bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secretory Granule Exocytosis
Authors: Burgoyne Robert D. , Morgan Alan
Published: March 2015

Regulated exocytosis of secretory granules or dense-core granules has been examined in many well-characterized cell types including neurons, neuroendocrine, endocrine, exocrine, and hemopoietic cells and also in other less well-studied cell types. Secretory granule exocytosis occurs through mechanisms with many aspects in common with synaptic vesicle exocytosis and most likely uses the same basic protein components. Despite the widespread expression and conservation of a core exocytotic machinery, many variations occur in the control of secretory granule exocytosis that are related to the specialized physiological role of particular cell types. In this review we describe the wide range of cell types in which regulated secretory granule exocytosis occurs and assess the evidence for the expression of the conserved fusion machinery in these cells. The signals that trigger and regulate exocytosis are reviewed. Aspects of the control of exocytosis that are specific for secretory granules compared with synaptic vesicles or for particular cell types are described and compared to define the range of accessory control mechanisms that exert their effects on the core exocytotic machinery.
Oxygen Gradients in the Microcirculation
Authors: TSAI AMY G. , JOHNSON PAUL C. , INTAGLIETTA MARCOS
Published: March 2015

Tsai, Amy G., Paul C. Johnson, and Marcos Intaglietta. Oxygen Gradients in the Microcirculation. Physiol Rev 83: 933–963, 2003; 10.1152/physrev.00034.2002.—As arterialized blood transits from the central circulation to the periphery, oxygen exits through the vessel walls driven by radial oxygen gradients that extend from the red blood cell column, through the plasma, the vessel wall, and the parenchymal tissue. This exit determines a longitudinal gradient of blood oxygen saturation whose extent is inversely related to the level of metabolic activity of the tissue, being small for the brain and considerable for skeletal muscle at rest where hemoglobin is only half-saturated with oxygen when blood arrives to the capillaries. Data obtained by a variety of methods show that the oxygen loss is too great to be explained by diffusion alone, and oxygen gradients measured in the arteriolar wall provide evidence that this structure in vivo is a very large oxygen sink, and suggests a rate of oxygen consumption two orders of magnitude greater than seen in in vitro studies. Longitudinal gradients in the capillary network and radial gradients in surrounding tissue also show a dependence on the metabolic rate of the tissue, being more pronounced in brain than in resting skeletal muscle and mesentery. Mean PO2values increase from the postcapillary venules to the distal vessels of this network while radial gradients indicate additional oxygen loss. This circumstance may be due to pathways with higher flow having higher oxygen content than low flow pathways as well as possible oxygen uptake from adjacent arterioles. Taken together, these newer findings on oxygen gradients in the microcirculation require a reexamination of existing concepts of oxygen delivery to tissue and the role of the capillaries in this process.
Windowed Multitaper Correlation Analysis of Multimodal Brain Monitoring Parameters
Authors: Faltermeier Rupert , Proescholdt Martin A. , Bele Sylvia , Brawanski Alexander
Published: March 2015

Although multimodal monitoring sets the standard in daily practice of neurocritical care, problem-oriented analysis tools to interpret the huge amount of data are lacking. Recently a mathematical model was presented that simulates the cerebral perfusion and oxygen supply in case of a severe head trauma, predicting the appearance of distinct correlations between arterial blood pressure and intracranial pressure. In this study we present a set of mathematical tools that reliably detect the predicted correlations in data recorded at a neurocritical care unit. The time resolved correlations will be identified by a windowing technique combined with Fourier-based coherence calculations. The phasing of the data is detected by means of Hilbert phase difference within the above mentioned windows. A statistical testing method is introduced that allows tuning the parameters of the windowing method in such a way that a predefined accuracy is reached. With this method the data of fifteen patients were examined in which we found the predicted correlation in each patient. Additionally it could be shown that the occurrence of a distinct correlation parameter, called scp, represents a predictive value of high quality for the patients outcome.
Brain Abscess after Percutaneous Therapy for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Acqui Michele , Familiari Pietro , Pesce Alessandro , Toccaceli Giada , Raco Antonino
Published: March 2015

We report a case of brain abscess following the percutaneous treatment for trigeminal neuralgia. This procedure envisages the access with a needle into the middle cranial fossa through the oral cavity. Thus, in this case, the bacterial infection can be more likely ascribed to the possible contamination of the needle inside the oral cavity rather than to other frequent and more controllable causes of infection like an imperfect sterilization of surgical instruments or an inadequate antiseptic preparation of both operator’s hands and patient’s skin. The subsequent brain abscess was treated with antibiotic therapy (Vancomycin 2 gr a day and Meropenem 8 g a day for 22 days before the surgical procedure and 30 days after, until complete normalization of laboratory parameters, clinical parameters, and neurological symptoms) and surgical drainage, although the culture of the abscess capsule and the purulent material resulted sterile. In conclusion, the percutaneous therapy for trigeminal neuralgia can be objectively related to risks, even if performed by expert hands. Therefore, it is important that the patient should be advised regarding risks/benefits and/or septic complications of such procedures, even if they occur very seldom. An association of surgery and antibiotic therapy results as effective treatment for this pathologic condition.
Phylogenomic and Molecular Demarcation of the Core Members of the PolyphyleticPasteurellaceaeGeneraActinobacillus,Haemophilus, andPasteurella
Authors: Naushad Sohail , Adeolu Mobolaji , Goel Nisha , Khadka Bijendra , Al-Dahwi Aqeel , Gupta Radhey S.
Published: March 2015

