bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Backup Mechanisms Maintain PACAP/VIP-Induced Arterial Relaxations in Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide-Deficient Mice
Authors: Ivic Ivan , Fulop Balazs D. , Juhasz Tamas , Reglodi Dora , Toth Gabor , Hashimoto Hitoshi , Tamas Andrea , Koller Akos
Published: May 2017

Background: Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a multifunctional neuropeptide in the VIP/secretin/glucagon peptide superfamily. Two active forms, PACAP1-38 and PACAP1-27, act through G protein-coupled receptors, the PAC1 and VPAC1/2 receptors. Effects of PACAP include potent vasomotor activity. Vasomotor activity and organ-specific vasomotor effects of PACAP-deficient mice have not yet been investigated; thus, the assessment of its physiological importance in vasomotor functions is still missing. We hypothesized that backup mechanisms exist to maintain PACAP pathway activity in PACAP knockout (KO) mice. Thus, we investigated the vasomotor effects of exogenous vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and PACAP polypeptides in PACAP wild-type (WT) and PACAP-deficient (KO) male mice. Methods: Carotid and femoral arteries were isolated from 8- to 12-week-old male WT and PACAP-KO mice. Vasomotor responses were measured with isometric myography. Results: In the arteries of WT mice the peptides induced relaxations, which were significantly greater to PACAP1-38 than to PACAP1-27 and VIP. In KO mice, PACAP1-38 did not elicit relaxation, whereas PACAP1-27 and VIP elicited significantly greater relaxation in KO mice than in WT mice. The specific PAC1R and VPAC1R antagonist completely blocked the PACAP-induced relaxations. Conclusion: Our data suggest that in PACAP deficiency, backup mechanisms maintain arterial relaxations to polypeptides, indicating an important physiological role for the PACAP pathway in the regulation of vascular tone.
Fractured Penis: Not So Rare!
Authors: Tamhankar Ashwin S. , Pawar Prakash W. , Sawant Ajit S. , Kasat Gaurav V. , Savaliya Abhishek , Mundhe Shankar , Patil Sunil , Narwade Sayalee
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Penile fracture is a relatively common phenomenon. The main problem associated with this condition is the lack of patients' awareness on the urgency of the situation. This study reports the different modes of presentations and treatment results. Materials and Methods: We reviewed 21 cases of penile fracture over 5 years. Parameters were mode of injury, age group, time interval before presentation, management, site of injury, urethral involvement, results, complications and erectile function at follow-up. Results: The mean age of patients was 34 years, the mean time interval until presentation was 26 h. Cases involving the right corpus cavernosum comprised 57.14% and 42.85% were cases involving the left corpus cavernosum. Two patients had full circumferential urethral tear. Two patients developed wound infections and 2 patients developed mild penile curvature (<30°). These 4 patients had all presented late for treatment (>40 h). Conclusion: Urologists need to consider penile fracture a urological emergency and atypical presentations need to be considered when deciding on management.
Concurrent Treatment with Prolonged Exposure for Co-Occurring Full or Subthreshold Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Substance Use Disorders: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Ruglass Lesia M. , Lopez-Castro Teresa , Papini Santiago , Killeen Therese , Back Sudie E. , Hien Denise A.
Published: May 2017

Background: To test whether an integrated prolonged exposure (PE) approach could address posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms effectively in individuals with co-occurring substance use disorders (SUD), we compared concurrent treatment of PTSD and SUD using PE (COPE) to relapse prevention therapy (RPT) for SUD and an active monitoring control group (AMCG). Methods: We conducted a randomized 12-week trial with participants (n = 110; 64% males; 59% African Americans) who met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition, text revision criteria for full or subthreshold PTSD and SUD. Participants were randomly assigned to COPE (n = 39), RPT (n = 43), or AMCG (n = 28). Results: At the end-of-treatment, COPE and RPT demonstrated greater reduction in PTSD symptom severity relative to AMCG (COPE-AMCG = -34.06, p < 0.001; RPT-AMCG = -22.58, p = 0.002). Although the difference between COPE and RPT was not significant in the complete sample, the subset of participants with full (vs. subthreshold) PTSD demonstrated significantly greater reduction of PTSD severity in COPE relative to RPT. Both treatments were superior to AMCG in reducing the days of primary substance use (COPE-AMCG = -0.97, p = 0.01; RPT-AMCG = -2.07, p < 0.001). Relative to COPE, RPT showed significantly more improvement in SUD outcome at end-of-treatment (RPT-COPE = -1.10, p = 0.047). At 3-month follow-up, COPE and RPT maintained their treatment gains and were not significantly different in PTSD severity or days of primary substance use. Conclusion: COPE and RPT reduced PTSD and SUD severity in participants with PTSD + SUD. Findings suggest that among those with full PTSD, COPE improves PTSD symptoms more than a SUD-only treatment. The use of PE for PTSD was associated with significant decreases in PTSD symptoms without worsening of substance use.
Persistently Altered Metabolic Phenotype following Perinatal Excitotoxic Brain Injury
Authors: Blaise Benjamin J. , Schwendimann Leslie , Chhor Vibol , Degos Vincent , Hodson Mark P. , Dallmann Guido , Keller Matthias , Gressens Pierre , Fleiss Bobbi
Published: May 2017

