bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraspinal microstimulation and diaphragm activation after cervical spinal cord injury
Authors: Mercier L. M. , Gonzalez-Rothi E. J. , Streeter K. A. , Posgai S. S. , Poirier A. S. , Fuller D. D. , Reier P. J. , Baekey D. M.
Published: November 2016

Intraspinal microstimulation (ISMS) using implanted electrodes can evoke locomotor movements after spinal cord injury (SCI) but has not been explored in the context of respiratory motor output. An advantage over epidural and direct muscle stimulation is the potential of ISMS to selectively stimulate components of the spinal respiratory network. The present study tested the hypothesis that medullary respiratory activity could be used to trigger midcervical ISMS and diaphragm motor unit activation in rats with cervical SCI. Studies were conducted after acute (hours) and subacute (5–21 days) C2 hemisection (C2Hx) injury in adult rats. Inspiratory bursting in the genioglossus (tongue) muscle was used to trigger a 250-ms train stimulus (100 Hz, 100–200 μA) to the ventral C4 spinal cord, targeting the phrenic motor nucleus. After both acute and subacute injury, genioglossus EMG activity effectively triggered ISMS and activated diaphragm motor units during the inspiratory phase. The ISMS paradigm also evoked short-term potentiation of spontaneous inspiratory activity in the previously paralyzed hemidiaphragm (i.e., bursting persisting beyond the stimulus period) in ∼70% of the C2Hx animals. We conclude that medullary inspiratory output can be used to trigger cervical ISMS and diaphragm activity after SCI. Further refinement of this method may enable “closed-loop-like” ISMS approaches to sustain ventilation after severe SCI.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We examined the feasibility of using intraspinal microstimulation (ISMS) of the cervical spinal cord to evoke diaphragm activity ipsilateral to acute and subacute hemisection of the upper cervical spinal cord of the rat. This proof-of-concept study demonstrated the efficacy of diaphragm activation, using an upper airway respiratory EMG signal to trigger ISMS at the level of the ipsilesional phrenic nucleus during acute and advanced postinjury intervals.
On Molecular Topological Properties of TiO2 Nanotubes
Authors: De Nilanjan
Published: November 2016

Titania nanotube is a well-known semiconductor and has numerous technological applications. In chemical graph theory, topological indices provide an important tool to quantify the molecular structure and it is found that there is a strong correlation between the properties of chemical compounds and their molecular structure. Among different topological indices, degree-based topological indices are most studied and have some important applications. In this study, several old and new degree-based topological indices have been investigated for titania TiO2 nanotubes.
Improvement of Roller Bearing Diagnosis with Unlabeled Data Using Cut Edge Weight Confidence Based Tritraining
Authors: Qin Wei-Li , Zhang Wen-Jin , Wang Zhen-Ya
Published: November 2016

Roller bearings are one of the most commonly used components in rotational machines. The fault diagnosis of roller bearings thus plays an important role in ensuring the safe functioning of the mechanical systems. However, in most cases of bearing fault diagnosis, there are limited number of labeled data to achieve a proper fault diagnosis. Therefore, exploiting unlabeled data plus few labeled data, this paper proposed a roller bearing fault diagnosis method based on tritraining to improve roller bearing diagnosis performance. To overcome the noise brought by wrong labeling into the classifiers training process, the cut edge weight confidence is introduced into the diagnosis framework. Besides a small trick called suspect principle is adopted to avoid overfitting problem. The proposed method is validated in two independent roller bearing fault experiment vibrational signals that both include three types of faults: inner-ring fault, outer-ring fault, and rolling element fault. The results demonstrate the desirable diagnostic performance improvement by the proposed method in the extreme situation where there is only limited number of labeled data.
Tumor Take Rate Optimization for Colorectal Carcinoma Patient-Derived Xenograft Models
Authors: Gock Michael , Kühn Florian , Mullins Christina Susanne , Krohn Mathias , Prall Friedrich , Klar Ernst , Linnebacher Michael
Published: November 2016

Background. For development of individualized treatment on a routine basis, transfer of patients’ tumor tissue in a xenograft model (i.e., generation of patient-derived xenografts (PDX)) is desirable for molecular, biochemical, or functional analyses. Drawbacks are dissatisfactory tumor take rates, the necessity of fast tumor tissue processing, and extensive logistics demanding teamwork of surgeons, pathologists, and laboratory researchers. Methods. The take rates of ten colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue samples in immunodeficient mice were compared after direct cryopreservation and after a 24 h cooling period at 4°C prior to cryopreservation. Additionally, the effect of simultaneous Matrigel application on the take rates was investigated. Beside take rates, tumor growth characteristics and cell culture success were analyzed. Results. Tumor takes of CRC tissue samples were significantly improved after Matrigel application (8 versus 15 takes, p=0.04). As expected, they diminished furthermore after 24 h cooling. Application of Matrigel could counteract this decrease significantly (2 versus 7 takes, p=0.03). Cumulative take rate after cryopreservation was satisfactory (70%). Conclusion. Matrigel application after 24 h delay in tissue processing facilitates CRC PDX model development. These data help developing strategies for individualized tumor therapies in the context of multicenter clinical studies and for basic research on primary patient tumors.
Swift and Complete Healing of Digital Ulcers after Macitentan Treatment
Authors: Giner Serret Emilio
Published: November 2016