The generaActinobacillus, Haemophilus,andPasteurellaexhibit extensive polyphyletic branching in phylogenetic trees and do not represent coherent clusters of species. In this study, we have utilized molecular signatures identified through comparative genomic analyses in conjunction with genome based and multilocus sequence based phylogenetic analyses to clarify the phylogenetic and taxonomic boundary of these genera. We have identified large clusters ofActinobacillus, Haemophilus,andPasteurellaspecies which represent the “sensu stricto” members of these genera. We have identified 3, 7, and 6 conserved signature indels (CSIs), which are specifically shared bysensu strictomembers ofActinobacillus, Haemophilus,andPasteurella, respectively. We have also identified two different sets of CSIs that are unique characteristics of the pathogen containing generaAggregatibacterandMannheimia, respectively. It is now possible to demarcate the generaActinobacillus sensu stricto, Haemophilus sensu stricto,andPasteurella sensu strictoon the basis of discrete molecular signatures. The other members of the generaActinobacillus, Haemophilus,andPasteurellathat do not fall within the “sensu stricto” clades and do not contain these molecular signatures should be reclassified as other genera. The CSIs identified here also provide useful diagnostic targets for the identification of current and novel members of the indicated genera.
Recycling of Waste Streams of the Biotechnological Poly(hydroxyalkanoate) Production byHaloferax mediterraneion Whey
Authors: Koller Martin
Published: March 2015

For manufacturing “bioplastics” such as poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHA), the combination of utilization of inexpensive carbon sources with the application of robust microbial production strains is considered a decisive step to make this process more cost-efficient and sustainable. PHA production based on surplus whey from dairy industry was accomplished by the extremely halophile archaeonHaloferax mediterranei. After fermentative production of PHA-rich biomass and the subsequent cell harvest and downstream processing for PHA recovery, environmentally hazardous, highly saline residues, namely spent fermentation broth and cell debris, remain as residues. These waste streams were used for recycling experiments to assess their recyclability in subsequent production processes. It was demonstrated that spent fermentation broth can be used to replace a considerable part of fresh saline fermentation medium in subsequent production processes. In addition, 29% of the expensive yeast extract, needed as nitrogen and phosphate source for efficient cultivation of the microorganism, can be replaced by cell debris from prior cultivations. The presented study provides strategies to combine the reduction of costs for biomediated PHA production with minimizing ecological risks by recycling precarious waste streams. Overall, the presented work shall contribute to the quick economic success of these promising biomaterials.
Radiolytic Synthesis of Colloidal Silver Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Wound Dressings
Authors: Uttayarat Pimpon , Eamsiri Jarurattana , Tangthong Theeranan , Suwanmala Phiriyatorn
Published: March 2015

Radiolytic synthesis provides a convenient and environmentally-friendly approach to prepare metallic nanoparticles in large scale with narrow size distribution. In this report, colloidal silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were synthesized by gamma radiation using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) or silk fibroin (SF) as stabilizers and were evaluated for their antibacterial properties. The conversion of metallic silver ions to silver atoms depended on irradiation dose and stabilizer concentration as determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry and transmission electron microscopy. The uniformly dispersed AgNPs with diameter 32.3 ± 4.40 nm were evaluated as antiseptic agents in films composed of chitosan, SF, and PVA that were processed by irradiation-induced crosslinking. Using disc diffusion assay, the films containing 432 ppm AgNPs could effectively inhibit the growth of bothStaphylococcus aureusandPseudomonas aeruginosa. Therefore, we have demonstrated in our present study that gamma radiation technique can potentially be applied in the mass production of antibacterial wound dressings.
Lichen Planus Induced by Pegylated Interferon Alfa-2a Therapy in a Patient Monitored for Delta Hepatitis
Authors: Kaya Safak , Arslan Eyup , Baysal Birol , Baykara Sule Nergiz , Uzun Ozlem Ceren , Kaya Sehmuz
Published: March 2015

Interferons are used for treatment of chronic hepatitis B. They can induce or exacerbate some skin disorders, such as lichen planus. In this study, as we know, we presented the first case developing lichen planus while receiving interferon treatment due to delta hepatitis. A 31-year-old male patient presented to our outpatient clinic with HBsAg positivity. With his analyses, HBV DNA was negative, anti-delta total was positive, ALT was 72 U/L (upper limit 41 U/L), and platelet was 119 000/mm3. He was therefore started on subcutaneous pegylated interferon alfa-2a therapy at 180 mcg/week for delta hepatitis. At month 4 of therapy, the patient developed diffuse eroded lace-like lesions in oral mucosa, white plaques on lips, and itchy papular lesions in the hands and feet. Lichen planus was considered by the dermatology clinic and topical treatment (mometasone furoate) was given. The lesions persisted at month 5 of therapy and biopsy samples were obtained from oral mucosal lesions and interferon dose was reduced to 135 mcg/week. Biopsy demonstrated nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium; epithelial acanthosis, spongiosis, and apoptotic bodies were observed in the epidermis and therefore lichen planus was considered. At month 6 of therapy, lesions did not improve and even progressed and interferon treatment was therefore discontinued.
The Interplay of the Gut Microbiome, Bile Acids, and Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Sagar Nidhi M. , Cree Ian A. , Covington James A. , Arasaradnam Ramesh P.
Published: March 2015

