bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“The state of the heart”: Recent advances in engineering human cardiac tissue from pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Sirabella Dario , Cimetta Elisa , Vunjak-Novakovic Gordana
Published: June 2015

The pressing need for effective cell therapy for the heart has led to the investigation of suitable cell sources for tissue replacement. In recent years, human pluripotent stem cell research expanded tremendously, in particular since the derivation of human-induced pluripotent stem cells. In parallel, bioengineering technologies have led to novel approaches for in vitro cell culture. The combination of these two fields holds potential for in vitro generation of high-fidelity heart tissue, both for basic research and for therapeutic applications. However, this new multidisciplinary science is still at an early stage. Many questions need to be answered and improvements need to be made before clinical applications become a reality. Here we discuss the current status of human stem cell differentiation into cardiomyocytes and the combined use of bioengineering approaches for cardiac tissue formation and maturation in developmental studies, disease modeling, drug testing, and regenerative medicine.
An In Vitro Comparison of the Incorporation, Growth, and Chondrogenic Potential of Human Bone Marrow versus Adipose Tissue Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Clinically Relevant Cell Scaffolds Used for Cartilage Repair
Authors: Kohli Nupur , Wright Karina T. , Sammons Rachel L. , Jeys Lee , Snow Martyn , Johnson William E. B.
Published: June 2015

Aim

To compare the incorporation, growth, and chondrogenic potential of bone marrow (BM) and adipose tissue (AT) mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in scaffolds used for cartilage repair.

Methods

Human BM and AT MSCs were isolated, culture expanded, and characterised using standard protocols, then seeded into 2 different scaffolds, Chondro-Gide or Alpha Chondro Shield. Cell adhesion, incorporation, and viable cell growth were assessed microscopically and following calcein AM/ethidium homodimer (Live/Dead) staining. Cell-seeded scaffolds were treated with chondrogenic inducers for 28 days. Extracellular matrix deposition and soluble glycosaminoglycan (GAG) release into the culture medium was measured at day 28 by histology/immunohistochemistry and dimethylmethylene blue assay, respectively.

Results

A greater number of viable MSCs from either source adhered and incorporated into Chondro-Gide than into Alpha Chondro Shield. In both cell scaffolds, this incorporation represented less than 2% of the cells that were seeded. There was a marked proliferation of BM MSCs, but not AT MSCs, in Chondro-Gide. MSCs from both sources underwent chondrogenic differentiation following induction. However, cartilaginous extracellular matrix deposition was most marked in Chondro-Gide seeded with BM MSCs. Soluble GAG secretion increased in chondrogenic versus control conditions. There was no marked difference in GAG secretion by MSCs from either cell source.

Conclusion

Chondro-Gide and Alpha Chondro Shield were permissive to the incorporation and chondrogenic differentiation of human BM and AT MSCs. Chondro-Gide seeded with BM MSCs demonstrated the greatest increase in MSC number and deposition of a cartilaginous tissue.
Arc assisted ultrasonic seam welding of Mg/Al joints with Zn interlayer
Authors: Dai X. , Zhang H. , Zhang H. , Liu J. , Feng J.
Published: June 2015

6061 aluminium alloy and AZ31B magnesium alloy was successfully joined together with the addition of Zn interlayer by gas tungsten arc welding assisted hybrid ultrasonic seam welding. The effects of Zn interlayer on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the joints were investigated in detail. The results indicated that the Zn interlayer could restrain the formation of brittle Mg–Al IMCs, which were replaced by Mg–Zn IMCs. The maximum lap strength of the joints with Zn interlayer was ∼16.25 MPa, which was ∼30 increase over the joints without Zn interlayer. All the joint failures occurred by the interface mode rather than the pullout mode at the Mg/Zn interface.
Lepidocrocite-like TiO2 and TiO2(110)–(1 × 2) supported on W(100)
Authors: Harrison G. T. , Spadaro M. C. , Pang C. L. , Grinter D. C. , Yim C. M. , Luches P. , Thornton G.
Published: June 2015

Ultrathin films of TiO2 were grown on a W(100)–O(2 × 1) substrate and characterised with a combination of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and low energy electron diffraction. In addition to islands of rutile TiO2(110) with (1 × 1) termination that were reported previously, we also observed rutile TiO2(110) islands with a (1 × 2) film termination. A lepidocrocite-like TiO2 nanosheet was also observed on the W(100) surface. High resolution STM images show that the nanosheet grows in the principal orthogonal directions of the W(100) substrate and forms a commensurate (1 × 7) coincident cell.
Widespread rescue of Y-linked genes by gene movement to autosomes
Authors: Malone John H.
Published: June 2015

A new study provides evidence that gene transposition from sex chromosomes to autosomes is a conserved phenomenon across mammalian species that rescues dosage-sensitive genes.
Drosophila Imp iCLIP identifies an RNA assemblage coordinating F-actin formation
Authors: Hansen Heidi Theil , Rasmussen Simon Horskjær , Adolph Sidsel Kramshøj , Plass Mireya , Krogh Anders , Sanford Jeremy , Nielsen Finn Cilius , Christiansen Jan
Published: June 2015

Background

Post-transcriptional RNA regulons ensure coordinated expression of monocistronic mRNAs encoding functionally related proteins. In this study, we employ a combination of RIP-seq and short- and long-wave individual-nucleotide resolution crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (iCLIP) technologies in Drosophila cells to identify transcripts associated with cytoplasmic ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) containing the RNA-binding protein Imp.

