendrites grow toward each other and reconnect via branch fusion. Simultaneously, terminal branches lose self-avoidance and grow toward each other, meeting and fusing at the tips via an AFF-1-mediated process. Ectopic branch growth is identified as a step in the regeneration process required for bypassing the lesion site. Failure of reconnection to the severed dendrites results in degeneration of the distal end of the neuron. We discover pruning of excess branches via EFF-1 that acts to recover the original wild-type arborization pattern in a late stage of the process. In contrast, AFF-1 activity during dendritic auto-fusion is derived from the lateral seam cells and not autonomously from the PVD neuron. We propose a model in which AFF-1-vesicles derived from the epidermal seam cells fuse neuronal dendrites. Thus, EFF-1 and AFF-1 fusion proteins emerge as new players in neuronal arborization and maintenance of arbor connectivity following injury in Caenorhabditis elegans. Our results demonstrate that there is a genetically determined multi-step pathway to repair broken dendrites in which EFF-1 and AFF-1 act on different steps of the pathway. EFF-1 is essential for dendritic pruning after injury and extrinsic AFF-1 mediates dendrite fusion to bypass injuries.
Marketing Mix Implementation in Small Medium Enterprises: A Study of Galeristorey Online Business
Authors: Sari Rora Puspita
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the implementation of marketing mix in online business company, whether the online business adopt solely the traditional marketing mix model or the internet factors is also included, since the business platform itself in on social media. Descriptive research and content analysis using interview and observation were used to analyse the marketing mix implementation in Galeristorey online business. Evidence suggested that Galeristorey implemented few elements of the marketing mix both the traditional marketing mix and the online marketing mix. The cause of the limited use of marketing mix elements because of the barriers faced by Galeristorey as an SME. Further researcher may widen the research sample and creates empirical study on the marketing mix implementation of online business that used social media as its main business platform.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v16i1.3950
The Impact of Macroeconomic Variables on Sectoral Indices in Indonesia
Authors: Sutrisno Bambang
Published: March 2017

This study aims to examine the effect of macroeconomic variables on sectoral indices in the Indonesian Stock Exchange. The difference in sensitiveness among sectors is an interesting issue to investigate this relationship in an emerging market, such as Indonesia. This study employs ordinary least square (OLS) as an estimation method with monthly time-series data from January 2005 to December 2014. The results document that the interest rate, inflation rate, and exchange rate simultaneously have a significant effect on sectoral indices in Indonesia. The interest rate partially shows a significant negative influence on all sectors except basic industry and chemical, finance, infrastructure, utilities, and transportation, and miscellaneous industry sectors. The inflation rate partially has no significant effect on all sectors. The exchange rate partially has a significant negative impact on all industries.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v16i1.4323
Islamic Bank Financing and It’s Impact on Small Medium Enterprise’s Performance
Authors: Faisol Faisol
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of Islamic bank’s financing toward the business performance. Besides that, this paper is going to analyze how far the influence of Islamic bank financing toward Small Medium Enterprises (SME’s) welfare. This research is using partial least square analysis. The population of this research is all of the small medium enterprises especially farmers and industries in the District of Kediri who got Islamic bank financing for one year. The results showed that the Islamic bank financing has significant influence with a positive direction on the SMEs’s performances. This means that when the Islamic bank financing improved, will improve the SMEs’s performance. Further Islamic bank financing has a significant effect with positive direction towards the SMEs’s Welfare.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v16i1.4404
The Effect of Financial Reporting Quality on Financing and Investment
Authors: Angela Windy , Aryancana Rilya
Published: March 2017

