bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disruption of cyclooxygenase type 2 exacerbates apoptosis and renal damage during obstructive nephropathy
Authors: Nilsson Line , Madsen Kirsten , Krag Søren , Frøkiær Jørgen , Jensen Boye L. , Nørregaard Rikke
Published: October 2015

Renal oxidative stress is increased in response to ureteral obstruction. In vitro, cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 activity contributes to protection against oxidants. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that COX-2 activity counters oxidative stress and apoptosis in an in vivo model of obstructive nephropathy. Renal oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes, and markers of tubular injury, tubular dilation, and apoptosis were investigated in COX-2 knockout (COX-2−/−) and wild-type (WT) mice subjected to 3 or 7 days of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). In a separate series, WT sham-operated and UUO mice were treated with a selective COX-2 inhibitor, parecoxib. COX-2 increased in response to UUO; the oxidative stress markers 4-hydroxynonenal and nitrotyrosine protein residues increased in kidney tissue with no genotype difference after UUO, whereas the antioxidant enzymes heme oxygenase-1 and SOD2 displayed higher levels in COX-2−/−mice. Tubular injury was aggravated by COX-2 deletion, as measured by tubular dilatation, an increase in kidney injury molecule-1, cortical caspase-3 content, and apoptosis index. In conclusion, COX-2 is necessary to protect against tubular injury and apoptosis after UUO but not necessary to protect against oxidative stress. COX-2 is not likely to directly regulate antioxidant enzymes heme oxygenase-1 and SOD in the kidney.
Discerning the role of mechanosensors in regulating proximal tubule function
Authors: Raghavan Venkatesan , Weisz Ora A.
Published: October 2015

All cells in the body experience external mechanical forces such as shear stress and stretch. These forces are sensed by specialized structures in the cell known as mechanosensors. Cells lining the proximal tubule (PT) of the kidney are continuously exposed to variations in flow rates of the glomerular ultrafiltrate, which manifest as changes in axial shear stress and radial stretch. Studies suggest that these cells respond acutely to variations in flow by modulating their ion transport and endocytic functions to maintain glomerulotubular balance. Conceptually, changes in the axial shear stress in the PT could be sensed by three known structures, namely, the microvilli, the glycocalyx, and primary cilia. The orthogonal component of the force produced by flow exhibits as radial stretch and can cause expansion of the tubule. Forces of stretch are transduced by integrins, by stretch-activated channels, and by cell-cell contacts. This review summarizes our current understanding of flow sensing in PT epithelia, discusses challenges in dissecting the role of individual flow sensors in the mechanosensitive responses, and identifies potential areas of opportunity for new study.
Exercise activates compensatory thermoregulatory reaction in rats: a modeling study
Authors: Yoo Yeonjoo , LaPradd Michelle , Kline Hannah , Zaretskaia Maria V. , Behrouzvaziri Abolhassan , Rusyniak Daniel E. , Molkov Yaroslav I. , Zaretsky Dmitry V.
Published: October 2015

The importance of exercise is increasingly emphasized for maintaining health. However, exercise itself can pose threats to health such as the development of exertional heat shock in warm environments. Therefore, it is important to understand how the thermoregulation system adjusts during exercise and how alterations of this can contribute to heat stroke. To explore this we measured the core body temperature of rats ( Tc) running for 15 min on a treadmill at various speeds in two ambient temperatures ( Ta = 25°C and 32°C). We assimilated the experimental data into a mathematical model that describes temperature changes in two compartments of the body, representing the muscles and the core. In our model the core body generates heat to maintain normal body temperature, and dissipates it into the environment. The muscles produce additional heat during exercise. According to the estimation of model parameters, at Ta = 25°C, the heat generation in the core was progressively reduced with the increase of the treadmill speed to compensate for a progressive increase in heat production by the muscles. This compensation was ineffective at Ta = 32°C, which resulted in an increased rate of heat accumulation with increasing speed, as opposed to the Ta = 25°C case. Interestingly, placing an animal on a treadmill increased heat production in the muscles even when the treadmill speed was zero. Quantitatively, this “ready-to-run” phenomenon accounted for over half of the heat generation in the muscles observed at maximal treadmill speed. We speculate that this anticipatory response utilizes stress-related circuitry.
Exercise-mediated IL-6 signaling occurs independent of inflammation and is amplified by training in mouse adipose tissue
Authors: Castellani Laura , Perry Christopher G. R. , Macpherson Rebecca E. K. , Root-McCaig Jared , Huber Jason S. , Arkell Alicia M. , Simpson Jeremy A. , Wright David C.
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether exercise-induced increases in adipose tissue interleukin 6 (IL-6) signaling occurred as part of a larger proinflammatory response to exercise and whether the induction of IL-6 signaling with acute exercise was altered in trained mice in parallel with changes in the IL-6 receptor complex. Sedentary and trained C57BL/6J mice were challenged with an acute bout of exercise. Adipose tissue and plasma were collected immediately and 4 h afterward and analyzed for changes in indices of IL-6 signaling, circulating IL-6, markers of adipose tissue inflammation, and expression/content of IL-6 receptor and glycoprotein 130 (gp130). In untrained mice, IL-6 mRNA increased immediately after exercise, and increases in indices of IL-6 signaling were increased 4 h after exercise in epididymal, but not inguinal adipose tissue. This occurred independent of increases in plasma IL-6 and alterations in markers of inflammation. When compared with untrained mice, in trained mice, acute exercise induced the expression of gp130 and IL-6 receptor alpha (IL-6Rα), and training increased the protein content of these. Acute exercise induced the expression, and training increased the protein content, of glycoprotein 130 and IL-6Rα and was associated with a more rapid increase in markers of IL-6 signaling in epididymal adipose tissue from trained compared with untrained mice. The ability of exogenous IL-6 to increase phosphorylation of STAT3 was similar between groups. Our findings demonstrate that acute exercise increases IL-6 signaling in a depot-dependent manner, likely through an autocrine/paracrine mechanism. This response is initiated more rapidly after exercise in trained mice, potentially as a result of increases in IL-6Rα and gp130.
The influence of reduced insulin sensitivity via short-term reductions in physical activity on cardiac baroreflex sensitivity during acute hyperglycemia
Authors: Holwerda S. W. , Reynolds L. J. , Restaino R. M. , Credeur D. P. , Leidy H. J. , Thyfault J. P. , Fadel P. J.
Published: October 2015

