bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of the Bursicon-Containing Neurones in Abdominal Ganglia of the Tobacco Hornworm, Manduca Sexta
Authors: Taghert Paul H. , Truman James W.
Published: April 2021

The abdominal ganglion neurones responsible for the secretion of the peptide hormone bursicon from the transverse nerves of the tobacco hornworm Manduca sexta have been localized. Each unfused abdominal ganglion produced bursicon during adult development. The hormone was then transported to the next posterior transverse nerve for subsequent release following adult emergence. Of the two efferent pathways that connect ganglia to posterior transverse nerves, only one had ultrastructural features consistent with a neurosecretory function. All axons in this pathway contained numerous, elementary, dense-cored granules with diameters ranging from 100 to 300 nm.

In pharate adults, cobalt back-filling of this neurosecretory pathway revealed two groups of cell bodies in abdominal ganglia : three dorso-laterally and eight at the mid-line. Hormonal activity was present in lateral regions of the ganglion but not in mid-line regions. In the dorso-lateral region, four blueish cell bodies could be seen in the living tissue. The two combined clusters of four cells from both sides of the ganglion contained more than 60% of the bursicon activity present in the entire ganglion. More careful dissection of the cluster detected the presence of activity in cell pairs and individual members.

Individual dye-fills of these blue cells demonstrated that three of these were the three lateral neurones that were back-filled from the transverse nerve. The fourth blue cell may be identical to a neurone whose axon travels in the descending, contralateral connective and exits the nervous system via the next posterior ganglion. On the basis of dendritic geometry, each of the neurones in the bursicon cell cluster could be identified as a unique, individual neurone.
H+ Excretion in the Marine Teleost Parophrys Vetulus
Authors: McDonald D. G. , Walker R. L. , Wilkes P. R. H. , Wood C. M.
Published: April 2021

This study examined the branchial, renal and blood acid-base responses of a marine teleost to intravascular infusion of mineral acid (HC1 at 1000 μequiv/kg). In all animals the renal response was insignificant for at least 3 days following infusion. Two types of branchial and blood acid-base response were seen. Either the infused load disappeared rapidly from the extracellular into the intracellular compartment and was slowly cleared from the body (+16h following infusion) or, more commonly, remained in the extracellular compartment until rapidly cleared by a pronounced increase in branchial excretion. In the latter the amount excreted exceeded that infused by about twofold on average. These responses are discussed in relation to those of freshwater teleosts.
The neuromuscular basis of rhythmic struggling movements in embryos of Xenopus laevis
Authors: Kahn J. A. , Roberts A.
Published: April 2021

Xenopus embryos struggle when restrained. Struggling involves rhythmic movements of large amplitude, in which waves of bending propagate from the tail to the head.

Underlying this, electrical activity in myotomal muscles occurs in rhythmic bursts that alternate on either side of a segment. Bursts in ipsilateral segments occur in a caudo-rostral sequence.

Curarized embryos can generate motor nerve activity in a struggling pattern in the absence of rhythmic sensory stimulation; the pattern is therefore produced by a central pattern generator.
Differences between directly measured and calculated values for cardiac output in the dogfish: a criticism of the Fick method
Authors: Metcalfe J. D. , Butler P. J.
Published: April 2021

Cardiac output has been measured directly, and calculated by the Fick method, during normoxia and hypoxia in six artificially perfused dogfish (Scyliorhinus canicula) in an attempt to estimate the accuracy of this method in fish. The construction and operation of a simple extra-corporeal cardiac bypass pump is described. This pump closely mimics the flow pulse profiles of the fish’s own heart and allows complete control of both cardiac stroke volume and systolic and diastolic periods.

During normoxia there was no significant difference between directly measured and calculated values for cardiac output. However, some shunting of blood past the respiratory surface of the gills may have been obscured by cutaneous oxygen uptake. In response to hypoxia there is either a decrease in the amount of blood being shunted past the respiratory surface of the gills and/or an increase in cutaneous oxygen uptake such that the Fick calculated value for cardiac output is on average 38% greater than the measured, value. It is proposed that the increase in the levels of circulating catecholamines that is reported to occur in response to hypoxia in this species may play an important role in the observed response to hypoxia. The results are discussed in terms of their implications for the calculation of cardiac output by the Fick principle in fish.
Energetic Cost of Running With Different Muscle Temperatures in Savannah Monitor Lizards
Authors: Rome Lawrence C.
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the energetic cost of locomotion was independent of muscle temperature, or if it tripled with a 10 °C increase in temperature, like the cost of generating isometric force in isolated muscle preparations. For a given running speed of Savannah Monitor lizards, the energetic cost of locomotion (the difference between running and resting metabolism) was the same when muscle temperature was 28·5 °C as when it was 38 °C. It was also found that stride frequency and posture did not change with temperature, indicating that the average force exerted by the lizards’ muscles during locomotion at the two temperatures was the same. This suggests that the cost of generating force in vivo is independent of temperature. Several possible explanations of the apparent difference between in vivo and in vitro muscle energetics are discussed.
Electrical Activity and Structure of Retinal Cells of the Aplysia Eye: II. Photoreceptors
Authors: Jacklet Jon W. , Rolerson Celine
Published: April 2021