Excitotoxicity plays a key role during insults to the developing brain such as neonatal encephalopathy, stroke, and encephalopathy of prematurity. Such insults affect many thousands of infants each year. Excitotoxicity causes frank lesions due to cell death and gliosis and disturbs normal developmental process, leading to deficits in learning, memory, and social integration that persist into adulthood. Understanding the underlying processes of the acute effects of excitotoxicity and its persistence during brain maturation provides an opportunity to identify mechanistic or diagnostic biomarkers, thus enabling and designing possible therapies. We applied mass spectrometry to provide metabolic profiles of brain tissue and plasma over time following an excitotoxic lesion (intracerebral ibotenate) to the neonatal (postnatal day 5) mouse brain. We found no differences between the plasma from the control (PBS-injected) and excitotoxic (ibotenate-injected) groups over time (on postnatal days 8, 9, 10, and 30). In the brain, we found that variations in amino acids (arginine, glutamine, phenylananine, and proline) and glycerophospholipids were sustaining acute and delayed (tertiary) responses to injury. In particular, the effect of the excitotoxic lesion on the normal profile of development was linked to alterations in a fingerprint of glycerophospolipids and amino acids. Specifically, we identified increases in the amino acids glutamine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, valine, and the sphingolipid SM C26:1, and decreases in the glycerophospholipids, i.e., the arachidonic acid-containing phosphatidylcholine (PC aa) C30:2 and the PC aa C32:3. This study demonstrates that metabolic profiling is a useful approach to identify acute and tertiary effects in an excitotoxic lesion model, and generating a short list of targets with future potential in the hunt for identification, stratification, and possibly therapy.
Genes Involved in Neurodevelopment, Neuroplasticity, and Bipolar Disorder: CACNA1C, CHRNA1, and MAPK1
Authors: Calabrò Marco , Mandelli Laura , Crisafulli Concetta , Sidoti Antonella , Jun Tae-Youn , Lee Soo-Jung , Han Changsu , Patkar Ashwin A. , Masand Prakash S. , Pae Chi-Un , Serretti Alessandro
Published: May 2017

Background: Bipolar disorder (BPD) is a common and severe mental disorder. The involvement of genetic factors in the pathophysiology of BPD is well known. In the present study, we tested the association of several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within 3 strong candidate genes (CACNA1C, CHRNA7, and MAPK1) with BPD. These genes are involved in monoamine-related pathways, as well as in dendrite development, neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and memory/learning. Methods: One hundred and thirty-two subjects diagnosed with BPD and 326 healthy controls of Korean ancestry were genotyped for 40 SNPs within CACNA1C, CHRNA17, and MAPK1. Distribution of alleles and block of haplotypes within each gene were compared in cases and controls. Interactions between variants in different loci were also tested. Results: Significant differences in the distribution of alleles between the cases and controls were detected for rs1016388 within CACNA1C, rs1514250, rs2337980, rs6494223, rs3826029 and rs4779565 within CHRNA7, and rs8136867 within MAPK1. Haplotype analyses also confirmed an involvement of variations within these genes in BPD. Finally, exploratory epistatic analyses demonstrated potential interactive effects, especially regarding variations in CACNA1C and CHRNA7. Limitations: Limited sample size and risk of false-positive findings. Discussion: Our data suggest a possible role of these 3 genes in BPD. Alterations of 1 or more common brain pathways (e.g., neurodevelopment and neuroplasticity, calcium signaling) may explain the obtained results.
Mutation Load of Multiple Ion Channel Gene Mutations in Brugada Syndrome
Authors: Gualandi Francesca , Zaraket Fatima , Malagù Michele , Parmeggiani Giulia , Trabanelli Cecilia , Fini Sergio , Dang Xiao , Wei Xiaoming , Fang Mingyan , Bertini Matteo , Ferrari Roberto , Ferlini Alessandra
Published: May 2017

Brugada syndrome is a primary arrhythmic syndrome that accounts for 20% of all sudden cardiac death cases in individuals with a structurally normal heart. Pathogenic variants associated with Brugada syndrome have been identified in over 19 genes, with SCN5A as a pivotal gene accounting for nearly 30% of cases. In contrast to other arrhythmogenic channelopathies (such as long QT syndrome), digenic inheritance has never been reported in Brugada syndrome. Exploring 66 cardiac genes using a new custom next-generation sequencing panel, we identified a double heterozygosity for pathogenic mutations in SCN5A and TRPM4 in a Brugada syndrome patient. The parents were heterozygous for each variation. This novel finding highlights the role of mutation load in Brugada syndrome and strongly suggests the adoption of a gene panel to obtain an accurate genetic diagnosis, which is mandatory for risk stratification, prevention, and therapy.
Efficacy of Hyaluronic Acid/Carboxymethyl Cellulose-Based Bioresorbable Membranes in Reducing Perihepatic Adhesion Formation: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shimizu Atsushi , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Masuda Koichi , Omichi Kiyohiko , Miyata Akinori , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: May 2017