Results

We find extensive binding of Imp to 3′ UTRs of transcripts that are involved in F-actin formation. A common denominator of the RNA–protein interface is the presence of multiple motifs with a central UA-rich element flanked by CA-rich elements. Experiments in single cells and intact flies reveal compromised actin cytoskeletal dynamics associated with low Imp levels. The former shows reduced F-actin formation and the latter exhibits abnormal neuronal patterning. This demonstrates a physiological significance of the defined RNA regulon.

Conclusions

Our data imply that Drosophila Imp RNPs may function as cytoplasmic mRNA assemblages that encode proteins which participate in actin cytoskeletal remodeling. Thus, they may facilitate coordinated protein expression in sub-cytoplasmic locations such as growth cones.
Anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-atherosclerotic effects of Pinus eldarica Medw. nut in hypercholesterolemic rabbits
Authors: Huseini Hasan Fallah , Anvari Maryam Sotoudeh , khoob Yaser Tajallizadeh , Rabbani Shahram , Sharifi Farshad , Arzaghi Seyed Masoud , Fakhrzadeh Hossein
Published: June 2015

Background

Previous studies suggest that chemical constituents present in Pinus eldarica Medw (P. eldarica) nut possess antioxidant properties that may positively influence lipid profile.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of P. eldarica nut on the experimental atherosclerosis development in hypercholesterolemic rabbits.

Methods

Forty male 6 months old white New Zealand rabbits (1.8–2 kg) were randomly assigned into five equal groups. One group was kept as control (normal) group, fed on standard rabbit diet and other 4 groups were fed on high cholesterol diet (HCD). Out of four HCD groups one group was kept as control (HCD) and other three groups were treated with different doses (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/day) of P. eldarica nut for 8 weeks. Percentage of aortic wall area changes as indication of atherosclerosis development and fasting blood cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglyceride levels were determined in all groups.

Results

The results indicate that fasting blood cholesterol and aortic atherosclerotic involvements in 200 mg/kg/day and 100 mg/kg/day P. eldarica nut extract treated groups significantly decreased as compared to the high cholesterol-diet control group.

Conclusion

P. eldarica nut lowers blood cholesterol level and aortic atherosclerotic involvement in hypercholesterolemic rabbits.
‘The governance of local infrastructure funding and financing’
Authors: O’Brien Peter , Pike Andy
Published: June 2015

The governance of infrastructure financing at the city and city-region scales is critical to the search for new and innovative funding mechanisms for infrastructure systems. The global financial crisis and economic downturn have focused attention on the role of infrastructure renewal and development in economic recovery and stimulus. Austerity and the fiscal consolidation of public finances have reinforced government efforts to reduce expenditure and debt, and secure private sector engagement and resources. Local actors in cities and city-regions have been compelled into finding new sources of private and even international capital, developing innovative business models for infrastructure provision and establishing new institutional and governance arrangements. This article analyses the context and emergent infrastructure funding and financing approaches, models and practices being formulated as part of a review of the City Deals in the UK. The experience of the City Deals raises critical questions about the emergent and recombinant forms of urban leadership and governance in cities and city-regions and the nature of centre-local relationships in the austerity state.
Nonminimum phase deconvolution in the log domain: A sparse inversion approach
Authors: Guitton Antoine , Claerbout Jon
Published: June 2015

Being disturbed by the discrepancy between the Ricker wavelet and minimum phase wavelets, we wondered if a sparseness criterion could get us deconvolved data with the event polarity being more clearly evident. Five data sets found it does. The sparseness criterion we used is a hyperbolic penalty function. It ranged from [Formula: see text] at small residuals to [Formula: see text] at large residuals. The main pitfall was that introducing negative filter lags introduced a null space (obviously so for Gaussian data). The null space demanded a regularization. We found a formulation in the domain of the Fourier transform of a log spectrum, in which a Ricker-style regularization appeared. Curiously, this regularization eliminated the leg jumps. A quasi-Newton solver was faster than that of our earlier work, a combination of conjugate directions with a Newton solver.
Thyroid Status, Cardiac Function, and Mortality in Patients With Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wang Wenyao , Guan Haixia , Gerdes A. Martin , Iervasi Giorgio , Yang Yuejin , Tang Yi-Da
Published: June 2015

Context:

Previous studies claiming a relationship between thyroid dysfunction and poor prognosis of heart failure (HF) had a major limitation in that they included patients with different etiologies.

Objective:

With complete information of thyroid function profile from 458 consecutive patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy, we tested the hypothesis that thyroid status can independently influence mortality in patients with HF.