Photoreceptors of the eye of Aplysia were studied by intracellular recording and Lucifer yellow injection. Two basic photoreceptor types were observed, R and H. Two other types of cells were occasionally encountered: one was neurone-like, giving only a slight depolarization but large action potentials (APs) in response to light ; the other was presumably glial. Type R photoreceptors were found in the pigmented layer of the retina, had large distal (photoreceptor) processes extending toward the lens and an axon in the optic nerve. They are probably the large, microvillous receptor type with vesicle-filled cytoplasm observed previously in electron microscope studies. Action potentials were observed in the axon but not the cell body of the R receptor. The light response was an increasing conductance, 2 component depolarization followed by hyperpolarization. All 3 components were affected by light adaptation. Electrical coupling between R receptors and secondary neurones was apparent and the system produces the synchronous compound action potentials (CAPs) in the optic nerve. Type H photoreceptors gave a slight depolarization to light with APs, followed by a hyperpolarization, followed by a late depolarization and more APs. They were in the pigmented layer of the retina and had smaller cell bodies and distal processes, but larger axons than R receptors. They may correspond to the photoreceptors with short microvilli and occasional cilia described previously in electron microscope studies. Electrical and dye coupling occurred between the receptors. The H receptors do not contribute to the CAP, but produce separate unitary potentials in the optic nerve.
Disturbances in Haematology, Fluid Volume Distribution and Circulatory Function Associated with Low Environmental pH in the Rainbow Trout,Salmo Gairdneri
Authors: Milligan C. Louise , Wood Chris M.
Published: April 2021

Exposure of adult rainbow trout to low pH (4·0–4·5) for 3 days resulted in progressive increases in heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure and haematocrit. The haematocrit increase resulted from erythrocyte swelling, a reduction in plasma volume and a mobilization of erythrocytes from the spleen. Erythrocyte swelling probably resulted from plasma acidosis and a reduction in plasma ions (McDonald & Wood, 1981). There was an associated redistribution of body water from extracellular to intracellular compartments, but maintenance of total body water content. Erythrocyte mobilization was reflected in an increase in reticulocyte and erythrocyte counts, and a depletion of splenic blood reserves. Haemoconcentration caused large increases in blood viscosity, which contributed to the rise in blood pressure. Pharmacological analysis revealed an adrenergic component to the cardiovascular disturbance. These events are thought to play a key role in the toxic syndrome.
Excretion in Insects: Energetics and Functional Principles
Authors: Florey E.
Published: April 2021

The contention of Maddrell (1981) that the rate of fluid secretion by insect Malpighian tubules is much slower than the rate of primary urine production (glomerular filtration rate) of vertebrates is valid only when the comparison is made with mammals and birds. Fishes and reptiles have filtration rates similar to or even slower than the rates observed in insects.

Calculations of the concentration or dilution work involved in primary urine production show that the (weight-specific) energy requirement of the insect excretory system is similar to or surpasses that reported for reptilian, and even mammalian, kidneys.

Because the energy demand of any excretory system is small when compared to the resting metabolism of the entire organism, it is likely that selection pressures acted less on a reduction of energy expenditure for excretion and ionic regulation than on the adaptations to the demands of specific environments and life styles, leading to diversified specializations of excretory (and regulatory) mechanisms.
The Cockroach DCMD Neurone
Authors: Edwards Donald H.
Published: April 2021

The projections and response properties of a bilateral pair of large visual interneurones in the cockroach Periplaneta are described. The cells are shown to be analogous to the DCMD neurones of locust (Rowell, 1971a). The organization of the afferent input to the cockroach DCMD was explored by examining the response to different types of visual stimuli. The afferent input is organized into an array of parallel channels. Response habitutation occurs within each channel independently of habituation in other channels. The dynamics of habituation and recovery from habituation were examined. A simple model based on these data is proposed that can predict the DCMD response to repetitive stimuli having a wide range of interstimulus intervals. The relation of this model to models of synaptic depression is discussed. Both u.v.-sensitive and green-sensitive photoreceptors in the eye provide input to the DCMD, but this cell remains unable to detect colour.
Primary Anastomosis Versus End-Ostomy in Left-Sided Colonic and Proximal Rectal Cancer Surgery in the Elderly Dutch Population: A Propensity Score Matched Analysis
Authors: van Loon Yu Ting , van Erning Felice N. , Maas Huub A. , Stassen Laurents P. S. , Zimmerman David D. E.
Published: April 2021

Background

Primary anastomosis (PA) in left-sided colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery in elderly patients is disputed. The aim of our study was to evaluate the differences in postoperative outcomes after left-sided CRC surgery in elderly patients in The Netherlands, comparing patients with PA and those who underwent end-ostomy (EO).

Method

Patients aged ≥ 75 years with stage I–III left-sided CRC, diagnosed and surgically treated in 2015–2017 were selected from the Netherlands Cancer Registry (n = 3286). Postoperative outcomes, short-term (30-, 60-, and 90-day) mortality and 3-year overall and relative survival were analyzed, stratified by surgical resection with PA versus EO. Propensity score matching (PSM) and multivariable logistic regression analysis were conducted.

