bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of genetic deletion of soluble 5′-nucleotidases NT5C1A and NT5C2 on AMPK activation and nucleotide levels in contracting mouse skeletal muscles
Authors: Kviklyte Samanta , Vertommen Didier , Yerna Xavier , Andersén Harriet , Xu Xiufeng , Gailly Philippe , Bohlooly-Y Mohammad , Oscarsson Jan , Rider Mark H.
Published: March 2017

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays a key role in energy homeostasis and is activated in response to contraction-induced ATP depletion in skeletal muscle via a rise in intracellular AMP/ADP concentrations. AMP can be deaminated by AMP-deaminase (AMPD) to IMP, which is hydrolyzed to inosine by cytosolic 5′-nucleotidase II (NT5C2). AMP can also be hydrolyzed to adenosine by cytosolic 5′-nucleotidase 1A (NT5C1A). Previous gene silencing and overexpression studies indicated control of AMPK activation by NT5C enzymes. In the present study using gene knockout mouse models, we investigated the effects of NT5C1A and NT5C2 deletion on intracellular adenine nucleotide levels and AMPK activation in electrically stimulated skeletal muscles. Surprisingly, NT5C enzyme knockout did not lead to enhanced AMP or ADP concentrations in response to contraction, with no potentiation of increases in AMPK activity in extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus mouse muscles. Moreover, dual blockade of AMP metabolism in EDL using an AMPD inhibitor combined with NT5C1A deletion did not enhance rises in AMP and ADP or increased AMPK activation by electrical stimulation. The results on muscles from the NT5C knockout mice contradict previous findings where AMP levels and AMPK activity were shown to be modulated by NT5C enzymes.
Adaptive changes in GFR, tubular morphology, and transport in subtotal nephrectomized kidneys: modeling and analysis
Authors: Layton Anita T. , Edwards Aurélie , Vallon Volker
Published: March 2017

Removal of renal mass stimulates anatomical and functional adaptations in the surviving nephrons, including elevations in single-nephron glomerular filtration rate (SNGFR) and tubular hypertrophy. A goal of this study is to assess the extent to which the concomitant increases in filtered load and tubular transport capacity preserve homeostasis of water and salt. To accomplish that goal, we developed computational models to simulate solute transport and metabolism along nephron populations in a uninephrectomized (UNX) rat and a 5/6-nephrectomized (5/6-NX) rat. Model simulations indicate that nephrectomy-induced SNGFR increase and tubular hypertrophy go a long way to normalize excretion, but alone are insufficient to fully maintain salt balance. We then identified increases in the protein density of Na+-K+-ATPase, Na+-K+-2Cl− cotransporter, Na+-Cl− cotransporter, and epithelial Na+ channel, such that the UNX and 5/6-NX models predict urine flow and urinary Na+ and K+ excretions that are similar to sham levels. The models predict that, in the UNX and 5/6-NX kidneys, fractional water and salt reabsorption is similar to sham along the initial nephron segments (i.e., from the proximal tubule to the distal convoluted tubule), with a need to further reduce Na+ reabsorption and increase K+ secretion primarily along the connecting tubules and collecting ducts to achieve balance. Additionally, the models predict that, given the substantially elevated filtered and thus transport load among each of the surviving nephrons, oxygen consumption per nephron segment in a UNX or 5/6-NX kidney increases substantially. But due to the reduced nephron population, whole animal renal oxygen consumption is lower. The efficiency of tubular Na+ transport in the UNX and 5/6-NX kidneys is predicted to be similar to sham.
Presynaptic and extrasynaptic regulation of posterior nucleus of thalamus
Authors: Park Anthony , Li Ying , Masri Radi , Keller Asaf
Published: March 2017

The posterior nucleus of thalamus (PO) is a higher-order nucleus involved in sensorimotor processing, including nociception. An important characteristic of PO is its wide range of activity profiles that vary across states of arousal, thought to underlie differences in somatosensory perception subject to attention and degree of consciousness. Furthermore, PO loses the ability to downregulate its activity level in some forms of chronic pain, suggesting that regulatory mechanisms underlying the normal modulation of PO activity may be pathologically altered. However, the mechanisms responsible for regulating such a wide dynamic range of activity are unknown. Here, we test a series of hypotheses regarding the function of several presynaptic receptors on both GABAergic and glutamatergic afferents targeting PO in mouse, using acute slice electrophysiology. We found that presynaptic GABAB receptors are present on both GABAergic and glutamatergic terminals in PO, but only those on GABAergic terminals are tonically active. We also found that release from GABAergic terminals, but not glutamatergic terminals, is suppressed by cholinergic activation and that a subpopulation of GABAergic terminals is regulated by cannabinoids. Finally, we discovered the presence of tonic currents mediated by extrasynaptic GABAA receptors in PO that are heterogeneously distributed across the nucleus. Thus we demonstrate that multiple regulatory mechanisms concurrently exist in PO, and we propose that regulation of inhibition, rather than excitation, is the more consequential mechanism by which PO activity can be regulated.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The posterior nucleus of thalamus (PO) is a key sensorimotor structure, whose activity is tightly regulated by inhibition from several nuclei. Maladaptive plasticity in this inhibition leads to severe pathologies, including chronic pain. We reveal here, for the first time in PO, multiple regulatory mechanisms that modulate synaptic transmission within PO. These findings may lead to targeted therapies for chronic pain and other disorders.
Pattern of Traditional Medicine Utilization among HIV/AIDS Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy at a University Hospital in Northwestern Ethiopia: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Endale Gurmu Abyot , Teni Fitsum Sebsibe , Tadesse Wondmagegn Tamiru
Published: March 2017