This paper analysis the effect of reporting quality on financing and investment. It is important for us to understand the relation among them in order to prepare Indonesian companies for ASEAN Economic Community in 2015. The study examines the effect of financial reporting quality on financing and investment of 15 Indonesian companies with large market capitalization based on the Standard and Poor’s Rating Services in its first survey of the major corporate credit trends in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Those companies may still be under-investing in relation to its regional peers. The results suggest that (1) financial reporting quality has negative effect on financing. (2) financial reporting quality has positive effect on investment among companies with higher likelihood of over-investing and negative effect on investment among those with higher likelihood of under-investing.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v16i1.4600
Determinants of Financial Performance in The Indonesian Islamic Insurance Industry
Authors: Hidayat Iman Pirman , Firmansyah Irman
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study is to determine the role of the board of directors as an operating executive, as the company's supervisory board of commissioners, the proportion of managerial ownership and institutional ownership as well as leverage on the financial performance of Islamic insurance industry. The method used is multiple regression analysis and Moderated Regression Analysis. Data of company successfully researched as many as 15 Islamic insurance companies in Indonesia with a study period of 2011 to 2015. The results showed that the board does not affect the financial performance of Takaful. Commissioners, managerial ownership, institutional ownership and leverage positive effect on the financial performance of Islamic insurance industry in Indonesia. The size of the company weakens the relationship between the number of directors and leverage to financial performance, and did not moderate the relationship between the number of commissioners, managerial ownership and institutional ownership of the financial performance of Islamic insurance industry..DOI: 10.15408/etk.v16i1.4648
Determinants Analysis of Turnaround: Empirical Study on Manufacturing Company Registered in Indonesia Stock Exchange
Authors: Suratno Suratno , Fitriawati Roza , Djadang Syahril
Published: March 2017

This study examines the corporate turnaround which occurred in the company experiencing financial distress listing on the stock exchanges of Indonesia from 2010 to 2015. The purpose of this study is to prove the influence of company size, free assets, expenses retrenchment to corporarte turnaround. Company size, free assets, and expenses retrenchment moderated by CEO turnover. While Company Size, free assets and expenses retrenchment moderated by independent audit committee. The sample used in this study is 21 companies after going through the sampling process purposive sampling. The research method in this research is using logistic regression and moderated regreression analisys (MRA). The result shows the size of the company and free assets significant positive effect on the turnaround. Expenses retrenchment does not affect the turnaround process. CEO Turnover does not have a significant influence on the process of turnaround. Independent Audit Committee only affect or reinforce the results for the size of the company and free asset in conducting corporate turnaround, while at the expense retrenchment does not have a significant influence.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v16i1.4796
Operating Cash Flow, Earning Response Coefficient, and Fixed Asset Revaluation: Study on Manufacturing Company
Authors: Andison Andison , Nasser Etty M
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study to determine the effect of operating cash flow to the abnormal return and the effect of operating cash flow to the abnormal return of companies that conduct the revaluation is higher than that of non revaluation which adopted SFAS No. 16 (2012). The analysis used in this study are multiple regression, for the period 2012-2015. The results showed that operating cash flow has no effect on non-sampled companies revaluation, while the sample of firms that perform revaluation proves that operating cash flow has a positive and significant impact on the abnormal return. Moreover, the effect of revaluation policy can strengthen the influence between operating cash flow to the firm abnormal return than non revaluation.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v16i1.4820
Performance of Depositor Fund: A Lesson from Indonesian Islamic Banking System
Authors: Olimov Sayakhmad , Hamid Abdul , Mufraini Muhammad Arief
Published: March 2017

The objective of study is to analyze the performance of Depositor Fund in the operation of Islamic bank as an alternative banking sector in financial market based on the profit and loss mode of financing in the case of Indonesia. The research methodology is quantitative analysis based on the Multiple Regression. In the study secondary data is used and were collected from Annual Report of Islamic Banks. The sample of study is the bank, which is selected from 36 samples of Islamic Commercial Banks relates to non-probability purposive sampling method as a statistical research techniques. The result of study showed that the performance of Depositor Fund in the operation of Islamic banks has negative proficiency and otherwise the Islamic banks have weaknesses capability to improve the high ratio of increasing productivity Depositor Fund based on the financial ratio factors, which are analyzed.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v16i1.4871
The Incidence and Health Care Resource Burden of the Myelodysplastic Syndromes in Patients in Whom First-Line Hypomethylating Agents Fail
Authors: Cogle Christopher R. , Kurtin Sandra E. , Bentley Tanya G. K. , Broder Michael S. , Chang Eunice , Megaffin Scott , Fruchtman Steven , Petrone Michael E. , Mukherjee Sudipto
Published: March 2017

Background

Although hypomethylating agents (HMAs) are effective and approved therapies for patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), many patients do not benefit from treatment, and nearly all ultimately stop responding to HMAs. The incidence and cost burden of HMA failure are unknown yet needed to appreciate the magnitude and significance of such failure.

Methods

We analyzed a de-identified dataset of over 5 million individuals with private health insurance in the U.S. to estimate MDS incidence, prevalence, and treatments. Based on MDS provider interviews, a conceptual model of MDS patient management was constructed to create a new, claims-relevant and drug development-relevant definition of HMA treatment failure. This algorithm was used to define resource encumbrance of MDS patients in whom HMA treatment failed.

