bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Irisin exerts dual effects on browning and adipogenesis of human white adipocytes
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Xie Chao , Wang Hai , Foss Robin M. , Clare Morgan , George Eva Vertes , Li Shiwu , Katz Adam , Cheng Henrique , Ding Yousong , Tang Dongqi , Reeves Westley H. , Yang Li-Jun
Published: July 2016

To better understand the role of irisin in humans, we examined the effects of irisin in human primary adipocytes and fresh human subcutaneous white adipose tissue (scWAT). Human primary adipocytes derived from 28 female donors' fresh scWAT were used to examine the effects of irisin on browning and mitochondrial respiration, and preadipocytes were used to examine the effects of irisin on adipogenesis and osteogenesis. Cultured fragments of scWAT and perirenal brown fat were used for investigating signal transduction pathways that mediate irisin's browning effect by Western blotting to detect phosphorylated forms of p38, ERK, and STAT3 as well as uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1). Individual responses to irisin in scWAT were correlated with basal expression levels of brown/beige genes. Irisin upregulated the expression of browning-associated genes and UCP1 protein in both cultured primary mature adipocytes and fresh adipose tissues. It also significantly increased thermogenesis at 5 nmol/l by elevating cellular energy metabolism (OCR and ECAR). Treating human scWAT with irisin increased UCP1 expression by activating the ERK and p38 MAPK signaling. Blocking either pathway with specific inhibitors abolished irisin-induced UCP1 upregulation. However, our results showed that UCP1 in human perirenal adipose tissue was insensitive to irisin. Basal levels of brown/beige and FNDC5 genes correlated positively with the browning response of scWAT to irisin. In addition, irisin significantly inhibited adipogenic differentiation but promoted osteogenic differentiation. We conclude that irisin promotes “browning” of mature white adipocytes by increasing cellular thermogenesis, whereas it inhibits adipogenesis and promotes osteogenesis during lineage-specific differentiation. Our findings provide a rationale for further exploring the therapeutic use of irisin in obesity and exercise-associated bone formation.
Liraglutide prevents microvascular insulin resistance and preserves muscle capillary density in high-fat diet-fed rats
Authors: Chai Weidong , Fu Zhuo , Aylor Kevin W. , Barrett Eugene J. , Liu Zhenqi
Published: July 2016

Muscle microvasculature critically regulates endothelial exchange surface area to facilitate transendothelial delivery of insulin, nutrients, and oxygen to myocytes. Insulin resistance blunts insulin-mediated microvascular recruitment and decreases muscle capillary density; both contribute to lower microvascular blood volume. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and its analogs are able to dilate blood vessels and stimulate endothelial cell proliferation. In this study, we aim to determine the effects of sustained stimulation of the GLP-1 receptors on insulin-mediated capillary recruitment and metabolic insulin responses, small arterial endothelial function, and muscle capillary density. Rats were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 4 wk with or without simultaneous administration of liraglutide and subjected to a euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp for 120 min after an overnight fast. Insulin-mediated muscle microvascular recruitment and muscle oxygenation were determined before and during insulin infusion. Muscle capillary density was determined and distal saphenous artery used for determination of endothelial function and insulin-mediated vasodilation. HFD induced muscle microvascular insulin resistance and small arterial vessel endothelial dysfunction and decreased muscle capillary density. Simultaneous treatment of HFD-fed rats with liraglutide prevented all of these changes and improved insulin-stimulated glucose disposal. These were associated with a significantly increased AMPK phosphorylation and the expressions of VEGF and its receptors. We conclude that GLP-1 receptor agonists may exert their salutary glycemic effect via improving microvascular insulin sensitivity and muscle capillary density during the development of insulin resistance, and early use of GLP-1 receptor agonists may attenuate metabolic insulin resistance as well as prevent cardiovascular complications of diabetes.
The Role of Resorbable Plate and Artificial Bone Substitute in Reconstruction of Large Orbital Floor Defect
Authors: Kwon Ho , Kim Ho Jun , Seo Bommie F. , Jeong Yeon Jin , Jung Sung-No , Shim Hyung-Sup
Published: July 2016

It is essential to reduce and reconstruct bony defects adequately in large orbital floor fracture and defect. Among many reconstructive methods, alloplastic materials have attracted attention because of their safety and ease of use. We have used resorbable plates combined with artificial bone substitutes in large orbital floor defect reconstructions and have evaluated their long-term reliability compared with porous polyethylene plate. A total of 147 patients with traumatic orbital floor fracture were included in the study. Surgical results were evaluated by clinical evaluations, exophthalmometry, and computed tomography at least 12 months postoperatively. Both orbital floor height discrepancy and orbital volume change were calculated and compared with preoperative CT findings. The average volume discrepancy and vertical height discrepancies were not different between two groups. Also, exophthalmometric measurements were not significantly different between the two groups. No significant postoperative complication including permanent diplopia, proptosis, and enophthalmos was noted. Use of a resorbable plate with an artificial bone substitute to repair orbital floor defects larger than 2.5 cm2in size yielded long-lasting, effective reconstruction without significant complications. We therefore propose our approach as an effective alternative method for large orbital floor reconstructions.
SSR Mapping of QTLs Conferring Cold Tolerance in an Interspecific Cross of Tomato
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhou Tengxia , Ge Haiyan , Pang Wen , Gao Lijie , Ren Li , Chen Huoying
Published: July 2016