Reduced insulin sensitivity and impaired glycemic control are among the consequences of physical inactivity and have been associated with reduced cardiac baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). However, the effect of reduced insulin sensitivity and acute hyperglycemia following glucose consumption on cardiac BRS in young, healthy subjects has not been well characterized. We hypothesized that a reduction in insulin sensitivity via reductions in physical activity would reduce cardiac BRS at rest and following an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Nine recreationally active men (23 ± 1 yr; >10,000 steps/day) underwent 5 days of reduced daily physical activity (RA5) by refraining from planned exercise and reducing daily steps (<5,000 steps/day). Spontaneous cardiac BRS (sequence technique) was compared at rest and for 120 min following an OGTT at baseline and after RA5. A substudy ( n = 8) was also performed to independently investigate the influence of elevated insulin alone on cardiac BRS using a 120-min hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp. Insulin sensitivity (Matsuda index) was significantly reduced following RA5 (BL 9.2 ± 1.3 vs. RA5 6.4 ± 1.1, P < 0.001). Resting cardiac BRS was unaffected by RA5 and significantly reduced during the OGTT similarly at baseline and RA5 (baseline 0 min, 28 ± 4 vs. 120 min, 18 ± 4; RA5 0 min, 28 ± 4 vs. 120 min, 21 ± 3 ms/mmHg). Spontaneous cardiac BRS was also reduced during the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp ( P < 0.05). Collectively, these data demonstrate that acute elevations in plasma glucose and insulin can impair spontaneous cardiac BRS in young, healthy subjects, and that reductions in cardiac BRS following acute hyperglycemia are unaffected by reduced insulin sensitivity via short-term reductions in physical activity.
Application of Response Surface Methodology for Modeling of Postweld Heat Treatment Process in a Pressure Vessel Steel ASTM A516 Grade 70
Authors: Peasura Prachya
Published: October 2015

This research studied the application of the response surface methodology (RSM) and central composite design (CCD) experiment in mathematical model and optimizes postweld heat treatment (PWHT). The material of study is a pressure vessel steel ASTM A516 grade 70 that is used for gas metal arc welding. PWHT parameters examined in this study included PWHT temperatures and time. The resulting materials were examined using CCD experiment and the RSM to determine the resulting material tensile strength test, observed with optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The experimental results show that using a full quadratic model with the proposed mathematical model is . Tensile strength parameters of PWHT were optimized PWHT time of 5.00 hr and PWHT temperature of 645.75°C. The results show that the PWHT time is the dominant mechanism used to modify the tensile strength compared to the PWHT temperatures. This phenomenon could be explained by the fact that pearlite can contribute to higher tensile strength. Pearlite has an intensity, which results in increased material tensile strength. The research described here can be used as material data on PWHT parameters for an ASTM A516 grade 70 weld.
Knowledge-Based Shape Optimization of Morphing Wing for More Efficient Aircraft
Authors: De Gaspari Alessandro , Ricci Sergio
Published: October 2015

An optimization procedure for the shape design of morphing aircraft is presented. The process is coupled with a knowledge-based framework combining parametric geometry representation, multidisciplinary modelling, and genetic algorithm. The parameterization method exploits the implicit properties of the Bernstein polynomial least squares fitting to allow both local and global shape control. The framework is able to introduce morphing shape changes in a feasible way, taking into account the presence of structural parts, such as the wing-box, the physical behaviour of the morphing skins, and the effects that these modifications have on the aerodynamic performances. It inherits CAD capabilities of generating 3D deformed morphing shapes and it is able to automatically produce aerodynamic and structural models linked to the same parametric geometry. Dedicated crossover and mutation strategies are used to allow the parametric framework to be efficiently incorporated into the genetic algorithm. This procedure is applied to the shape design of Reference Aircraft (RA) and to the assessment of the potential benefits that morphing devices can bring in terms of aircraft performances. It is adopted for the design of a variable camber morphing wing to investigate the effect of conformal leading and trailing edge control surfaces. Results concerning four different morphing configurations are reported.
The Iron Status of Sickle Cell Anaemia Patients in Ilorin, North Central Nigeria
Authors: Sani Musa A. , Adewuyi James O. , Babatunde Abiola S. , Olawumi Hannah O. , Shittu Rasaki O.
Published: October 2015