The objective of this study was to assess traditional, complementary, and alternative medicine (TCAM) utilization pattern among HIV/AIDS patients on antiretroviral therapy at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Materials and Methods. Data on sociodemographic profile and clinical and TCAM utilization were collected using a structured, pretested questionnaire from April 01 to May 28, 2014, through interviews with patients. Data on CD4 count, HIV stage, and ART regimen were collected from patient records. Analysis was conducted descriptively using SPSS version 20. Results. Of the 300 participants, 43.7% reported using TCAM, with the largest proportion of them from religious institutions (churches/mosques) (41.22%), followed by home prepared (32.82%) and traditional healers (16.03%). The leading forms of TCAM used were spiritual and herbal therapies constituting 56.49% and 36.64% of the patients, respectively. The most frequently used herbal products included Nigella sativa (22.92%) and Moringa oleifera (20.83%). Most of the patients (73.30%) using TCAM reported improvement in their conditions. Conclusions. TCAM utilization among HIV/AIDS patients on ART was common and different sources and types were used alongside ART, with improvement reported by most. Further research is needed to identify CAM therapies which may be used as adjunct treatments among these patients.
Little Botany: A Mobile Game Utilizing Data Integration to Enhance Plant Science Education
Authors: Jamonnak Suphanut , Cheng En
Published: March 2017

Mobile devices are rapidly becoming the new medium of educational and social life for young people, and hence mobile educational games have become an important mechanism for learning. To help school-aged children learn about the fascinating world of plants, we present a mobile educational game called Little Botany, where players can create their own virtual gardens in any location on earth. One unique feature of Little Botany is that the game is built upon real-world data by leveraging data integration mechanism. The gardens created in Little Botany are augmented with real-world location data and real-time weather data. More specifically, Little Botany is using real-time weather data for the garden location to simulate how the weather affects plants growth. Little Botany players can learn to select what crops to plant, maintain their own garden, watch crops to grow, tend the crops on a daily basis, and harvest them. With this game, users can also learn plant structure and three chemical reactions.
Psoriatic Arthritis Is an Indicator of Significant Renal Damage in Patients with Psoriasis: An Observational and Epidemiological Study
Authors: Khan Abidullah , Haider Iqbal , Ayub Maimoona , Humayun Mohammad
Published: March 2017

Background. Psoriasis affects joints in around 30% of the patients. Recent studies have demonstrated an increased risk of essential hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and stroke in psoriatic patients. However, the prevalence of renal disease in patients with psoriasis has not been evaluated properly.Objectives. Objectives were to evaluate renal functions in patients with psoriasis and to assess any possible relationship of renal failure with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.Methods. In this cross-sectional study, 30 participants were recruited into the following three groups: group-A, psoriatic arthritis; group-B, psoriasis without arthritis; and group-C, healthy subjects. Renal function tests were performed for every participant of each group. The data was analyzed by using SPSS version 16. Chi-squared and one-way ANOVA tests were applied, considering aPvalue of less than 0.05 as a standard criterion.Results. Serum creatinine, urea, and phosphate were the highest in group-A, higher in group-B, and normal in group-C,P<0.05. Similarly, GFR was the lowest in group-A, lower in group-B, and normal in group-C. The difference in mean GFR values was statistically significant,F(2)=355,P<0.001. Moreover, proteinuria (gm/day) was seen in 96.7% of the patients with psoriatic arthritis, (M=1.18±0.55,P<0.05) against 10% of the psoriatic patients without arthritis (M=0.41±0.10,P<0.05).Conclusion. Derangement of renal function is more prevalent in psoriatic patients, especially in those with concomitant psoriatic arthritis. Therefore, each psoriatic patient must be routinely screened for an underlying renal failure.
Crosstalk between Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor and Glucocorticoid Receptor in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells
Authors: Jin Hong Lan , Choi Yujin , Jeong Kwang Won
Published: March 2017

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is known to mediate the cellular reaction involved in processing environmental contaminants and, ultimately, preventing accumulation of unfavorable extra lipids and proteins. Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) mediates the expression of genes associated with anti-inflammatory properties. Because AHR and GR are closely related in lipid metabolic dysregulation and inflammation, we speculate that AHR and GR may play a crucial role in AMD pathogenesis and focus on their crosstalk in human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19). However, how AHR and GR regulate each other’s signaling pathways is still poorly understood. In this research, we demonstrate that GR attenuates AHR-mediated gene expression by inhibition of nuclear translocation of AHR mediated by TCDD. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated that GR repress AHR recruitment and chromatin accessibility response to TCDD + Dex treatment leading to repression of AHR target genes. In contrast, AHR facilitates GR-mediated expression in ARPE-19. AHR increases GR recruitment on GRE of GR target genes. Coimmunoprecipitation assay revealed that AHR is associated with GR in ARPE-19 cells and the interaction is enhanced by the addition of TCDD and Dex. Taken together, these studies provide a molecular mechanism of crosstalk between AHR and GR in target gene expression in ARPE-19 cells.
An Appendiceal Carcinoid Tumor within an Amyand’s Hernia Mimicking an Incarcerated Inguinal Hernia
Authors: Christodoulidis Gregorios , Perivoliotis Konstantinos , Diamantis Alexandros , Dimas Dionysios , Spyridakis Michael , Tepetes Konstantinos
Published: March 2017