Background: Perihepatic adhesions induced by hepatectomy make the subsequent repeat hepatectomy technically demanding. The aim of this study was to verify the effect of hyaluronic acid/carboxymethyl cellulose-based bioresorbable membrane (HA membrane) in preventing posthepatectomy adhesion formation by focusing on the ease of the adhesiolysis in subsequent hepatectomy for recurrent tumors. Methods: A total of 201 patients who underwent hepatectomy using HA membrane were prospectively followed-up for 3 years. Thirty of the 201 patients underwent a repeat hepatectomy for recurrence. The operative data of 85 cases of repeat hepatectomy, the primary hepatectomy of which had been performed without the use of HA membrane, served as the historical control data. The primary endpoint was the time interval between the skin incision and the start of hepatic parenchymal transection (the preparation time) including adhesiolysis. Secondary endpoints were blood loss during the operation, incidence of postoperative complications, and the biochemical data. Results: The median preparation time (183 vs. 228 min; p = 0.027) and total operation time (374 vs. 439 min; p = 0.041) were significantly shorter in the HA membrane group than in the control group. Conclusion: Use of HA membranes during hepatectomy enabled significant shortening of the adhesiolysis time during the sequential hepatectomy performed for recurrent tumors.
Centromere Repositioning in Cattle (Bos taurus) Chromosome 17
Authors: De Lorenzi Lisa , Iannuzzi Alessandra , Rossi Elena , Bonacina Stefania , Parma Pietro
Published: May 2017

Eukaryotic organisms have developed a structure, called centromere, able to preserve the integrity of the genome during cell division. A young bull from the Marchigiana breed, with a normal external phenotype, underwent routine cytogenetic analysis to enter the reproduction center. All metaphases analyzed showed an unusual biarmed chromosome of medium size despite a diploid set of chromosomes (2n = 60,XY). FISH analysis excluded a pericentric inversion or a reciprocal translocation, but highlighted a repositioning of the centromere in BTA17. The satellite DNA was still in an acrocentric position. The telomeres were normally present. The primary constriction on the abnormal chromosome was C-band negative. Finally, the absence of a large genomic deletion in the BTA17 pericentromeric region was demonstrated by both array-CGH analysis and SNP array. To our knowledge, this is the first case of centromere repositioning reported in cattle.
Improvement of Anal Function by Adipose-Derived Stem Cell Sheets
Authors: Inoue Yusuke , Fujita Fumihiko , Yamaguchi Izumi , Kinoe Hiroko , Kawahara Daisuke , Sakai Yusuke , Kuroki Tamotsu , Eguchi Susumu
Published: May 2017

Aim: One of the most troublesome complications of anal preserving surgery is anal sphincter dysfunction. The aim of this study was to evaluate functional recovery after implantation of adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) sheets, novel biotechnology, for an anal sphincter resection animal model. Methods: Eighteen female Sprague-Dawley rats underwent removal of the nearest half of the internal and external anal sphincter muscle. Nine rats received transplantation with ADSC sheets to the resected area while the remaining rats received no transplantation. The rats were evaluated for the anal function by measuring their resting pressure before surgery and on postoperative days 1, 7, 14, 28, and 56. In addition, the rats were examined for the presence of smooth muscle and also to determine its origin. Results: The improvement of the anal pressure was significantly greater in the ADSC sheet transplantation group compared with the control group. Histologically, at the vicinity of the remaining smooth muscle, reproduction of smooth muscle was detected. Using in fluorescence in situ hybridization, the cells were shown to be from the recipient. Conclusion: Regenerative therapy using ADSC sheet has the potential to recover anal sphincter dysfunction due to anorectal surgery.
Associations of Usual 24-Hour Sodium and Potassium Intakes with Blood Pressure and Risk of Hypertension among Adults in China’s Shandong and Jiangsu Provinces
Authors: Xu Jianwei , Chen Xiaorong , Ge Zeng , Liang Hao , Yan Liuxia , Guo Xiaolei , Zhang Yongqing , Wang Linhong , Ma Jixiang
Published: May 2017