Results

We estimated an MDS incidence rate of ~70 cases per 100,000 enrollees per year and a prevalence of 155 cases per 100,000 enrollees. The proportion of MDS patients receiving HMA treatment was low (~3%), and treatment was typically initiated within 1 year of the first MDS claim. Notably, HMA-treated individuals were older and had more comorbidities than the overall MDS cohort. Total health care costs of managing MDS patients after HMA failure were high (~$77,000 during the first 6 months) and were driven primarily by non-pharmacy costs.

Conclusion

This study quantifies for the first time the burden of significant unmet need in caring for MDS patients following HMA treatment failure.
Endoscopic study of upper gastrointestinal mucosal lesion in chronic renal failure
Authors: Gupta Manoj , Shende Atul
Published: March 2017

Background: Chronic renal failure is a syndrome complex results from progressive and irreversible destruction of nephrons regardless of cause. This diagnosis implies that GFR is known to have been reduced for atleast 3 to 6 months. To study the clinical manifestations and assess the type and prevalence of upper gastrointestinal lesions and to correlate the clinical and biochemical parameters with upper GI mucosal lesion in chronic renal failure patients.Methods: Fifty CRF patients from nephrology and Medicine OPD, admitted in the department of Medicine, M.Y. Hospital, Indore, during January 2002 to April 2003 were studied. A detailed History, clinical examination, Urine Examination, renal Function test, U.S.G. was done and then upper GI Endoscopy was performed.Results: Thirty-six males and fourteen females (n=50) were studied. Most common age group was 41-50 years; commonest GI symptom was Anorexia (100%) and Nausea was present in (94%) of patients and GI bleed was seen in (8%). The common upper GI lesion were gastritis (28%), Oesophagitis (16%) and Duodenitis (12%). No patients had Gastric or Duodenal Ulcers. Majority of patients had creatinine clearance between 5-10 ml /min and most of the patients had duration of disease between 11-20 months.Conclusions: Gastrointestinal symptoms are very frequent in CRF patients. There is a high incidence of inflammatory charges of gastrointestinal mucosa in patients of CRF and chronic uremic patients are not at high risk of developing ulcer disease. There is no correlation of these gastrointestinal symptoms and inflammatory changes with age, sex, severity and duration of disease.
Comparative study of duraplasty and non duraplasty in Chiari 1 malformation with syringomyleia our institute experience
Authors: Naik B. D. Bharath Singh Naik Singh , Prasad Kadali Satyavara , Sandeep B. , Satyanarayana S.
Published: March 2017

Background: The prevalence of chiari malformation, defined as tonsillar herniations of 3 to 5 mm or greater, is estimated to be in the range of one per 1000 to one per 5000 individuals. The objective was to study the clinical presentation and outcome of ACM syrinx after foramen magnum decompression, c1 posterior arch removal duraplasty and without duraplasty.Methods: The study included 75 cases admitted with ACM with syrinx in neurosurgery ward in King George hospital, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India, during a period of five years.Results: Clinical improvement correlated strongly with enlargement of the subarachnoid cisterns and also correlated with reduction in size of the syrinx cavities. Postoperatively all the patients had decreased neck pain and two third of the patients had improvement in nystagmus, headache and dissociative anaesthesia in few cases.Conclusions: In the available literature, the treatment options offered for ACM syrinx are foramen magnum decompression and c1posterior arch removal, release of compression bands, which were followed in our institute also. We have compared pre-and post of MRI. Clinical improvement has been observed in 2 thirds of patient after a period of 2 year period follow up.
Impact of diabetes mellitus on clinical presentation and treatment response of smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients
Authors: K. P. Abdul Hashim , Ayoob Muhammed Anas
Published: March 2017