Results

Patients with higher age, higher American Society of Anesthesiologists classification and higher tumor stage, a perforation, ileus or tumor located in the proximal rectum, and after open or converted surgery were more likely to receive EO. No difference in anastomotic leakage was seen in PA patients with or without defunctioning stoma (6.2% vs. 7.0%, p = 0.680). Postoperative hospital stay was longer (7.0 vs. 6.0 days, p < 0.0001) and more often prolonged (19% vs. 13%, p = 0.03) in EO patients. Sixty-day mortality (2.9% vs. 6.4%, p < 0.0001), 90-day mortality (3.4% vs. 7.7%, p < 0.0001), and crude 3-year survival (81.2% vs. 58.7%, p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in EO patients, remaining significant after multivariable and PSM analysis.

Conclusion

There are significant differences between elderly patients after left-sided CRC surgery with PA versus EO in terms of postoperative length of stay, short-term survival, 3-year overall survival, and relative survival at disadvantage of EO patients. This information could be important for decision making regarding surgical treatment in the elderly.
Emotion regulation, optimism and quality of life among Gastric Ulcer Patients
Authors: Muazzam Amina , Ali Nida , Niazi Yasmeen , Hassan Naima
Published: April 2021

Objective: The study was aimed to investigate the association among emotion regulation, optimism and quality of life among gastric ulcer patients.

Methods: The Cross-sectional study was conducted in public sector hospitals of Lahore, during January-June 2017. Sample of study was comprised of 100 patients diagnosed with gastric ulcer, aged 25-55 years, selected through non-probability purposive sampling technique. Demographic information sheet, Emotion Regulation Scale by John, Gross 2003, Life Orientation Test-Revised by Sheer, Carver 2002, Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire by Endicott 1993 were used for data collection. SPSS 21 version was used for data analysis.

Results: Out of total 100 participants 41 (41%) were men and 59 (59%) were women, with mean age of (M= 44.89, SD= 7.99). There was significant positive correlation among emotion regulation, optimism and quality of life (p<0.01). Optimism and emotion regulation were observed as significant predictors of quality of life (p<0.01). Significant gender differences were found in emotion regulation (p< 0.01), optimism (p< 0.01) and quality of life (p<0.01), with men scoring higher as compared to women. One way ANOVA showed significant differences between emotion regulation, optimism and quality of life among different age groups of gastric ulcer patients (p< 0.01).

Conclusion: Quality of life of gastric ulcer patients can be greatly improved by effectively using emotion regulation strategies and optimistic approach.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3894

How to cite this:Muazzam A, Ali N, Niazi Y, Hassan N. Emotion regulation, optimism and quality of life among Gastric Ulcer Patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(4):988-992. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3894

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Some, but not all of the premenstrual syndrome symptoms affect the medical exam scores in medical students
Authors: Bilir Filiz , Akdemir Ramazan , Bilir Cemil
Published: April 2021

Objectives: This research aims to identify the effects of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms on the school exam scores in medical students.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was designed at Sakarya University School of Medicine The study included medical students who were in the first, second, and third year of class. In this study, there were 193 male and 100 female students. The study investigated how PMS symptoms affected medical student’s exam scores and school success. All exam scores were recorded during the two-consecutive semester so duration of study was one year.

Results: There were 100 female students, and they had five different committee exams for one year. Female student’s exam scores were significantly higher for four committees and an average score of all year. The mean age of female students was 19.9 ±1.5. Acne, nausea/vomiting, sleeping, abdominal bloating, and prurience change had significantly different exam scores compared to the group without these symptoms. Students with acne had substantially higher exam scores than without acne; inversely, the other four symptoms negatively affected exam scores.

Conclusion: Some of the PMS symptoms can be more annoying and should change the quality of life more than the other symptoms, so we should define these symptoms to improve our student’s quality of life and school success.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3931

How to cite this:Bilir F, Akdemir R, Bilir C. Some, but not all of the premenstrual syndrome symptoms affect the medical exam scores in medical students. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(4):1190-1195. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.3931

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Correlations of circulating miR-26b level with left ventricular hypertrophy and cardiac function in elderly patients with hypertension
Authors: Fu Jian , Lin Fang , Pan Zhengxia , Wu Chun
Published: April 2021

Objectives: To study the correlations of circulating miR-26b level with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and cardiac function in elderly patients with hypertension.