Objectives. Sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is one of the commonest genetic disorders in the world. It is characterized by anaemia, periodic attacks of thrombotic pain, and chronic systemic organ damage. Recent studies have suggested that individuals with SCA especially from developing countries are more likely to be iron deficient rather than have iron overload. The study aims to determine the iron status of SCA patients in Ilorin, Nigeria.Methods. A cross-sectional study of 45 SCA patients in steady state and 45 non-SCA controls was undertaken. FBC, blood film, sFC, sTfR, and sTfR/log sFC index were done on all subjects.Results. The mean patients’ serum ferritin (589.33 ± 427.61 ng/mL) was significantly higher than the mean serum ferritin of the controls (184.53 ± 119.74 ng/mL). The mean serum transferrin receptor of the patients (4.24 ± 0.17 μg/mL) was higher than that of the controls (3.96 ± 0.17 μg/mL) (p=0.290). The mean serum transferrin receptor (sTfR)/log serum ferritin index of the patients (1.65 ± 0.27 μg/mL) was significantly lower than that of the control (1.82 ± 0.18 μg/mL) (p=0.031).Conclusion. Iron deficiency is uncommon in SCA patients and periodic monitoring of the haematological, biochemical, and clinical features for iron status in SCA patients is advised.
In Situ Monitoring of Dispersion Dynamics of Carbon Nanotubes during Sonication Using Electrical Conductivity Measurements
Authors: Ali Syed Sadiq , Shahabuddin Mohammed , Asif Mohammad
Published: October 2015

The main challenge in the fabrication of carbon nanotube‐ (CNT‐) based composite materials is the optimization of the sonication time in order to obtain homogenous and uniform dispersion of CNTs. Past studies mostly relied on postprocessing characterization techniques to address this issue. In the present, however, in situ monitoring of dispersion dynamics of CNTs in distilled water is carried out using instantaneous conductivity measurements. Using a computer controlled data acquisition system, the time evolution of the solution conductivity was carefully recorded. The data were then used to evaluate the intensity of turbulent fluctuations, which clearly highlighted the existence of three distinct sonication phases. During the first phase, the conductivity fluctuations initially increased attaining ultimately a maximum, thus indicating the occurrence of large agglomerates of CNTs. During the second phase of sonication, the solution conductivity showed a rather steep increase while fluctuations steadily declined. This phenomenon can be attributed to the breakdown of large CNT agglomerates, resulting in greater dispersion homogeneity of CNTs. During the third phase, after almost 650 kJ/L of sonication energy, the conductivity increase was almost negligible. The fluctuation intensity also remained constant during this phase signifying that the further sonication was no longer required.
Integrating UAVs into the Cloud Using the Concept of the Web of Things
Authors: Mahmoud Sara , Mohamed Nader , Al-Jaroodi Jameela
Published: October 2015

UAVs, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, have gained significant attention recently, due to the increasingly growing range of applications. Most UAVs use radio frequency transmission to communicate with the ground station to receive commands and send data. However, this model of communication restricts the user to being in specific locations and limits missions to narrow areas. This paper proposes a Cloud Computing (CC) integration where the UAVs become part of the cloud infrastructure and can be accessed ubiquitously. This concept is similar to the Internet of Things (IoT) where smart objects are connected to the Internet and are given unique identification. Moreover, to provide an appropriate way of communication, UAV resources are developed as web services. They provide their resources and services through a uniform interface using the RESTful HTTP architecture. This concept is relevant to the Web of Things (WoT) that provides smart objects with interfaces to be accessed through the World Wide Web (WWW). However, in UAVs, not only the web services are computational services but they are also physical elements affecting and affected by the real world environment.
Plumbagin Ameliorates CCl4-Induced Hepatic Fibrosis in Rats via the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Si , Chen Yi , Chen Bi , Cai Yi-jing , Zou Zhuo-lin , Wang Jin-guo , Lin Zhuo , Wang Xiao-dong , Fu Li-yun , Hu Yao-ren , Chen Yong-ping , Chen Da-zhi
Published: October 2015

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its signaling molecules, EGFreceptor (EGFR) and signal transducer and activator of transcription factor 3 (STAT3), have been considered to play a role in liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Plumbagin (PL) is an extracted component from the plant and has been used to treat different kinds of cancer. However, its role in regulation of EGFR and STAT3 during liver fibrosis has not been investigated. In this study, the effects of PL on the regulation of EGFR and STAT3 were investigated in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cells (HSC-T6). PL significantly attenuated liver injury and fibrosis in CCl4treated rats. At concentrations of 2 to 6 μM, PL did not induce significant cytotoxicity of HSC-T6 cells. Moreover, PL reduced phosphorylation of EGFR and STAT3 in both fibrotic liver and heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) treated HSC-T6 cells. Furthermore, PL reduced the expression ofα-SMA, EGFR, and STAT3 in both fibrotic liver and HB-EGF treated HSC-T6 cells. In conclusion, plumbagin could ameliorate the development of hepatic fibrosis through its downregulation of EGFR and STAT3 in the liver, especially in hepatic stellate cells.
Detached Anterior Horn of the Medial Meniscus Mimicking a Parameniscal Cyst
Authors: Fukuta Shoji , Tsutsui Takahiko , Matsuura Tetsuya , Suzue Naoto , Hamada Daisuke , Goto Tomohiro , Sairyo Koichi
Published: October 2015

We report a case of a detached anterior horn of the medial meniscus with anterior knee pain. Preoperative magnetic resonance images of the knee were initially interpreted as a parameniscal cyst. Arthroscopic examination revealed subluxation of the anterior horn of the medial meniscus due to detachment from its anterior tibial insertion. Arthroscopic fixation with a suture anchor was successful and the cystic lesion was no longer visible on postoperative images.
Phenotypic Variation in Fruit Morphology among Provenances ofSclerocarya birrea(A. Rich.) Hochst.
Authors: Mkwezalamba Idah , Munthali Chimuleke R. Y. , Missanjo Edward
Published: October 2015