Introduction.We report the case of an appendiceal carcinoid tumor within an Amyand’s hernia, presenting as an incarcerated right inguinal hernia.Presentation of Case.A 52-year-old male presented in the emergency department due to a persistent right inguinal pain. Clinical examination revealed a tender right groin mass. Laboratory tests revealed leukocytosis and an increased serum CRP. Under the diagnosis of an incarcerated right inguinal hernia, an emergency operation was taken. Intraoperatively, an inflamed appendix and a part of the cecum were found in the hernia sac. The operation was completed with an appendectomy and a modified Bassini hernia repair. Histological examination revealed a carcinoid tumor, resulting in the performance of a right hemicolectomy.Discussion.Amyand’s hernia is estimated to account for 0.4% to 0.6% of all inguinal hernias. Coexistence of an Amyand’s hernia and a neoplasia is quite rare. Carcinoids are the most frequent tumors found in the appendix, with the size of the primary tumor to be considered the most important prognostic factor and the basis upon which the operative plan is decided.Conclusion.A malignancy of the appendix should always be in the differential diagnosis of a right inguinal mass, in order to provide optimum surgical treatment.
The Preferential Impairment of Pupil Constriction Stimulated by Blue Light in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes without Autonomic Neuropathy
Authors: Ishibashi Fukashi , Kojima Rie , Taniguchi Miki , Kosaka Aiko , Uetake Harumi , Tavakoli Mitra
Published: March 2017

The main aim of the present paper is to examine whether the pupillary light reflex (PLR) mediated by intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) is impaired in type 2 diabetic patients. One hundred and three diabetic patients without diabetic autonomic neuropathy (DAN) and 42 age-matched controls underwent a series of detailed neurological examinations. The patients were stratified into three groups: stage I, no neuropathy; stage II, asymptomatic neuropathy; stage III, symptomatic but without DAN. The PLR to 470 and 635 nm light at 20 cd/m2was recorded. Small fiber neuropathy was assessed by corneal confocal microscopy and quantifying corneal nerve fiber (CNF) morphology. The 470 nm light induced a stronger and faster PLR than did 635 nm light in all subjects. The PLR to both lights was impaired equally across all of the diabetic subgroups. The postillumination pupil response (PIPR) after 470 nm light offset at ≥1.7 sec was attenuated in diabetic patients without differences between subgroups. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that the PIPR mediated by ipRGCs in patients with stage II and stage III neuropathy was different from that of the control subjects. Clinical factors, nerve conduction velocity, and CNF measures were significantly correlated with PLR parameters with 470 nm light. PLR kinetics were more impaired by stimulation with blue light than with red light in diabetic patients without DAN.
Swallowing Disorders after Oral Cavity and Pharyngolaryngeal Surgery and Role of Imaging
Authors: Giannitto Caterina , Preda Lorenzo , Zurlo Valeria , Funicelli Luigi , Ansarin Mohssen , Di Pietro Salvatore , Bellomi Massimo
Published: March 2017

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is the sixth most common cancer diagnosed worldwide and the eighth most common cause of cancer death. Malignant tumors of the oral cavity, oropharynx, and larynx can be treated by surgical resection or radiotheraphy with or without chemotheraphy and have a profound impact on quality of life functions, including swallowing. When surgery is the chosen treatment modality, the patient may experience swallowing impairment in the oral and pharyngeal phases of deglutition. A videofluoroscopic study of swallow enables the morphodynamics of the pharyngeal-esophageal tract to be accurately examined in patients with prior surgery. These features allow an accurate tracking of the various phases of swallowing in real time, identifying the presence of functional disorders and of complications during the short- and long-term postoperative recovery. The role of imaging is fundamental for the therapist to plan rehabilitation. In this paper, the authors aim to describe the videofluoroscopic study of swallow protocol and related swallowing impairment findings in consideration of different types of surgery.
A Novel Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Supported on Hybrid Polymer/Metal Oxide as Catalysts for p-Chloronitrobenzene Hydrogenation
Authors: Campos Cristian H. , Urbano Bruno F. , Torres Cecilia C. , Alderete Joel A.
Published: March 2017

This contribution reports a novel preparation of gold nanoparticles on polymer/metal oxide hybrid materials (Au/P[VBTACl]-M metal: Al, Ti or Zr) and their use as heterogeneous catalysts in liquid phase hydrogenation of p-chloronitrobenzene. The support was prepared by in situ radical polymerization/sol gel process of (4-vinyl-benzyl)trimethylammonium chloride and 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate in conjunction with metal-alkoxides as metal oxide precursors. The supported catalyst was prepared by an ion exchange process using chloroauric acid (HAuCl4) as gold precursor. The support provided the appropriate environment to induce the spontaneous reduction and deposition of gold nanoparticles. The hybrid material was characterized. TEM and DRUV-vis results indicated that the gold forms spherical metallic nanoparticles and that their mean diameter increases in the sequence, Au/P[VBTACl]-Zr > Au/P[VBTACl]-Al > Au/P[VBTACl]-Ti. The reactivity of the Au catalysts toward the p-CNB hydrogenation reaction is attributed to the different particle size distributions of gold nanoparticles in the hybrid supports. The kinetic pseudo-first-order constant values for the catalysts in the hydrogenation reaction increases in the order, Au/P[VBTACl]-Al > Au/P[VBTACl]-Zr > Au/P[VBTACl]-Ti. The selectivity for all the catalytic systems was greater than 99% toward the chloroaniline target product. Finally the catalyst supported on the hybrid with Al as metal oxide could be reused at least four times without loss in activity or selectivity for the hydrogenation of p-CNB in ethanol as solvent.
Image Encryption Algorithm Based on a Novel Improper Fractional-Order Attractor and a Wavelet Function Map
Authors: Zhao Jian-feng , Wang Shu-ying , Zhang Li-tao , Wang Xiao-yan
Published: March 2017