Methods: A total of 132 eligible patients were divided into low and high miR-26b level groups. Their baseline clinical data and biochemical indices were compared. The correlations between miR-26b level and echocardiographic parameters were studied by Pearson’s analysis. Factors affecting LVH were explored by multivariate logistic regression analysis. The role of miR-26b in diagnosing LVH was predicted by receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results: The relative expression level of miR-26b was 4.56-16.93, with a median of 7.62. The two groups had similar baseline clinical data and biochemical indices (P>0.05). Compared with high miR-26b level group, interventricular septal thickness (IVST), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPWT), left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and number of LVH cases in low miR-26b level group significantly increased (P<0.05), and mitral ratio of peak early to late diastolic filling velocity (E/A) decreased (P<0.05). Circulating miR-26b level was negatively correlated with IVST, LVPWT and LVMI (P<0.0001), and positively correlated with E/A (P<0.0001). The proportion of cardiac hypofunction cases in low miR-26b level group significantly exceeded that of high miR-26b level group (P<0.05). Age and increased IVST, LVPWT and LVMI were independent risk factors for LVH (P<0.05), and elevated miR-26b level was a protective factor (P<0.05). AUC was 0.836, and the optimal cutoff value was 8.83, with high sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions: MiR-26b level is negatively correlated with LVH and positively correlated with left ventricular diastolic function in elderly hypertensive patients. It is a protective factor for LVH complicated with diastolic dysfunction and a potential biomarker for diagnosis.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.4048

How to cite this:Fu J, Lin F, Pan Z, Wu C. Correlations of circulating miR-26b level with left ventricular hypertrophy and cardiac function in elderly patients with hypertension. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(4):966-971. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.4.4048

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Direct detection of polystyrene equivalent nanoparticles with a diameter of 21 nm (∼λ/19) using coherent Fourier scatterometry
Authors: Kolenov D. , Zadeh I. E. , Horsten R. C. , Pereira S. F.
Published: April 2021

Coherent Fourier scatterometry (CFS) has been introduced to fulfil the need for noninvasive and sensitive inspection of subwavelength nanoparticles in the far field. The technique is based on detecting the scattering of coherent light when it is focused on isolated nanoparticles. In the present work, we describe the results of an experimental study aimed at establishing the actual detection limits of the technique, namely the smallest particle that could be detected with our system. The assessment for particles with a diameter smaller than 40 nm is carried out using calibrated nano-pillars of photoresist on silicon wafers that have been fabricated with e-beam lithography. We demonstrate the detection of polystyrene equivalent nanoparticles of diameter of 21 nm with a signal-to-noise ratio of 4 dB using the illuminating wavelength of 405 nm.
Floating quick response code based on structural black color with the characteristic of privacy protection
Authors: Tao Yichen , Cai Fuxin , Zhan Gangyao , Zhong Hao , Zhou Yun , Shen Su
Published: April 2021

Since the printing quick response (QR) code can be easily produced and duplicated as a potential tool for cybercriminals, QR code security has been a hotly debated issue across globe. Here we demonstrate a floating QR code device based on the moiré principle which has the advantage of displaying an appealing three-dimensional (3D) effect and privacy protection. In the imaging system, the microlens array (MLA) contributes to efficiently sampling the multiple elemental images and the metal-coated nanostructure yields patterned structural black color with a high pattern resolution (>12, 500 dpi). A virtual mask scheme is specially developed in the elemental image construction, allowing for eliminating the crosstalk between neighboring units and containing more information in one unit without the necessity for ultra-high-resolution fabrication process and sophisticated operation. The proposed QR code device, capable of being read by an unmodified smart phone, is inexpensive, mass-producible, nondestructive, unclonable and convenient for authentication. This new solution should take a place among the existing solutions to fight counterfeiting and QR code attacks.
Social media and the COVID-19 pandemic: The dilemma of fake news clutter vs. social responsibility
Authors: Ben Messaoud Moez
Published: April 2021

This article examines the relationship between fake news and social media as increasingly important sources of news, at a time when mainstream media no longer have exclusive control over news production and dissemination. It has been evident that few media outlets and professionals tend to draw conflicting news about COVID-19 from social media feeds, which are largely produced by common citizens with mostly no journalism training. This pervasive use makes social media key sources to scores of media outlets for news, whether it is related to COVID-19 or public affairs issues, even though it is susceptible to torrents of credibility and accuracy issues.

As a result, of the overwhelming spread of fake news on coronavirus, which is contributing to framing events from several angles, media professionals are now obliged to track and vet information circulating on social media. Due to the scale of disinformation spreading on the Web, it has become imperative that the credibility and accuracy of news is thoroughly verified. Media organizations have already been putting in place various mechanisms to monitor false news.

This article will attempt to identify and assess these monitoring efforts in the Arab world. For this purpose, I have put together a list of Arab observatories launched on the internet in order to monitor fake news circulating in relation to COVID-19, and to discuss their methods of monitoring work, in the context of mobilization carried out by governments and many organizations such as the World Health Organization.

