bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Electroacupuncture in a Mouse Model of Fibromyalgia: Role of N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptors and Related Mechanisms
Authors: Lu Kung-Wen , Hsieh Ching-Liang , Yang Jun , Lin Yi-Wen
Published: July 2016

Objective

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activation and downstream transduction pathways are crucial for pain signalling. Fibromyalgia (FM) is a common pain syndrome of unclear aetiology that is often drug-refractory but may benefit from treatment with electroacupuncture (EA). We examined the contributions of NMDAR signalling to FM pain and EA responses in a mouse model.

Methods

A model of FM was established by acid saline injection in 32 mice and subgroups (n=8 each) were treated with EA (2 Hz, 15 min daily for 4 days) or minimal acupuncture (MA). Expression of NMDAR subunits, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), cyclic AMP response element binding protein (pCREB) and their corresponding phospho-activated forms were measured by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Acid saline injection induced significant mechanical hyperalgesia (paw withdrawal threshold 2.18±0.27 g, p<0.05 vs controls), which was reversed by EA (4.23±0.33 g, p<0.05 vs FM group) but not by MA (2.37±0.14 g, p<0.05 vs EA group). Expression levels of phosphorylated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (pNR)1 and pNR2B were significantly increased in the dorsal root ganglion of FM model mice (132.21±14.4% and 116.69±3.22% of control values), whereas NR1 and NR2B levels were unchanged (97.31±3.79% and 97.07%±2.27%, respectively). Expression levels of pCaMKIIα and pCREB were also higher in the FM group, and these changes were reversed by EA but not by MA. Similar changes in expression were observed in spinal cord neurons.

Conclusions

Reduced NMDAR−CaMKIIα−pCREB signalling is implicated in the positive effects of EA in FM. NMDAR signalling components may represent promising therapeutic targets for FM treatment.
HIV-1 infection and pregnancy in young women in Brazil: socioeconomic and drug resistance profiles in a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lima Yanna Andressa Ramos , Reis Mônica Nogueira Guarda , Cardoso Ludimila Paula Vaz , Stefani Mariane Martins Araújo
Published: July 2016

Objectives

To describe socioeconomic and antiretroviral (ARV) drug resistance profiles among young pregnant women infected with HIV-1.

Setting

A public health antenatal programme responsible for screening ∼90 000 pregnant women per year for nine different infectious diseases in Central Western Brazil.

Participants

96 young pregnant women (15–24 years) infected with HIV-1.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Standard interviews and blood samples were taken at the time of recruitment, at the first medical appointment after confirmation of diagnosis of HIV-1 infection, and before ARV prophylaxis initiation. Clinical and laboratory data were retrieved from medical files. HIV-1polgene sequences (entire protease/PR, partial reverse transcriptase/RT) were obtained from plasma RNA. ARV resistance mutations (CPR/Stanford HIV-1; International AIDS Society-USA databases) were identified.

Results

The median age was 21 years; most reported <8 years education; 73% were recently diagnosed. Approximately 20% (19/96) presented late for antenatal care (after 26 gestational weeks), while 49% reported ≥2 previous pregnancies. Possible heterosexual transmission by an HIV-1 infected partner (17%) and commercial sex work (2%) were reported. The median of CD4 cell count was 526 cells/mm3; the median viral load was: 10 056 copies/mL in ARV-naïve (48/96) patients and 5881 copies/mL in ARV-exposed (48/96) patients. Two probable seroconversion cases during pregnancy were identified in adolescents. One mother-to-child transmission case (1.0%) was observed. Transmitted drug resistance among ARV-naïve patients was 9.3% (CI 95% 3.3% to 19.6%); secondary drug resistance among ARV-exposed patients was 12.5% (CI 95% 4.7% to 25.6%).

Conclusions

Despite high access to antenatal care, the low socioeconomic-educational profiles seen in these young HIV-1-infected women highlight the necessity of improved public health educational and preventive strategies regarding HIV infection and early unplanned pregnancy.
Interventions addressing risk factors of ischaemic heart disease in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Ebireri Jennifer , Aderemi Adewale V , Omoregbe Nicholas , Adeloye Davies
Published: July 2016

Background

Ischaemic heart disease (IHD) is currently ranked eighth among the leading causes of deaths in sub-Saharan Africa (sSA). Yet, effective population-wide preventive measures targeting risks in the region are still largely unavailable. We aimed to review population-wide and individual-level interventions addressing risk factors of IHD among adults in sSA.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health and AJOL was conducted to identify studies focusing on population-wide and individual-level interventions targeting risks of IHD among adults in sSA. We conducted a detailed synthesis of basic findings of selected studies.

Results

A total of 2311 studies were identified, with only 9 studies meeting our selection criteria. 3 broad interventions were identified: dietary modifications, physical activity and community-based health promotion measures on tobacco and alcohol cessation. 3 studies reported significant reduction in blood pressure (BP), and another study reported statistically significant reduction in mean total cholesterol. Other outcome measures observed ranged from mild to no reduction in BP, blood glucose, body mass index and total cholesterol, respectively.