Background. There has been an increasing interest in the use of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as potential surrogate markers of gut dysbiosis in gastrointestinal disease. Gut dysbiosis occurs when pathological imbalances in gut bacterial colonies precipitate disease and has been linked to the dysmetabolism of bile acids (BA) in the gut. BA metabolites as a result of microbial transformations act as signaling molecules and have demonstrated regulation of intestinal homeostasis through the TGR5 and FXR receptors by inhibiting inflammation, preventing pathogen invasion, and maintaining cell integrity. The presence of VOC footprints is the resultant effect to gut microbiome substrate fermentation.Aim. To review the role of the gut microbiome and bile acid signaling in intestinal homeostasis and the resultant use of VOCs as potential noninvasive surrogate biomarkers in gut dysbiosis.Methods. A systematic search on PubMed and Medline databases was performed to identify articles relevant to gut dysbiosis, BA metabolism, and VOCs.Conclusions. The host and presence of the gut microbiome appear to regulate the BA pool size. A dysbiotic gut microbiome results in disrupted intestinal homeostasis, which may be reflected by VOCs, differentiating those who are healthy and those with disease.
Congenital Agenesis of the Internal Jugular Vein: An Extremely Rare Anomaly
Authors: Kayiran Oguz , Calli Caglar , Emre Abdulkadir , Soy Fatih Kemal
Published: March 2015

Vascular anomalies of major venous vessels are rarely seen. Moreover, congenital absence of internal jugular vein is extremely uncommon. In our case, a female patient presented with primary unknown left cervical mass. Cervical ultrasonography demonstrated absence of right internal jugular vein. In addition, computed tomography and dynamic magnetic resonance imaging scans confirmed this diagnosis. Compensatory left internal jugular vein enlargement mimicked sort of cervical mass. Venous magnetic resonance imaging images revealed the absence of right internal jugular vein with compensatory left internal jugular vein dominance. In the literature, the agenesis of IJV was mentioned in a case with concomitant multiple problems. Here, an asymptomatic case is reported with an incident diagnosis. No interventions were planned upon the patient's request. It should be kept in mind that any kind of anomalies can be seen during venous access and neck surgery.
Dependence of Eigenvalues of a Class of Higher-Order Sturm-Liouville Problems on the Boundary
Authors: Yang Qiuxia , Wang Wanyi , Gao Xingchao
Published: March 2015

We show that the eigenvalues of a class of higher-order Sturm-Liouville problems depend not only continuously but also smoothly on boundary points and that the derivative of thenth eigenvalue as a function of an endpoint satisfies a first order differential equation. In addition, we prove that as the length of the interval shrinks to zero all2kth-order Dirichlet eigenvalues march off to plus infinity; this is also true for the first (i.e., lowest) eigenvalue.
Treating Urge Incontinence in Older Women: A Cost-Effective Investment in Quality-Adjusted Life-Years (QALY)
Authors: Phillips Victoria L. , Bonakdar Tehrani Ali , Langmuir Holly , Goode Patricia S. , Burgio Kathryn L.
Published: March 2015

Objectives. To conduct cost-effectiveness analyses of urge incontinence treatments for older women. Methods. Decision-analytic models assessed three treatment pathways: (1) limited behavioral therapy (LBT); (2) full behavioral therapy (FBT) with biofeedback; and (3) drug (DRUG), with allowances for crossover options following initial treatments. Model inputs were gathered from published data. Cost data were based on third party payer reimbursement. Outcomes were measured as the number of incontinence episodes avoided and quality-adjusted life years gained (QALYs). Results. At baseline values costs per QALY gained ranged from US$3696 to $10609. LBT was the least costly with the lowest benefit. Switching from LBT to FBT, with the greatest gain, was $415 per additional QALY. DRUG was the most expensive option. Sensitivity analyses showed that only small changes in key inputs were required for DRUG to generate greater gains than FBT. Medication costs had to fall substantially for DRUG to be cost competitive. Conclusion. All treatment strategies provide QALYs gains at a bargain price, compared to the standard of US$50,000 per QALY gained. No single treatment strategy dominated under all conditions. Clinicians should offer multiple treatment options to older women with urge incontinence.
Half-Metallic Ferromagnetism in Chalcopyrite (AlGaMn)P2Alloys
Authors: Kang Byung-Sub , Chae Kwang-Pyo , Lee Haeng-Ki
Published: March 2015

We studied the electronic and magnetic properties of (Al1−yMny)GaP2(Ga-rich) and Al(Ga1−yMny)P2(Al-rich) withy = 0.03125, 0.0625, 0.09375, and 0.125 by using the first-principles calculations. The ferromagnetic Mn-doped AlGaP2chalcopyrite is the most energetically favorable one. The spin polarized Al(GaMn)P2state (Al-rich system) is more stable than spin polarized (AlMn)GaP2state (Ga-rich) with the magnetic moment of 3.8 μB/Mn. The Mn-doped AlGaP2yields strong half-metallic ground states. The states of host Al, Ga, or P atoms at the Fermi level are mainly a P-3pcharacter, which mediates a strong interaction between the Mn-3dand P-3pstates.
Electronic Markets Selection in Supply Chain with Uncertain Demand and Uncertain Price
Authors: Yang Fengmei , Wang Yakun , Pei Jie , Li Jian
Published: March 2015