This article is pinned down on social responsibility approach which helps pave the way the different propositions to combat fake news and avoid abuses in social media uses. This article proposes an evaluation of the monitoring initiative via-a-vis fake news and proposes a set of guidelines for improving the work of such monitoring bodies. Hence, this research reveals that social media outlets have diversified their goals to match the power of the conventional media in disseminating information and bringing up issues for debate. However, in the light of the framework of social responsibility, social media actors have to constantly develop a set of ethical practices to be observed by users, establish codes of conduct regulating content production, and lay down a code of integrity to assure accuracy in news and information transmission.
The significance of digital media in local public space crisis management: The case of Poland, the United Kingdom and Italy
Authors: Biernacka-Ligieza Ilona
Published: April 2021

This article recognizes the potential and possibilities of digital media in COVID-19 crisis management in different democratic systems. It is the comparative analysis of information management during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland, the United Kingdom and Italy. From the theoretical approach, the crisis management usually deals with two main models. The first one is defined as the post-reactive model, which is based on reacting to events after the first symptoms of the crisis and the communication model remains the top-down process. The second one is described as the pro-reactive model, which is based on building a dialogue space with the participatory community and it is the bottom-up communication process. In this case, the community becomes an active partner in bridging the crisis. The main goal of the proposed article is to examine the ways in which digital media influences the quality of strategic communication management in local public spaces and what type of crisis management strategy is applied to each political culture. The article discusses the pros and cons of information distributed through digital platforms by both the media and public institutions in terms of community awareness and crisis governance. The article applies a mixed method approach, which includes content analysis (media and governmental digital services), interviews (with the authorities’ members and media representatives) and social media network analysis (mainly Facebook). The analysis has been ongoing since the beginning of the pandemic in Europe (March–September 2020). The research has demonstrated that the shape and distribution of information during the pandemic were of great importance for the quality of information strategy activities. The problem was noticeable disinformation at all levels, which was the result of a lack of control over the message and the pursuit of sensation or conspiracy. It was clearly observed that without the support of crisis communication during the pandemic by the media, mainly digital platforms, it would be impossible to implement it. In all three countries, social media was the ‘information management centre’ in the COVID-19 era, but the activity of individual municipalities was slightly different. As far as the urbanized and semi-urbanized level is concerned, some consistency can be observed. In all three cases, communication on social media platforms was conducted very intensively and with the use of various tools (texts, statistics, instructional videos, scientific articles, infographics, etc.). All the ‘organizers’ of the local public sphere (presidents, mayors, journalists, service representatives) tried to keep in touch with the inhabitants.
The Utilization of the "Tsutaeru Hatsuon" Online Media in Learning Japanese Accents and Intonations
Authors: Hernawati Heni , Asrini Dwi Puji
Published: April 2021

This study reveals the analysis of the online media's role, "Tsutaeru Hatsuon", to improve Japanese language learners in mastering and to apply Japanese phonetics, especially in accents and intonation. This study uses primary data in the form of respondents' answers to questions in the website "Tsutaeru Hatsuon", which was conducted twice, namely pre-test and post-test, and secondary data in the form of responses questionnaires. Respondents in this study were 64 Japanese language education students at Semarang State University, class of 2019. The results showed that the post-test scores increased than the pre-test scores. In Japanese intonation material, respondents who answered questions correctly on all questions increased by 23%, while in accent material, respondents who answered questions correctly on all questions increased by 31%. Thus, it can be concluded that there is an improvement in the respondent's ability to understand Japanese intonation and accent after using the "Tsutaeru Hatsuon" website. According to respondents, the questionnaire answers showed that the website "Tsutaeru Hatsuon" is easy to understand and use. Moreover, the material is easy to understand, and the explanation is very detailed, which is equipped with sound files and learning videos. It is beneficial for learners to be able to understand Japanese accents and intonations directly.
ONLINE PSYCHODRAMA WITH CHILDREN AND THE PSYCHODRAMATIC SANDPLAY METHOD
Authors: Strauch Vanessa Ramalho Ferreira
Published: April 2021

Virtual psychotherapy was intensified in the pandemic’s 2020. We aim to reflect on the challenges of the psychodramatic method with children in the online modality including the steps, tools and the teleconstruct. We identified adaptive therapeutic possibilities in the psychodramatic sandplay method and difficulties in sustaining the conflict, affective continence, connectivity, privacy and confidentiality. Socionomic theory with its psychodynamic techniques provides a foundation for distance practice. We signal the child’s Internal Healing Self (spontaneous creative nature) as a guiding guide for clinical management.
PSICODRAMA ON-LINE COM CRIANÇAS E O MÉTODO DO SANDPLAY PSICODRAMÁTICO
Authors: Strauch Vanessa Ramalho Ferreira
Published: April 2021

A psicoterapia virtual foi intensificada na pandemia 2020. Objetivamos refletir sobre os desafios do método psicodramático com crianças na modalidade on-line incluindo etapas, ferramentas e constructo télico. Identificamos possibilidades terapêuticas adaptativas no método do sandplay psicodramático e dificuldades na sustentação do conflito, continência afetiva, conectividade, privacidade e confidencialidade. A teoria socionômica com suas técnicas psicodinâmicas traz embasamento para a prática à distância. Sinalizamos o Eu Curador Interno da criança (natureza espontâneo criativa) como um guia norteador do manejo clínico.
Accounting for Numbers: Group Characteristics and the Choice of Violent and Nonviolent Tactics
Authors: Gleditsch Kristian Skrede , Dahl Marianne , Gates Scott , Gonzalez Belen
Published: April 2021