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a known risk factor for tuberculosis (TB). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of DM on clinical presentation and treatment response of sputum positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients.Methods: The present retrospective study was carried out in department of Pulmonary Medicine, Sree Gokulam Medical College and Research Foundation, Trivandrum, between January 2014 to December 2016.Results: Out of 205 subjects enrolled for this study, 73 were diagnosed with DM and 132 patients had no history of DM and were having HbA1c less than 6.5%. Mean HbA1c in DM group at presentation was 10.5 and in patients without DM group was 5.6. Low BMI was more in DM patients. Clinical characteristics at presentation were similar in both the groups. Patients with DM presented after long duration of symptoms (>8 weeks duration) and also with more atypical symptoms. On radiological examination, lower zone involvement and cavity lesions were more in patients with DM which was statistically significant. Clinical picture at the end of 6 months showed improvement in both the groups but radiological improvement was more in patients without DM compared to the other group.Conclusions: Uncontrolled DM is associated with high prevalence of Tuberculosis. Atypical symptoms and atypical radiological findings are more common in DM patients which lead to delayed presentation. Strategies are needed to ensure that optimal care is provided to patients with both diseases.
A comparative study between single incision multiport laparoscopic appendicectomy and conventional laparoscopic appendicectomy in tertiary care hospital, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: K. Dhinesh Babu , S. Sujith Kumar
Published: March 2017

Background: To compare the outcome of single incision multiport laparoscopic appendectomy versus conventional laparoscopic appendicectomy in terms of patient recovery time, post-operative pain in Karpaga Vinayaga Medical College and Hospital, Kanchipuram District, Tamil Nadu, India.Methods: A randomized control study was done by alternation with sample size of 50 which divided into two groups (study group 25 and control group 25) and study period is from August 2012 to September 2014.Results: Patient in single incision laparoscopy group show less post-operative pain in the first 6 and 12 hours compared to the conventional laparoscopy group, but no difference was noticed between the two groups after 24 hours. No significant difference in operating times was noted between the procedures.Conclusions: One patient in 25 who underwent single incision laparoscopy had wound infection, but no wound complications were noted in the conventional appendicectomy group.  Patients underwent Single incision laparoscopy are happier with scar when compared with conventional laparoscopy group. No difference noted in the duration of post-operative hospital stay.
Role of contact allergens in chronicity and relapses of nummular eczema
Authors: Rattan Renu , Tegta Gita R. , Shanker Vinay , Verma Ghanshyam K. , Sharma Anuj , Chauhan Meena , Sharma Abhishek
Published: March 2017

Background: Endogenous eczemas are often complicated by exogenous factors like environment and contact allergens. Nummular eczema, a variant of endogenous eczema is no exception to this. Our study aimed at investigating the incidence of allergic contact dermatitis and finding offending agent responsible for chronicity or relapsing course of nummular eczema in patients from a hilly region with cold and dry environmental conditions.

Methods: Forty patients of nummular eczema with a mean age of 39.1±19 years were patch tested with the Indian Standard Patch Test Series. Positive reactions were graded as per recommendations of International contact dermatitis research group.

Results: Twenty one out of forty patch tested patients showed positive reactions. The most common allergens were found to be: fragrance mix in seven (17.5%) patients, nickel in five (12.5%) patients, PPD in three (7.5%) patients and gentamicin in two (5%) patients. Sensitivity to thiuram mix, black rubber mix, P. tert. butylphenol formaldehyde, neomycin, benzocaine and chinoform was observed in one patient each (2.5% each).

Conclusions: Patients of nummular eczema of a hilly region are at a significant risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis owing to xerosis due to dry environmental conditions. This results in chronic nature of their disease. Patch testing should be considered in such patients and avoidance of offending allergens can improve their quality of life.
Mitochondrial DNA in pediatric leukemia patients
Authors: Kodroń Agata , Ghanim Magda , Krawczyk Katarzyna K. , Stelmaszczyk-Emmel Anna , Tońska Katarzyna , Demkow Urszula , Bartnik Ewa
Published: March 2017

Numerous studies of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in cancer have shown differences between mtDNA sequences in tumor and normal tissue and at various stages of cancer treatment in the same patient. However, there is little data on acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common type of leukemia in children. In this study we compared mitochondrial sequence variation in the D-loop region and in 5 genes of mtDNA in bone marrow samples of 6 pediatric patients with ALL at various stages of therapy. We found several common polymorphisms and one variant at position 3688 whose level varied during leukemia treatment. Our results suggest that mitochondrial DNA mutations, whose levels change during patient treatment, could be potential biomarkers for monitoring treatment efficacy and disease progression.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of different watershed management scenarios developed by simulation–optimization model
Authors: Noor Hamzeh , Fazli Somayeh , Rostami Mohammad , Kalat Ali Bagherian
Published: March 2017