In recent years, more and more companies start online operation. Electronic market becomes a key component of some companies’ strategy. Supply chain management is another key component of the strategy as being adopted by an increasing number of companies. There are many interactions between electronic market and supply chain. One of the key questions is to select one type of electronic market from the view of supply chain. This paper develops some models to explore the issue of selection between public electronic market and private electronic market in three scenarios where electronic market is used for buying, for selling, and for both selling and buying, respectively. In a public electronic market, neither the supplier nor the retailer is the owner of the electronic market. However, in a private electronic market, there is an owner that is either the supplier or the retailer. Besides demand uncertainty, we take into account the price uncertainty in electronic market. We explore the conditions under which the agent of supply chain selects one certain type of electronic market by comparing expected profits of supply chain members in different scenarios. Some sensitivity analyses are conducted to explore the impact of the customer demand, electronic market retail price, and e-market use fee on the selection of electronic market. Finally, some interesting managerial and academic insights are obtained.
Ankylosing Spondylitis and Posture Control: The Role of Visual Input
Authors: De Nunzio Alessandro Marco , Iervolino Salvatore , Zincarelli Carmela , Di Gioia Luisa , Rengo Giuseppe , Multari Vincenzo , Peluso Rosario , Di Minno Matteo Nicola Dario , Pappone Nicola
Published: March 2015

Objectives. To assess the motor control during quiet stance in patients with established ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and to evaluate the effect of visual input on the maintenance of a quiet posture.Methods. 12 male AS patients (mean age 50.1 ± 13.2 years) and 12 matched healthy subjects performed 2 sessions of 3 trials in quiet stance, with eyes open (EO) and with eyes closed (EC) on a baropodometric platform. The oscillation of the centre of feet pressure (CoP) was acquired. Indices of stability and balance control were assessed by the sway path (SP) of the CoP, the frequency bandwidth (FB1) that includes the 80% of the area under the amplitude spectrum, the mean amplitude of the peaks (MP) of the sway density curve (SDC), and the mean distance (MD) between 2 peaks of the SDC.Results. In severe AS patients, the MD between two peaks of the SDC and the SP of the center of feet pressure were significantly higher than controls during both EO and EC conditions. The MP was significantly reduced just on EC.Conclusions. Ankylosing spondylitis exerts negative effect on postural stability, not compensable by visual inputs. Our findings may be useful in the rehabilitative management of the increased risk of falling in AS.
Impact of NRAS Mutations for Patients with Advanced Melanoma Treated with Immune Therapies
Authors: Johnson Douglas B. , Lovly Christine M. , Flavin Marisa , Panageas Katherine S. , Ayers Gregory D. , Zhao Zhiguo , Iams Wade T. , Colgan Marta , DeNoble Sarah , Terry Charles R. , Berry Elizabeth G. , Iafrate A. John , Sullivan Ryan J. , Carvajal Richard D. , Sosman Jeffrey A.
Published: March 2015

Activating NRAS mutations are found in 15% to 20% of melanomas. Immune therapies have become a mainstay in advanced melanoma treatment. We sought to evaluate whether tumor genotype (e.g., NRAS mutations) correlates with benefit from immune therapy in melanoma. We identified 229 patients with melanoma treated with immune therapies [IL2, ipilimumab, or anti-programmed cell death-1/ligand-1 (PD-1/PD-L1)] at three centers and compared clinical outcomes following immune therapy for patients with or without NRAS mutations. Of the 229 patients with melanoma, 60 had NRAS mutation, 53 had BRAF mutation, and 116 had NRAS/BRAF wild type. The NRAS-mutant cohort had superior or a trend to superior outcomes compared with the other cohorts in terms of response to first-line immune therapy (28% vs. 16%, P = 0.04), response to any line of immune therapy (32% vs. 20%, P = 0.07), clinical benefit (response + stable disease lasting ≥24 weeks; 50% vs. 31%, P < 0.01), and progression-free survival (median, 4.1 vs. 2.9 months, P = 0.09). Benefit from anti–PD-1/PD-L1 was particularly marked in the NRAS cohort (clinical benefit rate 73% vs. 35%). In an independent group of patient samples, NRAS-mutant melanoma had higher PD-L1 expression (although not statistically significant) compared with other genotypes (8/12 vs. 9/20 samples with ≥1% expression; 6/12 vs. 6/20 samples with ≥5% expression), suggesting a potential mechanism for the clinical results. This retrospective study suggests that NRAS mutations in advanced melanoma correlate with increased benefit from immune-based therapies compared with other genetic subtypes. If confirmed by prospective studies, this may be explained in part by high rates of PD-L1 expression. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(3); 288–95. ©2015 AACR.
The Shared and Contrasting Roles of IL2 and IL15 in the Life and Death of Normal and Neoplastic Lymphocytes: Implications for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Waldmann Thomas A.
Published: March 2015

IL2 and IL15, members of the 4α-helix bundle family of cytokines, play pivotal roles in the control of the life and death of lymphocytes. Although their heterotrimeric receptors have two receptor subunits in common, these two cytokines have contrasting roles in adaptive immune responses. The unique role of IL2 through maintenance of fitness of regulatory T cells and activation-induced cell death is the elimination of self-reactive T cells to prevent autoimmunity. In contrast with IL2, IL15 is dedicated to the prolonged maintenance of memory T-cell responses to invading pathogens. Blockade of IL2 and IL15 using monoclonal antibodies has been reported to be of value in the treatment of patients with leukemia, autoimmune disorders, and in the prevention of allograft rejection. IL2 has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of patients with malignant renal cell cancer and metastatic malignant melanoma. Clinical trials involving recombinant human IL15 given by bolus infusions have been completed, and studies assessing subcutaneous and continuous intravenous infusions are under way in patients with metastatic malignancy. Furthermore, clinical trials are being initiated that employ the combination of IL15 with IL15Rα+/− IgFc. Cancer Immunol Res; 3(3); 219–27. ©2015 AACR.
Event-Related Synchronization and Desynchronization of High-Frequency Electroencephalographic Activity during a Visual Go/No-Go Paradigm
Authors: Iijima Mutsumi , Mase Ryuzo , Osawa Mikio , Shimizu Satoru , Uchiyama Shinichiro
Published: March 2015