Design, Patients, and Outcome Measure:

The original cohort consisted of 572 consecutive patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy, and 458 patients remained at the end of follow-up. All patients took thyroid function tests and other regular examinations in hospital. The risk of mortality was evaluated based on free T3, TSH, and the whole thyroid function profile, respectively.

Results:

The most frequent thyroid dysfunction was subclinical hypothyroidism (n = 41), followed by subclinical hyperthyroidism (n = 35), low-T3 syndrome (n = 17), and hypothyroidism (n = 12). Logistic analysis showed log-TSH and free T3 as independent predictors of exacerbated cardiac function (New York Heart Association stages III–IV vs New York Heart Association stages I–II). During the follow-up (17 ± 8 mo), 111 cumulative deaths occurred. Hypothyroidism was the strongest predictor of mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 4.189; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.118–8.283)], followed by low-T3 syndrome (HR 3.147; 95% CI 1.558–6.355) and subclinical hypothyroidism (HR 2.869; 95% CI 1.817–4.532). Subclinical hyperthyroidism showed no significant impact.

Conclusions:

We found a clear association between thyroid dysfunction and increased risk of mortality in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy with HF. These results suggest that monitoring thyroid function in HF patients is necessary, and further studies on the treatment of HF with thyroid dysfunction are needed.
Physiological Levels of Melatonin Relate to Cognitive Function and Depressive Symptoms: The HEIJO-KYO Cohort
Authors: Obayashi Kenji , Saeki Keigo , Iwamoto Junko , Tone Nobuhiro , Tanaka Kunihiko , Kataoka Hiroshi , Morikawa Masayuki , Kurumatani Norio
Published: June 2015

Context:

In contrast with randomized controlled trials, observational studies have suggested that physiological levels of melatonin are reduced in patients with dementia or depression, but the relationship has not been evaluated in large populations.

Objective:

The objective was to determine the relationships between physiological levels of melatonin and cognitive function and depressive symptoms.

Design and Participants:

A cohort of 1105 community-dwelling elderly individuals was enrolled in this cross-sectional study (mean age, 71.8 ± 7.1 y).

Measures:

Urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin excretion (UME) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE; n = 935) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS; n = 1097) scores were measured as indices of physiological melatonin levels, cognitive function, and depressive symptoms, respectively.

Results:

With increases in UME quartiles, the prevalence of cognitive impairment (MMSE score ≤ 26) and depressed mood (GDS score ≥ 6) significantly decreased (P for trend = .003 and .012, respectively). In multivariate logistic regression models, after adjusting for confounders such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and sleep/wake cycles, higher UME levels were significantly associated with lower odds ratios (ORs) for cognitive impairment and depressed mood (ORs: Q1 = 1.00; Q2 = 0.88 and 0.76; Q3 = 0.66 and 0.85; Q4 = 0.67 and 0.53; P for trend = .023 and .033, respectively). In addition, the highest UME group showed a significantly lower OR for depressed mood than the lowest UME group (Q4 vs Q1: OR, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.32–0.89; P = .033). UME levels above the median value were significantly associated with a lower OR for cognitive impairment, even after further adjustment for depressive symptoms (OR = 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.55–0.99; P = .043).

Conclusions:

Significant associations of higher physiological melatonin levels with lower prevalence of cognitive impairment and depressed mood were revealed in a large general elderly population. The association between physiological melatonin levels and cognitive function was independent of depressive symptoms.
miR-22 and miR-29a Are Members of the Androgen Receptor Cistrome Modulating LAMC1 and Mcl-1 in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Pasqualini Lorenza , Bu Huajie , Puhr Martin , Narisu Narisu , Rainer Johannes , Schlick Bettina , Schäfer Georg , Angelova Mihaela , Trajanoski Zlatko , Börno Stefan T. , Schweiger Michal R. , Fuchsberger Christian , Klocker Helmut
Published: June 2015

The normal prostate as well as early stages and advanced prostate cancer (PCa) require a functional androgen receptor (AR) for growth and survival. The recent discovery of microRNAs (miRNAs) as novel effector molecules of AR disclosed the existence of an intricate network between AR, miRNAs and downstream target genes. In this study DUCaP cells, characterized by high content of wild-type AR and robust AR transcriptional activity, were chosen as the main experimental model. By integrative analysis of chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-seq) and microarray expression profiling data, miRNAs putatively bound and significantly regulated by AR were identified. A direct AR regulation of miR-22, miR-29a, and miR-17-92 cluster along with their host genes was confirmed. Interestingly, endogenous levels of miR-22 and miR-29a were found to be reduced in PCa cells expressing AR. In primary tumor samples, miR-22 and miR-29a were less abundant in the cancerous tissue compared with the benign counterpart. This specific expression pattern was associated with a differential DNA methylation of the genomic AR binding sites. The identification of laminin gamma 1 (LAMC1) and myeloid cell leukemia 1 (MCL1) as direct targets of miR-22 and miR-29a, respectively, suggested a tumor-suppressive role of these miRNAs. Indeed, transfection of miRNA mimics in PCa cells induced apoptosis and diminished cell migration and viability. Collectively, these data provide additional information regarding the complex regulatory machinery that guides miRNAs activity in PCa, highlighting an important contribution of miRNAs in the AR signaling.
Animal Techne
Authors: Nurka Camille
Published: June 2015