The effort to control sediment yield at watershed scale is an ongoing challenge that needs to take into account trade-offs between two conflicting objective functions, i.e. economic and hydrologic criteria. Therefore, researchers have coupled hydrologic and multi-objective optimization models to find Pareto-optimal solutions. However, very limited studies have been conducted to analyse the cost-effectiveness (C/E) of scenarios obtained in the Pareto-front optimal. This could provide new information leading to effective watershed management. Therefore, in the present study, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was used to simulate sediment yield under different combinations of best management practices (BMPs) and was coupled with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II). The model attends to providing the Pareto-optimal solutions by minimizing the costs of BMPs and maximizing sediment reduction. The results of the application of the cost-effective optimization model in Mehran watershed, Iran, showed that the solutions in the Pareto-optimal front reduce sediment yield between 2% and 40.5% from baseline at costs of between $6,500 and $72,100, respectively. Finally, comparison of four sediment reduction solutions (i.e. 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%) showed that the total cost and C/E ratio of solutions increased as the sediment reduction criteria increased.
Legitimação Não Tradicional da Ação Penal – A Tutela de Bens Jurídicos por Outras Instituições Públicas
Authors: Silva Franklyn Roger Alves
Published: March 2017

O presente artigo examina a questão atinente ao exercício da legitimidade da ação penal de forma supletiva por outras instituições públicas quando houver a violação de direitos transindividuais penais e a inércia do Ministério Público. Nas infrações com sujeito passivo indeterminado, falta previsão legal para a incidência da ação penal privada subsidiária. Nesta perspectiva, investigam-se outros dispositivos legais que permitam identificar uma alternativa à iniciativa acusatória. Ao mesmo tempo, verifica-se a aptidão da Defensoria Pública para o exercício desta legitimação supletiva.
Verità e giustificazione nel processo penale
Authors: Caprioli Francesco
Published: March 2017

Depois de esclarecer que a única verdade que o juiz criminal deve declarar é a “triste verdade” da culpabilidade do acusado, o Autor deste artigo questiona a visão disseminada de que essa verdade seria uma verdade menor, formal e convencional, não comparável com a verdade científica ou histórica. Mesmo no processo penal se persegue a Verdade com V maiúsculo, que deve ser entendida como a correspondência do enunciado da acusação e os fatos nela descritos. Somente se atendidas tais condições é que a sentença condenatória poderá ser aceita como racionalmente justificada.
A convicção contextualizada e a verdade negociada no processo penal: desmistificando a confissão como elemento de convencimento pleno do julgador penal
Authors: Rodrigues Paulo Gustavo
Published: March 2017

O presente artigo busca analisar a problemática da verdade no Processo Penal, especialmente no contexto da análise dos elementos de convencimento do julgador e da valoração da confissão do acusado. A partir de uma revisão bibliográfica, buscar-se-á trabalhar o status da busca da verdade no processo penal para desmistificar o alto valor probatório que sempre se conferiu à confissão penal, especialmente se baseando na rejeição à negociabilidade acerca da verdade de premissas fáticas. Ademais, analisar-se-á de que forma as delações premiadas configuram uma desvirtuação das funções do processo penal no sentido de se convencionar um standard de aceitabilidade fática que ignore a busca da verdade como fundamento ético da persecução penal.
Editorial: A função do periódico científico e do editor para a produção do conhecimento no Direito e nas ciências criminais
Authors: Vasconcellos Vinicius Gomes de
Published: March 2017

Este editorial almeja analisar a função do periódico científico e do editor para a produção do conhecimento no Direito e nas ciências criminais. Assim, pretende-se focar na figura do editor científico (chefe, associado ou assistente), de modo a ressaltar a sua importância, o que parece ser subvalorizado em diversos periódicos na área do Direito e se reflete no injusto pouco reconhecimento assegurado aos editores pelos órgãos de fomento nas avaliações dos Programas de Pós-Graduação. A partir disso, serão abordadas questões relativas ao processo editorial científico de um modo amplo.
Crítica científica de “Legitimação não tradicional da ação penal”: Defensoria Pública e a tutela de direitos por meio do direito penal – uma recusa
Authors: Cacicedo Patrick
Published: March 2017

Em “Legitimação não tradicional da ação penal – a tutela de bens jurídicos por outras instituições públicas”, examina-se a questão da legitimidade da ação penal no caso de crimes com sujeito passivo indeterminado e propõe o reconhecimento de uma legitimação supletiva de outras instituições públicas (como a Defensoria Pública) para a promoção da ação penal de tais delitos quando houver inércia do Ministério Público. A análise realizada nesta crítica científica revela uma preocupação com os rumos da Defensoria Pública na esfera penal, que, ao se mostrar incapaz de tutelar bens jurídicos por meio do direito penal, pode se tornar mais um agente impulsionador do poder punitivo do Estado, com a consequente reprodução das desigualdades sociais e da violação da vida e dignidade humanas, justamente o reverso da ideia que motivou sua constituição como mecanismo de defesa dos direitos humanos dos vulneráveis.
Editorial: Sobre a exigência de um método de escrita de artigos científicos e de estudo do Direito Processual Penal
Authors: Capparelli Bruna
Published: March 2017