A population of 146 RILs (Recombinant Inbred Line) was derived from the cross between a cold-sensitive cultivatedSolanum lycopersicumL. XF98-7 and a cold-tolerant wildSolanum pimpinellifoliumLA2184. Relative germination ratio (RGR) and chilling index (CI) were used to evaluate the cold tolerance of the parental lines and RILs. It was found that the RGR and CI were significantly different betweenS. lycopersicumXF98-7 andS. pimpinellifoliumLA2184 under cold treatment, indicating that wild species was more adapted to chilling temperature. The continuous and normal distribution of RGR and CI in RIL population suggested that the trait of cold tolerance was a typically quantitative trait controlled by multigenes. The molecular linkage map was constructed by using 120 simple-sequence repeat (SSR) markers, resulting in 15 linkage groups, with a total distance of 256.8 cM and average interval of 2.14 cM. Five QTLs controlling RGR and four QTLs for CI were detected with genetic contribution ranging from 0.95% to 19.55%. Thus, the nine QTLs will provide references for further fine position mapping for cold tolerance. The polymorphic markers could be used as a way of indirectly selecting the plant trait of interest and would promote developing new tomato variety by marker-assisted selection.
A Systematic Literature Review of Adverse Events Associated with Systemic Treatments Used in Advanced Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Colosia Ann , Khan Shahnaz , Hackshaw Michelle D. , Oglesby Alan , Kaye James A. , Skolnik Jeffrey M.
Published: July 2016

This systematic literature review describes adverse events (AEs) among patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) who received second-line or later anticancer therapies. Searches were conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies of adults with advanced or metastatic STS who received systemic anticancer therapy before enrollment in a randomized-controlled trial of pazopanib, another targeted cancer agent, or cytotoxic chemotherapy. Of 204 publications identified, seven articles representing six unique studies met inclusion criteria. Additional safety results for pazopanib were identified on ClinicalTrials.gov. Hematologic toxicities were common with all therapies evaluated (pazopanib, trabectedin, dacarbazine ± gemcitabine, gemcitabine ± docetaxel, cyclophosphamide, and ifosfamide). Studies differed in AE type, timing of assessment, and outcomes reported, although patient populations and AE assessment timing were relatively similar for pazopanib and trabectedin. AEs that were more common with trabectedin than pazopanib were anemia, neutropenia, nausea/vomiting, and elevations in aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase. An AE that was more common with pazopanib than trabectedin was anorexia. Only the pazopanib study reported AE frequencies versus placebo. A planned meta-analysis was not feasible, as there was no common comparator. More well-designed studies that include common comparators are needed for comparison of safety effects among treatments for STS.
Association of Living Arrangement Conditions and Socioeconomic Differentials with Anemia Status among Women in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Bishwajit Ghose , Yaya Sanni , Tang Shangfeng , Hossain Akmal , Fan Yang , Akter Mahmuda , Feng Zhanchun
Published: July 2016

In Bangladesh, iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia and remains a significant public health concern. Being a high anemia prevalent country, numerous efforts have been made to confront the issue especially among women and children by both local and international actors. Though the situation has substantially improved in recent years, a staggering number of adult women are currently living with anemia. The etiology of anemia is a multifactorial problem and has been proposed to be associated with various household, societal, economic, cultural factors apart from dietary habits. However, evidence regarding the household arrangements and socioeconomic determinants of anemia is scarce, especially in the context of Bangladesh. To this end, we utilized the 2011 demographic and health survey data to explore the association between anemia status and selected demographic, socioeconomic, and household characteristics. Our result showed significant correlation of anemia with both sociodemographic and household characteristics. Among the sociodemographic variables the following were found to be significantly associated with anemia status: age (p=0.014; OR = 1.195; 95% CI = 1.036–1.378) and microcredit membership (p=0.014; OR = 1.19; 95% CI = 1.037–1.386). Regarding the household arrangements, women utilizing biomass fuel for cooking (p<0.019; OR = 1.82; 95% CI = 0.981–2.460) were more likely to be anemic.
Analysis of Denial of Service Impact on Data Routing in Mobile eHealth Wireless Mesh Network
Authors: Alanazi Shaker , Saleem Kashif , Al-Muhtadi Jalal , Derhab Abdelouahid
Published: July 2016

Wireless mesh networks (WMNs) are a promising technology that has emerged with the combination of several wireless networks. These wireless networks and devices communicate in a mesh network manner, to provide edge-to-edge, easy, and cost-effective data communication. Many current and future promising applications depend on WMN and one of the most important applications is eHealthcare, where the confidential information transfers with the help of WMN. WMN devices communicate over a wireless medium, which opens the system to a number of vulnerabilities; thus, an intruder can launch malicious activities through many types of attacks that can result in denial of service (DoS). In this paper, the available solutions to overcome these attacks are simulated and evaluated in terms of data packet delivery ratio, end-to-end delay, and network throughput and under different cases of static and mobile WMNs, which helps in providing suggestions to enhance existing protocols and mitigate the effect of DoS caused by such attacks.
A Joint Modeling Analysis of Passengers’ Intercity Travel Destination and Mode Choices in Yangtze River Delta Megaregion of China
Authors: Wang Yanli , Wu Bing , Dong Zhi , Ye Xin
Published: July 2016