Between the recent feminist interest in relocating posthumanism through animal becomings and the emerging field of trans studies, there arise new possibilities for theoretical exchange between the “post” and the “trans.” This article considers how the fields of feminism, trans studies, and posthumanism are actively transforming our thinking around “sex” and “the human.” It proposes that these theoretical approaches are affectively conjoined in their challenge to the concept of preternatural gender as a defining aspect of human-centered sociality. This is because sex and humanity are coconstitutive categories inviting political engagement, especially since the birth of the human in secular, modern thought, beginning with the scientific revolution, as the point at which the human began to break away from the divine. The newly formed concept of humanity that emerged in the seventeenth century was contingent on a highly structured, essentialist conception of sexual difference. On the one hand, the development of the human was explained through a break with the animal in hypotheses about the shift from animal sociality to human civilization; but, on the other, sociobiological theories—pre- and post-Darwin—sought to explain the human “in nature.” Both, however, contained essentialist conceptions of sexual difference in order to articulate the human, whether in its difference to or continuity with the animal. By contrast, posthuman and trans becomings have produced new configurations of bodies that are changing the way we conceptualize human, animal, nature, and culture.
What Is It Like to Be a Human?
Authors: Colebrook Claire
Published: June 2015

Rather than regarding the relation between humanity and animality as an important supplemental question when considering claims of personhood or ethical worth, this essay makes two claims that place the thresholds among species at the foundation of problems of ethical recognition. First, all modes of recognition presuppose a norm of human likeness and species solidarity; rather than expand this range of human inclusiveness (that relies on differentiation), we might think of attributing political and ethical worth to those with whom we feel neither solidarity nor significant difference. Second, rather than see the self as a person or body that possesses sexuality as an individuating predicate, we might think of a milieu of individuating possibilities from which relatively differentiated selves emerge.
Alligator Earrings and the Fishhook in the Face
Authors: Seymour Nicole
Published: June 2015

This article considers the performances of “animal drag” that appear across the affiliated US media projects of Jackass (the television program and film franchise) and Wildboyz (the television program). Drawing on transgender studies scholarship, as well as recent work in affect theory, animal studies, and environmental studies, Nicole Seymour argues that these performances—which include, for example, a human inserting a fishhook in his face before being thrown into shark-infested waters—constitute an extension of this media corpus's general investment in affective interconnectivity. As Seymour shows, such performances ask us to feel along with the performers, which includes feeling along with them as animals. Paying attention to the comic as well as the tragic resonances of animal drag, the article outlines the ethical role that nonserious affective modes can play in probing the trans-, or intersectional and interdependent, nature of human and nonhuman life.
Artist Statement
Authors: Wagner Anthony Clair
Published: June 2015

“Visible Monstrosity as Empowerment” asks, How can we own the transgender imaginary? Anthony Clair Wagner uses the figure of the monster in their art to reflect the stigmatization of monsterized others, specifically transsexuals. Wagner proposes that refusing hegemonic shame and boundaries through embracing the stigmatizing figure of the monster helps deconstruct the violent hegemonic imaginary. They call for monstrous visibility. In this artist statement Wagner explains the importance of the appropriation of the figure of the monster in their art as a tool for empowerment.
Research on Teaching Economics to Undergraduates
Authors: Allgood Sam , Walstad William B. , Siegfried John J.
Published: June 2015

This survey summarizes the main research findings about teaching economics to undergraduates. After briefly reviewing the history of research on undergraduate economic education, it discusses the status of the economics major—numbers and trends, goals, coursework, outcomes, and the principles courses. Some economic theory is used to explain the likely effects of pedagogical decisions of faculty and the learning choices that students make. Major results from empirical research are reviewed from the professor perspective on such topics as teaching methods, online technology, class size, and textbooks. Studies of student learning are discussed in relation to study time, grades, attendance, math aptitude, and cheating. The last section discusses changes in the composition of faculty who teach undergraduate economics and effects from changes in instructional technology and then presents findings from the research about measuring teaching effectiveness and the value of teacher training. (JEL A22, I23, J44)
Simulation of Indicators of the Functional Systems of Human Body on the Basis of Three Compartmental Two-Cluster Control System
Authors: Берестин  , Berestin D. , Даянова  , Dayanova D. , Вохмина  , Vokhmina Yu. , Игуменов  , Igumenov D.
Published: June 2015