This paper presents a three-dimensional autonomous chaotic system with high fraction dimension. It is noted that the nonlinear characteristic of the improper fractional-order chaos is interesting. Based on the continuous chaos and the discrete wavelet function map, an image encryption algorithm is put forward. The key space is formed by the initial state variables, parameters, and orders of the system. Every pixel value is included in secret key, so as to improve antiattack capability of the algorithm. The obtained simulation results and extensive security analyses demonstrate the high level of security of the algorithm and show its robustness against various types of attacks.
Chronic Pain in Children: A Look at the Referral Process to a Pediatric Pain Clinic
Authors: Cucchiaro Giovanni , Schwartz Jennifer , Hutchason Alec , Ornelas Beatriz
Published: March 2017

We reviewed the referral pattern of children with chronic pain to a specialized pediatric pain clinic. Data were obtained from referring physicians and medical records and during an interview with patients and their parents by physicians and a psychologist. We analyzed the following: referral diagnosis, demographics, duration of symptoms, number of physicians previously consulted, school attendance, sports activities, presence of psychological disorders, final team diagnosis, and outcomes. Children had been experiencing pain for 34±55 months. Patients had consulted on average 3 physicians in addition to their pediatrician. 32% of the patients had missed at least 10 days of school in a calendar year, and 47% had stopped playing sports. 15% had an operation because of pain that had been unsuccessful. The most common missed diagnosis was anxiety (25%) and depression (13%). 69% of the patients were back to school and/or playing sports within 4 months from our initial consultation. 32% of the patients did not make any progress during the follow-up period. The most common reasons for failure to improve were no compliance with the recommended treatments and poorly controlled major mood disorder. The time to refer children with chronic pain for specialized care could be extremely long causing significant social and psychological consequence.
Shot-Noise Limited Time-Encoded Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Karpf Sebastian , Eibl Matthias , Wieser Wolfgang , Klein Thomas , Huber Robert
Published: March 2017

Raman scattering, an inelastic scattering mechanism, provides information about molecular excitation energies and can be used to identify chemical compounds. Albeit being a powerful analysis tool, especially for label-free biomedical imaging with molecular contrast, it suffers from inherently low signal levels. This practical limitation can be overcome by nonlinear enhancement techniques like stimulated Raman scattering (SRS). In SRS, an additional light source stimulates the Raman scattering process. This can lead to orders of magnitude increase in signal levels and hence faster acquisition in biomedical imaging. However, achieving a broad spectral coverage in SRS is technically challenging and the signal is no longer background-free, as either stimulated Raman gain (SRG) or loss (SRL) is measured, turning a sensitivity limit into a dynamic range limit. Thus, the signal has to be isolated from the laser background light, requiring elaborate methods for minimizing detection noise. Here, we analyze the detection sensitivity of a shot-noise limited broadband stimulated time-encoded Raman (TICO-Raman) system in detail. In time-encoded Raman, a wavelength-swept Fourier domain mode locking (FDML) laser covers a broad range of Raman transition energies while allowing a dual-balanced detection for lowering the detection noise to the fundamental shot-noise limit.
Fourier-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Signal Analysis and Numerical Modeling
Authors: Kalkman J.
Published: March 2017

In this work the theory of the optical coherence tomography (OCT) signal after sampling, in dispersive media, with noise, and for a turbid medium is presented. The analytical theory is demonstrated with a one-dimensional numerical OCT model for (single) reflectors, dispersive media, and turbid media. For dispersive media the deterioration of the OCT axial resolution is quantified analytically and numerically. The OCT signal to noise ratio (SNR) is analyzed in the Fourier-domain and simulated with the numerical model. For an SNR based on the OCT intensity the conventional shot noise limited SNR is derived whereas for an SNR based on the OCT amplitude a 6.7 dB higher SNR is demonstrated. The OCT phase stability is derived in the Fourier-domain as 2SNR−1 and is validated using the numerical OCT model. The OCT single scattering model is simulated with the one-dimensional numerical model and applied to the simulation of an OCT image of a two-layered sample.
Molecular Pathways: Evaluating the Potential for B7-H4 as an Immunoregulatory Target
Authors: MacGregor Heather L. , Ohashi Pamela S.
Published: March 2017

With the clinical success of CTLA-4 and PD-1 blockade in treating malignancies, there is tremendous interest in finding new ways to augment antitumor responses by targeting other inhibitory molecules. In this review, we describe one such molecule. B7-H4, a member of the B7 family of immunoregulatory proteins, inhibits T cell proliferation and cytokine production through ligation of an unknown receptor expressed by activated T cells. Notably, B7-H4 protein expression is observed in a high proportion of patients' tumors across a wide variety of malignancies. This high expression by tumors in combination with its low or absent protein expression in normal tissues makes B7-H4 an attractive immunotherapeutic target. Preclinical investigation into B7-H4–specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, antibody-mediated blockade of B7-H4, and anti–B7-H4 drug conjugates has shown antitumor efficacy in mouse models. The first clinical trials have been completed to assess the safety and efficacy of a B7-H4 fusion protein in ameliorating rheumatoid arthritis. Clin Cancer Res; 23(12); 2934–41. ©2017 AACR.
Sessile Serrated Polyps and Colon Cancer Prevention
Authors: Rashtak Shahrooz , Rego Rafaela , Sweetser Seth R. , Sinicrope Frank A.
Published: March 2017