Background/Aims: High sodium intake and low intake of potassium can increase blood pressure (BP) and risk of developing hypertension. Few studies have examined the association between 24-h urinary sodium and potassium excretion and BP or risk of hypertension in China, and most used only a single 24-h urinary sample. Methods: We analyzed data on 2281 participants aged 18-69 years by using two 24-h urinary sodium and potassium excretions from the supplemental baseline survey of the Shandong-Ministry of Health Action on Salt Reduction and Hypertension (SMASH) project. We used measurement error models to estimate usual intakes, multivariable linear regression to assess their association with B P, and logistic regression to estimate the risk of hypertension. Results: The average usual intakes of sodium and potassium, and the mean sodium-potassium ratio, were 166.9 mmol/day, 25.3 mmol/day, and 6.8, respectively. All three measures were significantly associated with systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP), with an increase of 1.39 mmHg (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.44─2.34) in SBP and 0.94 mmHg (95% CI 0.34─1.55) in DBP for a 1-standard deviation (SD) (25.6mmol/day) increase in sodium intake, a decrease of 1.42 mmHg (95% CI -2.37─ -0.47) in SBP and 0.91 mmHg (95% CI -1.52─ -0.30) in DBP for a 1-SD (3.4 mmol/day) increase in potassium intake, and an increase of 0.97 mmHg (95% CI 0.36─1.58) in SBP and of 0.65 mmHg (95% CI 0.26─1.04) in DBP per unit increase in the sodium-to-potassium ratio. The adjusted odds ratios comparing the risk of hypertension among adults in the highest with those in the lowest quintile differ significantly for potassium (0.51; 95% CI 0.29─0.88) and sodium-to-potassium ratio (1.40; 95% CI 1.01─1.94). Conclusions: Our results suggested that higher sodium and lower potassium intakes are associated with increased BP and risk of hypertension in the Shandong and Jiangsu adults.
Anthocyanins Prevent Colorectal Cancer Development in a Mouse Model
Authors: Lippert Elisabeth , Ruemmele Petra , Obermeier Florian , Goelder Stefan , Kunst Claudia , Rogler Gerhard , Dunger Nadja , Messmann Helmut , Hartmann Arndt , Endlicher Esther
Published: May 2017

Background: Colorectal cancer is the main leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Present data suggest that plant-derived anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive properties. This study was aimed at evaluating the effect of an anthocyanin-rich extract from bilberries on colorectal tumour development and growth in the administration of azoxymethan (AOM)/dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) mouse model. Methods: Colonic carcinogenesis was induced by AOM and DSS 3 or 5%, respectively, in 50 female Balb/c mice. Mice received either normal food (controls) or a diet containing either 10 or 1% anthocyanin-rich bilberry extract. Colonoscopy took place at week 4 and 9 after initiation of carcinogenesis. After termination at week 9, colon samples were analysed macroscopically and microscopically. Results: Mice receiving 10% anthocyanins showed significantly (p < 0.004) less reduced colon length (12.1 cm [8.5-14.4 cm]) as compared to controls (11.2 cm [9.8-12.3]) indicating less inflammation. Mice fed with 10% anthocyanin-rich extract revealed significantly less mean tumour numbers (n = 1.2) compared to control (n = 14) and anthocyanin 1% treated mice (n = 10.6, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Anthocyanins prevented the formation and growth of colorectal cancer in AOM/DSS-treated Balb/c mice. Further studies should investigate the mechanisms of how anthocyanins influence the development of colorectal cancer.
Effects of CYP2C19 Variants on Fluoxetine Metabolism in vitro
Authors: Fang Ping , He Jia-Yang , Han Ai-Xia , Lan Tian , Dai Da-Peng , Cai Jian-Ping , Hu Guo-Xin
Published: May 2017

Aims: CYP2C19 is an important member of the cytochrome P450 enzyme superfamily. We recently identified 31 CYP2C19 alleles in the Han Chinese population. The aim of this study was to assess the catalytic activities of these allelic isoforms and their effects on the metabolism of fluoxetine in vitro. Methods: The wild-type and 30 CYP2C19 variants were expressed in insect cells and each variant was characterized using fluoxetine as the substrate. Reactions were performed at 37°C with 20-1,000 µmol/L substrate for 30 min. By using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to detect the products, the kinetic parameters Km, Vmax, and intrinsic clearance (Vmax/Km) of norfluoxetine were determined. Results: Among the CYP2C19 variants tested, T130M showed similar intrinsic clearance (Vmax/Km) values with CYP2C19*1, while the intrinsic clearance values of other variants were significantly decreased (from 9.56 to 77.77%). In addition, CYP2C19*3 and *35FS could not be detected because they have no detectable enzyme activity. Conclusion: In China, the assessment of CYP2C19 variants in vitro offers valuable information relevant to the personalized medicine for CYP2C19-metabolized drug.
Acceleration of Apoptosis by Extracellular Basic pH in a 3D Human Skin Equivalent System
Authors: Park Gunhyuk , Oh Dal-Seok , Kim Yong-ung , Park Moon Ki
Published: May 2017

Previously, we have shown that extracellular basic pH plays a significant role in both the direct and indirect regulation of cellular processes in a wound; this in turn affects the wound-healing process. Several studies have demonstrated the importance of apoptosis modulation in the wound-healing process, especially in removing inflammatory cells and in inhibiting scar formation. However, the effects of extracellular basic pH on wound healing-related skin damage are yet to be examined. Therefore, we investigated the induction of accelerated apoptosis by extracellular basic pH in skin. Apoptosis-related protein levels were measured using an array kit, target protein expression levels were detected by immunostaining, lactate dehydrogenase was analyzed spectrophotometrically, and Annexin V levels were measured by fluorescence staining. Basic pH (8.40) strongly upregulated extrinsic apoptosis proteins (Fas, high temperature requirement A, and p21) and slightly upregulated intrinsic apoptosis proteins (cytochrome c, B-cell lymphoma 2 [Bcl-2], Bcl-2-associated death promoter, and Bcl-2-like protein 4) in a 3D human skin equivalent system. Moreover, basic pH (8.40) induced heat shock protein (HSP) 60 and 70. In addition, basic pH-exposed Fas- and HSP60-knockdown cells showed significantly decreased levels of apoptosis. Taken together, these results indicate that extracellular basic pH increases early-stage apoptosis through Fas/FasL via modulation of HSP60 and HSP70.
Different Successful Management Strategies for Obstructing Renal Parapelvic Cysts
Authors: Rossi Sabrina H. , Koo Brendan , Riddick Antony , Shah Nimish , Stewart Grant D.
Published: May 2017