Neste editorial pretende-se analisar a temática da metodologia científica para escrita de artigos científicos e estudo do Direito Processual Penal, de modo a elucidar a importância da pesquisa e e o valor da ciência nesse âmbito.
La delación premiada en España: instrumentos para el fomento de la colaboración con la justicia
Authors: Ortiz Juan Carlos
Published: March 2017

Junto con los clásicos debates jurídicos referidos a la atribución o no al Ministerio Fiscal de la fase de investigación, junto con la introducción en nuestro sistema procesal del principio de oportunidad penal, cada vez cobra mayor atención en España la conveniencia de articular medidas legales que incentiven la colaboración con la Justicia, y en especial, las confesiones y delaciones de criminales arrepentidos, como instrumentos que favorecerían la obtención de valiosa información y fuentes de prueba, sobre todo en lo que se refiere a la delincuencia económica. El presente estudio expone las distintas figuras jurídicas utilizadas actualmente como incentivos para premiar la delación de colaboradores, testigos y acusados, y examina su evolución de cara a su futura incorporación a la normativa procesal española.
A obrigatoriedade do duplo registro da colaboração premiada e o acesso pela defesa técnica
Authors: Borri Luiz Antonio , Soares Rafael Junior
Published: March 2017

O artigo tem o objetivo de discutir o tema atinente ao duplo registro dos atos de colaboração premiada, assim como, a possibilidade de sonegar ao investigado/acusado o acesso a uma das formas do registro. A matéria tem relevo notadamente em face da redação do art. 4º, §13, da Lei 12.850/13, o qual prevê que, sempre que possível, deve-se promover o registro das declarações por meio audiovisual, indicando forma expressa de registro das declarações colhidas em sede de colaboração. Ademais, os dados atuais indicam a existência de número significativo de novas tecnologias, dotadas de mecanismos hábeis a promover o registro das declarações pelo meio previsto em lei, indicando que as autoridades legais possuem o ônus de justificar os motivos que conduzem a inviabilidade do registro audiovisual dos depoimentos do colaborador premiado. Finalmente, é salutar viabilizar à defesa todas as formas de registro das declarações obtidas em sede de delação, sobretudo porque o Ministério Público detém conhecimento de tais elementos, de modo que a restrição de acesso implica violação à paridade de armas.
Colaboração unilateral premiada como consectário lógico das balizas constitucionais do devido processo legal brasileiro
Authors: Santos Marcos Paulo Dutra
Published: March 2017

O artigo objetiva assentar a possibilidade da colaboração premiada unilateral, independentemente de acordo prévio com o Ministério Público. A partir do contraponto entre os modelos norte-americano e italiano de justiça penal negocial e o praticado no Brasil, demonstrar-se-á que a aceitação dessa modalidade de cooperação, considerada a natureza dos benefícios previstos em lei, é decorrência natural e inafastável dos princípios constitucionais informativos do ordenamento processual penal brasileiro.
Crítica científica de “A colaboração premiada como instrumento de política criminal” – um adendo sobre a necessária visão político-criminal do processo penal
Authors: Divan Gabriel Antinolfi
Published: March 2017

O presente trabalho trata-se de crítica científica ao artigo “A colaboração premiada como instrumento de política criminal”, de autoria de M. Aires e F. Fernandes. Nele, são exibidas duas linhas de leitura enquanto pontos de reflexão crítica quanto ao texto dos autores. A primeira consiste em uma discussão sobre o caráter político-criminal do processo penal, em tom de oposição frente à simples chancela (processual) do direito material que dessa classificação poderia advir. A segunda, exibe questionamentos acerca da possibilidade de conformação inconstitucional que pode ser oriunda de uma visão dicotômica na prática e na dogmática processuais, se forem antagonizados padrões de eficiência processual e garantias constitucionais atinentes. A conclusão visa a endossar uma visão político-criminal do processo penal, ponderados certos limites para essa chancela e o binômio referidos nos dois momentos de leitura.