Evidence suggests that up to one fifth of colorectal carcinomas develop from serrated polyps, named for their pattern of colonic crypts, and include the sessile serrated adenoma/polyp (SSA/P) that has malignant potential. SSA/Ps are typically located in the proximal colon and have molecular features of hypermethylation of CpG islands in gene promoters and activating point mutations (V600E) in the BRAF oncogene. Both of these features are seen in sporadic colorectal carcinomas with microsatellite instability (MSI) which is potentially consistent with an origin of these cancers from precursor SSA/Ps. Dysplasia is detected in a subset of SSA/Ps with a high risk of progression to carcinoma. An uncommon serrated polyp is the traditional serrated adenoma that is typically found in the left colon, has a tubulovillous architecture, and frequently harbors mutant KRAS. To date, the epidemiology of these serrated lesions is poorly understood, and limited observational data suggest a potential chemopreventive benefit of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The current primary strategy to reduce the risk of colorectal carcinoma from serrated polyps is to enhance their detection at colonoscopy and to ensure their complete removal. This review provides insight into the epidemiologic, clinical, histopathologic, and molecular features of serrated polyps and includes data on their endoscopic detection and chemoprevention. Cancer Prev Res; 10(5); 270–8. ©2017 AACR.
Abandoning Prophylactic Abdominal Drainage after Hepatic Surgery: 10 Years of No-Drain Policy in an Enhanced Recovery after Surgery Environment
Authors: Wong-Lun-Hing Edgar M. , van Woerden Victor , Lodewick Toine M. , Bemelmans Marc H.A. , Olde Damink Steven W.M. , Dejong Cornelis H.C. , van Dam Ronald M.
Published: March 2017

Background: Routine prophylactic abdominal drainage after hepatic surgery is still being debated, as it may be unnecessary, possibly harmful, and uncomfortable for patients. This study evaluated the safety of a no-drain policy after liver resection within an Enhanced Recovery after Surgery (ERAS) programme. Methods: All hepatectomies performed without prophylactic drainage during 2005-2014 were included. Primary end points were resection-surface-related (RSR) morbidity, defined as the presence of postoperative biloma, hemorrhage or abscess, and reinterventions. Secondary end points were length of stay, total postoperative morbidity, the composite end point of liver surgery-specific complications, readmissions, and 90-day mortality. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors for RSR morbidity. A systematic search was performed to compare the results of this study to literature. Results: A total of 538 resections were included in the study. The RSR complication and reintervention rate was 15 and 12%, respectively. Major liver resection (≥3 segments) was an independent risk factor for the development of RSR morbidity (OR 3.01, 95% CI 1.61-5.62; p = 0.001) and need for RSR reintervention (OR 3.02, 95% CI 1.59-5.73; p = 0.001). Conclusion: RSR morbidity, mortality, and reintervention rates after liver surgery without prophylactic drainage in patients, treated within an ERAS programme, were comparable to previously published data. A no-drain policy after partial hepatectomy seems safe and feasible.
Influence of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV Inhibitor Sitagliptin on Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinases 1/2 Signaling in Rats with Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Ren Xiaojun , Liu Gaohong , Wang Yanhong , Zhang Wan , Xue Fuping , Li Rongshan , Yu Weimin
Published: March 2017

The protective effects of sitagliptin on the kidneys of rats with diabetic nephropathy (DN) and its influence on extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling were investigated. Male Wistar rats (n = 40) were randomly assigned to normal control, DN, low-dose sitagliptin intervention (ST1), or high-dose sitagliptin intervention (ST2) groups. Animals were euthanized after a 16-week treatment, and blood glucose (BG), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), urinary albumin excretion rate (AER), serum creatinine (Scr), creatinine clearance rate (Ccr), active glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) levels, kidney hypertrophy index, and renal pathohistology were determined. Immunohistochemical methods and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to detect protein and mRNA expression of podocalyxin, ERK1/2, GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). After 16 weeks, BG, AER, Scr, HbA1c and the kidney hypertrophy index were all significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in ST1 and ST2 groups, while Ccr and active GLP-1 levels were increased (p < 0.05), with changes more pronounced in ST2 (p < 0.05). Glomerular pathological lesions were also improved following sitagliptin treatment, especially in ST2. Immunohistochemical and real-time PCR revealed that protein and mRNA expression levels of podocalyxin and GLP-1R were increased significantly in ST1 and ST2, while expression of ERK1/2 and TGF-β was decreased (p < 0.05). Sitagliptin therefore delayed DN progression, possibly via the inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling and promotion of the interaction between GLP-1 and the GLP-1R.
Conservative Management of Large Traumatic Supratentorial Epidural Hematoma in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Champagne Pierre-Olivier , He Kevin Xiaho , Mercier Claude , Weil Alexander G. , Crevier Louis
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Conservative management of traumatic epidural hematomas is being recognized as a safe alternative to surgical treatment in asymptomatic children. There is still debate about the maximal size of epidural hematoma that should be tolerated before deciding for surgery. Methods: We report - through a retrospective cohort study from a single institution - a series of 16 conservatively managed traumatic epidural hematomas of more than 15 mm thickness. Results: 14 patients (88%) were successfully treated using conservative management. Two patients required surgery. These 2 patients had the only 2 documented high-velocity injury mechanisms. All patients had a Glasgow Outcome Scale of 5/5 on follow-up. Conclusion: Conservative management with close observation is a safe alternative even in this population of voluminous hematomas. Injury velocity may be a contributing factor for failure of conservative management in this population.
Relative Strengths and Regulation of Different Promoter-Associated Sequences for Various blaSHV Genes and Their Relationships to β-Lactam Resistance
Authors: Zhai Yao , Zhang Zhao , Wang Zhanwei , Chen Yusheng , Wang Qi , Lv Yuan , Yang Jingping , Zhao Tong , Guo Yatao , Gao Zhancheng
Published: March 2017