Parapelvic cysts originate in the renal parenchyma and extend into the renal sinus. A series of 3 patients with symptomatic obstructing parapelvic cysts is described, 2 with acute presentations, and 1 with chronic symptoms. In 2 of the 3 cases, there was a significant delay in establishing a diagnosis. Although one individual was successfully managed by image-guided cyst aspiration, the second patient required repeated aspiration due to cyst re-accumulation. A high index of clinical suspicion and a combination of imaging modalities, including serial ultrasound, excretory-phase CT, and MAG3 renogram, are necessary to establish the diagnosis and monitor response to treatment.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activation in Chronic Kidney Disease: Role of Uremic Toxins
Authors: Brito Jessyca S. , Borges Natália A. , Esgalhado Marta , Magliano D''Angelo C. , Soulage Christophe O. , Mafra Denise
Published: May 2017

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor involved in the expression of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes, inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules. Uremic toxins such as indoxyl sulfate and indole acetic acid are derived from tryptophan fermentation by gut microbiota; they accumulate in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on haemodialysis and have recently emerged as potent ligands of AhR. Therefore, AhR can serve as a mediator in inflammation and cardiovascular diseases in these patients. This review discusses current data that support a link between AhR activation and uremic toxins from gut microbiota in CKD.
Let-7a Inhibits T-Cell Proliferation and IFN-γ Secretion by Down-Regulating STAT3 Expression in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Hu Xiao-Ping , Xie Qian , Chen Chao-Feng , Zhang Wei , Yu Bo
Published: May 2017

Objective: This study aimed to explore the effects of STAT3 targeting by let-7a on T-cell proliferation and IFN-γ secretion in psoriasis. Methods: From January 2013 to January 2015, 40 patients with psoriasis (psoriasis group) and 38 volunteers undergoing plastic surgery (control group) were enrolled in this study. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the correlation between let-7a and STAT3 expression. T-cells were isolated and subjected to different transfection methods. A dual luciferase reporter assay was carried out to confirm STAT3 as a target gene of let-7a. Let-7a, STAT3 and IFN-γ mRNA expression was detected by quantitative real-time fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and pSTAT3 protein levels were determined by Western blot. T-cell proliferation was evaluated with a cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Results: The level of STAT3 mRNA and pSTAT3 was higher, but let-7a expression was lower in the psoriasis group than the control group. Pearson correlation analysis indicated that STAT3 expression was negatively correlated with let-7a expression. T-cells transfected with inhibitors exhibited greater IFN-γ mRNA expression and T-cell proliferation than transfected T-cells and T-cells transfected with a non-sense sequence, while T-cells transfected with let-7a mimics exhibited lower IFN-γ mRNA expression and T-cell proliferation than transfected T-cells and T-cells transfected with a non-sense sequence. This suggested that siRNA-STAT3 could reverse the increase in IFN-y mRNA expression and T-cell proliferation induced by let-7a inhibitors. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that let-7a inhibits T-cell proliferation and IFN-γ secretion by down-regulating STAT3 in psoriasis.
Accuracy of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumour Grading by Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration: Analysis of a Large Cohort and Perspectives for Improvement
Authors: Boutsen Laure , Jouret-Mourin Anne , Borbath Ivan , van Maanen Aline , Weynand Birgit
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Since the WHO Classification of Tumours of the Digestive System has been published in 2010, resected pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (pNETs) are graded as grade 1 (G1), grade 2 (G2) or grade 3 (G3) using the Ki67 labelling index (Ki67-LI). Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is often used for diagnosis, but few studies have assessed its value for grading. Aims: The aims of this study were to compare the Ki67-LI obtained by cytological grading (cG) with that obtained by histological grading (hG) and to assess (1) the influence of tumour size and the number of counted cells on FNA grading as well as (2) the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival based on cG. Materials and Methods: EUS-FNA was performed for 102 pNETs (57 resected). cG (200 cells counted) was done on all FNAs. For 29 FNAs, >2,000 cells were counted (14 resected). A comparison was made between hG and cG for the 57 resected patients. Patients were followed up until June 2016. Results: cG was consistent with hG in 39 of 57 patients with a concordance rate of 72% using a Ki67-LI cut-off of 5% for G1/G2. For Ki67-LI absolute values, the correlation was r = 0.443 and increased to r = 0.824 (p < 0.001) when only FNAs with >2,000 cells were counted. Twenty-one of 22 pNETs <2 cm had the same grading on cG and hG, whereas grading was discordant for 15 of 16 pNETs >2 cm. Thirty-eight patients died after 70.5 months of follow-up. OS for the whole cohort was 235 months and differed between cG1 (235 months), cG2 (36.3 months) and cG3 (10.9 months). Conclusion: cG of pNETs is more accurate when tumours measure <2 cm and more cells are counted on FNA. Discrepancies are seen between G2 tumours which are often considered G1 on FNA due to tumour heterogeneity. EUS-FNA is valuable to distinguish between patients with good (cG1) and poor (cG3) prognosis.
Cervical Esophagotomy for Removal of an Ingested Clam Shell: A Very Uncommon Foreign Body Ingestion
Authors: Virgilio Edoardo , Giuliani Diletta , Nigro Alice , Gasparrini Marcello , Balducci Genoveffa
Published: May 2017