Digital ulcers are a burdensome and painful condition with sparse options of treatment. We report the case of a 78-year-old female patient with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis that sequentially developed digital ulcers. After the appearance of digital ulcers in the soles of her feet she was successfully treated with bosentan. The report of two new digital ulcers in her hands 9 months later alongside with elevated transaminase levels led to a switch to macitentan treatment. A swift and complete healing of both digital ulcers was observed after 3 months, with the restoration of normal biochemical values.
Serum from Varicose Patients Induces Senescence‐Related Dysfunction of Vascular Endothelium Generating Local and Systemic Proinflammatory Conditions
Authors: Mikuła-Pietrasik Justyna , Uruski Paweł , Aniukiewicz Krzysztof , Sosińska Patrycja , Krasiński Zbigniew , Tykarski Andrzej , Książek Krzysztof
Published: November 2016

Although the role of endothelium in varicose vein development is indisputable, the effect of the pathology on biological properties of endothelial cells remains unclear. Here we examined if the presence of varicose veins affects senescence of endothelial cells (HUVECs) and, if so, what will be the local and systemic outcome of this effect. Experiments showed that HUVECs subjected to serum from varicose patients display improved proliferation, increased expression of senescence marker, SA‐β‐Gal, and increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as compared with serum from healthy donors. Both increased SA‐β‐Gal activity and ROS release were mediated by TGF‐β1, the concentration of which in varicose serum was elevated and the activity of which in vitro was prevented using specific neutralizing antibody. Senescent HUVECs exposed to varicose serum generated increased amounts of ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1, P‐selectin, uPA, PAI‐1, and ET‐1. Direct comparison of sera from varicose and healthy donors showed that pathological serum contained increased level of ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1, P‐selectin, uPA, and ET‐1. Calendar age of healthy subjects correlated positively with serum uPA and negatively with P‐selectin. Age of varicose patients correlated positively with ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1, and ET‐1. Collectively, our findings indicate that the presence of varicose veins causes a senescence‐related dysfunction of vascular endothelium, which leads to the development of local and systemic proinflammatory environment.
Prognostic and Remaining Life Prediction of Electronic Device under Vibration Condition Based on CPSD of MPI
Authors: Chen Ying , Tang Ning , Yuan Zenghui
Published: November 2016

Prognostic of electronic device under vibration condition can help to get information to assist in condition-based maintenance and reduce life-cycle cost. A prognostic and remaining life prediction method for electronic devices under random vibration condition is proposed. Vibration response is measured and monitored with acceleration sensor and OMA parameters, including vibration resonance frequency, especially first-order resonance frequency, and damping ratio is calculated with cross-power spectrum density (CPSD) method and modal parameter identification (MPI) algorithm. Steinberg vibration fatigue model which considers transmissibility factor is used to predict the remaining life of electronic component. Case study with a test board is carried out and remaining life is predicted. Results show that with this method the vibration response characteristic can be monitored and predicted.
Effect of Urea Concentration on the Viscosity and Thermal Stability of Aqueous NaOH/Urea Cellulose Solutions
Authors: Huber Tim , Starling Katherine , Cen Wanwen (Samantha) , Fee Conan , Dimartino Simone
Published: November 2016

Aqueous solutions of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and urea are a known and versatile solvent for cellulose. The dissolution of cellulose occurs at subambient temperatures through the formation of a cellulose-NaOH-urea “inclusion complex” (IC). NaOH and urea form a hydrate layer around the cellulose chains preventing chain agglomeration. Urea is known to stabilize the solution but its direct role is unknown. Using viscometry and quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) it could be shown that the addition of urea reduced the solutions viscosity of the tested solutions by almost 40% and also increased the gelation temperature from approximately 40°C to 90°C. Both effects could also be observed in the presence of additional cellulose powder serving as a physical cross-linker. Using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy during heating, it could be shown that a direct interaction occurs between urea and the cellulose molecules, reducing their ability to form hydrogen bonds with neighbouring chains.
A Novel Tris(2-aminoethyl)amine Based Tripodal Ligand: Synthesis and Solution Coordination Studies with Trivalent Iron and Chromium
Authors: Baral Minati , Gupta Amit , Akbar Rifat , Kanungo Bikram K.
Published: November 2016

A novel tris(2-aminoethyl)amine (TREN) based tripodal ligand TRENOL (L) has been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis and UV-VIS, IR, 1H, and 13C NMR spectroscopic methods. The coordination behaviour of the ligand with H+ and trivalent metal ions, Fe(III) and Cr(III), was investigated in aqueous medium at 0.1 M KCl at 25±1°C by potentiometric and spectrophotometric studies. Tripodal ligand showed seven protonation constants in the adopted pH range 2–11 and its electronic spectra exhibited three bands at 216, 323, and 423 nm. Ligand formed various metal complex species of the type MLH5, MLH4, MLH3, MLH, and ML with trivalent metal ions. The determined values of the formation constants (for ML species) of the ligand with Fe(III) and Cr(III) were 24.19 and 18.64, respectively. Molecular modeling studies revealed that the metal complexes formed distorted octahedral geometry. Besides, ligand showed fluorescence at 496 nm when excited at 289 nm. The fluorescence behaviour of the ligand in the presence of Fe(III) ions showed noticeable quenching in comparison to the other metal ions at physiological pH (7.4). So, as per the outcomes of the present study, TRENOL has the potential to be used as the iron detector in environmental, agricultural, and medical fields.
Bone Formation by Sheep Stem Cells in an Ectopic Mouse Model: Comparison of Adipose and Bone Marrow Derived Cells and Identification of Donor‐Derived Bone by Antibody Staining
Authors: Kjærgaard Kristian , Dreyer Chris H. , Ditzel Nicholas , Andreasen Christina M. , Chen Li , Sheikh Søren P. , Overgaard Søren , Ding Ming
Published: November 2016