Aims: This work investigated the relative strengths of different blaSHV promoter-associated sequences and their regulation function in blaSHV expression and β-lactam resistance. Methods: Recombinant plasmids with the promoter-associated sequences (P-W, P-S, P-IS, and P-WPD), tac promoter, and combined fragments of promoter and blaSHV were separately constructed and transformed into Escherichia coli DH5α. The relative strengths of the promoters indicated by the intensities of green fluorescent protein and the mRNA expression levels of blaSHV were compared. The minimum inhibitory concentration and extended spectrum β-lactamase phenotypes were evaluated. Results: The relative strengths were ranked as P-tac > P-WPD > P-IS > P-S > P-W. The mRNA expression and β-lactam resistance levels of the different promoter-associated sequence groups were generally consistent with the strength rank, but the extent of gfp and blaSHV mRNA levels varied significantly in each group. The β-lactam resistance levels were inconsistent with the strength rank in certain blaSHV groups. In relation to the different promoter-associated sequences, blaSHV-ESBLs displayed significantly different change modes of β-lactam resistance compared with blaSHV-non-ESBLs. Conclusion: The mRNA expression and β-lactam resistance of the blaSHV showed consistencies and inconsistencies with the strengths of the promoter-associated sequences. The mechanisms accounting for these discrepancies need further investigation.
Extensive Multilevel Split Laminotomy for Debulking a Cervicothoracolumbar Nondysraphic Intramedullary Spinal-Cord Lipoma in a 2-Month-Old Infant
Authors: Nguyen Ha Son , Lew Sean
Published: March 2017

Introduction: Laminectomy is the traditional approach for posterior exposure of the spinal canal for tumor resection. Another technique is split laminotomy, which entails the division and retraction of the spinous processes and laminae to access the thecal sac. This technique has been employed for small-segment exposures, but not extensively explored for long-segment exposures. Case: A 2-month-old male presented with progressive right-leg plegia. MRI of the spine revealed a large, intramedullary spinal-cord lipoma extending from C6 to L5. Surgical debulking was recommended to prevent further neurological deterioration. The patient underwent a split laminotomy (C6 to L5) for the debulking of the spinal lipoma. Complete resection was not pursued; rather, the goal was complete decompression. Postoperatively, the patient exhibited good upper-extremity strength but minimal lower-extremity movement; the latter had progressively improved by the time he was discharged. The patient was extubated and tolerated oral intake. Urological evaluation noted a high-pressure bladder with neurogenic overactivity; he was started on intermittent catheterization with anticholinergic medication. He was placed in a custom brace with instructions to wear the brace for 20 h per day. At the 2-year follow-up, the patient exhibited a persistent left-foot contracture deformity and weakness requiring an orthosis. Serial films demonstrated no abnormal deformity at 11 months but notable progression of kyphosis and scoliosis at 30 months. Conclusion: For multilevel posterior exposure of the spinal canal, split laminotomy is an alternative that can provide adequate exposure for midline lesions without disrupting the paraspinal musculature. Longer-segment exposures, especially spanning the cervical to lumbar levels, may still elicit kyphosis and scoliosis. As such, long-term follow-up remains necessary.
Optoelectronic Plethysmography in Clinical Practice and Research: A Review
Authors: Massaroni Carlo , Carraro Elena , Vianello Andrea , Miccinilli Sandra , Morrone Michelangelo , Levai Irisz K. , Schena Emiliano , Saccomandi Paola , Sterzi Silvia , Dickinson John W. , Winter Samantha , Silvestri Sergio
Published: March 2017

Background: Optoelectronic plethysmography (OEP) is a non-invasive motion capture method to measure chest wall movements and estimate lung volumes. Objectives: To provide an overview of the clinical findings and research applications of OEP in the assessment of breathing mechanics across populations of healthy and diseased individuals. Methods: A bibliographic research was performed with the terms “opto-electronic plethysmography,” “optoelectronic plethysmography,” and “optoelectronic plethysmograph” in 50 digital library and bibliographic search databases resulting in the selection of 170 studies. Results: OEP has been extensively employed in studies looking at chest wall kinematics and volume changes in chest wall compartments in healthy subjects in relation to age, gender, weight, posture, and different physiological conditions. In infants, OEP has been demonstrated to be a tool to assess disease severity and the response to pharmacological interventions. In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, OEP has been used to test if patients can dynamically hyperinflate or deflate their lungs during exercise. In neuromuscular patients, respiratory muscle strength and chest kinematics have been analyzed. A widespread application of OEP is in tailoring post-operative pulmonary rehabilitation as well as in monitoring volume increases and muscle contributions during exercise. Conclusions: OEP is an accurate and validated method of measuring lung volumes and chest wall movements. OEP is an appropriate alternative method to monitor and analyze respiratory patterns in children, adults, and patients with respiratory diseases. OEP may be used in the future to contribute to improvements in the therapeutic strategies for respiratory conditions.
Transarterial (Chemo)Embolization for Liver Metastases in Patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Okuyama Hiroyuki , Ikeda Masafumi , Takahashi Hideaki , Ohno Izumi , Hashimoto Yusuke , Mitsunaga Shuichi , Sakamoto Yasunari , Kondo Shunsuke , Morizane Chigusa , Ueno Hideki , Kobayashi Tatsushi , Arai Yasuaki , Okusaka Takuji
Published: March 2017