Objective: To report the removal of an ingested clam shell that was firmly impacted in the esophagus. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 77-year-old man presented at our hospital with acute dysphagia after eating a seafood risotto. An urgent dedicated examination (noncontrast helical multislice computed tomography scan of the neck and flexible esophagoscopy) detected a clam shell lodged in the upper esophagus. After several unsuccessful endoscopic attempts, a lifesaving cervical esophagotomy was performed and the foreign body was retrieved. Conclusion: This patient who ingested clam shell recovered well following the retrieval of the foreign body by performing a lifesaving cervical esophagotomy.
The Role of teacher in medical student self-directed learning process
Authors: A Tjakradidjaja Francisca , Prabandari Yayi Suryo , Prihatiningsih Titi Savitri , Harsono Harsono
Published: May 2017

Self-directed learning (SDL) is essential in medical education. The rapid development of medical science and the expansion of health problems need a physician who can meet that challenges. A physician must have lifelong learning ability. SDL is one of the important requirements for lifelong learning ability. In SDL, learners are the controller of learning and learners have the freedom to learn according to their needs. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the role of the teacher in the SDL process, particularly in medical education. This study used a qualitative exploratory design. Twelve teachers and 23 medical students were selected by purposive sampling. There were seven themes that emerged from the analysis. The role of teacher in the SDL process includes: (1) Competent; (2) Concern; (3) Creative; (4) Facilitator; (5) Motivator; (6) Partners; and (7) Role Model.
Do Elementary Science Methods Textbooks Promote Understanding of Shadows?
Authors: H. Barrow Lloyd
Published: May 2017

Elementary science methods textbooks can be an important resource for future elementary teachers of science. Since shadows are a common topic in elementary school and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS Lead States, 2013). A series of ten shadows concepts were formed into a learning progression by Wizman and Fortus (2007). For this research, ten science methods textbook were read and analyzed about how each of the shadow concepts were addressed. These methods textbooks focused on a limited number of shadow concepts. Consequently, as a future reference, they are very limited in addressing all ten shadow concepts.
The Development of Mind Mapping Media in Flood Material using ADDIE Model
Authors: Sari Sri Adelila , Sakdiah Halimatun
Published: May 2017

This study aimed to develop a media mind mapping through ADDIE model in teaching the flooding material. The samples that used were students of class X-3 Madrasah Aliyah (MA) Darul Ulum totaling 30 students. This type of study was the Research and Development (R D) by using ADDIE models. Data collected by using mind mapping sheets that students' work. Data was analyzed by descriptive statistics. Results of this study found that in developing mind mapping media through five stages, namely: analysis, design, development, implementation and evaluation. The study concluded that the media mind mapping that have been developed and validated could be a viable and effective media used in the learning process.
Application of Employability Skills and Contextual Performance Level of Employees in Government Agencies
Authors: C. Abas Maripaz
Published: May 2017

The widespread practice of contractualization even in government institutions is a big challenge facing newly-hired employees in seeking a stable position.  Researchers have argued that the quality of practice of employability skills could help employees have better job performance, provide them better working condition or status, and consequently meet the higher expectations of employers. The present study employs descriptive research design to explain the extent of application of employability skills and contextual performance.  Based on The Conference Board of Canada’s Employability Skills 2000+ and Borman and Motowidlo’s Taxonomy of Contextual Performance, two sets of survey questionnaires were adopted to gather data from 220 respondents representing employers and employees from 25 government institutions. Data analysis showed that novice employees in public institutions applied their employability skills such as fundamental, personal management and teamwork skills to some extent. Moreover, results revealed that employees had satisfactory contextual performance.  Thus, this may suggest that the application of employability skills and contextual behaviors should be enhanced to meet the increasing and complex challenges of their respective government agencies.
Pre-Service Teachers’ Experiences during Off-Campus Observation: Basis for Improving the Roles of Teacher Education Institutions and Cooperating Schools
Authors: C. Abas Maripaz
Published: May 2017