Processes simulation is one of the main directions in science and technology. In the presence of a simple model of the process, the results of the process before it starts can be obtained. The simulation of complex processes (systems) within the standard methods of computing and simulation software runs into difficulties because of the chaotic dynamics of such systems. The number of models that allow to describe the complex biological processes of dynamic systems is extremely small, because it is impossible to repeat the same results of experiments based on deterministic or stochastic models. The authors propose a model that allows the description of the state vector of a person within tree compartmental two-cluster systems management. The model is implemented using the package of applied programs that demonstrate the performance of each cluster separately. On the model output signals are obtained, they are compared with real experiments and the resulting signals. Signals obtained at the output of the simulation model signals show different values of external control actions in which the change in the properties of the output signal. Control signal and the output signals respectively were divided into four main components that have the same name counterparts with complex biological dynamical systems.
Contact Dissolve of the Gallstones in Experiment
Authors: Коновалова  , Konovalova O. , Лобанов  , Lobanov S. , Хышиктуев  , Khyshiktuev B. , Размахнин  , Razmakhnin E. , Кичигина  , Kichigina V.
Published: June 2015

In the experiment the possibility of using the dissolving mixture of octanoic acid-glycerol in a ratio of 1:1 for the treatment of gallstone disease in patients with high risk of operative treatment was justified. In in vitro experiments (n=107) using the proposed mixture, the time of dissolution of the bile concrements in the minute in terms of 1 mg mass of gallstones was identified: K=5,757 (n=51). The authors noted that the solubility of gallstones depends on their degree of mineralization. So, in a group with a low degree of concrements mineralization K´=4,256 (n=15), with an average K´=6,044 (n=17), high K´=6,971 (n=19). In the experiments in vivo on 35 adult rabbits after simulation of gallstone disease through cholecystostomy, the introduction of solvent mixture at the rate of 0.2 ml/kg of body weight once daily was carried out. Low mineralized concretions dissolved in all cases (after double injection), moderately mineralized – with the introduction of 3 days or more, and highly mineralized on the 4 day of treatment. After treatment, histologically and biochemically, pronounced toxic effect of the drug wasn’t detected. The use of contact litholyse in practice will significantly reduce the invasiveness of the treatment of patients with gallstone disease and reduce recovery time.
About the Optimization of Breast Screening by means of Microwave Radiothermometry
Authors: Черкесова  , Cherkesova S. , Мазепа  , Mazepa E. , Заменчик  , Zamenchik T. , Панкова  , Pankova G.
Published: June 2015

The article presents the results of the optimization of breast screening based on microwave radiothermometry due to the development of a test system for express diagnostics of malignant breast tumors and identification of female patients at risk. The current program of investigation involves a time-consuming history taking and a preliminary measurement of the temperature at the control points.

The purpose of the research was to find out is there a relationship between the presence or absence of positive an-swers to anamnestic questions of the program and changes of temperature of the breast. Another task was to determine the degree of dependency of temperature changes in the mammary gland on the diameter of the gland and the temperature in the axillary area and other control points. Three groups of female patients were examined: healthy subjects, risk group (with benign nodules) and breast cancer patients. In the group of cancer female patients the temperature data of healthy mammary glands were studied separately. The results showed that the temperature changes depend on the age and the diameter of the gland only for healthy subjects. The temperature in the axillary area and the control points of the study has a high degree of direct correlation with the temperature changes in the mammary gland in all groups of female patients.
Effects of Metabolites of Bacteria Bacillus SP. from Permafrost on Speed Repair of Skin Wound
Authors: Бажин  , Bazhin A. , Калёнова  , Kalenova L. , Новикова  , Novikova M.
Published: June 2015

Fossil bacteria are evolutionarily valuable forms of life. In permafrost conditions for a very long time, bacteria can develop a unique repair mechanisms of structural and functional defects. In the experiment on mice of BALB/c it was revealed the presence of high reparative capacity in fossil bacteria strain MG8 Bacillus sp., isolated from samples of relict permafrost, and their metabolic products – metabolites that can be delegated to other living systems. Ability to regulate reparative processes in macroorganism shows in MG8 in the doses less than 20×1103 microbial cells and topically on the wound surface. The “thermal" metabolites, produced by culturing the bacteria at 37°C, are leaders modulation of repair processes in healing skin blemishes. Local application on the wound ointment with "heat" metabolites allows to accelerate by 30% the process of reparation relative to placebo, by 20% – relative to the medicinal product "Solcoseryl" and by 10% – faster than under the influence of bacteria. Dynamics of morphogenetic processes in the healing of skin defect under MG8 bacteria effect and their metabolites is correlated with the dynamics of immune system activity. The sequence of changes in the activity of various components of the immune system (cellular factors inherent immunoresistance – cell immunity humoral immunity) corresponds to the stage of development of the repair process (damage – inflammation – recovery). Mechanisms of regulation of repair processes in the immune system consistent with the general laws regulating the inflammatory process and changes in waves: the predominant increase in the activity of pro-inflammatory mechanisms replaced predominant anti-inflammatory mechanisms of increased activity of the immune system. Using strain MG8 metabolites allows to optimize regenerative process, to reduce time of wound contraction and the formation of scar tissue, to full restore of the coat, so they can be modulators of the wound process, with a predominance of regeneration mechanisms
Experience of the Use of Chondroitin Sulfate in the Recovery Treatment of Posttraumatic Chondropathy of the Knee in Athletes Playing Sports
Authors: Сахарова  , Sakharova M. , Капустина  , Kapustina N. , Смоленский  , Smolenskiy A. , Абдувосидов  , Abduvosidov Kh.
Published: June 2015