Objective: High-frequency electroencephalography (EEG) activity has been observed in association with cognitive processing, including stimulus perception, consciousness and selective attention, in humans. The aim of this study was to compare visual-motor integrated processing between execution and inhibition of a motor response using event-related synchronization (ERS) and desynchronization (ERD) in the 15- to 80-Hz range and to investigate a relationship between event-related potentials (ERPs) and ERS/ERD in 10 normal young subjects. Methods: EEGs were recorded from 21 scalp sites during a visual go/no-go paradigm. For ERPs, 40 artifact-free trials were averaged off-line referenced to linked ear lobes. In the β and γ bands, ERS and ERD were calculated by time-frequency analysis. Results: Go N2 and no-go N2 were elicited 200-250 ms after stimuli, and their distributions were predominant at Fz. Go P3 was predominantly elicited 340-360 ms after stimuli at Pz, whereas no-go P3 was predominantly elicited 360-380 ms after stimuli at Cz. ERD of the β band at Fz and Cz during 300-600 ms showed in the go condition, whereas ERD showed between 39 and 42 Hz at F3 in the no-go condition. Conclusion: Oscillatory cortical response-related β and γ activities differ between the processing of execution and inhibition in motor responses. β ERDs in the sensorimotor areas with go stimuli may be related to motor responses, and γ ERDs in the left frontal area with no-go stimuli may be involved in the processing of inhibition of motor responses.
Evaluation of Methods for the Estimation of Threshold Concentrations by the Skin Prick Test
Authors: Dreborg Sten , Holgersson Margareta
Published: March 2015

Background: The allergen dose-response curve is flat; thus, small changes in wheal size reflect large differences in skin sensitivity. The sensitivity as measured by provocation tests is given by the threshold concentration that causes symptoms and/or objective signs. The threshold concentrations differ by several magnitudes between the most and the least sensitive individuals clinically allergic to the same allergen. Variation in technique can be minimized by relating allergen responses to that to histamine. The aim here is to present and validate simple methods for estimation of the skin sensitivity given as the concentration inducing a wheal of the same size as that with the positive reference, 10 mg/ml of histamine HCl, in the same patient. Methods: Data from previously reported trials on the biological equilibration of allergen extracts were used to document a method to calculate the concentration of allergen required to induce a wheal of the same size as that with 10 mg/ml of histamine dihydrochloride in the same patient, and to validate the methods using the parallel line bioassay as the gold standard. Results: The validated methods correlated well with the results obtained using the gold standard method and provide results of skin prick testing based on threshold concentrations of allergen. Conclusions: The validated methods reduce the error of differences in testing techniques and make it possible to report skin sensitivity at threshold concentrations. A simple method to be used in clinical practice and a method suitable to describe changes in skin reactivity over time or during treatment are proposed.
Prediction of Respiratory Outcome in Extremely Low Gestational Age Infants
Authors: Parad Richard B. , Davis Jonathan M. , Lo Jessica , Thomas Mark , Marlow Neil , Calvert Sandy , Peacock Janet L. , Greenough Anne
Published: March 2015

Background: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a commonly used outcome for randomized neonatal trials. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to determine whether a diagnosis of BPD or respiratory morbidity (RM1 or RM2) at 12 months corrected age better predicted subsequent RM in extremely low gestational age infants (23-28 weeks of gestation). Methods: Initial analysis was undertaken in a development cohort of 76 infants who underwent pulmonary function tests (PFTs) at 12 months corrected age. Parents completed infant respiratory diaries 2 weeks before the PFTs. Analysis was then undertaken in a validation cohort of 227 infants whose parents completed a 4-week respiratory diary when their infant was 12 months corrected age. BPD at 28 days (BPD28d) and 36 weeks post-menstrual age (BPD36w), RM1 (≥3 days and/or nights of cough, wheeze, and/or medicine use) and RM2 (≥4 days and/or nights of cough, wheeze, and/or respiratory medicine use) each week for 2 weeks at 12 months corrected age were assessed with regard to prediction of respiratory outcomes at 24 months documented by respiratory health questionnaires. Results: BPD28d and BPD36w were not significantly associated with any respiratory outcome. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves were significantly better for either definition of RM than BPD28d or BPD36w for all outcomes. Conclusions: RM documented by parental completed diaries at 12 months corrected age better predicted respiratory outcome at 24 months corrected age than BPD regardless of diagnostic criteria.
Lung Deposition of Nebulized Surfactant in Newborn Piglets
Authors: Linner Rikard , Perez-de-Sa Valeria , Cunha-Goncalves Doris
Published: March 2015