Scholars have shown that nonviolent movements tend to be more successful than violent movements. A key explanation is that nonviolent movements have a mobilization advantage over violent campaigns. As nonviolent movements have lower barriers to active participation, they can expand quickly by mobilizing much larger numbers than violent movements. We argue that such a mobilization advantage is not universal, and that different movements are likely to have a comparative advantage in one tactic over another. We develop a simple model emphasizing how the ex ante potential for mobilization and prospects for success steer the choice of dissident tactics. Nonviolent tactics can be relatively more effective when a movement can mobilize more active participants than with violence, but movements with limited mobilization potential can have feasible prospects for violent dissent and a nonviolent mobilization disadvantage. We examine the implications of the model against empirical data for different types of dissident tactics and on resort to nonviolent and nonviolent dissent. We demonstrate very different actor profiles in nonviolent dissent and violent conflict, and show how each of the two types of dissent are more likely under very different settings. To compare success by types of dissent we must account for how differences in potential numbers or mobilization shape tactical choices.
Humanitarian Aid and War Economies: The Case of Yemen
Authors: Elayah Moosa , Fenttiman Matilda
Published: April 2021

Although humanitarian aid (HA) is desperately needed in Yemen to cope with the worst humanitarian crisis in the world, few studies have analyzed the effect of these grants. This article provides such an analysis using 34 interviews of NGO directors and staff members in Yemen. The interviews were conducted in an open format, to enable interviewees to express all their ideas on the HA situation in Yemen, not just ones that solely fit into the frame and questions of this study. Our empirical analysis indicates that the ability of local NGOs to use and deliver supplies to those suffering is severely constrained. This is mainly due to looting by conflicting factions, corruption, and the absence of the international deterrent that obliges the conflicting parties to preserve human rights. Furthermore, this study indicates that HA is being used as a weapon of war for power and financial gain, and thus is a contributing factor in the continuation of the conflict. This means it is important that international donors explore alternative solutions to effectively deliver and distribute HA in fragile states.
Report of 33 Novel AVPR2 Mutations and Analysis of 117 Families with X-Linked Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus
Authors: ARTHUS MARIE-FRANC[COMBINING CEDILLA]OISE , LONERGAN MICHE[Combining Grave Accent]LE , CRUMLEY M. JOYCE , NAUMOVA ANNA K. , MORIN DENIS , DE MARCO LUIZ A. , KAPLAN BERNARD S. , ROBERTSON GARY L. , SASAKI SEI , MORGAN KENNETH , BICHET DANIEL G. , FUJIWARA T. MARY
Published: April 2021

X-linked nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is a rare disease caused by mutations in the arginine vasopressin receptor 2 gene (AVPR2). Thirty-three novel AVPR2 mutations were identified in 62 families that were not included in our previous studies. This study describes the diversity of mutations observed in a total of 117 families, the number of affected people at the time of diagnosis, skewed X chromosome inactivation in severely affected females, the inferred parental origin of de novo mutations, and it provides estimates of incidence. Among 117 families, there were 82 different putative disease-causing mutations. Based on haplotype analysis, it can be inferred that when the same AVPR2 mutation is identified in different families that were not known to be related, the mutations most likely arose independently. More than half of the families had only one affected male; two families presented with a severely affected female and no family history of NDI. A de novo mutation arose during oogenesis in the mother in 20% of isolated cases. The estimate of about 8.8 per million male live births of the incidence of X-linked NDI in the province of Quebec, Canada may be representative of the general population except in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, where the incidence is more than six times higher. Documentation of the diversity of mutations will assist in revealing the full spectrum of clinical variation. Discussion of genetic and population genetic aspects of X-linked NDI may contribute to early diagnosis and treatment.
Thrombotic Microangiopathy Associated with Parvovirus B 19 Infection after Renal Transplantation
Authors: MURER LUISA , ZACCHELLO GRAZIELLA , BIANCHI DANIELA , DALL'AMICO ROBERTO , MONTINI GIOVANNI , ANDREETTA BARBARA , PERINI MARINO , DOSSI ELISABETTA CURRO[Combining Grave Accent] , ZANON GIANFRANCO , ZACCHELLO FRANCO
Published: April 2021