Joint destination-mode travel choice models are developed for intercity long-distance travel among sixteen cities in Yangtze River Delta Megaregion of China. The model is developed for all the trips in the sample and also by two different trip purposes, work-related business and personal business trips, to accommodate different time values and attraction factors. A nested logit modeling framework is applied to model trip destination and mode choices in two different levels, where the lower level is a mode choice model and the upper level is a destination choice model. The utility values from various travel modes in the lower level are summarized into a composite utility, which is then specified into the destination choice model as an intercity impedance factor. The model is then applied to predict the change in passenger number from Shanghai to Yangzhou between scenarios with and without high-speed rail service to demonstrate the applicability. It is helpful for understanding and modeling megaregional travel destination and mode choice behaviors in the context of developing country.
Receptivity to Bariatric Surgery in Qualified Patients
Authors: Fung Michael , Wharton Sean , Macpherson Alison , Kuk Jennifer L.
Published: July 2016

Objectives. Bariatric surgery has been shown to be an effective intervention for weight loss and diabetes management. Despite this, many patients qualified for bariatric surgery are not interested in undergoing the procedure. The objective of this study is to determine the factors influencing receptivity to bariatric surgery among those who qualify for the procedure.Methods. Patients attending a publicly funded weight management clinic who qualified for bariatric surgery were asked to complete an elective questionnaire between February 2013 and April 2014.Results. A total of 371 patients (72% female) completed the questionnaire. Only 87 of 371 (23%) participants were interested in bariatric surgery. Individuals interested in bariatric surgery had a higher BMI (48.0 versus 46.2 kg/m2,P=0.03) and believed that they would lose more weight with surgery (51 versus 44 kg,P=0.0069). Those who scored highly on past weight loss success and financial concerns were less likely to be interested in bariatric surgery, whereas those who scored highly on high receptivity to surgery and positive social support were more likely to be interested in bariatric surgery.Conclusion. Although participants overestimated the effect of bariatric surgery on weight loss, most were still not interested in bariatric surgery.
Does the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale Predict Response to Cognitive Remediation in Schizophrenia?
Authors: Benoit Audrey , Harvey Philippe-Olivier , Bherer Louis , Lepage Martin
Published: July 2016

Cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) has emerged as a viable treatment option for people diagnosed with schizophrenia presenting disabling cognitive deficits. However, it is important to determine which variables can influence response to CRT in order to provide cost-effective treatment. This study’s aim was to explore cognitive insight as a potential predictor of cognitive improvement after CRT. Twenty patients with schizophrenia completed a 24-session CRT program involving 18 hours of computer exercises and 6 hours of group discussion to encourage generalization of cognitive training to everyday activities. Pre- and posttest assessments included the CogState Research Battery and the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale (BCIS). Lower self-certainty on the BCIS at baseline was associated with greater improvement in speed of processing (rs=-0.48;p<0.05) and visual memory (rs=-0.46;p<0.05). The results of this study point out potential associations between self-certainty and cognitive improvement after CRT, a variable that can easily be measured in clinical settings to help evaluate which patients may benefit most from the intervention. They also underline the need to keep investigating the predictors of good CRT outcomes, which can vary widely between patients.
Amphetamine Containing Dietary Supplements and Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Perez-Downes Julio , Hritani Abdulwahab , Baldeo Candice , Antoun Patrick
Published: July 2016

Weight loss is one of the most researched and marketed topics in American society. Dietary regimens, medications that claim to boost the metabolism, and the constant pressure to fit into society all play a role in our patient’s choices regarding new dietary products. One of the products that are well known to suppress appetite and cause weight loss is amphetamines. While these medications suppress appetite, most people are not aware of the detrimental side effects of amphetamines, including hypertension, tachycardia, arrhythmias, and in certain instances acute myocardial infarction. Here we present the uncommon entity of an acute myocardial infarction due to chronic use of an amphetamine containing dietary supplement in conjunction with an exercise regimen. Our case brings to light further awareness regarding use of amphetamines. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion of use of these substances when young patients with no risk factors for coronary artery disease present with acute arrhythmias, heart failure, and myocardial infarctions.
Generalized Information Equilibrium Approaches to EEG Sleep Stage Discrimination
Authors: Zorick Todd , Smith Jason
Published: July 2016

Recent advances in neuroscience have raised the hypothesis that the underlying pattern of neuronal activation which results in electroencephalography (EEG) signals is via power-law distributed neuronal avalanches, while EEG signals are nonstationary. Therefore, spectral analysis of EEG may miss many properties inherent in such signals. A complete understanding of such dynamical systems requires knowledge of the underlying nonequilibrium thermodynamics. In recent work by Fielitz and Borchardt (2011, 2014), the concept of information equilibrium (IE) in information transfer processes has successfully characterized many different systems far from thermodynamic equilibrium. We utilized a publicly available database of polysomnogram EEG data from fourteen subjects with eight different one-minute tracings of sleep stage 2 and waking and an overlapping set of eleven subjects with eight different one-minute tracings of sleep stage 3. We applied principles of IE to model EEG as a system that transfers (equilibrates) information from the time domain to scalp-recorded voltages. We find that waking consciousness is readily distinguished from sleep stages 2 and 3 by several differences in mean information transfer constants. Principles of IE applied to EEG may therefore prove to be useful in the study of changes in brain function more generally.
Effects of Morphology and Topology on the Effective Stiffness of Chiral Cellular Materials in the Transverse Plane
Authors: Karakoç Alp , Taciroǧlu Ertuǧrul
Published: July 2016