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of transarterial (chemo)embolization [TA(C)E] for the control of liver metastasis in patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Methods: In this retrospective study, we enrolled 43 patients with metastatic NETs who had been treated with TA(C)E between December 1999 and June 2013 at the National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo or the National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa. We assessed tumor response, time to treatment failure (TTF), overall survival (OS), and frequency of adverse events in these patients, and attempted to identify predictors of TTF. Results: The site of the primary tumor was the pancreas in 29 patients (67%), the gastrointestinal tract in 11 patients (26%), and unknown in 3 patients (7%). Response rate, disease control rate, median TTF, and median OS were 56%, 96%, 24.7 months, and 86.1 months, respectively. No significant predictors of TTF could be identified. While 3 patients developed serious adverse events (including liver abscess in 2 patients and acute renal failure in 1 patient), the adverse events were well tolerated in all other patients. Conclusion: TA(C)E appears to be effective and feasible for controlling the liver metastases in patients with NETs.
Prevalence and Possible Risk Factors for Urinary Incontinence: A Cohort Study in the City of Izmir
Authors: Demir Omer , Sen Volkan , Irer Bora , Bozkurt Ozan , Esen Adil
Published: March 2017

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and possible risk factors of urinary incontinence (UI) among women aged 18 or older living in the city of Izmir, located in the Aegean coast of Turkey. Methods: A questionnaire and the validated International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) were filled by urologists (O.D., V.S., A.E., O.B., and B.I.) with face-to-face interview. The participants with urge UI (UUI) and stress UI (SUI) were compared in terms of risk factors, quality of life (QoL) scores, severity of incontinence, status of doctor consultation, and total ICIQ-SF scores. Results: A total of 719 women were included and the prevalence of UI was 50.3% in our study. The key risk factors for UUI were hypertension and diabetes mellitus; the key risk factors for SUI were hypertension, multiparity, body mass index, and lower education level. Average QoL (ICIQ-SF 5) score for UUI was worse than SUI (3.8 ± 2.5 vs. 3.3 ± 2.4; p = 0.042) and seeking treatment for UI was significantly higher in participants with UUI when compared to those with SUI (45.1 vs. 24%; p ≤ 0.001). Conclusions: Physicians should be aware that risk factors may differ according to specific UI subtypes when evaluating patients with UI.
comportamento e metabolismo respiratório da Lepidosiren paradoxa durante a vida aquática e em estivação
Authors: Pérez-Gonzales M. D. , Grinkraut C. N.
Published: March 2017

Lepidosiren paradoxa parece ser essencialmente carnívora. em cativeiro alimenta-se pouco e apresenta grande capacidade de resistência ao jejum. Os resultados da estivação de Lepidosiren em condições experimentais confirmam as observações feitas "in situ" por outros autores. O comportamento de Lepidosiren na estivação foi comparado com o do Protopterus. AS diferenças encontradas: período mais curto ou mais longo da estivação, formação ou não de um "cocoon", são adaptações às condições do ambiente.
O sistema neurossecretor caudal e a urófise (Urophysis medullae spinalis) de peixes tropicais
Authors: Minura Olga Martins
Published: March 2017

Este estudo refere-se à anatomia e histologia dos sistema neurossecretor caudal de quatro espécies de peixes de água doce da região neotrópica (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans, Paulicea lutkeni, Rhamdia sebae e Pimelodus clarias).
Fisioecologia de invertebrados marinhos: resistência à anoxia
Authors: Hiroki Kaoru
Published: March 2017

Animais comumente encontrados na zona entre-marés resistem diferentemente à deficiência de oxigênio dissolvido na água do mar, em condições experimentais. Dentro de um memso filo há grandes diferenças na resistência, como por exemplo, no caso de Anomalocardia brasiliana e Olivella verreauxii. As espécies mais resistentes foram Anomalocardia brasiliana e Neritina virginea. As espécies menos resistentes foram Olivella verreauxii e Echinaster brasiliensis.
Biologia da Tambaki-M'Boya - Lepidosiren paradoxa (Fitz, 1836) peixe, dipnóico: metabolismo da glicose
Authors: Sawaya Paulo , Shinomiya Naomi
Published: March 2017

Diversas observações e experiências sobre o comportamento de Tambak-M'Boya - Lepidosiren paradoxa (Fitz, 1836) - do Amazonas foram feitas. Os espécimens coletados nos arredores de Belém do Pará foram estudados no ambiente natural e, uma vez coletados, transportados para os aquários do Museu Goeldi e depois para São Paulo, onde ficaram em aquários de cerca de 30 litros de capacidade, arejados permanentemente. Diversos peixes foram induzidos à estivação, e para isto foram colocados em aquários de 50 litros de capacidade, com lama no fundo numa altura de 30 cm. A água foi retirada lentamente e o peixe imediatamente começou a enterrar-se. Na fase estival os animais permaneceram cerca de 100 dias. Para as experiências sobre o metabolismo da glicose, tanto dos peixes durante a vida aquática como dos estivados foram retirados periodicamente 2-3 ml de sangue com uma seringa puncionando-se diretamente o coração. Os de vida aquática apresentaram uma variação do teor de glicose sanguínea de 28,6 mg%. Quando o animal estivado retornava à vida aquática, a quantidade de glicose sanguínea passava de 42 mg% a 31,7 mg%. Os resultados das diversas observações e experiências são discutidos.
The physiology of digestion in Nemertean worms
Authors: Gibson Ray
Published: March 2017