Sclerocarya birrea(A. Rich.) Hochst. is a multipurpose fruit tree which is very useful in providing food security and meeting nutritional and economic needs. This study was conducted to assess eighteen provenances ofSclerocarya birreaplanted in Mangochi, Malawi. The trial was assessed for fruit traits at fifteen years of age. There were significant (P<0.001) variations among the provenances in number of fruits, fruit weight, pulp weight, seed weight, fruit length, and diameter. Magunde provenance from Mozambique had the highest mean number of fruits, 2196 ± 200. Mangochi and Moamba provenances from Malawi and Mozambique were the most outstanding in the other parameters measured attaining the mean fruit weight of 20.89 ± 0.25 g and 25.67 ± 0.67 g, pulp weight of 25.70 ± 0.08 g and 21.55 ± 0.83 g, seed weight of 4.81 ± 0.35 g and 4.12 ± 0.18 g, fruit length of 2.61 ± 0.14 cm and 2.33 ± 0.07 cm, and fruit diameter of 2.33 ± 0.15 cm and 1.97 ± 0.08 cm, respectively. There was no significant (P>0.05) correlation between number of fruits and the other fruit traits. However, there were significant (P<0.05) and strong positive relationships between fruit weight and pulp weight (r=0.987) and fruit length and diameter (r=0.775). This suggests that fruit weight can be used indirectly for selection of pulp. Further studies should investigate fruit taste quality of products from the fruits.
Empedobacter brevisBacteremia in a Patient Infected with HIV: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Bokhari Syed , Abbas Naeem , Singh Manisha , Cindrich Richard B. , Zeana Cosmina
Published: October 2015

Clinical disease caused byEmpedobacter brevis(E. brevis) is very rare. We report the first case ofE. brevisbacteremia in a patient with HIV and review the current literature. A 69-year-old man with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and CD4 count of 319 presented with chief complaints of black tarry stools, nausea and vomiting for 2 days. Physical exam was significant for abdominal pain on palpation with no rebound or guarding. His total leukocyte count was 32,000 cells/μL with 82% neutrophils and 9% bands. Emergent colonoscopy and endoscopic esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed esophageal candidiasis, a nonbleeding gastric ulcer, and diverticulosis. Blood cultures drawn on days 1, 2, and 3 of hospitalization grewE. brevis. Patient improved with intravenous antibiotics. This case is unusual, raising the possibility of gastrointestinal colonization as a source of the patient’s bacteremia. In conclusion,E. brevisis an emerging pathogen that can cause serious health care associated infections.
Dominating Role of Ionic Strength in the Sedimentation of Nano‐TiO2 in Aquatic Environments
Authors: He Guang’an , Chen Rui , Lu Shushen , Jiang Chengchun , Liu Hong , Wang Chuan
Published: October 2015

Various factors affect the sedimentation behavior of nanotitanium dioxide (n‐TiO2) in water. Accordingly, this study aimed to select the dominating factor. An index of sedimentation efficiency related to n‐TiO2 concentration was applied to precisely describe the n‐TiO2 sedimentation behavior. Ionic strength (IS), natural organic matter (NOM) content, and pH were evaluated in sedimentation experiments. An orthogonal experimental design was used to sequence the affecting ability of these factors. Furthermore, simulative sedimentation experiments were performed. The n‐TiO2 sedimentation behavior was only affected by pH and NOM content at low levels of IS. Moreover, divalent cations can efficiently influence the n‐TiO2 sedimentation behavior compared with monovalent cations at fixed IS. Seven different environmental water samples were also used to investigate the n‐TiO2 sedimentation behavior in aquatic environments. Results confirmed that IS, in which divalent cations may play an important role, was the dominating factor influencing the n‐TiO2 sedimentation behavior in aquatic environments.
Allelic Imbalance of mRNA Associated withα2-HS Glycoprotein (Fetuin-A) Polymorphism
Authors: Inaoka Yoshihiko , Osawa Motoki , Mukasa Nahoko , Miyashita Keiko , Satoh Fumiko , Kakimoto Yu
Published: October 2015

Alpha 2-HS glycoprotein (AHSG), also designated as fetuin-A, exhibits polymorphism in population genetics consisting of two major alleles ofAHSG∗1andAHSG∗2. The serum level in theAHSG∗1homozygote is significantly higher than that of theAHSG∗2homozygote. This study examined the molecular mechanism for thecis-regulatory expression. To quantitate allele-specific mRNA in intra-assays of the heterozygote, RT-PCR method employing primers that were incorporated to the two closely located SNPs was developed. The respective magnitudes ofAHSG∗1toAHSG∗2in the liver tissues and hepatic culture cells of PLC/PRF/5 were determined quantitatively as 2.5-fold and 6.2-fold. The mRNA expressional difference of two major alleles was observed, which is consistent with that in the serum level. The culture cells carried heterozygous genotypes in rs4917 and rs4918, but homozygous one in rs2248690. It was unlikely that the imbalance was derived from the SNP located in the promotor site. Furthermore, to investigate the effect of mRNA degradation, RNA synthesis in the cell culture was inhibited potently by the addition of actinomycin-D. No marked change was apparent between the two alleles. The results indicated that thecis-regulatory expressional difference is expected to occur at the level of transcription or splicing of mRNA.
An Unexpected Cause of Severe Hypokalemia
Authors: Caravaca-Fontan Fernando , Martinez-Saez Olga , Delgado-Yague Maria , Yerovi Estefania , Liaño Fernando
Published: October 2015

We describe an unusual case of severe hypokalemia with electrocardiographic changes, due to licorice consumption, in a 15-year-old female student with no previous medical history. Prompt replacement of potassium and cessation of licorice ingestion resulted in a favourable outcome. We also discuss the pathophysiology and diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of a detailed anamnesis to rule out an often forgotten cause of hypokalemia as the licorice poisoning.
HSP90 and HSP70: Implication in Inflammation Processes and Therapeutic Approaches for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Sevin Margaux , Girodon François , Garrido Carmen , de Thonel Aurélie
Published: October 2015