The article presents results of research on the effectiveness of comprehensive rehabilitation treatment of athletes with post-traumatic chondropathies of knee joints by means of chondro-protective therapy (chondroitin sulfate injections). The study involved 60 athletes playing sports. Athletes were examined through a survey questionnaire Knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score - Scale Exodus of injury and osteoarthritis of the knee joint, as well as clinical examination, ultrasound examination of the knee joints, bilateral isokinetic testing of the muscles of the flexor-extensor of the knee joint. 2 groups of 30 athletes (the main group and the comparison group) had course of treatment: physical therapy by alternating magnetic field, therapeutic physical training, massage. Athletes of the main group was additionally applied intramuscularly drug chondroitin-sulfate (Astragal). The study showed greater efficacy of the treatment of athletes in the main group, this is confirmed by a significant decrease of pain syndrome, improving of functional status of the knee joints, increase sporting activity and improving the quality of life of athletes according to the survey; improving the biomechanical characteristics of the periarticular muscles and deficit reduction extensor tibiae between damaged and intact limb at angular velocities of 60 and 180 0/с, the positive dynamics of the ultrasonic examination of the knee joints.
Modern Approaches to Treatment of Lactostasis
Authors: Милькевич  , Milkevich I. , Гусейнов  , Guseynov A. , Гусейнов  , Guseynov T.
Published: June 2015

In clinical practice the treatment of lactose are unresolved problem and are relevant. The correct choice of tactics and comprehensive treatment provide not only the elimination of stagnation of milk, but also ensure the prevention of lactational mastitis. The use of complex measures, change the multiplicity and rules of lactation, namely: feeding by means of two breasts every 1.5-2 hours, if necessary – every hour – are effective in the treatment of lactosis. To eliminate the stagnation of milk it is necessary to use heat, gentle massage of the breast, pumping, including the use of a breast pump. Pumping milk residues should be up feelings of comfort in the breast. The main component of lactosis therapy is the use of drugs. The use of drugs which affect the reduction of prolactin levels (dostinex, parlodel) with preparations that improve the flow of milk (progestogel, oxytocin) is optimal in therapy. Combined use of dostinex with oxytocin in combination with therapeutic interventions is more effective and fast therapy. Only an integrated approach allows to achieve a therapeutic effect on condition of ensuring monitoring of devel-opment of pathological process and an exception of development of mastitis. In the absence of expected effect within a day it is necessary to carry out careful differential and diagnostic procedure for exceptions lactational mastitis, including repeated breast ultrasound and needle biopsy by means of thick needle.
Charactecteristics of Liver Tumors by means of ARFI-elastography
Authors: Гудилина  , Gudilina E. , Вишленкова  , Vishlenkova E. , Лепэдату  , Lepedatu P. , Синюкова  , Sinyukova G. , Данзанова  , Danzanova T. , Костякова  , Kostyakova L.
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine the possibility of ARFI- elastography for diagnosis of tumors of the liver. The study included 95 patients with liver tumors. 22 patients were excluded from the study because of the deep location of the formation or the inability to measure the speed performance. Therefore the tumors in 73 patients were obtained by ARFI-elastography and analyzed. Verification of the diagnosis was achieved by histological examination of the material in 93% of cases and by MRI, CT in 7% of cases. Patients were divided by diagnosis: 4 – with benign tumors, 33 – with hepatocellular carcinoma, 4 – with cholangio-carcinoma, 19 – with metastatic colorectal cancer, 13 – with metastases of other cancer. Benign tumors included two focal nodular hyperplasia and hepatocellular adenoma, one cavernous hemangioma a large size. The obtained results were compared with normal liver parenchyma in 77 people. Average speed was: 2.83 m/s in the benign, 1.55 m/s in the normal liver parenchyma, 2.5 m/s at the nodes of hepatocellular carcinoma, 2.66 m/s at the nodes cholangio-carcinomar, 2.79 m/s in the metastasis of colorectal cancer, 2.79 m/s in the remaining metastases. Associated threshold value for the diagnosis of the majority of malignant tumors, it is necessary to consider the speed of over 2 m/s. Sensitivity groups ranged from 59% to 100% and a specificity of 70% to 86%. The results indicate higher speed performance parameters (mean, median, threshold values > 2.3 m/s) in benign tumors. This is due to a small group, as well as the large size of entities – from 5.0 to 24.0 cm, indicating that the long-term course of the disease with the development of fibrosis in them, so the stiffness of education becomes higher. These data prove that the quantitative elastography shear wave can be used as an additional diagnostic tool in oncology, but further accumulation of scientific data, since the values of the groups overlap.
Intensive Therapy of the Intrahospital Infection in Office of Reanimation and Intensive Therapy
Authors: Киреев  , Kireev Semen , Матвеенкова  , Matveenkova L.
Published: June 2015