The present study investigates the influence of topology and morphology on the effective stiffness of chiral cellular materials in the transverse plane by means of a homogenization method. For this purpose, finite element models of representative volume elements for regular hexagonal and hexagonal-chiral configurations are used and simulations are conducted to quantify how cell topology—that is, chirality inside the cell—and cell wall slenderness affect the effective stiffness. Closed form solutions for regular hexagonal square and triangular RVEs provided in the literature are then taken as a basis for model validation. The results indicate that there are drastic differences between regular hexagonal and hexagonal-chiral configurations, which can be explained in terms of deformation mechanism transformations between bending and stretching. The investigations also reveal the positive impact of cell wall slenderness on stiffness due to volumetric increase in the cell wall material resisting the deformation.
An Adaptive Fuzzy-Logic Traffic Control System in Conditions of Saturated Transport Stream
Authors: Yusupbekov N. R. , Marakhimov A. R. , Igamberdiev H. Z. , Umarov Sh. X.
Published: July 2016

This paper considers the problem of building adaptive fuzzy-logic traffic control systems (AFLTCS) to deal with information fuzziness and uncertainty in case of heavy traffic streams. Methods of formal description of traffic control on the crossroads based on fuzzy sets and fuzzy logic are proposed. This paper also provides efficient algorithms for implementing AFLTCS and develops the appropriate simulation models to test the efficiency of suggested approach.
Experimental and Analytical Investigation Based on 1/2 Scale Model for a Cleanroom Unit Module Consisting of Steel Section and Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Kim Sijun , Choi Se Woon
Published: July 2016

The rapid advances in high tech industries and the increased demand for high precision and reliability of their production environments call for larger structures and higher vertical vibration performance for high technology facilities. Therefore, there is an urgent demand for structural design and vertical vibration evaluation technologies for high tech facility structures. For estimating the microvibration performance for a cleanroom unit module in high technology facilities, this study performs the scale modeling experiment and analytical validation. First, the 1/2 scale model (width 7500 mm, depth 7500 mm, and height 7250 mm) for a cleanroom unit module is manufactured based on a mass-based similitude law which does not require additional mass. The dynamic test using an impact hammer is conducted to obtain the transfer function of 1/2 scale model. The transfer function derived from the test is compared with the analytical results to calibrate the analytical model. It is found that, unlike for static analyses, the stiffness of embedded reinforcement must be considered for estimating microvibration responses. Finally, the similitude law used in this study is validated by comparing the full-scale analytical model and 1/2 scale analytical model for a cleanroom unit module.
Stem Cells Applications in Regenerative Medicine and Disease Therapeutics
Authors: Mahla Ranjeet Singh
Published: July 2016

Regenerative medicine, the most recent and emerging branch of medical science, deals with functional restoration of tissues or organs for the patient suffering from severe injuries or chronic disease. The spectacular progress in the field of stem cell research has laid the foundation for cell based therapies of disease which cannot be cured by conventional medicines. The indefinite self-renewal and potential to differentiate into other types of cells represent stem cells as frontiers of regenerative medicine. The transdifferentiating potential of stem cells varies with source and according to that regenerative applications also change. Advancements in gene editing and tissue engineering technology have endorsed the ex vivo remodelling of stem cells grown into 3D organoids and tissue structures for personalized applications. This review outlines the most recent advancement in transplantation and tissue engineering technologies of ESCs, TSPSCs, MSCs, UCSCs, BMSCs, and iPSCs in regenerative medicine. Additionally, this review also discusses stem cells regenerative application in wildlife conservation.
Soft Tissue Augmentation Techniques in Implants Placed and Provisionalized Immediately: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rojo Rosa , Prados-Frutos Juan Carlos , Manchón Ángel , Rodríguez-Molinero Jesús , Sammartino Gilberto , Calvo Guirado José Luis , Gómez-de Diego Rafael
Published: July 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of techniques for soft tissue augmentation in the placement of immediate implants with and without provisionalization and to assess the quality of the reports in the literature. Randomized clinical trials, prospective clinical trials, and case series were included in this review. Clinical questions were formulated and organised according to the PICOS strategy. An electronic search was performed in PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, and ISI Web up until June 2016. Interexaminer agreement on eligibility (k=0.842;p=0.103) and quality (k=0.933;p<0.001) was high. Methodological approaches were assessed using criteria based on design related forms designed by the Dutch Cochrane Collaboration. Finally, 14 papers were identified. In two studies, the implant survival was 90%; for the rest of the studies it was 100%. All studies reported favourable aesthetic, biological, and radiographic outcomes. Surgical and biomechanical complications of this technique were not relevant. This technique effectively compensates for the expected loss of volume of the oral soft tissues and maintains high success rates with good aesthetic results over time.
Human Ribosomal RNA-Derived Resident MicroRNAs as the Transmitter of Information upon the Cytoplasmic Cancer Stress
Authors: Yoshikawa Masaru , Fujii Yoichi Robertus
Published: July 2016