Human parvovirus B19 is considered an etiologic agent of aplastic anemia in immunosuppressed patients. Microscopic vasculitis, with or without renal involvement, has recently been attributed to this viral infection in immunocompetent patients. This study describes four cases of thrombotic renal graft microangiopathy presumably secondary to B19 infection. Twelve to 50 days after transplantation, four patients presented a renal graft dysfunction with creatinine rising to 360 to 1088 μmol/L and requiring hemodialysis in three cases. Renal involvement appeared after a systemic illness characterized by fever, fatigue and arthralgia, aplastic anemia (hemoglobin ranged from 5.3 to 7.8 g/dl), and thrombocytopenia. A thrombotic microangiopathy was observed in the renal biopsies, and the parvovirus B19 genome was isolated by PCR from the specimens. All four patients also became IgM-positive for parvovirus. Three of the four renal biopsies taken at the time of transplantation (T0) from the same patients were found positive for the B19 genome. Graft function recovered, with resolution of the aplastic anemia, within 22 to 110 d. Twenty biopsies performed as routine controls or for suspected acute rejection and nine T0 biopsies of patients with no signs of B19 infection were used. The B19 genome was found in two of 20 posttransplant biopsies and in one of nine T0 biopsies. The temporal association between aplastic anemia and the onset of thrombotic graft microangiopathy, isolation of the viral genome in renal specimens, seroconversion, and endothelial tropism of the virus suggests that B19 could be the etiologic agent of thrombotic microangiopathy in these cases. The development of the disease after infection could depend on other detrimental cofactors, which make the patient more susceptible to microthrombi formation in the renal microvasculature. The renal graft could represent the route of B19 transmission.
Localization of the Epithelial Ca2+ Channel in Rabbit Kidney and Intestine
Authors: HOENDEROP JOOST G. J. , HARTOG ANITA , STUIVER MARCHEL , DOUCET ALAIN , WILLEMS PETER H. G. M. , BINDELS RENÉ J. M.
Published: April 2021

The epithelial Ca2+ channel (ECaC), which is exclusively expressed in 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-responsive tissues, i.e., kidney, intestine, and placenta, is postulated to constitute the initial step in the process of transcellular Ca2+ transport. To strengthen this postulated function, the present study compares the segmental and cellular distribution of ECaC and the other Ca2+ transport proteins known to be involved in transcellular Ca2+ transport. In rabbit kidney, ECaC mRNA and protein expression were primarily present in the connecting tubule. Immunopositive staining for the ECaC protein was exclusively found at the apical domain of this tubular segment. Importantly, ECaC completely colocalized with calbindin-D28K, Na+-Ca2+ exchanger (NCX), and plasma membrane Ca2+ -ATPase (PMCA). A minority of cells along the distal tubule lacked immunopositive staining for ECaC and the other Ca2+ transporting proteins. These negative cells were identified as intercalated cells. In intestine, ECaC was present in a thin layer along the apical membrane of the duodenal villus tip, whereas the crypt and goblet cells were negative. Again, a complete colocalization was observed between ECaC, calbindin-D9K, and PMCA. In contrast to the kidney, NCX could not be detected in duodenum. The present finding that ECaC completely colocalizes with the Ca2+ transport proteins in the connecting tubule and duodenum, together with its apical localization, further substantiates the postulated function of ECaC as the gatekeeper of active Ca2+ (re)absorption.
Exaggerated Impact of ATP-Sensitive K+ Channels on Afferent Arteriolar Diameter in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: IKENAGA HIDEKI , BAST JOSEPH P. , FALLET RACHEL W. , CARMINES PAMELA K.
Published: April 2021

Experiments were performed to determine the involvement of ATP-sensitive K+ channels (KATP channels) in the renal afferent arteriolar dilation that occurs during the hyperfiltration stage of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). IDDM was induced in rats by streptozotocin (STZ) injection, and adequate insulin was provided to maintain moderate hyperglycemia. Sham rats received vehicle treatments. Two weeks later, afferent arteriolar function was assessed using the in vitro blood-perfused juxtamedullary nephron technique. Baseline afferent arteriolar lumen diameter was greater in STZ rats (25.9 ± 1.1 μm) than in sham rats (20.8 ± 1.0 μm). Glibenclamide (3 to 300 μM) had virtually no effect on afferent arterioles from sham rats; however, this KATP antagonist caused concentration-dependent afferent arteriolar constriction in kidneys from STZ-treated rats, restoring lumen diameter to 20.6 ± 1.7 μm (P > 0.05 versus sham baseline). In both groups of rats, pinacidil (a cyanoguanidine KATP agonist; 0.3 to 300 μM) evoked concentration-dependent afferent arteriolar dilation, indicating the functional expression of KATP channels; however, lumen diameter was increased by 73% in STZ kidneys but only by 48% in sham kidneys. The gliben-clamide-sensitive afferent arteriolar dilator response to 1 μM PCO-400 (a benzopyran KATP agonist) was also accentuated in STZ kidneys. These observations suggest that increases in both the functional availability and basal activation of KATP channels promote afferent arteriolar vasodilation during the early stage of IDDM, changes that likely contribute to the etiology of diabetic hyperfiltration.
Bradykinin B1 Receptor-Mediated Changes in Renal Hemodynamics during Endotoxin-Induced Inflammation
Authors: SCHANSTRA JOOST P. , MARIN-CASTAN[Combining Tilde]O MARIA E. , PRADDAUDE FRANC[COMBINING CEDILLA]OISE , TACK IVAN , ADER JEAN-LOUIS , GIROLAMI JEAN-PIERRE , BASCANDS JEAN-LOUP , JEUNIER BENOIT
Published: April 2021