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are clonal stem cell disorders that lead to the excessive production of one or more blood cell lineages. It has been reported that, in most MPN, inflammatory cytokines are frequently increased, indicating that inflammation plays a crucial role in these disorders. Heat shock proteins (HSP) are induced in response to many stressful conditions from heat shock to hypoxia and inflammation. Besides their chaperone and cytoprotective functions, HSPs are key players during inflammation, hence the term “chaperokine.” Through their chaperone activity, HSP90, a stabilizer of many oncogenes (e.g., JAK2), and HSP70, a powerful antiapoptotic chaperone, tightly regulate Nuclear Factor‐kappa B signalling, a critical pathway in mediating inflammatory responses. In light of this potential, several HSP90 inhibitors have been generated as anticancer agents able to degrade oncogenes. As it turns out, however, these drugs are also potent inhibitors of the inflammatory response in various diseases. Given the chaperone potential of HSP70 and the fact that HSP90 inhibitors induce HSP70, interest in HSP70 inhibitors is also increasing. Here, we focus on the implication of HSP90 and HSP70 in inflammatory responses and on the emergence of new therapeutic approaches in MPN based on HSP inhibitors.
Taking a Measured Approach to Toxicity Data in Phase I Oncology Clinical Trials
Authors: Sharma Manish R. , Ratain Mark J.
Published: October 2015

The standard categorical system for assessing attribution of toxicity to study drug(s) in phase I trials is cumbersome and uninformative. Although a binary system (“related” vs. “unrelated”) would be sufficient to define maximum tolerated dose (MTD), a probability estimation would better support dose selection for randomized dose-ranging phase II trials. Clin Cancer Res; 22(3); 527–9. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by Eaton et al., p. 553
Clinical, Laboratory, and Imaging Characteristics of Transient Ischemic Attack Caused by Large Artery Lesions: A Comparison between Carotid and Intracranial Arteries
Authors: Uehara Toshiyuki , Ohara Tomoyuki , Toyoda Kazunori , Nagatsuka Kazuyuki , Minematsu Kazuo
Published: October 2015

Background/Aims: The aims of this study were to determine the differences in clinical characteristics and the risk of ischemic stroke between patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA) attributable to extracranial carotid and intracranial artery occlusive lesions. Methods: Among 445 patients admitted to our stroke care unit within 48 h of TIA onset between April 2008 and December 2013, 85 patients (63 men, mean age 69.4 years) with large artery occlusive lesions relevant to symptoms were included in this study. The primary endpoints were ischemic stroke at 2 and 90 days after TIA onset. Results: Twenty-eight patients had carotid artery occlusive lesions (extracranial group), and 57 patients had intracranial artery occlusive lesions (intracranial group). Patients in the intracranial group were significantly younger, had lower levels of fibrinogen, and were less likely to have occlusion when compared with those in the extracranial group. Eleven patients in the extracranial group and none in the intracranial group underwent revascularization procedures within 90 days of TIA onset. The 2-day risk (14.2 vs. 0%, p = 0.044) and the 90-day risk (17.1 vs. 0%, p = 0.020) of ischemic stroke after TIA onset were significantly higher in the intracranial group than in the extracranial group. Conclusions: Among our patients with TIA caused by large artery disease, patients with intracranial artery occlusive lesions were more frequent and were at higher risk of early ischemic stroke than those with extracranial carotid artery occlusive lesions. These data highlight the importance of prompt assessment of intracranial artery lesions in patients with TIA.
Role of Hyperthermia in Breast Cancer Locoregional Recurrence: A Review
Authors: Maluta Sergio , Kolff Merel Willemijn
Published: October 2015

In patients with locoregional recurrences of breast cancer not suitable for resection, subsequent local control is difficult to maintain in previously irradiated areas when reirradiation alone or reirradiation with chemotherapy is used. Due to the limited number of treatment options there is a high risk of subsequent failure and uncontrollable local disease. In this group of patients, local hyperthermia combined with radiotherapy increases the clinical response and local control, adding limited acute and late toxicity, as has been shown in randomized trials. Hyperthermia is an artificial elevation of tissue temperature (range 40-44°C for 30-60 min). If hyperthermia is applied shortly before or after radiation, the effect of radiation is enhanced by influencing intratumoral hypoxia and by inhibiting sublethal damage repair in the tumor. Moreover, hyperthermia combined with radiation reduces the total dose of radiation needed compared to radiation alone, of which a higher dose is needed to obtain the same effect. Few data are available on the combination of radiotherapy and hyperthermia with chemotherapy, although the results of trimodality treatment consisting of reirradiation and hyperthermia together with liposomal doxorubicin are promising. Therefore, this literature review was performed to provide more comprehensive data on the mechanism and use of hyperthermia in locoregional recurrence of breast cancer.
Determining the Incidence of Gynecoid Pelvis Using Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography in Nonpregnant Multiparous Women
Authors: Salk Ismail , Cetin Meral , Salk Sultan , Cetin Ali
Published: October 2015