Dysfunction of ribosome biogenesis induces divergent ribosome-related diseases including ribosomopathy and occasionally results in carcinogenesis. Although many defects in ribosome-related genes have been investigated, little is known about contribution of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) in ribosome-related disorders. Meanwhile, microRNA (miRNA), an important regulator of gene expression, is derived from both coding and noncoding region of the genome and is implicated in various diseases. Therefore, we performedin silicoanalyses using M-fold, TargetScan, GeneCoDia3, and so forth to investigate RNA relationships between rRNA and miRNA against cellular stresses. We have previously shown that miRNA synergism is significantly correlated with disease and the miRNA package is implicated in memory for diseases; therefore, quantum Dynamic Nexus Score (DNS) was also calculated using MESer program. As a result, seventeen RNA sequences identical with known miRNAs were detected in the human rRNA and termed as rRNA-hosted miRNA analogs (rmiRNAs). Eleven of them were predicted to form stem-loop structures as pre-miRNAs, and especially one stem-loop was completely identical withhsa-pre-miR-3678located in the non-rDNA region. Thus, these rmiRNAs showed significantly high DNS values, participation in regulation of cancer-related pathways, and interaction with nucleolar RNAs, suggesting that rmiRNAs may be stress-responsible resident miRNAs which transmit stress-tuning information in multiple levels.
Patient Satisfaction with Spanish Pain Centers: Observational Study with More than 3,000 Patients
Authors: García García Juan Antonio , Hernández-Puiggròs Patricia , Tesedo Nieto Javier , Acín Lázaro María Pilar , Carrera González Alfredo , Soler Miguel José Arranz , Maldonado Vega Sergio
Published: July 2016

Chronic pain is a serious problem in Spain. This multicenter, epidemiological 3-month follow-up study investigates pain management efficacy in Spanish centers using patient satisfaction criteria. 3,414 eligible adult patients (65,6% female) with moderate to severe chronic pain from 146 pain centers were included. Patient satisfaction was assessed based onto question 18 of Spanish healthcare barometer-CSI. Pain evolution (Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF) and visual analog scale (VAS)), quality of life/EuroQol-5, and pain control expectations fulfillment were also assessed. Mean age was 61.3 years. 64.4% of participating centers employed multidisciplinary pain management approach. After 3 months, mean patient satisfaction was 7.8 (1–10) on the CIS barometer. Medical staff received the highest scores, whereas waiting for tests, appointment request to appointment date time, and waiting times at the center the lowest. Mean pain decreased from 7.4 to 4.0; BPI-SF intensity decreased from 6.5 to 3.8; pain control expectations were met in 78.7% of patients; EuroQoL-5D utility index increased from 0.37 to 0.62, p<0.001, and health status (VAS) from 40.6 to 61.9, p<0.001. Chronic pain patients (90%) are satisfied with Spanish centers care; 80% had their pain control expectations met. Quality of life improved remarkably: 71% felt moderately to significantly better. However, waiting times need improvement.
Caffeoylquinic Acid Derivatives Extract ofErigeron multiradiatusAlleviated Acute Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Rats through Inhibiting NF-KappaB and JNK Activations
Authors: Zhang Zhifeng , Liu Yuan , Ren Xuecong , Zhou Hua , Wang Kaishun , Zhang Hao , Luo Pei
Published: July 2016

Erigeron multiradiatus(Lindl.) Benth. has been used in Tibet folk medicine to treat various inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate antimyocardial ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury effect of caffeoylquinic acids derivatives ofE. multiradiatus(AE)in vivoand to explain underling mechanism. AE was prepared using the whole plant ofE. multiradiatusand contents of 6 caffeoylquinic acids determined through HPLC analysis. Myocardial I/R was induced by left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion for 30 minutes followed by 24 hours of reperfusion in rats. AE administration (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg) inhibited I/R-induced injury as indicated by decreasing myocardial infarct size, reducing of CK and LDH activities, and preventing ST-segment depression in dose-dependent manner. AE decreased cardiac tissue levels of proinflammatory factors TNF-αand IL-6 and attenuated leukocytes infiltration. AE was further demonstrated to significantly inhibit I-κB degradation, nuclear translocation of p-65 and phosphorylation of JNK. Our results suggested that cardioprotective effect of AE could be due to suppressing myocardial inflammatory response and blocking NF-κB and JNK activation pathway. Thus, caffeoylquinic acids might be the active compounds inE. multiradiatuson myocardial ischemia and be a potential natural drug for treating myocardial I/R injury.
Improving the Predictability of Severe Convective Weather Processes by Using Wind Vectors and Potential Temperature Changes: A Case Study of a Severe Thunderstorm
Authors: Wang Hao , Chen Gangyi , Lei Huanhuan , Wang Yongqian , Tang Shunxian
Published: July 2016