Observing experienced teachers is an indispensable part of practicum studies in teacher education.  This paper examined the perceptions of pre-service teachers from five major fields of teacher education program on their experiences during off-campus observation in selected secondary schools. This used qualitative content analysis method in order to “subjectively interpret the content of text data through the systematic classification process of coding and identifying themes or patterns” (Hsieh Shanon, 2005 p. 1278) . Data were taken from 136 pre-service teachers  through open-ended questions and two high school principals, 10 cooperating teachers, six student supervisors and 12 pre-service teachers through Focus Group Interview (FGI) and Key Informant Interview (KII). Codes and emerging themes were derived using content analysis.  Results showed 18 themes for desirable experiences and 24 themes for undesirable experiences. Pre-service teachers’ experiences mostly focused on students’ attitudes and behaviors. Suggestions to improve off-campus observation from multi-level participants of the study concentrated on preparedness,  orientation programs, supervision and monitoring,  personal attributes and roles, values, attitudes and behaviors, deployment, post conferences,  supervisory plan, observation policies and guidelines,  required documents, seminars, time management, evaluation, coordination, and cultural diversity. To sustain the desirable experiences, both cooperating teachers and student supervisors believed that their roles were to serve as model, guide, leader, monitor, planner, and motivator. The varied experiences of pre-service teachers imply that Teacher Education Institutions (TEIs) and cooperating schools should provide opportunities, develop competencies, take responsibilities and strengthen partnership to enhance off-campus observation.
A Descriptive Study of the Critical Thinking Skills of Social Science at Junior High School
Authors: Hapsari Sri
Published: May 2017

The significance of the research is to seize a description of critical thinking students at a Junior High School at South Tangerang, Indonesia. It uses a descriptive statistic method to describe a more specified critical thinking student. Nowadays, learning process has been valued as non-critical thinking method to students. Whereas, by the critical thinking there will be the activity of thinking process to conclude. It has needed to be drilled since it had been early time to students to solve the problems. It gets social science critical thinking of 401 students. It is measured by the indicators of interpretation, analysis, evaluation, explanation, and inference. The results indicate the students skill in interpretation, analysis, explanation, and inference at a high level whereas it needs to create learning process of critical thinking students to do the evaluation at a medium level creating the hard worker and problem solver students.
Building Sustainability Quality of English Education Department by Creating English Area
Authors: Fauzia Fauzia
Published: May 2017

Nowadays English is to be regarded as international languages in the world. In Indonesia as a part of South Asia, English has two functions as foreign and second language. In fact, English Language Education becomes more popular for all people in Indonesia. English area defines as a place which is able to support language learners to be more active in using English. This area is provided for learners to practice their English both of formal and informal. Creating English area as one of the ways to build a sustainable in English Language Education can be done in all levels. By using this method, language learner’s improvement will increase sharply, not only in the quantity but also in the quality. The reflection of a good quality will be seen in the quality of the language learners who can use English well along with comprehensive cross culture understanding knowledge.
A Model of Women Literacy Preservation through Koran Ibu Program
Authors: Abbas Fauzi Ikka Kartika
Published: May 2017

The effect of literacy education is often disappointing, because many participants do not practice their literacy so that it becomes dull. Government has done efforts to preserve literariness through Koran Ibu program. This program is an effort to improve women literacy which is implemented after basic and advanced literacy education through the activity of journalism. The research focus is the improvement of literacy ability of women through Koran Ibu using with case study method. The research’s subjetcs are 20 housewives who have completed the basic and advanced literacy education program. The result of the research shows that participants significantly develops the literacy skills, it is indicated from that they are able to participate in Koran Ibu’s rubrics with their literary works based on reportage and personal experience. The program is succesful due to the coordination among  local participants (Lurah, Camat, PKK of local level), the cooperation with proper stakeholders (university and local tutor), the appropriate approach of adult learning, flexible implementation strategy but planned, and the routine evaluation.
Blended Learning Approach of the Flipped Model for Partograph Short Course
Authors: Linawati Linawati
Published: May 2017

Crucial demand of professional and well-trained midwives, midwifery lecturers, general practitioner, and OBGYN in Indonesia could be fulfilled by providing effective learning process to them. Udayana University through its Distance Learning Centre has offered Partograph short course in order to respond the demand. The short course has implemented blended learning approach of the flipped classroom with international collaboration. The course was joint by participants from 11 countries through video conference.  The course was well designed, conducted follow Global Development Learning Network standard, and then it was evaluated.  The course yielded high impact to the participants which could be seen from the participants’ feedback. They testified that the course was marvelous, effective and informative. Finally the evaluation results showed that all components of the learning process have significant result to the overall learning quality which was shown by their correlation coefficients.
Development of Korean EFL Learners’ Learning Attitude using Flash-Based Animated Books
Authors: Yoon Tecnam
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this study is intended to identify the effectiveness of flash-based animated books when applied to the EFL elementary English class. As a teaching material, a flash-based animated book was chosen and discussed in order to figure out any changes of learners’ attitude toward English learning. Given the analysed data which were collected mainly through questionnaires and interviews with focal participants, findings suggested that flash-based animated books provided EFL students with rich content context, and created an interactive learning environment by promoting their motivation.
Module Based on Pedagogical Content Knowledge to Increase the Engagement and Skills of the Future Teachers in Designing a Lesson Plan
Authors: Maryani Ika , Martaningsih Sri Tutur , Putra Bhakti Caraka
Published: May 2017