The research carried out at the Reanimation and Intensive Care Department of Tula Region Clinical Hospital showed that the microflora of causative agents of intrahospital infections is dominated by gram-negative flora (75% of the revealed strains), with the most etiologically significant microorganisms being in most cases P. Aeruginosa – 50%, E. Coli and S. Epidermidis in equal shares, 17% each, to a lesser degree – Enterobacter (14%) and Acinetobacter (11%). Associations of microorganisms were found in 14% of cases. Choosing the medicines of antibacterial therapy of intra-hospital infections caused by bacilli the following facts should be taken into account: on the one hand, carbapenems stay active in relation to most species, on the other hand, we see proliferation of panresistant strains P.Aeruginosa re-sistant to imipenem and meropenem. Taking all that into account, it is especially urgentto decrease the selective pressure of carbapenems by choosing alternative medicines whose activity in relation to other representatives of hospital flora has been proved. The revealed strains of K. Pneumoniae have proved to be sensitive to amikacin. E. Coli cultures were sensitive to amikacin and gentamicin.
New Method for Mechanical Work Registration of Isolated Non-Fixed Frog Heart
Authors: Правдивцев  , Pravdivtsev V. , Сосин  , Sosin D. , Евсеев  , Evseev A.
Published: June 2015

The purpose of article was a presentation of the new method for mechanical work registration of an isolated non-fixed frog heart, based on dynamic determining of its bio-impedance with possibility of simultaneous ECG registration. During experiments the bio-impedance of a grass frog heart (Rana temporaria) placed in Ringer solution for coldblooded animals have been determined continually by using of the computer reographic apparatus “Reospectrum” (“Neurosoft”, Russia). For proving of the method sensitivity was performed stimulation of a heart by adrenalin in all experiments (n=10). The results were illustrated by both impedance-cardiogram (ICG) and electrocardiogram fragments recorded synchronously. It have been established that in 4 min after hormone application the heart rate rises in 50-70%. The highest rate usually was observed in 6-8 min after stimulation by adrenalin. After 8 min the heart rate became 2.5 times faster than initial parameter. “Amplitude” of contractions changes in phase too. The largest positive inotropic effect of adrenalin was observed in 4-5 min – the amplitude of ICG waves increase in 126.6% in comparison with initial point. After amplitude peak the significant decrease of waves was registered in 14-16 min after the application in comparison with initial parameter. The main technical achievement of the method for mechanical work registration of isolated heart is possibility to obtain required data characterized contractile activity of different arias of frog heart muscle easily and simply without risk of myocardium injure.
Ion-Molecular Memory Model. Mechanisms of Information Search in the Library Memory
Authors: Герасимов  , Gerasimov I. , Яшин  , Yashin A.
Published: June 2015

In the context of developed by the authors of the memory model, the mechanism of information search in the library memory were studied. The authors proposed consistent variants of such mechanisms from the positions of biophysics, chemistry and mathematical logic. As in the previous articles, the role of the spectrum of the activity of hydrogen ions was highlighted. Events (facts) are placed in the library memory on the time axis - stratigraphy memory (according to V.V. Nabokov) and are subject to internal chronotype (according to A.A. Ukhtomsky). The authors touched a question upon vectorization time in biological systems in relation to the functioning of mechanisms of information search in the library memory. The authors note that the vectorization time in biosystems is the basis of the "speed" work of all mechanisms of memory. The mechanism of memory functions; for example, sleep, even deep - its essence is the work of the subconscious, i.e. the reference to the images and content of memory. Even taking into account the principle of anthropomorphism in the design of technical devices memory by individual, don’t associate characteristic for these devices "compression" of information from the brain work: here the information is not "shrinks" and recoded, contributing to lower power consumption of the process and reducing the overall entropy. The authors argue that the geometry of the drive with inherent spectra of the activity of hydrogen ions it is logically to consider the characteristics of similarity. This characteristic has fractal dimension that gives some level of comfort to compare patterns, which were discussed in this work. Identical and similar items patterns contribute equally to the formation of fractal dimension.
Dependence of the Biological Activity of the Permafrost Bacteria Bacillus Sp. on Temperature
Authors: Субботин  , Subbotin A. , Бажин  , Bazhin A. , Калёнова  , Kalenova L. , Новикова  , Novikova M.
Published: June 2015

Fossil bacteria in permafrost evolutionarily adapted to low temperatures (-5ºC), modern probiotics bacteria are adapted to living in warm-blooded animals (37ºC). It was found that at -5ºC, the enzymatic activity of fossil bacteria Bacillus sp. MG8 is a minimal strain. At lowering the incubation temperature to -16ºC, the enzymatic activity of bacte-ria MG8 increases in 3 times, at the temperature 42ºC - in a 1.5times relative IP5832 strain probiotic bacteria Bacillus cereus. Fossil strain Bacillus sp. MG8 and probiotic bacterial strain B.cereus IP5832 at incubation temperature 37ºC practically don’t differ from each other in the enzymatic activity in vitro and toxicity in laboratory animals in vivo. Incubation fossil bacteria Bacillus sp. at -5ºC allows to reduce their toxicity in warm-blooded animals in 5 times in comparison with Bacillus cereus JP5832, and to increase immunostimulating effect in the doses from 0,005•106 to 50•106 microbial cells per mouse. The obtained data show that fossil saprophytic bacteria strain MG8 Bacillus sp. from permafrost are less toxic to modern mammals than even bacilli-probiotics for medical purposes.
Heart of the matter: FH and delivering on NICE guidance
Authors: Gritzmacher Lisa
Published: June 2015