Strong, local convective weather events are capable of causing extensive damage, but weather observation systems with limited resolution and radar monitoring can typically provide only a few minutes to hours of prior warning time. This paper presents a comprehensive case study of the cumulative evolution of several characteristic quantities during one extremely severe convective weather process. The research results indicate that the main feature of strong convective weather is the uneven distribution of thermal energy in the atmosphere, and the structure of this heat distribution determines the level of instability in the atmosphere. A vertical “clockwise rolling current” occurs in the wind field structure at the beginning of the process, and this is accompanied by a rapid drop in temperature at the top of the troposphere. When these signs occurred in the case study, radar technology was used to refine the precipitation region and spatial characteristics of the approaching storm. The height and vertical evolution of radar echoes were indicative of the characteristics of the system’s movement through space. Such findings may be useful for improving the forecasting times for strong convective weather.
The Habituation/Cross-Habituation Test Revisited: Guidance from Sniffing and Video Tracking
Authors: Coronas-Samano G. , Ivanova A. V. , Verhagen J. V.
Published: July 2016

The habituation/cross-habituation test (HaXha) is a spontaneous odor discrimination task that has been used for many decades to evaluate olfactory function in animals. Animals are presented repeatedly with the same odorant after which a new odorant is introduced. The time the animal explores the odor object is measured. An animal is considered to cross-habituate during the novel stimulus trial when the exploration time is higher than the prior trial and indicates the degree of olfactory patency. On the other hand, habituation across the repeated trials involves decreased exploration time and is related to memory patency, especially at long intervals. Classically exploration is timed using a stopwatch when the animal is within 2 cm of the object and aimed toward it. These criteria are intuitive, but it is unclear how they relate to olfactory exploration, that is, sniffing. We used video tracking combined with plethysmography to improve accuracy, avoid observer bias, and propose more robust criteria for exploratory scoring when sniff measures are not available. We also demonstrate that sniff rate combined with proximity is the most direct measure of odorant exploration and provide a robust and sensitive criterion.
Effects of Arm Weight Support Training to Promote Recovery of Upper Limb Function for Subacute Patients after Stroke with Different Levels of Arm Impairments
Authors: Chan Irene H. L. , Fong Kenneth N. K. , Chan Dora Y. L. , Wang Apple Q. L. , Cheng Eddy K. N. , Chau Pinky H. Y. , Chow Kathy K. Y. , Cheung Hobby K. Y.
Published: July 2016

Purpose.The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of arm weight support training using the ArmeoSpring for subacute patients after stroke with different levels of hemiplegic arm impairments.Methods.48 inpatients with subacute stroke, stratified into 3 groups from mild to severe upper extremity impairment, were engaged in ArmeoSpring training for 45 minutes daily, 5 days per week for 3 weeks, in addition to conventional rehabilitation. Evaluations were conducted at three measurement occasions: immediately before training (T1); immediately after training (T2); and at a 3-week follow-up (T3) by a blind rater.Results.Shoulder flexion active range of motion, Upper Extremity Scores in the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), and Vertical Catch had the greatest differences in gain scores for patients between severe and moderate impairments, whereas FMA Hand Scores had significant differences in gain scores between moderate and mild impairments. There was no significant change in muscle tone or hand-path ratios between T1, T2, and T3 within the groups.Conclusion.Arm weight support training is beneficial for subacute stroke patients with moderate to severe arm impairments, especially to improve vertical control such as shoulder flexion, and there were no adverse effects in muscle tone.
Meeting Report: The Role of the Mobilome in Cancer
Authors: Ardeljan Daniel , Taylor Martin S. , Burns Kathleen H. , Boeke Jef D. , Espey Michael Graham , Woodhouse Elisa C. , Howcroft Thomas Kevin
Published: July 2016

Approximately half of the human genome consists of repetitive sequence attributed to the activities of mobile DNAs, including DNA transposons, RNA transposons, and endogenous retroviruses. Of these, only long interspersed elements (LINE-1 or L1) and sequences copied by LINE-1 remain mobile in our species today. Although cells restrict L1 activity by both transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms, L1 derepression occurs in developmental and pathologic contexts, including many types of cancers. However, we have limited knowledge of the extent and consequences of L1 expression in premalignancies and cancer. Participants in this NIH strategic workshop considered key questions to enhance our understanding of mechanisms and roles the mobilome may play in cancer biology. Cancer Res; 76(15); 4316–9. ©2016 AACR.
The WASF3–NCKAP1–CYFIP1 Complex Is Essential for Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Teng Yong , Qin Haiyan , Bahassan Abdulaziz , Bendzunas N. George , Kennedy Eileen J. , Cowell John K.
Published: July 2016

Inactivation of the WASF3 gene suppresses invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells. WASF3 function is regulated through a protein complex that includes the NCKAP1 and CYFIP1 proteins. Here, we report that silencing NCKAP1 destabilizes the WASF3 complex, resulting in a suppression of the invasive capacity of breast, prostate, and colon cancer cells. In an in vivo model of spontaneous metastasis in immunocompromized mice, loss of NCKAP1 also suppresses metastasis. Activation of the WASF protein complex occurs through interaction with RAC1, and inactivation of NCKAP1 prevents the association of RAC1 with the WASF3 complex. Thus, WASF3 depends on NCKAP1 to promote invasion and metastasis. Here, we show that stapled peptides targeting the interface between NCKAP1 and CYFIP1 destabilize the WASF3 complex and suppress RAC1 binding, thereby suppressing invasion. Using a complex-disrupting compound identified in this study termed WANT3, our results offer a mechanistic proof of concept to target this interaction as a novel approach to inhibit breast cancer metastasis. Cancer Res; 76(17); 5133–42. ©2016 AACR.
Clinical Outcome of Patients with Deep Brain Stimulation of the Centromedian Thalamic Nucleus for Refractory Epilepsy and Location of the Active Contacts
Authors: Son Byung-chul , Shon Young Min , Choi Jin-gyu , Kim Jiyeon , Ha Sang-woo , Kim Sung-Hoon , Lee Si-hoon
Published: July 2016