Objectives: To determine the incidence of gynecoid pelvis by using classical criteria and measured parameters obtained from three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT) pelvimetry in nonpregnant multiparous women who delivered vaginally. Subjects and Methods: Our hospital's picture archiving and communication system was reviewed retrospectively. All adult women who had undergone CT examination with routine abdominal protocols were identified. In the pelvic inlet, midpelvis, and pelvic outlet, classical criteria and measured parameters, both alone and in combination, were used to determine the presence of gynecoid pelvis. Results: 3D CT pelvimetry was performed on 226 women aged 23-65 years without any history of cephalopelvic disproportion and who had at least one delivery of an average fetal size (>2,500 g). The median parity was 4, and the mean (±SD) birth weight was 3,700 ± 498 g. Compared to the classical criteria, measured parameters and their combined use with the classical criteria significantly reduced the frequency of gynecoid pelvis (51.3 and 47.8%, respectively, vs. 71.6%; p = 0.001); however, there was no significant difference between the measured parameters and their combined use with classical criteria with regard to the frequencies of gynecoid pelvis (p > 0.05). Conclusions: With the use of measured parameters of 3D CT pelvimetry, the incidence of gynecoid pelvis reduces to a more acceptable level (51.3%) in accordance with obstetric knowledge. Since there is no considerable decrease with the addition of classical criteria, 3D CT pelvimetry alone has merit for determining a woman's pelvic capacity for obstetric needs after the improvement and standardization of measured parameters.
Results from a Phase I Study of Lapatinib with Gemcitabine and Cisplatin in Advanced or Metastatic Bladder Cancer: EORTC Trial 30061
Authors: Cerbone Linda , Sternberg Cora N. , Sengeløv Lisa , Agerbaek Mads , Van Herpen Carla , Marreaud Sandrine , Collette Sandra , Zhang Jianping , Daugaard Gedske
Published: October 2015

Background/Objective: Lapatinib is a potent HER1 and HER2 inhibitor. Gemcitabine-cisplatin (GC) is a standard chemotherapy regimen for advanced/metastatic bladder cancer. This phase I study examined the safety of lapatinib in combination with GC in patients with bladder cancer. The primary aim was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of lapatinib in combination with GC. Methods: A 3 + 3 dose escalation protocol was used with lapatinib at 750, 1,000 and then 1,250 mg. It was dosed daily with gemcitabine (1,000 mg/m2 on days 1, 8 and 15) and cisplatin (70 mg/m2 on day 2) every 28 days. In all, 18 patients with a median age of 63 years (range 50-77) were included; 3/6, 3/5 and 6/7 patients received lapatinib at 750, 1,000 and 1,250 mg, combined with GC, in cohorts 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Results: No dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) were observed in cohort 1 or 2 (3 patients each); in cohort 3 (2 × 3 patients), 1 of the 6 patients presented DLTs (grade 4, treatment-related febrile neutropenia and renal failure). Twelve patients received 6 cycles. Conclusions: Lapatinib at 750-1,250 mg combined with GC appears safe and tolerable. The MTD of lapatinib combined with GC in bladder cancer was 1,250 mg.
Tinea Incognita following the Use of an Antipsoriatic Gel
Authors: Starace Michela , Alessandrini Aurora , Piraccini Bianca Maria
Published: October 2015

Tinea incognita is a dermatophyte infection of the skin whose clinical presentation has been modified by the misuse of steroids or, as has been described recently, calcineurin inhibitors. We report a case of pustular psoriasis treated with an antipsoriatic cream, composed of topical steroids and a vitamin D3 derivative, which gave rise to a tinea incognita. Our case underlines that clinical features of fungal infection can be modified by the increasing use of self-prescribed topical therapies, usually applied to treat incorrectly ‘self-diagnosed' diseases. Moreover, we suggest that a mycological examination should be performed in every atypical presentation of skin lesion, and to rule out tinea pedis, in any disease of the feet that requires topical application of steroids.
Inters_tícios – inter_tiscos
Authors: Pimentel Lucia
Published: October 2015

Os espaços possíveis para pesquisa em/sobre arte são, na maior parte das vezes, os espaços inter, não são os que se localizam pacificamente em algum ponto ou em alguma posição. O que se configura nessa condição é que, sendo os territórios da arte contextos movediços, é preciso considerar se os intervalos/ pequenos espaços entre esses territórios também o são. Se considerarmos que sim, como determinar o foco da pesquisa? Sendo os intervalos/pequenos espaços plenos de potencialidades, é necessário que as fontes de fruição, contextualização e experimento artístico sejam uma escolha em rede, que perpassam nós, rotas e vãos, sem caminhos exatos nem territórios precisos. Inter_relacionar arte, pesquisa e ensino em consonância com os movimentos e a intencionalidade de ação é uma tarefa complexa, que exige conhecimentos e entendimentos específicos, bem como pensar criativa e metaforicamente conceitos em rede que possuem nós, caminhos e vãos possíveis de convergências e potencialidades de expansão. A plêiade de possibilidades artísticas à disposição e as diferentes concepções do que seja arte - embora hoje o que se questione seja quando é arte – faz do artista contemporâneo um vagueador constante. Não só porque deve estar atento e tentar acompanhar tudo o que se passa no campo artístico, mas também porque é obrigado a mover-se constantemente em direção ao que el@ própri@ busca como expressão artística.
O “Mês das Crianças e dos Loucos”: um olhar sobre a exposição paulista de 1933
Authors: Amin Raquel Carneiro , Reily Lucia
Published: October 2015

O “Mês das Crianças e dos Loucos” foi uma exposição organizada por Flávio de Carvalho e Osório Cesar em 1933, em São Paulo, no Clube dos Artistas Modernos(CAM), associada a conferências das quais participaram artistas, médicos, intelectuais e educadores. Este estudo documental buscou desenhar a estrutura do evento e seu impacto cultural: como foi organizado, quais obras foram expostas, e quem dele participou. Investigaram-se os argumentos que justificaram o evento, o design da curadoria. A repercussão em jornais e periódicos mostrou que este encontro entre arte, educação e psicologia teve desdobramentos significativos na vida cultural de São Paulo.
Entrevista com Carlos Vergara
Authors: Marino Fabíola Salles
Published: October 2015