Kinins have been shown to influence renal hemodynamics and function. Under physiologic conditions, most kinin effects involve bradykinin B2 receptors, but bradykinin B1 receptors are often induced during inflammation. The purpose of this study was to examine in vivo the effects of bradykinin B1 receptor activation on renal hemodynamics under normal and inflammatory conditions. In anesthetized rats, activation of bradykinin B1 receptors by arterial infusion of bradykinin B1 receptor agonist des-Arg9-bradykinin reduced renal plasma flow and GFR. Prior administration (18 h) of lipopolysaccharide to induce inflammation resulted in a larger bradykinin B1 receptor-induced reduction in renal plasma flow. Values of other parameters remained unchanged, thus resulting in an increased filtration fraction. The presence and the functionality of the bradykinin B1 receptor at the level of glomerular afferent and efferent arterioles were studied by mRNA expression analysis and intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) mobilization studies. Stimulation with des-Arg9-bradykinin of microdissected afferent arterioles from control and lipopolysaccharide-treated rats induced [Ca2+]i mobilization without any significant difference in amplitude between control and lipopolysaccharidetreated rats. However, des-Arg9-bradykinin only induced [Ca2+]i mobilization in efferent arterioles from lipopolysaccharide-treated rats. It is suggested that activation of bradykinin B1 receptors located along the efferent arteriole may participate in the modification of renal hemodynamics in inflammatory states.
The Affinity of the Organic Cation Transporter rOCT1 Is Increased by Protein Kinase C-Dependent Phosphorylation
Authors: MEHRENS THOMAS , LELLECK SILKE , C[COMBINING CEDILLA]ETINKAYA IBRAHIM , KNOLLMANN MARION , HOHAGE HELGE , GORBOULEV VALENTIN , BOKNÍK PETER , KOEPSELL HERMANN , SCHLATTER EBERHARD
Published: April 2021

Members of the organic cation transporter (OCT) family are mainly expressed in kidney, liver, intestine, and brain. The regulation of the OCT type 1 from rat (rOCT1) stably transfected in HEK293 cells was examined using a fluorimetric technique, 1-[3H]methyl-4-phenylpyridinium uptake studies, and fast-whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. For the fluorescence measurements, the cation 4-(4-(dimethylamino)styryl)-N-methylpyridinium iodide (ASP+) was used as substrate. Uptake of ASP+ via rOCT1 was electrogenic, and its inhibition by other organic cations was consistent with previously reported radioactive tracer flux measurements. The inhibitor quinine was not translocated by the organic cation transporter in contrast to tetraethylammonium. Stimulation of diacyl glycerol-dependent protein kinase C (PKC) by sn-1,2-dioctanoyl glycerol (1 μM) resulted in an increase in initial ASP+ uptake rate by 216 ± 28% (n = 29). The effect was completely antagonized by the PKC inhibitor tamoxifen (20 μM, n = 22). Forskolin (1 μM), which activates adenylate cyclase and thereby protein kinase A (PKA), stimulated the initial rate of ASP+ accumulation by 51 ± 6% (n = 19). This effect was inhibited by the specific PKA inhibitor KT5720 (1 μM, n = 12). Inhibition of tyrosine kinases by aminogenestein (10 μM) reduced ASP+ uptake by 63 ± 7% (n = 7), while genestein or tyrphostin AG1295 (each 10 μM) were without significant effects. Incubation of the cells with sn-1,2-dioctanoyl glycerol (1 μM) increased the affinities of the transporter to tetraethylammonium, tetrapenthylammonium, and quinine by a factor of 58, 14.5, and 2.4, respectively. Western blot analysis revealed that rOCT1 protein was phosphorylated at a serine residue upon stimulation of PKC. In conclusion, it has been demonstrated that the organic cation transport by rOCT1 is stimulated by PKC, PKA, and endogenous tyrosine kinase activation. The PKC phosphorylates rOCT1 and leads to a conformational change at the substrate binding site.
Renal Enlargement Precedes Renal Hyperfiltration in Early Experimental Diabetes in Rats
Authors: BAK MARTIN , THOMSEN KLAUS , CHRISTIANSEN THORA , FLYVBJERG ALLAN
Published: April 2021

The order of appearance between renal hypertrophy and hyperfunction in early experimental diabetes is still disputed. The reason for previous discrepant results is believed to be methodologic problems, as most previous studies of renal function have been performed in anesthetized animals. In the present study in nondiabetic and streptozotocin-diabetic animals, renal volume was measured by a noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging technique, while renal function parameters were measured in conscious, chronically catheterized animals. To avoid artifacts caused by the procedures associated with induction of streptozotocin-diabetes (fasting, brief anesthesia, and transient hypoglycemia) on renal growth and function, diabetic animals were injected with insulin to obtain euglycemia for 4 d before study start. At day 0, insulin administration was withdrawn and all animals developed hyperglycemia within 12 h. Renal volume and kidney function were measured on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7. Renal enlargement was detectable at day 1 (20%) and reached an increase of 40% at day 7. No changes were seen in effective renal plasma flow or effective renal vascular resistance within the first 7 d after development of hyperglycemia. GFR tended to rise on day 5 and was increased by 16% at day 7. The absolute proximal reabsorption showed a pronounced rise (30%) at day 7, whereas no change was seen in the proximal tubular fluid output. It is concluded that renal enlargement precedes renal hyperfunction in the early phase after onset of experimental diabetes.