This article outlines the development of services to identify and treat familial hypercholesterolaemia, as well as the journey of one senior nurse from a coronary care-based role to a clinical nurse specialist (CNS) role in this expanding field. It covers the processes used to inform the development of these services and how these helped to shape the service design and development.
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
Authors: Mendes Aysha
Published: June 2015

This section presents a concise overview of the treatments and clinical procedures regularly carried out in the field of cardiovascular care. This ‘back-to-basics’ article aims to refresh nurses' knowledge on correct practice, as well as introduce students and junior nurses to procedures
Use of a care bundle to reduce mortality following emergency laparotomy
Authors: Quiney N , Huddart S , Peden C , Dickinson M
Published: June 2015

Emergency laparotomy is a common intra-abdominal procedure with outcomes recognized to be poor. Efforts are being made to improve these outcomes, both nationally and internationally. This article describes the methodology of a successfully implemented collaborative quality improvement project that improved outcomes following emergency laparotomy in four NHS trusts.
Positive Impact of Fungal Histopathology on Immunocompromised Pediatric Patients With Histology-Proven Invasive Fungal Infection
Authors: Dekio Fumiko , Bhatti Tricia R. , Zhang Sean X. , Sullivan Kaede V.
Published: June 2015

Objectives:

We investigated the performance and the clinical impact of histologic examination of infected tissue in patients with suspected invasive fungal infection (IFI) at a tertiary pediatric center.

Methods:

Unique episodes of IFI were identified from January 1, 2001, through December 31, 2012. Surgical pathology reports, fungal culture results, and clinical data were abstracted from medical records.

Results:

Forty-seven patients with IFI were identified. Each patient had one episode of IFI. Risk factors included chemotherapy for an oncologic condition (n = 35), hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (n = 6), solid organ transplantation (n = 4), and primary immunodeficiency (n = 2). Tissue was obtained from deep subcutaneous tissue (n = 21), visceral organs (14 lungs, five livers, and one spleen), or the sinonasal cavity (n = 6). Fungal culture was ordered in 40 of the 47 episodes of IFI. Fungus grew in 27 (68%) of the 40 cultures submitted, and all isolates were concordant with histology. Medical records were available for 36 (77%) of 47 patients. Communication of histology results prompted changes in antifungal therapy 64% of the time. This included initiation of antifungal therapy in 13 patients who were not previously receiving therapy. Fifteen (42%) patients underwent surgical excision within 48 hours of histologic diagnosis.

Conclusions:

Histology can provide rapid, accurate, and clinically actionable information to clinicians caring for children with IFI.
Diferentes percepciones de la sequía en España: adaptación, catastrofismo e intentos de corrección
Authors: Morales Gil Alfredo , Olcina Cantos Jorge , Rico Amorós Antonio Manuel
Published: June 2015

La percepción del fenómeno climático de la sequía ha evolucionado en relación con la transformación económica y la modificación de los hábitos de vida y de consumo ocurridos en los últimos cincuenta años en la sociedad española. La secuencia seca de 1966-67, de consecuencias económicas importantes en las tierras del sureste ibérico, marca el cambio de la tradicional adaptación a la reducción de lluvias a su consideración como secuencia catastrófica consolidándose esta percepción en los episodios más recientes de 1978-84 y 1992-96. El aumento desmesurado de las demandas y una poco eficaz planificación de los recursos hídricos está en el origen de este modo de entender un hecho natural.
Understanding self-esteem of Asian American adolescents: Examining their domain specific self-esteem
Authors: Teresa Pyon
Published: June 2015

This study examined how Asian culture influences Asian American adolescents’ self-esteem by comparing their domain specific self-esteem with that of Caucasian American adolescents. It hypothesized that if Asian culture has a strong influence on Asian American adolescents’ self-esteem, family and school would be the two most important domains for their self-esteem since family solidarity and educational success are considered to be important features of Asian culture. 134 Asian American adolescents and 134 Caucasian American adolescents participated in the study. The data was analyzed by a 2x2 (sex and ethnicity) MANOVA and multiple regression analysis. The result reveals that peers and body image are the two most important domains for global self-esteem for both Asian American and Caucasian American adolescents. Contrary to the stereotypical image of Asian American adolescents, the finding reveals that they consider their peer relationships and how others perceive their physical attractiveness more important than their school achievements and family when they evaluate their self-worth. The finding suggests that Asian culture alone cannot explain Asian American adolescents’ self-esteem, but other factors such as the acculturation effect that takes place as Asian American adolescents deal with both Asian and American cultures, and their experiences as a racial minority must be considered in order to understand their self-esteem more accurately. As Korean society experiences a rapid growth of the multicultural adolescent population in recent years, this study provides helpful implications for Korean educators to understand these students of different backgrounds.