Background: It would be advantageous for the treatment of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome if effective amounts of surfactant could be delivered by nebulization. Objective: To investigate lung deposition and distribution of nebulized porcine surfactant using an investigational eFlow® neonatal nebulizer. Methods: While lying on one side, 1-day-old piglets inhaled 200 mg·kg-1 of nebulized surfactant via mask, nasal prongs, or tracheal tube. The surfactant was diluted with normal saline to 40 mg·ml-1 and labeled with 99mtechnetium-labelled nanocolloid. Undiluted surfactant (80 mg·ml-1) was instilled tracheally in a fourth group. Each group had 8 animals. Lung deposition was measured by gamma scintigraphy, and deposition values were presented as a percentage of the nebulized or instilled dose. Results: The median lung deposition of inhaled surfactant was 5% (range 3-16) via mask, 14% (2-40) via prongs, and 45% (25-56) via tracheal tube (p < 0.05). It was 88% (71-96) with instillation. In all groups, the surfactant preferentially went to the dependent lung. Deposition ratios (upper lung/both lungs) were 0.32 (0.13-0.58), 0.15 (0.05-0.58), 0.16 (0.11-0.23), and 0.08 (0.03-0.46). Conclusions: Using this nebulizer, the lung depositions of porcine surfactant were 45% via endotracheal tube and 14% via nasal-continuous positive airway pressure (prongs). These figures might be physiologically relevant, but still have to be confirmed in efficacy studies.
Role of the luxS Gene in Initial Biofilm Formation by Streptococcus mutans
Authors: He Zhiyan , Liang Jingping , Tang Zisheng , Ma Rui , Peng Huasong , Huang Zhengwei
Published: March 2015

Quorum sensing (QS) is a process by which bacteria communicate with each other by secreting chemical signals called autoinducers (AIs). Among Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, AI-2 synthesized by the LuxS enzyme is widespread. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of QS luxS gene on initial biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans. The bacterial cell surface properties, including cell hydrophobicity (bacterial adherence to hydrocarbons) and aggregation, which are important for initial adherence during biofilm development, were investigated. The biofilm adhesion assay was evaluated by the MTT method. The structures of the 5-hour biofilms were observed by using confocal laser scanning microscopy, and QS-related gene expressions were investigated by real-time PCR. The luxS mutant strain exhibited higher biofilm adherence and aggregation, but lower hydrophobicity than the wild-type strain. The confocal laser scanning microscopy images revealed that the wild-type strain tended to form smaller aggregates with uniform distribution, whereas the luxS mutant strain aggregated into distinct clusters easily discernible in the generated biofilm. Most of the genes examined were downregulated in the biofilms formed by the luxS mutant strain, except the gtfB gene. QS luxS gene can affect the initial biofilm formation by S. mutans.
Hemodialysis in Patients Over 80 Years
Authors: Leimbach Til , Kron Joachim , Czerny Jutta , Urbach Birgit , Aign Sabine , Kron Susanne
Published: March 2015

Background: In Germany, every fifth patient starting dialysis is now 80 years of age or older. The question that is currently relevant is not whether we have to treat patients who are older than 80. Rather the question now is how to treat this elderly group of patients. Methods: Single centre data of all dialysis patients aged over 80 were analyzed with regard to survival, social circumstances, vascular access, and pre-dialysis nephrology care. Results: Between 2001 and 2012, 76 patients over 80 years started chronic ambulatory hemodialysis treatment. One-year survival was 87%, 3-year survival 52%, 5-year survival 27% and 10-year survival 9%. Patients (n = 55) with more than 3 months of nephrological care prior to dialysis (3-161 months, median 31 months) survived significantly longer then patients (n = 21) having had less than 3 months contact with nephrologists. On 31st December 2012 there were 38 patients aged ≥80 (median age 84, 80-95 years) in the chronic hemodialysis program accounting for 19% of all dialysis patients of this center. Thirty patients (79%) had been in long-term nephrological care prior to dialysis initiation (3-161 months, median 45 months). Thirty one patients (82%) started the first dialysis treatment with a functioning shunt access. Conclusion: Long-term pre-dialysis nephrology care is of most importance for successful dialysis treatment in the elderly, especially in octogenarians and nonagenarians. It enables the early establishment of functioning vascular access and careful scheduling of first dialysis treatment and increases survival. The long-term use of catheters can be avoided in almost all patients above the age of 80.
Participación infantil... Historia de una relación de invisibilidad
Authors: Gallego-Henao Adriana María
Published: March 2015

En el presente texto mi objetivo es dar cuenta de los diferentes aspectos conceptuales sobre el lugar del niño o niña en la historia, desde una perspectiva de derechos, tomando como referencia obras clásicas e investigaciones relacionadas con el tema. Utilicé la revisión documental como método, a partir del uso de bases de datos científicas. Los resultados revelan que la participación infantil es un tema poco estudiado y el fortalecimiento de esta desde los primeros años puede verse reflejado en el desarrollo de las capacidades de los niños y las niñas. Concluyo que históricamente los niños y las niñas han estado invisibilizados en la sociedad; sin embargo a partir de la Convención de los Derechos del niño esta visión se ha trasformado.
Impaired Neuronal Nitric Oxide Synthase–Mediated Vasodilator Responses to Mental Stress in Essential Hypertension
Authors: Khan Sitara G. , Geer Amber , Fok Henry W. , Shabeeh Husain , Brett Sally E. , Shah Ajay M. , Chowienczyk Philip J.
Published: March 2015

Neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) regulates blood flow in resistance vasculature at rest and during mental stress. To investigate whether nNOS signaling is dysfunctional in essential hypertension, forearm blood flow responses to mental stress were examined in 88 subjects: 48 with essential hypertension (42±14 years; blood pressure, 141±17/85±15 mm Hg; mean±SD) and 40 normotensive controls (38±14 years; 117±13/74±9 mm Hg). A subsample of 34 subjects (17 hypertensive) participated in a single blind 2-phase crossover study, in which placebo or sildenafil 50 mg PO was administered before an intrabrachial artery infusion of the selective nNOS inhibitor S-methyl-
l
-thiocitrulline (SMTC, 0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 μmol/min) at rest and during mental stress. In a further subsample (n=21) with an impaired blood flow response to mental stress, responses were measured in the presence and absence of the α-adrenergic antagonist phentolamine. The blood flow response to mental stress was impaired in hypertensive compared with normotensive subjects (37±7% versus 70±8% increase over baseline;
P
<0.001). SMTC blunted responses to mental stress in normotensive but not in hypertensive subjects (reduction of 40±11% versus 3.0±14%, respectively,
P
=0.01, between groups). Sildenafil reduced the blood flow response to stress in normotensive subjects from 89±14% to 43±14% (
P
<0.03) but had no significant effect in hypertensive subjects. Phentolamine augmented impaired blood flow responses to mental stress from 39±8% to 67±13% (
P
<0.02). Essential hypertension is associated with impaired mental stress–induced nNOS-mediated vasodilator responses; this may relate to increased sympathetic outflow in hypertension. nNOS dysfunction may impair vascular homeostasis in essential hypertension and contribute to stress-induced cardiovascular events.
Effects of Thiazide-Type and Thiazide-Like Diuretics on Cardiovascular Events and Mortality
Authors: Olde Engberink Rik H.G. , Frenkel Wijnanda J. , van den Bogaard Bas , Brewster Lizzy M. , Vogt Liffert , van den Born Bert-Jan H.
Published: March 2015

Thiazide diuretics are recommended as first-line therapy for hypertension and are among the most commonly prescribed drugs worldwide. According to their molecular structure, thiazide diuretics can be divided in thiazide-type (TT) and thiazide-like (TL) diuretics. TL diuretics have a longer elimination half-life compared with TT diuretics and have been shown to exert additional pharmacological effects, which may differently affect cardiovascular risk. In this meta-analysis, we compared the effects of TT and TL diuretics on cardiovascular events and mortality. Randomized, controlled studies in adult hypertensive patients that compared TT or TL diuretics with placebo or antihypertensive drugs and had ≥1 year follow-up were included. Primary outcome was cardiovascular events; secondary outcomes included coronary events, heart failure, cerebrovascular events, and all-cause mortality. Meta-regression analysis was used to identify confounders and correct for the achieved blood pressure reductions. Twenty-one studies with >480 000 patient-years were included. Outcomes were not affected by heterogeneity in age, sex, and ethnicity among included studies, whereas larger blood pressure reductions were significantly associated with increased risk reductions for all outcomes (
P
<0.001). Corrected for differences in office blood pressure reductions among trials, TL diuretics resulted in a 12% additional risk reduction for cardiovascular events (
P
=0.049) and a 21% additional risk reduction for heart failure (
P
=0.023) when compared with TT diuretics. The incidence of adverse events was comparable among TT, TL diuretics, and other antihypertensive therapy. Our data suggest that the best available evidence seems to favor TL diuretics as the drug of choice when thiazide treatment is considered for hypertension.
Thromboxane Prostanoid Receptors Enhance Contractions, Endothelin-1, and Oxidative Stress in Microvessels From Mice With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wang Cheng , Luo Zaiming , Kohan Donald , Wellstein Anton , Jose Pedro A. , Welch William J. , Wilcox Christopher S. , Wang Dan
Published: March 2015

Cardiovascular disease is frequent in chronic kidney disease and has been related to angiotensin II, endothelin-1 (ET-1), thromboxane A
2
, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Because activation of thromboxane prostanoid receptors (TP-Rs) can generate ROS, which can generate ET-1, we tested the hypothesis that chronic kidney disease induces cyclooxygenase-2 whose products activate TP-Rs to enhance ET-1 and ROS generation and contractions. Mesenteric resistance arterioles were isolated from C57/BL6 or TP-R+/+ and TP-R−/− mice 3 months after SHAM-operation (SHAM) or surgical reduced renal mass (RRM, n=6/group). Microvascular contractions were studied on a wire myograph. Cellular (ethidium: dihydroethidium) and mitochondrial (mitoSOX) ROS were measured by fluorescence microscopy. Mice with RRM had increased excretion of markers of oxidative stress, thromboxane, and microalbumin; increased plasma ET-1; and increased microvascular expression of p22
phox
, cyclooxygenase-2, TP-Rs, preproendothelin and endothelin-A receptors, and increased arteriolar remodeling. They had increased contractions to U-46,619 (118±3 versus 87±6,
P
<0.05) and ET-1 (108±5 versus 89±4,
P
<0.05), which were dependent on cellular and mitochondrial ROS, cyclooxygenase-2, and TP-Rs. RRM doubled the ET-1-induced cellular and mitochondrial ROS generation (
P
<0.05). TP-R−/− mice with RRM lacked these abnormal structural and functional microvascular responses and lacked the increased systemic and the increased microvascular oxidative stress and circulating ET-1. In conclusion, RRM leads to microvascular remodeling and enhanced ET-1-induced cellular and mitochondrial ROS and contractions that are mediated by cyclooxygenase-2 products activating TP-Rs. Thus, TP-Rs can be upstream from enhanced ROS, ET-1, microvascular remodeling, and contractility and may thereby coordinate vascular dysfunction in chronic kidney disease.
The New Rhetoric of Youth Ministry
Authors: Dean Kenda Creasy
Published: March 2015