Background. Scaffolds for bone tissue engineering (BTE) can be loaded with stem and progenitor cells (SPC) from different sources to improve osteogenesis. SPC can be found in bone marrow, adipose tissue, and other tissues. Little is known about osteogenic potential of adipose‐derived culture expanded, adherent cells (A‐CEAC). This study compares in vivo osteogenic capacity between A‐CEAC and bone marrow derived culture expanded, adherent cells (BM‐CEAC). Method. A‐CEAC and BM‐CEAC were isolated from five female sheep and seeded on hydroxyapatite granules prior to subcutaneous implantation in immunodeficient mice. The doses of cells in the implants were 0.5 × 106, 1.0 × 106, or 1.5 × 106 A‐CEAC and 0.5 × 106 BM‐CEAC, respectively. After eight weeks, bone volume versus total tissue volume (BV/TV) was quantified using histomorphometry. Origin of new bone was assessed using human vimentin (HVIM) antibody staining. Results. BM‐CEAC yielded significantly higher BV/TV than any A‐CEAC group, and differences between A‐CEAC groups were not statistically significant. HVIM antibody stain was successfully used to identify sheep cells in this model. Conclusion. A‐CEAC and BM‐CEAC were capable of forming bone, and BM‐CEAC yielded significantly higher BV/TV than any A‐CEAC group. In vitro treatment to enhance osteogenic capacity of A‐CEAC is suggested for further research in ovine bone tissue engineering.
Surgical Management of Multiple Valve Endocarditis Associated with Dialysis Catheter
Authors: Zea-Vera R. , Sanchez M. , Castañeda E. , Soto-Arquiñigo L.
Published: November 2016

Endocarditis associated with dialysis catheter is a disease that must be suspected in every patient with hemodialysis who develops fever. Multiple valve disease is a severe complication of endocarditis that needs to be managed in a different way. There is very limited data for treatment and every case must be considered individually. We present a patient with this complication and describe the medical treatment and surgical management. We report the case of a 15-year-old patient with acute renal failure that develops trivalvular endocarditis after the hemodialysis catheter was placed, with multiple positive blood culture forStaphylococcus aureus. Transesophageal echocardiography was done and aortic and tricuspid valvular vegetations and mitral insufficiency were reported. Patient was successfully treated by surgery on the three valves, including aortic valve replacement. There is limited data about the appropriate treatment for multiple valvular endocarditis; it is important to consider this complication in the setting of hemodialysis patients that develop endocarditis and, despite the appropriate treatment, have a torpid evolution. In countries where endovenous drug abuse is uncommon, right sided endocarditis is commonly associated with vascular catheters. Aggressive surgical management should be the treatment of choice in these kinds of patients.
Ultrasound Microbubbles Enhance the Neuroprotective Effect of Mouse Nerve Growth Factor on Intraocular Hypertension-Induced Neuroretina Damage in Rabbits
Authors: Shen Xiaoli , Huang Lina , Ma Dahui , Zhao Jun , Xie Yi , Li Qiang , Zeng Aineng , Zeng Kun , Tian Ruyin , Wang Tianfu , Chen Siping
Published: November 2016

Ultrasound microbubble combined optic protection drugs have obvious protective effect on optic nerve damage. This way of targeting drug delivery is becoming more simple, not through the whole body metabolism, avoiding drug via blood circulation when facing the decomposition and the environment in the interference and destruction process of drugs, to maximize the guarantee to reach target organs of drug concentration and to reache the maximum therapeutic effect. The technique of ultrasound microbubbles is safe, controllable, nonimmunogenic, and repeatable. It provides us with a novel idea in the administration of neuroprotective drugs.
A Case of Pulmonary-Renal Syndrome Leading to the Diagnosis of Legionnaires’ Disease
Authors: Sabani Erasmia , Sarafidis Pantelis A. , Lazaridis Antonios , Kouloukourgiotou Theodora , Stylianou Konstantinos , Pantzaki Afroditi , Papagianni Aikaterini , Efstratiadis Georgios
Published: November 2016

We report a case of a 51-year-old Caucasian man referred at our department due to acute renal failure (ARF) complicating respiratory failure during hospitalization in a regional hospital. The patient was previously started on steroids due to the suspicion of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) in the context of Goodpasture syndrome. However, clinical and laboratory findings did not support this diagnosis; instead a careful evaluation limited differential diagnosis of the renal insult to acute tubular necrosis or acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) following respiratory infection. With lung function fully improved but renal function not recovering, a renal biopsy revealed AIN, a finding leading to further diagnostic testing and finally to the diagnosis of Legionnaires’ disease as a cause of this patient’s pulmonary-renal syndrome. The management consisted of progressive tapering of oral steroids associated with full recovery of the patient’s renal function. This is a rare case of Legionnaires’ disease causing immune-mediated AIN and highlights the possibility of Legionella infection as a cause of pulmonary-renal syndrome.
Rectus Abdominis Endometrioma after Caesarean Section
Authors: Mishin Igor , Mishina Anna , Zaharia Sergiu , Zastavnitsky Gheorghe
Published: November 2016

Isolated rectus abdominis muscle endometriosis is very uncommon with less than 20 case reports being published to date since its first description in 1984 by Amato and Levitt. We report another case of isolated rectus abdominis endometriosis in a 37-year-old patient with a previous caesarian section. We also discuss the diagnostic and treatment particularities in these patients. In our case, the treatment was only surgical and currently the patient is disease-free during the 24-month follow-up.
Towards Therapeutic Delivery of Extracellular Vesicles: Strategies for In Vivo Tracking and Biodistribution Analysis
Authors: Di Rocco Giuliana , Baldari Silvia , Toietta Gabriele
Published: November 2016

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), such as microvesicles and exosomes, are membranous structures containing bioactive material released by several cells types, including mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). Increasing lines of evidences point to EVs as paracrine mediators of the beneficial effects on tissue remodeling associated with cell therapy. Administration of MSCs‐derived EVs has therefore the potential to open new and safer therapeutic avenues, alternative to cell‐based approaches, for degenerative diseases. However, an enhanced knowledge about in vivo EVs trafficking upon delivery is required before effective clinical translation. Only a few studies have focused on the biodistribution analysis of exogenously administered MSCs‐derived EVs. Nevertheless, current strategies for in vivo tracking in animal models have provided valuable insights on the biodistribution upon systemic delivery of EVs isolated from several cellular sources, indicating in liver, spleen, and lungs the preferential target organs. Different strategies for targeting EVs to specific tissues to enhance their therapeutic efficacy and reduce possible off‐target effects have been investigated. Here, in the context of a possible clinical application of MSC‐derived EVs for tissue regeneration, we review the existing strategies for in vivo tracking and targeting of EVs isolated from different cellular sources and the studies elucidating the biodistribution of exogenously administered EVs.
Impact of Orthodontic Brackets on the Intraoral Scan Data Accuracy
Authors: Park Ji-Man , Choi Shin-Ae , Myung Ji-Yun , Chun Youn-Sic , Kim Minji
Published: November 2016

This study aims to compare the impact of buccal and lingual brackets on the accuracy of dental arch data acquired by 4 different digital intraoral scanners. Two pairs of dental casts, one with buccal brackets and the other with lingual brackets, were used. Digital measurements of the 3D images were compared to the actual measurements of the dental models, which were considered standard values. The horizontal measurements included intercanine widths and intermolar widths. The Mann–WhitneyUtest was performed for comparisons. iTero® and Trios® both showed high accuracy with relatively small maximum deviation of measurements. iTero showed a significantly higher accuracy in most of the arch width measurements on the buccal bracket model than on the lingual model (P<0.05). Zfx IntraScan® and E4D Dentist® produced maximum deviations of more than 2 mm from both the buccal and the lingual bracket models. After comparing the degree of distortion of the arch on the digital scans with actual measurements of the same models, iTero and Trios proved to be excellent in terms of trueness and precision. Nevertheless, digital intraoral scanners should be used more cautiously in arches with lingual brackets than in those with buccal brackets.
Location of a Dexamethasone Implant at the Macula after Intravitreal Injection in a Silicone Oil-Filled Eye
Authors: Esenulku Cenap Mahmut , Gunay Murat
Published: November 2016

Here, we report a case with cystoid macular edema (CME) due to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) presented with a dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex) trapped at the macula in her silicone oil- (SO-) filled eye after injection. No additional complications such as intraocular pressure (IOP) rise or retinal damage were observed. The CME was resolved during the follow-up period. At the last visit, 3 months following the injection, Ozurdex implant was found to be mostly dissolved without any additional ocular complications.
Effect of Demographic Status and Lifestyle Habits on Glycaemic Levels in Apparently Healthy Subjects: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Walatara Kasuni Nisansala Wijesena , Athiththan Lohini Vijayendran , Hettiaratchi Usha Kumari , Perera Pradeep Rasika
Published: November 2016

Aim. To identify the effects of sociodemographic status, family history, and lifestyle habits on fasting blood glucose (FBG) and fasting serum insulin (FSI) levels in apparently healthy subjects.Methods. Information was gathered using an interviewer-administered questionnaire from 227 apparently healthy nondiabetic subjects residing in a suburban area in Sri Lanka. Venous blood samples were collected after an overnight fast for FBG and FSI analysis. Correlations and differences were analyzed using SPSS (ver. 17) software.Results. The majority of the subjects were females, having secondary or tertiary education, monthly income ≥Rs. 25,000 (USD 175), and a positive family history of diabetes. Among the subjects, 10.1% were identified as prediabetics and the majority had familial diabetes with monthly income ≥Rs. 25,000 (USD 175). Subjects with high income had significantly higher mean FBG. In addition FBG had a significant correlation with age. Males and subjects with less than 6 hours/day sleeping duration at night had significantly higher FBG. Subjects with less vigorous physical activity and longer sitting duration had significantly higher FSI levels.Conclusions. Increasing age, higher income, positive familial history of diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, and short sleep at night have positive impact on glycaemic status in apparently healthy subjects.
Effects of Raloxifene on the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Human Aortic Valve Interstitial Cells
Authors: Fu Zhimin , Luo Bin , Li Mingpeng , Peng Bin , Wang Zheng
Published: November 2016

We aimed to explore the effects of raloxifene (RAL) on the proliferation and apoptosis of human aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs). Different concentrations of RAL were used to act on AVICs. MTS kit is used to test the effects of different concentrations of RAL on the proliferation of AVICs. Cell cycle and apoptosis test used flow cytometry after seven-day treatment. The relative expression levels of caspase-3 and caspase-8 are tested with RT-qPCR and Western blot. The results of MTS testing revealed that the absorbance value (OD value) of the cells in the concentration groups of 10 and 100 nmol/L RAL at a wavelength of 490 nm at five, seven, and nine days significantly decreased compared with that in the control group. Meanwhile, the results of flow cytometry of the cells collected after seven days showed that the ratio of the S stage and the cell apoptosis rate of AVICs can be significantly reduced by RAL in the concentration groups of 10 and 100 nmol/L. The mRNA and protein expressions of caspase-3 and caspase-8 were significantly decreased compared with those in the control group. This study laid the foundation for further treatment of aortic valve disease by using RAL.
New Approach to Managing Onychophagia
Authors: Marouane O. , Ghorbel M. , Nahdi M. , Necibi A. , Douki N.
Published: November 2016

Onychophagia is defined as a chronic habit of biting nails, commonly observed in both children and young adults. This oral habit may lead to various medical and dental problems. To date, onychophagia is considered an unsolved problem in medicine and dentistry. In this paper we describe an exclusive nonpunitive fixed appliance utilizing a stainless steel twisted round wire bonded from canine to canine, in the mandibular arch, as a treatment of onychophagia. It was used successfully in young adult patients and maintained for a month. With 9-month follow-up the treatment has satisfied the patients’ expectations which may eventually yield promising implications of this new treatment to similar situations.
An Unusual Laryngeal Foreign Body in Adult
Authors: Ndiaye Cire , Regonne Eric Joel , Ahmed Houra , Diom Evelyne Siga , Deguenonvo Richard Edouard Alain , Mbaye Aminata , Zemene Yilkal , Ndiaye Issa Cheikh
Published: November 2016

The accidental aspiration of a foreign body is a frequent domestic accident among children but a rare occurrence in adults. The laryngeal impaction of a coin is an unusual accident; only a few cases have been reported in the literature. Diagnosis is mostly achieved by clinicoradiological examinations. The authors report an uncommon case of laryngeal impaction of a coin in a 21-year-old patient, presenting with dysphonia without dyspnea or stridor. The extraction was performed by endoscopy.
Urethral Leiomyoma: A Rare Clinical Entity
Authors: Beng Kwang Ng , Naidu Aruku , Yahaya Azyani , Pei Shan Lim
Published: November 2016

Extrauterine leiomyomas are encountered occasionally, which can pose a diagnostic dilemma and challenge to the gynaecologist. We report a rare case of urethral leiomyoma. A 31-year-old woman with history of primary subfertility presented with mass at her urethral meatus and lower urinary tract symptoms. She underwent examination under anaesthesia and excision of the urethral mass. Histopathological examination confirmed leiomyoma. Diagnosis and management of this common growth situated at a rare location were reviewed and discussed.
Clinical and Microbiological Characteristics of Visceral Leishmaniasis Outbreak in a Northern Italian Nonendemic Area: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Franceschini E. , Puzzolante C. , Menozzi M. , Rossi L. , Bedini A. , Orlando G. , Gennari W. , Meacci M. , Rugna G. , Carra E. , Codeluppi M. , Mussini C.
Published: November 2016

Background. Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused byLeishmania infantumis endemic in the Mediterranean area. In the last decades a northward spread of the parasite has been observed in Italy. This paper describes a VL outbreak in Modena province (Emilia-Romagna, Northern Italy) between 2012 and 2015.Methods. Retrospective, observational study to evaluate epidemiological, microbiological characteristics, and clinical management of VL in patients referring to Policlinico Modena Hospital.Results. Sixteen cases of VL occurred in the study period. An immunosuppressive condition was present in 81.3%. Clinical presentation included anemia, fever, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and hepatosplenomegaly. Serology was positive in 73.3% of cases, peripheral blood PCR in 92.3%, and bone marrow blood PCR in 100%. Culture was positive in 3/6 cases (50%) and all the isolates were identified asL. infantumby ITS1/ITS2 sequencing. The median time between symptom onset and diagnosis was 22 days (range 6–131 days). All patients were treated with liposomal amphotericin b. 18.8% had a VL recurrence and were treated with miltefosine. Attributable mortality was 6.3%.Conclusions. VL due toL. infantumcould determine periodical outbreaks, as the one described; thus it is important to include VL in the differential diagnosis of fever of unknown origin, even in low-endemic areas.
Bronchial Foreign Body Alerting of a Bronchial Tumor: The Need of a Follow-Up Radiography
Authors: El-Rifai Nahida , Shahine Samar , Sidani Hassan , Sabeh Aion Ali , Deschildre Antoine , Copin Marie-Christine
Published: November 2016

Lung tumors are extremely rare in the pediatric population, comprising only 0.2% of all malignancies in children. Among them, mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is even rarer with a reported frequency of 0.1% to 0.2%. MEC is defined by the World Health Organization as a tumor characterized by a combination of mucus-secreting, squamous, and intermediate cell types. We describe the case of a 4-year-old girl who presented with a history of intermittent fever and nonproductive cough of 1-month duration after foreign body aspiration. The chest X-ray showed complete collapse of the left lung. After removal of the foreign body, the lung expanded well after. However, the control chest X-ray done after 5 days showed again complete collapse of the left lung. The biopsy specimen taken during bronchoscopy confirmed the diagnosis of low-grade MEC. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) confirmed the presence of MAML2 rearrangement. Complete surgical resection with preservation of lung parenchyma was performed. No adjuvant therapy was needed. Repeat bronchoscopy was performed 2 months after surgery and showed no recurrence of the tumor. In conclusion, a remote chest X-ray after removal of a foreign body is necessary to avoid missing a rare serious underlying disease such as MEC. According to the size and the location of the tumor, complete surgical removal is sufficient without additional treatment in case of low-grade tumor. The presence of MAML2 rearrangement confers a favorable outcome and may have long-term implications for the clinical management.
The Pathophysiological Impact of HLA Class Ia and HLA-G Expression and Regulatory T Cells in Malignant Melanoma: A Review
Authors: Johansen Lasse Lindholm , Lock-Andersen Jørgen , Hviid Thomas Vauvert F.
Published: November 2016

Malignant melanoma, a very common type of cancer, is a rapidly growing cancer of the skin with an increase in incidence among the Caucasian population. The disease is seen through all age groups and is very common in the younger age groups. Several studies have examined the risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms of malignant melanoma, which have enlightened our understanding of the development of the disease, but we have still to fully understand the complex immunological interactions. The examination of the interaction between the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) system and prognostic outcome has shown interesting results, and a correlation between the down- or upregulation of these antigens and prognosis has been seen through many different types of cancer. In malignant melanoma, HLA class Ia has been seen to influence the effects of pharmaceutical drug treatment as well as the overall prognosis, and the HLA class Ib and regulatory T cells have been correlated with tumor progression. Although there is still no standardized immunological treatment worldwide, the interaction between the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) system and tumor progression seems to be a promising focus in the way of optimizing the treatment of malignant melanoma.
Traditional Chinese Mind and Body Exercises for Promoting Balance Ability of Old Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Chen Shihui , Zhang Yanjie , Wang Yong Tai , Liu Xiao Lei
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study was to provide a quantitative evaluation of the effectiveness of traditional Chinese mind and body exercises in promoting balance ability for old adults. The eligible studies were extensively searched from electronic databases (Medline, CINAHL, SportDicus, and Web of Science) until 10 May 2016. Reference lists of relevant publications were screened for future hits. The trials used randomized controlled approaches to compare the effects of traditional Chinese mind and body exercise (TCMBE) on balance ability of old adults that were included. The synthesized results of Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), and static balance with 95% confidence intervals were counted under a random‐effects model. Ten studies were selected based on the inclusion criteria, and a total of 1,798 participants were involved in this review. The results of the meta‐analysis showed that TCMBE had no significant improvement on BBS and TUG, but the BBS and TUG could be obviously improved by prolonging the intervention time. In addition, the results showed that TCMBE could significantly improve the static balance compared to control group. In conclusion, old adults who practiced TCMBE with the time not less than 150 minutes per week for more than 15 weeks could promote the balance ability.
Integrative Characterization of Toxic Response of Zebra Fish(Danio rerio)to Deltamethrin Based on AChE Activity and Behavior Strength
Authors: Ren Qing , Zhang Tingting , Li Shangge , Ren Zongming , Yang Meiyi , Pan Hongwei , Xu Shiguo , Qi Li , Chon Tae-Soo
Published: November 2016

In order to characterize the toxic response of zebra fish (Danio rerio) to Deltamethrin (DM), behavior strength (BS) and muscle AChE activity of zebra fish were investigated. The results showed that the average values of both BS and AChE activity showed a similarly decreased tendency as DM concentration increased, which confirmed the dose-effect relationship, and high and low levels of AChE and BS partly matched low and high levels of exposure concentrations in self-organizing map. These indicated that AChE and BS had slight different aspects of toxicity although overall trend was similar. Behavior activity suggested a possibility of reviving circadian rhythm in test organisms after exposure to the chemical in lower concentration (0.1 TU). This type of rhythm disappeared in higher concentrations (1.0 TU and 2.0 TU). Time series trend analysis of BS and AChE showed an evident time delayed effect of AChE, and a 2 h AChE inhibition delay with higher correlation coefficients (r) in different treatments was observed. It was confirmed that muscle AChE inhibition of zebra fish is a factor for swimming behavior change, though there was a 2 h delay, and other factors should be investigated to illustrate the detailed behavior response mechanism.
Perinatal Outcome in Assisted Reproductive Pregnancies: Comparative Analysis of Reduced versus Unreduced Gestation
Authors: Bhandari Shilpa , Agrawal Pallavi , Ganguly Ishita , Singh Aparna , Gupta Nitika
Published: November 2016

Objectives. This study aims to evaluate perinatal outcomes such as gestational age at delivery and live birth rate in singleton and twin gestation with or without fetal reduction. Method. A retrospective analysis was done on patients which were divided into reduced and unreduced groups on the basis of order of reduction of one or more fetuses between 6 and 13 weeks of gestation. Patients records were studied to note gestational age at delivery/abortion, birth weight, and neonatal outcome. Result. The cohort included a total of 292 patients: 102 singletons and 190 twins. 52 pregnancies were reduced in singleton cohort and 68 were reduced in twin cohort. No statistical difference was observed in live birth rate, gestational age at delivery, and birth weight and significant higher incidence of IUGR was observed in reduced and unreduced twin gestation. In singleton pregnancies however preterm delivery rate increased with fetal reduction. Conclusion. Although reduction does not reduce the live birth rate, it does reduce gestation age of delivery and birth weight of newborn. This effect is more apparent when multiple gestation is reduced to singleton.
Physiological Study on Association between Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase Gene Polymorphisms and Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Juan , Lin Ya-Jun , Chen Wei , Wang Ya-Hui , Qiu Li-Qiang , Cai Can-Xin , Xiong Qun , Chen Fei , Chen Li-Hui , Zhou Qiong , Li Jiang-Hua
Published: November 2016

Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) catalyzes the methylation of nicotinamide. Our previous works indicate that NNMT is involved in the body mass index and energy metabolism, and recently the association between a SNP (rs694539) ofNNMTand a variety of cardiovascular diseases was reported. At present, more than 200NNMTsingle nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified in the databases of the human genome projects; however, the association between rs694539 variation and hyperlipidemia has not been reported yet, and whether there are any SNPs inNNMTsignificantly associated with hyperlipidemia is still unclear. In this paper, we selected 19 SNPs inNNMTas the tagSNPs using Haploview software (Haploview 4.2) first and then performed a case-control study to observe the association between these tagSNPs and hyperlipidemia and finally applied physiological approaches to explore the possible mechanisms through which theNNMTpolymorphism induces hyperlipidemia. The results show that a SNP (rs1941404) inNNMTis significantly associated with hyperlipidemia, and the influence of rs1941404 variation on the resting energy expenditure may be the possible mechanism for rs1941404 variation to induce hyperlipidemia.
Thrombosis RelatedABO,F5,MTHFR,andFGGGene Polymorphisms in Morbidly Obese Patients
Authors: Kupcinskiene Kristina , Murnikovaite Martyna , Varkalaite Greta , Juzenas Simonas , Trepenaitis Darius , Petereit Ruta , Maleckas Almantas , Kupcinskas Juozas , Macas Andrius
Published: November 2016

Objective. Obesity is a well-known risk factor for thrombotic complications. The aim of the present study was to determine the frequency of thrombosis relatedABO,F5,MTHFR,andFGGgene polymorphisms in morbidly obese patients and compare them with the group of nonobese individuals.Methods. Gene polymorphisms were analyzed in 320 morbidly obese patients (BMI > 40 kg/m2) and 303 control individuals (BMI < 30 kg/m2) of European descent.ABOC>T (rs505922),F5C>G (rs6427196),MTHFRC>T (rs1801133), andFGGC>T (rs6536024) SNPs were genotyped by RT-PCR.Results. We observed a tendency forMTHFRrs1801133 TT genotype to be linked with morbid obesity when compared to CC genotype; however, the difference did not reach the significantPvalue (OR 1.84, 95% CI 0.83–4.05,P=0.129). Overall, the genotypes and alleles of rs505922, rs6427196, rs1801133, and rs6536024 SNPs had similar distribution between morbidly obese and nonobese control individuals. Distribution of height and weight means among individuals carrying different rs505922, rs6427196, rs1801133, and rs6536024 genotypes did not differ significantly.Conclusions. Gene polymorphismsABOC>T (rs505922),F5C>G (rs6427196),MTHFRC>T (rs1801133), andFGGC>T (rs6536024) were not associated with height, weight, or morbid obesity among European subjects.
Natural Tooth Pontic: An Instant Esthetic Option for Periodontally Compromised Teeth—A Case Series
Authors: Raj Rishi , Mehrotra Kriti , Narayan Ipshita , Gowda Triveni Mavinakote , Mehta D. S.
Published: November 2016

Sudden tooth loss in the esthetic zone of the maxillary or mandibular anterior region can be due to trauma, periodontal disease, or endodontic failure. The treatment options for replacing the missing tooth can vary between removable prosthesis, tooth-supported prosthesis, and implant-supported prosthesis. Irrespective of the final treatment, the first line of management would be to provisionally restore the patient’s esthetic appearance at the earliest, while functionally stabilizing the compromised arch. Using the patient’s own natural tooth as a pontic offers the benefits of being the right size, shape, and color and provides exact repositioning in its original intraoral three-dimensional position. Additionally, using the patient’s platelet concentrate (platelet rich fibrin) facilitates early wound healing and preservation of alveolar ridge shape following tooth extraction. The abutment teeth can also be preserved with minimal or no preparation, thus keeping the technique reversible, and can be completed at the chair side thereby avoiding laboratory costs. This helps the patient better tolerate the effect of tooth loss psychologically. The article describes a successful, immediate, and viable technique for rehabilitation of three different patients requiring replacement of a single periodontally compromised tooth in an esthetic region.
Ischemic Monomeric Neuropathy in a Woman with Sickle Cell Anaemia
Authors: Agapidou Alexandra , Aiken Laura , Linpower Lisa , Tsitsikas Dimitris A.
Published: November 2016

Sickle cell disease is an inherited haemoglobinopathy that can affect multiple organs and systems. The most common neurological complication in sickle cell disease is stroke and silent cerebral infarcts. Peripheral nervous system involvement has been described but is exceedingly rare. Herein, we describe the case of a young woman who presented with acute flaccid paralysis and sensory loss of the left lower extremity in the context of a painful vasoocclusive crisis which resolved rapidly after receiving an emergency automated red cell exchange transfusion.
Serum MicroRNA Profiling and Bioinformatics of Patients with Spleen‐Deficiency Syndrome
Authors: Yang Ze-Min , Chen Long-Hui , Hong Min , Chen Ying-Yu , Yang Xiao-Rong , Tang Si-Meng , Yuan Qian-Fa , He Zhen-Yu , Chen Wei-Wen
Published: November 2016

To investigate serum microRNA (miRNA) profile and bioinformatics of patients with spleen‐deficiency syndrome (SDS) and explore pathogenesis of SDS patients from miRNA levels, 10 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), within which 5 patients were with SDS and the remaining were with blood stasis syndrome (BSS), and 5 healthy volunteers were recruited. Serum miRNA profiles of SDS patients were identified by quantitative PCR array. Target prediction and functional annotation for miRNAs were performed by miRSystem database. The present study identified 11 candidate serum miRNAs for SDS patients, and their targets were significantly enriched in 18 KEGG pathways and 7 GO molecular functions. Those enriched KEGG pathways included (1) metabolisms of carbohydrate, protein, amino acid, and fatty acid, (2) signaling pathways of insulin, ErbB, chemokine, calcium, and type II diabetes mellitus, (3) invasions of bacterium, Escherichia coli, and Shigella (Shigellosis), and (4) endocytosis and phagocytosis. Those enriched GO molecular functions were mainly involved in transcription regulation and regulation of metabolism. Our findings might elucidate the pathogenesis of SDS patients with disorders of substance metabolism and hypoimmunity from miRNA levels, as well as providing some miRNA biomarkers for clinical syndrome differentiation of SDS.
When Women with Cystic Fibrosis Become Mothers: Psychosocial Impact and Adjustments
Authors: Cammidge Sophie L. , Duff Alistair J. A. , Latchford Gary J. , Etherington Christine
Published: November 2016

Advances in the treatment and life expectancy of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients mean that motherhood is now a realistic option for many women with CF. This qualitative study explored the psychosocial impact and adjustments made when women with CF become mothers. Women with CF (n=11) were recruited via an online forum and participated in semistructured telephone interviews about their experiences of becoming a mother. Transcriptions were analysed using Grounded Theory. Analysis revealed three core categories: (i) “Living with CF”: how becoming a mother impacted on health and treatment adherence, requiring a change in support from the CF team, (ii) “Becoming a Mother”: balancing issues common to new mothers with their CF, and (iii) “Pooling Personal Resources”: coping strategies in managing the dual demands of child and CF care. Participants experienced a variety of complex psychosocial processes. Most participants acknowledged an initial negative impact on CF care; however over time they reported successful adaptation to managing dual commitments and that adherence and motivation to stay well had improved. This study highlights the need for preconceptual psychosocial counselling andpostpartumadjustment to CF care.
First-Order Statistical Characteristics of Macrodiversity System with Three Microdiversity MRC Receivers in the Presence of k-µ Short-Term Fading and Gamma Long-Term Fading
Authors: Jaksic Branimir , Stefanovic Mihajlo , Aleksic Danijela , Radenkovic Dragan , Minic Sinisa
Published: November 2016

Macrodiversity system with macrodiversity SC receiver and three microdiversity MRC (maximum ratio combining) receivers is considered. Independent k-μ short-term fading and correlated Gamma long-term fading are present at the inputs of microdiversity MRC receivers. For this model, the probability density function and the cumulative density function of microdiversity MRC receivers and macrodiversity SC receiver output signal envelopes are calculated. Influences of Gamma shadowing severity, k-μ multipath fading severity, Rician factor and correlation coefficient at probability density function, and cumulative density function of macrodiversity SC receiver output signal envelopes are graphically presented.
Transcriptional Selectivity of Epigenetic Therapy in Cancer
Authors: Sato Takahiro , Cesaroni Matteo , Chung Woonbok , Panjarian Shoghag , Tran Anthony , Madzo Jozef , Okamoto Yasuyuki , Zhang Hanghang , Chen Xiaowei , Jelinek Jaroslav , Issa Jean-Pierre J.
Published: November 2016

A central challenge in the development of epigenetic cancer therapy is the ability to direct selectivity in modulating gene expression for disease-selective efficacy. To address this issue, we characterized by RNA-seq, DNA methylation, and ChIP-seq analyses the epigenetic response of a set of colon, breast, and leukemia cancer cell lines to small-molecule inhibitors against DNA methyltransferases (DAC), histone deacetylases (Depsi), histone demethylases (KDM1A inhibitor S2101), and histone methylases (EHMT2 inhibitor UNC0638 and EZH2 inhibitor GSK343). We also characterized the effects of DAC as combined with the other compounds. Averaged over the cancer cell models used, we found that DAC affected 8.6% of the transcriptome and that 95.4% of the genes affected were upregulated. DAC preferentially regulated genes that were silenced in cancer and that were methylated at their promoters. In contrast, Depsi affected the expression of 30.4% of the transcriptome but showed little selectivity for gene upregulation or silenced genes. S2101, UNC0638, and GSK343 affected only 2% of the transcriptome, with UNC0638 and GSK343 preferentially targeting genes marked with H3K9me2 or H3K27me3, respectively. When combined with histone methylase inhibitors, the extent of gene upregulation by DAC was extended while still maintaining selectivity for DNA-methylated genes and silenced genes. However, the genes upregulated by combination treatment exhibited limited overlap, indicating the possibility of targeting distinct sets of genes based on different epigenetic therapy combinations. Overall, our results demonstrated that DNA methyltransferase inhibitors preferentially target cancer-relevant genes and can be combined with inhibitors targeting histone methylation for synergistic effects while still maintaining selectivity. Cancer Res; 77(2); 470–81. ©2016 AACR.