Na maioria, os Nemertinos têm hábitos carnívoros ou necrófagos. A digestão do alimento realiza-se em duas fases distintas: a fase inicial é extracelular e ácida, e envolve endopeptidases secretadas pelas células gastrodérmicas. Depois do alimento ser transformado em partículas aproveitávies, o material, em parte digerido, é fagocitado, e a proteólise ácida continua por algum tempo intracelularmente. Segue-se a segunda fase, que é alcalina e abrange principalmente exopeptidases, mas também, em menor quantidade, lipases e esterases.
DNA e volume nuclear em Enteropneusta, Tunicata cephalochordata e suas implicações filogenéticas
Authors: Schreiber Giorgio , Cavenaghi Thereza M. C. M.
Published: March 2017

Foi estudado o teor em DNA per núcleo e o volume nuclear em espermatócitos de Salpa democratica, Balanoglossus gigas e Branchiostoma caribbaeum. Os valores de DNA encontrados expressos em picogramas colocam estas espécies al limite inferior da variação do DNA em vertebrados. Embora o Balanoglossus esteja em uma posição filogenética inferior à dos Tunicados, o teor de DNA desta espécie é maior do das salpas. O tamanho relevante desta espécie poderia  fazer supor uma situação múltipla do genoma, faltando, porém, totalmente indicações citogenéticas. A variação do valor da relação entre DNA e volume nuclear entre as espécies estudadas sugere uma possível significação taxonômica deste caráter quantitativo.
Evolutionary trends in thermal metabolic acclimation patterns in Northean and southern hemisphere crustaceans
Authors: Vernberg F. John , Vernberg W. B.
Published: March 2017

Estudos foram conduzidos em caranguejos ecopépodes pertencentes á mesma espécie ou espécies relacionadas dos hemisférios norte e sul, para determinar se estas espécies desenvolveram os mesmos tipos de resposta fisiológica em relação à temperatura nos extremos de sua distribuição geográfica nos dois hemisférios, ou se ao invés diferentes estratégias funcionais foram desenvolvidas.
Membrane properties of Ranvier nodes from South American toads frogs (Bufo marinus ictericus and Leptodactylus ocellatus)
Authors: Abbud Leila , Nonner W. , Stampfli R.
Published: March 2017

Estudaram-se propriedades eletrofisiológicas de membranas excitáveis em algusn anfíbios do Brasil. O presente trabalho refere-se aos resultados obtidos em nódulos de Ranvier de fibras motoras e sensoriais isoladas de Bufo marinus ictericus e Leptodactylus ocellatus. Empregou-se o método desenvolvido por Nonner (1969).
Arcturella sawayae, a new species of Isopoda crustacea from Southern Brazil
Authors: Moreira Plínio Soares
Published: March 2017

Uma espécie nova para a ciência de crustáceos isópode valvífero, Arcturella sawayae sp.n., é registrada no Brasil. foi coletada na algas Sargassum cymosum e Galaxaura sp., em Ubatuba e São Sebastião, litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo. A espécie distingue-se facilmente das demais pelo padrão de disposição dos tubérculos na cabeça, 4 primeiros pereónitos e pleostelson. Este é formado por um único segmento, sendo a fusão dos pleónitos indicada por depressões ao invés de por linhas de sutura. Considerando que os gêneros compondo a família Arcturidae estão pobremente diagnosticados, é fornecida uma diagnose parcial de Arcturella G. O. Sars 1899, numa tentativa de melhor identificar o gênero, e facilitar futuras revisões da família, altamente necessárias.
Food and feeding behavior of Arcturella sawayae Moreira, 1973 (Crustacea, Isopoda, Valvifera)
Authors: Moreira Plínio Soares
Published: March 2017

Jovens e fêmeas ovígeras de Arcturella sawayae Moreira, 1973, foram estudadas quanto ao hábito alimentar e comportamento relacionada à obtenção de alimento.
Estudo preliminar, principalmente do plâncton, das águas da Baía de Todos os Santos
Authors: Santos Juarez Jorge
Published: March 2017

O estudo preliminar das águas nos 800 Km2 de área da Baía de Todos os Santos (Bahia) inclui uma introdução contendo o levantamento da literatura sobre o plâncton coletado na região e adjacências, os métodos usados par aobter informações acerca de alguns dadosmeteorológicos, hidrológicos e hidrográficos, e sobre o fitoplâncton e zooplânctonda área.
Sobre a morfologia e anatomia da Casearia sylvestris Swartz
Authors: Absy Maria Lúcia , Scavone Orestes
Published: March 2017

O presente trabalho visou um melhor conhecimento botânico, particularmente anatômico, da Casearia sylvestris Swartz, fornecendo ainda algumas informações fitoquímicas sobre essa espécie medicinal, nativa da flora brasileira.
Sôbre morfologia e taxonomia das Geoplanidae
Authors: Froehlich C. G.
Published: March 2017

Este artigo não contém resumo.