Surprisingly, despite the litany of crises that ushered in the twenty-first century, the rhetoric of despair that once typified the conversation about mainline Protestant youth ministry shows signs of softening. This article traces three developments that have gathered momentum in the last thirty years to set the stage for a rhetorical change of heart surrounding youth ministry. Today's conversation about ministry with young people aligns itself with practical theology as well as Christian education, claims as its context global postmodernity as well as youth culture, and interprets its curriculum as the spiritual practices of the Christian community, and not simply as youth programs. Armed with a broader purpose, a broader context, and a broader curriculum, the present discourse surrounding youth ministry suggests an emerging "rhetoric of hope" as it sets out to redefine the church as well as youth ministry itself.
Handling the Flames: Thoughts on Burnout in Ministry
Authors: Aven Anna
Published: March 2015

As the Song of Songs relates in chapters two and three, the bride finds herself alone, out of the presence of her love. This causes great consternation and she determines that she must have him, so she goes to search for him. In the same way, the loss of the wild abandoned pursuit of our divine Lover results in burnout in ministry. The thrust of this article is not to further discuss the widely recognized idea that burnout in ministry does occur, but rather to dissect burnout in the stages in which it occurs as well as the areas that it affects the minister, and then to recognize it in its earliest forms so that the loss of fire for God is not the end result of the flames the minister encounters in minishy. Included in this article is a discussion of theology regarding the "indispensability complex" that many ministers often receive from the continuing expectations of their church or ministry, as well as a discussion of handling times of darkness in the minister's life and fanning into flame the passion for our Lover, which is the source of all energy in the ministry.
A Sense of Call: How Parents Support the Vocational Quests of Adolescent Girls
Authors: Mercer Joyce Ann
Published: March 2015

Interview research with adolescent girls in the U.S. demonstrates that parents have a significant impact on their religious lives. This essay explores girls' experiences of how parents support their searches for vocation and meaning in a variety of ways. Viewing adolescence as a time when girls renegotiate their relationships with parents rather than separate from them, the author calls for youth ministry workers to reconsider the dominant pattern of youth ministry in the U.S. which positions youth apart from adults in the church.
Mission to make the blood boil and the heart glad Restitution: A contemporary theology for young people
Authors: Swartz Sharlene
Published: March 2015

'Restitution' as a Christian theological concept has received scant attention in the main and even less as an essential part of the discipling of youth. Drawing on data from an extensive ethnographic study in a South African township and informed by thorough theological reflection, this paper aims to outline a defensible theology of restitution. It considers both the need for, and requirements of restitution. as a reflection of spiritual witness. In particular the paper will cover both an Older and New Testament understanding of restitution; the effects of generational sin; how grace and restitution are interrelated, and the practical application of a theology of restitution, particularly for those who live in contexts of structural injustice (as perpetrators and victims).
Phylogenetic relationships of Ibervillea and Tumamoca (Coniandreae, Cucurbitaceae), two genera of the dry lands of North America
Authors: Lira Rafael , Sosa Victoria , Legaspi Talitha , Dávila Patricia
Published: March 2015

We examine the limits and phylogenetic relationships of Ibervillea and Tumamoca belonging to tribe Coniandreae in the Cucurbitaceae. These taxa are found in xeric areas from southern United States to Guatemala. There has been no previous phylogenetic studies considering all their taxa together, just partially. Furthermore, we include as well species of Dieterlea, another similar and sympatric genus which recognition is under debate, formerly considered as a synonym of Ibervillea. Using molecular and morphological characters we performed molecular and total evidence parsimony and Bayesian analyses. Our results confirm that species in Ibervillea and Dieterlea are part of a monophyletic group, supporting the integration of both genera as proposed in previous phylogenetic and taxonomic studies. By examining all the species of the three genera, our results are the first to suggest that Tumamoca is also part of this monophyletic group. Therefore we propose that the species of Ibervillea, Dieterlea, and one species of Tumamoca should be included into the same genus. According to the priority rule, Ibervillea is the name to be used. Tumamoca macdougalli needs to be transferred to Ibervillea and the combination is made here. We suggest that the second species in Tumamoca, T. mucronata, known by a single specimen that is lost, does not deserve recognition.
Three new species of the genus Corymbitodes Buysson, 1904 from Nepal and India with a description of the male of Corymbitodes kambaitiana Fleutiaux, 1942 (Coleoptera: Elateridae)
Authors: SCHIMMEL RAINER , TARNAWSKI DARIUSZ
Published: March 2015

In the present paper we introduce three new species of the genus Corymbitodes Buysson, 1904 from Nepal and from Northern India and provide the description of the male of C. kambaitiana Fleutiaux, 1942. No species of Corymbitodes was recorded from Nepal or India previously. The new species are C. bengalensis sp. nov. (India), C. chassaini sp. nov. (India), C. nepalensis sp. nov. (Nepal). C. kambaitiana Fleutiaux, 1942 was originally described based on female material from Myanmar. Here we describe the male based on material from Ganesh Himal in Nepal.