Entrevista com Carlos Vergara em 22 outubro de 2013.
Suspension and vibrating body: audiovisual experiences in luiz duVa
Authors: Mello Christine
Published: October 2015

The paper addresses some discussions that tangent the problematic of audiovisual in contemporary society. The study presents an analysis of the relationship between image and body in digital media from observation of the procedures employed in the video installation Retratos in motion: o beijo (2005) of the artist luiz duVa (São Paulo, 1965). The audiovisual experience is seen here in its tactile meanings as the place of contact, such as production of otherness. It depends mostly of crossings that promotes in the body of visitor. This study aims to verify how the sensations caused by it provide destabilizing strangeness, activating memories.
Art, Indigenous art, Borum / Krenak art: the intertwined paths to understanding the art
Authors: Portes Edileila Maria Leite
Published: October 2015

With the purpose of understanding and interpreting the drawings of the Borum Krenak ethnic group, this article proposes a discussion concerning the concepts given to art guided by the hegemony of the European and North-American Caucasian cultural codes and their own mutations by which these concepts have been gone through since the Modern Age. In order to do so, I bring to analysis the borum drawing chosen by an ethnographic journey through the Krenak territory, at Vale do Rio Doce, Minas Gerais, allied to a theoretical reflection based on the epistemological line based on Weber`s (1864–1920) comprehensive theory and on Geertz`s interpretative anthropology.
Origins of Buddhist forms
Authors: Chamas Fernando Carlos
Published: October 2015

The features of a Buddha’s image are the result of very ancient process that united three factors: the Eastern mythologies which are older that than Buddhism, its ability of adapting itself to local beliefs and its re-interpretations. After the emergence of the first statues representing the historical Buddha, the ideal of beauty concerning a being who attained the enlightenment was based on the ancient oriental “sciences”, predominantly mental and marked by subtle energies. While the Western Aesthetics was arguing about idealization in art through its rationality, disregarding a “pagan and superstitious East”, the Buddhist images were embodying mental states that the West only would regard in its modernity. Buddhist art conveys the ancestral and immutable legacy of mystical keys of consciousness and equilibrium.
Red Blood Cell Dysfunction Induced by High-Fat Diet
Authors: Unruh Dusten , Srinivasan Ramprasad , Benson Tyler , Haigh Stephen , Coyle Danielle , Batra Neil , Keil Ryan , Sturm Robert , Blanco Victor , Palascak Mary , Franco Robert S. , Tong Wilson , Chatterjee Tapan , Hui David Y. , Davidson W. Sean , Aronow Bruce J. , Kalfa Theodosia , Manka David , Peairs Abigail , Blomkalns Andra , Fulton David J. , Brittain Julia E. , Weintraub Neal L. , Bogdanov Vladimir Y.
Published: October 2015

Background—

High-fat diet (HFD) promotes endothelial dysfunction and proinflammatory monocyte activation, which contribute to atherosclerosis in obesity. We investigated whether HFD also induces the dysfunction of red blood cells (RBCs), which serve as a reservoir for chemokines via binding to Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines (DARC).

Methods and Results—

A 60% HFD for 12 weeks, which produced only minor changes in lipid profile in C57/BL6 mice, markedly augmented the levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 bound to RBCs, which in turn stimulated macrophage migration through an endothelial monolayer. Levels of RBC-bound KC were also increased by HFD. These effects of HFD were abolished in DARC
–/–
mice. In RBCs from HFD-fed wild-type and DARC
–/–
mice, levels of membrane cholesterol and phosphatidylserine externalization were increased, fostering RBC-macrophage inflammatory interactions and promoting macrophage phagocytosis in vitro. When labeled ex vivo and injected into wild-type mice, RBCs from HFD-fed mice exhibited ≈3-fold increase in splenic uptake. Finally, RBCs from HFD-fed mice induced increased macrophage adhesion to the endothelium when they were incubated with isolated aortic segments, indicating endothelial activation.

Conclusions—

RBC dysfunction, analogous to endothelial dysfunction, occurs early during diet-induced obesity and may serve as a mediator of atherosclerosis. These findings may have implications for the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in obesity, a worldwide epidemic.
Racial Disparities in Intravenous Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator Use Persist at Primary Stroke Centers
Authors: Aparicio Hugo J. , Carr Brendan G. , Kasner Scott E. , Kallan Michael J. , Albright Karen C. , Kleindorfer Dawn O. , Mullen Michael T.
Published: October 2015

Background

Primary stroke centers (
PSC
s) utilize more recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt‐
PA
) than non‐
PSC
s. The impact of
PSC
s on racial disparities in rt‐
PA
use is unknown.

Methods and Results

We used data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2004 to 2010, limited to states that publicly reported hospital identity and race. Hospitals certified as
PSC
s by The Joint Commission were identified. Adults with a diagnosis of ischemic stroke were analyzed. Rt‐
PA
use was defined by the International Classification of Diseases, 9
th
Revision procedure code 99.10. Discharges (304 152 patients) from 26 states met eligibility criteria, and of these 71.5% were white, 15.0% black, 7.9% Hispanic, and 5.6% other. Overall, 24.7% of white, 27.4% of black, 16.2% of Hispanic, and 29.8% of other patients presented to
PSC
s. A higher proportion received rt‐
PA
at
PSC
s than non‐
PSC
s in all race/ethnic groups (white 7.6% versus 2.6%, black 4.8% versus 2.0%, Hispanic 7.1% versus 2.4%, other 7.2% versus 2.5%, all
P
<0.001). In a multivariable model adjusting for year, age, sex, insurance, medical comorbidities, a diagnosis‐related group–based mortality risk indicator,
ZIP
code median income, and hospital characteristics, blacks were less likely to receive rt‐
PA
than whites at non‐
PSC
s (odds ratio=0.58, 95%
CI
0.50 to 0.67) and
PSC
s (odds ratio=0.63, 95%
CI
0.54 to 0.74) and Hispanics were less likely than whites to receive rt‐
PA
at
PSC
s (odds ratio=0.77, 95%
CI
: 0.63 to 0.95). In the fully adjusted model, interaction between race and presentation to a
PSC
for likelihood of receiving rt‐
PA
did not reach significance (
P
=0.98).

Conclusions

Racial disparities in intravenous rt‐
PA
use were not reduced by presentation to
PSC
s. Black patients were less likely to receive thrombolytic treatment than white patients at both non‐
PSC
s and
PSC
s. Hispanic patients were less likely to be seen at
PSC
s relative to white patients and were less likely to receive intravenous rt‐
PA
in the fully adjusted model.
Auricular Tensing for Indication of Intent on a Visual Selection Vector
Authors: Jesse Forrest Fabian , Miao Zhenjiang , Zhao Li , Chen Yao , Li Weidong
Published: October 2015

The usefulness of auricular muscle activation as a means of selection and activation of objects or locations is investigated. We find that in nearly half of those studied, use of this latent communication channel expands total expression channel capacity. A method is described that detects tension in auricular muscles, which is used to signify intent. This intent signal is then transmitted on the person's visual attention vector to select, activate, and control objects in an environment.
A new species of Tropidopedia from the Amazon rainforest, Brazil (Hymenoptera: Apidae), with a revised phylogenetic overview of the genus
Authors: MAHLMANN THIAGO , OLIVEIRA MARCIO L. DE
Published: October 2015

We describe a new species of the bee tribe Tapinotaspidini, Tropidopedia guaranae Mahlmann & Oliveira sp. n. from the Amazon rainforest, Amazonas, Brazil. We emend the phylogenetic tree of Aguiar & Melo (2007) to include the new species and comment upon some characters presented by those authors.
Pseudacteon notocaudatus and Pseudacteon obtusitus (Diptera: Phoridae), two new species of fire ant parasitoids from South America
Authors: PLOWES ROBERT M. , FOLGARAIT PATRICIA J. , GILBERT LAWRENCE E.
Published: October 2015

Ongoing studies in South America of phorid flies of the genus Pseudacteon Coquillett 1907 have revealed two further new species in this genus that are described here: P. obtusitus and P. notocaudatus. Both species are parasitoids of Solenopsis (F.) fire ants.
Description of new species of Phanodermopsis (Enoplida, Phanodermatidae) with key to genera of family Phanodermatidae and pictorial key to Phanodermopsis species
Authors: ZOGRAF JULIA K. , TREBUKHOVA YULIA A. , PAVLYUK OLGA N.
Published: October 2015

A new representative of the family Phanodermatidae, Phanodermopsis nana sp. n., is described. The new species is found in the Sea of Japan and characterized by its small body size, long anterior sensilla and short tail. The new species differs from P. ingrami in body length (~ 7000 µm in P. ingrami vs ~ 3000 µm in P. nana sp. n.). The De Man’s ratios (a, b, c) are smaller in P. nana sp. n. and the outer labial setae are longer (1 corresponding body diameter) than in P. ingrami (1/2 corresponding body diameter). The vulva is more posterior in P. ingrami (V% = 58–61%) than in P. nana sp. n. (V% = 51–58%). A dichotomous key to the 9 valid genera of Phanodermatidae and a pictorial key to species of Phanodermopsis are provided. The length of the spicules is proposed as the main differentiating feature for distinguishing Phanodermopsis and Crenopharynx species. Phanodermopsis longisetae Chitwood, 1936 which has extremely long spicules (5.2 anal body diameters) is transferred to the genus Crenopharynx.
A new libelluloid family from the Eocene Green River Formation (Colorado, USA) (Odonata, Anisoptera)
Authors: ZEIRI ASMA , NEL ANDRE , GARROUSTE ROMAIN
Published: October 2015

The new family Urolibellulidae is proposed for the new genus and species Urolibellula eocenica, based on a fossil dragonfly from the Eocene Green River Formation (USA). This new taxon is considered as the sister group of the extant Libellulidae. As the oldest libellulid dragonfly is dated from the Turonian, the Urolibellulidae should also be at least Late Cretaceous.
A new species of the caridean shrimp genus Lebbeus White, 1847 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Thoridae) from the southwestern Sea of Okhotsk, Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: MATSUZAKI KOJI , HIBINO MAI , KOMAI TOMOYUKI
Published: October 2015

A new species of the caridean shrimp genus Lebbeus White, 1847 (Thoridae), L. fujimotoi n. sp. is described and illustrated on the basis of material from the Nemuro Strait, southwestern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, Hokkaido, Japan, at depths of 500–800 m. The new species belongs in the informal species group characterized by the possession of an epipod only on the third maxilliped, containing only L. elegans Komai, Kohtsuka & Hayashi, 2004 among the 65 previously described specific taxa. The elongate and strongly upturned rostrum with more numerous ventral teeth (seven or eight versus one to four) and the presence of a posteroventral tooth on the fourth pleonal pleuron immediately distinguish the new species from L. elegans. Species of Lebbeus reported from the Sea of Okhotsk are briefly overviewed.