bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anion Transport in Heart
Authors: Hume Joseph R. , Duan Dayue , Collier Mei Lin , Yamazaki Jun , Horowitz Burton
Published: December 2017

Anion transport proteins in mammalian cells participate in a wide variety of cell and intracellular organelle functions, including regulation of electrical activity, pH, volume, and the transport of osmolites and metabolites, and may even play a role in the control of immunological responses, cell migration, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Although significant progress over the past decade has been achieved in understanding electrogenic and electroneutral anion transport proteins in sarcolemmal and intracellular membranes, information on the molecular nature and physiological significance of many of these proteins, especially in the heart, is incomplete. Functional and molecular studies presently suggest that four primary types of sarcolemmal anion channels are expressed in cardiac cells: channels regulated by protein kinase A (PKA), protein kinase C, and purinergic receptors ( ICl.PKA); channels regulated by changes in cell volume ( ICl.vol); channels activated by intracellular Ca2+( ICl.Ca); and inwardly rectifying anion channels ( ICl.ir). In most animal species, ICl.PKAis due to expression of a cardiac isoform of the epithelial cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator Cl−channel. New molecular candidates responsible for ICl.vol, ICl.Ca, and ICl.ir(ClC-3, CLCA1, and ClC-2, respectively) have recently been identified and are presently being evaluated. Two isoforms of the band 3 anion exchange protein, originally characterized in erythrocytes, are responsible for Cl−/HCO3−exchange, and at least two members of a large vertebrate family of electroneutral cotransporters (ENCC1 and ENCC3) are responsible for Na+-dependent Cl−cotransport in heart. A 223-amino acid protein in the outer mitochondrial membrane of most eukaryotic cells comprises a voltage-dependent anion channel. The molecular entities responsible for other types of electroneutral anion exchange or Cl−conductances in intracellular membranes of the sarcoplasmic reticulum or nucleus are unknown. Evidence of cardiac expression of up to five additional members of the ClC gene family suggest a rich new variety of molecular candidates that may underlie existing or novel Cl−channel subtypes in sarcolemmal and intracellular membranes. The application of modern molecular biological and genetic approaches to the study of anion transport proteins during the next decade holds exciting promise for eventually revealing the actual physiological, pathophysiological, and clinical significance of these unique transport processes in cardiac and other mammalian cells.
Oxysterols: Modulators of Cholesterol Metabolism and Other Processes
Authors: Schroepfer George J.
Published: December 2017

Oxygenated derivatives of cholesterol (oxysterols) present a remarkably diverse profile of biological activities, including effects on sphingolipid metabolism, platelet aggregation, apoptosis, and protein prenylation. The most notable oxysterol activities center around the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis, which appears to be controlled in part by a complex series of interactions of oxysterol ligands with various receptors, such as the oxysterol binding protein, the cellular nucleic acid binding protein, the sterol regulatory element binding protein, the LXR nuclear orphan receptors, and the low-density lipoprotein receptor. Identification of the endogenous oxysterol ligands and elucidation of their enzymatic origins are topics of active investigation. Except for 24,25-epoxysterols, most oxysterols arise from cholesterol by autoxidation or by specific microsomal or mitochondrial oxidations, usually involving cytochrome P-450 species. Oxysterols are variously metabolized to esters, bile acids, steroid hormones, cholesterol, or other sterols through pathways that may differ according to the type of cell and mode of experimentation (in vitro, in vivo, cell culture). Reliable measurements of oxysterol levels and activities are hampered by low physiological concentrations (∼0.01–0.1 μM in plasma) relative to cholesterol (∼5,000 μM) and by the susceptibility of cholesterol to autoxidation, which produces artifactual oxysterols that may also have potent activities. Reports describing the occurrence and levels of oxysterols in plasma, low-density lipoproteins, various tissues, and food products include many unrealistic data resulting from inattention to autoxidation and to limitations of the analytical methodology. Because of the widespread lack of appreciation for the technical difficulties involved in oxysterol research, a rigorous evaluation of the chromatographic and spectroscopic methods used in the isolation, characterization, and quantitation of oxysterols has been included. This review comprises a detailed and critical assessment of current knowledge regarding the formation, occurrence, metabolism, regulatory properties, and other activities of oxysterols in mammalian systems.
Structure, Function, and Control of Phosphoinositide-Specific Phospholipase C
Authors: Rebecchi Mario J. , Pentyala Srinivas N.
Published: December 2017

Phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PLC) subtypes β, γ, and δ comprise a related group of multidomain phosphodiesterases that cleave the polar head groups from inositol lipids. Activated by all classes of cell surface receptor, these enzymes generate the ubiquitous second messengers inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and diacylglycerol. The last 5 years have seen remarkable advances in our understanding of the molecular and biological facets of PLCs. New insights into their multidomain arrangement and catalytic mechanism have been gained from crystallographic studies of PLC-δ1, while new modes of controlling PLC activity have been uncovered in cellular studies. Most notable is the realization that PLC-β, -γ, and -δ isoforms act in concert, each contributing to a specific aspect of the cellular response. Clues to their true biological roles were also obtained. Long assumed to function broadly in calcium-regulated processes, genetic studies in yeast, slime molds, plants, flies, and mammals point to specific and conditional roles for each PLC isoform in cell signaling and development. In this review we consider each subtype of PLC in organisms ranging from yeast to mammals and discuss their molecular regulation and biological function.
Role of Platelet-Activating Factor in Cardiovascular Pathophysiology
Authors: Montrucchio Giuseppe , Alloatti Giuseppe , Camussi Giovanni
Published: December 2017

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a phospholipid mediator that belongs to a family of biologically active, structurally related alkyl phosphoglycerides. PAF acts via a specific receptor that is coupled with a G protein, which activates a phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C. In this review we focus on the aspects that are more relevant for the cell biology of the cardiovascular system. The in vitro studies provided evidence for a role of PAF both as intercellular and intracellular messenger involved in cell-to-cell communication. In the cardiovascular system, PAF may have a role in embryogenesis because it stimulates endothelial cell migration and angiogenesis and may affect cardiac function because it exhibits mechanical and electrophysiological actions on cardiomyocytes. Moreover, PAF may contribute to modulation of blood pressure mainly by affecting the renal vascular circulation. In pathological conditions, PAF has been involved in the hypotension and cardiac dysfunctions occurring in various cardiovascular stress situations such as cardiac anaphylaxis and hemorrhagic, traumatic, and septic shock syndromes. In addition, experimental studies indicate that PAF has a critical role in the development of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Indeed, PAF cooperates in the recruitment of leukocytes in inflamed tissue by promoting adhesion to the endothelium and extravascular transmigration of leukocytes. The finding that human heart can produce PAF, expresses PAF receptor, and is sensitive to the negative inotropic action of PAF suggests that this mediator may have a role also in human cardiovascular pathophysiology.
Physiology of Nitric Oxide in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Stamler Jonathan S. , Meissner Gerhard
Published: December 2017

In the past five years, skeletal muscle has emerged as a paradigm of “nitric oxide” (NO) function and redox-related signaling in biology. All major nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms, including a muscle-specific splice variant of neuronal-type (n) NOS, are expressed in skeletal muscles of all mammals. Expression and localization of NOS isoforms are dependent on age and developmental stage, innervation and activity, history of exposure to cytokines and growth factors, and muscle fiber type and species. nNOS in particular may show a fast-twitch muscle predominance. Muscle NOS localization and activity are regulated by a number of protein-protein interactions and co- and/or posttranslational modifications. Subcellular compartmentalization of the NOSs enables distinct functions that are mediated by increases in cGMP and by S-nitrosylation of proteins such as the ryanodine receptor-calcium release channel. Skeletal muscle functions regulated by NO or related molecules include force production (excitation-contraction coupling), autoregulation of blood flow, myocyte differentiation, respiration, and glucose homeostasis. These studies provide new insights into fundamental aspects of muscle physiology, cell biology, ion channel physiology, calcium homeostasis, signal transduction, and the biochemistry of redox-related systems.
Magnesium Transport in the Renal Distal Convoluted Tubule
Authors: Dai Long-Jun , Ritchie Gordon , Kerstan Dirk , Kang Hyung Sub , Cole David E. C. , Quamme Gary A.
Published: December 2017

The distal tubule reabsorbs ∼10% of the filtered Mg2+, but this is 70–80% of that delivered from the loop of Henle. Because there is little Mg2+reabsorption beyond the distal tubule, this segment plays an important role in determining the final urinary excretion. The distal convoluted segment (DCT) is characterized by a negative luminal voltage and high intercellular resistance so that Mg2+reabsorption is transcellular and active. This review discusses recent evidence for selective and sensitive control of Mg2+transport in the DCT and emphasizes the importance of this control in normal and abnormal renal Mg2+conservation. Normally, Mg2+absorption is load dependent in the distal tubule, whether delivery is altered by increasing luminal Mg2+concentration or increasing the flow rate into the DCT. With the use of microfluorescent studies with an established mouse distal convoluted tubule (MDCT) cell line, it was shown that Mg2+uptake was concentration and voltage dependent. Peptide hormones such as parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, glucagon, and arginine vasopressin enhance Mg2+absorption in the distal tubule and stimulate Mg2+uptake into MDCT cells. Prostaglandin E2and isoproterenol increase Mg2+entry into MDCT cells. The current evidence indicates that cAMP-dependent protein kinase A, phospholipase C, and protein kinase C signaling pathways are involved in these responses. Steroid hormones have significant effects on distal Mg2+transport. Aldosterone does not alter basal Mg2+uptake but potentiates hormone-stimulated Mg2+entry in MDCT cells by increasing hormone-mediated cAMP formation. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3, on the other hand, stimulates basal Mg2+uptake. Elevation of plasma Mg2+or Ca2+inhibits hormone-stimulated cAMP accumulation and Mg2+uptake in MDCT cells through activation of extracellular Ca2+/Mg2+-sensing mechanisms. Mg2+restriction selectively increases Mg2+uptake with no effect on Ca2+absorption. This intrinsic cellular adaptation provides the sensitive and selective control of distal Mg2+transport. The distally acting diuretics amiloride and chlorothiazide stimulate Mg2+uptake in MDCT cells acting through changes in membrane voltage. A number of familial and acquired disorders have been described that emphasize the diversity of cellular controls affecting renal Mg2+balance. Although it is clear that many influences affect Mg2+transport within the DCT, the transport processes have not been identified.
Potassium Transport in the Mammalian Collecting Duct
Authors: Muto Shigeaki
Published: December 2017

The mammalian collecting duct plays a dominant role in regulating K+excretion by the nephron. The collecting duct exhibits axial and intrasegmental cell heterogeneity and is composed of at least two cell types: collecting duct cells (principal cells) and intercalated cells. Under normal circumstances, the collecting duct cell in the cortical collecting duct secretes K+, whereas under K+depletion, the intercalated cell reabsorbs K+. Assessment of the electrochemical driving forces and of membrane conductances for transcellular and paracellular electrolyte movement, the characterization of several ATPases, patch-clamp investigation, and cloning of the K+channel have provided important insights into the role of pumps and channels in those tubule cells that regulate K+secretion and reabsorption. This review summarizes K+transport properties in the mammalian collecting duct. Special emphasis is given to the mechanisms of how K+transport is regulated in the collecting duct.
Adenosine 5′-Triphosphate: a P2-Purinergic Agonist in the Myocardium
Authors: Vassort Guy
Published: December 2017

ATP, besides an intracellular energy source, is an agonist when applied to a variety of different cells including cardiomyocytes. Sources of ATP in the extracellular milieu are multiple. Extracellular ATP is rapidly degraded by ectonucleotidases. Today ionotropic P2X1–7receptors and metabotropic P2Y1,2,4,6,11receptors have been cloned and their mRNA found in cardiomyocytes. On a single cardiomyocyte, micromolar ATP induces nonspecific cationic and Cl−currents that depolarize the cells. ATP both increases directly via a Gsprotein and decreases Ca2+current. ATP activates the inward-rectifying currents (ACh- and ATP-activated K+currents) and outward K+currents. P2-purinergic stimulation increases cAMP by activating adenylyl cyclase isoform V. It also involves tyrosine kinases to activate phospholipase C-γ to produce inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and Cl−/HCO[Formula: see text] exchange to induce a large transient acidosis. No clear correlation is presently possible between an effect and the activation of a given P2-receptor subtype in cardiomyocytes. ATP itself is generally a positive inotropic agent. Upon rapid application to cells, ATP induces various forms of arrhythmia. At the tissue level, arrhythmia could be due to slowing of electrical spread after both Na+current decrease and cell-to-cell uncoupling as well as cell depolarization and Ca2+current increase. In as much as the information is available, this review also reports analog effects of UTP and diadenosine polyphosphates.
Vascular Smooth Muscle Growth: Autocrine Growth Mechanisms
Authors: Berk Bradford C.
Published: December 2017

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) exhibit several growth responses to agonists that regulate their function including proliferation (hyperplasia with an increase in cell number), hypertrophy (an increase in cell size without change in DNA content), endoreduplication (an increase in DNA content and usually size), and apoptosis. Both autocrine growth mechanisms (in which the individual cell synthesizes and/or secretes a substance that stimulates that same cell type to undergo a growth response) and paracrine growth mechanisms (in which the individual cells responding to the growth factor synthesize and/or secrete a substance that stimulates neighboring cells of another cell type) are important in VSMC growth. In this review I discuss the autocrine and paracrine growth factors important for VSMC growth in culture and in vessels. Four mechanisms by which individual agonists signal are described: direct effects of agonists on their receptors, transactivation of tyrosine kinase-coupled receptors, generation of reactive oxygen species, and induction/secretion of other growth and survival factors. Additional growth effects mediated by changes in cell matrix are discussed. The temporal and spatial coordination of these events are shown to modulate the environment in which other growth factors initiate cell cycle events. Finally, the heterogeneous nature of VSMC developmental origin provides another level of complexity in VSMC growth mechanisms.
Anti-Myeloperoxidase Antibodies Associate with Future Proliferative Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Olson S. W. , Lee J. J. , Poirier M. , Little D. J. , Prince L. K. , Baker T. P. , Edison J. D. , Abbott K. C.
Published: December 2017

Background. The subclinical pathophysiology of proliferative lupus nephritis (PLN) has not been fully elucidated. Myeloperoxidase anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPO-ANCA) is associated with PLN, but prediagnostic levels have not been reported. Methods. We performed a retrospective case-control Department of Defense Serum Repository (DoDSR) study comparing MPO-ANCA levels in longitudinal prediagnostic serum samples for 23 biopsy confirmed proliferative lupus nephritis (PLN) patients to DoDSR identified age, sex, race, and age of serum matched healthy and SLE without LN disease controls. We also compared the temporal relationship of MPO-ANCA to anti-double stranded DNA antibodies (dsDNAab). Results. A greater proportion of PLN patients had prediagnostic MPO-ANCA levels above ≥3 U/mL and ≥6 U/mL compared to SLE without LN (91% versus 43%, p<0.001; 57% versus 5%, p<0.001, resp.). In subgroup analysis, the MPO-ANCA threshold of ≥3 U/mL was significant at <1 year (88% versus 39%, p=0.007) and 1–4 years (87% versus 38%, p=0.009) prior to diagnosis. Statistically significant subclinical MPO-ANCA levels (≥3 U/mL) occurred prior to statistically significant dsDNAab ≥ 3 IU/ml (89% versus 11%, p=0.003). Conclusions. Subclinical MPO-ANCA levels could distinguish future PLN from SLE without LN. MPO-ANCA manifests prior to clinical disease and subclinical dsDNAab to suggest that it may contribute directly to PLN pathogenicity.
Energy Efficient Downlink Transmission in Wireless LANs by Using Low-Power Wake-Up Radio
Authors: Tang Suhua , Obana Sadao
Published: December 2017

In the downlink of a wireless LAN, power-save mode is a typical method to reduce power consumption. However, it usually causes large delay. Recently, remote wake-up control via a low-power wake-up radio (WuR) has been introduced to activate a node to instantly receive packets from an access point (AP). But link quality is not taken into account and protocol overhead of wake-up per node is relatively large. To solve these problems, in this paper, a broadcast-based wake-up control framework is proposed, and a low-power WuR is used to receive traffic indication map from an AP, monitor link quality, and perform carrier sense. Among the nodes which have packets buffered at the AP, only those whose SNR is above a threshold will be activated, contending via a proper contention window to receive packets from the AP. Optimal SNR threshold, deduced by theoretical analysis, helps to reduce transmission collisions and false wake-ups (caused by wake-up latency) and improve transmission rate. Extensive simulations confirm that the proposed method (i) effectively reduces power consumption of nodes compared with other methods, (ii) has less delay than power-save mode in times of light traffic, and (iii) achieves higher throughput than other methods in the saturation state.
The Adhesion of CrN Thin Films Deposited on Modified 42CrMo4 Steel
Authors: Lupicka O. , Warcholinski B.
Published: December 2017

Here, the effect of adhesion of CrN hard coatings on modified 42CrMo4 steel substrate is presented. Modifications of the substrate are shot peening, nitriding, shot peening, and nitriding joined process. In the shot peening process, two variable process parameters were used: exposure time (t) and air pressure (p). The nitriding process was conducted in the following parameters: nitriding potential Np = 4.86, nitriding time tn = 3 h, and temperature process T = 530°C. Modified substrates were characterized by surface hardness HV5 and hardness profiles on the cross section of samples and by surface roughness parameters. On such prepared substrates, the CrN coating was deposited. The adhesion of CrN coating on modified substrates was defined by the scratch test. Chemical and phase composition of the films was determined using EDS method and X-ray diffraction, respectively. The surface hardness of deposited films was also defined. The substrate of 42CrMo4 steel without mechanical and heat treatment coated by hard CrN film was used as a reference.
A Young, Immunocompetent Woman with Small Bowel and Hepatic Mucormycosis Successfully Treated with Aggressive Surgical Debridements and Antifungal Therapy
Authors: Vikum Daniel , Nordøy Ingvild , Torp Andersen Cecilie , Fevang Børre , Line Pål Dag , Kolrud Finn Kristian , Aukrust Pål , Buanes Trond
Published: December 2017

A 24-year-old woman with coeliac disease and transient neutropenia developed mucormycosis with extensive involvement of the liver and small intestine. She was successfully treated with aggressive surgical debridements and long-term antifungal therapy with liposomal amphotericin B and posaconazole.
A Rare Case of Intermittent Claudication Associated with Impaired Arterial Vasodilation
Authors: Posthuma J. J. , Reesink K. D. , Schütten M. , Ghossein C. , Spaanderman M. E. , ten Cate H. , Schep G.
Published: December 2017

Exercise-related intermittent claudication is marked by reduced blood flow to extremities caused by either stenosis or impaired vascular function. Although intermittent claudication is common in the elderly, it rarely occurs in the young and middle-aged individuals. Here, we report a case of exercise-related claudication in a 41-year-old woman, in the absence of overt vascular pathology. Using a series of imaging and functional tests, we established that her complaints were due to impaired arterial vasodilation, possibly due to a defect in nitrous oxide-mediated dilation. The symptoms were reversible upon administration of a calcium antagonist, showing reversibility of the vascular impairment. Identification of reversible vascular “stiffness” merits consideration in young and otherwise healthy subjects with claudication of unknown origin.
Trans-Synaptic Spread of Amyloid-βin Alzheimer’s Disease: Paths toβ-Amyloidosis
Authors: Pignataro Annabella , Middei Silvia
Published: December 2017

Neuronal activity has a strong causal role in the production and release of the neurotoxicβ-amyloid peptide (Aβ). Because of this close link, gradual accumulation of Aβinto amyloid plaques has been reported in brain areas with intense neuronal activity, including cortical regions that display elevated activation at resting state. However, the link between Aβand activity is not always linear and recent studies report exceptions to the view of “more activity, more plaques.” Here, we review the literature about the activity-dependent production of Aβin both human cases and AD models and focus on the evidences that brain regions with elevated convergence of synaptic connections (herein referred to as brain nodes) are particularly vulnerable to Aβaccumulation. Next, we will examine data supporting the hypothesis that, since Aβis released from synaptic terminals,β-amyloidosis can spread in AD brain by advancing through synaptically connected regions, which makes brain nodes vulnerable to Aβaccumulation. Finally, we consider possible mechanisms that account forβ-amyloidosis progression through synaptically linked regions.
Gastric Residual Volume after Split-Dose Bowel Preparation versus Conventional Single-Dose Regimen before Anesthetic Colonoscopy
Authors: Xue Shi-gui , Chen Han-lin , Cheng Chun-sheng , Huang Bao-sheng , Zhang Hou-de
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to compare gastric residual volume (GRV) in patients given a split-dose versus a conventional single-dose of polyethylene glycol (PEG) preparation before undergoing anesthetic colonoscopy. Methods. In a prospective observational study, we assessed GRV in outpatients undergoing same-day anesthetic gastroscopy and colonoscopy between October 8 and December 30 of 2016. Outpatients were assigned to the split-dose (1 L PEG in the prior evening and 1 L PEG 2–4 h before endoscopy) or single-dose (ingestion of 2 L PEG ≥ 6 h before endoscopy) regimen randomly. Bowel cleansing quality was assessed with the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS). Results. The median GRV in the split-dose group (17 ml, with a range of 0–50 ml; N=65) was significantly lower than that in the single-dose group (22 ml, with a range of 0–62 ml; N=64; p=0.005), with a better bowel cleansing quality (BBPS score 8.05±0.82 versus 7.64±1.21; p=0.028). GRV was not associated with diabetes or the use of medications. Conclusions. GRV after a split-dose preparation and fasting for 2–4 hours is not larger than that after a conventional single-dose preparation and fasting for 6–8 hours. The data indicates that the split-dose bowel preparation might not increase the risk of aspiration.
High Rates of Tramadol Use among Treatment-Seeking Adolescents in Malmö, Sweden: A Study of Hair Analysis of Nonmedical Prescription Opioid Use
Authors: Olsson Martin O. , Öjehagen Agneta , Brådvik Louise , Kronstrand Robert , Håkansson Anders
Published: December 2017

Background. Nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) is a growing problem and tramadol has been suggested as an emerging problem in young treatment-seeking individuals. The aim of the present study was to investigate, through hair analysis, NMPOU in this group and, specifically, tramadol use. Methods. In a study including 73 treatment-seeking adolescents and young adults at an outpatient facility for young substance users, hair specimens could be obtained from 59 subjects. Data were extracted on sociodemographic background variables and psychiatric diagnoses through MINI interviews. Results. In hair analysis, tramadol was by far the most prevalent opioid detected. Thirty-two percent screened positive for opioids, and of those, all but one were positive for tramadol. Ninety-eight percent reported problematic cannabis use. Significantly more opioid-positive patients also screened positive for other (noncannabis) drugs, compared to nonopioid users. Sixty-four percent fulfilled criteria of DSM-IV psychiatric disorders, other than substance use disorders according to MINI. Fifty-three percent met the symptom criteria count of ADHD above cut-off level. Conclusion. In the present setting, tramadol, along with high rates of cannabis use, may represent a novel pattern of substance use among young treatment-seeking subjects with problematic substance use and high rates of concurrent psychiatric problems.
Inhibition of Aluminium Corrosion in 1.0 M HCl by Caffeine: Experimental and DFT Studies
Authors: Beda R. H. B. , Niamien P. M. , Avo Bilé E. B. , Trokourey A.
Published: December 2017

Aluminium corrosion inhibition in 1.0 M hydrochloric acid solution by caffeine has been studied using mass loss technique and quantum chemical calculations based on DFT. The inhibition efficiency was found to increase with increasing concentration of caffeine but decreases with a rise in temperature. The molecule shows the highest inhibition efficiency of 74% at 10−2 M forT=303 K. The experimental data were used to fit isotherms including Langmuir, Temkin, Freundlich, and El-Awady. The best fits were obtained with the Langmuir model and the kinetic-thermodynamic adsorption model of El-Awady. However, it was found that the adsorption parameters suit well with the isotherm of El-Awady which was chosen as the appropriate isotherm. To distinguish between physisorption and chemisorption, the Dubinin-Radushkevich adsorption model was used. The thermodynamic parameters governing the adsorption of caffeine onto aluminium and that of the metal dissolution were calculated and discussed. DFT study gave further insight into the mechanism of the inhibiting action of caffeine.
Metabolic Footprints and Molecular Subtypes in Breast Cancer
Authors: Cappelletti Vera , Iorio Egidio , Miodini Patrizia , Silvestri Marco , Dugo Matteo , Daidone Maria Grazia
Published: December 2017

Cancer treatment options are increasing. However, even among the same tumor histotype, interpatient tumor heterogeneity should be considered for best therapeutic result. Metabolomics represents the last addition to promising “omic” sciences such as genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. Biochemical transformation processes underlying energy production and biosynthetic processes have been recognized as a hallmark of the cancer cell and hold a promise to build a bridge between genotype and phenotype. Since breast tumors represent a collection of different diseases, understanding metabolic differences between molecular subtypes offers a way to identify new subtype-specific treatment strategies, especially if metabolite changes are evaluated in the broader context of the network of enzymatic reactions and pathways. Here, after a brief overview of the literature, original metabolomics data in a series of 92 primary breast cancer patients undergoing surgery at the Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori of Milano are reported highlighting a series of metabolic differences across various molecular subtypes. In particular, the difficult-to-treat luminal B subgroup represents a tumor type which preferentially relies on fatty acids for energy, whereas HER2 and basal-like ones show prevalently alterations in glucose/glutamine metabolism.
A Case of Cardiac Calcified Amorphous Tumor Presenting with Concomitant ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Occipital Stroke and a Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Kyaw Kyaw , Latt Htun , Aung Sammy San Myint , Roongsritong Chanwit
Published: December 2017

Cardiac calcified amorphous tumor (CAT) is an extremely rare benign intracavitary tumor of the heart. It may mimic other cardiac tumors and can present with signs or symptoms of systemic embolization. There are limited data regarding CAT in the literature. We report a case of a 68-year-old woman with a cardiac CAT and mitral annular calcification (MAC), who presented with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and occipital stroke. After extensive review of the literature, we believe that this case is possibly the first description of a cardiac CAT presenting with STEMI. The CAT was surgically removed, and the diagnosis was confirmed by histology. The patient tolerated the surgery and reported no events at 6-month follow-up.
An Accurate Approximate-Analytical Technique for Solving Time-Fractional Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Bishehniasar M. , Salahshour S. , Ahmadian A. , Ismail F. , Baleanu D.
Published: December 2017

The demand of many scientific areas for the usage of fractional partial differential equations (FPDEs) to explain their real-world systems has been broadly identified. The solutions may portray dynamical behaviors of various particles such as chemicals and cells. The desire of obtaining approximate solutions to treat these equations aims to overcome the mathematical complexity of modeling the relevant phenomena in nature. This research proposes a promising approximate-analytical scheme that is an accurate technique for solving a variety of noninteger partial differential equations (PDEs). The proposed strategy is based on approximating the derivative of fractional-order and reducing the problem to the corresponding partial differential equation (PDE). Afterwards, the approximating PDE is solved by using a separation-variables technique. The method can be simply applied to nonhomogeneous problems and is proficient to diminish the span of computational cost as well as achieving an approximate-analytical solution that is in excellent concurrence with the exact solution of the original problem. In addition and to demonstrate the efficiency of the method, it compares with two finite difference methods including a nonstandard finite difference (NSFD) method and standard finite difference (SFD) technique, which are popular in the literature for solving engineering problems.
A Case of Status-Epilepticus-Associated Transient Hyperammonemia in the Emergency Department
Authors: Pelsue Brittany , Rogg Jonathan G.
Published: December 2017

This report describes a case of transient hyperammonemia following tonic-clonic status epilepticus with an initial ammonia level of 537 Umol/L. This appears to be the highest transient ammonia level reported in the literature in this clinical scenario. This is an affirmation that an initial elevated ammonia level in the absence of hepatic dysfunction should be interpreted with caution when associated with status epilepticus. Repeat levels should be drawn to identify transient hyperammonemia and determine the need for treatment if levels do not decrease.
Use of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists in Patients With Heart Failure and Comorbid Diabetes Mellitus or Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Cooper Lauren B. , Lippmann Steven J. , Greiner Melissa A. , Sharma Abhinav , Kelly Jacob P. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Yancy Clyde W. , Heidenreich Paul A. , Hernandez Adrian F.
Published: December 2017

Background

Perceived risks of hyperkalemia and acute renal insufficiency may limit use of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (
MRA
) therapy in patients with heart failure, especially those with diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease.

Methods and Results

Using clinical registry data linked to Medicare claims, we analyzed patients hospitalized with heart failure between 2005 and 2013 with a history of diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease. We stratified patients by
MRA
use at discharge. We used inverse probability–weighted proportional hazards models to assess associations between
MRA
therapy and 30‐day, 1‐year, and 3‐year mortality, all‐cause readmission, and readmission for heart failure, hyperkalemia, and acute renal insufficiency. We performed interaction analyses for differential effects on 3‐year outcomes for reduced, borderline, and preserved ejection fraction. Of 16 848 patients, 12.3% received
MRA
therapy at discharge. Higher serum creatinine was associated with lower odds of
MRA
use (odds ratio, 0.66; 95% confidence interval, 0.61–0.71); serum potassium was not (odds ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.90–1.11). There was no mortality difference between groups.
MRA
therapy was associated with greater risks of readmission for hyperkalemia and acute renal insufficiency and lower risks of long‐term all‐cause readmission. Patients on
MRA
therapy with borderline or preserved ejection fraction had greater risks of readmission for hyperkalemia (
P
=0.02) and acute renal insufficiency (
P
<0.001); patients with reduced ejection fraction did not.

Conclusions

Among patients with heart failure and diabetes mellitus or chronic kidney disease,
MRA
use was associated with lower risk of all‐cause readmission despite greater risk of hyperkalemia and acute renal insufficiency.
Embalming caches
Authors: Eaton-Krauss Marianne
Published: December 2017

Against the background of KV 63's discovery, evidence for embalming caches of the New Kingdom, both inside and outside the Valley of the Kings, is summarily reviewed. Analysis of the location of those in KV 36, KV 46, and the chamber with the burial of Senenmut's parents below his tomb (TT 71) suggests that all three may represent reburials. A survey of earlier and later embalming caches leads to the rejection of arguments for proposing a connection between them and G 7000x, the so-called tomb of Queen Hetepheres I.
The hydrology of the Valley of the Kings*
Authors: Cross Stephen W.
Published: December 2017

A study of the effect of a flash-flood on the ancient topography of the Valley of the Kings based on a visual survey undertaken in February 2006. Examination of the original excavator's reports of tombs cut into the floor of the Valley shows evidence of a flash-flood at the end of the Eighteenth Dynasty, the debris from which concealed a number of tombs intact.
The Prophet of Amun Iuput and His Distinguished Ancestors
Authors: Dodson Aidan
Published: December 2017

The publication of two fragments in a private collection, deriving from the cartonnage mummy-case of the Prophet of Amun Iuput (B), a descendent of Osorkon I through his eldest son, the High Priest of Amun Shoshenq. The paper also publishes a coffin lid bearing the name of Iuput's father, Osorkon D, and now in Stockholm (NME 838), and discusses various issues surrounding the family. Amongst other points, it is concluded that the High Priest Shoshenq should not be equated with any King Shoshenq, and that his mother, Maatkare B, died prior to the accession of Osorkon I.
On the Early History of Giza: The ‘Lost' Wadi Cemetery (Giza Archives Gleanings, III)*
Authors: Manuelian Peter Der
Published: December 2017

The earliest excavations undertaken by George A. Reisner at Giza are summarised, including a little-known area dubbed the Wadi Cemetery, to the north of the Western Cemetery plateau. This area, excavated as early as 1904 and then covered and lost under subsequent Western Cemetery clearance dumps, may hold the key to understanding the earliest chronological development of the Giza Necropolis prior to and during the early reign of Khufu. Selected inscribed objects are considered, particularly the lintel of a baker named Nebu, and comparisons to other areas of modest mud brick cemeteries at Giza and elsewhere are suggested.
A Note on Pronominal Resumption in Earlier Egyptian Relative Clauses*
Authors: Uljas Sami
Published: December 2017

This article presents a reassessment of the evidence of pronominal resumption in Old and Middle Egyptian relative clauses in which a transitive relative form appears with a similarly transitive event complement. It is shown that, contrary to what has been argued before, there is a simple rule conditioning the use of resumptive pronouns to express the object of the complement, provided the latter is infinitival. However, in the case of finite complements, the resumption appears not to be rule governed and it is suggested that such instances may represent the only true exception to the otherwise very strict rules of resumption in Earlier Egyptian relative clauses.
Some Uses of the Resumptive Pronoun in Late Egyptian Relative Clauses*
Authors: Winand Jean
Published: December 2017

The focus of this paper is the presence or absence of the resumptive pronoun in relative clauses in Late Egyptian. Particular attention is given to the causative construction (rdi sḏm.f/sḏm.tw.f) when rd'i is itself conjugated in a relative form. In LEg, the resumptive pronoun is conspicuously absent. The construction rd'i + infinitive is also investigated, which appears to be quite common in Late Egyptian. It is suggested that this construction might have developed in Upper Egypt, where it tends to supersede the pattern rd'i + subjunctive with otherwise very common verbs, like b3k, ŝsp, ẖdb, and grg.
Personal Religious Practice: House Altars at Deir El-Medina*
Authors: Weiss Lara
Published: December 2017

The household assemblage at Deir el-Medina reflects the abandonment process of the village rather than the areas of household activity. The analysis of immobile features is therefore more reliable as a source of information than the study of artefacts. An important immovable feature of the houses at Deir el-Medina is the platform (the so-called lits clos). It is shown that these platforms served as house altars. The custom of building house altars — perhaps inspired by the shape of official temple altars — was probably established during the reign of Amenhotep III in Malkata, and continued until the Third Intermediate Period. Apart from Amarna, this custom was confined to the Theban area.
The Roman uraeus
Authors: Hardwick Tom
Published: December 2017

Publication of a marble fragment carved with a uraeus, and discussion of the depiction of the uraeus in the Roman period.
In Search of Breast Cancer Culprits: Suspecting the Suspected and the Unsuspected
Authors: Dimri Goberdhan P.
Published: December 2017

I would like to welcome breast cancer research community to the first editorial of our newest journal “Breast Cancer: Basic and Clinical Research”. In pursuit of breast cancer culprits, we have come a long way since the early 90's when the first breast cancer susceptibility gene BRCA1 was mapped and cloned. In the past few years, several new loci associated with the various degree of breast cancer risk have been identified using “Candidate Gene Association Study (CGAS) and Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS)” approaches. This editorial is meant to quickly glance over recent findings of these population-based association studies.
Working towards widening participation in nurse education
Authors: Young Kate
Published: December 2017

The widening participation agenda has particular significance for worldwide nursing since it is a profession which is under increasing scrutiny in its recruitment and retention practices. Debate about this agenda within nurse education is strengthened by careful scrutiny of the research within the wider context of higher education, some of which challenges commonly held assumptions. This paper examines four areas of relevance to the UK widening participation agenda: disability, ethnicity, socioeconomic status and family responsibilities. Taken together, they indicate that nurse education operates within a particularly complex context with some important implications for the future design of pre-registration programmes. These complexities should be debated in depth by educational commissioners and providers, in tandem with regulatory bodies.
Dental implants: what have we learnt from long-term follow-up?
Authors: Webb Lyndsey , Coleman Alexandra , Nixon Peter
Published: December 2017

Abstract: At dental hospitals and general dental practices across the UK there are increasing numbers of patients attending with problems related to their dental implants. Many of the most challenging to deal with are those where implants were placed many years previously. With more evidence now available from long-term studies, this paper will look at the causes and incidence of implant and prosthesis complications, and suggest practical methods of management in these cases. The impact of obsolete implant systems on patient treatment will be considered, and how age-related patient factors can alter the management of these cases.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: To explore the needs and treatment burden of patients with implant-retained restorations and consider important factors in the care and management of these patients over time.
Dry mouth in children: an under-reported condition?
Authors: Ivanova Monika M , Wallace Ann , Hegarty Anne M , Harris Jennifer C
Published: December 2017

Abstract: Dry mouth has a profound effect on the oral environment and alters susceptibility to oral disease. It is well-recognized in adults but affected children may not report symptoms even when severe oral dryness is present, potentially leading to late diagnosis and missed opportunities to prevent caries and other adverse sequelae. This article describes the causes and clinical signs of salivary hypofunction in children and young people and documents some associated emotional and social impacts on patients and their families. It is illustrated by four cases where the underlying diagnoses were 22q11 micro-deletion syndrome, congenital salivary gland aplasia, sarcoidosis and medication-induced.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: An awareness of the possible presentations, underlying causes and impacts of dry mouth in children and young people will enable vigilant dental practitioners to diagnose the problem at an earlier stage, so that appropriate enhanced preventive care and additional support can be offered promptly.
Immediate management of avulsion injuries in children
Authors: Kirby Jennifer , Rogers Helen , Agel Mona , Gilchrist Fiona
Published: December 2017

Abstract: Avulsion is the complete displacement of a tooth from the socket and is considered a dental emergency. The pulp is severed from the neurovascular supply apically and the periodontal ligament is ruptured or torn. Expedient management of avulsion injuries is required, including appropriate telephone advice and emergency management. In the majority of cases, re-implantation and splinting is indicated. The ultimate aim of treatment is for an avulsed tooth to achieve periodontal healing. However, unfavourable healing can lead to pulpal necrosis, inflammatory resorption and replacement resorption of the tooth, leading to premature tooth loss.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Avulsion of a tooth is a dental emergency that requires prompt re-implantation and splinting of the tooth. It is imperative that all dentists are able to provide initial telephone advice and emergency management, including re-implantation and splinting.
A flipped classroom approach to teaching oral pathology using virtual microscopy – the glasgow experience
Authors: Makki Zayneb , Bagg Jeremy
Published: December 2017

Abstract: This paper describes a student-centred, integrated teaching model in which oral pathology and oral medicine staff members jointly deliver tutorials in a combined online and face-to-face format. Students are provided with clinical and histopathological information, which they must review and use to answer questions via a Virtual Learning Environment before the tutorial takes place. By reviewing the students' answers online before the teaching session, staff can focus the tutorial itself on resolving knowledge gaps and afterwards post a set of gold standard answers online for students to reflect upon.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article illustrates a combination of teaching methods and modern technologies which integrate clinical with laboratory sciences and enhance the access of students to histopathological materials without the need for access to a traditional microscopy facility.
That first all important meeting with your patient!
Authors: Jayachandran Sivakumar , Walmsley A Damien
Published: December 2017

Abstract: Understanding patient desires during prosthodontic management in the general practice setting may be challenging. Careful recognition of the clues from the patient in the initial few appointments will ease the subsequent treatment for both the dentist and the patient. This article discusses treatment choices in dentistry and how to tailor them to individual patients.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Potential difficult clinical situations can be managed effectively if identified at the earlier stages of meeting with a patient. Therefore, initial consultation appointments are important as a prognostic tool in prosthodontics/restorative treatment planning.
An audit on the professional intervention of smoking
Authors: Moore Jatinder
Published: December 2017

Abstract: Smoking accompanies recognized health risks. It is the dental practitioner's duty to provide professional intervention as recommended by Public Health England. This article describes an audit that aimed to measure the professional intervention provided by dentists, compare this to standards and to improve the amount of intervention. It describes each step of the audit cycle in detail. It is an easily reproducible audit that practitioners can use.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article will describe how an audit to improve the amount of professional intervention given for smoking was designed and implemented and aims to encourage others to do so similarly.