Objectives: To investigate the clinical outcome of patients treated with chronic deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the centromedian nucleus (CM) for refractory epilepsy and to determine the location of active contacts. Methods: The outcome of CM stimulation was evaluated as percent seizure reduction compared to the baseline 3 months. To establish the location of active contacts, 27 leads were studied in 14 patients with refractory epilepsy. An analysis was conducted to reveal whether any coordinates of the center of the active contacts predicted percent seizure reduction. Results: With an average follow-up of 18.2 ± 5.6 months, the mean percent seizure reduction (n = 14) was 68 ± 22.4% (25-100%). Eleven of the 14 patients (78.6%) achieved >50% improvement in seizure frequency. Specifically, all 4 patients (100%) with generalized epilepsy (Lennox-Gastaut syndrome) and 7 of 10 patients (70%) with multilobar epilepsy showed >50% reduction in seizure frequency. The mean coordinates of the center of the active contact were located in the superior part of the anterior ventrolateral CM. The calculated coordinates of laterality from midline (x), anterior-posterior (y) and height (z) from the posterior commissure did not correlate with seizure outcome measured by percent seizure reduction. However, the locations of active contacts used during chronic CM stimulation in multilobar epilepsy were identified more dorsal to those used in generalized epilepsy. Conclusions: Chronic CM stimulation is a safe and effective means in the treatment of refractory epilepsy.
Outcomes of Elderly Patients with Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Autoantibody-Associated Vasculitis Treated with Immunosuppressive Therapy
Authors: Judge Parminder K. , Reschen Michael E. , Haynes Richard , Sharples Edward J.
Published: July 2016

Background/Aims: Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a cause of biopsy-proven acute kidney injury, more common in the elderly. Treatment requires immunosuppression, which can have significant toxic effects. The aim of this study was to assess whether morbidity and mortality that are associated with immunosuppression for AAV varied with age. Methods: A retrospective review of 232 patients given induction therapy with prednisolone and cyclophosphamide was conducted. Information was collected on baseline characteristics (including requirement for dialysis at presentation) and the occurrence of leukopenia, infection, end-stage renal disease and death during follow-up. Results: Median follow-up was 51 months. Older patients (aged ≥70 years) were treated with lower total cyclophosphamide doses than those aged <70 years (mean 7.3 g (SD 4.4) vs. 10.7 g (SD 7.4), respectively). Increasing age was associated with an increased risk of leukopenia (odds ratio (OR) 1.50; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20-1.86; p < 0.001), and older patients were more likely to develop infections in the first year (OR 1.87; 95% CI 1.1-3.2). Older patients were also significantly more likely to require dialysis at presentation (OR 1.66; 95% CI 1.13-2.5) and longer term. After multivariable adjustment, age and requirement for dialysis at presentation were significant predictors of death (hazard ratio (HR) per year of age 1.07; 95% CI 1.03-1.11; p < 0.001 and HR 2.2; 95% CI 1.10-4.38; p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions: Among patients treated with prednisolone and cyclophosphamide, increasing age and dialysis dependency were associated with worse survival. Older patients were more likely to develop treatment-related complications despite lower cumulative doses of immunosuppression. Morbidity and mortality associated with treatment must therefore be carefully balanced against that associated with the disease process itself.
The RESCueH Programme: Testing New Non-Pharmacologic Interventions for Alcohol Use Disorders: Rationale and Methods
Authors: Søgaard Nielsen Anette , Nielsen Bent , Andersen Kjeld , Roessler Kirsten Kaya , Bühringer Gerhard , Bogenschutz Michael , Ekstrøm Claus Thorn , Søgaard Jes ,   The RESCueH Research Group
Published: July 2016

Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the most important lifestyle factors affecting the disease burden in the Western world. The results of treatment in daily practice are modest at best. The aim of the RESCueH programme is to develop and evaluate methods, which are as practice-near as possible, and therefore can be implemented quickly and easily in everyday clinical practice. It is the first clinical alcohol programme to be transatlantic in scope, with implementation in treatment centers located in Denmark, Germany and the US. The RESCueH programme comprises 5 randomized controlled trials, and the studies can be expected to result in (1) more patients starting treatment in specialized outpatient clinics, (2) a greater number of elderly patients being treated, (3) increased patient motivation for treatment and thus improved adherence, (4) more patients with stable positive outcomes after treatment and (5) fewer patients relapsing into harmful drinking. The aim of this paper is to discuss the rationale for the RESCueH programme, to present the studies and expected results.
Very Early Presentation of Extrahepatic Portal Vein Obstruction Causing Portal Hypertension in an Infant: Uncertainties in the Management and Therapeutic Limitations
Authors: Khodayar-Pardo Parisá , Peña Aldea Andrés , Ramírez González Ana , Meseguer Carrascosa Adela , Calabuig Bayo Cristina
Published: July 2016