Lesson plans is the most important component in preparing a quality learning. Teachers’ low understanding on pedagogical content knowledge affects their skills in designing learning. It needs serious effort to equip future teachers with pedagogical content knowledge to produce professional teachers. The aim of this study is to increase the engagement and skills of future teachers in designing lesson plans using module based on pedagogical content knowledge. College-students engagement indicators are adopted from Students Engagement Instrument (SEI)-Appleton, Christenson, Kim, and Reschly, consisting of affective and cognitive engagement. The skill in question are the ability to writing the subject’s identity, writing competencies, formulating indicators, compiling teaching materials, designing media, choosing learning method, compiling learning scenarios, as well as designing assessment. This research is a classroom action research that is designed in two cycles of learning with the number of respondents is 73 college-students. Each learning cycle is consisting of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The data collection techniques was self-report, observation, portfolios, interviews, field notes, and study documentation. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data, whereas qualitative data were analysed by qualitative analysis of Miles Hubberman model. The results showed that the PCK-based module is able to increase college-students engagement and ability in designing a lesson plan.
Model of Management Capacity Building for Improving The Quality of School
Authors: Satori Djaman , Komariah Aan
Published: May 2017

This study was aimed to develop a Model of Management Capacity Building for Improving The Quality of Elementary School in Bandung, West Java. The research method used the  research and development  prosedure and the main stages were: a preliminary study, development of the design and the product model, expert analysis judgment, operational testing, validation testing through pre-experiment, and product dissemination. The model developed consisted of six components, i.e. vision, skills, resoures, insentive, action plan, and partnership. The study revealed that this model had a significant influence on improving the quality of education through capacity building school management in an integrative model of partnership between school, university and ministry of education.
Early Start DENVER Model: A Meta - analysis
Authors: Canoy Jane P. , Boholano Helen B.
Published: May 2017

Each child with Autism Spectrum Disorder has different symptoms, skills and types of impairment or disorder with other children. This is why the word “spectrum” is included in this disorder. Eapen, Crncec, and Walter, 2013 claimed that there was an emerging evidence that early interventions gives the greatest capacity of child’s development during their first years of life as “brain plasticity” are high during this period. With this, the only intervention program model for children as young as 18 months that has been validated in a randomized clinical trial is “Early Start Denver Model” (ESDM). This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the outcome of “Early Start Denver Model” (ESDM) towards young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This study made use of meta-analysis method. In this study, the researcher utilized studies related to “Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)” which is published in a refereed journal which are all available online. There were five studies included which totals 149 children exposed to ESDM. To examine the “pooled effects” of ESDM in a variety of outcomes, a meta-analytic procedure was performed after the extraction of data of the concrete outcomes. Comprehensive Meta Analysis Version 3.3.070 was used to analyze the data.  The effectiveness of the outcome of “Early Start Denver Model” towards young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) highly depends on the intensity of intervention and the younger child age. This study would provide the basis in effectively implementing an early intervention to children with autism such as the “Early Start Denver Model” (ESDM) that would show great outcome effects to those children that has “Autism Spectrum Disorder”.
IL-33 stimulates the release of procoagulant microvesicles from human monocytes and differentially increases tissue factor in human monocyte subsets
Authors: Stojkovic Stefan , Thulin Åsa , Hell Lena , Thaler Barbara , Rauscher Sabine , Baumgartner Johanna , Gröger Marion , Ay Cihan , Demyanets Svitlana , Neumayer Christoph , Huk Ihor , Spittler Andreas , Huber Kurt , Wojta Johann , Siegbahn Agneta , Åberg Mikael
Published: May 2017

Monocytes and monocyte-derived microvesicles (MVs) are the main source of circulating tissue factor (TF). Increased monocyte TF expression and increased circulating levels of procoagulant MVs contribute to the formation of a prothrombotic state in patients with cardiovascular disease. Interleukin (IL)-33 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in atherosclerosis and other inflammatory diseases, but its role in regulating thrombosis is still unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of IL-33 on the procoagulant properties of human monocytes and monocyte-derived MVs. IL-33 induced a time- and concentration-dependent increase of monocyte TF mRNA and protein levels via binding to the ST2-receptor and activation of the NFκB-pathway. The IL-33 treated monocytes also released CD14+TF+ MVs and IL-33 was found to increase the TF activity of both the isolated monocytes and monocyte-derived MVs. The monocytes were classified into subsets according to their CD14 and CD16 expression. Intermediate monocytes (IM) showed the highest ST2 receptor expression, followed by non-classical monocytes (NCM), and classical monocytes (CM). IL-33 induced a significant increase of TF only in the IM (p<0.01), with a tendency in NCM (p=0.06), but no increase was observed in CM. Finally, plasma levels of IL–33 were positively correlated with CD14+TF+ MVs in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy (r=0.480; p=0.032; n=20). We hereby provide novel evidence that the proinflammatory cytokine IL-33 induces differential TF expression and activity in monocyte subsets, as well as the release of procoagulant MVs. In this manner, IL-33 may contribute to the formation of a prothrombotic state characteristic for cardiovascular disease.

Supplementary Material to this article is available online at www.thrombosis-online.com.