Conclusions

We cannot specify with all certainty contextually feasible interventions that can be effective in modifying IHD risk factors in population groups across sSA. We recommend more research on IHD, particularly on the understanding of the burden, geared towards developing and/or strengthening preventive and treatment interventions for the disease in sSA.
Role of Hepatic Macrophages in Alcoholic Liver Disease
Authors: Ju Cynthia , Liangpunsakul Suthat
Published: July 2016

Alcohol consumption can lead to the increase in gut permeability and cause the translocation of bacteria-derived lipopolysaccharides from the gut to the liver, which subsequently activates immune responses. In this process, macrophages play a critical role and involve in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). To define the mechanism underpinning the function of macrophages, it is important to conduct extensive studies to further explicate the phenotypic diversity of macrophages in the context of ALD. In this review, the role of hepatic macrophages in the pathogenesis of ALD is discussed.
Endovascular thrombectomy for M2 occlusions: comparison between forced arterial suction thrombectomy and stent retriever thrombectomy
Authors: Kim Yong-Won , Son Seungnam , Kang Dong-Hun , Hwang Yang-Ha , Kim Yong-Sun
Published: July 2016

Background

To date there has been no direct comparison of two frequently used endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) methods (forced arterial suction thrombectomy (FAST) and stent retriever thrombectomy) in M2 occlusions. We review our experiences with EVT performed using FAST and stent retriever thrombectomy in such cases.

Methods

The subjects comprised 41 patients with an M2 occlusion who underwent EVT (25 with FAST, 16 with stent retriever thrombectomy). The patients' data were retrospectively analyzed to evaluate the technical characteristics and angiographic outcome of the two EVT techniques.

Results

Thrombolysis In Cerebral Infarction (TICI) grades 2b–3 using the first chosen technique did not differ significantly between the two techniques (FAST 64.0% vs stent retriever thrombectomy 81.2%, p=0.305). Time from groin puncture to reperfusion was significantly shorter for stent retriever thrombectomy (53.0 vs 38.5 min; p=0.045). Distal embolization occurred in three cases (12.0%) in the FAST group and in four (26.7%) in the stent retriever group (p=0.362). However, the two techniques did not differ significantly in the final TICI 2b–3 rate (72.0% vs 87.5%; p=0.441). A frequent angiographic finding regarding the failure of FAST was that the M2 occlusion was located immediately after severe acute angulation between M1 and M2.

Conclusions

Stent retriever thrombectomy may provide faster reperfusion than FAST, while the FAST technique might be associated with lower distal embolization and a higher reperfusion rate for the first thrombectomy attempt, but without any significant difference in clinical outcome. When choosing the EVT method for M2 occlusions, consideration of the location of the occlusion and tortuosity between M1 and M2 might be helpful to achieve a better angiographic outcome.
Is intensive care monitoring necessary after coil embolization of unruptured intracranial aneurysms?
Authors: Stetler William R , Griauzde Julius , Saadeh Yamaan , Wilson Thomas J , Al-Holou Wajd N , Chaudhary Neeraj , Thompson B Gregory , Pandey Aditya S , Gemmete Joseph J
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Patients with an unruptured intracranial aneurysm treated with coil embolization are routinely admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after the procedure; however, this practice is questionable. The purpose of this study was to determine if routine admission to the ICU is necessary for patients undergoing coil embolization of an unruptured intracranial aneurysm.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all patients undergoing elective endovascular treatment of an unruptured intracranial aneurysm between 2005 and 2012 at our institution. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of outcome. Cost savings analysis compared ICU admission to step-down or telemetry unit admission.

Results

311 unruptured intracranial aneurysms were treated by coil embolization (190), balloon remodeling (13), or stent-assisted coiling (108). Eleven (3.5%) neurologic complications were noted; 5 (1.6%) of these were permanent. Multivariate regression analysis identified female sex (p=0.028), hypercoagulability (p=0.021), aneurysm size >2 cm (p=0.003), and intraoperative rupture (p<0.001) as predictors of a post-procedural neurologic complication. Cost savings were 57% for admission to a step-down unit and 32% for admission to a telemetry unit compared with ICU admission.

Conclusions

Neurologic complications are rare in the treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms, suggesting that routine ICU admission after treatment may not be necessary. Female sex, history of hypercoagulability, aneurysm size >2 cm, and an intraprocedural rupture were predictive of a postoperative complication. ICU monitoring in these subgroups may therefore be warranted.
Post-construction performance of induced trench rigid culverts
Authors: McGuigan Benjamin L. , Oshati Olajide Samuel , Parker Bethanie A. , Valsangkar Arun J.
Published: July 2016

Induced trench construction is commonly used to reduce earth pressures on rigid circular and box culverts. Most of the reported literature pertains to the performance of induced trench culverts during construction and shortly after construction. This paper addresses the post-construction performance of induced trench culverts. First, results of field inspection reports are presented as an indirect assessment of performance of 90 induced trench culverts installed in New Brunswick that have been in service for up to 24 years. Second, earth pressure measurements are presented from three case studies where prototype installations were monitored over periods ranging from 4 to 9 years. The case studies presented include a single circular culvert, a cast-in-place double-cell box culvert, and a twin circular culvert installation. The fill heights above the instrumented structures varied from 19 to 25 m. All the available data from both the field inspections and earth pressure measurements indicate that the culverts installed in induced trenches are performing in a satisfactory manner.
Synthesis and characterization of a novel chloromethylated polystyrene-g-2-adenine chelating resin and its application to preconcentrate and detect the concentration of mercury ions in edible mushroom samples
Authors: Li Song , Feng Yuping , Fang Lei , Zheng Xuming , Chen Desui , Yao Lanying , Xiong Chunhua
Published: July 2016

Edible mushrooms are widely usedtoday but the heavy metal pollution of edible mushrooms is not conducive to its industrialization. A novel chloromethylated polystyrene-g-2-adenine chelating resin (AR resin) with simple technology, high adsorption capacity, significant selectivity, and good regenerability was synthesized. Combined with the UV-Vis method, it was applied to mercury preconcentration and determination. The results indicated that the AR resin is essentially free from interferences, which can contribute to accurate determination in waters and foods. Optimization of the resin synthesis was carried out by using response surface methodology. The adsorption properties of the resin for Hg(II) were investigated by batch and column experiments. The statically and dynamic saturated adsorption capacities were 383.4 and 417.0 mg/g. The adsorption kinetic and equilibrium data were well fitted to the second-order model and the Langmuir isotherm model, respectively. Furthermore, the resin and its metal complexes were studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis.
Breaking of statistical isotropy and signatures of vector fields during inflation
Authors: Peloso Marco
Published: July 2016

We review work related to the breaking of statistical isotropy during inflation due to the presence of a vector field carrying a coherent vacuum expectation value over our Hubble patch. We also review isotropic signatures of vector fields during inflation.
Progenitors of type Ia supernovae
Authors: Maeda Keiichi , Terada Yukikatsu
Published: July 2016

Natures of progenitors of type Ia Supernovae (SNe Ia) have not yet been clarified. There has been long and intensive discussion on whether the so-called single degenerate (SD) scenario or the double degenerate (DD) scenario, or anything else, could explain a major population of SNe Ia, but the conclusion has not yet been reached. With rapidly increasing observational data and new theoretical ideas, the field of studying the SN Ia progenitors has been quickly developing, and various new insights have been obtained in recent years. This paper aims at providing a summary of the current situation regarding the SN Ia progenitors, both in theory and observations. It seems difficult to explain the emerging diversity seen in observations of SNe Ia by a single population, and we emphasize that it is important to clarify links between different progenitor scenarios and different sub-classes of SNe Ia.
Universe’s memory and spontaneous coherence in loop quantum cosmology
Authors: Pawłowski Tomasz
Published: July 2016

The quantum bounce a priori connects several (semi)classical epochs of universe evolution, however determining if and how well the semiclassicality is preserved in this transition is highly nontrivial. We review the present state of knowledge in that regards in the isotropic sector of loop quantum cosmology (LQC). This knowledge is next extended by studies of an isotropic universe admitting positive cosmological constant (featuring an infinite chain of large universe epochs). It is also shown, that such universe always admits a semiclassical epoch thanks to spontaneous coherence, provided it is semiclassical in certain constant of motion playing the role of energy.
The inner structure of dark matter haloes in the Hubble sequence
Authors: Del Popolo Antonino , Saburova Anna , Belvedere Gaetano
Published: July 2016

We study how galaxy morphology changes the relation among the inner slope [Formula: see text] of galactic density profiles and the stellar mass, and rotation velocity.

We find that the slope [Formula: see text] flattens monotonically from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] going from giant galaxies (ellipticals, spirals) to dwarf galaxies ([Formula: see text]). At masses smaller than [Formula: see text], in the mass range dominated by nonrotational supported galaxies (e.g. dSphs), the slope steepens due to the offset in angular momentum of rotational dominated, and nonrotational dominated galaxies.

A comparison with SPH simulations finds our result in qualitative agreement with them, but the inner slope [Formula: see text] at small stellar masses is flatter than that in their simulations. Density profiles become cuspy for [Formula: see text] in the range [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text], similarly to Õnorbe.
Global properties of physically interesting Lorentzian spacetimes
Authors: Nawarajan Deloshan , Visser Matt
Published: July 2016

Under normal circumstances most members of the general relativity community focus almost exclusively on the local properties of spacetime, such as the locally Euclidean structure of the manifold and the Lorentzian signature of the metric tensor. When combined with the classical Einstein field equations this gives an extremely successful empirical model of classical gravity and classical matter — at least as long as one does not ask too many awkward questions about global issues, (such as global topology and global causal structure). We feel however that this is a tactical error — even without invoking full-fledged “quantum gravity” we know that the standard model of particle physics is also an extremely good representation of some parts of empirical reality; and we had better be able to carry over all the good features of the standard model of particle physics — at least into the realm of semi-classical quantum gravity. Doing so gives us some interesting global features that spacetime should possess: On physical grounds spacetime should be space-orientable, time-orientable, and spacetime-orientable, and it should possess a globally defined tetrad (vierbein, or in general a globally defined vielbein/[Formula: see text]-bein). So on physical grounds spacetime should be parallelizable. This strongly suggests that the metric is not the fundamental physical quantity; a very good case can be made for the tetrad being more fundamental than the metric. Furthermore, a globally-defined “almost complex structure” is almost unavoidable. Ideas along these lines have previously been mooted, but much is buried in the pre- arXiv literature and is either forgotten or inaccessible. We shall revisit these ideas taking a perspective very much based on empirical physical observation.
Gravitational Compton Scattering from the Worldline Formalism
Authors: Ahmadiniaz Naser , Corradini Olindo , Dávila José Manuel , Schubert Christian
Published: July 2016

We report on an ongoing study of photon amplitudes, graviton amplitudes and mixed photon-graviton amplitudes at tree-level using the worldline formalism. We explicitly recalculate the amplitude with one photon and one graviton coupled to a scalar propagator, relevant for graviton photoproduction. We comment on the factorization properties of this amplitude, and outline a generalization to similar processes involving more gravitons.
Small Scale Isocurvature Perturbation of Weakly Interacting Massive Particle
Authors: Choi Ki-Young , Gong Jinn-Ouk , Shin Chang Sub
Published: July 2016

It is known that the smallest size of the structures of the Universe with the weakly interacting massive dark matter is determined by the scale that enters the Hubble horizon at the time of kinetic decoupling of WIMP. This comes from the fact that the perturbation at smaller scales is erased due to the collisional damping during the kinetic decoupling. However the isocurvature mode is not affected and continue to be constant. We discuss about the generation of the isocurvature mode of WIMP dark matter at small scales recently found by Choi, Gong, and Shin1 and its implications for the indirect detection of dark matter through the formation of the small size of halos.
Hypermetabolism and hypercatabolism of skeletal muscle accompany mitochondrial stress following severe burn trauma
Authors: Ogunbileje John O. , Porter Craig , Herndon David N. , Chao Tony , Abdelrahman Doaa R. , Papadimitriou Anastasia , Chondronikola Maria , Zimmers Teresa A. , Reidy Paul T. , Rasmussen Blake B. , Sidossis Labros S.
Published: July 2016

Burn trauma results in prolonged hypermetabolism and skeletal muscle wasting. How hypermetabolism contributes to muscle wasting in burn patients remains unknown. We hypothesized that oxidative stress, cytosolic protein degradation, and mitochondrial stress as a result of hypermetabolism contribute to muscle cachexia postburn. Patients ( n = 14) with burns covering >30% of their total body surface area were studied. Controls ( n = 13) were young healthy adults. We found that burn patients were profoundly hypermetabolic at both the skeletal muscle and systemic levels, indicating increased oxygen consumption by mitochondria. In skeletal muscle of burn patients, concurrent activation of mTORC1 signaling and elevation in the fractional synthetic rate paralleled increased levels of proteasomes and elevated fractional breakdown rate. Burn patients had greater levels of oxidative stress markers as well as higher expression of mtUPR-related genes and proteins, suggesting that burns increased mitochondrial stress and protein damage. Indeed, upregulation of cytoprotective genes suggests hypermetabolism-induced oxidative stress postburn. In parallel to mtUPR activation postburn, mitochondrial-specific proteases (LONP1 and CLPP) and mitochondrial translocases (TIM23, TIM17B, and TOM40) were upregulated, suggesting increased mitochondrial protein degradation and transport of preprotein, respectively. Our data demonstrate that proteolysis occurs in both the cytosolic and mitochondrial compartments of skeletal muscle in severely burned patients. Increased mitochondrial protein turnover may be associated with increased protein damage due to hypermetabolism-induced oxidative stress and activation of mtUPR. Our results suggest a novel role for the mitochondria in burn-induced cachexia.
Ventral tegmental area orexin 1 receptors promote palatable food intake and oppose postingestive negative feedback
Authors: Terrill Sarah J. , Hyde Kellie M. , Kay Kristen E. , Greene Hayden E. , Maske Calyn B. , Knierim Amanda E. , Davis Jon F. , Williams Diana L.
Published: July 2016

Hypothalamic orexin neurons project to numerous brain areas, including the ventral tegmental area (VTA), which is involved in motivation and food-seeking behavior. Here we address how exogenously administered orexin-A and endogenous orexin 1 receptor (OX1R) activation in the VTA affects feeding behavior. We hypothesized that orexin-A and OX1R antagonist SB334867 delivered to the VTA, at doses that were subthreshold for effect when injected into the ventricle, would affect intake of palatable foods in multiple test situations. We first used a hedonic feeding model in which satiated rats selectively consume a high-fat diet (HFD). Intra-VTA orexin-A stimulated additional consumption of chow and increased HFD intake in this model. In ad libitum-fed rats given daily 30-min test sessions, intra-VTA orexin-A also increased intake of HFD and 0.1 M sucrose. Further analysis of licking patterns revealed that that VTA orexin-A increased meal size and licking burst size only toward the end of the meal. Consistent with this finding, a subthreshold dose of VTA orexin-A prevented intake suppression induced by gastrointestinal nutrient infusion. Surprisingly, intra-VTA orexin-A had no effect on operant responding for sucrose pellets on a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement. A role for endogenous VTA OX1R stimulation is supported by our finding that bilateral VTA injection of the selective OX1R antagonist SB334867 suppressed 0.1 M sucrose intake. Together, our data suggest that OX1R activity in the VTA facilitates food intake, potentially by counteracting postingestive negative feedback that would normally suppress feeding later in a meal.
Glutamatergic drive facilitates synaptic inhibition of dorsal vagal motor neurons after experimentally induced diabetes in mice
Authors: Boychuk Carie R. , Smith Bret N.
Published: July 2016

The role of central regulatory circuits in modulating diabetes-associated glucose dysregulation has only recently been under rigorous investigation. One brain region of interest is the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV), which contains preganglionic parasympathetic motor neurons that regulate subdiaphragmatic visceral function. Previous research has demonstrated that glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission are independently remodeled after chronic hyperglycemia/hypoinsulinemia. However, glutamatergic circuitry within the dorsal brain stem impinges on GABAergic regulation of the DMV. The present study investigated the role of glutamatergic neurotransmission in synaptic GABAergic control of DMV neurons after streptozotocin (STZ)-induced hyperglycemia/hypoinsulinemia by using electrophysiological recordings in vitro. The frequency of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) was elevated in DMV neurons from STZ-treated mice. The effect was abolished in the presence of the ionotropic glutamate receptor blocker kynurenic acid or the sodium channel blocker tetrodotoxin, suggesting that after STZ-induced hyperglycemia/hypoinsulinemia, increased glutamatergic receptor activity occurs at a soma-dendritic location on local GABA neurons projecting to the DMV. Although sIPSCs in DMV neurons normally demonstrated considerable amplitude variability, this variability was significantly increased after STZ-induced hyperglycemia/hypoinsulinemia. The elevated amplitude variability was not related to changes in quantal release, but rather correlated with significantly elevated frequency of sIPSCs in these mice. Taken together, these findings suggest that GABAergic regulation of central vagal circuitry responsible for the regulation of energy homeostasis undergoes complex functional reorganization after several days of hyperglycemia/hypoinsulinemia, including both glutamate-dependent and -independent forms of plasticity.
Optimal visuotactile integration for velocity discrimination of self-hand movements
Authors: Chancel M. , Blanchard C. , Guerraz M. , Montagnini A. , Kavounoudias A.
Published: July 2016

Illusory hand movements can be elicited by a textured disk or a visual pattern rotating under one's hand, while proprioceptive inputs convey immobility information (Blanchard C, Roll R, Roll JP, Kavounoudias A. PLoS One 8: e62475, 2013). Here, we investigated whether visuotactile integration can optimize velocity discrimination of illusory hand movements in line with Bayesian predictions. We induced illusory movements in 15 volunteers by visual and/or tactile stimulation delivered at six angular velocities. Participants had to compare hand illusion velocities with a 5°/s hand reference movement in an alternative forced choice paradigm. Results showed that the discrimination threshold decreased in the visuotactile condition compared with unimodal (visual or tactile) conditions, reflecting better bimodal discrimination. The perceptual strength (gain) of the illusions also increased: the stimulation required to give rise to a 5°/s illusory movement was slower in the visuotactile condition compared with each of the two unimodal conditions. The maximum likelihood estimation model satisfactorily predicted the improved discrimination threshold but not the increase in gain. When we added a zero-centered prior, reflecting immobility information, the Bayesian model did actually predict the gain increase but systematically overestimated it. Interestingly, the predicted gains better fit the visuotactile performances when a proprioceptive noise was generated by covibrating antagonist wrist muscles. These findings show that kinesthetic information of visual and tactile origins is optimally integrated to improve velocity discrimination of self-hand movements. However, a Bayesian model alone could not fully describe the illusory phenomenon pointing to the crucial importance of the omnipresent muscle proprioceptive cues with respect to other sensory cues for kinesthesia.
Contemporary Neuroradiographic Assessment of the Cochleo-Carotid Partition
Authors: Shoman Nael M. , Samy Ravi N. , Pensak Myles L.
Published: July 2016

Purpose: The cochleo-carotid partition (CCP) describes the intimate anatomic relationship between the petrous carotid artery and the cochlear basal turn. This partition bears significant surgical and unique clinical relevance. The purpose of this paper is to radiographically assess the CCP and discuss its clinical implications. Methods: A total of 155 consecutive fine-cut temporal bone CT scans were retrospectively reviewed, and study scans were digitally analyzed in both axial and coronal views. The shortest distance between the petrous carotid canal and the cochlear basal turn was measured. Results: In all, 310 temporal bones were studied, with a mean CCP of 1.9 mm (range 0.2-8.5, SD 1.1). The following CCP measurements were obtained: ≤1.0 mm [n = 46 (14.8%)]; 1.1-2.0 mm [n = 161 (51.9%)]; 2.1-3.0 mm [n = 29 (9.4%)], and ≥4.0 mm [n = 12 (4.2%)]. One temporal bone (0.3%) had complete CCP dehiscence. There was a positive correlation between each patient's right and left CCP measures (p < 0.005) and a significant negative correlation between CCP grade and age (p = 0.027). Conclusions: The CCP is a narrow anatomic confinement measuring ≤2 mm in 66.7% of patients. Potential implications of the CCP include iatrogenic risks, its possible function as a third inner ear window in patients with audiovestibular symptoms, and pathophysiology of new-onset tinnitus following cochlear implantation.
MicroRNA-125b Suppresses Ovarian Cancer Progression via Suppression of the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Pathway by Targeting the SET Protein
Authors: Ying Xiaoyan , Wei Kuang , Lin Zhe , Cui Yugui , Ding Jie , Chen Yun , Xu Boqun
Published: July 2016

Background/Aims: MicroRNA-125b (miR-125b) is overexpressed in several types of cancer and contributes to chemotherapy resistance. However, its role in epithelial ovarian carcinoma remains unknown. The goal of this study was to identify the relationship between miR-125b and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in ovarian cancer. Methods: In total, 55patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) were included in our study. The relative expression of miR-125b was measured using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).The protein expression of SET and EMT-related indicators in cell lines were assessed by Western blot. The regulation of SET by miR-125b was confirmed using luciferase reporter assays. The effect of miR-125b on metastasis was evaluated using an in vivo metastasis model. Results: miR-125b expression was markedly lower in the EOC specimens. Ectopic expression of miR-125b in EOC cells significantly inhibited tumor invasion.miR-125b expression was negatively associated with both EMT and SET expression, in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistic studies identified SET as a direct target of miR-125b, and the downregulation of SET, observed during tumor migration, was affected by the overexpression of miR125b. Conclusion: miR-125b suppresses EOC cell migration and invasion by targeting the SET protein, and this study may provide a novel mechanism for understanding the progression of EOC.
HIF-1α Activation Attenuates IL-6 and TNF-α Pathways in Hippocampus of Rats Following Transient Global Ischemia
Authors: Xing Jihong , Lu Jian
Published: July 2016

Background/Aims: This study was to examine the role played by hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1α) in regulating pro-inflammatory cytokines (PICs) pathway in the rat hippocampus after cardiac arrest (CA) induced-transient global ischemia followed by cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Those PICs include interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Methods: A rat model of CA induced by asphyxia was used in the current study. Following CPR, the hippocampus CA1 region was obtained for ELISA to determine the levels of HIF-1α and PICs; and Western Blot analysis to determine the protein levels of PIC receptors. Results: Our data show that IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were significant elevated in the hippocampus after CPR as compared with control group. This was companied with increasing of HIF-1α and the time courses for HIF-1α and PICs were similar. In addition, PIC receptors, namely IL-1R, IL-6R and TNFR1 were upregulated in CA rats. Also, stimulation of HIF-1α by systemic administration of ML228, HIF-1α activator, significantly attenuated the amplified IL-6/IL-6R and TNF-α /TNFR1 pathway in the hippocampus of CA rats, but did not modify IL-1β and its receptor. Moreover, ML228 attenuated upregulated expression of Caspase-3 indicating cell apoptosis evoked by CA. Conclusion: Transient global ischemia induced by CA increases the levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α and thereby leads to enhancement in their respective receptor in the rat hippocampus. Stabilization of HIF-1α plays a role in attenuating amplified expression IL-6R, TNFR1 and Caspase-3 in the processing of transient global ischemia. Results of our study suggest that PICs contribute to cerebral injuries evoked by transient global ischemia and in this pathophysiological process activation of HIF-1α improves tissues against ischemic injuries. Our data revealed specific signaling pathways in alleviating CA-evoked global cerebral ischemia by elucidating that HIF-1α plays an important role in regulating PIC signal pathways and Caspase-3. The subsequent induction of HIF-1α and its target signals is likely a part of the intrinsic neuroprotective effects aimed at attenuating damage as a result of global cerebral ischemia. Thus, targeting one or more of these signaling molecules has clinical implications for treatment and improvement of CA-evoked global cerebral ischemia often observed in clinics.
Prognostic Significance of Monocytes and Monocytic Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Treated with R-CHOP
Authors: Wu Chongyang , Wu Xiangyang , Liu Xiaoning , Yang Peiqi , Xu Juan , Chai Ye , Guo Qi , Wang Zhiping , Zhang Liansheng
Published: July 2016

Background/Aims: To evaluate the prognostic significance of monocytes and monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSCs) for patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) under R-CHOP chemotherapy. Methods: Flow cytometry (FCM) was applied to measure M-MDSCs (CD14+ HLA-DRlow/− M-MDSCs). Results: Analysis of 144 patients with DLBCL under R-CHOP treatment showed that the 5-year overall survival rate was 61.09% (95% CI: 43.72%-72.56%) and the average survival time of patients with monocytes (%) ≥ 8% was shorter than those with monocytes (%) < 8% (P = 0.0036). Further stratified analysis suggested that the average survival time of patients with monocytes (%) ≥ 8% was shorter than patients with monocytes (%) < 8% in the moderate outcome group (R-IPI = 1, 2) (P = 0.0168) and in the poorest outcome group (R-IPI > 2) (P = 0.0397), meanwhile, there was no significant difference in survival of patients with monocytes (%) ≥ 8% compared to patients with monocytes (%) < 8% in the best outcome group (R-IPI = 0) (P = 0.3106). Both of monocytes (%) and M-MDSCs were decreased in different R-IPI groups after 4-course of R-CHOP chemotherapy (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results indicated that monocytes (%) and M-MDSCs combined with R-IPI may be a simple and efficient immunological index to evaluate prognosis.
Novel KCNQ3 Mutation in a Large Family with Benign Familial Neonatal Epilepsy: A Rare Cause of Neonatal Seizures
Authors: Maljevic Snezana , Vejzovic Sabina , Bernhard Matthias K. , Bertsche Astrid , Weise Sebastian , Döcker Miriam , Lerche Holger , Lemke Johannes R. , Merkenschlager Andreas , Syrbe Steffen
Published: July 2016

Benign familial neonatal seizures (BFNS) present a rare familial epilepsy syndrome caused by genetic alterations in the voltage-gated potassium channels Kv7.2 and Kv7.3, encoded by KCNQ2 and KCNQ3. While most BFNS families carry alterations in KCNQ2, mutations in KCNQ3 appear to be less common. Here, we describe a family with 6 individuals presenting with neonatal focal and generalized seizures. Genetic testing revealed a novel KCNQ3 variant, c.835G>T, cosegregating with seizures in 4 tested individuals. This variant results in a substitution of the highly conserved amino acid valine localized within the pore-forming transmembrane segment S5 (p.V279F). Functional investigations in Xenopus laevis oocytes revealed a loss of function, which supports p.V279F as a pathogenic mutation. When p.V279F was coexpressed with the wild-type (WT) Kv7.2 subunits, the resulting potassium currents were about 10-fold reduced compared to the WT Kv7.3 and Kv7.2 coexpression. Genotype-phenotype correlation shows an incomplete penetrance of p.V279F. Response to antiepileptic treatment was variable, but evaluation of treatment response remained challenging due to the self-limiting character of the disease. The identification of the pathogenic variant helped to avoid unnecessary investigations in affected family members and allowed guided therapy.
Perinatal Advantages and Disadvantages of Being Underweight before Pregnancy: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Trojner Bregar Andreja , Blickstein Isaac , Bržan Šimenc Gabrijela , Janša Vid , Verdenik Ivan , Lučovnik Miha , Tul Nataša
Published: July 2016

Aims: To evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of being underweight before pregnancy. Methods: Cohort study of a large population-based dataset of singleton births was used to compare maternal and neonatal outcomes of pre-gravid underweight body mass index (BMI <18.5 kg/m2) women with pre-gravid normal weight controls (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m2). Results: A total of 10,995 pre-gravid underweight and 146,155 pre-gravid normal weight mothers were compared. The mean maternal age and gestational age were not different but lean mothers were significantly and more frequently primiparous, had a higher incidence of births at <36 and <32 weeks' gestation, and had a significantly higher incidence of low and very low birth weight infants. Lean mothers had a significantly lower incidence of birth weights >4,000 g, less cesarean births and a lower incidence of gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders. Conclusions: A tradeoff exists between the advantages of being lean before pregnancy in terms of less maternal morbidity in return for gaining a more advanced gestational age and higher birth weight.
Structured Exercise in Obese Diabetic Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Leehey David J. , Collins Eileen , Kramer Holly J. , Cooper Cheryl , Butler Jolene , McBurney Conor , Jelinek Christine , Reda Domenic , Edwards Lonnie , Garabedian Anne , O'Connell Susan
Published: July 2016

Background: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), obesity, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are generally physically inactive and may benefit from exercise. Our objective was to determine the effects of structured exercise on physical fitness, kidney function, endothelial function, inflammation, and body composition in such patients. Methods: In this randomized, controlled trial, 36 male patients (age 49-81) were randomly assigned to exercise + diet management (n = 18) or diet alone (n = 18). Participants were eligible if they had type 2 DM, body mass index >30 kg/m2, CKD stages 2-4, and persistent proteinuria (>200 mg/g creatinine for >3 months). The exercise intervention was a 12-week (3 days per week) program of aerobic and resistance training followed by 40 weeks of home exercise. The primary outcome measure was change from baseline in urine protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR) at 12 and 52 weeks. Results: Thirty-two participants completed the study (14 exercise + diet, 18 diet-alone group). The change from baseline in UPCR was slightly greater in the diet-alone group at 12 weeks but not at 52 weeks. Changes in both symptom-limited and constant-workrate treadmill times were significantly higher in the exercise + diet group at 12 weeks but not at 52 weeks. There were no significant differences in urine albumin to creatinine ratio, estimated glomerular filtration rate, endothelial function, inflammation, or body composition between the groups. Conclusions: In obese diabetic subjects with CKD, structured exercise improved exercise capacity but not body composition or renal function. This is a work of the US Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the USA. Foreign copyrights may apply. Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
Intra-Abdominal Adhesions Make the Interpretation of Magnetic Resonance Enterography in Crohn's Disease More Difficult
Authors: Aaltonen Gisele , Keränen Ilona , Carpelan-Holmström Monika , Savolainen Ritja , Lindén Riikka , Lepistö Anna
Published: July 2016

Aims: The present study compares preoperative magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) accuracy in diagnosing stenoses, abscesses and fistulas to intraoperative findings in Crohn's disease patients, and determines whether discordance between these methods alter surgical plans. Methods: Our study included 55 consecutive patients scheduled for elective surgery due to Crohn's disease in a single institution between January 2011 and May 2015, whose surgical findings were also compared to preoperative MREs. Data were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Among these 55 patients, we found 80 stenoses, 5 abscesses and 18 fistulas during surgery. The MRE sensitivity, specificity and accuracy, respectively, reached 100, 77.8 and 96.4% for stenoses; 80.0, 90.0 and 89.1% for abscesses; and 77.8, 83.8 and 81.8% for fistulas. The operative plan was modified for 7 patients (12.7%) due to erroneous MRE diagnoses. No patient needed conversion or an unplanned stoma placement due to an incorrect diagnosis using MRE. The MRE diagnosis did not agree with the surgical findings for 36 lesions, 16 of which resulted from adhesions that explained the incorrect MRE diagnoses. Conclusions: Hence, while MRE is a useful diagnostic tool preoperatively in Crohn's disease patients, the presence of intra-abdominal adhesions may cause erroneous diagnosis through MRE.
O ensino de gramática na Primeira República (1889-1930): uma análise da gramática expositiva, de Eduardo Carlos Pereira
Authors: Bunzen Clecio , Medeiros Rejane Rodrigues Almeida de
Published: July 2016

No ensino de língua portuguesa ministrado para o curso secundário, entre 1889 e 1930, observa-se a primazia da gramática, em relação à leitura e escrita de textos. O objetivo deste artigo é discutir o ensino de gramática para o 2º e 3º ano do curso secundário, na Primeira República (1889-1930), a partir da análise da Gramática expositiva: curso superior, de Eduardo Carlos Pereira. A obra, tendo tido um número elevado de reedições, desde sua publicação em 1907, pode ser representativa do ensino de gramática, no período. A análise se inscreve no campo da Linguística Aplicada, estabelecendo um diálogo com outras áreas do conhecimento, como História da Educação, História das Disciplinas Escolares, História das Ideias Linguísticas, Sociolinguística e Teoria Literária. Nas duas últimas décadas do século XIX e nas três primeiras décadas do século XX, prevaleceu no ensino de gramática a gramática expositiva, recomendando uma norma única da língua e revisitando elementos da tradição ocidental de estudos gramaticais, tanto na explicação das regras como na sua exemplificação por meio de excertos extraídos da literatura, sobretudo a portuguesa.
Escritas da memória: autoria e identidade cultural
Authors: Goldstein Norma Seltzer , Capo Francesco Antonio
Published: July 2016

Este artigo retoma pesquisa ainda em desenvolvimento sobre a relação entre escritas da memória, discurso e identidade cultural. A escolha do tema apoia-se na ideia de que memória, identidade e sentimento de pertença se relacionam intrinsecamente. O espaço da memória é também o espaço da ressignificação: o espaço de construir e reconstruir representações e identidades. Construímos representações do passado de acordo com as representações que fazemos do presente, e tanto umas quanto as outras são atravessadas pelas representações social e historicamente construídas. Tais concepções associam-se aos conceitos de autonomia (FREIRE, 2002), agência (BAZERMAN, 2011; KLEIMAN, 2006) e autoria (BAZERMAN, 2011).
Os produtores às voltas com o tempo e com a memória
Authors: Plane Sylvie , Cabral Ana Lucia Tinoco
Published: July 2016

Este artigo aborda as relações entre a escrita o tempo e a memória. Examina em primeiro lugar a maneira como a escrita se inscreve na temporalidade complexa e evoca as consequências que esse fato tem sobre a atividade de linguagem do produtor de texto uma vez que este é levado a reconstruir mentalmente a imagem de seu próprio texto ao mesmo tempo em que o produz. O artigo ilustra esse fenômeno apoiando-se sobre uma experiência ao longo da qual os alunos foram levados a produzir várias memórias de uma narrativa. A análise das produções realizadas indica que os produtores põem em prática de forma diversificada e evolutiva a memorização de seu próprio texto. A ocorrência de duas estratégias, uma focalizada na esquematização e outra, na memorização dos constituintes linguísticos, fica assim posta em evidência.
Memória literária, leitura e ensino
Authors: Micheletti Guaraciaba , Gebara Ana Elvira L.
Published: July 2016

O ensino da literatura mesmo quando centrado na leitura é, muitas vezes, negligenciado diante de outras necessidades da sala de aula. Privilegia-se o ensino da leitura, sem objeto bem definido, por se apresentar como uma preocupação de todas as áreas e não somente das aulas de língua materna. Porém, um olhar mais atento revela que é exatamente a leitura dos textos literários que traz respostas para questões de outras esferas (LAJOLO, 1982; 1993; COSSON, 2006). Neste artigo, tomando como base, a intertextualidade, um dos elementos constitutivos dos textos literários (MAINGUENEAU, 2004), propõem-se algumas reflexões sobre o papel do letramento literário, apresentando sugestões de atividades, baseadas no conceito de professor como mediador dos diálogos constituídos no texto literário e de outros diálogos derivados destes na sala de aula.
Long-Term Persistence of Newly Initiated Warfarin Therapy in Chinese Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Wang Zhi-Zun , Du Xin , Wang Wei , Tang Ri-Bo , Luo Jing-Guang , Li Chao , Chang San-Shuai , Liu Xiao-Hui , Sang Cai-Hua , Yu Rong-Hui , Long De-Yong , Wu Jia-Hui , Bai Rong , Liu Nian , Ruan Yan-Fei , Dong Jian-Zeng , Ma Chang-Sheng
Published: July 2016

Background—

Despite its therapeutic efficacy, warfarin is extremely underused in Chinese patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Whether the nonpersistence of warfarin treatment contributes to its underuse is not known. The aims of this study were to determine nonpersistence rates of newly started warfarin treatment in Chinese patients with nonvalvular AF and to identify the factors associated with discontinuation of the treatment.

Methods and Results—

We identified 1461 patients with nonvalvular AF enrolled in the Chinese Atrial Fibrillation Registry (CAFR) who newly started on warfarin therapy in the period between August 1, 2011, and June 30, 2014. During a follow-up of 426±232 days, 22.1% of patients discontinued warfarin within 3 months, 44.4% within 1 year, and 57.6% within 2 years of initiation of therapy. Patients with no or partial insurance coverage had a higher likelihood to discontinue warfarin than those with full insurance coverage (adjusted hazard ratio 1.65, 95% confidence interval [1.03–2.64];
P
=0.038 and 1.66 [1.13–2.42];
P
=0.009, respectively). Paroxysmal AF (1.56 [1.28–1.92];
P
<0.0001), no prior stroke/transient ischemic attack/thromboembolism (1.60 [1.24–2.05];
P
=0.0003), and no dyslipidemia (1.34 [1.06–1.70];
P
=0.016) were also found to be independent predictors for nonpersistence of warfarin therapy.

Conclusions—

Nonpersistence of warfarin treatment becomes a serious problem for stroke prevention in Chinese patients with nonvalvular AF. Our findings can be used to identify patients who require closer attention or to develop better management strategy for oral anticoagulation therapy.