Extrahepatic portal vein obstruction, although rare in children, is a significant cause of portal hypertension (PHT) leading to life-threatening gastrointestinal bleeding in the pediatric age group. PHT may also lead to other complications such as hyperesplenism, cholangyopathy, ascites, and even hepatopulmonary syndrome and portopulmonary hypertension that may require organ transplantation. Herein we report the case of an asymptomatic 11-month-old infant wherein a hepatomegaly and cavernous transformation of the portal vein was detected by liver ultrasound. Neither signs of thrombosis in arteriovenous system, nor affectation of biliary tract were identified in the magnetic resonance imaging study. A significant enlargement of the caudate lobe of the liver was reported. No risk factors were detected. The differential diagnosis performed was extensive. Inherited thrombophilia and storage disorders were especially considered. Liver biopsy was normal. Upper gastrointestinal esophagogastroduodenoscopy detected two small varicose cords on the distal third of the esophagus. Finding a cavernous transformation of the portal vein with evidence of collateral circulation in such an early age is a challenging condition for professionals, since PHT may lead to severe complications during childhood and can compromise growth and development. Evidence-based guidelines for the management of PHT in adults have been published. However, follow-up and treatment of pediatric patients have not yet been standardized. Moreover, management of PHT in infants faces particular difficulties such as technical restrictions that could hinder their treatment.
Interest in Extended Release Naltrexone among Opioid Users
Authors: Sharma Haase Kamni , Kunøe Nikolaj , Opheim Arild , Gaulen Zhanna , Njå Anne-Lill Mjølhus , Latif Zill-E-Huma , Solli Kristin Klemmetsby , Tanum Lars
Published: July 2016

Background/Aims: Treatment for addiction to illicit opioids has, thus far, been limited to 2 main approaches: maintaining physical dependence by administering opioids medically and medication-free abstinence with psychosocial support. Assisted abstinence by taking daily tablets with the opioid antagonist naltrexone is rarely practiced, but it is unclear whether this is due to the limited efficacy of this method or because of user opposition to antagonist medication. Therefore, we wanted to investigate opioid users' interest in antagonist treatment with naltrexone, administered as extended release injection, which supports abstinence by blocking illicit opioids for 4-5 weeks per administration. Method: A one-page questionnaire was distributed among opiate users at a broad range of outreach facilities and a total of 731 answered surveys were analysed. Results: More than half of the opioid users in our study were ‘very' or ‘quite' interested in receiving a 4-weekly opioid-blocking medication for a year (n = 421), while less than a quarter (n = 164) were ‘not interested' at all. Conclusion: We discovered a high user interest for naltrexone treatment, suggesting that the interest for such treatment was not a barrier to the implementation of extended release naltrexone treatment.
Contribuições à deficiência mental a partir da psicanálise: “El Molinet” - uma experiência institucional
Authors: Arenas Roque Hernández Núñez de
Published: July 2016

Tomando como referência a práxis da psicanálise, o artigo parte de algumas hipóteses teóricas sobre questões relativas à deficiência mental e aos problemas do desenvolvimento a partir de uma vertente institucional, apresenta em seguida algumas vinhetas clínicas extra ídas do trabalho desenvolvido no Centro de Orientação Sociolaboral e Clínica “O Molinet ”, centro espanhol que atende pessoas com diagnósticos de deficiência mental e psicose com mais de 16 anos.
O lugar do analista na extensão da psicanáliseà inclusão escolar
Authors: Ribeiro Jeanne Marie de Leers Costa , Bastos Angélica
Published: July 2016

O trabalho aborda a extensão da psicanálise sob a forma de interlocução entre as equipes das instituições de saúde mental e de ensino em torno da inclusão escolar. Trata-se de pesquisa realizada com crianças em tratamento no SAIIJ do Instituto Philippe Pinel com o objetivo de acompanhar casos de crianças autistas e psicóticas incluídas na rede regular de ensino público do Rio de Janeiro. A psicanalista se fez presente na condução de reuniões com profissionais do serviço clínico e equipe pedagógica das escolas. São apresentados dois casos acompanhados e discutidos os efeitos de segregação e criação de laços sociais
Psicanálise e educação: desafios e perspectivas
Authors: Rubim Luiza Mendes , Besset Vera Lopes
Published: July 2016

Neste texto propomos-nos a investigar a interseção psican álise e educação com o intuito de abordar um uso poss ível da psicanálise em escolas. Para tal, partimos de uma premissa, construída a partir da prática, de que a psicanálise se apresenta como um meio particular de dar tratamento ao real em jogo na educação, na atualidade. Ao se ofertar um espaço no qual os educadores, pais e alunos possam falar sobre suas experi ências, inquietações e angústias, entendido como um espaço de conversação, acreditamos que os envolvidos podem vislumbrar soluções inéditas para os impasses inerentes à educação.
Do universal ao singular: um tratamento possível do fracasso escolar
Authors: Cohen Ruth Helena Pinto
Published: July 2016

O presente artigo traz o testemunho de duas práticas de diálogo entre a psicanálise e a educa ção. No primeiro momento, expõe algumas conseqüências retiradas da conversação entre dois laboratórios do CIEN (Centre Interdisciplinaire sur Lenfant). No segundo, depoimentos são extraídos do projeto de pesquisa e intervenção Aleph, Sobre as Etiologias do Fracasso Escolar, desenvolvido no curso de Pós-graduação da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro.